9 Best Espresso Machines of 2026

This all-in-one powerhouse redefines what entry-level means for home espresso lovers. With a 20-bar high-pressure pump and NTC intelligent temperature control, it extracts espresso with café-level richness and a velvety crema that rivals machines twice its price. The integrated grinder is a game-changer—delivering freshly ground beans on demand with adjustable coarseness—eliminating the need for a separate grinder while preserving maximum aroma. For beginners craving barista-grade results without complexity, this machine nails the essentials: consistent extraction, rich flavor, and one-touch convenience.

In real-world testing, the 58mm stainless steel portafilter proved reliable across single and double shots, delivering even saturation and solid crema formation when using freshly tamped grounds. The pre-infusion technology gently wets the coffee puck before full pressure kicks in, reducing bitterness and enhancing flavor depth—especially with medium-dark roasts. The steam wand produces respectable microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, though it demands some practice to avoid overheating milk. While the compact design fits neatly on small countertops, the removable 34oz water tank means frequent refills during morning rush hours. It heats up in about 60 seconds, which is average, but not quite as fast as thermojet-powered rivals.

Compared to the Breville Bambino, this model offers more features out of the box—including a built-in grinder—at a fraction of the cost. However, it lacks PID precision and automatic milk texturing, making it less ideal for purists seeking third-wave consistency. Still, for aspiring home baristas who want an all-in-one solution without overspending, this machine delivers outstanding value. It outperforms most sub-$200 machines by combining fresh grinding, smart pre-infusion, and solid steam power in one intuitive package—making it a clear winner over similarly priced options like the XIXUBX or SHARDOR models.

The Breville Bambino punches far above its weight with barista-grade performance packed into a sleek, compact chassis—perfect for tiny kitchens or minimalist countertops. Its ThermoJet heating system rockets to optimal brewing temperature in just 3 seconds, eliminating the long warm-up times that plague most espresso machines. Paired with digital PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion, it extracts balanced, aromatic shots with remarkable consistency, pulling rich, golden crema even from finicky light roasts. The 54mm 19g portafilter maximizes coffee contact, unlocking deeper flavor notes than smaller baskets.

During daily use, the Bambino proved exceptionally quick and efficient—ideal for rushed mornings. The automatic steam wand is a standout: set your desired milk texture and temperature, and it delivers silky microfoam hands-free, making latte art accessible even to novices. It steams cold milk in under 30 seconds, far faster than manual wands on budget models. However, the small bean hopper (holds only about 1/4 lb) requires frequent refilling, and the 67oz water tank needs topping off after 2–3 shots. While compactness is a strength, it also means fewer built-in conveniences—like no integrated grinder—so you’ll need a separate burr grinder for fresh beans.

Against the De’Longhi Stilosa, the Bambino offers vastly superior temperature stability and automation, though it costs more than double. It’s not as feature-rich as the Barista Express or Touch, but it strikes a sweet spot between speed, precision, and size. For those who prioritize fast heat-up, consistent extraction, and effortless milk texturing in a small footprint, the Bambino is unmatched. It delivers Breville’s signature quality in a streamlined form—outperforming larger, pricier machines in speed and ease of use.

The Breville Barista Touch is the pinnacle of home espresso automation, blending third-wave precision with touchscreen simplicity to make professional coffee accessible to everyone. Its 4-key formula—grind, dose, tamp, and extract—is flawlessly executed through a color touchscreen interface that guides users step-by-step, turning novices into confident baristas in minutes. The integrated conical burr grinder features dose control, delivering the perfect amount of coffee with zero waste, while PID-controlled water temperature ensures each shot extracts at the ideal 200°F for balanced flavor. With low-pressure pre-infusion, even difficult beans bloom evenly, producing complex, layered espresso with syrupy body and vibrant acidity.

In real-world testing, the auto steam wand was transformative—adjusting milk texture and temperature with a tap, then automatically shutting off when ready. It consistently produced barista-quality microfoam, enabling latte art without the learning curve. The ThermoJet heater reaches temperature in 3 seconds, and the 67oz water tank supports extended brewing sessions. Cleaning is streamlined with programmable descaling and automatic purge cycles. However, the touchscreen, while intuitive, can feel overly prescriptive for experienced users who prefer manual control over grind timing or steam duration.

Compared to the Barista Express, the Touch automates milk steaming and dose control, trading hands-on involvement for convenience. It’s significantly more advanced than the Ninja Luxe, offering superior espresso extraction and finer tuning. For serious coffee lovers who want maximum automation without sacrificing quality, the Barista Touch is unmatched. It justifies its premium status with precision engineering, intuitive design, and consistent café-quality results—outclassing all others in ease of use and refinement.

The Breville Barista Express is the gold standard for hands-on espresso craftsmanship, offering full control over every stage of brewing—perfect for enthusiasts who want to master the art of espresso. It features dose control grinding with an integrated conical burr grinder, allowing you to adjust grind size and volume precisely for any roast. Combined with PID temperature stability and low-pressure pre-infusion, it produces rich, nuanced shots with thick crema and exceptional clarity. The 54mm portafilter and dual-wall baskets help beginners dial in consistency, while pros appreciate the manual override for fine-tuning extraction.

In daily use, the manual steam wand delivers powerful, dry steam—ideal for crafting velvety microfoam and practicing latte art. It heats up in under 30 seconds thanks to the ThermoJet system, and the 67oz water tank supports multiple drinks. The built-in tamper and dose trimming tool streamline workflow, though the grind cradle occasionally spills grounds during transfer. Unlike fully automatic models, it requires active involvement—grinding, tamping, timing shots—which is a pro for purists but a con for those seeking convenience. It doesn’t steam milk automatically like the Bambino or Touch, demanding skill and attention.

Against the Barista Touch, the Express trades automation for greater engagement and lower cost, making it ideal for learners and hobbyists who want to understand espresso mechanics. Compared to the Ninja Luxe, it offers superior espresso extraction and steam power, though it lacks cold brew or drip functions. For value-driven buyers who want Breville’s pro-grade performance with room to grow, the Barista Express is unbeatable. It delivers exceptional shot quality and customization at a price that undercuts the Touch by hundreds.

Don’t let the ultra-affordable price fool you—the XIXUBX 20 Bar Espresso Machine delivers real espresso performance for under $100, making it a steal for beginners or occasional drinkers. Its 20-bar pump generates enough pressure to extract crema-rich shots with surprising depth, especially when using finely ground, fresh beans. The inclusion of PID temperature control is rare at this price, ensuring consistent brews without scalding or under-extraction. The steam wand is surprisingly capable, producing creamy microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos—though it requires careful technique to avoid burning milk.

In testing, the machine heats up in about 60 seconds, and the one-knob control system is simple to navigate once you learn the sequence. The compact footprint makes it perfect for dorms, offices, or small kitchens, and the quiet operation won’t disturb early mornings. However, the plastic housing feels less durable than stainless steel rivals, and the lack of a pressure gauge means you’re guessing at extraction quality. It also lacks automatic shut-off during overheating—users must manually cool it down if lights flash, which can be confusing for newbies.

Compared to the De’Longhi Stilosa, it offers higher pressure (20 vs 15 bar) and PID control, outperforming a more expensive machine in temperature stability. It’s less refined than the SHARDOR or CASABREWS models but matches them in core performance. For budget-conscious buyers who want real espresso capability without overspending, the XIXUBX is a hidden gem. It delivers far more than its price suggests, outperforming many $150+ machines in extraction consistency and steam power.

The De’Longhi Stilosa is a no-frills, manual-focused machine built for purists who want complete control over their espresso—without automation, gadgets, or distractions. Its 15-bar pump may fall short of the 20-bar standard, but it still delivers rich, concentrated shots with a satisfying layer of crema when paired with finely tamped grounds. The stainless steel boiler ensures durability and steady heat retention, while the manual steam wand gives you full command over milk texturing—perfect for honing latte art skills. With two filter baskets (single/double) and an ergonomic portafilter, it’s easy to experiment with dose and extraction.

In real-world use, the Stilosa requires patience: it takes 3–4 minutes to heat up, significantly slower than thermojet models. The manual process—from tamping to pulling shots—demands practice, but it’s ideal for those learning espresso fundamentals. The two-level cup rack accommodates various cup sizes, and the compact design saves counter space. However, the lack of temperature control means water can fluctuate, leading to inconsistent shots if not monitored. The steam wand is powerful but prone to spitting if not purged properly.

Against the XIXUBX, the Stilosa offers more durable construction and better steam performance, but lacks PID control and higher pressure. It’s less convenient than the CASABREWS or SHARDOR models but excels in manual control and build quality. For students of espresso who want to learn the craft from scratch, the Stilosa is an excellent training tool. It delivers authentic, hands-on brewing at a mid-range price—outshining automated rivals in control and simplicity.

The SHARDOR 20 Bar Espresso Machine stands out with a sleek touchscreen interface that brings modern sophistication to budget espresso making. Its 20-bar pressure pump and 1350W boiler deliver strong extraction and creamy crema, rivaling machines hundreds of dollars more. The NTC temperature control offers three heat settings, letting you fine-tune extraction for light or dark roasts—unusual at this price point. The one-touch touchscreen manages brewing, steaming, descaling, and auto shutoff, making it one of the most user-friendly entry-level machines available.

In testing, the steam wand produced thick, glossy foam ideal for cappuccinos, though it required close attention to avoid overheating. The 45oz removable water tank allows multiple brews before refilling, and the compact stainless steel body resists fingerprints and fits easily on small counters. The one-touch descaling reminder is a thoughtful touch, helping maintain longevity. However, the touchscreen, while stylish, can be overly sensitive, and the manual mode lacks granularity—limiting customization for advanced users. Like many budget models, it requires manual cooling if overheating occurs.

Compared to the CASABREWS CM5418, the SHARDOR offers better temperature control and a more advanced interface, while both share similar build and performance. It’s less automated than the Breville Bambino but more intuitive than the XIXUBX. For tech-savvy beginners who value ease of use and modern design, the SHARDOR is a top pick. It delivers premium features like touchscreen control and adjustable heat at a price that undercuts most competitors—making it a standout in the sub-$120 category.

The CASABREWS CM5418 is the best bang-for-buck machine under $150, combining pro-level features with solid build quality and consistent performance. Its 20-bar Italian pump and 1350W boiler extract aromatic, crema-rich espresso with impressive clarity, especially when using freshly tamped grounds. The built-in pressure gauge is a rare and valuable addition—letting you monitor extraction in real time and adjust grind or tamp accordingly. The stainless steel construction feels durable and resists heat buildup, while the 34oz removable water tank is easy to refill and clean.

In real-world use, the steam wand delivers powerful, dry steam, enabling thick microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos—though it requires practice to master. The machine heats up in about 60 seconds, and the dual filter baskets support single or double shots with ease. However, after steaming milk, the machine must cool down before brewing, or it triggers overheating protection—a quirk that interrupts workflow. The included tamper with spoon is convenient, but the drip tray fills quickly during extended use.

Compared to the SHARDOR, the CASABREWS offers better build quality and a pressure gauge, though it lacks touchscreen controls. It outperforms the De’Longhi Stilosa in pressure and steam power, while costing less. For budget-focused buyers who want professional features without compromise, the CM5418 is a top contender. It delivers consistent extraction, durable build, and real-time feedback—outperforming rivals in both functionality and value.

The Ninja Luxe Café ES601 is the ultimate multi-tasker, redefining versatility with three brewing methods in one sleek machine: espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew—plus a built-in grinder and frother. Its barista assist technology guides you through grind size, dosing, and extraction with weight-based precision, eliminating guesswork and ensuring balanced, flavorful drinks every time. The conical burr grinder offers 25 settings, adapting perfectly to different beans and brew styles, while the assisted tamper delivers evenly compacted pucks for consistent extraction.

In testing, the dual froth system stood out—producing hot or cold microfoam with four preset programs (steamed milk, thin/thick froth, cold foam), making it the most user-friendly milk system on the market. The quad-shot espresso mode delivers bold, intense flavor, while cold-pressed espresso extracts smooth, low-acid shots ideal for cocktails. It handles drip coffee with ease—offering rich, over-ice, or classic styles—and cold brew in under 10 minutes. However, espresso quality, while good, doesn’t match Breville’s precision, and the portafilter design feels less robust than dedicated machines.

Compared to the Breville Barista Touch, the Ninja offers more brewing options but less espresso refinement. It’s ideal for households with diverse coffee tastes—someone who wants espresso, cold brew, and drip without multiple machines. For families or offices seeking maximum functionality in one unit, the Ninja Luxe is unmatched. It delivers unparalleled versatility and smart features, outshining single-purpose rivals in convenience and range—even if it doesn’t beat them in espresso-only performance.