The best espresso machine under $200 can be found on our list. Whether you’re a coffee novice or a coffee snob, every kitchen should have one. It’s a convenient appliance to make your own espresso or to make it for guests when you’re entertaining at home.
Espresso Machine
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Best Espresso Maker Comparison Table
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Reviews: Top Espresso Machines Under $200
We researched the best affordable espresso machines based on the following criteria: versatility, features, and ease of use. These machines are well-made, practical and—the best part—affordable.
Espresso machines aren’t one-model-fits-all. Depending on your needs, one espresso machine may appeal to you more than others.
We know espresso lovers are diverse. So the best home espresso machine had to be carefully selected for the discriminating coffee aficionados in our audience.
Whether you prefer simple, one-button machines or products with more bells and whistles, there’s an espresso maker for everyone on our list.
1. Best Pick-De'Longhi Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine
You no longer have to go to a coffee shop to get the perfect shot of espresso. The De’Longhi Nespresso Inissia is our best pick for its ability to brew barista-worthy espresso right from home. It also makes single-serving cups of coffee as well.
This powerful nespresso machine is compact but mighty. It’s designed to take up very little counter space at just 4.6 x 12.6 x 9.1 inches, but that doesn’t limit the powerful features of this machine.
This model is speedy, meaning it only takes 25 seconds for the water tank to reach the ideal brewing temperature. It also features two serving sizes: 1.35 ounces of espresso or 5 ounces of coffee.
What sets this espresso machine apart is its power to size ratio. You wouldn’t expect this compact, ergonomically designed machine to pack the punch it does in every shot of espresso.
Key Details
This machine is so powerful thanks to the high-pressure pump feature. Standard espresso machines deliver 9 bars of pressure, but the De’Longhi Nespresso is capable of delivering up to 19 bars of pressure.
This extra power gives the espresso a layer of crema on top of the espresso, creating an authentic barista experience every time. Despite the advanced extraction technology, using this powerful machine only requires one touch of a button.
This product also sports an energy efficient feature. After 9 minutes of inactivity, the smart energy saving mode automatically turns off the machine.
This feature may help cut down your electricity bill, and it’s more eco-friendly. The auto shutoff function could also prevent electrical hazards.
While the De’Longhi Nespresso Inissia is our top pick due to its powerful features, there is one main drawback. This model lacks an empty water tank detection feature, so users must frequently check if the 24-ounce tank needs to be refilled. Lastly, it comes with a two year manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- Versatile espresso machine that can brew single-serve espresso shots and cups of coffee.
- One click of a button high-pressure pump feature.
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- Water tank doesn’t notify users when nearing empty.
- 24-ounce water tank capacity requires frequent refilling.
- No filter is included.
2. Breville Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine
The Breville Nespresso Vertuo is our Best Value pick because of its versatility and affordability. With 5 different cup sizes, it’s a great fit for households with multiple coffee lovers.
While this is a great machine for families, it does take up a lot of counter space. The dimensions come in at 11.94 x 8.31 x 11.94 inches, and it weighs nearly 10 pounds. This machine is heavier than others and may require extra storage space.
It’s also a great choice for families because of the 40-ounce water tank. Each tank contains enough water to make 13 cups of coffee or 20 shots of espresso. The water tank is also removable, so refills are quick and easy.
Key Details
If you’re looking for an espresso machine that makes both espresso and coffee, then this may be a great fit for you. We love that the Breville Nespresso Vertuo has 5 different single-serve sizes. There are two sizes for espresso and three sizes for coffee. If you’re busy in the morning, you’ll love that this product heats up in only 15 seconds.
This machine is also high-tech. One feature we love is the centrifugal extraction technology, which spins the Nespresso capsule at 7,000 rotations per minute.
Blending the ground coffee with water at a high-speed results in the perfect crema. You’ll enjoy the right amount of foam in every serving of espresso or coffee. It comes with a one year warranty.
Pros
- 5 different serving sizes offer versatility.
- 15 second heat-up time.
- 40-ounce, removable water tank.
Cons
- 1-year warranty only.
- Large dimensions take up a lot of counter space.
- 10-pound machine is heavy.
3. De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine
The De’Longhi is our pick for the best budget espresso machine. It is well under $200, yet it has many of the same features as the premium machines. For instance, it has a powerful milk frother for making lattes and cappuccinos and the sleek, contemporary design will look fantastic on your kitchen counter.
The pump is also capable of 15 bars of pressure—any coffee lover will know how vital this feature is for a quality crema to top off any espresso shot. It meets all the major requirements of a quality espresso maker but at a fraction of the price.
Key Details
It measures 11.22 x 8 x 8 inches, so it fits nicely in tight spaces. So if you’re looking for a compact option, the De’Longhi is a good choice.
Despite the smaller size, we like that it still meets all our essential requirements: fast heating time, multiple cup sizes, and easy instructions.
It has a 34 ounce water tank that you won’t have to refill often and it also makes various size cups of espresso. This is an espresso machine definitely worth considering if you want lots of power at a decent price.
Pros
- Compact design takes up minimal space.
- High pressure pump is capable of 15 bars, resulting in the perfect crema.
- Easy to make various size coffees.
- 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- The 27-ounce water tank may require frequent refills.
- No sample espresso pods included like most machines.
- Espresso does not brew as hot as other models.
4. De’Longhi Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine
The De’Longhi Pixie has a few more bells and whistles than your average espresso machine. It has a sleek, avant-garde design for more image-conscious shoppers.
This machine displays beautifully in a modern kitchen. At 12.8 x 4.4 x 9.3 inches, it doesn’t take up a lot of counter space.
We like that the Pixie has all the standard features and then some. In just 25 seconds, this machine reaches ideal brewing temperatures and is ready for use. Simply choose from the two pre-programmed size options: 2.7 ounces or 5 ounces.
On top of that, we like that it’s environmentally friendly with an A+++ or A-40% energy consumption class rating system. This means it’s 40% more efficient than an A-rated product.
Key Details
De’Longhi calls this its smart espresso machine model. One feature that really sets this model apart from the others is the empty water tank detection. It is a red backlight that signals when the water tank is running low.
Another feature we like is the folding drip tray. Standard espresso machines come with a drip tray, but this one is adjustable depending on the size of your glass.
Unlike other models, the Pixie is also easy to clean. The used Nespresso capsules are ejected into an internal reservoir for easy cleanup.
We would like to see this model come with a tank larger than 24 ounces, but that’s our only critique. Lastly, it comes with a two year manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- 40% more energy efficient than other models.
- Empty water tank detection lets you know when the tank needs to be refilled.
- A welcome kit with nespresso sample pods is included.
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- Smaller 24-ounce water tank doesn’t offer many servings per tank.
- The smallest espresso size is 2.7 ounces, which is double the standard size.
- Replacement pods can be expensive.
5. Flair Espresso Maker Manual Press
The Flair espresso machine is designed to be both visually appealing and functional. This model is lightweight, can be disassembled quickly, and is one of the easiest machines to clean.
The Flair is about average size, measuring in at 12 x 6 x 10 inches and weighing 4.9 pounds. It contains minimal components, making it travel-friendly. You can just pack it into the compact travel case that’s included and take it with you.
Some coffee enthusiasts believe that making authentic espresso is an art form. If that sounds like you, then this manual espresso machine may be the right choice.
Key Details
Since most espresso machines are electronic, you may be wondering how hand-pressed espresso tastes by comparison. With a manual espresso machine, you can experience the same full-bodied espresso with a thick crema every time.
Some espresso drinkers prefer the taste of manually pressed espresso. In this scenario, the brewer has control over every aspect of the entire process— from selecting the espresso beans to grinding and packing them, operating the lever, boiling the water, applying pressure, and selecting the serving size.
However, manual espresso machines may not be for everyone because they’re time-consuming. There’s also a learning curve before you find the perfect combination of coffee beans, water temperature, pressure point, and size of the espresso. Lastly, this espresso maker comes with a five year manufacturer’s warrantly.
Pros
- Portable carrying case means you can make espresso anywhere.
- No electricity required, which is eco-friendly and saves on your electricity bill.
- 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- There is a learning curve to manually pressed espresso machines.
- Requires more time and steps to make espresso than an electronic machine.
- The lever pressure varies between 6 and 10 bars, which is significantly less than electronic espresso machines.
6. Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine
The Nespresso VertuoPlus coffee and espresso machine creates a perfect hot drink with just the touch of a button. It is a nice, small machine from one of the best known espresso brands on the market.
The Nespresso VertuoPlus measures 5.59 x 16.88 x 12.79 inches and weighs about 9 pounds.
You can make a 5 ounce, 8 ounce or 14 ounce coffee by pushing one button. The espresso machine has an automatic capsule ejection system so you never have to worry about pulling out old capsules and struggling to get the pods out. It will pop them out automatically. All you need to do is push a button and then enjoy.
This Nespresso machine has a 40 oz water tank which is quite large for this small-sized machine. You will need to buy name brand Nespresso pods but there are many flavors available.
Key Details
For one, this espresso maker can make cup after cup without a long wait time in between. The one-touch brewing system is easy enough for anyone to use.
The water tank on the Nespresso machine rotates for easy refills. It heats within 25 seconds and is ready to brew 4 sizes of coffee right away.
The cup holder is adjustable as well and can easily be raised or lowered to fit all size ceramic mugs and travel mugs. The simple look of the Nespresso VertuoPlus will match any kitchen decor.
One drawback is that you do need to purchase Nespresso pods and cannot use loose espresso grounds. However, many people find this very convenient.
Pros
- Adjustable water tank holds 40 ounces of water and heats in 25 seconds.
- Makes 4 sizes of coffee and two sizes of espresso.
- Small, compact design.
- Comes with 10 sample pods.
Cons
- No steam nozzle to froth milk.
- Needs brand name Nespresso pods.
- Made entirely from plastic, no stainless steel features.
7. Breville Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine
Breville is a tried-and-true kitchen appliance brand. The Inissia is easy, efficient, and produces great-tasting espresso. It’s also a good size, measuring 12.4 x 4.7 x 9.1 inches.
We like how quickly this machine reaches ideal espresso temperatures. It only takes 25 seconds to heat up.
Part of the ease of using this product is that it has two pre-programmed buttons: one for a 1.35-ounce espresso shot and the other for 5 ounces of coffee. After 9 minutes of inactivity, this machine shuts off automatically to save energy and for safety reasons.
Key Details
Making your own espresso at home doesn’t get any easier than it does with this machine. There’s minimal steps from start to finish and cleanup is a breeze.
Simply load the machine with your preferred espresso capsule, press the serving size button of your choice, and enjoy your quality espresso topped with crema.
We also like the compact size of this espresso machine. It’s designed to fit into tight spaces while maintaining full functionality. The folding drip tray is also adjustable to accommodate a variety of cup sizes while catching any leftover drips.
Our main reservation is about the durability of this product. Its primary material is plastic which doesn’t deliver the same high-quality construction of espresso machines made of steel. It comes with a one year warranty.
Pros
- 19 bars of pressure guarantee a thick crema on top of every shot of espresso.
- Boots up in under 30 seconds.
- Complimentary welcome kit includes 14 sample espresso capsules.
Cons
- No power button—machine turns on by holding down the serving size button for several seconds.
- Instructions aren’t clear, which may deter new espresso machine users.
- Mainly made of plastic, but we prefer stainless steel machines for their superior construction.
- 1-year warranty only.
Espresso Machine Buyer’s Guide
Buying an espresso machine under $200 requires a lot of time and research. There are hundreds of models to choose from, each one boasting different features from the last. To understand how to operate a manual espresso machine, take a look at this quick 5-minute video:
Choosing the best espresso machine under $200 can be an intimidating and overwhelming decision. To make things easier, we researched the best espresso machines on the market to eliminate this overwhelm. Here are some factors you should consider when looking for an espresso machine.
What Makes a Good Espresso Machine?
The main function of an espresso machine is to brew single-serving sizes of espresso from the comfort of your own home. Each household may have different criteria for their preferred espresso machine, so there isn’t one machine that’s perfect for everyone. Depending on your needs, here are the characteristics that may affect which espresso machine is right for you.
Versatility
Out of all the functions of an espresso machine, this type of product should excel at its one main function—making amazing espresso. However, that doesn’t mean an espresso machine can’t have other features and functions. For that reason, one characteristic you may deem important when choosing your espresso machine is versatility.
Beyond Espresso
There are many different types of coffee: regular coffee, espresso shots, cappuccino and more. If you enjoy multiple types of coffee, you may prefer a more versatile machine that can make both regular coffee and espresso.
This option will save you counter space and money because you don’t need to buy two machines.
Choose from Multiple Cup Sizes
Most espresso machines make a 1.35-ounce serving size of espresso. If they also brew regular coffee, the serving size for that is usually 5 ounces.
However, some espresso machines have multiple serving sizes to choose from. In some cases, you can brew 2.7 ounces of espresso and 7.7 ounces of coffee.
Multiple serving size options come in handy if you have several coffee drinkers in your household or if your coffee preferences vary by day.
Some espresso machines also have an adjustable drip tray. This allows for larger cup sizes, too.
Features
If it makes espresso, then it’s technically an espresso machine. However, there are additional features that can take an average espresso machine from good to great. Below are some features that can make a huge difference in the quality of the espresso and the machine’s ease-of-use.
High-pressure Pump
A big difference between regular coffee and espresso is that espresso is brewed under high pressure. The amount of pressure used in an espresso machine is referred to as “bars” of pressure.
Espresso is made by pushing hot water through ground espresso beans at immense pressure. Without high pressure, you would just have coffee. To get that rich espresso flavor and thick crema on top, you need high pressure.
The standard amount of pressure to make espresso used to be 9 bars. However, the technology of espresso machines has changed. New innovations have upgraded the pressurized pumps from 9 bars to as many as 20 bars of pressure.
Modern-day espresso machines typically have 19 bars of pressure. Manual espresso machines have less pressure—up to 10 bars— and the amount of pressure varies per user.
If having a bold espresso taste and thick crema on top is a priority, look for espresso machines with 19 bars of pressure.
Auto shutoff
Many kitchen appliances are energy efficient, including espresso machines. If an espresso machine isn’t energy efficient, it will be kept on all day if you don’t manually shut it off. This is a waste of electricity, and therefore, money.
The auto shutoff feature in many espresso machines is convenient. You never have to wonder whether you left the machine on all day. Machines with this feature turn off automatically after a certain amount of time. This time varies per machine, but the average is 9 or 10 minutes of inactivity.
Quick Heat-up Time
Imagine waking up early, heading straight for the espresso machine, and having to wait several minutes for it to turn on. This may not seem like a long time. But when you’re waiting for that first sip of espresso, it feels like forever.
You should look for espresso machines that boot up in 30 seconds or less. Most machines with this feature take about 25 seconds to heat-up, but some heat-up in only 15 seconds.
Ease of Use
Like all kitchen appliances, some are easier to use than others. User-friendliness is a great feature to look for if you want simplicity and convenience in an espresso machine.
Making a cup of espresso should be easy. Too many buttons and steps can be overwhelming. We recommend you look for user-friendly espresso machines.
An espresso machine is user-friendly when it only requires one push of a button to brew espresso or regular coffee. Simply load the espresso capsule into the machine, close the lever, and press the button that indicates the size you want.
Some machines require you to press several buttons before getting your coffee. One-button operation can prevent frustration and confusion when all you want is a simple espresso.
Tank Size & Empty Tank Detection
To brew espresso, machines require water. If the machine brews regular coffee, then it needs even more water. Tank size matters because the smaller the tank, the more frequently you will have to refill it.
Some espresso machines have tanks as small as 24 ounces while others can store over 40 ounces.
Most tanks don’t have empty tank detection but this is a notable feature. A red light will signal to the user when the tank is nearing empty. This will prevent you from trying to make an espresso only to find out that the tank needs to be refilled.
Types of Home Espresso Machines
There are many types of espresso machines on the market. Home espresso machines can best be described by categorizing them into two main types: automatic and manual. Commercial espresso machines used in coffee shops can be further categorized into many more types. For home purposes, those are the two kinds you’re most likely to encounter.
Automatic
Many of us rely on technology every day. Making our daily cup of coffee is no different. Automatic, or electric, espresso machines are the most common type of espresso machine for at-home use.
The reason why this is the most common is because making espresso requires a lot of pressure. It’s easiest and quickest to use an espresso machine that creates and releases this pressure automatically.
Nespresso
Within the category of automatic espresso machines, there is a type of espresso machine that uses Nespresso pods. This is one of the most popular and common types of automatic espresso machines on the market.
Simply buy your Nespresso pods and you’re ready to brew.
Shoppers who want the most convenient option may prefer Nespresso machines for their espresso. This eliminates the need to grind your own coffee beans.
Some espresso machines take coffee grinds instead of pods like Nespresso, but this is another step for the user to take.
Manual
Manual espresso machines are less common. They do exist and make for another great option.
The main difference between a manual and automatic espresso machine is that a manual machine requires more time and effort than an electric machine.
A manual machine also requires strength and consistency. The user is in full control of water temperature and pressure, two factors that make a huge difference in the taste and quality of the espresso. In automatic machines, these two factors are consistent every time.
Despite the extra time and effort needed to operate a manual espresso machine, they’re still popular because the user is in full control.
There is a small learning curve with manual espresso machines. It’s believed that once you master the manual espresso machine, you’ll reap the benefits of experiencing authentically brewed espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of espresso machines is best?
A: This depends on how much time and effort you want to put into your daily shot of espresso. Automatic espresso machines are the quickest and most user-friendly.
Nespresso-friendly machines are the best if you don’t want to grind up your own coffee beans. Manual espresso machines are the best for espresso lovers who want the most control over all the factors that go into making espresso (i.e. water temperature, amount of pressure, etc.).
Q: How do home espresso machines work?
A: Most home espresso machines are very easy to use. Automatic espresso machines require minimal steps: simply load the machine with an espresso pod and select the serving size you prefer. Manual espresso machines require several more steps, which are explained in the video mentioned above.
Q: How long do espresso machines last?
A: Espresso machines should last several years of daily use without breaking. The best espresso machines have manufacturers warranties that cover them for at least two years.
Q: Can espresso machines make regular coffee?
A: Yes, the majority of modern-day espresso machines can make regular coffee as well. Rarely, an espresso machine will be limited to just espresso.
This is uncommon and something you won’t come across in our reviews above. All of the espresso machines we recommend can brew both espresso and regular coffee. Some even make other types of coffee, such as lattes and cappuccinos.
Conclusion
Espresso machines have come a long way. The very first espresso machine was fully manual. You had to grind your own espresso beans, bring water to a boil, and pull the lever to achieve the right amount of pressure. Nowadays, espresso lovers can purchase a fully automatic espresso machine under $200 that does most of the work for you.
Modern espresso machines allow you to make delicious, high-quality espressos from the comfort of your own home. With an home espresso machine, you have full control over how much sugar and cream go into your coffee. You can also save money by brewing espresso at home.
Most modern households go through a lot of coffee. If this sounds like your family, then investing in an espresso machine is a smart move. We hope that after reading our detailed espresso machine reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best espresso machine under $200 that’s right for your kitchen.
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