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We tested 6 espresso machines; here are the best at every price point

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The best espresso machines to make your home your new favorite coffee shop

The BestReviews Testing Lab rigorously tested a wide range of espresso machines over several weeks, evaluating their performance across different price points to find the best options for every type of coffee lover. 

Whether you’re a beginner who is looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy high-quality espresso at home, or an experienced barista seeking features for pros, these espresso makers have something to offer everyone. With so many options on the market, finding the right espresso machine can be daunting, so we’re here to help you choose, based on which features are important to you. 

In this article: Nespresso Virtuo Pop+, Ninja Luxe Café Premier and Breville Oracle Jet

Best single-use espresso maker: Nespresso Vertuo Pop+

Best for: Espresso newbies, alarm snoozers

Why we like it: The Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ combines easy functionality with a fun design that’ll look great on any countertop. This model works with all of Nespresso’s proprietary pods and is able to produce espresso in just seconds. If you’re not concerned with super-high-quality espresso, or you’re always on the go and want something quick and easy, this is a perfect option.

Testing takeaways:

Price: $129.99

Best Midrange espresso maker: Ninja Luxe Café Premier

Best for: High-quality espresso in a beginner-friendly machine, households with varying preferences 

Why we like it: The Ninja Luxe Café Premier is a do-it-all machine. It can make espresso, cold brew, drip coffee and other cold coffee drinks. It’s great for someone who wants to up their game and make their espresso by hand each morning, or for that household with several different flavor preferences. The versatility of the Ninja can’t be understated and especially at a pricepoint that’s more approachable than most espresso makers.

Testing takeaways:

Price: $499.95

Best high-end espresso maker: Breville Oracle Jet

Best for: Coffee enthusiasts and aspiring home baristas

Why we like it: This espresso machine is a beast. In a good way, of course. From the second you turn the machine on, you’re walked through an espresso experience, if you will. The Oracle Jet walks you through how to set up your machine, dial it in and then make your first espresso drink. From there, it gives you feedback on your first shot and what grind size to move to in order to improve the shot quality. Sometimes, the displays on products are sort of a gimmick, but not with this machine. The display is bright, responsive and allows you to click on what drink you’re trying to make, providing detailed instructions on how to create it. You can even press the grinder icon on the screen and make the grinder run … pretty darn cool!

Testing takeaways:

Price: $1,999.99

Other great options

De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

Best for: Cold brew and espresso enthusiasts

If you’re looking for a unique espresso machine that features a different approach to brewing, this is it. The De’Longhi Stilosa is a manual espresso machine that’s affordable and doesn’t feature as much of a learning curve or investment as the higher-end machines. This machine allows you to make great espresso, and features a milk frother, all for under $100!

Price: $83.00

Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

Best for: Small kitchens and minimalists

The Bambino Plus is one of the best machines on the market, especially for the price. This machine allows you to make incredible espresso and was one of the Testing Lab’s favorite products of 2023. If you’re able to tinker and dial in your espresso, it will keep you from going to any coffee shop anytime soon, it’s that good … seriously! It features single- or double-shot brewing capabilities and a steam wand that produces impressively frothy milk for your lattes.

Price: $499.99

De’Longhi EC9255M La Specialista Arte Evo

Best for: Espresso and cold brew lovers, De’Longhi fans

De’Longhi, one of the most trusted names in the espresso space, created a machine that makes both traditional espresso and cold brew coffee. The dual capability is important for some, and you’re ensuring that you’re purchasing one of the top brands on the market. Also, the integrated sensing grinder and temperature control system both ensure optimal espresso brewing.

Price: $669.99

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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