Best Espresso Machine Under $500 in 2025: Tested and Reviewed

Are you ready to enjoy rich, bold espresso from the comfort of your home without breaking the bank? Investing in an espresso machine under $500 can be a game-changer, offering you café-quality drinks at a fraction of the price. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is the best for your needs? In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top espresso machines under $500 to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned coffee enthusiast, we’ve got you covered with expert advice and detailed reviews.

List of the Best Espresso Machine Under $500:

Check out the detailed reviews of the best espresso machine under $500 below.

1. De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine

The De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine (EC9255M) combines advanced technology and user-friendly features to deliver a professional coffee experience at home. With a built-in burr grinder, it allows precise, consistent grinding for single or double espresso shots and cold brew, thanks to its 8 grind settings. The machine’s 15-bar Italian pump ensures the right pressure for optimal extraction, while the active temperature control offers three infusion temperatures to maintain ideal brewing conditions for various coffee types.

Designed with the coffee enthusiast in mind, the commercial-style steam wand quickly creates smooth micro-foam, ideal for latte art. The cold extraction technology, developed in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association, enables you to brew cold brew coffee in under 5 minutes, a standout feature for those who prefer this refreshing option. The included barista kit simplifies dosing and tamping, providing a mess-free, professional experience. Additionally, the machine is compact and stylish, with a stainless steel finish that fits well in modern kitchens.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. Built-in conical burr grinder with 8 grind settings.
  2. 15-bar Italian pump for optimal brewing pressure.
  3. Cold Extraction Technology for quick cold brew in under 5 minutes.
  4. Professional steam wand for creating micro-foam and latte art.
  5. Active Temperature Control with three infusion temperatures.
• Pros:
  1. High-quality espresso with consistent pressure and temperature control.
  2. Compact design that fits well in modern kitchens.
  3. Quick cold brew preparation in under 5 minutes.
  4. Professional-grade steam wand for easy latte art.
  5. Easy-to-clean with dishwasher-safe components.
• Cons:
  1. Cleaning process can be cumbersome.

2. Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro Espresso Machine

The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro (RI9380/46) is a high-quality semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home baristas who appreciate commercial-level features at an affordable price. Made in Italy, this machine is equipped with a durable stainless steel housing and is built to last. The 9-bar extraction pressure ensures rich, flavorful espresso with a perfect crema, following the standards set by the Specialty Coffee Association.

A standout feature is the commercial-style 58mm portafilter, which enhances the extraction process, ensuring consistent, professional-grade results. The commercial steam wand provides full control when frothing milk, allowing users to create velvety microfoam ideal for latte art. Additionally, the three-way solenoid valve offers pressure relief, ensuring dry, easily discarded coffee pucks after brewing. The machine’s updated frame includes enhanced vibration pump mounts, which minimize noise during operation, making it quieter than many comparable models.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. 9-bar espresso extraction for professional-quality coffee.
  2. Commercial 58mm portafilter for consistent espresso shots.
  3. Commercial steam wand for creating microfoam and latte art.
  4. 3-way solenoid valve for easy removal of coffee pucks.
  5. Updated frame for quieter brewing and improved durability.
• Pros:
  1. Offers commercial-level features at a competitive price.
  2. Produces rich espresso with thick crema.
  3. Easy to use with a minimalist design.
  4. Durable stainless steel construction for long-lasting use.
  5. Quiet operation due to enhanced pump mounting.
• Cons:
  1. Some users report water leakage issues.

3. Philips 1200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The Philips 1200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine (EP1220/04) delivers a convenient and customizable coffee experience with features that enhance both the taste and the ease of use. Equipped with a 100% ceramic grinder, it provides consistent and precise grinding to preserve the natural aroma of the coffee beans. The machine offers two coffee varieties and allows for easy adjustments through the intuitive touch display, so you can create your perfect cup with just one touch.

A standout feature is the Classic Milk Frother system, which effortlessly creates silky smooth milk froth for cappuccinos and lattes. The AquaClean filter ensures high-quality water by reducing the need for frequent descaling, allowing for up to 5000 cups before a filter change. The Aroma Extract system optimizes both the brewing temperature (90-98°C) and aroma extraction to provide the best coffee flavor.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. 100% ceramic grinder for consistent and aromatic coffee.
  2. Classic Milk Frother for smooth milk foam.
  3. Intuitive touch display for easy operation.
  4. AquaClean filter for up to 5000 cups without descaling.
  5. Aroma Extract system for optimal brewing temperature and aroma.
• Pros:
  1. Easy to use with one-touch coffee selection.
  2. Produces high-quality coffee and espresso.
  3. Simple to clean with dishwasher-safe components.
  4. Attractive design that fits well in modern kitchens.
  5. The AquaClean filter reduces maintenance frequency.
• Cons:
  1. Mixed reviews on the machine’s durability.

4. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine (BES500BSS) delivers a premium coffee experience at home with advanced features and a compact design. Utilizing Breville’s 4 Keys Formula, this machine achieves café-quality espresso in just a fraction of the time. The ThermoJet heating system ensures optimal extraction temperatures in just 3 seconds, while the digital PID temperature control maintains precise water temperature for consistent results.

One of its standout features is the automatic steam wand, which enables users to customize milk texture and temperature for smooth, velvety microfoam—ideal for latte art. The Bambino Plus also incorporates a low-pressure pre-infusion, allowing for gradual pressure buildup to ensure an even extraction and balanced flavor profile. Its 54mm portafilter, designed for 19 grams of coffee, ensures the perfect dose for full-bodied espresso.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. ThermoJet heating system for quick 3-second heat-up time.
  2. Digital PID temperature control for precise extraction.
  3. Automatic steam wand for microfoam and latte art.
  4. 54mm portafilter with 19-gram dose for balanced espresso.
  5. Compact footprint, ideal for small kitchens.
• Pros:
  1. Quick heat-up and precise extraction.
  2. Produces high-quality espresso and microfoam.
  3. Easy to set up and clean.
  4. Compact and space-saving design.
  5. Automatic purge system for optimal temperature.
• Cons:
  1. Small drip tray.

5. De’Longhi Magnifica Start Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The De’Longhi Magnifica Start Fully Automatic Espresso Machine offers a seamless coffee experience with its intuitive design and high-performance features. Equipped with a built-in conical burr grinder, it provides consistent grinding with 13 adjustable settings, ensuring fresh coffee every time. The one-touch control panel lets users easily select from 5 pre-set recipes, including espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, coffee, and hot water.

The LatteCrema™ System is a standout feature, delivering creamy and long-lasting milk froth for lattes and cappuccinos, even with milk alternatives like oat and soy. The adjustable cup height allows for a variety of cup sizes, while the machine’s ability to adjust coffee strength and temperature ensures a personalized brewing experience. Cleanup is easy, thanks to the removable, dishwasher-safe parts and auto-clean function.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. One-touch control for 5 pre-set recipes.
  2. Built-in conical burr grinder with 13 settings.
  3. LatteCrema™ system for creamy, long-lasting milk foam.
  4. Adjustable cup height, coffee strength, and temperature.
  5. Removable, dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup.
• Pros:
  1. Easy-to-use one-touch display.
  2. Consistently produces rich coffee with nice crema.
  3. Versatile milk frother for various milk alternatives.
  4. Adjustable settings for a personalized coffee experience.
  5. Convenient cleaning with auto-clean function and removable parts.
• Cons:
  1. Can be loud during operation.

6. Philips 2200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The Philips 2200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine (EP2220/14) offers an ideal blend of convenience, performance, and affordability. This machine features a built-in 100% ceramic grinder that delivers consistent and precise coffee grinding for optimal flavor extraction. With a simple, intuitive touch display, it makes brewing a variety of coffees, including espresso, cappuccino, and hot water for tea, effortless.

One of the key highlights of this machine is the Classic Milk Frother, which produces smooth, silky milk froth, making it easy to craft delicious lattes or cappuccinos at home. The Aroma Seal feature ensures your beans stay fresh for longer, preserving their flavor. Maintenance is simple, as the removable brew group can be rinsed under the tap, and the AquaClean water filter allows for up to 5,000 cups without the need for descaling.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. Built-in 100% ceramic grinder for precise grinding.
  2. Intuitive touch display for easy coffee selection.
  3. Classic Milk Frother for smooth, silky milk froth.
  4. Aroma Seal to preserve bean freshness.
  5. Removable brew group for easy cleaning.
• Pros:
  1. Simple to use and maintain.
  2. Consistent, fresh coffee with precise grinding.
  3. Convenient Classic Milk Frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
  4. AquaClean filter allows for up to 5,000 cups without descaling.
  5. Cost-effective alternative to capsule-based machines.
• Cons:
  1. Coffee strength and temperature may be underwhelming for some users.

7. Electactic Espresso Machine with Grinder

The Electactic 20 Bar Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine is a versatile and efficient appliance designed to deliver café-quality espresso in the comfort of your home. Equipped with a 15-bar pressure system, this machine ensures optimal extraction for every shot, creating a rich and aromatic espresso every time. The built-in coffee grinder offers adjustable grind settings, allowing users to customize their brew strength and taste.

The machine features an advanced PID intelligent temperature control system, which ensures precise brewing temperatures for optimal extraction, adapting to different coffee beans and preferences. The powerful steam wand quickly produces smooth, rich milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos, enhancing the overall coffee experience. Its sleek, brushed stainless steel exterior and user-friendly control panel with one-touch buttons for steam, hot water, and brewing make it an excellent addition to any kitchen. The 75 oz (2.22-liter) removable water tank offers easy filling and cleaning.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. 15-bar pressure system for optimal espresso extraction.
  2. Built-in grinder with adjustable grind size for personalized flavor.
  3. PID temperature control for precise brewing.
  4. Powerful steam wand for rich, smooth milk foam.
  5. Removable 75 oz water tank for easy filling and cleaning.
• Pros:
  1. Easy to use with intuitive control panel.
  2. Customizable grind settings for personalized espresso.
  3. High-quality espresso with rich crema.
  4. Effective steam wand for frothing milk.
  5. Attractive brushed stainless steel design.
• Cons:
  1. Some users find the steam wand slow for frothing.

8. Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine

The Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine offers a premium at-home espresso experience, featuring advanced technology for precise extraction and consistent performance. With its 1600W Thermocoil heating system, the machine controls water temperature accurately, ensuring the ideal conditions for brewing espresso. The low-pressure pre-infusion helps evenly extract flavors, balancing sweetness, acidity, and bitterness for a harmonious cup of coffee every time.

For those who enjoy lattes and cappuccinos, the Duo Temp Pro delivers excellent manual microfoam texturing, allowing users to create smooth, velvety milk foam for professional-quality latte art. The auto-purge feature ensures that the machine is ready for brewing immediately after steaming, preventing temperature fluctuations. Maintenance is easy with the built-in cleaning indicator, and the machine includes several helpful accessories, such as a Razor Dose Trimming Tool and filter baskets.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

• Key Features:
  1. Low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor extraction.
  2. 1600W Thermocoil for precise water temperature control.
  3. Manual microfoam milk texturing for latte art.
  4. Auto-purge for accurate brewing temperature.
  5. Maintenance indicator for easy cleaning.
• Pros:
  1. Easy setup and solid performance.
  2. Produces excellent espresso with rich crema.
  3. High-quality build and durable construction.
  4. Excellent steam wand for creating microfoam.
  5. Comes with helpful accessories for convenience.
• Cons:
  1. Water temperature may not be hot enough for some.

​How to Choose the Best Espresso Machine Under $500?

Are you craving that perfect espresso shot but don’t want to break the bank? You’re not alone! Finding the best espresso machine under $500 can be a challenge, but with a little guidance, you can find the right one that suits both your needs and your budget.

Understanding Your Needs: What Kind of Coffee Lover Are You?

Before we talk machines, it’s important to reflect on your coffee preferences and lifestyle. Are you someone who needs a quick espresso shot in the morning to kickstart your day, or do you enjoy the ritual of crafting your coffee slowly with precision? Maybe you want something user-friendly, or perhaps you’re an experienced barista looking for control over every shot. Knowing your needs will guide your decision-making process.

If you’re just starting, a machine with easy-to-use features might be the best choice. However, if you already have some experience, you may want an espresso machine that gives you more control over the brewing process, such as adjustable grind settings or steam wands for frothing milk.

Espresso Machine Types: Which One Is Right for You?

There are several types of espresso machines on the market, and each comes with its own set of features. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• Manual Espresso Machines: Perfect for experienced coffee enthusiasts, these machines require more skill, allowing you to have complete control over the extraction process. However, they also require more time and effort.
• Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines: These are the most popular choice for home baristas. They provide a balance between ease of use and control, offering automation for some steps while allowing manual adjustments for others.
• Automatic Espresso Machines: If convenience is key, automatic machines are a great choice. They handle everything from grinding to brewing and sometimes even frothing milk, making them ideal for those who want a hands-off experience.
• Super-Automatic Espresso Machines: If you’re looking for ultimate convenience, a super-automatic espresso machine does it all—grinding, tamping, brewing, and frothing at the press of a button.

Key Features to Look For in an Espresso Machine Under $500

1. Brew Quality: The heart of any great espresso machine is its ability to brew a rich, flavorful shot. Look for machines that offer consistent pressure (around 9 bars), a stainless steel boiler (for heat retention), and good water flow to ensure a quality extraction.
2. Steam Wand: If you love lattes and cappuccinos, you’ll want a steam wand that froths milk to the perfect creamy texture. While many espresso machines under $500 come with a steam wand, the quality can vary. A frothing wand with a good range of motion and steam power will make your drinks café-quality.
3. Grinder: Although many espresso machines don’t include a built-in grinder in this price range, it’s essential to grind your coffee fresh for the best flavor. If your machine doesn’t come with one, consider purchasing a separate grinder that offers precise settings for espresso grounds.
4. Ease of Use: Look for machines that feature user-friendly controls, intuitive buttons, and clear indicators for when it’s time to refill water or empty the drip tray. A straightforward interface will save you frustration in the long run.
5. Size and Design: Espresso machines vary in size, and it’s important to consider the space available in your kitchen. If counter space is limited, opt for a compact machine that fits comfortably. Additionally, choose a design that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic.
6. Durability and Build Quality: Machines under $500 often use plastic components, but it’s crucial to check for models that prioritize durability. Stainless steel construction is always a plus, offering better longevity.

Why You Should Invest in a Good Espresso Machine

An espresso machine under $500 may seem like an investment, but the rewards are worth it. You’ll be able to enjoy café-quality drinks at home for a fraction of the price you’d pay at your local coffee shop. Plus, the convenience of brewing your favorite espresso whenever you like is unmatched. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a seasoned coffee enthusiast, a good espresso machine will elevate your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions When Selecting the Best Espresso Machine Under $500

Can I make espresso with a machine under $500?

Yes, you can definitely make espresso with a machine under $500. Many semi-automatic machines in this price range, like the Gaggia Classic Pro or Breville Bambino Plus, are capable of producing high-quality espresso shots. The key is to find a machine with proper pressure (around 9 bars), consistent temperature control, and a good-quality portafilter.

Do I need a separate grinder for espresso?

While some espresso machines under $500 come with built-in grinders, many do not. If your machine doesn’t have one, you’ll need a separate burr grinder for freshly ground coffee. Freshly ground beans are essential for creating a rich, flavorful espresso. Invest in a good grinder, as it can greatly improve the taste of your coffee.

What features should I look for in an espresso machine under $500?

When shopping for an espresso machine in this price range, consider these essential features:

• Brew quality: Look for machines that offer consistent pressure (9 bars) and stable temperature control for rich, balanced shots.
• Steam wand: A good steam wand is crucial for frothing milk if you enjoy lattes and cappuccinos.
• Ease of use: Choose a machine with a straightforward interface, easy controls, and clear indicators for maintenance needs.
• Durability: Look for machines with sturdy materials like stainless steel to ensure longevity.
• Size and design: Make sure the machine fits your kitchen space and matches your style.

Can a machine under $500 make both espresso and cappuccinos?

Yes! Most espresso machines under $500 are capable of making both espresso and cappuccinos, provided they come with a steam wand. Machines like the Breville Bambino Plus and DeLonghi EC680M Dedica are perfect examples. With a steam wand, you can froth milk to create the creamy texture needed for cappuccinos.

Is a super-automatic espresso machine worth the price under $500?

Super-automatic espresso machines tend to be more expensive, but there are some budget-friendly options, such as the Nespresso Lattissima Pro, which can be found in the $500 range. These machines offer ultimate convenience, as they automate the grinding, brewing, and milk frothing processes. They are ideal for people who want quick and easy coffee without much effort. However, if you’re seeking more control over your coffee, a semi-automatic or manual machine might be a better fit.

What is the difference between manual and semi-automatic espresso machines?

A manual espresso machine requires you to manually control every aspect of brewing, including water pressure and timing, offering full control but also requiring more skill and effort. On the other hand, a semi-automatic espresso machine automates some parts of the process (like water flow) but still allows you to control the grind size, tamping, and extraction time. Semi-automatic machines like the Gaggia Classic Pro or Breville Bambino Plus are perfect for home baristas who want a balance of convenience and control.

How long do espresso machines under $500 last?

The lifespan of an espresso machine under $500 depends on the model and how well you maintain it. On average, a good-quality espresso machine can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer with proper care. Regular cleaning, descaling, and using filtered water can help extend the life of your machine.

Are espresso machines under $500 durable?

While many espresso machines in this price range are made from plastic components, there are several durable models with stainless steel bodies or parts, such as the Gaggia Classic Pro or the Breville Bambino Plus. Durability is an important factor, so look for models with a solid build and a good warranty to ensure longevity.

Can an espresso machine under $500 make a quality shot of espresso like a café?

Yes, an espresso machine under $500 can make a quality shot of espresso, but it requires some attention to detail. Machines like the Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro are capable of producing café-quality espresso, provided you use fresh, high-quality beans, a good burr grinder, and proper technique. While you may not have all the high-end features of professional machines, these models can still deliver excellent results with the right care.

Conclusion

Finding the best espresso machine under $500 doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or performance. After testing and reviewing several top contenders, we’ve highlighted the best machines that strike a perfect balance between price, features, and espresso quality.

Enjoyed this guide of best espresso machine under $500? Then be sure to check out our other espresso machine guides and reviews.

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