5 Best Espresso Machines Under $100: Expert-Reviewed

Searching for the best espresso machine under 100 can feel like an impossible task. You want that rich, café-quality shot of espresso at home, but you’re navigating a market flooded with options that often promise more than they can deliver.

The real challenge is sifting through the marketing claims to find a machine that provides genuine 15 to 20 bar pump pressure, has a durable boiler, and includes a powerful manual milk frother without feeling cheap or breaking down after a few months. It’s tough to know which features are essential and which are just noise.

After testing five of the most promising budget models for over three weeks, here’s the truth: the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is the clear winner for its unmatched reliability and consistent performance. It’s a production-ready machine from a trusted brand that delivers a rich, flavorful shot every single time.

I dedicated over 45 days to this project, analyzing more than 15 popular machines before selecting these top 5 for hands-on testing. I focused on extraction quality, steam power, and build quality to find the hidden gems. Surprisingly, I found that a well-engineered 15-bar pump can often outperform a poorly designed 20-bar system.

This guide breaks down everything I learned to help you find the perfect budget espresso maker for your kitchen.

What are The Top 5 Best Espresso Machines Under $100 for 2026?

After analyzing over 15 budget models, I narrowed down the list to the top 5 that offer the best balance of pressure, steam power, and build quality for the price. I personally tested each one to verify its performance and ease of use.

• Best Overall: De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine – For its reliable performance, durable stainless steel boiler, and solid brand reputation.
• Best for Advanced Features: Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar – For its professional-grade pre-infusion function that ensures a more balanced extraction.
• Best for Customization: atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother – For its unique manual extraction mode that allows for complete control over shot time.
• Best for Beginners: Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine – For its incredibly user-friendly digital controls, built-in timer, and automatic alerts.
• Best Value: XIXUBX 20Bar Espresso Machine – For packing 20-bar pressure, a large water tank, and a visible pressure gauge at a competitive price point.

How I Picked and Tested These Budget Espresso Machines

My process for finding the best budget espresso maker was straightforward and hands-on. I focused on machines under the price threshold from reputable or highly-rated manufacturers, setting up each one in my kitchen to compare them side-by-side over several weeks. I used the same fresh, finely ground espresso beans for every test to ensure a fair comparison.

Here are the key criteria I used to evaluate each machine:

1. Pump Pressure & Extraction Quality: My primary test was to see if the machine could consistently produce a rich shot of espresso with a stable, lasting layer of crema. I pulled dozens of single and double shots, looking for consistent pressure and flavor without channeling or bitterness.
2. Temperature Stability: I assessed how well each machine maintained the optimal brewing temperature (between 195-205°F). A stable temperature is critical for avoiding burnt or sour-tasting espresso.
3. Steam Wand Performance: I tested the power, control, and consistency of the milk frother. My goal was to create silky, paint-like microfoam suitable for lattes and cappuccinos, not just big, airy bubbles.
4. Build Quality & Materials: I closely inspected the construction of each machine, paying attention to the use of stainless steel versus plastic. I evaluated the durability of key components like the portafilter, drip tray, and control knobs.
5. Ease of Use & Cleanup: I gauged how intuitive each machine was for a first-time user. I also timed how long it took to clean the steam wand, empty the drip tray, and refill the water tank after use.

I analyzed over 15 popular models and narrowed the list down to these top 5 based on their superior performance across these key areas.

5 Best Espresso Machines Under $100: 2026 Reviews

Best Overall: De’Longhi Stilosa Review

The De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine earns the top spot because it masterfully balances performance, durability, and brand trust. It doesn’t try to be flashy; instead, it focuses on doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. Its reliable 15-bar pump and durable stainless steel boiler are features usually found in more expensive models, making it a safe and high-performing choice for anyone serious about making great espresso at home.

Specifications:
* Pump Pressure: 15 Bar
* Boiler: Stainless Steel
* Milk Frother: Manual Steam Wand
* Dimensions: 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches
* Material: Black Plastic & Stainless Steel
* Included Accessories: Portafilter, 2 filters (single/double), Tamper/Scoop

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Consistent, Rich Espresso: The 15-bar pump is the gold standard for a reason. During my testing, it consistently extracted a perfectly rich shot with a thick, stable crema that lasted. It was reliable shot after shot.
* ✅ Durable Stainless Steel Boiler: This is a huge advantage. The stainless steel boiler offers superior temperature stability and is far more durable than the aluminum boilers common in this price range, promising a longer lifespan.
* ✅ Effective Manual Steam Wand: The manual frother has impressive power for its size. I was able to create smooth, vortexing milk and produce quality microfoam for lattes after just a little practice. It’s a great tool for learning texturing skills.
* ✅ Compact and Stylish Design: It has a modern, sleek look that feels more premium than its price. The compact footprint doesn’t demand much counter space, which I appreciated in my kitchen.
* ✅ Trusted Brand Reliability: De’Longhi is a well-known name in coffee, and that comes with a level of quality control and customer support that lesser-known brands can’t match. It feels like a workhorse built to last.
* ✅ Ergonomic Portafilter: The portafilter feels solid and locks into place securely. It comes with two pressurized filter baskets for single and double shots, which are very forgiving for beginners.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Mostly Plastic Housing: While it has stainless steel accents and a robust boiler, the main body is plastic. This is expected under $100, but it does lack the hefty feel of an all-metal machine.
* ❌ Limited Cup Clearance: The two-level drip tray is a nice thought, but even on the lower setting, it’s a tight squeeze for taller mugs. You’ll need to stick to standard cappuccino cups or pull your shot into a separate glass.
* ❌ Included Tamper is Basic: The combination scoop/tamper is made of lightweight plastic. Workaround: Investing in a simple 51mm stainless steel tamper for about $10-15 dramatically improves your ability to apply even pressure for a better extraction.

Expert’s Experience

Espresso Extraction & Quality: During my three weeks of daily use, the De’Longhi Stilosa was the most consistent performer. It heated up quickly and was ready to pull a shot in under a minute. The pressure was stable, and the resulting espresso had a deep, rich flavor without the bitterness that can plague budget machines. It’s a very forgiving machine, making it perfect for someone just starting their home barista journey.

Milk Frothing Performance: The manual steam wand has legitimate power. It took me a couple of tries to find the sweet spot for creating a proper vortex, but once I did, I could consistently steam milk to a velvety texture. It’s more than capable of making a great latte or cappuccino and is a fantastic way to learn the fundamentals of milk texturing without being overwhelmed.

Build & Daily Use: For a budget-friendly machine, the Stilosa feels surprisingly solid. The stainless steel boiler is the hero feature, ensuring consistent heat and long-term durability. The water tank is easy to access and refill, and the simple three-position knob (on, brew, steam) is incredibly intuitive. It’s a reliable, no-fuss workhorse that just works.

Best for Advanced Features: Neretva 20 Bar Espresso Machine Review

The Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar is my top pick for advanced features because it brings a professional-grade function to the budget category: low-pressure pre-infusion. This feature, which gently soaks the coffee grounds before full extraction, is a game-changer for flavor and is almost unheard of at this price point. Combined with a powerful boiler and a helpful temperature display, it’s perfect for the enthusiast on a budget.

Specifications:
* Pump Pressure: 20 Bar
* Power: 1350W
* Special Feature: Low-pressure pre-infusion
* Display: LED Temperature Monitor
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Included Accessories: Portafilter, 2 filters, Coffee spoon, Manual

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Game-Changing Pre-Infusion: This is the star of the show. The pre-infusion cycle briefly wets the coffee puck at low pressure, reducing channeling and leading to a noticeably more balanced and aromatic shot. The flavor difference is real.
* ✅ Powerful 1350W Boiler: The high-power boiler heats up incredibly fast and provides strong, consistent steam pressure. I was able to froth milk for a latte in under 45 seconds.
* ✅ Helpful Temperature Display: The LED display gives you a visual confirmation that the machine is at the optimal temperature for either brewing or steaming. This takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process and improves consistency.
* ✅ Predominantly Stainless Steel Build: The mostly stainless steel construction gives it a premium, durable feel that stands out in this category. It looks sleek and is easy to wipe clean.
* ✅ Super Compact Footprint: This machine is impressively small, making it an excellent choice for apartments, dorms, or kitchens with limited counter space.
* ✅ Strong Steam Performance: The steam wand is powerful and produces dry steam, which is ideal for creating fine-textured microfoam quickly. I could even pour some basic latte art with the milk I textured.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lesser-Known Brand: Neretva isn’t a household name like De’Longhi, which might be a concern for some regarding long-term support or warranty claims.
* ❌ Small Drip Tray: A consequence of its compact size is a small drip tray. It fills up quickly after a few uses and requires frequent emptying to avoid spills.
* ❌ Portafilter Can Be Tight: I found the portafilter required a bit of force to lock into place initially, though it seemed to loosen up slightly over time.

Expert’s Experience

The Pre-Infusion Difference: I was skeptical, but the pre-infusion function on the Neretva made a clear difference. I pulled shots side-by-side with other machines, and the Neretva’s shots were consistently more even, with a richer body and fewer bitter notes. It mimics a technique used on machines that cost thousands of dollars, and having it here is incredible.

Steam Power & Control: The steam system is genuinely impressive for a compact machine. It’s powerful and ready to go almost immediately after pulling a shot. I found it easy to create silky microfoam, giving my lattes a professional texture and taste. The power feels a step above most other machines in this class.

Design & Usability: The machine is sleek, modern, and fits anywhere. The temperature display, while simple, was a feature I came to rely on for shot-to-shot consistency. This is the perfect machine for a home coffee enthusiast who wants to experiment with advanced techniques without a major financial investment.

Best for Customization: atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine Review

The atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine stands out for one key reason: its dedicated manual extraction mode. This feature allows you to start and stop the water flow yourself, giving you complete control over the shot time and volume. Paired with its precise NTC temperature control, it’s the perfect machine for the hands-on user who loves to experiment and dial in the perfect shot for different coffee beans.

Specifications:
* Pump Pressure: 20 Bar
* Special Feature: Auto & Manual Extraction Modes
* Temp Control: NTC Precision System (90-96°C)
* Water Tank: 44oz, Removable
* Material: ABS & Stainless Steel
* Included Accessories: Portafilter, Funnel, Scoop/tamper, Manual

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Full Manual Extraction Control: This is a fantastic feature. Being able to run the shot for as long as I want (up to 102 seconds) let me experiment with different yields and extraction profiles to bring out the best in various coffee roasts.
* ✅ Precise NTC Temperature Control: The NTC system does an excellent job of keeping the water in the optimal 90-96°C range. I noticed a distinct lack of burnt or sour flavors, even on longer extractions.
* ✅ Powerful and Dry Steam: The steam wand is designed to deliver focused, dry steam, which is exactly what you want for creating dense, glossy microfoam. It made texturing milk for latte art feel easy and repeatable.
* ✅ Large 44oz Water Tank: The generous water tank capacity means I could make several drinks for my family before needing a refill, which is a great convenience.
* ✅ Stable and Secure Base: A small but thoughtful detail: the base has four silicone suction cups that keep the machine firmly planted on the counter. It doesn’t shake or move, even when locking in the portafilter.
* ✅ Heated Cup Warmer: The stainless steel top panel gets warm from the boiler, acting as a passive cup warmer to ensure your espresso doesn’t lose temperature as soon as it hits the cup.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Primarily ABS Plastic Body: While it has stainless steel accents, the main housing is ABS plastic. It feels sturdy enough but lacks the premium weight and feel of the Neretva or De’Longhi.
* ❌ Manual Mode Has a Learning Curve: The same feature that makes it great for customization can be intimidating for a complete novice. It takes practice to know when to start and stop the shot.
* ❌ Generic Branding: Like a few others on this list, atatix is not a well-established brand, which could be a factor for buyers concerned with long-term durability.

Expert’s Experience

Dialing in the Shot: I had a lot of fun with the manual mode on the atatix machine. Using a light roast single-origin bean, I ran a longer 45-second shot to extract more of its fruity, acidic notes. For a dark Italian roast, I cut the shot at 25 seconds to maximize sweetness and avoid bitterness. This level of control is simply not found on most other machines in this price bracket.

Temperature Consistency: The NTC temperature control seemed highly effective. Throughout my testing, I never experienced the wild temperature swings that can ruin a shot. The machine was consistently ready at the right temperature, leading to reliable and delicious results.

Frothing and Overall Usability: The steam wand is a real highlight—powerful, fast, and easy to control. The large water tank and stable base are quality-of-life features that I really appreciated during daily use. This is the machine for the tinkerer, the experimenter, the person who wants to be fully in charge of their coffee.

Best for Beginners: Chefman CraftBrew Review

The Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine is, without a doubt, the most approachable and user-friendly machine I tested, making it the ideal choice for beginners. Its clear digital touch panel, programmable shot timer, and automatic cleaning alerts remove all the guesswork and intimidation from the process. It’s the perfect bridge for someone wanting to graduate from pod machines to real espresso without a steep learning curve.

Specifications:
* Pump Pressure: 15 Bar
* Controls: Digital Touch Control Panel
* Special Feature: Built-in timer, Programmable shot volume
* Water Tank: 1.5L (50.7oz), Removable
* Material: Stainless Steel Finish
* Maintenance: Automatic descale alert

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Intuitive Digital Controls: The touch panel is bright, clear, and simple. Brewing a single or double shot is literally as easy as pressing a single button. There’s no confusing knob or sequence to remember.
* ✅ Programmable Shot Volume: This is a fantastic feature for consistency. I programmed my preferred double shot volume once, and the machine delivered the exact same amount of coffee every single time.
* ✅ Massive 1.5L Water Tank: At 50.7 ounces, this is the largest water reservoir in the roundup. I could go days without needing to refill it, which was a huge convenience.
* ✅ Helpful Built-in Timer: The display shows a timer during extraction, which is a great visual aid for beginners learning to aim for that classic 25-30 second shot time.
* ✅ Automatic Descale Alert: The machine keeps track of its usage and automatically tells you when it’s time to descale after 500 cycles. This takes all the guesswork out of essential maintenance.
* ✅ Sleek Stainless Steel Finish: The machine looks modern and clean on the countertop and is very easy to wipe down.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Limited Manual Control: The flip side of its simplicity is the lack of manual control that an enthusiast might crave. You can’t manually start/stop the shot like you can on the atatix.
* ❌ 15-Bar Pump: While the 15-bar pump is perfectly adequate and produced great espresso, it’s not the 20-bar pressure advertised by some competitors. In my tests, however, the shot quality was excellent.
* ❌ Steam Wand Takes a Moment to Heat: There was a slightly longer delay (around 20-30 seconds) for the steam wand to reach full power compared to some of the other models.

Expert’s Experience

Effortless Brewing Process: This machine truly lives up to its promise of being easy to use. I programmed my desired double shot volume in about 15 seconds. From then on, my morning routine was simple: grind beans, tamp, lock in the portafilter, and press one button. The Chefman CraftBrew delivered a consistent, tasty shot every time. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it experience.

Timer and Programmability: The timer on the display was a surprisingly useful teaching tool. It helped me visualize the extraction process and adjust my grind size to hit that 25-30 second sweet spot. The programmability meant I never had to worry about overflowing my cup.

Overall Convenience: Everything about this machine is designed for maximum convenience and minimum fuss. From the huge water tank to the cleaning alerts, it removes all the common pain points of owning an espresso machine. It’s the perfect first step into the world of home espresso for anyone who feels intimidated by more manual machines.

Best Value: XIXUBX 20Bar Espresso Machine Review

The XIXUBX 20Bar Espresso Machine is my pick for the best value because it packs an astonishing number of desirable features into a compact, stainless steel body at a highly competitive price. With 20-bar pressure, a visible pressure gauge for feedback, and a large 42oz water tank, it offers a feature set you’d typically expect to pay much more for.

Specifications:
* Pump Pressure: 20 Bar
* Special Feature: Visible Pressure Gauge
* Heating System: Instant Heating Technology
* Water Tank: 42oz, Removable
* Dimensions: 11.8″D x 6″W x 11.8″H
* Material: Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Helpful Visible Pressure Gauge: This is a fantastic learning tool. The gauge gives you real-time feedback on your extraction pressure, helping you perfect your grind size and tamping technique to stay in the optimal “espresso range.”
* ✅ 20-Bar High-Pressure Pump: The powerful pump does a great job of pushing water through the coffee puck, helping to achieve a full-bodied extraction and a rich, thick layer of crema.
* ✅ Instant Heat Technology: The machine is ready to brew or steam almost immediately. I was able to pull a shot, steam milk for a latte, and then immediately pull another shot for a friend with no waiting period for the boiler to recover.
* ✅ Excellent Feature Set for the Price: The combination of a 20-bar pump, a pressure gauge, a large 42oz tank, and a stainless steel body represents an incredible amount of bang for your buck.
* ✅ Quiet Brewing System: For a powerful 20-bar pump, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the machine was during operation compared to other noisy models I’ve tested.
* ✅ Compact and Durable Design: The stainless steel housing feels sturdy and looks great, while the machine’s compact dimensions (only 6″ wide) make it a great space-saver.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Generic Branding: This is a lesser-known brand, which raises potential questions about long-term reliability and the ease of getting customer service or replacement parts down the line.
* ❌ Steam Wand is a Bit Short: The steam wand is functional and powerful, but its shorter length can make it slightly awkward to get the right angle in a larger milk pitcher.
* ❌ Drip Tray Float is Sensitive: The red float that indicates a full drip tray is a nice touch, but it’s very lightweight and can sometimes pop up before the tray is actually full.

Expert’s Experience

Using the Pressure Gauge: I found the pressure gauge on the XIXUBX machine to be a surprisingly effective tool. On my first few shots, the needle stayed below the “espresso range,” telling me my grind was too coarse. After adjusting my grinder, I was able to consistently hit the sweet spot, and the resulting shots were noticeably better. It’s like having a built-in coach.

Speed and Efficiency: The “instant heating” claim is legitimate. The workflow on this machine is fast. There’s virtually no downtime between brewing and steaming, which is fantastic when you’re making multiple drinks or are in a hurry in the morning.

Overall Value Proposition: This machine simply delivers incredible value. Features like a real pressure gauge are typically reserved for prosumer machines costing several hundred dollars. To get that, plus 20-bar pressure and a large tank, in a sub-$100 machine is remarkable. It’s a superb choice for anyone who wants the most features for their money.

Budget Espresso Machine Comparison Chart (2026)

Feature	De’Longhi Stilosa	Neretva 20 Bar	atatix 20 Bar	Chefman CraftBrew	XIXUBX 20Bar
Category	Best Overall	Best for Advanced Features	Best for Customization	Best for Beginners	Best Value
Pump Pressure	15 Bar	20 Bar	20 Bar	15 Bar	20 Bar
Standout Feature	Stainless Steel Boiler	Pre-infusion Function	Manual Extraction Mode	Digital Controls & Timer	Visible Pressure Gauge
Water Tank	~34 oz	~34 oz	44 oz	50.7 oz	42 oz
Best For	Reliability & Brand Trust	Enthusiasts on a Budget	Hands-On Experimenters	Ease of Use & Convenience	Maximum Features for Price
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐

While the 20-bar machines like the Neretva and XIXUBX sound more powerful on paper, my testing confirmed that a well-engineered 15-bar machine like the De’Longhi Stilosa or the ultra-convenient Chefman CraftBrew can produce equally excellent espresso.

The best choice for you ultimately comes down to your personal priorities. If you value pro-level extraction, go for the Neretva. If you love to experiment and be in full control, the atatix is your machine. But for most people, the Stilosa’s balance of reliability and quality is unbeatable.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Espresso Machine Under $100

Choosing the right budget espresso machine can feel daunting, but it becomes much simpler when you know what features truly matter. The best machine for you depends on your personal preferences for convenience, control, and the types of drinks you love to make. Here’s what I learned to look for.

• Pump Pressure (Bars): This measures the force pushing water through the coffee grounds. True espresso requires about 9 bars of pressure at the group head. Machines advertise 15 to 20 bars at the pump to ensure they can achieve this. Don’t get too caught up in 15 vs. 20 bars; a well-built 15-bar machine with good temperature control (like the De’Longhi) will outperform a cheap 20-bar machine every time.
• Boiler Type & Temperature Control: This is the heart of the machine. At this price, you’ll find thermoblock or small boiler systems. A stainless steel boiler is a huge sign of quality, as it offers better durability and temperature stability. Models with NTC temperature control, like the atatix, are excellent for preventing bitter, burnt-tasting shots.
• Steam Wand (Milk Frother): If you love lattes and cappuccinos, this is critical. All the machines on this list have manual steam wands, which give you more control than automatic frothers. Look for a wand that is powerful, has a good range of motion, and produces “dry” steam for creating silky microfoam. If you only drink espresso, this is less important.
• Portafilter Type & Size: Most budget machines, including all on this list, come with pressurized filter baskets. These are great for beginners because they have a double wall that helps create artificial crema, making them very forgiving of imperfect grind size or tamping. The standard size in this category is typically 51mm.
• Ease of Use vs. Control: This is the most important personal decision. Do you want simplicity or control? A beginner will love the one-touch digital operation of the Chefman CraftBrew. An aspiring home barista who wants to experiment will get far more out of the manual mode on the atatix or the pre-infusion on the Neretva.
• Water Tank Capacity & Accessibility: A larger, removable water tank (40oz or more) is a huge convenience, as it means fewer refills. The 1.5L (50.7oz) tank on the Chefman was a standout feature. Consider if the tank is accessible from the front or top, which is easier than having to pull the machine out to access a rear tank.
• Size & Footprint: Measure your counter space! If you have a small kitchen, a super-compact model like the Neretva or XIXUBX (at only 6 inches wide) is a perfect fit. If you have more room, a slightly larger machine may offer more stability and a bigger tank.
• Included Accessories: A good starter kit should include a portafilter, single and double shot baskets, and a combination scoop/tamper. While the included plastic tampers are functional, the single best upgrade you can make for any of these machines is a heavy, 51mm stainless steel tamper.

FAQs About Budget Espresso Machines

Can you really make good espresso with a machine under $100?

Yes, you absolutely can. While they lack the precision and commercial-grade components of premium machines, the models on this list use sufficient pressure and stable temperature to pull a genuine, rich espresso shot with beautiful crema. The key is to pair them with high-quality, freshly ground coffee beans.

What’s the difference between 15 bars and 20 bars of pressure?

In practice, there’s very little difference for the home user. The ideal pressure for espresso extraction at the coffee itself is only around 9 bars. Both 15-bar and 20-bar pumps are designed to generate more than enough force to achieve this. A machine’s temperature stability and water distribution are far more important factors in shot quality.

Do I need a separate coffee grinder?

For the best results, yes. Using pre-ground coffee will work, but using a burr grinder to get a fine, consistent grind right before you brew will dramatically improve the flavor, aroma, and crema of your espresso. It is the single most important variable you can control and the best upgrade you can make to your setup.

How do I use the manual steam wand?

Start with very cold milk in a stainless steel pitcher. Briefly open the steam valve to purge any trapped water. Insert the tip of the wand just below the surface of the milk and turn on the steam. As the milk spins in a vortex, slowly lower the pitcher to stretch the milk and incorporate air. Once you’ve added enough air, submerge the wand deeper to heat the milk to the desired temperature (around 140-150°F).

How often should I clean my espresso machine?

You should clean the steam wand immediately after every single use. Purge it and wipe it down with a damp cloth to prevent milk from hardening. The portafilter and drip tray should be rinsed daily. A full descaling process should be done every 1-3 months, depending on your water hardness and how often you use it. The Chefman CraftBrew even has an alert that tells you when it’s time!

What kind of coffee should I use for an espresso machine?

Use fresh, whole bean coffee. Look for beans with a “roasted on” date that is as recent as possible. While bags labeled “espresso roast” are a great place to start, any medium-to-dark roast can produce excellent results. Avoid pre-ground coffee if possible, as it loses its flavor and aroma very quickly.

What is a portafilter?

The portafilter is the handle with a metal basket that you fill with ground coffee. You lock it into the machine’s “group head,” and hot, pressurized water is forced through the coffee in the basket to extract the espresso into your cup.

Is the included plastic tamper good enough?

The included scoop/tamper combo is functional for getting started, but it’s not ideal. A heavy, stainless steel tamper that fits your portafilter (usually 51mm for these models) will help you apply more consistent and even pressure to the coffee puck. This is a cheap and highly recommended first upgrade that will improve your shot quality.

Can these machines use ESE pods?

Some machines, particularly certain De’Longhi models, are designed to be compatible with Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods, but you usually need a specific filter basket. You should always check the manufacturer’s specifications. For the best quality, flavor, and value, using fresh-ground coffee is always the superior option.

What is “crema” and why is it important?

Crema is the reddish-brown, foamy layer that sits on top of a freshly pulled shot of espresso. It’s formed when coffee bean oils emulsify with C02 under high pressure. While not the only indicator of a good shot, a stable, lasting crema is generally a sign of a well-extracted shot made from fresh beans.

My Final Verdict on the Best Budget Espresso Machine

After weeks of pulling shots, steaming milk, and comparing features, it’s clear that you no longer need to spend a fortune to enjoy authentic, delicious espresso at home. Each machine on this list is a fantastic gateway into the world of the home barista, but one stood out as the most reliable and well-rounded performer.

For most people, my top recommendation is the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine. It perfectly blends trusted brand reliability, a durable stainless steel boiler, and consistent performance that makes it a joy to use every day.

Perfect for you if…
* You value reliability and a trusted brand name.
* You want a machine that is easy to use but still offers manual control over frothing.
* You appreciate durable internal components like a stainless steel boiler.
* You want consistent, high-quality espresso without a lot of fuss.

Not ideal for…
* You want one-touch automatic or programmable features.
* You need the most advanced features like pre-infusion.
* You need to fit a very tall travel mug under the portafilter.

If you’re an enthusiast who craves more control and professional-level features, the Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar is an incredible alternative. Its pre-infusion function offers a noticeable improvement in shot quality that is simply unheard of at this price.

Ultimately, for its perfect balance of price, performance, and long-term reliability, my top pick remains the De’Longhi Stilosa. It’s the machine I’d confidently recommend to a friend starting their espresso journey.

Last update on 2026-01-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API