Selecting the perfect home espresso machine can be quite a challenge given the abundance of options available. So, what’s the best beginners espresso machine? Whether you’re an aspiring home barista or simply someone who enjoys the occasional latte, Food and Meal will dissect the top selections and key features of home espresso machines to simplify your decision-making process. Let’s get started!
How to Choose the best espresso machine for beginners
If you’re new to the world of home espresso, there are several key factors to weigh before making your initial espresso machine purchase.
With the market offering a wide array of machines, it can be a challenge to narrow down your choices. From mastering the intricacies of steam wands to understanding the level of expertise you’re willing to acquire, I’ll break down the most crucial considerations.
Your Willingness to Learn
Be honest with yourself about your current espresso knowledge and your eagerness to expand it. Do you grasp the correct espresso brewing ratios? Can you proficiently froth milk to create microfoam? Are you adept at dialing in espresso from ground beans?
If you already possess this knowledge from videos or some barista training, consider a more hands-on machine. This is equally valid if you’re enthusiastic about learning these skills. As a novice home barista, you’ll go through a fair amount of coffee initially, so ensure you have the time to commit to learning before diving into a fully manual machine.
Remember, coffee is all about personal preference. It’s absolutely fine if you’re not inclined to master all these aspects. That’s where semi-automatic and fully automatic espresso machines shine. These machines handle much of the work for you, leaving you with the simple task of choosing your preferred beverage.
Pressure
Pressure, measured in bars, signifies the force with which the espresso machine pushes water through the coffee grounds. Each bar corresponds to atmospheric pressure; for reference, standing outside in the open air equates to one bar of pressure.
Nine bars is considered the ideal pressure for brewing espresso. But why do some machines advertise 15 bars of pressure?
Think of it like driving a car. When navigating city streets, you wouldn’t push the accelerator pedal to the max because the car can easily reach the speed limit with minimal effort.
An espresso machine operates similarly. While a machine may be capable of generating 15 bars of pressure, it seldom utilizes this full potential. Running the machine at a portion of its power ensures consistent and smooth operation, preventing undue wear on internal components.
If you’re aiming for cafe-quality espresso, seek a machine that can produce at least 9 bars of pressure, though 15 bars are preferable.
Steam Wands
Both manual and automatic espresso machines can be equipped with either manual or automatic milk frothers.
Certain manual espresso machines feature automatic steam wands. These are ideal for those who occasionally desire a latte but don’t want to fuss with steaming milk. These machines often come at a lower cost, making them budget-friendly options.
If you anticipate delving deep into the world of espresso, lean toward a manual steam wand. It may take some practice initially, but once you master it, you’ll unlock a realm of diverse milk textures.
On the other hand, if you simply crave a morning coffee fix, consider an automatic steam wand. It delivers excellent texture without the need for manual intervention.
Boilers
Home espresso machines are categorized into single and double boilers. Single boilers have a single heating system for brewing espresso and a separate one for steaming milk.
A double boiler can be advantageous when you expect to make numerous drinks consecutively. However, it tends to significantly increase the price.
Single boiler machines remain highly effective. The only limitation is that you can’t simultaneously brew espresso and steam milk. As a beginner, there’s no need to stress about acquiring a double boiler unless you plan on becoming a dedicated home barista.
For virtually any novice, finding a quality single boiler machine is an excellent starting point that will serve you well for years to come.
Best Espresso Machine for Beginners
Breville Barista Express
Digital temperature control gives you more power over your shots
Manual milk steaming so you can create your perfect espresso drink
The large water tank means you don’t need to refill it often
At Food And Meal, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring the Express espresso machine, and it has truly left an impression on us. Designed with home coffee enthusiasts in mind, this machine combines several remarkable features that set it apart.
One standout attribute is the integrated burr grinder, which grants coffee aficionados the freedom to choose their desired coffee dose, resulting in a truly personalized espresso experience. This level of control is a game-changer for crafting the perfect cup.
The precise digital temperature control ensures that each espresso shot is brewed at the ideal heat, offering even more control over the extraction process. Even if you decide to stick with the default settings, you can still expect consistently excellent results.
A generous 67oz water tank capacity further adds to the convenience. It allows you to create multiple drinks in succession without the need for constant refills. This feature proves particularly handy when entertaining guests, eliminating any waiting time between rounds.
While this espresso machine does require some knowledge about coffee extraction and milk texturing due to its manual nature, it’s worth noting that it’s our top choice for beginners seeking an all-in-one coffee machine. With no separate grinder required and a forgiving brewing process, it offers room for learning and growth as you become more accustomed to using it.
In conclusion, the Express espresso machine has made quite an impression on the Food And Meal team. It’s a versatile and capable option that caters to a wide range of coffee enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned pros. Its integrated grinder, precise temperature control, and user-friendly design make it a standout choice for enjoying exceptional espresso at home.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Maker
The heating system is ready in a few seconds, so you don’t have to wait long between drinks
The digital temperature changes how hot your coffee and milk is, giving you more control over your drinks
Save up to 8 personalized drinks for easy brewing
The automatic milk frother reduces some control over your drinks
The Barista Touch is a fully integrated coffee machine designed for user-friendliness. Despite its sophisticated appearance, don’t be intimidated; the touchscreen display will guide you through the entire coffee-making process.
The Barista Touch coffee machine is a standout choice for coffee enthusiasts, and at Food And Meal, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring its capabilities. This machine offers a range of features that make it an exceptional addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
Firstly, it comes with an integrated grinder and a substantial 67oz water tank, which means you can prepare around ten drinks before needing to refill. The automatic milk steamer is a game-changer, as it takes the complexity out of frothing, consistently delivering excellent results.
What truly sets the Barista Touch apart is its user-friendly programming. The touchscreen display allows for digital temperature control for both espresso and milk, giving you complete control over your coffee beverages. You can even save up to eight personalized settings. Additionally, there are five pre-programmed drink options, and the machine provides step-by-step instructions for brewing them, ensuring consistent results.
However, it’s essential to note that if you prefer a hands-off approach to making espresso, this machine may not be the best fit.
For beginners looking to master the art of crafting espresso drinks, the Barista Touch is an excellent choice. The display offers guidance, making it easy to understand the fundamentals of espresso beverages. As you become more experienced, you can dive into the programs and fine-tune each element to match your specific preferences.
In summary, the Barista Touch coffee machine is a versatile and user-friendly option that caters to both newcomers and seasoned coffee enthusiasts. Its integrated grinder, temperature control, and step-by-step guidance make it a top pick for those seeking a customizable and educational coffee experience at home.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Hands-off milk steaming takes the work out of goof microfoam
Up to 15 bars of pressure, which ensures quality extraction for your coffee
The 1.9-liter water tank is plenty for making around 15 drinks in a row
The single boiler means waiting between brewing espresso and steaming milk, and more time between drinks
The Bambino Plus espresso machine is a testament to compact efficiency without compromising on espresso quality. Here at Food And Meal, we’ve explored its capabilities and found it to be a compelling choice.
One standout feature is the automatic milk steamer, which allows you to savor exceptional espresso beverages without the need for extensive milk frothing skills.
Despite its compact size, this machine boasts a generous 1.9-liter water tank, enabling the creation of approximately 15 single espresso shots before requiring a refill. It’s also capable of brewing double shots for those who prefer a more robust coffee experience.
The Bambino Plus further distinguishes itself with its ThermoJet heating system, primed and ready to brew in just three seconds, eliminating any unnecessary waiting time. Its compact footprint makes it a practical choice, even for the smallest of kitchens.
While it doesn’t feature an integrated grinder, the slightly larger portafilter simplifies coffee dosing. This machine is forgiving and reduces the guesswork, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced coffee lovers alike.
In summary, the Bambino Plus espresso machine is a compact powerhouse that excels in delivering quality espresso. Its automatic milk steamer, quick heating, and user-friendly design make it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and space-saving coffee companion at home.
De’Longhi Dedica EC680M
The heating system is ready in under a minute, so you won’t spend time waiting for the machine
Compatible with single-serve pods and pre-ground coffee so you don’t need a separate grinder
Only 6 inches wide, it will fit in any size kitchen
Its simplicity means there isn’t as much room for growth if you want to master espresso
The Dedica espresso machine is a fantastic choice, especially for those who are new to the world of espresso. Its sleek design and ability to brew both single and double shots of espresso make it an attractive option. With the capability to reach a robust 15 bars of pressure and a rapid Thermoblock heating system that’s ready to brew in under 40 seconds, it guarantees a quick and satisfying coffee experience.
Measuring just 6 inches in width, the Dedica is a space-efficient addition to nearly any kitchen. What sets it apart is its versatility, as it can use both pre-ground coffee and single-serve pods, eliminating the need for a separate grinder.
The Dedica’s charm lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for those who want delightful espresso without unnecessary complexity. While the steam wand operates fully manually, allowing for a hands-on approach to milk frothing, it also offers adjustable settings to help you achieve the perfect milk texture for lattes or cappuccinos.
While the Dedica may not be loaded with extravagant features, its straightforward nature is precisely what makes it an appealing choice. It’s designed for individuals who may not necessarily aim to become espresso connoisseurs but still desire exceptional espresso on occasion.
Mr. Coffee ECM160 4-Cup Steam Espresso Machine
15 bars of pressure ensure you get true cafe-style espresso every time
Removable water tank and milk reservoir make cleaning super easy
Simple controls and display make this intuitive and easy to use
Can only produce espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos, removing some versatility
The Cafe Barista is a fantastic option for budget-conscious shoppers looking for a semi-automatic espresso maker. This machine offers automatic milk frothing and brewing, making the process incredibly straightforward – simply fill the filter and press a button.
You have the flexibility to choose between single and double shots of espresso and froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes. With its 15 bars of pressure, you can expect cafe-style espresso quality, even though it doesn’t have a built-in grinder (pre-ground coffee works just fine).
What truly shines about the Cafe Barista is its user-friendly design, which takes the effort out of crafting espresso drinks. Both the water and milk reservoirs are removable, ensuring easy cleaning. Additionally, the milk reservoir has a lid, allowing you to conveniently store leftover milk in the fridge directly within the reservoir.
In summary, the Cafe Barista is an ideal choice for those who want quick and hassle-free lattes and cappuccinos at home. It’s especially well-suited for beginners who want to enjoy espresso beverages without the complexity, all at a very affordable price point.
Gaggia Accademia Espresso Machine
An integrated grinder means you don’t need to buy a separate appliance
8 pre-programmed drink options that you can customize give you control over the final product
The removable brew mechanism and milk reservoir make cleaning a breeze
It’s a bulky machine that will take up a lot of counter space in your kitchen
At Food And Meal, we had the opportunity to explore the Accademia, a top-tier fully-automatic espresso machine that offers a wide range of pre-programmed drink options, providing extensive customization possibilities.
Equipped with an integrated grinder, milk frother, and carafe, it’s an all-in-one solution, eliminating the need for additional appliances. The machine offers seven one-touch drink options that can be tailored to your preferred temperature, milk froth level, and coffee strength.
What truly makes the Accademia stand out is its emphasis on automation. Simply select your desired drink, and the machine handles the rest, making it an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality automatic espresso maker that removes the guesswork from crafting their favorite beverages.
Despite its automation, the Accademia still allows for personalization. A selector knob enables you to fine-tune the intensity of your espresso, the frothiness of your milk, and the temperature to match your specific preferences.
In summary, the Accademia is the ideal choice for individuals who seek some control over their espresso drinks without the need for extensive manual effort. It empowers you to make decisions while leveraging technology to handle the heavy lifting, resulting in a truly customizable coffee experience.
FAQs
Q1: What is an espresso machine, and why is it suitable for beginners? A1: An espresso machine is a specialized coffee machine that forces hot water through finely-ground coffee to produce a concentrated coffee known as espresso. Beginner-friendly espresso machines are designed with user-friendly features to make the brewing process more accessible for those new to espresso making.
Q2: What features should beginners look for in an espresso machine? A2: Beginners should look for espresso machines with a simple interface, easy-to-use controls, and a straightforward brewing process. Features like a built-in grinder, pressurized portafilter, and automatic milk frother can enhance the user experience for beginners.
Q3: Can beginners use espresso machines with manual controls? A3: Yes, beginners can use espresso machines with manual controls, but many find semi-automatic or automatic machines more user-friendly. These machines automate certain aspects of the brewing process, providing consistency and ease for those learning to make espresso.
Q4: Are there budget-friendly espresso machines suitable for beginners? A4: Yes, there are budget-friendly espresso machines that are ideal for beginners. These machines often have essential features for making good espresso without unnecessary complexity.
Q5: Do beginner-friendly espresso machines come with built-in grinders? A5: Some beginner-friendly espresso machines come with built-in grinders, simplifying the coffee preparation process. However, not all machines have this feature, and users may need to purchase a separate grinder.
Q6: How do I clean and maintain a beginner’s espresso machine? A6: Cleaning methods may vary, but regular maintenance involves descaling the machine to prevent mineral buildup and cleaning the portafilter, drip tray, and other removable components. Refer to the machine’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q7: Can beginners use pre-ground coffee or coffee pods in espresso machines? A7: Yes, beginners can use pre-ground coffee or coffee pods in many espresso machines. Some machines are compatible with both ground coffee and pods, offering flexibility for users.
Q8: Are there espresso machines with one-touch operation for beginners? A8: Yes, many beginner-friendly espresso machines come with one-touch or single-button operation. These machines streamline the brewing process, making it easy for beginners to prepare espresso with minimal effort.
Q9: Can beginners make specialty drinks like lattes or cappuccinos with these machines? A9: Yes, many beginner-friendly espresso machines have features like automatic milk frothers or steam wands, allowing users to make specialty drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos without advanced barista skills.
Q10: Can I find beginner-friendly espresso machines with compact designs for small kitchens? A10: Yes, there are espresso machines with compact designs suitable for small kitchens. Look for machines that prioritize space-saving features without compromising essential functions.
In summary, the best espresso machine for beginners depends on individual preferences and needs. Whether it’s affordability and simplicity with a manual machine or convenience with a semi-automatic or fully automatic one, finding the right balance between ease of use and room for learning is key. Reading reviews, seeking recommendations, and practicing with quality beans will help you on your espresso-making journey. Remember, with time and patience, you can master the art of making the perfect espresso to suit your taste.
