Quality espresso is more attainable than you think. You don’t need a cafe’s massive, intimidating machine. A great affordable espresso machine for your kitchen counter is totally possible. It can change your morning routine without emptying your wallet.
We tested several popular models to find the best value. You’ll be surprised at the rich crema and flavor you can pull at home. Let’s find the perfect one for you, so you can skip the coffee shop line and save money in the long run. Your new favorite cup is just a few paragraphs away.
Product Comparison Table: 11 Best Affordable Espresso Machine
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CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker…
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9.6 |
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CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Pressure…
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9.2 |
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KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact…
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9.1 |
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XIXUBX 20Bar Espresso Machine, Compact Espresso Maker with Milk…
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8.9 |
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(2025 Upgrade)20 Bar Espresso Machine with Built-in Anti-Clog Coffee…
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8.7 |
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Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine, 15-Bar Pump Digital Espresso Maker…
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8.5 |
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XIXUBX Espresso Machine, 20 BAR Pump Temperature Control, Compact…
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8.3 |
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XIXUBX Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine…
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8.2 |
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Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine, 15-Bar Pump Digital Espresso Maker…
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8.0 |
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CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar…
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7.8 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 11 Affordable Espresso Machine
CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker with Steam Milk Frother, Stainless Steel Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men, Silver
The CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine is a compact, 20-bar system designed to bring the core experience of a coffee shop into your kitchen. It’s built for anyone who appreciates a genuine espresso, latte, or cappuccino but wants the convenience and consistency of making it at home. With its stainless steel construction and practical size, it fits neatly on a countertop without dominating the space, making it a practical choice for both apartments and offices.
At its heart is a professional 20-bar pressure pump. This is the key component for proper extraction, forcing hot water through finely ground coffee to produce that signature rich aroma and flavorful crema. A helpful built-in pressure gauge lets you monitor the process, so you can fine-tune things based on your prefered roast or taste. The powerful 1350W boiler heats up quickly, getting you from setup to first sip in a short amount of time. A standout feature is the integrated steam wand.
This isn’t just for heating milk; it’s for texturing it. With a little practice, you can create creamy microfoam that’s essential for a velvety latte or a thick cappuccino foam. It opens the door to personalizing your drinks and even trying your hand at simple foam art. The machine comes with both single and double shot filters, giving you flexibility depending on whether you’re brewing for yourself or a friend. Functionality is straightforward.
CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel Cappuccino & Latte Machine with Steam Frother for Home, 43.9oz Water Tank, Coffee Gift for Women & Men, Silver
The CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine is designed for anyone who wants to bring the cafe experience into there own kitchen. This stainless steel machine combines a professional 20-bar pressure system with a dedicated steam wand, giving you the tools to craft authentic espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos on your own countertop.
At its core is that 20-bar professional pump.
This high pressure is key for proper extraction, forcing hot water through finely ground coffee to produce a shot with a rich aroma and that distinctive layer of crema on top. It’s the foundation for any great espresso-based drink. The powerful 1350W motor ensures the system operates consistently for a reliable brew every time you use it.
For milk-based drinks, the integrated steam frother is your best friend.
The steam wand lets you texture milk, creating everything from silky microfoam for latte art to a thicker froth for a classic cappuccino. It adds that creamy dimension that makes specialty coffees so enjoyable. You can experiment and find the perfect texture for your personal preference.
We appreciate the practical design of this machine. Its compact footprint means it won’t dominate your kitchen, fitting easily on limited counter space.
atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Pressure Espresso Maker, with 44OZ Removable Tank, Compact Stainless Steel Coffee Machine for Home, Office, Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men
The atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is designed for anyone who wants real cafe-quality coffee without leaving the house. It combines professional features with a straightforward, compact design that works well on a kitchen counter or in an office. At its core is a professional 20-bar pressure system. This is what creates authentic espresso.
It maintains the ideal 9-10 bars of pressure during extraction, which fully saturates your coffee grounds to pull out rich, complex flavors and that signature layer of golden crema on top of every shot. You also get precise temperature control with its NTC system. It heats to the perfect 90-96°C range in about 30 seconds and locks it in.
This consistency means you can reliably brew both light roasts for brighter notes and dark roasts for deeper flavors, revealing your beans true character every time. The integrated steam wand is purpose-built for texturing milk. It delivers powerful, dry steam to turn regular milk into velvety microfoam in seconds. This dense, glossy foam is essential for making proper lattes and cappuccinos, and it’s the perfect canvas if your learning latte art.
KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact Espresso and Cappuccino Machine with Preheating Function, 4 Cup Espresso Maker for Cappuccino or Latte, Gift for Coffee Lover
The KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is a compact and user-friendly appliance designed to bring the core espresso experience into your home kitchen. It’s built for those who appreciate a good cup of coffee but prioritize simplicity and space efficiency over complex, professional setups. Operating this machine is straightforward. A single control knob with an indicator light manages the brewing process, making it very approachable for beginners.
A helpful pause function lets you stop the flow if needed, and a important safety reminder: always turn the knob to “OFF” to release pressure before opening the water tank or removing the portafilter. It utilizes a 3.5 bar pressure system and fast heating technology to brew between one and four cups of espresso—that’s up to 240ml—in about two minutes. The included glass carafe has clear markings so you can easily see how much you’ve made.
Just remember not to exceed the 240ml water max, or you might get some leakage. For milk-based drinks, the integrated steam wand is a key feature. The 800W heating element gets it ready quickly, producing steam to froth milk into a creamy microfoam in roughly 40 seconds. This allows you to create cappuccinos and lattes, and even try your hand at simple latte art.
XIXUBX 20Bar Espresso Machine, Compact Espresso Maker with Milk Frother, Stainless Steel Coffee Machine for Cappuccino&Latte, 42oz Water Tank, Visible Pressure Gauge, Home&Office, Silver
The XIXUBX 20Bar Espresso Machine is a compact, silver stainless steel coffee maker built for home or office use. It combines professional-grade pressure with a user-friendly design to help you create authentic espresso-based drinks consistently. At its core is a professional 20BAR pressure pump. This system is engineered for full flavor extraction, aiming to produce a rich, aromatic espresso with that signature layer of lasting crema each time you brew.
For the best results, its important to prime the machine correctly and use the right coffee grind and tamp. The fast, stable heating system is designed to reach optimal brew and steam temperature quickly. To adress common concerns, it works to maintain that temperature during use. For the hottest coffee, a quick 60-second preheat cycle and warming your cups first is recommended. The enhanced steam wand is a key feature for milk drinks.
Its upgraded design aims for denser microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, with a consistent steam output. The wand has a 360-degree adjustable and detachable nozzle for precise control and, crucially, easy cleaning. Remember to always purge the wand before use and wipe it clean immediately after steaming to keep it performing well. This is a critical step for maintenance. Its built with a sturdy, compact footprint. A stable, non-slip base helps keep it secure on your counter during operation.
(2025 Upgrade)20 Bar Espresso Machine with Built-in Anti-Clog Coffee Grinder, Expresso Coffee Machines with Milk Steam Wand/Frother/Tamping Tools,Espresso Maker with Grinder for Lattes-Charcoal
The (2025 Upgrade) 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Built-in Grinder in Charcoal
This espresso machine is designed to bring the core cafe experience into your kitchen, focusing on reliability and quality without the complexity. Its central feature is the integrated coffee grinder, specifically engineered to solve a common frustration. The upgraded clog-crushing grind path uses a wider, polished chute and a reinforced auger to instantly eject grounds.
This means you can use a variety of beans, including oily dark roasts, and expect consistent performance without messy jams or constant maintenance. It’s built for daily use without the hassle. At its heart, the machine utilizes a 20-bar pressure pump. This professional-level pressure is key for extracting the full depth of flavor and rich aroma from your coffee grounds. It aims to produce a shot with a nice crema, the golden layer that signifies a well-pulled espresso.
This foundation is what allows you to build a truly satisfying cup, whether you prefer a straight espresso or a milk-based drink. For those drinks, the steam wand is included to texture milk. It’s a single-hole wand that provides enough power to create microfoam, which is the silky, velvety foam used for lattes and flat whites. It can also create a thicker froth for cappuccinos.
Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine, 15-Bar Pump Digital Espresso Maker w/Steam Wand for Latte & Cappuccino, Compact Espresso Coffee Machine w/ 1.5L Removable Water Reservoir – Stainless Steel
The Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine is designed for anyone who wants to bring the core espresso shop experience into there own kitchen. It centers around a reliable 15-bar pump system, which is the pressure standard for extracting rich, flavorful espresso with that desirable crema on top.
Paired with the integrated steam wand, this machine gives you the tools to not only pull shots but also texture milk for lattes and cappuccinos, making it a complete compact coffee station.
You have a notable amount of control over your brew. The digital touch panel and programmable timer let you adjust the shot volume to match your taste. Prefer a longer, milder lungo? Program it. Want a shorter, more concentrated ristretto? You can do that to.
The machine comes with both single and double shot baskets, offering flexibility whether your making a quick solo drink or two at once. The 1.5-liter removable water reservoir is a practical feature; it holds enough for several drinks before needing a refill, and you can easily take it off to fill or clean at your sink.
Its compact stainless steel design fits well on a counter without dominating the space, and the finish is chosen for easy maintenance—a simple wipe-down usually suffices.
XIXUBX Espresso Machine, 20 BAR Pump Temperature Control, Compact Espresso Maker with Steam Milk Frother, Professional Coffee Makers for Home, Cappuccino, Latte, Gifts for Coffee Lover, Black
The XIXUBX Espresso Machine is a compact, professional-grade coffee maker designed for home use. It combines a powerful 20-bar pump with precise temperature control to help you create authentic espresso-based drinks consistently.
At its core, the 20-bar pump system is what delivers a true espresso experience. This high pressure is key for extracting the full, rich flavor from your coffee grounds and producing that signature layer of crema on top.
For the best results, you’ll want to use finely ground espresso coffee and apply firm pressure with the included tamper. A quick tip: before your first brew, make sure the portafilter and water tank are securely locked in place, as this is a common reason the machine might not start.
Consistency is crucial, and that’s where the PID temperature control comes in.
This advanced feature maintains a stable water temperature throughout the extraction process, ensuring a balanced and flavorful cup every single time. To get the machine ready, simply preheat it for about 60 seconds until the indicator light becomes solid.
XIXUBX Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Steam Wand, Compact Design Coffee Maker for Latte, Safety Lock & Tritan Cups, 800w, Black
The XIXUBX Coffee Machine is a compact espresso maker designed for simplicity and speed. It uses 3.5 bar pressure and an 800W system to brew a fresh espresso in about two minutes, which is ideal for a fast morning routine. Just remember to let it cool for a bit between uses for the best temperature consistency.
Its small footprint is a major advantage.
Measuring just 8.3 inches deep and under 12 inches tall, it fits easily on cramped countertops or in office kitchenettes without dominating the space. The whole unit is surprisingly light, making it easy to move if you need to.
For milk-based drinks, the adjustable steam wand helps you texture milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The wand has a heat-resistant sleeve and includes a red pin to clear any milk blockages—a common issue with steam wands.
A tip: if the wand feels stiff when attaching it, twist it gently. The manual notes it might not be the best fit if you have limited hand strength.
Operation is straightforward with a single control knob. You turn it one way to brew coffee and the other to activate the steam wand. The portafilter has a locking clip for easy grounds disposal. Always press and hold the “Lock” button before you remove the portafilter to avoid spills.
Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine, 15-Bar Pump Digital Espresso Maker w/Steam Wand for Latte & Cappuccino, Compact Espresso Coffee Machine w/ 1.5L Removable Water Reservoir – Black
The Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine is a compact, digital coffee maker designed to bring the core elements of a cafe experience into your home kitchen. Its centered around a reliable 15-bar pump system, which is the pressure standard for extracting rich, flavorful espresso with that desirable crema on top.
Paired with the integrated steam wand, this machine allows you to complete the full process: pulling a shot and then frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos, all without needing a seperate appliance.
This model emphasizes customization and control. The digital touch panel and programmable timer let you tailor the shot volume to your personal taste. You can opt for a shorter, more concentrated ristretto, a standard espresso shot, or a longer, mellower lungo.
This flexibility means the machine adapts to you, rather than you having to adapt to a fixed brewing cycle. It comes with both single and double shot filter baskets, giving you options whether your making a quick solo cup or sharing with someone else.
Practicality is a key feature here. The 1.5-liter removable water reservoir is a thoughtful detail; it holds enough water for several drinks before needing a refill, and you can easily detach it to fill or clean at your sink.
CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Professional Italian Pump Espresso Coffee Machine for Home Cappuccino & Latte Maker, Stainless Steel, Creamy
The CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is designed to bring a genuine cafe experience into your home without the complexity or huge footprint of commercial machines. Its core is a professional 20 bar Italian pump, which is the key to extracting espresso with a strong flavor and that signature layer of rich, golden crema.
Paired with a fast 1350-watt boiler, the machine preheats in about 30 seconds, meaning you can go from idea to a finished shot in just one to three minutes.
Beyond espresso, the powerful steam wand lets you texture milk to create rich, creamy microfoam. This opens up the world of espresso-based drinks, allowing you to craft lattes and cappuccinos right at your kitchen counter.
You can be confident in the construction, as all parts that contact your coffee or water—the boiler, tank, brew head, and steam wand—are made from food-safe, quality materials.
Whether your an experienced coffee enthusiast or just starting your home barista journey, the CHULUX Slim is built to be your first choice. It avoids bulky designs and complicated operations.
Affordable Espresso Machine Buying Guide
Finding a truly affordable espresso machine doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. The right model can deliver a fantastic shot without draining your wallet. This guide will help you navigate teh key features to look for, ensuring you get the best value and a great cup every morning.
Pressure and Pump Type
For authentic espresso, you need proper pressure. Look for a machine with a pump that reaches 9 bars of pressure—this is the sweet spot for extracting rich flavor. Many affordable models use a vibratory pump, which is perfectly effective for home use. Steer clear of machines that rely solely on steam pressure; thay often don’t produce the same quality crema.
Milk Frothing Capability
Do you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos? Then a steam wand is essential. A manual wand gives you control to texture milk just how you like it, though it takes a bit of practice. Some cheaper machines use a simpler panarello wand, which is easier for beginners. Consider how often you’ll use this feature; if it’s daily, a decent wand is worth prioritizing.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
If a machine is fussy to operate or clean, you won’t use it. Look for intuitive controls and accessible parts. Removable water tanks and drip trays make for simple maintenance. Machines with a built-in grinder are convienent, but separate grinders often offer better quality. Ask yourself: will this fit smoothly into your daily routine, or become a countertop burden?
Size and Footprint
Counter space is precious. Measure your available area before you fall in love with a machine. Some affordable espresso machines have a surprisingly small footprint, while others are taller to accomodate a cup underneath. Think about where it will live and how you’ll access the water tank and controls—a little planning prevents big headaches later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Espresso Machine
What makes an espresso machine “affordable”?
An affordable machine usually costs under $300. It focuses on the core features needed to make good espresso at home. You might not get all the bells and whistles of a pro model, but you get a reliable way to brew.
Can I really make good espresso with a budget machine?
Yes, absolutely. While it takes some practice, a good affordable machine can produce excellent shots. The key is often using fresh, finely-ground coffee and learning how to use your machine’s settings properly.
What’s the difference between a steam wand and a pump?
This is a big one. Pump machines use pressure to force water through coffee, which is the standard method for true espresso. Steam machines use steam pressure, which is weaker. For a richer, more authentic espresso, a pump machine is generally the better choice.
Do I need a separate grinder?
For the best results, yes. Pre-ground coffee loses its flavor quickly. A burr grinder lets you grind beans fresh for each shot, which makes a huge difference in taste. Some budget machines come with a grinder built-in, but they can be less consistent.
How important is the milk frother?
If you enjoy milk drinks like lattes, it’s very important. Look for a machine with a steam wand, not just a simple frothing device. A steam wand gives you more control to create silky microfoam for your drinks.
Are they difficult to clean and maintain?
Not really, but regular cleaning is essential. Most need you to rinse the steam wand after use and descale the machine every few months to remove mineral buildup. It’s a simple process that keeps your machine running well for years.
What should I look for in my first machine?
Focus on a pump-driven machine with a decent steam wand. Check that it has a standard portafilter (the coffee basket holder) so you can upgrade accessories later. Reading reviews from other home users can really help you see how a model performs day-to-day.
Key Takeaways
Great espresso is an investment in daily joy. It’s about that quiet moment in teh morning or the small afternoon lift. You don’t need a complicated setup or a huge budget to make it part of your routine. The right machine for you is the one that fits your life and feels simple to use every single day.
Starting your home espresso journey is easier than ever. An affordable espresso machine removes the biggest barrier to entry. It lets you practice, learn, and enjoy without pressure. You’ll find that perfect, personal ritual that makes your day just a little bit better, and that’s what its really all about.