How Much Does an Espresso Machine Cost?
But how much does an espresso machine cost?
If you’re a beginner you can get an espresso machine for $200. Home baristas need more features and variety. They have to extend their budget and go for a machine between $400 to $1000. Commercial espresso machines are even more expensive. They cost between $2000 and up to $30000. The best seller espresso machine cost $700. And the average price of espresso machines available is $1200.
There are quite a few things that go into deciding how much an espresso machine will cost. There are many factors to consider before you can determine the price of your new machine. Let’s start with the basics.
Table of Contents
- What is Real Espresso?
- Types of Espresso Machines
- Espresso Machine Brands
- Espresso Machines for Beginners
- Espresso Machines for Baristas
- Are Expensive Machines Worth the Money?
- Commercial Espresso Machine
- Can You Make Espresso Without an Espresso Machine?
- The Bottom Line
- What To Do Next?
What is Real Espresso?
Espresso is strong coffee made by forcing hot water through tightly-packed, finely-ground coffee. It’s popular for its rich, dark color and strong flavor.
A single shot of espresso is tiny—just under one ounce. Because of its short volume, espresso has less caffeine than a cup of regular coffee.
Making good espresso is about variables. The Italian Institute of Espresso gives a definition of true espresso. They describe the exact process and measurements of espresso. Refer to the following table for the technicalities of crafting espressos.
Then there are the four elements of making real espresso:
- Coffee
- Grinder
- Espresso machine
- Barista skills
You’ll need a good espresso machine because this brewing method requires pressure. Yes, you can make espresso using pods machines, or an Aeropress. But, the result won’t be the same quality.
Also, have in mind that cheaper espresso makers use steam instead of pressure pumps. This results in lower pressure, and lower quality of extraction, flavor, and aroma. [1, 2]
Types of Espresso Machines
There are different types of espresso makers and finding the best, could be daunting. Especially if you’re a beginner. We have listed the 15 types here below for your reference:
- Espresso machines with refilling water tanks
- Plumped espresso machine
- Single boiler
- Double boiler
- Volumetric
- Heat exchanging
- Steam pressured
- Pump pressured
- Manual
- Semi-automatic
- Automatic
- Fully-automatic
- Ultra-automatic
- Pod espresso makers
- Stovetop
If you’re a beginner, opt for a good automatic espresso machine. It will produce high-quality espressos with the least effort from your side.
Are you more experienced and want more control over your extraction? If yes, semi-automatic or even manual could be better choices for you. [3]
Espresso Machine Brands
There are so many brands out there to choose from, it can be overwhelming. When I was looking for my first espresso maker, I remember spending hours researching.
There are a lot of choices, but ultimately it is about what you want and what you can afford. Some of the more popular brands in the US include Breville, DeLonghi, Philips, and Gaggia.
Breville
Breville makes espresso machines that are considered to be among the best available. Their product range is wide to cover any budget and features.
Breville is ideal if you’re a beginner and with a tight budget. This brand offers pro-level machinery to please any discerning coffee connoisseur. If you’re looking to treat yourself to something different, Breville is a brand you can trust.
DeLonghi
DeLonghi is an Italian company founded in 1902 and headquartered in Treviso, Italy. The manufacturing is spread over three continents (Europe, America, and Asia).
DeLonghi products include home appliances, kitchen appliances, espresso machines, and coffee makers. The company’s products are distributed in over 90 countries worldwide.
Philips Saeco
Philips Saeco is perhaps best known for its super-automatic espresso machines. These appliances do everything from grinding the beans to steaming the milk. They deliver a shot of espresso at the touch of a button.
Philips Saeco is known for its design and build quality in these products. The company offers a wide range of automated features. Philips has an excellent reputation outside of the espresso world. They are a wonderful choice if you’re looking to buy a high-end machine that will truly last for long.
Gaggia
Gaggia is a company that has been making espresso machines for over 70 years. It’s one of the most respected names in espresso.
The Gaggia Classic, their entry-level machine, is among the best machines for beginners. It’s easy to use and produces high-quality drinks every time.
If you’ve ever bought coffee at a coffee shop, chances are you’ve had it made with a Gaggia espresso machine. But don’t assume that only fancy chain coffee shops use Gaggia machines. They’re also popular among home baristas who want to make rich, flavorful drinks.
Also, we recommend checking out the Gaggia Brera if you’re looking for an automatic model. And the Gaggia Anima if you’re a fan of milk-based drinks. Both have received excellent reviews on Amazon for their ease of use and quality. [4, 5, 6, 7]
Espresso Machines for Beginners
How do you replace your favorite barista? With a home espresso machine!
Sure, you could go to your local coffee shop, order a drink, and have a great time chatting with the barista. But why not save that money for something else and make a drink yourself? Even better, you don’t need to spend a fortune! You can get an espresso machine that’s capable of making excellent drinks for well under $1,000.
But If you’re new to the espresso world, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Easy to Use
You want an espresso machine that is easy to use. Some machines can be very complex. They involve several steps before your coffee is ready. Don’t put yourself through that. Find one that’s simple to operate so you can make the best possible shot of espresso with the least effort.
Easy to Clean
You want an espresso machine that is easy to clean. If it’s not easy to clean, you’re going to be pretty reluctant to use it on a daily basis. Because cleaning takes time and effort and it’s hard when you could get a cup from Starbucks instead. So find something easy to clean so using it every day becomes second nature.
Durability
You want an espresso machine that is durable. You won’t find much value in a product if it breaks down after a few uses. So finding one that lasts for years will give you great value out of your buy long-term.
After researching and testing dozens of machines, Bambino Plus was our favorite. This machine is capable of pulling quality shots and steaming perfectly textured milk. You won’t get this from any other budget-friendly machine. [8]
Espresso Machines for Baristas
If you’re a barista at home who wants an espresso machine, this short list will help you find the right one.
But, when purchasing an espresso machine, ask yourself the following questions:
What is my budget? Espresso machines vary in cost from less than $100 to more than $1,000.
What are my preferences? Consider whether you would like a semi-automatic or fully-automatic machine. Do you want a pump-driven or steam-driven machine? Do you need a grinder or frother?
What is my true skill level? If you’re new to making espresso, consider buying a super-automatic espresso machine. Are you experienced and want more features? Then get a semi-automatic espresso maker that gives more control over the extraction.
The golden rule of purchasing any appliance is this: buy the best model with all the features you can afford. In most cases, it will serve you longer. So it will be more cost effective than buying something cheap that breaks down often.
It’s also important to check if the warranty covers parts and labor before it expires! This will ensure that your investment pays off in long term satisfaction. The espresso maker will keep brewing up delicious Italian spreads day by day.
Breville Barista Pro
Breville Barista Pro is a solid, midrange espresso maker. It makes it easy to brew great shots if you’re an experienced barista. It’s also user-friendly to help budding baristas master their craft.
Here’s what you get with the Breville Barista Pro:
- User-friendly digital controls that adjust for all types of coffee drinks. A Digital PID temperature control and built-in pressure gauge. These features make it simple to maintain consistent temperatures and pressure. Ensuring even extraction and excellent tasting espresso every time you brew.
- ThermoJet heating system which preheats in 3 seconds. So you’re ready to go just as quickly as your machine’s steaming arm.
- Integrated grinder which delivers a consistent dose of freshly ground coffee. A powerful motor ensures quiet grinding at high speeds.
- High-pressure steam wand for creamy milk texturing. This is a must for lattes and cappuccinos.
Breville Barista Express
For home baristas ready to take their cup of Joe up a notch. The Breville Barista Express espresso machine is an ideal and versatile option. From customizable settings to convenient presets. This semi-automatic machine is easy to use for all skill levels and perfect for beginners too.
The machine is made of stainless steel. It has many features that make it easy to use right out of the box—and as you gain more experience.
The water tank is easily removed, making it easy to fill with water directly from the faucet. The cup warmer on top makes sure that your cups will be hot enough to maintain the espresso’s temperature.
The milk frother lets you add a delicious layer of foam to your espresso, like those served at coffee shops.
The Barista Express also comes with a tamping tool. This ensures that you don’t over or under-stuff your portafilter. One of the essentials to great-tasting espresso!
If you’re new to brewing espresso at home, the Barista Express makes it easy. Select one of two convenient presets for single or double shots.
Once you become more experienced, you can customize every aspect of your shot. Everything from grind size to extraction time.
Are Expensive Machines Worth the Money?
We’re always debating why we should spend our hard-earned money on expensive espresso machines. But most of us are too lazy to get out the calculator and calculate the cost versus value.
Before deciding whether expensive espresso machines worth it or not, check these points
What Types of Coffee Do You Like?
Do you drink lattes or cappuccinos? If so, a proper espresso machine is a great investment. Steam your milk on the side and pour it over a fresh shot of espresso. The end result is heavenly.
Or, do you like to get creative with your coffee? Do you enjoy experimenting with different beans? Different grinds? Different water temperatures? If so, an espresso machine will allow you to experiment with extractions and flavors. You can also take up home roasting as a hobby if you’re really adventurous.
But, if none of this appeals to you, then an espresso machine might not be worth the price tag for now.
How Much Coffee Do You Drink?
This is also a question to answer if you’re wondering whether an espresso machine is worth it or not.
If you’re someone who drinks a lot of coffee, it’s worth investing in a more expensive model. And if you use the machine every day, paying more for better quality and taste seems like the right move.
A survey shows that 70% of espresso drinkers consider quality an important aspect. So, if you’re going to commit to this drink, you should spend more. You’re going to take it back in quality.
Are you drinking coffee occasionally or living alone? Then buying a cheaper espresso maker might be the way to go. Or you can still get your fancy drinks at Starbucks for special occasions!
How Important is Convenience?
For starters, think about your own personal trade-offs. Do you love latte art but hate cleaning up (like me)? Then an espresso machine that steams milk for you is a lifesaver.
Do you like to experiment with different coffee beans, but don’t have much counter space? Then a combined unit will be the most convenient option since they usually have a grinder built in.
As with any big buy, consider your budget. How much are you willing to spend? What are the most important features for you?
How to Find the Best Espresso Machine for Your Needs
So you’ve decided that you want a new espresso machine. Here’s how to think about and approach what can be a daunting, overwhelming process:
Think about what type of coffee drinker you are. If you prefer convenience, then an espresso maker with tons of bells and whistles won’t make sense for you.
Don’t mind having some extra steps to get the perfect cup of coffee? Then a fancier espresso machine will do the trick.
Spend time researching your options. There are many different types of machines available on the market today. To narrow down your search, figure out exactly which features are most important to you.
Read other buyers’ reviews on particular subjects that matter to you. Keep in mind that not all espresso machines are the same. Fancier espresso machines will last longer. They come with more features and advanced technologies.
Before buying, you should base your decision on the features that are most important to you. The best espresso machine for us was the Breville Barista Express. It was our first expensive espresso machine and we never looked back.
Commercial Espresso Machine
Home espresso machines can make excellent espresso. But they aren’t up to commercial quality standards.
Commercial espresso machines are ideal for coffee shops, and food service establishments. They’re usually larger than home models, because they have to meet the demands of high volume. They also have features like a steam wand that allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos.
They can cost between $2000 and up to $30000 depending on the brand, and features. If you’re looking to buy a commercial espresso machine, there are some factors to have in mind.
Consider the size of your establishment and the number of customers you serve on average. You will also want to consider how many drinks your customers order on average. The larger your establishment is, the more likely it is that you will need a larger machine. A device that can handle a greater volume of drink orders each day. If you have an office with only a few employees, then you may not need such a large machine.
For a commercial espresso machine, you should have cost effectiveness in mind. There are many different models available at various price points. Keep in mind that the most expensive one may not necessarily be the best for your needs. It is best to choose something that will last instead of opting for the cheapest available.
Can You Rent an Espresso Machine?
Yes, you can rent an espresso machine. And you’ll need a smaller cash deposit followed by fixed payments per month. For instance, you could spend up to $10,000 to get an espresso device or pay about $300 as a monthly fixed plan for payment.
Or, you can rent a machine for $150 per month. Actually, some renting companies offer espresso machines for renting at even lower prices.
Can You Make Espresso Without an Espresso Machine?
Have you ever wondered if it is possible to make espresso without an espresso machine? Let’s explore the options available to those who wish to create a delicious cup of coffee. You don’t need to have access to a specialized machine with these options.
Are you ready for some real talk about how good your morning brew can be? All in all, making espresso requires a machine. But I have gathered three inexpensive methods of simulating it at home.
The French press is great for beginners who don’t want to spend too much money on espresso brewing. But the results are not always as consistent as one would like.
The AeroPress also produces a decent cup of coffee. But you need to use larger-grained coffee beans and follow some directions correctly. Lastly, there is the moka pot which makes milder tasting espresso. You can use this method in recipes containing milk or other ingredients.
None of these methods will produce exactly what an espresso maker will produce. But they’re all good to use with milk or other ingredients to create unique drinks at home. [9]
The Bottom Line
Do you have the budget to get a good espresso machine? If so, you can look for one in the $600 range. Are you limited to a lower price range? Then I would suggest that you stick at the lower side of $200-$300.
Remember that because something is more expensive does not make it better. Nor does it mean that something cheaper will be inferior. The main idea here is to buy what you as a beginner need, not what others say you need. This allows for a better experience, and prevents buyers remorse.
What To Do Next?
Now you know how much caffeine in a shot of espresso. It’s time for you to brew your own cup of coffee. Searching for espresso beans or any kind of espresso gear? Feel free to read our buyers’ guides and reviews.
