Best Espresso Machine Under 200: Top Picks for Budget Coffee Lovers in 2024

Espresso machines are a must-have for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy café-quality espresso at home. The market offers a wide range of options, making finding the perfect machine that fits your taste and budget is challenging. You are in the right place if you’re looking for the best espresso machine under $200.

Espresso machines come in various types and sizes, and understanding their differences is essential when deciding which one to purchase. When selecting an espresso machine, consider factors such as ease of use, brewing time, the capacity of the water reservoir, build quality, material, and durability to ensure it lasts for years to come.

The best espresso machines under $200 should deliver excellent performance and reliability, even on a budget. A worthy investment should also be user-friendly and compatible with your preferred coffee beans or pods.

Our top pick for value for money and overall performance is the De’Longhi Stilosa.

Best Espresso Machines Under $200

Considering these critical factors, we have researched and tested various espresso machines to help you narrow your options and find the most suitable one for your home. So, let’s dive into the best espresso machines under $200 that won’t break the bank but will surely wake up your senses.

We have compiled a list of what we consider to be the best espresso machines under $200. These budget-friendly options offer excellent value and help craft your desired coffee experience.

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The De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for those who want to make espresso without breaking the bank. This compact and stylish machine easily fits on your kitchen countertop and allows you to create delicious espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos in the comfort of your own home.

With a 15-bar pump, you can achieve the optimal pressure for rich and flavorful espresso extraction.

One of the Stilosa’s standout features is its manual milk frother, which lets you create the perfect milk texture for your lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites. You’ll need to practice your frothing technique to get your desired consistency, but once mastered, it opens up a world of customization and creativity in your coffee drinks.

The Stilosa is designed with a durable stainless steel boiler for consistent performance and longevity. The machine also has an ergonomically designed portafilter, a separate tamper, and filters for single or double espresso.

However, the Stilosa requires maintenance and cleaning to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. The process can be time-consuming for some users, but it’s essential for preserving the machine’s performance and lifespan.

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With its one-touch operation, the SOWTECH Espresso Coffee Machine provides a simple, user-friendly experience for all ages. Its original coffee-making system ensures the controllability of the coffee liquid, allowing you to create a thick, silky espresso using the included graduated carafes.

The machine’s milk frother is designed (using whole milk) to create silky, dense milk froth, making it easy to become your own cappuccino and latte expert. Complete with a short anti-burn tube on the milk froth tube for safety, and you can craft your drinks confidently.

With an aesthetically pleasing, small and lightweight design, this espresso machine doesn’t sacrifice functionality for its compact size. It is durable and low noise, making it suitable for any home.

However, some users have mentioned certain drawbacks, such as the lack of automatic shutoff, difficulty maneuvering the steamer nozzle, and the requirement to brew at least two shots simultaneously.

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One of the standout features of the Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine is the Centrifusion technology, which utilizes barcodes to deliver the best in-cup results – including the perfect crema for larger coffee cups.

With a fast heat-up time of just 15 seconds, you won’t have to wait long to enjoy your freshly brewed beverage. The 40 oz. removable water tank and a 17-count used capsule container contribute to its ease of use and maintainability.

The bundled Nespresso Aeroccino3 milk frother is another noteworthy aspect of this espresso machine. You can create smooth hot or cold milk froth with one touch to enhance your coffee recipes. The frother works with all types of milk, offering even more customization for your at-home coffee experience.

Remember that the Nespresso VertuoPlus is designed for use with Nespresso Vertuo capsules only, which may limit your selection of coffee options. Additionally, you may need to adjust the grind size and amount for optimal brewing results.

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De’Longhi’s Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine brings the experience of your favorite coffee house into your home. With an advanced cappuccino system that mixes and steams milk for rich, creamy, and evenly textured drinks, you will impress your guests and treat yourself to high-quality espresso beverages.

The 15-bar pump ensures that each shot of espresso is consistent and strong, while the double-layer drip tray and removable water tank make for easy cleanup. You’ll appreciate the durability and stylish design of the stainless steel housing, which accents any kitchen counter beautifully.

However, some users have noted that the machine can be noisy when using the milk frother, and others have mentioned concerns with the heating capabilities, meaning your beverages may not be as hot as you’d like. Additionally, some customers have reported package and shipping concerns, so you may want to monitor your specific order when purchasing.

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The CASABREWS Espresso Coffee Machine allows you to enjoy espresso-based drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos at home without breaking the bank. This versatile machine boasts a 20-bar professional pump system, making it capable of producing rich, aromatic espresso with a beautiful crema.

With a built-in milk frother, you can easily create creamy, frothy milk to top off your favorite beverages. The powerful steam wand is great for creating latte art or making your drink more visually appealing. This small, stainless steel espresso machine adds a touch of style to your kitchen and is ideal for homes or offices with limited space.

Some users have mentioned that the espresso may not be as hot as desired. However, this could be due to personal preference or potentially resolved through preheating the machine. Additionally, beginners may need some practice to achieve the best results. It’s important to note that the lid for the water reservoir might be fragile, so handle it carefully.

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The Gevi 20 Bar High-Pressure Espresso Machine is affordable for those seeking a quality espresso machine under $200. With its 1350W power and advanced thermoblock fast heating system, you can enjoy making a good coffee in just 45 seconds.

The 20-bar pressure system ensures a fragrant and rich espresso. In contrast, the adjustable espresso amount feature allows you to choose between one shot, double shots, or manually control the amount.

However, some users have mentioned that the milk frother can be difficult to control and may not get hot enough. Additionally, a few buyers report weak coffee results from the machine. It may require some finesse and experimentation with settings to achieve the desired taste and strength.

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Are you looking for a more expensive option? Check out our guide to the best espresso coffee machines under $500.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best espresso machine under $200, it’s essential to consider a few key factors that will ensure you make an informed decision.

Types of Espresso Machines

To find the best budget espresso machine, you need to consider the different types of espresso machines. Each type comes with its own set of features and functionalities. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the main types, such as manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic machines.

• Manual models provide the most control over brewing variables but require a steep learning curve.
• Semi-automatic machines strike a balance between manual control and automation.
• Fully automatic options offer the most convenience with minimal input.

Brewing Features

The brewing process can vary between models, so it’s essential to consider the features that will best suit your needs. Look for options like adjustable water temperature, pressure settings, and pre-infusion, which can all impact the quality of your espresso.

Build Quality and Design

A well-built espresso machine ensures longevity and durability. Please pay attention to the materials used in construction, such as stainless steel or brass components, as they are typically more durable. The design should also be user-friendly and easy to clean.

Size and Storage

As you may have limited kitchen counter space, evaluate the size of the machine to ensure it fits your available area. Compact designs usually save precious room without sacrificing performance.

Additional Features

Some espresso machines have extra features that enhance your coffee-making experience, such as a built-in grinder, milk frother, or programmable settings. These options can save time and simplify the brewing process, so consider your priorities when choosing a machine.

Remember to consider these factors when searching for the perfect espresso machine for your needs, ensuring that you get the best value for your budget.