Choosing the right espresso machine under $500 can provide a great balance between affordability and functionality, allowing you to enjoy barista-quality coffee in the comfort of your own home.
Espresso machines in this price range come in various styles, but the key features to consider when purchasing include ease of use, brewing time, and durability. Features such as a built-in grinder, milk frother, or programmable settings could be beneficial depending on your preferences and needs.
Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best espresso machine under $500 tailored to your needs, preferences, and budget.
Our top pick for value for money and overall performance is the De’Longhi Magnifica S.
TOP PICK
BEST PERFORMANCE
EASIEST TO USE
Best Espresso Machines Under $500
Finding the perfect espresso machine can be difficult, but we’ve made it easier. Below is our carefully curated list of the best espresso machines under $500 to suit your needs and budget.
De’Longhi Magnifica S ECAM22.110.B
The De’Longhi Magnifica S is a super-automatic espresso machine that freshly grinds beans and allows users to customize their drinks. At the same time, its thermoblock system heats water precisely for perfect extraction.
It also has a manual milk frother for rich, creamy foam to make cappuccinos and lattes at home easily.
Pros
- High-quality espresso with a built-in grinder
- Customizable aroma and quantity for each recipe
- Easy-to-use manual milk frother for milk-based drinks
Cons
- May require time to fine-tune grinder settings
- Not as compact as some other models
- Removable components are dishwasher-safe, but the machine might need extra care
The De’Longhi Magnifica S ECAM22.110.B is a super-automatic espresso machine with integrated grinding technology that makes brewing coffee simple. The machine grinds the beans fresh before brewing, ensuring a high-quality espresso in every cup. You can customize the aroma and quantity of your coffee, making it perfect for those who enjoy personalizing their beverages.
This espresso machine is equipped with De’Longhi’s Thermoblock system, which heats the water at the ideal temperature for each beverage. This technology ensures you will always enjoy a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
The Magnifica S also features a manual milk frother, making it perfect for those who enjoy cappuccinos and lattes. You can easily create rich, creamy froth for your milk-based drinks with the manual frother.
However, finding the perfect grinder settings for your desired coffee strength may require some experimentation. Additionally, while the removable components are dishwasher-safe, the machine might need extra care to keep it running smoothly.
Gevi 20Bar Semi Automatic Espresso Machine With Grinder & Steam Wand
The Gevi 20Bar Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine is an affordable and versatile choice for home baristas who don’t mind making a few minor adjustments in their coffee-making routine.
If you value convenience, precision, and customizability in your espresso machine, this model could be a fitting option for you.
Pros
- Dual heating system for precise extraction
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 30 settings
- PID temperature control for accuracy
Cons
- Possibly made from lower-quality materials
- No removable grinding container
- Lever may need extra support while pressing
The Gevi 20Bar Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine is designed to provide a complete home barista experience. With its dual heating system, this machine ensures optimal espresso extraction for the perfect cup of coffee.
Its built-in precision conical burr grinder can grind with 30 different settings, enabling you to choose the perfect coarseness for your preferred taste. The PID temperature system offers intelligent temperature control, preventing over-extraction and preserving the coffee flavor.
There is no removable grinding container, so pouring the coffee powder into your coffee pot filter can be cumbersome. The lever on the machine may require additional support while pressing, as the unit may topple towards the lever side.
Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte Maker
If you are looking for a versatile and user-friendly espresso machine under $500, the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ is a solid option.
With its ease of use and compatibility with ESE pods, you can enjoy barista-quality beverages in the comfort of your own home.
Pros
- Intuitive one-touch control for easy drink selection
- Large-capacity milk reservoir for multiple cappuccinos or lattes
- Compatible with ESE pods for convenient brewing
Cons
- Milk frother can be loud during operation
- Some plastic components may feel less durable
- Limited clearance for taller cups
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte Maker effortlessly brings the coffee shop experience to your home. With its modern design and one-touch interface, you can quickly create single or double shots of espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes without fuss.
One impressive feature of this espresso machine is its intuitive one-touch control panel, which makes selecting your preferred drink a breeze. Press a button, and the machine will take care of the rest. Additionally, the progress bar provides helpful feedback on the brewing process so you know when your drink is ready.
The large 18 oz. milk reservoir allows you to make multiple beverages without needing to refill, and it’s removable for easy cleaning and storage. Plus, the machine is compatible with Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods, offering convenience and eliminating the mess or guesswork that comes with traditional coffee grounds.
While the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ has many great features, there are a few drawbacks. The milk frother can be quite loud during operation, which may bother some users. It might not accommodate taller cups easily due to limited clearance.
Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Grinder
The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine offers consistent espresso and milk drinks at home with its integrated grinder, 15-bar pump, PID temperature control and powerful steam wand, while its thermoblock heating and 58mm portafilter ensure optimal extraction for robust flavor.
It provides an affordable yet full-featured option for customized coffee making with 30 grind settings and easy use.
Pros
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 30 adjustable grind settings
- PID temperature control and thermoblock heating for consistent taste
- Café-sized 58mm portafilter for robust flavor
Cons
- Some users may find the dial not as intuitive as digital options
- Plastic and stainless exterior may not have a premium feel
- There is a potential need to reprogram settings when adjusting grind size and amount
The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Grinder is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable espresso machine with a built-in grinder and steam wand. The 15-bar Italian pump ensures maximum flavor extraction, and the integrated conical burr mill grinder offers 30 adjustable grind settings so you can customize your coffee to your preference.
The Temp iQ system utilizes thermoblock heating technology and PID temperature control, heating the water evenly during the espresso extraction and gently pre-infusing the grounds to ensure a consistently great-tasting espresso. The 58mm café-sized portafilter holds more grounds and guarantees even water dispersion and extraction for your desired robust flavor.
The powerful steam wand makes it easy to create creamy froth and microfoam milk for cappuccinos, lattes, and other espresso-based drinks. The removable 2.8-liter water reservoir simplifies filling, and the cup warming tray prepares your cups for serving.
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro
The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is a fantastic investment for those seeking a high-quality espresso machine under $500 with essential features and prosumer performance.
Remember its unique 58mm compatibility and potential boiler maintenance, but rest assured that you’ll be brewing delicious espresso with this robust, Italian-made machine.
Pros
- Made in Italy with solid steel housing
- 9 Bar espresso extractions for premium quality shots
- Commercial-grade steam wand and 58mm portafilter
Cons
- It may require some learning curve for beginners
- Not compatible with standard 58mm accessories
- Potential for scale buildup in the boiler
The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is a made-in-Italy espresso machine designed to bring café-quality drinks into your home. With its 9 bars of extraction pressure, you can easily pull flavorful shots of espresso. Its stainless steel 58mm commercial portafilter and commercial three-way solenoid valve promise a lasting and high-quality brewing experience.
This espresso machine also comes with a commercial steam wand, allowing you to create velvety microfoam for latte art or to steam milk for creamy cappuccinos. The Classic Evo Pro boasts solid steel housing, ensuring a durable machine built to withstand daily use.
One drawback for new users may be the initial learning curve required to master this machine’s capabilities. The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro does not accommodate standard 58mm accessories. Scale buildup in the boiler is another concern, as it may necessitate more frequent descaling and maintenance.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is a fantastic option for espresso lovers seeking a compact, user-friendly appliance that delivers exceptional taste.
While it may lack some additional features, its performance and design more than make up for any limitations.
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Even coffee extraction for rich flavor
- User-friendly operation
Cons
- Lacks additional included accessories
- Light-weight portafilter materials
- It may require a separate steam wand tip cleaning tool
The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for those desiring a high-quality espresso while saving countertop space. Its advanced brewing technology ensures an even extraction process, resulting in a luxurious crema-topped cup of espresso with well-balanced flavors.
Despite its compact size, the Bambino boasts a brushed stainless steel exterior, giving it a sleek and modern appearance. It is suitable for home and office use, and its semi-automatic operation mode makes brewing espresso simple.
One limitation of the Bambino is the absence of additional accessories, such as a steam wand tip cleaning tool. It may also be worth noting that some users report dissatisfaction with the lightweight materials used in the portafilter. However, these minor drawbacks do not detract from this espresso machine’s overall quality and performance.
You can also buy a great espresso machine for under $200
Buying Guide
When looking for the best espresso machine under $500, consider the following factors to make a wise choice that suits your needs and preferences.
Type of Espresso Machine
There are three main types of espresso machines: manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic.
- Manual machines give you the most control over the brewing process but require a certain skill level.
- Semi-automatic machines offer a balance between control and convenience.
- Fully automatic machines take care of everything, making them the easiest to use.
Size and Design
Consider your available counter space and the overall design of the espresso machine. Smaller models are more portable, but may not have all the features of larger machines. Ensure the machine fits your kitchen’s style and complements your existing appliances.
Features and Customization
Some espresso machines have various features, such as built-in grinders, programmable settings, and milk frothers. These options can be convenient, but they may also increase the cost of the machine. Think about the most important features to you and your coffee preferences.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep your espresso machine in good condition. Look for a machine that is easy to clean and has removable parts for thorough cleaning. Some models have built-in cleaning cycles or signals to remind you when it’s time for maintenance.
Budget
Set a budget for your espresso machine purchase and look for a model that fits within that range, between $200 and $500. Remember that pricier models offer more features, but a lower-priced machine might still provide a great espresso experience.
Considering these factors, you can find the perfect espresso machine without breaking the bank. Happy brewing!
My name is JP and I am an avid coffee lover. Since I began college and realized what a heavy load writing majors took on, I have been a fan of the bean juice.
My job took me all over the US on book tours and press conferences, and my favorite part about the trip was exploring the best places to grab my cup of Joe.
