To find the best home espresso machine, the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Technology Lab tested a mix of super-automatic, automatic, semi-automatic, and capsule machines, which we selected based on popular brands, best-selling machines, and unique attributes. Some had milk frothers and some didn't. We evaluated each on ease of use, time to brew, consistency, taste, and how loud they were. Our favorites were the super-automatic and automatic machines that were easy to set up, simple to use, and didn’t require a user manual (although we didn’t mind referring to the easy-to-read ones). We also gave preference to the machines that heated up quickly and didn’t require a lot of waiting around. The best machines produced a hot, smooth cup of espresso that had depth and wasn't too bitter or acidic, with crema that was smooth without any noticeable big or small air bubbles. Overall, we think these are the best espresso machines to buy in 2020:
VertuoPlus
First, we love how easy the Nespresso VertuoPlus is to use. The lid opens and closes with one touch of the lever, and you can start brewing with the touch of a single button. You also won't accidentally use the wrong pod: The capsule machine uses a special system to detect the barcode on the capsule and then brews it exactly how it’s supposed to brew. Choose from five drink types, including espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug, and alto (perfect for your travel mugs). In our tests, every cup of coffee came out hot and rounded with a luxurious crema. We also like that the position of the water tank can be moved around to accommodate any size counter space. Another noteworthy perk is that Nespresso recycles used pods if you send them back to the company. Finally, you can't beat the price.
Ultima Pro
When it comes to traditional espresso machines, this one is a great value — it's very easy to use and makes a smooth cup of espresso with a perfect crema, comparable to one of the most expensive automatic machines we tested. It features buttons for double espresso, hot water, and steam (used to steam and froth milk with the attached steam wand). It can also be programmed to brew an espresso larger or smaller than the 1.5 oz default (the larger the espresso, the more mild the flavor and vice versa).
This machine's most unique feature is hidden below the lid — a holder for the included coffee-measuring spoon and extra coffee filter. While the water tank is small compared to other espresso machines, we consider this a pro because it encourages you to change the water more often, which means fresher tasting espresso.
K-Cafe Coffee Maker
If you’re looking for a Keurig upgrade, a special gift, or the option to mindlessly froth milk, look no further than the Keurig K-Cafe. Four coffee size options (6 oz., 8 oz., 10 oz., and 12 oz.), plus a “strong” option make it easy to enjoy your favorite K-cup exactly how you like it. Add in an Espresso Roast K-cup capsule and a “shot” size option and you’re well on your way to making a fine cup of espresso, too.
While the Espresso Roast K-cup doesn’t quite deliver on crema, a built-in coffee frother allows you to froth milk quickly and easily for cappuccinos (less milk) and lattes (more milk); plus, there’s also a “cold” option if you’d like to enjoy your frothy milk drink over ice. In our tests, this capsule machine was very consistent when it came to preheat time, brew time, coffee temperature, and volume.
SmallEspresso
Besides being aesthetically pleasant with its modern and slick design, This portable espresso coffee maker contains an ingenious core, the semi-automatic piston. Unlock it from its carrying position and press it at will to control the amount of extracted coffee.
SmallEspresso™ doesn't require compressed air, N2O cartridges or electricity for its operation. Hand operated, you are free to prepare coffee drinks that you love. Water tanks of different capacities are available so you can enjoy multiple espresso types, ranging from ristretto to caffè lungo.
La Specialista
This automatic espresso machine delivers a cup of espresso that's as fancy as it looks; plus, it’s easy to use and adjust based on your preference. Choose from six grind sizes (fine for dark espresso, coarse for coffee), then select single espresso, double espresso, Americano, or coffee. It also dispenses hot water for tea.
La Specialista has a built-in tamping mechanism, which helps pack your grounds perfectly, and a pressure gauge you can monitor to ensure you're making the perfect cup. It also has an adjustable steam wand that can be used for flat (best for lattes) or foamy (best for cappuccinos) milk. We loved the full-body espresso it produced, with a thin, silky crema. A knock box for used grounds can be bought separately, which we found very useful when making espresso after espresso.