Top 7 Best Espresso Machines Under $1000 2024 Reviews

The term "espresso" refers to the quick extraction of coffee's flavor, which is why the drink was given that name. It's important to have a machine that can handle the demands of a busy family or workplace (pun intended).

In the process of creating this article, we researched many different models before settling on this list of the best espresso machines that cost less than $1,000. We expected that high-priced machines would be ready for heavy-duty environments.

So, we searched for machines with at least 1200W of power, so they could handle a heavy workload with ease. We also made sure to only pick machines with large enough hopper capacities, as having to constantly refill them might get tiresome.

The Best Espresso Machines Under 1000 Dollars Reviews

1. Breville Barista Touch - Editor’s Choice

The Breville Barista Touch is the best home espresso maker on the market. Both the brushed stainless steel and black truffle finishes available for this espresso machine contribute to its well-defined style. It is a small appliance that can be placed in a variety of kitchens due to its 14.5′′ x 16.7′′ x 17.6′′ dimensions.

Because of the coffee maker's user-friendly touch-screen display, you can quickly and easily adjust the machine to your desired brewing settings.

With only a few short seconds of your time and the machine's five pre-programmed coffee menus, you can have delicious coffee. And since it can remember up to eight different brew settings, you won't have to fiddle with the settings every time you want to make your favorite espresso.

Since the 67-ounce water tank can produce 8 cups of espresso before needing to be refilled, and since the ThermoJet heating system cuts heat-up time to only 3 seconds, you won't have to wait long at all for your espresso.

PID digital temperature control technology that maintains a consistent temperature during extraction, a 2-year repair warranty, and an automatic steam wand for adjusting milk temperature and texture are all noteworthy.

Dimensions: 14.5″ x 16.7″ x 17.6″

Bean hopper: 5 lbs

Water tank: 67 oz

Power: 1680 W

Warranty: 2-year repair guarantee

More features: 5 programs, 8 coffee settings, programmable milk temperature, touch screen, BPA free water tank

2. Gaggia Anima - Easiest to Use Espresso Machine Under $1000

A pre-brewing system in the Gaggia Anima ensures that every shot of espresso is perfectly brewed, whether you use whole beans or pre-ground coffee. The secret is to delay the brewing process just a little bit after the water has touched the beans. This slight delay allows for maximum flavor soaking.

In addition, the machine has an automatic cleaning system, which begins a rinsing cycle as soon as you turn it on or off. This makes sure that each extraction yields an authentic flavor and aroma.

Also, after making an espresso with milk, you can quickly and easily clean the milk circuit with the help of a dedicated system. You can simply and quickly make your preferred espresso with milk options thanks to the machine's built-in double-chamber milk carafe.

Adjusting the settings is a breeze thanks to the straightforward interface and an LCD display. You may change the temperature to one of the three supported levels, and choose from one of six different program settings and five different grinder options. The brew group is detachable, allowing for thorough cleaning.

Unfortunately, we discovered that the brewing machine would stop working if the water indicator light was on, even though there was enough water in the tank. Adding water will fix the problem, but then you'll have to start the brewing process all over again. When you're in a hurry, this might be frustrating.

Dimensions: 8.7’’ x 13.3’’ x 16.9’’

Bean hopper: 5 lbs

Water tank: 8 oz

Power: 1850 W

Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: LCD, 6 drinks option, 5 grinder settings, 16.9 oz milk carafe capacity, automatic rinsing cycle, pre-brewing system

3. Breville BES870XL Barista Express - Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Under $1000

For heavy daily use by many individuals, the Breville Barista is an excellent choice for a busy household or workplace. The 67-ounce water tank means you can make many espresso shots before having to refill the tank.

The Breville Barista's integrated grinder ensures that the perfect amount of beans are ground for each beverage. You can choose between a single shot and a double shot by adjusting the settings. A digital temperature control system maintains a constant, ideal temperature for the water reaching the beans, allowing for optimum extraction and a full taste profile.

The strength of your espresso can be adjusted using the grinder settings. You can change the grain size by turning the grind size dial.

Many coffee connoisseurs will appreciate the accessories that come with this machine. You also receive a milk jug, cleaning tablets, a cleaning brush, a tool, an Allen key, a water filter, and a water filter holder in addition to the scoop and tamper.

All things considered, this espresso machine lived up to our expectations. However, we discovered that the grinder made an odd noise every time we turned it on. We don't know what this means, but it didn't affect the machine's performance.

Dimensions: 15.8″ x 12.6″ x 13.2″

Bean hopper: 5 lbs

Water tank: 67 oz

Power: 1600 W

Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: digital temperature control, hands-free operation, adjustable grind amount, automatic water temperature adjustment

4. De'Longhi Nespresso Lattissima - Best Capsule Espresso Machine Under $1000

Upon first using the De'Longhi Nespresso Lattissima, the most obvious conclusion is that it was designed to save users time and effort while making espresso.

The process is easy to understand, and the machine completes its task quickly. All you have to do is put the capsule into the machine, adjust the settings, and then press a button to have your espresso dispensed and the capsule ejected.

The thermoblock heating system quickly heats the machine, reducing the waiting time to seconds. The patented extraction method developed by De'Longhi maintains the ideal serving temperature in every cup even as it extracts the maximum concentration of flavor at 19 bars of pressure. There are 10 capsules in the container, so you can make a lot of coffee before you need to refill.

It features a memory function for seven options, including hot water and five preprogrammed coffee options. In cases where you'd prefer not to make espresso, the hot water feature comes in handy. Instead of boiling water in a separate device, you can just use the capsule machine to get hot water.

During the extraction process, the carafe dispenses milk at adjustable levels, allowing you to choose the amount of milk used in your drink. The milk carafe holds 12 ounces of milk.

The automatic cleaning system, shut-off, and flow-stopping functionality are also very useful additions. Thanks to these automated systems, you can make the perfect espresso shot with less effort and no waste. A two-year limited warranty ensures that you will always have access to technical support.

Dimensions: 12.5’’ x 6.6’’ x 10.2’’

Used container: 10 capsules

Water tank: 30 oz

Power: 1200 W

Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: 10 pound weight, flow stop, automatic shut-off function, automatic cleaning system, 19 bar pump pressure

5. Flair Signature - Best Manual Espresso Machine Under $1000

The Flair Signature is a stunning addition to your kitchen since it is a stylish, little manual machine. It has a removable head and is just 12′′ x 6′′ x 10′′, making it compact enough to fit on a trolley when not in use. Stainless steel and aluminum make up its whole frame, making this an enduring appliance.

The manufacturer provides a 5-year limited warranty, but considering the quality of construction and materials, you'll most certainly continue to use this espresso machine long after the warranty time has expired.

It weighs about 7 pounds, making it extremely portable. The only catch is that a burr grinder is required to grind the beans. For your espresso, you also need to bring a second pot of water to a boil.

When making coffee, the best flavor comes from grinding the beans just before use. You must also use water that has been quickly boiled between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. This necessitates forethought on your part to prepare the water and coffee beans for brewing at the appropriate times. If you start this process too soon, the espresso's taste will suffer.

The amount of water that can fit in the Flair cylinder is 60 ml. A 45-ml shot of espresso requires 13–18 g of coffee and 6–10 bar of lever pressure. A single shot can be taken out in 30-45 seconds.

That's really good for a machine that has to be run by hand.

Dimensions: 12″ x 6″ x 10″

Weight: 7 lb

Water tank: 2 oz

Input weight: 6 oz

Warranty: 5-year limited

More features: detachable brewing head, 2-in-1 portafilter, up to 10 bar lever pressure

6. EspressoWorks All-In-One Espresso Machine & Cappuccino Maker - Budget Pick

Everything you need to make your favorite espresso is included in the EspressoWorks All-In-One Espresso Machine Set: a plug-in electric grinder, two portafilters, a stainless steel frothing cup, a tamper, a measuring scoop, and two espresso cups.

The espresso maker and the grinder both need a standard 120-volt outlet. Coffee beans are at their most flavorful when ground soon before use. There are three options available on the dial: "Off," "Espresso," and "Steam."

Because only one task can be completed at a time, you will not be able to steam milk while simultaneously preparing an espresso. However, you can pour two shots at the same time. Two filters, one for single shots and one for double shots, are included.

The manufacturer claims a 15-bar system, but the espresso just comes out slowly. If you're only planning on making one or two shots of espresso, this shouldn't be an issue. But the lengthy process might get annoying if you have to prepare dozens of them.

The water tank can hold 42.2 ounces, and its see-through design makes it easy to keep track of how much water is left. In the event that you become preoccupied with other things and neglect to check the water level over time, LED indicators will warn you. A one-year limited warranty is included.

Dimensions: 9.75″ x 9″ x 11.5″

Bean hopper: not specified

Water tank: 2 oz

Power: 1350 W

Set: stainless steel portafilter, stainless steel milk frothing cup, tamper and measuring spoon, 2 porcelain cups, electric bean grinder

Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: 15 bar pump pressure, removable drip trail, LED indicators, thermoblock heating system, built-in steamer

7. Jura 13626 Ena Micro 1 - Best Compact Espresso Machine Under $1000

The Jura Ena Micro 1 espresso machine is a beauty that makes excellent espresso every time, making it ideal for a single user who needs only a single shot to get them through the day. The only issue is whether you prefer to drink espresso throughout the day.

Because the water tank only holds 38.6 oz., you'll probably get tired of having to fill it up so often. Another thing to keep in mind is that its maximum bean capacity is only 0.2 lb, which is far lower than that of most espresso machines.

Aside from that, there are a lot of great features in this little device, such as the two different aroma levels. That's correct. That indescribable aroma of freshly brewed coffee is now within your reach.

With its responsive touch panel and six brew options, this espresso machine is a breeze to use. The machine's energy efficiency is maximized by both its energy-saving mode and its innovative zero-energy switch.

Its small footprint (17.5 inches by 12.7 inches by 9.1 inches) makes it a good fit for kitchens of any size. Because of this, carrying the machine is simple and convenient. A limited warranty of two years is included.

For coffee connoisseurs whose first task upon waking is to brew a cup of coffee, this espresso machine is a must-have for the home. It might be helpful in offices and other small businesses that service their employees and clients.

Dimensions: 17.5’’ x 12.7’’ x 9.1’’

Bean hopper: 2 lbs

Water tank: 8 oz

Power: 1200 W

Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: energy-saving mode, 3.6 ft cable, symbol display, TÜV-certified, cleaning programs

How do you choose the best espresso machine from the numerous available models? 

In the following, we'll provide some information to help you grasp the situation. Here, we'll run you through what to look for in an espresso machine, address some of the questions you might have, and share some maintenance advice.

What to expect from an espresso machine under 1000 dollars?

Low- and medium-range espresso machines can be found for under $1,000. No, they won't have all the fancy extras that come with more expensive models, but neither will they feel or look cheap. A few of the features such a machine may have are listed below.

Most include a built-in grinder, which eliminates the need to purchase a separate appliance only to grind your coffee beans. Some may only have standalone grinders, in which case you'll need to grind the beans elsewhere before adding them to the portafilter.

If you want to prepare lattes or other espresso drinks that call for milk, you'll need a machine that has a steamer and frothing wand.

Espresso machine maintenance tips

You can count on using the machine for many years if you get one of the high-quality models we've discussed above. Plus, if you take good care of it, you can put off the inevitable failures that come with regular use. If you need some guidance, consider the following:

• Always clean the portafilter with a damp cloth after each usage.
• Once you're done using the steam/frothing wand, be sure to empty it.
• After each day's use, backflush the machine to remove any debris that may have accumulated in the unit, as directed by the manufacturer.
• To keep a detachable brewing unit in good condition, remove and clean it on a regular basis.
• Only clean your machine with detergent made specifically for espresso machines. Powders and tablets designed for this purpose are widely available.
• If you use unfiltered or hard water, descale your espresso machine on a regular basis. Descaling once a year should be plenty if you use filtered or soft water.

Price tag

Espresso machines with more features and more complex built-in technology can be found for between $700 and $1000 in the under $1000 price range.

Mid-range ones cost between $300 and $500; they may lack the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they're made to last.

At the low end, we consider espresso machines under $300 to be inexpensive. 

As you'd expect, there are some impressive designs in this category as well, and the vast majority of them can produce excellent espresso.

Features to consider while buying the best espresso machine under $1000

Let's take a look at each element of an espresso machine and see what role it performs in the machine.

Machines type

There are three primary types of espresso machines:

Manual espresso machines

If you want to make espresso like a true coffee connoisseur, you need an espresso machine that is operated manually. There are no digital controls or automatic features. In this way, you make each espresso shot to your liking by hand-mixing the ingredients.

They are more expensive than their automated counterparts, but their durability and high quality make them worth the investment. If ingredients are mixed correctly, they can produce some delicious shots, and most machines of this type provide simple ways for doing so, like with Flair Signature.

Semi-automatic espresso machines

Because of the mix of manual and electric parts, this model is far more user-friendly than a completely manual espresso machine while still providing you some control over the brewing process.

The majority of them can be found for between $200 and $500, making them more affordable.

Full-automatic espresso machines

These espresso makers are incredibly user-friendly because they are totally automatic. However, being a watcher also means you have no control over the shots. The best of them cost several thousand dollars, but you can buy decent ones for less than $1,000.

Machine size

One of the first things to think about when looking for a new espresso machine is how much space it will take up in your kitchen. Is there room for a big machine in your kitchen, or do you just have a couple of inches to go with? These machines are available in a variety of sizes, making it simple to find one that will meet your requirements.

Beans and water capacity

A water reservoir of 50–70 ounces is recommended if you plan to use the machine repeatedly throughout the day or if many people will be making espresso on a daily basis. This quantity of water can make 6–8 espresso cups, so you won't have to keep stopping to re-fill the water reservoir.

While most bean hoppers can carry around 0.5 oz. of beans, some may be slightly larger or smaller. Machines like the Jura Ena Micro 1 have a smaller bean capacity, but since they're meant for a single user, this isn't an issue. A smaller bean capacity indicates the machine will need to be refilled more frequently if there are several users or a single heavy user.

Grinder

To prepare your espresso, you can either use a machine that has a built-in grinder or a machine that requires a separate, stand-alone grinder. There is no need to worry about this step because fully automatic espresso machines have a grinder already integrated.

You'll need to buy a grinder separately for semi-automatic machines. Again, this will take more room, so make sure you have enough counter space before making this decision.

Temperature regulation

Digital temperature control technology is used in the best espresso machines to maintain a constant water temperature throughout the brewing process. A change in water temperature will alter the flavor of your espresso.

The flavor of the beans will be affected if the water temperature varies as it flows over them. A device that automatically adjusts the temperature can help prevent this from happening.

Programs

The programming option allows you to personalize the espresso machine. The more advanced models allow for several users to each have their own temperature preferences, descaling preferences, timer settings, and automatic on/off features.

Each machine offers a different degree of programmability and flexibility; knowing exactly what adjustments you need before beginning your search will help you choose the best option. 

It's important to remember that the more features an espresso machine has, the more it will cost.

Filtration

You can opt for either a pressurized or non-pressurized portafilter. Tamping is taken care of by a pressurized portafilter, which also ensures uniformity. Even with a mediocre grinder, a pressurized portafilter will produce espresso with a smooth, balanced flavor. This filtering method is ideal for the lazy coffee lover who wants to whip up their espresso treat as quickly as possible.

If you're using a portafilter that doesn't use pressure, it's on you to get the grind size and consistency just right and to tamp the coffee in the filter so that it's completely compressed. This is a great choice for espresso connoisseurs who want to develop their craft.

Milk option

You probably won't give much thought to whether or not your espresso machine can steam milk if you're simply interested in drinking shots or double shots of espresso.

Choose an espresso machine with an excellent frothing wand and boiler system if you want your espresso with milk beverages such as lattes, cappuccinos, and other variations.

Coffee-making time

The topic at hand is the time required for espresso extraction, so let's get down to it. You'd be wildly off if you tried to convert this to minutes.

A cup of espresso can be made in a short amount of time. The optimal preparation time for a single shot of coffee, using 13–18 grams of freshly ground and tamped beans, is around 20 seconds. It would take no more than 25–35 seconds to down a double shot. The extraction time for even manual espresso machines like the Flair Signature is about 30 to 45 seconds.

Bean grinding adds time to the overall preparation process for machines like the EspressoWorks All-In-One Espresso Machine Set that don't include a built-in grinder.

Drip pan

This pan-like or tray-like component sits just below the portafilter, and it goes by the name "drip tray." Its function is to collect rinse water and any other excess from the machine. The drip pans of the best espresso machines are made of steel, whereas those of the less expensive machines are made of plastic.

Drip pans should be emptied and cleaned often to prevent the growth of bacteria in the area beneath the machine. Cleaning the machine's drip pan after each use will prevent this from happening, even if you only use it infrequently.

Warranty

The vast majority of espresso machines under $1000 have a 1- or 2-year limited warranty. Manual espresso machines, on the other hand, often have a 5-year warranty. If you're looking to spend a lot of money on a piece of equipment, it's important to know what's included in the warranty.

Espresso making tips—every cup is a joy

Getting the perfect espresso requires careful attention to grind, dosage, and temperature. This may seem difficult at first, but with some experimenting, you'll figure out a method that works. Play around with different varieties of each as you gain experience as a barista to create different tastes and flavors.

It all starts with how you store your coffee. If you want to keep your beans fresh for as long as possible, it's best to buy them as soon as possible, then store them in a dark, dry place.

You need to try out several grind sizes to discover the one that gives you the best extraction time (25–35 seconds). If the extract dribbles out slowly instead of pouring, you have a finer grind than necessary.

The grind size is too coarse if it's moving too quickly. Choose a high-quality grinder that offers minuscule adjustment options for the grind size until you get the ideal consistency. The recommended dose for each extraction is 18 grams to ensure uniformity.

Espresso should be brewed between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. You can get your machine to operate inside that range by adjusting the temperature. A single-boiler machine may just need a flushing technique, whereas more complex machines may require a digital reset.

After you've mastered them, try out additional twists on each to find your favorite flavors!

FAQs

What is the difference between the coffee maker and espresso machine?

Brewing techniques are where the two styles really diverge from one another. Coarsely ground coffee beans are infused with hot water in a coffee machine. Here, it takes in the oils and flavors of the beans before going down, through a filter, and into a container. This method often requires fewer coffee beans than other methods, more water, and less pressure to extract the coffee's flavor.

It takes around 30 seconds for an espresso machine to pressurize a small amount of hot water near boiling temperature through finely ground coffee beans. What you get is an extract that's richer and more delicious than what you'd receive from a coffee maker.

Should I descale an espresso machine, and how often?

In a word, yes. If you have filtered water, you can reduce the frequency of this task. If filtered, you simply need to descale occasionally, like once a year, to remove the accumulation that occurs over time.

You should descale the machine every two months if you use unfiltered water or once a month if you use it often. Most up-to-date espresso machines have a descaling reminder on the machine's control panel. You should check it every month or every two months if yours doesn't have this indicator.

What is an espresso machine for home use?

Gaggia Anima for automatic machines. Find out more about how this espresso machine can be personalized to your preferences despite its small size and ease of use by reading our reviews. If you want to make a single cup of coffee by hand, you can use the Flair Signature.

Our Verdict

The Breville Barista Touch is our top pick for espresso machines under $1000. The compact, space-saving design and pristine construction really impressed us.

We appreciate the variety of pre-set café options and the ability to save up to eight individual preferences. The machine's user-friendly touch panel and advanced temperature control technology also stood out to us.