15 Best Espresso Machines Under $500 (Better Espresso Value)

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Photo of a Mr.Coffee a Gevi and a Lavazza espresso machines. Best Espresso Machines Under $500.

Quality is a priority when it comes to buying an espresso machine for home use because the quality of the machine dictates the quality of your espresso.

You may think a less expensive option means low quality and minimal durability, but you will be surprised at what you can find in espresso machines that are within your budget.

Having a budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for anything less than the best. It just means you need to know where to look and what to look for. Save some time and check out the rest of this article for suggestions on the best espresso machines under $500.

Best Fully Automatic
Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine (Best Fully Automatic)
Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine
Super-automatic espresso machine with push-button controls, LED display, milk-frother, easy cleaning, adaptable grinder, and 1-year warranty. Great for versatile brewing, but has small reservoir and cup space. See Product
Best Semi-Automatic
Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine (Best Semi-Automatic)
Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine
Gaggia Classic Pro, a compact stainless steel espresso machine, features a commercial steam wand, portafilter with multiple baskets, quick heat-up, minimal noise, and a 3-switch control panel. See Product
Best with Grinder
Gevi Professional Espresso Machine (Best with Grinder)
Gevi Professional Espresso Machine
Gevi espresso machine offers 20-bar pressure, crema-rich espresso, built-in pressure gauge, adjustable steam wand, hot water, and includes grinder, shot glasses, chambers, spoon, brush, tamper, and frothing jug. See Product
Best with Frother
Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine Best with Frother
Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine
15-bar pump espresso machine with thermoblock heating, PID temperature control, dial interface, removable 2L reservoir, cup warmer, and frothing wand for perfect crema and taste. See Product
Best Capsule
Lavazza Capsule Coffee Machine Best Capsule
Lavazza Capsule Coffee Machine
Lavazza capsule coffee machine offers multi-use options, includes milk frother, 32-capsules, extra vessel, compact design, and standby mode for convenience. See Product
Best Manual
Flair Espresso Maker Pro 2 Best Manual
Flair Espresso Maker Pro 2
The Flair Espresso Maker is a fully-manual, high-quality, portable system with a stainless steel pressure gauge, plunger, screen, spout, and portafilter, making it perfect for trips and easy cleaning. See Product

Why Get Your Own Espresso Machine?

Consider how many times you have espresso in a day. A recent study reported that most respondents admit to drinking multiple cups of coffee at home each day.

Most espresso drinkers have at least two shots of espresso daily, if not more. Espresso is fuel for many people that drink it. It’s a boost of energy that keeps them going when life gets busy – and it’s delicious.

Since you’re here, that is most likely the case for you, so wouldn’t it be better to avoid having to make trip after trip to a coffee shop when you can get the same thing in the comfort of your home?

Espresso machines have come a long way since they first hit the market, and the innumerable options make choosing one difficult.

The list and buyers guide in this article will help you narrow your list enough to choose the best fit for your home.

15 Best Espresso Machines Under 500

1. Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine (Best Fully Automatic)

Photo of a silver Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine with milk frother and hot water dispenser.

This super-automatic espresso machine has features that make it 100% worth the purchase. It has push-button controls and an illuminated LED display for easy use.

You can use the milk-frothing wand to make lattes or cappuccinos or use it as a hot water dispenser.

This espresso machine has rapid steam technology that heats up quickly for brewing and steaming. Its ceramic burr grinder and bypass doser make it possible to use whole beans or pre-ground coffee beans, and it adapts to your preferred bean type.

The water reservoir and dreg box pull out from the front of the machine for quick and easy cleaning.

A 1-year warranty comes with your purchase.

Pros

  • Milk frother/Hot water dispenser
  • Easy clean up
  • Includes grinder/bypass doser
  • Adaptable to bean type
  • LED display
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Small water reservoir
  • Small cup space

2. Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine (Best Semi-Automatic)

Photo of a brushed stainless steel semi-automatic Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine.

The Gaggia Classic Pro is smaller than the Gaggia Super Automatic Espresso Machine, but a valuable option nonetheless. It comes in brushed stainless steel and is an option for those with small counter spaces.

This machine comes with a commercial steam wand and a commercial-style portafilter. It comes with multiple pressurized filter baskets and a commercial basket you can use with your own grinder.

The classic pro heats up within 5 minutes and is ready to steam within 30 seconds. Pump mounts are in place to minimize noise during the brewing process.

The control panel has three switches: a power switch, a brewing switch, and a steaming switch.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Compact
  • Quiet brewing process
  • Quick heat-up

Cons

  • The portafilter is difficult to remove

3. Gevi Professional Espresso Machine (Best with Grinder)

Photo of a cream color Gevi Professional Espresso Machine with pressure gauge, a grinder, and adjustable frother taking two cups of espresso.

The Gevi espresso machine has a 20-bar high-pressure pump, comparable to espresso machines used in coffee shops, which means excellent crema for your espresso.

Its built-in pressure gauge helps you see the exact pressure for the optimal espresso extraction.

This machine’s steam wand is adjustable and can work for different cup sizes. It has a hot water option for you to use for hot tea or another hot beverage, such as an Americano.

The following items come with your purchase: a coffee bean grinder, two shot glasses, two powder chambers, one coffee spoon, one cleaning brush, one double-cup tamper, and one frothing jug.

Pros

  • High-pressure pump
  • Grinder included
  • Adjustable frother
  • Built-in pressure gauge
  • Lots of extras

Cons

  • It takes time to clean

4. Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine (Best with Frother)

Photo of stainless steel with black plastics Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine taking two cups of espresso and a steaming wand.

This espresso machine has a 15-bar high-pressure pump system. It produces quality espresso and a flawless layer of crema.

It has thermoblock heating technology and PID temperature control that gives you a great-tasting espresso every time.

The dial interface gives you three options: hot water, steam, or double and single shots.

A removable 2L water reservoir, a cup warming tray, and a frothing wand are included with your purchase.

Pros

  • Thermoblock heating technology
  • Temperature control
  • High-pressure pump system
  • Double shot option
  • Cup warming tray

Cons

  • The water tank is on the back.

5. Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine

Photo of a stainless steel Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine with a steaming wand.

The Breville Duo Temp Pro system produces perfectly balanced espresso with rich, bold flavors. It has a low-pressure pre-infusion process that helps the flavors come out evenly.

The water temperature is auto-controlled through thermo-coil heating, which also contributes to extracting the natural flavors of the espresso.

It comes with a high-power steam wand that helps you create cafe-style lattes.

You will see a power button on the left and a steam/hot water button on the right.

The dial in the center is what you will use to choose your cup size.

Pros

  • Pre-infusion process helps flavor
  • High-power steam wand
  • Cup size options
  • Auto-temp control

Cons

  • Frother could be better

6. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

Photo of a silver Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine with steam wand and frothing temp control.

This Breville espresso machine is more compact than the previously mentioned one, but its size doesn’t decrease its quality. This machine produces a balanced, full-bodied espresso like the Duo Temp Pro.

The Bambino Plus has a low-pressure pre-infusion process that contributes to a better-tasting espresso. It has a 3-second heat-up time and a quick brewing time.

The control buttons include a power button, one and two-shot options, a steam option, a frothing temperature control, and a frothing texture control.

Pros

  • Pre-infusion process
  • Single or double-shot options
  • Frothing temp control
  • 3-second heat up

Cons

  • Coffee filter is hard to put on
  • The drip tray is a little flimsy

7. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine

Silver Breville Bambino Espresso Machine.

This is another option from the Breville brand. It is more compact than the previous two and simple to use.

It has single and double espresso cup options and a hot water and steam option.

It has a low-pressure pre-infusion process with a 3-second heat time that delivers the same excellent taste you should expect from a Breville espresso machine.

The powerful steam wand will froth your milk beautifully for the perfect latte.

Pros

  • Compact
  • Single and double-shot options
  • Steam and hot water options
  • 3-second heat time
  • Low-pressure pre-infusion process

Cons

  • Low-quality portafilter

8. Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine

Photo of a black and silver Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine with a water and milk reservoir and milk steamer. Making a cappuccino.

The Mr. Coffee Espresso machine has a nice setup with two reservoirs, one for milk and one for water. They are both on the side of the machine, which makes it easier for you to keep track of the levels.

This is a programmable coffee maker with an automatic milk frother. You can program it to make a single or double shot of espresso, a latte, or a cappuccino.

It has a 19-bar pressure system that ensures a quality espresso every time.

Pros

  • Milk and water reservoir
  • Programmable
  • Makes cappuccinos, lattes, and shots
  • 19 bar pressure system
  • Automatic milk frother

Cons

  • Milk container is tricky to clean
  • Filter cup falls out easily

9. Lavazza Capsule Coffee Machine (Best Capsule Machine)

Photo of a black Lavaza capsule coffee machine making a cappuccino.

The Lavazza capsule coffee machine is a multi-use system. It has all the options you could ask for – single shot, double shot, 8 oz cup of coffee, lungo, macchiato, latte, and cappuccino.

A vessel, a milk frother separate from the machine, is included with the purchase of this capsule machine. Your purchase will also include a 32-capsule pack and an extra vessel.

This espresso machine is compact, simple to use, and convenient. It also includes a standby mode.

Pros

  • Seven coffee options
  • Milk frother included
  • An extra frother and 32 capsule pack included
  • Compact
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Only takes Lavazza capsules

10. Flair Espresso Maker Pro 2 (Best Manual)

Photo of a black and gold Flair Espresso Maker Pro 2 with a pressure gauge.

This contraption is quite different from the rest. That is because it is 100% manual. It has no touch screen, no buttons, and no auto settings. It’s just the espresso maker and you.

This Flair Espresso Maker is a high-quality, fully-manual system. It has a pressure gauge with a stainless steel plunger, stainless steel dispersion screen, stainless steel spout, and stainless steel bottomless portafilter.

Because this espresso maker is 100% human-powered, it is the best option to take on trips, whether you are going camping or traveling for work. It’s portable and easy to clean.

Pros

  • Portable
  • Easy to clean
  • Made of durable material
  • Gauge included

Cons

  • There is a learning curve

11. Calphalon Compact Espresso Machine

Photo of a stainless steel with black plastics Calphalon Compact Espresso Machine and a cup of espresso on top of it.

This space-friendly espresso machine is another option for somebody looking for a compact espresso machine. It is only 6 inches wide and 12 inches tall, meaning you can fit it pretty much anywhere.

It has a simple control design with a power button, single and double shot buttons, and a steam button. It has a built-in frother and a dial for choosing the amount of froth you want.

There is a warming cup tray on top to keep your cup warm while you make another, and the machine includes two drip trays for supporting different cup sizes.

A milk jug, tamper, and dual wall filters are all included with your purchase.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • A built-in frother and pressure dial
  • Compact
  • Warming plate
  • 2 drip trays
  • Includes milk jug, tamper, and filters

Cons

  • Milk frother can be challenging to master

12. Philips Automatic Espresso Machine

Photo of a black Philips Automatic Espresso Machine, making two espresso shots.

This is another great option if you want to go all out with a fully automatic espresso machine. It comes with a classic milk frother and a touchscreen display that will brew one or two shots of espresso at the touch of a button.

This machine includes automatic ceramic grinders, an aqua-clean compatible filter, and a removable brew group.

It has espresso, coffee, hot water, steam options, and controls for the ceramic grinders.

Pros

  • Fully automatic
  • Sensored touch display
  • Ceramic grinders
  • Coffee and espresso options
  • Hot water option
  • Frothing wand

Cons

  • Button sensors have a slow reaction time
  • Espresso could be hotter

13. De-Longhi Coffee Maker and Espresso Machine

Photo of a De-Longhi Coffee Maker and Espresso Machine with stainless steel front and black plastics, a touch screen showing the time and a steamer.

The De-Longhi espresso machine is an all-in-one machine that is great if you want to switch things up daily. Using it will make you feel like you’re a professional barista.

It has a zero-wait, dual-heating system that allows you to make coffee and espresso simultaneously. The touch screen is digital and includes a digital timer for programming.

This espresso maker has a bold feature, which means you can adjust the boldness of your espresso to match your preferences.

Pros

  • No wait heating
  • Coffee and espresso maker
  • Touch screen controls
  • Digital timer
  • Bold option

Cons

  • Portafilter is low quality
  • Frothing wand is not durable
  • Bold doesn’t work with auto brew

14. Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine

Photo of a black and silver Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine making a long espresso coffee.

This espresso machine is a compact capsule machine that doubles as a coffee maker. It is a one-touch brewing system with a removable water tank and automatic capsule ejection and storage.

It has four cup sizes: Espresso, double espresso, Alto, and Gran Lungo.

It has centrifusion technology that uses centrifugal pressure to brew an evenly balanced cup.

With Bluetooth and WiFi technology, you can update your machine to brew a variety of coffee types.

You will receive 30 Nespresso pods of different intensities with your purchase.

Pros

  • Espresso and coffee make
  • One-touch brewing
  • Auto capsule ejection
  • Four cup sizes
  • Blue-tooth and WiFi

Cons

  • Difficult to close
  • Pods are pricey

15. De’Longhi Espresso and Cappuccino Maker

Photo of a black and silver De’Longhi Espresso and Cappuccino Maker making two espresso coffees.

This De’Longhi espresso maker is another space saver. It isn’t as compact as others but is a nice size that doesn’t take up too much counter space.

It has a 15-bar professional pressure pump that produces quality espresso. It has an adjustable dial that is simple to use with four brewing options: Single espresso, double espresso, cappuccino, and latte.

It has a manual frother and a 3-in-1 filter holder to accommodate the various brew choices. There is a cup warmer on the top of the machine to keep your espresso warm when needed.

The water tank is removable and easy to clean.

Pros

  • Space saver
  • Four brewing options
  • Manual frother
  • 3-in-1 filter holder
  • Removable water tank
  • 15 bar pressure pump

Cons

  • Shot splitter is not consistent
  • Tamper is lacking in quality

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Espresso Machine Under $500

There are many factors to consider before you make your choice. Your decision depends on what it is you are looking for. Let’s get into the various characteristics you should look for in an espresso machine.

Espresso Machine Types

Manual – A manual espresso maker is completely human-operated. No electricity is needed; you do the pumping manually, using a lever.

A manual espresso machine will have a gauge that you will use to measure the pressure as you are pressing the espresso. Learning to use a manual espresso machine takes time because the amount of pressure you apply is 100% up to you.

Semi-Automatic – This type of espresso machine automatically brews the espresso, but the rest of the components are controlled by you. You have to do the tamping and control the extraction timing. It takes some of the work off of you but keeps you involved in the process.

Automatic – Fully automatic espresso machines do most of the work for you. The extraction time is automated, so all you have to do is press the button and wait.

Super-Automatic – From the grinding of the beans to the brewing of the espresso, super-automatic espresso machines take care of it all. They usually have programmable settings, so they are pretty much labor-free.

Capsule – Capsule espresso machines are simple and require you to insert a capsule pod and press the brewing button to brew your espresso.

The Space You Have Available

The more bells and whistles you want, the larger the espresso machine. However, you can find small to medium espresso makers with plenty of extra accessories.

Consider how much counter space you have. If space isn’t limited, then go all out and get the multi-use espresso maker that makes two cups at a time and has a built-in frother, grinder, and reservoir.

Of course, only go for that option if you plan to use the extra features and accessories.

If you need a space saver, plenty of options on the list will work perfectly, such as the Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine.

The Durability

There is a lot to consider when it comes to the durability of an espresso machine. The machine has to produce a lot of pressure to make espresso. Pressure can put stress on the machine, especially when you use it daily.

Because of this, your espresso machine needs to be made of a durable material like stainless steel so it can withstand the pressure it takes to make the espresso.

Beyond the outer shell of the machine, consider attachments such as a frothing wand. If you love lattes and cappuccino, make sure the frother is made with quality material or that it can be replaced with a better one.

The Pressure Pump

Throughout the article, you have seen different levels of pressure pumps, like a 20-bar pump or a 15-bar pump. Pressure makes a difference to the quality of espresso. Without enough pressure, your espresso will taste weak.

The use of pressure during the brewing process creates the foamy crema and brings out the boldness of the espresso. The espresso machines with professional pressure pumps (15-20 bar pumps) extract the best crema and most flavor.

The Controls

The controls of espresso machines vary. You will find some with digital touchscreens, some with buttons or switches, and others with dials.

Some espresso machines have many brewing options, while others operate with a single button.

If you enjoy cappuccinos or lattes, it’s convenient to have an espresso machine that gives you those options or at least has a milk frother.

To Have a Milk Frother or Not

If you drink your espresso shots straight, and that is all you drink, there is no need for a milk frother.

On the other hand, if you want to expand your espresso drink pallet, milk frothers come with most espresso machines and are a quick and easy way to make your favorite gourmet espresso beverage.

That said, not every milk frother/wand is as durable as it should be. The durability of the frother will affect the outcome of the froth consistency, so keep that in mind when you are choosing an espresso machine with a milk frother.

Other Espresso Machine Features

  • Auto-off – Not only will an auto-off switch save energy, but it’s safer overall. Unfortunately, not everybody remembers to turn off their espresso machines, so an auto-off feature is helpful.
  • Adjustable Trays – Some espresso machines allow you to brew different cup sizes, but not all of them accommodate every size of cup. Adjustable trays make using different cup sizes much easier.
  • Programmable Options – Who doesn’t love to wake up to the delicious fragrance of coffee? Some espresso machines allow you to program when and how to brew your espresso, what size cup you want, and the type of espresso drink you have.
  • Pressure Gauge – A pressure gauge is a must when using a manual or semi-automatic machine. To get the best extraction, you need to use the right amount of pressure, which is measured with a pressure gauge.
  • Auto-temp Control – This feature is very helpful as it keeps the temperature just right for the best extraction and saves you from worrying that the temperature is not right.
  • Coffee Bean Grinder – If you grind your beans at home, you can find espresso machines with built-in coffee grinders. Others, like the Gevi Professional Espresso Machine, come with separate grinders.
  • Warming Tray – This is a convenient, useful option for anybody. Whether you are making multiple cups or have to walk away from your machine for a few, the warming tray can keep your espresso warm until you are ready to drink it.
  • Hot Water Option – Do you enjoy the occasional Americano or hot tea? Some espresso machines have a hot water option that makes it simple to make other hot beverages.
  • Accessories – You will find that some espresso machines come with tons of accessories, including espresso cups, a milk froth jug, extra filters, a coffee spoon, etc. All-in-one packages are always appealing.

Our Verdict

Go big or go home, right? At the top of the list sits the Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine.

This espresso machine is decked out from top to bottom. It takes care of every step of the process, from grinding the beans to brewing a delicious cup of espresso.

It has a push-button LED display that is programmable. It has a ceramic burr grinder, a milk frother, and a hot water dispenser, and it adapts to your coffee bean type.

It’s also nice to look at, which never hurts!

If you want quality, durability, and convenience, this Gaggia espresso machine will meet all your espresso needs.

Which One Do You Choose?

The research has been done for you, so you don’t have to worry about picking the wrong one. Just refer to the list above. Every espresso machine on the list is worthy of being chosen.

They are budget friendly with the quality you would get from a high-end espresso machine. Your thought process should go into the style of espresso machine you wish to have.

Is space more important, or are you looking for as many brewing options as you can get?

Don’t need a decked espresso machine like our top pick?

No problem, you have 14 others to choose from. Take your time to look at the pros and cons of each espresso machine, and decide which one has exactly what you are looking for. You can’t go wrong!

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Robert Knowlton is an expert barista with more than 15 years of experience. Robert's main goal is to make sure everyone can enjoy the perfect cup of coffee regardless of their skill level.