The Best Espresso Machines for Beginners

Why Choose an Espresso Machine?

Here are a few reasons why investing in an espresso machine is a wise move, especially for beginners. You can experiment with flavors, milk textures, and coffee strength with espresso machines, which not only save you money in the long run but also offer you a great deal of flexibility. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about brewing your own perfect shot of espresso at home.

The key to choosing the right machine as a beginner is to find one that balances efficiency of use, affordability, and performance. You'll want a machine that makes the process straightforward but also delivers café-quality espresso. Let’s take a look at some essential features to consider.

What to Look for in an Espresso Machine for Beginners

User-Friendly

As a beginner, you’ll want a machine that’s user-friendly, with clear instructions and simple controls. Automatic and semi-automatic machines are often the best choices, as they smoothen the brewing process while still giving you some control over the shot.

Durability and processing quality

Espresso machines are an investment, so it’s important to find one that’s durable and built to last. Stainless steel models tend to be more robust, but there are also quality machines made from hard plastic.

Milk Frother

If you love lattes and cappuccinos, a machine with a reliable milk frother is a must. Some beginner machines come with automatic milk frothing systems, while others have steam wands that allow you to froth milk manually.

Price

As a beginner, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a good espresso machine. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that offer excellent performance without breaking the bank. However, keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always deliver the best results or last as long, so consider the purchase carefully.

Size and Design

Consider how much space you have in your kitchen. Some machines are compact and perfect for small spaces, while others are larger but may offer more features. Also, the design is important—an attractive, well-designed machine can be a stylish addition to your kitchen.

The Top 5 Best Espresso Machines for Beginners

Breville Bambino Plus

Why it’s great for beginners: The Breville Bambino Plus is perfect for beginners who want high-quality espresso without the complexity. It heats up in just three seconds and features automatic milk frothing, so you don’t have to worry about learning complex techniques right away. Its small footprint makes it ideal for smaller kitchens.

Key features: 3-second heat-up time, automatic steam wand, precise temperature control, compact design.

Best for: Those who want a quick, easy, and stylish machine with the option to perfect their milk frothing skills over time.

De’Longhi EC155

Why it’s great for beginners: The De’Longhi EC155 is a budget-friendly option that’s simple and reliable. It’s perfect for those who want to dip their toes into the espresso world without spending too much. It has a built-in manual frother and is known for its durability and consistent performance.

Key features: Dual-function filter holder, 15-bar pump, swivel jet frother, affordable price.

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners looking for a basic machine that’s easy to use.

Gaggia Classic Pro

Why it’s great for beginners: The Gaggia Classic Pro is a semi-automatic machine that’s easy to learn but offers room to grow as your skills improve. It’s built like a commercial machine with a stainless steel body and comes with a commercial-style steam wand for frothing milk. The Classic Pro strikes a balance between ease of use and professional-quality espresso.

Key features: 58mm portafilter, commercial steam wand, rocker switches, solid build quality.

Best for: Beginners who want a durable, semi-automatic machine that delivers consistent, café-quality espresso.

Nespresso VertuoPlus

Why it’s great for beginners: If you’re looking for ultimate convenience, the Nespresso VertuoPlus is a capsule-based machine that’s as beginner-friendly as it gets. Simply pop in a capsule, press a button, and the machine takes care of the rest. It’s a great option for those who want espresso-like drinks without the hassle of grinding beans or tamping.

Key features: One-touch brewing, automatic capsule ejection, 5 cup sizes, fast heat-up time.

Best for: Beginners who prioritize convenience and consistency over manual espresso-making techniques.

Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker

Why it’s great for beginners: Mr. Coffee offers an easy-to-use, automatic machine that brews espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes with the touch of a button. It comes with an automatic milk frother, making it a great option for those who love milk-based drinks. It’s an affordable choice for those just starting out.

Key features: One-touch control panel, automatic milk frother, removable water and milk reservoirs.

Best for: Beginners who want a simple, all-in-one machine for both espresso and milk-based drinks.

How to make Espresso as a Beginner

Now that you have your espresso machine, let’s go over some basic steps to help you get started with brewing delicious espresso at home.

1. Grind Your Beans

If your machine doesn’t come with a built-in grinder, you’ll need to grind your own beans. Aim for a fine grind, similar to table salt, for the perfect espresso shot. Freshly ground coffee beans yield the best flavor.

2. Tamp the Coffee

Once your coffee is ground, place it into the portafilter basket (if your machine has one). Use a tamper to evenly press down the coffee. Proper tamping ensures an even extraction, which is key to achieving the best-tasting espresso.

3. Brew the Espresso

Lock the portafilter into the machine, place your cup underneath, and start the brewing process. If your machine is fully or semi-automatic, it will stop brewing after the right amount of espresso has been extracted. A good shot of espresso will take around 25-30 seconds to brew.

4. Froth Your Milk (If Needed)

If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos, you’ll want to froth your milk. For machines with steam wands, position the steam wand just below the surface of the milk and froth until it reaches your desired texture.

5. Enjoy Your Espresso!

Once you’ve brewed your espresso or frothed milk, enjoy your drink immediately for the freshest taste. Experiment with different beans, milk types, and flavors to find your perfect cup.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Espresso Machine for Beginners

Choosing the best espresso machine for beginners doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on user friendliness, reliability, and features that match your preferences, you can find a machine that helps you make delicious espresso at home without the stress. Whether you’re looking for a quick, capsule-based option like the Nespresso VertuoPlus or a more hands-on experience with the Gaggia Classic Pro, there’s a machine out there that’s perfect for your needs.

Investing in an espresso machine is the first step to unlocking a world of coffee possibilities. So, get ready to brew, sip, and enjoy the experience of crafting café-quality espresso from the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy brewing!