Many coffee lovers are also fans of a concentrated, flavorful shot of espresso. If you are a home espresso brewer, your top priority should be to get a high-quality espresso machine. It should come with the right features and accessories to help you make your barista-quality drink. The market is jam-packed with espresso machines whose prices, quality, and brands vary. Whenever you go out there, you have to select that which will best meet your needs. In this article, we have provided 10 espresso machines with incomparable quality and great features. Get your choice for the best espresso machine under 500.
On top of that, we have added a buyer’s guide and some of the most popular questions that people ask about espresso machines.
Best Espresso Machine Under 500 Review
1. KitchenAid KES0504OB Nespresso Bundle
On top of our list of the best espresso machine under 500 is the KitchenAid model. With the 19 bar pressure system, this espresso machine guarantees a Nespresso coffee quality that never disappoints. It comes with a milk frother so that on some days, you can also enjoy a delicious cup of cappuccino. Its easy capsule loading system is compatible with Nespresso pods in more than 22 Grand Crus, and you can enjoy all of them whenever you wish.
The brew strength selector is also an admirable feature that this espresso machine has. It has six settings that are already pre-programmed so that you may achieve the amount of flavor you crave. That, combined with the machine’s fast heat-up time of fewer than 30 seconds, makes this amazing model worth your money.
If you are looking for a machine with a premium design, you ought to try this one. With its classic all-metal construction, you will find a hard time getting your eyes off it. Then, it has a removable water tank that can hold as much as 1.3 liters. Expect no problems when cleaning it after you have made enough espresso for you and your friends.
The espresso machine’s cup shelf is adjustable. This allows you to use either small or large cups, depending on the amount of espresso you desire.
Pros
- It brews great espresso
- Comes with a stylish design
- You can use both small and large cups
- Heats up quickly
- Has a milk frother
Con
- Not everyone can access this espresso machine since it is not eligible for international shipping
2. Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
This is one of Breville’s greatest espresso machines, and you need to give a chance. It has an innovative thermojet heating system that only requires three seconds to reach optimum temperature. This means that you can have the tasty cup of espresso you desire within an incredibly short time.
In addition to that, this espresso maker comes with low-pressure pre-infusion. Its purpose is to increase the pressure at the start, slowly, to make sure that all the flavors are extracted evenly to make the perfect espresso shots.
Many users have expressed their appreciation of the automatic steam wand. With it, you can change the temperature and texture of the milk according to your preferences. What’s more is that you will get a barista-quality microfoam which will enhance your drink’s flavor. It also comes in handy when creating fascinating latte art.
The digital temperature control allows you to have the water at the right temperature for quality espresso extraction. This machine also comes with an auto-purge that automatically purges the heating system to ensure that the temperature will be perfect when making your next shot.
Pros
- Quality heating system
- Delivers espresso with great flavors
- Has automatic microform milk texturing
- Has an unbelievably fast heat-up time
Con
- The machine doesn’t come with a handle hence grabbing it can be tricky
3. Nespresso EN550B Lattissima Touch Original Espresso Machine
This espresso machine under $500 comes with DeLonghi’s espresso extraction system that creates the required flow of water to deliver great espresso. If you are a cappuccino enthusiast, you will like the automatic cappuccino system that allows for a rich and dense foam.
Then, there is the integrated carafe whose function is to produce milk levels that can be adjusted. Feel free to choose the one that suits your needs; depending on how you like your cappuccino.
The thermoblock heating system that this machine has speeds the heating time to seconds and also maintains the optimal temperature so that you can have the espresso as soon as you want it.
With its programmable auto-off timer, the espresso maker can also help you reduce your electricity bills. Moreover, it has six tactile beverage buttons, which are pre-programmed, to enable you to choose your favorite drink. It could be lungo, espresso, cappuccino, hot milk, ristretto, or even latte macchiato.
You are likely to experience no issues when using this Nespresso machine. All you need is to press a single button to enjoy your favorite espresso shot. You may also recycle the Nespresso capsules that will still deliver the most delicious drinks.
Another great thing about the Nespresso EN550B Lattissima is that it helps you save on space; with its streamlined design. It can fit anywhere in your kitchen or office.
Pros
- The machine is easy to use
- It helps you save electrical power
- It has a quality, reliable extraction system
- You can choose the milk level you want for your cappuccino
Con
- It doesn’t have a sensor or visual reminder to alert you if the milk starts to overflow
4. Saeco HD8645/47 Vapore Automatic Espresso Machine
The Saeco HD8645/47 Vapore has a lot of great features to offer and definitely had to slot in our review for the best espresso machine under 500. Its ceramic grinders enable it to produce quality espresso from fresh beans. They never overheat and to make things better, they come with five grinder settings. Hence, you can customize the grind to achieve your desired flavor.
Feel free to use this machine to make cappuccino whenever you feel like. Its stylish milk frother never disappoints. For those who don’t like doing the cleaning every time, this machine comes with an auto-cleaning function to eliminate all that hassle.
Ease of use is another factor that makes this espresso maker ideal for you. Your drink will be ready at the touch of a button. The quick heat boiler allow for immediate brewing. Also, the Saeco HD8645/47 Vapore espresso maker comes with a memo function for you to adjust the coffee length to meet your needs. You may use all blends of espresso coffee.
The machine’s brew group is detachable. Therefore, you may remove it whenever you feel like for inspection to ensure that all the parts are functioning correctly. You may also clean them yourself if you don’t want the auto cleaning.
Pros
- The machine brews great-tasting espresso
- It has a milk frother for cappuccino enthusiasts
- You can make your coffee at the simple touch of a button
- Both auto and hand cleaning is possible
Cons
- The machine’s components are relatively small; hence easy to fall
- The cup size is a bit limited
5. Nespresso by De’Longhi EN520SL Lattissima Plus Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
Not many espresso machines out there can beat this one’s performance. It comes with 19 bars of pressure for quality extraction of flavors to make sure you enjoy the best espresso and coffee drinks. Then, the thermoblock heating system reduces the cold-start heating time to seconds; guaranteeing fast delivery.
The sliding drip tray is adjustable. Therefore, the machine can accommodate large coffee drinks; allowing you to enjoy macchiatos, cappuccinos, and lattes. It also has two coffee and three milk options. You may choose what you want by simply pressing a button.
Saving energy using this machine is possible. It has an auto-off timer that you may adjust to fit your interests. With it, you can reduce your electricity expenses and still have your favorite cup of espresso, latte or cappuccino.
The milk frothing technology that this machine uses allows you to have a delicious velvety froth that makes your drink one to die for. The milk container is detachable. It makes cleaning it a lot easier than if it were irremovable.
Once you buy this Nespresso espresso machine, you are given a complimentary welcome kit. It includes a variety of Nespresso capsule with distinct aromatic flavors that you can try out.
Pros
- High performance that guarantees delivery of quality espresso
- Fast heat-up time
- Has an energy-saving function
- Comes with a gift kit
- The removable milk container is easy to clean
Cons
- It has plastic material which can burn easily; hence you should always keep it away from sources of fire
- The milk foam’s quality is not up to standard
6. Breville BES840XL/A the Infuser Espresso Machine
With a 61-ounce water tank, this espresso machine allows you to make coffee for you and your friends or workmates. It has an auto-purge function to adjust the water temperature automatically after steam to achieve optimal espresso extraction temperature. It also has volumetric control so that you can regulate the volume of each shot to suit your preferences.
Furthermore, this Breville appliance has a digital PID temperature control. You can change it in 4⁰ F increments depending on what you want. The pressure gauge steers to the perfect extraction. Micro-foam milk texturing enables you to brew café quality latte and even create some art.
Another feature that most users have liked about this espresso machine is the flexible shot control. With it, you can choose between one or two shots. You may also manually control the amount of drink to put in your cup.
The machine’s cup warmer ensures that you never have to take cold drinks again, the espresso can stay warm until you serve it. Like most espresso makers, this one also has an energy-saving function. It switches to sleep mode after an hour of inactivity. Should three hours pass and it is still inactive, it automatically turns off.
Pros
- The water tank is large
- Ideal for making cappuccinos and lattes as well
- Saves electrical power
- Allows you to have your espresso while it is still warm
Con
- You may not get repair parts especially if the warranty period has elapsed
7. Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine
This espresso machine’s user-friendly interface makes it suitable for first-time users. Its LED display comes with illuminated icons to guide you, and you can do everything by simply pushing a button. With the Pannarello wand frothing, brewing cappuccinos and lattes should be extremely easy. The wand can also serve as a dispenser for hot water when making tea and Americanos.
With the help of the machine’s rapid steam technology, the heat up time is incredibly fast (in less than ten seconds) to allow for quick brewing. This means that you can make your espresso even while in the middle of something because you can get back to it in good time.
All the components of this espresso machine from Gaggia are within reach. You can easily access the drip tray, water tank, and dregs drawers for cleaning or inspection. To enable you to use a variety of cups, the cup height ranges between 3.25″ and 4.5″.
The Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine has a classic look with stainless steel front panels. It makes it stand out, and it might even be the best-looking appliance in your kitchen space. With its compact design, it can fit in your kitchen drawers comfortably.
Pros
- It is easy to operate it
- It can also make great lattes and cappuccinos
- Has a fast heat-up time for quick brewing
- The brew group is removable
- Has a stylish look
Con
- The water tank holds about 20 oz hence you have to keep refilling it if you are brewing drinks for many
8. BREVILLE BES810BSSUSC BES810BSS Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine
This is another fantastic espresso machine from Breville that you can invest in. The 15 bar Italian pump starts with a low-pressure ideal for blooming the coffee grounds; then, it increases slowly for quality and balanced extraction. Even though it doesn’t come with automatic control of the espresso’s volume, you can comfortably do it manually.
The water tank has a capacity of 61 ounces. With it, you can make enough cups for you and several of your friends. Also, if you are brewing the drinks for yourself, you don’t have to keep refilling the tank.
You may like the accessories that come with this espresso machine. One of them is the Razor dose trimming tool that you can use to correctly measure and level your coffee grounds in the filter basket. Others include the stainless steel milk container, the water filter, and its holder as well as the dual-wall filter baskets to help you attain a fake crema.
There is a steam wand for you to steam and froth milk to your liking. This helps you brew flavorsome espresso drinks.
Pros
- Quality espresso machine
- Has a large water tank
- Comes with great and useful accessories
- Makes classic espresso drinks
Con
- You cannot use this espresso machine to make regular coffee
9. KRUPS EA8250 Fully Auto Espresso Machine
This espresso machine’s metal conical burr grinder, which is built-in, will blow you away; like it has many users. It comes with adjustable grind settings so that you can capture a coffee flavor that you like. Then, you never have to worry about where to keep your coffee beans because there is a large sealed bean hopper for you to store them.
Moreover, this automatic espresso machine uses thermoblock heating technology for fast heat-up times. Together with the 15-bar high-pressure pump and hydraulic automated tamping system, you can have the tastiest espresso promptly.
The espresso maker’s 60-ounce water tank is removable; hence cleaning should be pretty uncomplicated. The same applies to the drip tray as well as the cake container. This machine is also worth your cash because it has a friendly control panel. There is an LCD screen for easy navigation and an ergonomic knob so that you can operate it comfortably and safely.
With its compact size, you can store the KRUPS EA8250 Fully Auto Espresso Machine in any of your smaller kitchen cabinets. It can also fit pretty well in your office space.
Pros
- It is stress-free to operate
- Guarantees great tamping and extraction of the coffee grounds
- Easy to clean and check
- Comes in a compact design for easy storage
Con
- Cannot be shipped to most states outside the U.S.
10. DeLonghi EC680M DEDICA 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine
Last on the list of the best espresso machine under 500 is the De’Longhi Dedica model. With high-performance espresso machines like this one, DeLonghi has created a name for itself. The DeLonghi EC680M DEDICA will brew your favorite single/double espresso, latte or cappuccino as you want it. There is a manual frother whose job is to create a rich, smooth froth by perfectly mixing steam and milk.
If you ever desire a large size drink, you have little to worry about. DeLonghi designed this machine to accommodate taller cups. The unit’s bottom tray is adjustable to fit the cup you want. To make sure that you get the amount of drink that you desire, the machine automatically produces either one or two shots.
The cappuccino maker also comes with an ideal three-in-one filter holder. It covers both one and two espresso shots. The holder is also for an espresso pod that suits your preferences. With the sleek design, this machine deserves some space in your kitchen, and it doesn’t even demand a lot of it.
If you are using this espresso maker for the first time, consider going through the manual first. It will give you some useful tips on how to operate it.
Pros
- Makes all espresso-based drinks
- It can accommodate all cups
- It is easy to store
- Come with a manual for guidance
Con
- Some users have complained that it might start smoking when brewing after some time
It would be reckless to purchase the best espresso machine under 500 blindly. You ought to put several things into account before settling on a particular espresso maker. Here are some of them:
Best Espresso Machine Under 500 Buyers Guide
Durability
You probably want to buy an espresso machine that you can use for a long time. Therefore, make sure that what you get off the market is durable, and it can withstand great pressure. You should be able to make as many espresso shots as you want. While there are cheap machines that can serve you for years, you will also find others that won’t even last a month. Be careful to ensure that you don’t buy an inexpensive espresso maker that you will only use for a few weeks before it breaks down.
Water capacity
You can also consider the size of the espresso machine’s water tank. If you will be making your espresso or latte many times a day, or for many people, you should choose one whose water tank capacity exceeds a liter. If you are not an avid espresso drinker, you can go for a water tank that can hold less water.
Cost
When buying your espresso machine, select what you can afford. Sticking to your budget is important because it prevents you from spending more than you have. If you go for an expensive machine, make sure that it has all the features that you want, and it is quality. It is without doubt that you can still get the best espresso machine under 500 if you are on a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some of the frequently asked questions about the best espresso machine under 500.
- How many bars of do I need to make espresso?
Espresso can be brewed using 9 bars of pressure. You can also have machines with higher bars like 15, 17 and 19.
- Does my espresso machine need a filter?
Yes. Your espresso maker needs a filter so that you can use clean water to make your drinks. Luckily, most espresso machines come with in-built filters.
- How healthy is steamed milk?
Steamed milk is healthy because it is loaded with calcium, protein and vitamin D.
- Who invented the espresso machine?
Angelo Moriondo from Turin, Italy.
There are plenty of espresso machines under $500 that you can purchase. Before deciding to spend your money on any of them, make sure that it has all the features you need. Otherwise, it will be a waste of cash, and you may have to go back to the market to look for another machine sooner than you thought. You must always confirm that it is durable, and its water tank is large enough for your espresso drinking requirements. This review for the best espresso machine under 500 should surely help you in getting the best.