Best Manual Espresso Machine – Top Picks

Best Manual Espresso Machine

Expert espresso brewers love manual espresso machines. With them, you are in full control of how your favorite cup of espresso is made. You grind the coffee beans to suit your desires and operate every other part of the espresso maker. Using them requires precision and a lot of attention. Should you make the mistake of getting distracted while preparing your shot, it may not have the flavor you were hoping to get. That’s why need to read this guide on the best manual espresso machine.

Whenever you go to buy a manual espresso machine, there are many that you will find. Some are as inexpensive as below $100, while others are below $1000 or above. The machine you select should meet your needs and fit your budget.

Below, we have provided eleven fantastic manual espresso machines that you can consider when you are looking for one. We have also crafted a buying guide to help you make the best choice. Hopefully, the frequently asked questions (FAQs) will help you learn a few things about these manual espresso makers.

Best Manual Espresso Machine Review

1. DeLonghi EC155M Manual Espresso Machine

This is a simple manual machine that you can get to make an espresso whenever you want. One of its great features is the self-priming system that allows the espresso maker to be ready for use at all times. Another thing that you will like is the two separate thermostats that it has. With them, you can control the temperatures of the water and steam comfortably.

The espresso machine has two different filters that come with the crema device. There is a special filter holder for your ground coffee to make operation easier for you. The water reservoir is transparent, so you don’t have to struggle to see the amount of water remaining. Furthermore, it can hold one liter; hence, you can make a cup for you and another for your friend without having to refill it.

This machine is also suitable for cappuccino enthusiasts because it has an efficient cappuccino system. It mixes milk, steam, and air to deliver a creamy and rich froth for your drink.  In case you haven’t used an espresso machine before, you can start with this one. Its operation is effortless because of its indicator lights, single selector knob to turn it off and on as well as an adjustable steam emission.

Pros

  • The machine is pretty easy to use
  • It can also make cappuccinos
  • It is simple
  • It has a large water reservoir

Con

  • The machine has plastic material that can easily get burnt

 

2. Flair Espresso Maker

When Flair built this espresso machine, they had espresso enthusiasts who also love design in mind. This one is strikingly beautiful, and it makes use of long-lasting materials like aluminum and stainless steel. It comes with a travel case so that you can carry it with you to work or on trips.

On top of that, it is 100% manual. There is no need for electronics or plugs. It comes with a burr grinder that you can use to grind your coffee beans freshly. With the detachable brewing head, cleaning will only take a few minutes of your time.

The machine comes with a funnel and a measuring cup. This makes the process of making your espresso drinks effortless. The shot extraction time ranges between 30-45 seconds; hence, you will not wait for long.

There is no doubt that this machine will serve you well. It is designed for espresso fans who have mastered the art of making the drink. The fact that it doesn’t require electrical power means that you won’t have to pay any extra bills.

Pros

  • The machine is durable
  • It is easy to use
  • It doesn’t require electricity
  • It is portable

Con

  • Not ideal for those who only make espresso for the sake of it; and not because they love the craft

 

3. ROK EspressoGC

This manual espresso machine comes with some pretty impressive features.

To begin with, it has an upgraded piston gasket that allows it to perform at a high pressure to make the quality espresso that you deserve. Then, the pressure chamber comes with a BPA-free glass composite that renders better insulation. With it, your espresso will always be as hot as you want it.

Another feature which many espresso enthusiasts like is the silicone shower screen, which has smaller holes plus precision placement. They make clean and perfect extraction possible. There are four keys located on the back so that leaking will never be a problem you have to deal with.

The stainless steel portafilter enables you to choose the freshly ground coffee beans of your choice. To make sure that you can comfortably brew your espresso, this machine has four rubber legs on its bottom to prevent slipping.

ROK EspressoGC comes with a polished metal finish that not only enhances its durability but also makes it beautiful. In addition to that, it is compact, and it will take up only a little space in your kitchen. Also, transporting it should not give you a hard time.

Pros

  • Delivers great espresso
  • It is portable and easy to store
  • It is slip-resistant
  • It is beautiful and long-lasting

Con

  • Only available in select countries outside the United States

 

4. Rok Manual Espresso Maker Silver

If you are looking for a dual-purpose manual espresso machine, this one is worth trying. You can use it to make your favorite espresso, as well as coffee. It comes with a classic silver color that makes it pretty appealing.

Its ease of clean makes it ideal for you, especially if you are not a fan of cleaning. You will only take some minutes doing it, and you can go back to your other chores. You may also like the fact that it comes with a manual milk frother. If you love lattes and cappuccinos as much as your espresso, you can make them at any time.

With the coffee scooper, you can carefully measure the amount that you desire to use. It allows you to achieve a flavor that you prefer.  On top of that, it is also affordable, especially if you are looking for an espresso maker below $300.

Pros

  • It is appealing
  • Requires a few minutes to clean
  • A milk frother accompanies it
  • The machine is affordable

Con

  • The pump is not of the highest quality

 

5. La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine

Do you love making coffee specialty drinks at home or work? Here is a machine designed to meet your needs.  You can make the most delicious cup of espresso at the pull of the lever. The espresso maker comes with a strong all-steel body and heavy chrome plating so that you can use it for the longest time possible.

You can comfortably use this machine to make cappuccino; because it comes with an automatic milk foamer. Use it to make a milk foam whose thickness and richness fits your desires. To control the temperature of your drinks, feel free to use the available internal thermostat.

Cleaning this machine will never be too big a task for you. With its removable drip tray and water tank, it should only take you several minutes. The espresso maker also comes with some amazing accessories. These include a tamper, measuring ladle, and screen holder.

Even if you have never operated this machine before, do not hesitate to buy it. It comes with an instructional video that you can follow when using it for the first time.

Pros

  • Makes tasty espresso
  • Easy to clean
  • You can control your drink’s temperature
  • Comes with an instructional video for first-time users

Con

  • Not suitable for those looking for extra-large water tanks since this machine’s can only hold 20 ounces

 

6. La Pavoni PA-1200 Napolitana Stainless Steel Automatic Espresso Machine

With a gloss finish, this is one of the most beautiful espresso machines from La Pavoni. On top of that, it has been built to last; its entire body comes with 18/8 stainless steel. Once you make your purchase, it will take a long time to need another espresso maker.

This is a semi-automatic machine designed for manual starting. It makes it convenient for espresso brewers looking for manual espresso makers that are also a little sophisticated.

With 16 bars of pressure for quality extraction, this espresso machine will undoubtedly deliver great-tasting espresso. There is the conical burr grinder designed to grind your coffee beans to your liking.

For easy cleaning and maintenance, the drip trays are removable. If you prefer a machine with a large water reservoir, you can pick this one. Its water tank capacity is 100 oz and hence, you can brew espresso even for day without having to refill it.

Pros

  • The machine is classy and long-lasting
  • It guarantees perfect espresso shots
  • It is effortless to maintain due to the simple cleaning procedure
  • It has a large water reservoir

Con

  • Only residents of select states outside the U.S. can access this espresso machine

 

7. La Pavoni PPG-16 Professional 16-Cup Espresso Machine

This is a stylish manual espresso machine that you can consider using to make espresso. With its lever, you can make up to 16 cups of quality drink; each holding 2 ounces. You will like the solid-brass boiler that produces fast heat-up times to make sure that you have your espresso in a good time.

With the reliable dual frothing system, you can make lattes and cappuccinos at your convenience. Operating the machine will always be easy because of the rosewood handles. They also give it its great look.

Another feature that may also impress you is the internal thermostat. With it, you are in control of your latte’s/cappuccino’s/espresso’s temperature. If you are this machine’s first-time user, you have little to worry about. Once you purchase it, you get an instructional DVD that will guide you on the operation.

Pros

  • Can brew many cups of quality espresso
  • Can also make lattes and cappuccinos
  • Comes with a guidance video
  • The machine is easy to operate

Con

  • Makes a lot of noise when making cappuccinos

 

8. La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine

This is an excellent manual machine because it comes with quality and style. It has a beautiful design plus a chrome base to offer stability whenever you are brewing espresso. To prevent you from experiencing any problems with moisture, the base has a light polish. The machine also features classic wood handles to make operation simpler.

This espresso maker has a steaming mechanism that is pretty awesome. You can interchange the steam jet with the espresso maker’s automatic cappuccino system. Hence, making cappuccinos, lattes, and other hot drinks will be effortless.

With the 38-ounce boiler, the La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine requires minimum maintenance. It makes sure that there are only a few effects of the limescale deposits. On top of that, La Pavoni equipped the espresso maker with a manometer for checking the boiler’s pressure.

There is a manual and instructional video that you will get once you buy this professional-style, classic machine. With it, you do not need any prior experience in operating it. It will guide you, step by step, on how you should do it.

Pros

  • The machine has a stylish design
  • It is quality and promises barista-style espressos and cappuccinos
  • It comes with a manual to help first-timers
  • Using it is uncomplicated

Con

  • Not ideal for users looking for fully automated espresso makers

 

9. European Gift La Pavoni Professional Espresso Machine

With an internal thermostat, you are in total control of the pressure when you are making espresso using this quality manual machine. Feel free to use the internal re-set switch if there is overheating. It can make 16, 2-ounce cups of drinks; delivering one or two at a time.

The European Gift La Pavoni Professional Espresso Machine has a solid chrome boiler. With it, you can perfectly heat the water when making espressos or cappuccinos. With the chrome finish, you can stare at this machine all day, and it deserves its space in your small, urban kitchen. There is a decorative eagle that is mounted on the espresso machine’s dome to add to its style.

You might be impressed by the accessories that accompany this manual espresso maker from European Gift. These include a tamper to pack your espresso grounds, a scoop as well as two filter baskets.

Pros

  • The machine delivers quality drinks
  • It is stylish
  • It has a quality boiler
  • It comes with fantastic additional features like tampers

Con

  • Warming up from a cold start takes 8-9 minutes which might be too long for users who are used to automatic machine’s fast heat-up times

 

10. Elektra – Microcasa a leva Espresso

This is a beautiful chrome machine that is worth buying. It is large and has a 10-inch diameter base that allows for stability when you are brewing a delicious cup of espresso. With the water level sight glass that it comes with, you’ll never have to struggle to see the water level in the boiler.

Moreover, there is a pressure gauge that shows you the boiler’s steam pressure.  The boiler itself is efficient. It delivers dry steam for you to use when creating a microfoam. You will know when it is the perfect time to extract espresso because the needle in the green zone always gives an indication.

This manual espresso maker is unbelievably easy to use. The only part that requires assembling is the steam wand whenever you are making cappuccinos and lattes.

Pros

  • The machine produces tasty espresso and espresso-based drinks
  • It is easy to use
  • You can always view the boiler’s water level
  • Has a steam wand to froth milk

Con

  • The drip tray is not big enough for users who prefer large drip trays

 

11. Quickmill Andreja Premium Espresso Machine

Quality best defines this manual espresso machine. It is precisely why you need to get it to make espresso before you head to work or the gym. With its die-casted water recirculation feature and the stainless steel material, the espresso maker is exceptionally durable.

There are separate nozzles for steam and water for ultimate convenience. They also have capacity regulating taps so that you can comfortably measure the amount of each that you desire. The heater’s capacity is 0.75 liters, and there is a manometer at the front for you to view the boiler’s pressure.

The frother is quality, and you can depend on it every time you are making a cappuccino or latte. The froth is creamy; just what you need for the drinks. There is a continuous supply of water when you are using the machine, but should you run out of it, the automatic stop will let you know.

This machine is consistent and easy to use.  You should not hesitate to get it off the market. It is also beautiful, and it will undoubtedly make your kitchen space look better.

Pros

  • This machine is long-lasting
  • It guarantees delicious espresso, lattes, and cappuccino
  • The frother delivers rich froth
  • It is reliable

Con

  • The heat exchanger is not of the highest quality

 

Best Manual Espresso Machine Buying Guide

As mentioned above, the manual espresso machines available on the market are countless. Selecting one that perfectly suits you may not always be easy. Before you settle for a particular espresso maker, think carefully about the following things.

Water tank capacity

How often do you drink espresso? If you cannot do without it, you will definitely make a lot of cups during the day, and even at night. To prevent having to refill the water reservoir after every hour, look for a machine with a large water tank that can hold a liter or two. If you make espresso like once or twice in a day, you can go for a manual espresso machine with a smaller water tank.

 Simplicity

Manual espresso machines are usually simple, but some are simpler than others. How do you use the machine? Ensuring that you buy an espresso maker that is easy to operate enables you to spend less time making your drink. Also, you may consider the cleaning process of the machine. If the brew group is removable, it is going to be a piece of cake.

Milk frother

This is a feature that latte and cappuccino enthusiasts must look out for. Some manual espresso makers come with milk frothers/milk steam wands/cappuccino systems, while others do not. Buying your machine blindly may make you buy one without this feature. If you don’t like lattes or cappuccino, you may buy an espresso maker without a milk frothing system since you might not use it.

Budget

When purchasing a manual espresso machine, you also have to put into consideration the amount of money you have/had planned to spend. The espresso maker’s price may be below $100, but it can also be more than $1000. How much can you spend without forgetting about other items on your priority list?

As you try to stick to your budget, do not overlook features that you don’t like about a certain machine. Eventually, meeting your needs should come first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I control the amount of water that my manual espresso machine uses?

Yes. You can control the water used in every shot, and pretty much everything else.

  • What features come with manual espresso machines?

Most espresso machines come with boilers, portafilter, steam pressure gauges as well as a manual lever. Some also have additional features like coffee scoopers.

  • How do manual espresso machines operate?

Manual espresso machines operate using manual generated pressure to facilitate the extraction process when you are brewing your drink.

  • Do manual espresso machines consume electricity?

No. The espresso makers do not require electric power to brew espresso.

  • Can I bring my manual espresso machine to work?

Yes. Most of them are compact and portable. Hence, it will be easy to carry them in your bag when heading to your workplace.

Manual espresso machines grant you full control over the espresso brewing process. They allow you to perfect the espresso-making craft. Other benefits include the fact that they are easy to operate, and they don’t use electricity. When making your pick, make sure that it has convenient features to help you make your drink.