Hello and welcome to our friendly guide on the “Best Espresso Machine Under $500” for 2023!
To make the best espresso at home, you need a machine that strikes a nice mix between science and art, and we can help you choose one.
As someone who knows a thing or two about coffee gear, I’m super excited to share with you a handpicked collection of espresso machines that are budget-friendly and under $500.
We chose the Gaggia Classic Pro as our top pick because it performs so well, looks great, and isn’t too expensive.
That being said, we know that coffee lovers have different tastes and needs. As a result, we’ve found several other great choices that will fit your specific needs.
Join us as we review the 6 best espresso machines for under $500.
Top 6 Best Espresso Machines Under $500
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Gaggia Classic Pro | Commercial-grade Portafilter Three-way Solenoid Valve Pannarello Steam Wand 58mm Portafilter | Check Price |
 | Gaggia Brera | Built-in Grinder Intuitive Push-button Controls Rapid Steam Technology Adjustable Coffee Strength | Check Price |
 | Breville Bambino Pro | Automatic Milk Frothing Fast Heat-up Time Compact Footprint Precise Espresso Extraction | Check Price |
 | Breville Duo Temp Pro | Precise PID Temperature Control Stainless Steel Construction Pre-infusion Function 360-degree Swivel Steam Wand | Check Price |
 | Flair Pro 2 | Manual Lever Espresso Maker Detachable Stainless Steel Brewing Head Pressure Gauge Compact Design | Check Price |
 | Calphalon Temp IQ | Thermoblock Heating Technology Adjustable Steam Wand Large Water Reservoir ESE Pod Compatible | Check Price |
Table of Contents
1. Gaggia Classic Pro
The Gaggia Classic Pro is our top pick for the best espresso machine under $500 because it is both cheap and robust.
You might think of it as a reliable sidekick for your espresso.
We included it in our guide to the best espresso machine under $500 because it has just three switches and is therefore ideal for people who are new to making espresso.
You don’t need a fancy grinder because it comes with a great brass portafilter. Quick and easy preparation is possible with either pre-ground coffee or ESE pods.
This machine’s commercial-sized 58-mm portafilter makes it fast and compact without sacrificing power.
Some newer machines may be easier to use, but this one is built to last, which makes it a great choice as the best espresso machine under $500.
Furthermore, you can improve it with various add-ons, such as a PID, which provides extra cool features.
There is only one boiler in the Gaggia Classic Pro, so it doesn’t need a thermoblock heater. This gives it more steam power, another reason why it’s in our top picks for the best espresso machine under $500.
The steam stick can turn in any direction, so you can make any latte art for your friends who love coffee.
Pros
Cons
Perfect for
2. Gaggia Brera
The super-automatic Gaggia Brera is a popular pick for the best espresso machine under $500 due to its convenience.
Its built-in ceramic burr grinder with five grind settings and a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee and decaf make it stand out.
This Italian super-automatic espresso machine has a grinder built in that changes the sharpness of the grind based on the coffee beans you use, so your shots will always be the same.
This function improves the espresso experience for people looking for the best espresso machine under $500.
Even beginners can make creamy milk froth for lattes and cappuccinos using a pannarello steam wand. The steam wand may also dispense hot water for teas and Americanos.
The Brera’s manual milk frother might be difficult for beginners to use, especially with a steam wand.
Creating detailed latte art may be difficult, but it’s a terrific alternative for people looking for the best espresso machine under $500 for home usage.
Rapid steam technology speeds up heat-up and switching between brewing and steaming, and the steam wand automatically froths milk. This improves the user experience and is useful for finding the best espresso machine for around $500.
The Brera’s drip tray and front-accessible water tank simplify maintenance. Its user-friendly design streamlines your espresso routine.
Pros
Cons
Perfect for
3. Breville Bambino Pro
The Breville Bambino Plus is one of the best contenders for the best espresso machine under $500. It is a simple espresso maker that makes great espresso.
The automatic milk frother is one of its best features; it lets you change the temperature and taste of your milk.
You only need to put the steam stick into the milk jug, and the Bambino Plus will do the rest.
At first glance, the Bambino Plus may seem like a normal semi-automatic machine, but it is full of great technology, which makes it a great choice for home baristas.
It has cutting-edge PID temperature technology that makes sure you always get great shots without having to worry about temperature control.
It’s easy to make a great espresso with the Bambino Plus In a portafilter, measure, grind, and press your coffee grounds.
Press a button and connect the portafilter to the machine. The hands-free milk warming feature makes it even easier to use, making it one of the best espresso machines out there.
Its espresso might be better than what you’d find in a specialty coffee shop, but for a home machine, it’s great.
There is a great mix between price and performance in the Breville Bambino Plus, making it a top choice for espresso lovers looking for the best espresso machine under $500.
Pros
Cons
Perfect for
4. Breville Duo Temp Pro
The semi-automatic Breville Duo Temp Pro espresso machine has high-end features without costing a lot of money.
It’s a great choice for the best espresso machine under $500.
It has a built-in PID temperature control that makes sure every shot brews at the same temperature and a low-pressure pre-infusion that gets the most flavor out of your coffee beans.
Though the Duo Temp Pro is a great machine, we think the Gaggia Brera Infuser type is slightly better because it has more features for the same price.
This machine was easy to use and performed very well, leaving a strong impact. If you’re looking for the best espresso machine under $500, this is a strong option.
To make espresso, all you have to do is add ground coffee to the portafilter, level it, and tamp it down, then put it into the machine.
To start and stop the shot, all you have to do is turn a knob. Even if you don’t prepare the puck perfectly, the automatic low-pressure pre-infusion will still give you a great result.
The Breville Duo Temp lets you make more than just espresso. It can also make cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and Americanos.
You can be a barista in your own home with this machine.
The Duo Temp has a 15-bar Italian pump, manual tamping and extraction with shot volume control, a steam wand for foaming, and a large 60-ounce water tank.
Keep in mind that it doesn’t have a built-in grinder, which is one way in which it falls short of the Brera.
Pros
Cons
Perfect for
5. Flair Pro 2
The Flair Pro 2 is our fifth pick for the best espresso machine under $500. It’s beautifully made, light, and easy to move around.
Even though it’s not very heavy, it’s surprisingly strong, especially in key places like the brew head and basket.
Because it requires manual operation, the Flair Pro 2 is unique. It doesn’t use electricity to brew.
Instead, people’s labor-intensive efforts produce impressive pressures of six to nine bars.
If it receives nine bars, it satisfies the requirements for authentic espresso set forth by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).
The pressure gauge is a useful tool for keeping the pressure steady and making delicious espresso, though it might take some practice to get the hang of it.
The Flair Pro 2 is surprisingly easy to use for a machine that you have to do by hand.
It has a pressure scale that lets you control your espresso extraction in real-time, pre-infuse the coffee, and create pressure profiles.
I had the chance to review the last one, the Pro 1, and I was very pleased with it. The Pro 2 goes one step further by having a better basket design.
One problem with the Flair Pro 2 is that it lacks the tools you need to make milk-based drinks. You will need to buy a different steamer if you like lattes.
But if you only want to make espresso, this is a great choice for the best espresso machine under $500.
Pros
Cons
Perfect for
6. Calphalon Temp IQ
For baristas on a budget, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is the best choice. It is known for being the best espresso machine under $500.
The efficient Thermoblock heating method in this espresso maker makes it stand out because it can heat up very quickly.
With this espresso machine, you won’t have to wait too long for your morning coffee.
Additionally, its PID control feature, which is essential for keeping the water temperature stable, is a big part of making sure that each espresso shot is delicious.
When it comes to making coffee, the Calphalon Temp iQ does a great job. It happily shows off a wide 58mm portafilter designed in the style of a professional machine.
This makes sure that your coffee grounds are brewed evenly. To make a smooth and full-flavored espresso, it’s important to get an even extraction.
The attractive low price of this espresso machine does, however, come with some trade-offs.
The machine is built to be strong and reliable, but its case is made of plastic instead of metal, like more expensive machines.
On top of that, its interface is very simple, with simple dial controls instead of the more current touch-screen displays.
These choices in the design don’t make it less useful, but they do show that the machine was made with cost-effectiveness in mind.
Not only is the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine easy to use, it also looks great.
Following the machine’s instructions, you can go about your daily life while it makes the coffee.
Its dial lets you choose between a single shot and a double shot, which is convenient and gives you options.
When your espresso is ready, you can either add hot water to make an Americano or use the steam wand to foam milk to make several other specialty drinks.
Pros
Cons
Perfect for
Buying Guide for the Best Espresso Machine Under $500
If you’re on the hunt for the best espresso machine under $500, you’re in the right place. Finding the perfect espresso maker within your budget is an exciting endeavor. To ensure you make the right choice, let’s explore the key factors to consider in this comprehensive buying guide.
Determine Your Espresso Style
Before delving into espresso machine options, it’s essential to understand your preferred espresso style. Do you favor classic single or double shots, or are you more inclined toward creamy lattes and cappuccinos? Your espresso preferences will be a guiding factor in your decision-making process.
Semi-Automatic vs. Super-Automatic
Espresso machines come in two primary categories: semi-automatic and super-automatic. Let’s clarify the distinction between these two types:
- Semi-Automatic Machines: These espresso makers grant you more control over the brewing process. You grind the coffee, tamp it into the portafilter, and manually initiate and terminate the brewing cycle. If you relish the hands-on aspect of making espresso and love experimenting with various variables, a semi-automatic machine is an excellent choice.
- Super-Automatic Machines: Super-automatics are designed to take care of most tasks for you. They often include built-in grinders, streamlining the process from grinding to brewing. With just a button press, they can grind, tamp, brew, and even froth milk if your preference leans towards milk-based espresso beverages. Super-automatics offer unparalleled convenience.
Space Considerations
The physical dimensions of your chosen espresso machine are crucial. If your kitchen has limited counter space, you’ll need a machine that fits comfortably. Keep in mind that super-automatic machines tend to be larger due to their added features, so size is a critical factor.
The Significance of a Built-In Grinder
The presence of a built-in grinder is a game-changer, particularly for semi-automatic machines. If you opt for a semi-automatic, you’ll need a separate grinder. On the other hand, super-automatic machines often come equipped with built-in grinders, allowing you to use freshly ground coffee beans for every shot.
Milk Frothing Options
For fans of lattes and cappuccinos, understanding how the machine handles milk is paramount. Some espresso machines feature manual steam wands for frothing, offering manual control over milk texture. In contrast, super-automatic machines usually have automatic milk frothing systems for added convenience.
Temperature Control with PID
To produce exceptional espresso consistently, maintaining a stable brewing temperature is essential. Espresso machines with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control technology excel at precisely managing temperatures, contributing to a flawless espresso shot.
Assess Water Reservoir Size
The size of the water reservoir impacts how often you need to refill it, particularly when entertaining guests. While a larger reservoir means fewer refills, it may result in a bulkier machine. Reflect on your daily usage and whether you plan to brew espresso for a group.
Easy Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning is a part of espresso machine ownership, and some machines simplify this task. Espresso makers with self-cleaning features save you valuable time and effort. Additionally, machines with removable and accessible components are generally more straightforward to clean.
Trustworthy Brand and Support
Considering the reputation of the brand is essential. Seek brands with a history of manufacturing reliable espresso machines, excellent customer support, and easy access to spare parts.
Conclusion
In the world of espresso, being cheap doesn’t mean giving up quality.
Our review of the best espresso machines under $500 has shown that you can enjoy great espresso without spending a lot of money.
Each of the machines we looked at has its own set of features that make it a good choice for your kitchen counter.
The Gaggia Classic Pro is our favorite. This espresso machine shows the high level of Italian skill that has been known for many years in the coffee world.
Gaggia’s classic style is combined with modern convenience in the Gaggia Classic Pro, which makes espressos that are just as good as those from your favorite café.
But this wasn’t the end of our journey.
We also have the Gaggia Brera, the Breville Bambino Plus, the Breville Duo Temp Pro, the Flair Pro 2, and the Calphalon Temp iQ. Each of these tools has its benefits.
That depends on your tastes and needs, such as how easy it is to use or how well you know how to do things by hand.
The best espresso machine under $500 is the one that fits in with your coffee routine and makes you happy with every fragrant shot.
Let out your inner bartender and make some magic with espresso at home.
FAQs
Related Articles
Best Super-Automatic Espresso Machines Under $1000
