If you're new to making espresso at home, choosing the right machine can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, how do you know which one is best for a beginner? We've done the research for you and compiled a list of the best espresso machines that are easy to use, affordable, and perfect for getting started. Whether you want a simple press-button machine or you're ready to learn the art of tamping and steaming, we have something for you.
1. Breville Bambino Plus – The Best Overall Beginner Machine
The Breville Bambino Plus is a fantastic choice for beginners who want a high-quality espresso without a steep learning curve. This machine offers automatic milk frothing, fast heat-up time, and a compact design, making it ideal for small kitchens. With a 3-second heat-up time and precise espresso extraction, it delivers café-quality results with minimal effort.
Pros:Â Quick heat-up time, automatic frothing, compact size
Cons:Â No built-in grinder, requires some manual tamping
 2. Nespresso VertuoPlus – The Easiest to Use
If convenience is your priority, the Nespresso VertuoPlus is the perfect choice. This machine uses Nespresso’s capsule system, which means you can make a delicious espresso with just the press of a button. It automatically adjusts brewing parameters based on the capsule type, ensuring consistent results every time.
Pros:Â Extremely easy to use, no mess, consistent results
Cons:Â Limited to Nespresso capsules, lacks milk frothing for lattes
 3. De’Longhi Dedica – Best for Learning Barista Skills
For those who want a more hands-on experience, the De’Longhi Dedica is an excellent entry-level semi-automatic machine. It allows you to manually control the grind size, tamping pressure, and milk steaming, making it a great option for learning barista skills. Plus, it has a slim, stylish design that fits well in any kitchen.
Pros:Â Compact, manual control, great for learning
Cons:Â Requires a separate grinder, steeper learning curve
4. Gaggia Classic Pro – Best Budget Espresso Machine
If you’re looking for an affordable machine that still delivers solid performance, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a great option. This machine has a commercial-style portafilter and steam wand, giving you more control over your shots and milk frothing. It's an excellent starting point for those who want to experiment with real espresso making on a budget.
Pros:Â Affordable, sturdy build, commercial-style features
Cons: Takes practice to master, no automatic frothing
5. Breville Barista Express – Best All-in-One Machine
If you want an all-in-one solution with a built-in grinder, the Breville Barista Express is the way to go. It simplifies the espresso-making process by including a grinder, precise temperature control, and a powerful steam wand for milk frothing. It’s the perfect option for those who want to start with everything they need in one machine.
Pros:Â Built-in grinder, customizable settings, great for beginners and advanced users
Cons:Â Higher price point, slightly larger footprint
Final Thoughts
The best espresso machine for you depends on your personal preferences and how much effort you want to put into making your coffee. If you want a no-fuss experience, the Nespresso VertuoPlus is unbeatable in convenience. If you're ready to dive into the world of espresso making, the Breville Bambino Plus or De’Longhi Dedica are excellent choices. And if you want an all-in-one solution, the Breville Barista Express is hard to beat.
No matter which machine you choose, making espresso at home is a rewarding experience that will save you money and let you enjoy café-quality coffee anytime. Ready to get started? Check out our top picks available online now!