In the world of coffee lovers, the quest for the perfect espresso can be both delightful and daunting.
While premium espresso machines can cost a small fortune, there’s good news for those on a budget.
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a quality espresso in the comfort of your home.
In this blog post, we will introduce you to 12 espresso machines that cost less than $200.
These affordable espresso machines offer a fantastic balance between price and performance, making it possible for you to enjoy your daily caffeine fix without emptying your wallet.
12 Best Espresso Machines Under $200: At A Glance
- Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista: Best Overall
- De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso Machine: Best Value For Money
- Flair Classic Espresso Maker: Best Manual Espresso Maker
- De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine: Best Budget Choice
- Nespresso Vertuo Breville Espresso Machine: Best Capsule-Based
- Nespresso Pixie Original Espresso Machine: Best Compact Choice
- Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker: Best Design
- WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker: Best For Travellers
- ILAVIE 20 Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Steamer
- Gevi 20 Bar High-Pressure Commercial Espresso Machine
- KLARSTEIN Passionata Rossa Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
- Capresso 124.01 Ultima Pro
Why Choose Budget Espresso Machines?
While high-end espresso machines come with a host of advanced features and exquisite craftsmanship, budget espresso machines offer distinct advantages that cater to specific preferences and situations.
Here’s why some people prefer to buy budget espresso machines:
Affordability
Budget espresso machines are considerably cheaper than their high-end counterparts, making them accessible to a wider range of coffee enthusiasts.
They provide an affordable entry point into the world of making espresso at home.
Long-Term Savings
Over time, the savings from brewing your own coffee can be significant compared to buying daily cups from coffee shops.
The cost of a daily coffee shop visit can quickly add up, especially if you prefer specialty espresso drinks.
By investing in a budget espresso machine, you not only reduce your daily coffee expenses, but you also gain the flexibility to choose your coffee beans and experiment with various espresso recipes.
Simplicity
Budget espresso machines often feature straightforward, user-friendly designs.
They typically have fewer complex settings, which can be advantageous for beginners who prefer a hassle-free espresso-making experience.
Compact Size
Many budget espresso machines are compact and space-saving, making them ideal for smaller kitchens or spaces where countertop real estate is limited.
Learning Experience
For those new to the world of home espresso, budget machines provide an opportunity to learn and experiment without a substantial financial commitment.
This learning curve can be rewarding for coffee enthusiasts looking to develop their barista skills.
Backup or Travel Machine
Many coffee lovers who already own high-end espresso machines choose to have a budget machine as a backup or for travel.
It’s a convenient way to enjoy decent espresso in various settings without risking their expensive equipment.
1. Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista: Best Overall
At the top of the list as our best pick for an espresso machine under $200, we have the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista.
This espresso machine is a fantastic choice for those of you on a budget.
The Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is an automatic espresso machine that comes equipped with a 15-bar pump system.
It not only brews delicious espresso but also froths milk to perfection for cappuccinos and lattes.
One of the great things about this machine is that it’s user-friendly, making it an excellent option for beginners.
Priced at around $200, it offers affordability without compromising on quality.
With its volume control feature, you can easily decide whether you want a single-shot or a double-shot espresso with a simple button press.
If you’re familiar with espresso machines, you know that a good shot of espresso is the foundation for a wide range of specialty drinks, and the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista excels in this regard.
Its standout feature is the automatic milk frother, complete with a milk reservoir and a special steam wand tip.
This handy addition allows you to effortlessly steam and froth milk, taking the hassle out of creating your favorite coffee beverages.
In summary, the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is a fantastic bargain for anyone who wants to enjoy authentic espresso-based drinks without breaking the bank.
It’s a reliable and convenient choice that guarantees delicious lattes at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at a coffee shop.
Pros
- Easy to use and beginner-friendly
- Automatic milk frother for simplified frothing
- Compatible with both fresh coffee and pods
- One-press milk frothing
- Attractive price point
Cons
- Inconsistent brewing temperature and pressure
- Limited advanced features
- Relatively higher plastic content
2. De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso Machine: Best Value For Money
The De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso Machine is your gateway to crafting delightful coffee drinks.
This manual espresso machine is a versatile wonder, capable of brewing single or double espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes.
What sets it apart is the cappuccino system, featuring an advanced manual frother.
This frother expertly blends and steams milk, delivering that perfect, rich, and creamy froth for consistently delicious beverages. It’s all about that texture.
Operating at a solid 15 bars of pressure, this machine ensures that your espressos taste just as they should – rich and full of flavor.
The water tank holds a generous 37 fluid ounces, and it’s designed for simplicity.
Easily remove, refill, and reattach it, all while keeping an eye on the water level with clear visibility, so no guesswork is required.
The De’Longhi combines compactness with affordability, making it a perfect choice for coffee beginners.
Its user-friendly interface, easy cleaning, and adjustable cup height add to its charm.
To suit your preference, it comes with a three-in-one filter holder.
You’ve got a holder for a single espresso shot, one for double shots, and even one for easy-serve espresso pods. Versatility at your fingertips.
With its sleek profile, compact design, and narrow footprint, this espresso machine is a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop.
It won’t hog space but will certainly elevate your coffee game.
Overall, this espresso machine offers excellent value for money and for under 200, it’s definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Fast heat-up time for quick espresso brewing
- Convenient built-in milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes
- Ideal starter machine for beginners
- Compatible with espresso soft pods
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Tricky water reservoir that requires precise positioning
- Frother may not produce the best foam
- Risk of clogging with too fine grind or over-tamping
3. Flair Classic Espresso Maker: Best Manual Espresso Maker
The Flair Classic Espresso Maker is a 100% manual, human-powered espresso adventure that’s eco-friendly and highly portable.
Crafted from robust materials like cast aluminum and stainless steel, it’s a durable companion that’s built to stand the test of time.
While the Flair Classic is beginner-friendly, be prepared to invest some effort, a few materials, and a bit of patience.
Brewing with this beauty is more like preparing a home-cooked meal rather than opting for takeout or the microwave.
It’s a hands-on experience that’s worth it for true coffee connoisseurs.
Everything you need for brewing café-quality espresso at home comes right in the box, and it’s conveniently portable, complete with a precision-cut, padded carrying case.
Take your manual espresso maker on the go – your coffee cravings won’t be bound by location.
The Flair Classic is a direct lever espresso machine that’s approachable for beginners, although it might have a slight learning curve.
If you’re after top-notch, handcrafted espresso, this lifelong companion will serve you well.
However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t include a milk steaming option, so you’d need a separate device for that (or get creative with a French press, like some coffee enthusiasts).
The workflow may seem a bit intricate at first, and to unlock its full potential, a decent grinder is a must.
If you’re using a blade grinder or something similar, the more budget-friendly Flair Neo could be your better bet.
But when paired with the right grinder and a bit of skill, the Flair Espresso Maker truly shines.
Plus, there’s a thriving community of Flair fans out there, sharing their recipes and tips online, so you’ll never run out of inspiration.
Pros
- Produces excellent espresso
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel or occasional use
- Affordable and offers value for money
- No electricity required
- Sleek and attractive design
Cons
- It’s a Learning curve, especially for beginners
- Lacks built-in grinder or milk frother
- Requires additional equipment like a kettle for optimal performance
4. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine: Best Budget Choice
The De’Longhi Stilosa is another delightful surprise from De’Longhi’s budget-friendly espresso machine lineup.
Yes, they do make affordable options, and the Stilosa is here to prove it.
The De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is a compact and cost-effective gem that brings the joy of brewing authentic specialty drinks right to your home.
Think lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso, all with the assurance of perfect extraction, thanks to its sturdy stainless steel boiler and that 15-bar pump pressure.
Using it is a breeze with a straightforward interface of buttons and dials.
Plus, it comes equipped with a manual milk frother and even a hot water dispenser, adding to its versatility.
The removable water reservoir can hold up to 33.8 fluid ounces (1.0 liter), and the 51mm portafilter features pressurized filter baskets.
What we love most is the sleek matte black finish, blending plastic and stainless steel to maintain affordability while ensuring crucial quality.
It’s a stylish addition to your modern kitchen without hogging counter space and is easy to keep clean.
Pros
- User-friendly and low-maintenance
- Space-saving compact design
- Includes manual milk frother for various coffee beverages
- Affordable price
- Sturdy and durable construction
Cons
- Limited adjustability impacting espresso quality
- The learning curve for the steam wand
- Comes with pressurized filter baskets only
5. Nespresso Vertuo Breville Espresso Machine: Best Capsule-Based
Let’s be upfront here – a Nespresso machine isn’t your typical espresso or coffee maker.
But it’s worth a mention because it offers a budget-friendly way to get a similar coffee fix.
Enter the Nespresso Vertuo Breville Espresso Machine, a versatile coffee and espresso companion that’s about to make your mornings easier.
This machine relies on Centrifusion™, a patented extraction method developed by Nespresso.
With just a tap of a button, it can brew four different cup sizes.
Whether you’re craving a quick pick-me-up or enough caffeine for an entire office, this machine’s got you covered.
Simply pop in a capsule, close the lever, and watch the magic happen.
The capsule spins at a rapid 7,000 rotations per minute, seamlessly blending ground coffee with water and delivering that perfect crema.
It’s all about getting a quality coffee experience, even in larger cups.
The Vertuo takes precision seriously and it uses capsule recognition and code reading tech to tailor the brewing parameters for each specific blend.
The result? A rich hazelnut-colored foam, or crema, naturally formed during the brewing process.
Style-wise, it’s available in various colors and boasts a modern, streamlined design with a small footprint.
The Vertuo is lightweight, tipping the scales at just 40 ounces.
It’s a cinch to operate and clean, thanks to its quick heating time, which reduces your overall brewing time.
For convenience, the detachable water tank makes refills easy, and here’s a nice touch – every new Nespresso machine comes with free capsules to kickstart your coffee journey with up to 12 servings.
They won’t last long, but it’s a pleasant surprise when you crack open the box.
Pros
- Detachable and adjustable brew tank for easy placement
- Well-designed and user-friendly machine
- Quick brewing cycle (approximately 1 minute)
- Energy-saving auto-off feature (9 minutes of inactivity)
- Available in various colors to complement modern kitchens
Cons
- Restricted to VertuoLine coffee pods
- Limited control and flexibility in the brewing process
- Espresso may not always be the hottest
6. Nespresso Pixie Original Espresso Machine: Best Compact Choice
The Nespresso Pixie is a small wonder in the world of coffee makers.
This capsule-based coffee machine is not only compact but also robust, making it a perfect fit for small spaces.
Despite its size, it’s packed with innovative features.
The Pixie boasts a rapid heating system that reaches the perfect temperature in just 25 seconds.
Plus, it’s energy-conscious, automatically powering off after 9 minutes of inactivity.
It offers the convenience of two programmable cup sizes for Espresso and Lungo, and you can customize the volumes to suit your taste with ease, thanks to the backlit one-touch buttons.
With a 19-bar high-pressure pump, the Pixie ensures a barista-style result, bringing out the delicate flavors and premium aromas from each coffee capsule.
The result? A dense and creamy crema that’s truly unmatched.
For those who enjoy various cup sizes, the folding drip tray accommodates your preferences.
The heat-resistant panel allows you to place the espresso machine right on top of the pod drawer without worry.
The Pixie also features a transparent 24-ounce (0.7-liter) removable water tank, so you can keep an eye on water levels.
The lid conveniently flips up for easy refilling and cleaning.
However, it’s important to note that the Pixie doesn’t offer milk steaming or hot water for tea.
If these are must-haves for you, consider a separate milk frother or another model.
Similar to the Vertuo, the Pixie comes in various colors and finishes, and you may find it sold under different brand names, thanks to Nespresso’s technology licensing.
This machine is an excellent choice for those seeking a more automated coffee process without the need for grinding, tamping, and extracting beans.
Pros
- Compact and stylish design
- User-friendly and programmable
- Quick start-up time
- Durable, scratch-resistant aluminum case
- Compatible with Nespresso original capsules
Cons
- Lacks a milk frother
- Not suitable for brewing larger cups of coffee
- Not the most sturdiest
7. Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker: Best Design
We get it, the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker isn’t exactly an espresso machine, but it can deliver that intense, robust coffee flavor you might be craving.
Plus, it comes with a milk frother attachment, so it’s like having a cappuccino machine and a coffee maker in one.
Let’s dive into the details of the Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker.
This versatile coffee maker offers you six different brewing sizes, from a single serve to a full carafe.
It’s not just about quantity; it’s about quality too.
You can choose from four distinct brew styles: classic, rich, over-ice, and specialty.
The specialty option is where the magic happens – it brews a super-rich coffee concentrate that forms the base for your lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and other coffeehouse-style delights.
This coffee maker also includes a fold-away frother, ready to turn your milk, whether hot or cold, into a silky-smooth froth.
No need for disposable filters either, as it comes with a gold-tone permanent filter built to handle your daily brewing needs.
Operating this machine is a breeze, and the quick start guide is straightforward.
The control panel is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring a Multi-Serve Dial for choosing your brew size and clearly marked buttons for each brew style.
When it comes to performance, the Ninja CM401 doesn’t disappoint.
It can whip up a full carafe of coffee in just 7 minutes.
Plus, the carafe is thoughtfully designed for easy handling and pouring, and the coffee maker aces convenience tests.
That means it’s a breeze to fill the water reservoir, insert the filter, and keep the machine clean.
The Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker is perfect for those who want a versatile coffee maker that can whip up a range of coffeehouse-style drinks, from lattes to iced coffee, all without the waste of coffee pods.
Pros
- Brews a variety of specialty drinks
- Simple control panel with clear options
- Easy to clean
- Ideal for multi-coffee drinker households with its 10-cup glass carafe
- Swift brewing – a full carafe in as little as 7 minutes
Cons
- Takes up considerable counter space
- “Rich” setting may lead to bitter or burned coffee, as per some reviewers
- Lack of a milk steamer, necessitating separate milk heating
8. WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker: Best For Travellers
The WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker is a little powerhouse designed for reliability and top-notch performance.
Crafted from sturdy metals and robust materials, it’s built to last.
The Picopresso is the most compact and pro-oriented of WACACO’s portable espresso machines.
It measures a mere 4 x 3 x 3 inches and weighs in at just 0.77 pounds.
Despite its small size, it packs a punch.
Sporting a naked portafilter and an 18-gram, 52mm stainless steel basket commonly found on commercial machines, this espresso maker feels solid and well-constructed, even the plastic components have a substantial quality to them.
With a capacity of 2.70 ounces (80 milliliters), the Picopresso can whip up a double shot of espresso in under a minute.
It’s manually operated, meaning it doesn’t rely on batteries or electricity.
What sets it apart is its compatibility with ultra-fine coffee grinds, resulting in creamy shots bursting with rich flavors and captivating aromas.
The Picopresso is tailored for espresso enthusiasts who crave a portable coffee maker.
To make the most of it, you’ll need a good grinder and some extraction know-how.
However, if you have a small kitchen or want to venture into the world of espresso, it’s worth considering.
Customers love its durability, compactness, and coffee quality.
They rave about its well-built design, travel-friendliness, and user-friendliness.
But if you’re not mainly seeking a travel espresso maker and prefer a permanent kitchen fixture, the Flair Classic might be a better fit, given its more kitchen-friendly stand design.
Pros
- Compact and highly portable
- Capable of crafting authentic cafe-quality espresso
- Sturdy and long-lasting construction
- Features a naked portafilter and 18-gram, 52mm stainless steel basket like commercial machines
- Speedy double-shot espresso in under a minute
Cons
- Demands a steady hand and extraction know-how for optimal results
- Requires a good grinder for the best outcome
- Can become hot and uncomfortable to hold
9. ILAVIE 20 Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Steamer
Let’s take a look at the ILAVIE Espresso Machine, a newer player in the espresso market that combines affordability and style.
Priced well below our $200 budget, it packs an impressive set of technical features and specifications, making it a great deal for espresso lovers.
Equipped with a 20-bar high-pressure pump and a robust 1350W heating system, this machine excels at extracting rich crema and creating creamy milk froth in no time.
Whether you’re in the comfort of your home or office, this cappuccino machine can whip up lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites with ease.
Thanks to its powerful stainless steel steam wand, you can effortlessly release and blend steam with milk, resulting in a luscious, coffee-shop-quality froth.
The 1000ml large water tank lets you brew multiple espressos without constant refilling, and it’s easy to monitor the water level.
The removable drip tray accommodates larger cups, and the machine even keeps your cup warm for that fresh-brewed coffee experience.
When it’s time for cleanup, the removable accessories make it a breeze.
With a quick preheat time of 25-45 seconds, you can choose between single or double shots, and the machine automatically stops when you’ve got the perfect amount of espresso.
With two separate thermostat controls for water and milk foam temperature, it gives you the flexibility to customize your coffee just the way you like it.
Its compact design easily fits on any countertop.
Plus, its user-friendly button layout and straightforward operation make it an excellent choice for beginners.
It combines simplicity with top-notch coffee quality.
Pros
- Affordable with useful features
- Stainless steel steam wand for creamy milk froth
- Cup-warming function
- Quick preheat time
- Compact and user-friendly for beginners
Cons
- Some customers have complained about water tank leaks
- The steam wand is a bit too short
- Might take some time to get the hang of using it
10. Gevi 20 Bar High-Pressure Commercial Espresso Machine
The Gevi 20 Bar High-Pressure Espresso Machine is another fantastic option for those stepping into the world of at-home espresso brewing.
Its 20-bar high-pressure pump ensures fast and stable extraction, resulting in rich crema and fragrant espresso.
The powerful 1350W Thermoblock Fast Heating System keeps the espresso flowing and can froth milk as well, so you can have a delicious cup of coffee in just 45 seconds.
You’re in control with the manual steam wand, producing rich creamy froth and even latte art.
The 360° rotating stainless steel frothing wand adds to the convenience.
You have the flexibility to choose from one shot, double shots, or manually control the coffee amount.
Two separate thermostats maintain the perfect temperature for both espresso and frothed milk, ensuring your coffee and foam are just right.
The Gevi Espresso Machine keeps it simple with its user-friendly button layout and intuitive interface, making it perfect for beginners.
Its modern and solid design, crafted from SUS304 stainless steel, showcases clear functional buttons and an elegant white appearance, making it a great fit for any kitchen.
With a generous 1.2-liter water tank, you won’t be constantly refilling.
This machine is a solid choice for those new to the world of coffee.
It combines standard features with a powerful pump usually found in higher-end models, offering great value for coffee lovers looking for a budget-friendly option.
Gevi proves that quality espresso doesn’t have to break the bank, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced coffee aficionados alike.
Pros
- Affordable and suitable for beginners
- 360° rotating stainless steel frothing wand
- Adjustable coffee amount options
- Dual thermostats for ideal temperature control
- User-friendly and modern design
Cons
- The water tank is backloaded, requiring machine movement for refills
- Espresso may not reach the desired temperature
- Using the manual steam wand needs practice to achieve the best results
11. KLARSTEIN Passionata Rossa Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
The KLARSTEIN Passionata Rossa Espresso Machine is a coffee maker that’s not only practical but also adds a touch of style to your home, school, or office.
With its sleek design featuring brushed stainless-steel surfaces and colorful accents, it’s a great addition to your kitchen countertop or workplace.
Keeping things tidy is a breeze with the removable stainless-steel mesh drip tray and water tank, making cleaning up a snap.
This espresso machine boasts an intuitive design that’ll have you brewing your perfect cup in no time.
The steaming nozzle is a powerful milk frother, allowing you to create a range of drinks from authentic Italian cappuccinos to cortados.
Plus, you can easily adjust the nozzle to achieve your preferred milk texture.
The removable water tank is a generous 1.3 quarts (0.33 gallons), providing enough water for 6 cups of coffee.
The Passionata espresso maker ensures everyone stays caffeinated while minimizing frequent refills.
Pros
- Stylish design for home, school, or office use
- Easy-to-clean with removable drip tray and water tank
- Powerful milk frother for various coffee drinks
- Adjustable milk frothing to match personal preferences
- Generous 1.3-quart water tank, enough for 6 cups
Cons
- The handle and tray area have a somewhat flimsy feel
- The lightweight build may require one-handed support when inserting the handle
- The drip tray is really small, requiring frequent emptying
12. Capresso 124.01 Ultima Pro
The final entry on our list is the Capresso 124.01 Ultima Pro, a programmable pump espresso machine that takes your coffee experience to the next level.
This espresso wonder boasts a self-tamping portafilter and the ability to program cup sizes to your liking.
With a powerful 15-bar pump, it ensures you get that rich crema, the hallmark of a perfectly brewed espresso.
The Capresso 124.01 Ultima Pro lets you program two cup buttons independently, allowing you to set your preferred espresso size, up to 6 ounces.
Its polished stainless steel accents and robust build make it a stylish centerpiece for your kitchen.
While it might attract fingerprints and smudges, a quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps it looking pristine.
This machine goes the extra mile with its large warming platform, keeping your cups at the ideal temperature.
Integrated storage on top of the machine keeps your extra accessories neatly organized.
Checking the water level is a breeze thanks to the handy gauge window, and the drip tray overflow indicator prevents any messy surprises.
The removable 34-ounce water tank offers convenience, and the Capresso 124.01 Ultima Pro delivers excellent espresso.
It’s a substantial step up from more budget-friendly models, providing both quality and ease of use.
With illuminated icons on the operating buttons, it ensures a user-friendly experience, earning it praise from customers and reviewers alike.
Pros
- Programmable cup sizes for personalized espresso
- Stylish stainless steel design
- Large cup warming platform
- Integrated accessory storage
- User-friendly illuminated icons
Cons:
- Prone to fingerprints and smudges
- The plastic outer shell has a low-quality appearance and feel
- The lack of a removable drip tray can lead to a mess on the plastic surface
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Espresso Machine Under $200
Finding an affordable espresso machine under $200 that meets your needs can be a rewarding experience.
To make an informed decision, consider the following key factors when shopping for the perfect espresso machine within your budget.
Espresso Type and Brewing Method
Espresso machines vary in their brewing methods, with three primary types: manual, semi-automatic, and super-automatic.
Manual machines require hands-on operation and are popular among purists.
Semi-automatic machines offer a balance between manual control and convenience, while super-automatic machines automate the entire process.
Your choice should align with your preference for control and ease of use.
Pressure and Heating System
Espresso extraction relies on pressure, typically measured in bars.
Look for a machine with at least 15 bars of pressure to ensure a rich crema, the golden layer atop your espresso.
The heating system should be capable of maintaining a consistent and optimal brewing temperature, which is crucial for flavor and aroma.
Steam Wand and Milk Frothing
If you enjoy milk-based espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, a steam wand is essential.
Ensure the machine has a steam wand for frothing milk.
The quality of the steam wand and its ease of use are important factors, as they affect the texture and consistency of your milk froth.
Size and Footprint
Espresso machines come in various sizes, so consider the available space in your kitchen or wherever you plan to place the machine.
Compact models are suitable for smaller kitchens, while larger machines often offer additional features and capacity.
Make sure the machine fits comfortably in your chosen location.
Ease of Use and Control
User-friendliness is key, especially if you’re new to espresso brewing.
Look for a machine with an intuitive control panel and easy-to-understand settings.
Evaluate how straightforward it is to program and operate the machine.
Build Quality and Durability
Espresso machines should be built to withstand regular use and temperature fluctuations.
Stainless steel and quality plastics are common materials.
Pay attention to the overall build quality, as durable components and construction contribute to the machine’s longevity.
Coffee Quality and Consistency
Consistency in flavor and aroma is paramount.
Check for features like a quality grinder, temperature stability, and precise extraction settings.
High-quality components contribute to achieving consistent and exceptional espresso shots.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the machine’s performance and hygiene.
Consider machines with removable and easy-to-clean components, such as drip trays, water reservoirs, and portafilters.
User-friendly maintenance contributes to a hassle-free experience.
Price and Budget
The $200 price range offers a variety of espresso machines with different features and capabilities.
Set your budget and explore options within that range.
Balance your budget with the features that matter most to you, whether it’s manual control, milk frothing, or automated convenience.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Leverage customer reviews and recommendations.
Real-world experiences from other espresso enthusiasts can provide valuable insights into a machine’s performance, reliability, and ease of use.
Online reviews and discussions can guide you toward an espresso machine that’s highly rated by the espresso community.
The Verdict: What Is The Best Espresso Machine Under $200?
After careful consideration, the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista earned the title of the Best Espresso Machine under $200 due to its affordability, automatic milk frother, and user-friendly features.
Ultimately, the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista ticks all the boxes of what most people look for in a budget espresso machine, so unsurprisingly, it’s our favorite pick.
For those seeking the Best Value For Money, the De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso Machine impressed us with its compact design, reasonable price, and quality espresso shots.
Meanwhile, the Flair Classic Espresso Maker stood out as the Best Manual Espresso Machine under $200 for those willing to put in a little extra effort for authentic, handcrafted espresso.
FAQ’s
Can a cheap espresso machine make good coffee?
Absolutely! Many budget-friendly espresso machines, like the ones in our review, are capable of making excellent coffee.
They might lack some advanced features found in more expensive models, but with the right beans and proper technique, you can still enjoy a rich and flavorful espresso.
How long does a cheap espresso machine last?
The longevity of a budget espresso machine can vary depending on factors like build quality, maintenance, and usage.
On average, you can expect a well-maintained machine to last between 2 to 5 years. Regular cleaning and care can extend its lifespan.
What to look for in a cheap espresso machine?
When shopping for a budget espresso machine, consider factors like pressure (15 bars or more), milk frothing capabilities, build quality, ease of use, and overall coffee quality.
Ensure it aligns with your preferences and budget.
Is it worth investing in an espresso machine?
Investing in an espresso machine can be worthwhile if you’re an espresso enthusiast who enjoys daily cups of high-quality coffee.
It saves money in the long run compared to buying coffee from cafes and offers the convenience of making espresso at home.
What espresso machine do Italians use at home?
In Italy, many households use a moka pot, also known as a stovetop espresso maker.
It’s a traditional and affordable way to brew espresso-like coffee at home.
How much is a high-quality espresso machine?
High-quality espresso machines can range from $500 to several thousand dollars.
These machines often come with advanced features, exceptional build quality, and precise control over the brewing process.
How much money do you save making espresso at home?
The savings from making espresso at home depend on factors like coffee consumption and the cost of beans.
On average, you can save a significant amount compared to buying daily espresso from cafes, especially over the long term.
In a year, you can save anything from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on your caffeine consumption of course.
What is the best espresso machine for beginners?
For beginners, the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista stands out as an excellent choice due to its user-friendly design, automatic milk frother, and affordability.
It’s a great starting point for those new to home espresso-making.
Can a manual espresso maker make cappuccinos and lattes?
Yes, manual espresso makers like the Flair Classic Espresso Maker can create cappuccinos and lattes.
However, you’ll need to froth milk separately, either using a milk frother or another method, as manual espresso makers typically lack integrated milk frothing capabilities.
