If you’re a coffee aficionado seeking the ultimate brewing experience with a budget of under $2000, you’ve come to the right place.
Investing in a high-quality espresso machine can elevate your mornings, satisfy your caffeine cravings, and bring the café experience right into your kitchen.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a carefully curated selection of top-notch espresso machines that offer exceptional performance, reliability, and versatility, all within the $2000 price range.
Whether you’re an aspiring home barista or a coffee enthusiast looking to upgrade, join us as we navigate the realm of espresso machines under $2000 and help you find your perfect brewing companion.
Best Espresso Machine Under $2000: At A Glance
- Jura ENA 8: Best Overall
- Rancilio Silvia Pro X: Best For Simultaneous Brewing
- Breville Barista Touch: Best Semi-Automatic
- Gaggia Cadorna Prestige: Best Super-Automatic
- Jura ENA 4: Best Budget Option
- La Pavoni Professional: Best Manual Espresso Machine
- Jura WE6: Best For Offices
- Rocket Appartamento: Best Compact Option
- Jura E4: Best For Black Coffee
In-Depth Exploration: Unveiling the 9 Best Espresso Machines Under $2000
In this section, we will take a closer look at the top contenders in the under $2000 price range.
These machines have been carefully selected based on their outstanding features, performance, and value for money.
From renowned brands to innovative newcomers, we’ve gathered the best of the best to ensure your coffee brewing experience reaches new heights.
Jura ENA 8: Best Overall
The Jura ENA 8 is an impressive super-automatic espresso machine that combines sleek design, user-friendly functionality, and advanced technologies to deliver a delightful coffee experience.
Its compact size and elegant curved panels, available in Nordic White, Sunset Red, Metropolitan Black, or Massive Aluminum, make it a visually appealing addition to any kitchen.
Navigating the ENA 8’s menu is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive interface that allows you to effortlessly select and customize your desired coffee beverages.
The 2.8″ TFT color display provides a clear view of the options, which include 10 built-in specialty drinks like cappuccinos and latte macchiatos.
This machine is packed with cutting-edge features. The Professional Aroma Grinder and fine foam technology ensure that each cup of coffee is crafted to perfection.
With the Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.®) optimizing aroma extraction and the Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System (I.P.B.A.S.®) guaranteeing ideal brewing conditions, you can expect exceptional flavor profiles.
The Jura ENA 8 goes beyond its physical controls by offering compatibility with the J.O.E.® (JURA Operating Experience) app. This app allows you to conveniently operate the machine from your smartphone, giving you even more control and flexibility.
Additionally, the ENA 8 is equipped with the Intelligent Water System (I.W.S.®) featuring RFID technology. It automatically detects the appropriate CLEARYL Smart mini or CLEARYL Smart water filter, ensuring your water is always pristine for optimal taste.
While the Jura ENA 8 excels in convenience and automation, it is important to note that it may not suit those seeking full control over the espresso extraction process.
As a super-automatic machine, it handles most of the brewing parameters for you, which may not appeal to trained baristas or espresso enthusiasts desiring more hands-on involvement.
Pros
- Compact design perfect for countertops with limited space
- Stylish and visually appealing with premium materials and finishes
- User-friendly TFT screen and compatibility with the J.O.E.® app
- Effortlessly creates delicious coffee beverages with one-touch convenience
- Incorporates PEP and Fine Foam technology for enhanced flavor and texture
- Quiet grinding operation for a peaceful brewing experience
- Offers 10 fully customizable specialty coffees to cater to diverse preferences
Cons
- May not be ideal for individuals seeking complete control over coffee preparation
- The water reservoir and bean hopper have a relatively small capacity
Rancilio Silvia Pro X: Best For Simultaneous Brewing
The Rancilio Silvia Pro X is an excellent dual boiler espresso machine that brings the performance and thermal stability of Rancilio’s professional-grade models to the comfort of your home.
Built upon the foundation of the iconic Silvia line, this machine combines reliability, ease of use, and an elegant design that appeals to coffee enthusiasts at all levels.
One of the standout features of the Silvia Pro X is its soft infusion function.
This innovative feature allows water to be distributed at reduced pressure from the coffee boiler to the coffee panel, resulting in a smooth and efficient extraction process.
The duration of the soft infusion function is customizable, providing flexibility for achieving desired flavors and profiles.
Crafted with a sturdy stainless steel body, the Silvia Pro X boasts an ergonomic portafilter, insulated boilers, and a versatile multi-directional steam wand.
These components empower baristas to fine-tune their espresso shots with precision while generating powerful steam pressure for expert milk steaming.
Notably, the Silvia Pro X introduces several new features, including an updated portafilter and programmable pre-infusion capabilities.
These enhancements further enhance the machine’s versatility and customization options, allowing users to refine their brewing techniques according to their preferences.
Ideal for home coffee enthusiasts, offices, food trucks, small restaurants, and events, the Silvia Pro X delivers professional-grade performance in a compact package.
However, it is important to note that due to its mostly manual operation, it may not be the best choice for those seeking convenience and quick drink preparation.
Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that the Silvia Pro X does not include a built-in grinder, so users will need to acquire one separately or use pre-ground coffee.
Pros
- Dual boiler system with separate PID temperature controls for precise brewing and milk steaming
- Programmable pre-infusion function enhances flavor extraction
- Exceptional build quality ensures durability and reliability
- Larger and more standard-sized portafilter offers versatility in coffee dose and distribution
- Enables you to create cafe-quality espresso beverages in the comfort of your home
Cons
- Requires some knowledge of espresso extraction to fully utilize its capabilities
- Produces noticeable noise during operation compared to the original Rancilio Silvia
Breville Barista Touch: Best Semi-Automatic
When it comes to semi-automatic espresso machines, the Breville Barista Touch reigns as our top pick.
This exceptional machine achieves a remarkable blend of coffee quality and user-friendly functionality, making it a standout choice for home baristas of all skill levels.
The Barista Touch boasts several notable features that contribute to its outstanding performance.
With PID temperature control, a built-in conical burr grinder, and automatic pre-infusion, this machine ensures the optimal dose of freshly ground beans, precise temperature control, and ideal water pressure for impeccable espresso extraction.
Moreover, it excels at creating velvety microfoam milk, perfect for those seeking to master the art of latte art.
One of the remarkable aspects of the Barista Touch is its ability to simplify the coffee-making process while delivering consistently excellent results.
Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a complete beginner, the machine streamlines the workflow through its intuitive user interface.
With just a few touches, you can enjoy a perfectly crafted cappuccino or café latte tailored to your preferences.
The touchscreen display guides you through three easy steps: grinding, brewing, and milk frothing, while offering customization options for coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature.
In addition to its performance, the Barista Touch impresses with its quick heating capabilities, thanks to the thermojet heating system, which rapidly reaches the desired temperature in just three seconds.
This ensures minimal wait time, allowing you to indulge in your favorite coffee beverages without delay.
Embodying both durability and style, the Barista Touch features a compact stainless steel design that complements any kitchen aesthetic. Its clean and sleek appearance adds a touch of sophistication to your coffee brewing setup.
Pros
- Adjustable milk temperature and texture control for customized milk-based beverages
- Full-color touchscreen display provides intuitive and convenient operation
- Lightning-fast heat-up and automatic milk texturing streamline the brewing process
- Durable brushed steel construction ensures long-lasting performance
- Thermal protection system minimizes the risk of machine damage
- Consistently delivers high-quality espresso with each brew
- Customizable settings allow for personalized specialty coffee creations
Cons
- Lack of preheating system for mugs may result in less optimal drink temperatures
- Despite the intuitive interface, initial experimentation with settings such as grind size, extraction time, and water temperature may be necessary to achieve desired espresso quality
Gaggia Cadorna Prestige: Best Super-Automatic
As the top choice for the best super-automatic espresso machine, the Gaggia Cadorna Prestige is an exceptional Italian-made machine designed specifically for home baristas seeking ultimate convenience and coffee excellence.
Featuring a full-color TFT screen display with backlight buttons, the Cadorna Prestige offers easy access to a wide array of beverage options.
From your favorite classics to personalized creations, this machine allows you to create and save user profiles while customizing settings to achieve your preferred coffee indulgence.
With an integrated milk carafe, the Cadorna Prestige effortlessly delivers frothed milk, automating the process of crafting specialty coffee beverages. The milk carafe is easily removable, making storage in the refrigerator a breeze.
The capabilities of the Cadorna Prestige extend to an impressive selection of 14 personalized beverages.
From ristretto and espresso to cappuccino, latte macchiato, and more, this machine ensures a rich variety of options to satisfy any coffee lover’s cravings.
The user interface of the Cadorna Prestige stands out as one of the most impressive among automatic espresso machines and allows you to make your favorite drink at the touch of a button.
Combining plastic housing with stainless steel components and presented in a stylish anthracite color, this machine strikes an appealing balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Equipped with a single boiler and a 15-bar pump pressure system, it delivers consistent performance for exceptional coffee extraction.
The Cadorna Prestige also offers the convenience of four user profiles, enabling you to save your favorite drinks and personalize settings effortlessly.
In summary, the Gaggia Cadorna Prestige is a technologically advanced machine that combines versatility, user-friendly features, and the ability to create a wide range of customizable beverages.
Designed for home baristas who desire coffee shop-quality drinks in the comfort of their own space, this machine elevates the home brewing experience to new heights.
Pros
- Packed with features including a built-in grinder, milk frother, and user-friendly controls
- Delivers excellent results for espresso lovers who want café-quality coffee at home
- Sleek design that adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen
- Offers a wide variety of brewing options, allowing for a diverse range of beverages
- Automatic cleaning cycles simplify and expedite the cleaning process
Cons
- The single boiler may not meet the needs of advanced users requiring simultaneous brewing and steaming
- Durability concerns reported by some users, including unexpected error messages
- A Short 1-year warranty period for a super-automatic espresso machine
Jura ENA 4: Best Budget Option
The Jura ENA 4 is a budget-friendly super-automatic espresso machine and is the smaller brother to the Jura ENA 8.
Despite its affordability, this compact machine delivers an impressive espresso experience. With its fast grinding capabilities and Jura’s Intelligent Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.), it extracts maximum flavor from your espresso for barista-level shots.
The ENA 4 offers four specialty drinks: espresso, coffee, espresso doppio, and café doppio.
In terms of design, the ENA 4 features a sleek black exterior with a mix of matte and glossy textures. The diamond-patterned water tank adds a touch of elegance to its ultra-modern appearance.
Measuring only 10.7 inches wide, 12.7 inches high, and 17.5 inches deep, this compact machine easily fits in any space.
The ENA 4 caters to espresso purists who appreciate straight espresso and desire a visually appealing coffee machine. It is ideal for those who want a quick and effortless way to brew quality black coffee drinks.
The machine’s intuitive design enhances the user experience. However, it’s important to note that the ENA 4 lacks a hot water dispenser and milk frother, which may limit its suitability for milk-based drinks.
Compared to the discontinued Jura A1, the ENA 4 offers more customization options, including three strength settings. It also features intelligent preheating, ensuring the optimal brewing temperature by compensating for heat loss.
The ENA 4 boasts a robust LED display screen on the front, enhancing its user-friendly interface compared to the A1’s top-mounted light-up display.
While the Jura ENA 4 may be slightly pricier than the A1, it provides enhanced functionality and customization options, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet versatile super-automatic espresso machine.
Pros
- Highly responsive touchscreen display
- Three different coffee strength levels
- Programmable recipes, strength, and cup sizes
- Quick brewing time, delivering a cup of coffee within 20 seconds
- Eco-friendly and energy-saving principles
- AromaG3 Grinder and P.E.P. extraction system for flavorful espresso and coffee
- Beautiful and compact design
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Limited drink options
- No milk frother for milk-based beverages
- Lack of a hot water dispenser
- Small water tank and bean hopper capacity
La Pavoni Professional: Best Manual Espresso Machine
The La Pavoni Professional Espresso Machine offers a unique manual-lever design that has stood the test of time.
With its beautiful aesthetics and premium materials, this machine is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.
Using the lever, you have full control over the espresso extraction process. By raising the lever, you raise the piston and manually extract the perfect shot of espresso.
The built-in pressure gauge allows you to monitor the pressure and ensure optimal extraction.
With its generous 38 oz. boiler capacity, the La Pavoni Professional can produce up to 16 2-oz. cups of espresso, making it suitable for larger gatherings or continuous brewing.
Crafted with nickel-plated solid brass boilers and a chrome lever design, this machine exudes elegance and durability.
Its compact size ensures it can easily fit into any kitchen setup without occupying too much space.
While the La Pavoni Professional Espresso Machine boasts impressive craftsmanship, it does require practice to master.
It has a warming-up period, and you need to cool it down before refilling the water. Additionally, prolonged use can lead to overheating, so caution is advised.
The La Pavoni Professional Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for those who appreciate the manual process of creating espresso and admire its timeless design.
It allows you to have complete control over your espresso shots while adding a touch of elegance to your coffee routine.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Built-in pressure gauge for monitoring extraction
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Great workmanship with durable construction
- Appealing and visually attractive design
- Sleek and elegant appearance
- Complete control over pressure through the lever mechanism
Cons
- Prone to overheating after extended use
- Requires some practice and skill to achieve optimal espresso
- Top-heavy design, especially when filled with water
Jura WE6: Best For Offices
The Jura WE6 is a professional-grade automatic coffee machine specifically designed for workplace environments.
With its capacity to produce up to 30 drinks per day, it is an ideal choice for small offices or individuals who frequently entertain guests at home.
One of its standout features is Jura’s pulse extraction process (P.E.P.), which ensures that each cup of espresso is of professional quality by using short bursts of hot water during extraction.
The machine also boasts a six-level AromaG3 grinder, guaranteeing optimal coffee grinding, and a variable brewing unit with a capacity ranging from 5 to 16 grams, ensuring ideal brewing conditions at all times.
Operating the Jura WE6 is a breeze thanks to its intuitive color TFT display and user-friendly operating panels.
The machine also includes integrated rinsing and cleaning programs, along with specially developed cleaning products for JURA coffee machines, allowing for effortless maintenance and perfect hygiene with just the touch of a button.
With certification from TÜV Rheinland, the Jura WE6 is an excellent choice for establishments that follow HACCP principles to ensure food safety.
For added convenience, the Jura WE6 is compatible with Jura’s app, called J.O.E., allowing users to operate the machine using their smartphones, Apple Watches, or even Siri voice commands.
This seamless integration of technology enhances the overall user experience and provides greater control over the coffee-making process.
Whether in a workplace setting or at home, the Jura WE6 offers a combination of versatility, functionality, and ease of use that is sure to satisfy coffee lovers and meet the demands of a busy coffee-drinking environment.
Pros
- Convenient built-in display for easy operation
- Fully automatic functionality makes it accessible for users of all coffee brewing experience levels
- Offers 8 pre-programmed drink options, catering to a wide range of taste preferences
- Delivers exceptional classic coffee flavor with each brew
- Large capacity with a 2.9L water tank and sizeable bean hopper, reducing the need for frequent refills
- Integrated grinder ensures fresh and flavorful coffee grounds
Cons
- Limited control over drink customization due to full automation
- Lack of milk frothing capability necessitates a separate frother for specialty beverages
- Bulky construction may take up significant counter space in smaller kitchens
Rocket Appartamento: Best Compact Option
The Rocket Appartamento is a top-tier espresso machine designed specifically for home use, boasting commercial-grade components and a compact 304 stainless steel construction.
Its stunning appearance features a sleek stainless steel exterior, oversized knobs, and distinctive circular cutouts.
With intelligent design choices like a removable cup rail, smaller feet, and a well-organized interior, the machine maintains a compact footprint. It is available in three captivating colors: white, copper, and black.
Equipped with a powerful 1.8L steam boiler, the Rocket Appartamento excels in producing milk-based coffee drinks. The generous 2.25-liter water reservoir ensures an ample supply of water, allowing you to create multiple drinks before the need for a refill arises.
The Rocket Appartamento also offers the convenience of multiple portafilters, enabling effortless switching between single or double shots of espresso according to your preference.
While this machine is a marvel, it is not recommended for beginners or those seeking a quick and effortless coffee experience. Utilizing the Rocket Appartamento to its fullest potential requires some prior knowledge of espresso brewing techniques.
It’s also important to note that the Rocket Appartamento does not include a grinder, so you will need to lay out some extra cash for a grinder if you don’t already have one.
Overall, the Rocket Appartamento is a high-quality machine that produces café-grade drinks and is ideal for creating a perfect espresso at home. It has a beautiful design, smart features, and is easy to use.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Produces excellent coffee
- Includes top-of-the-line accessories for making great espresso at home
- Powerful steam capability for milk-based drinks
- Features a large water tank and boiler capacity
- Compact size (10.5 inches wide and 14.25 inches tall) fits well in most kitchens
- Spouted portafilters allow easy switching between single and double shots of espresso
Cons
- Requires some experience or willingness to learn for proper manual espresso brewing
- No integrated grinder, necessitating a separate purchase
- The cup rail is flimsy and may not provide sturdy support
- Lacks PID temperature control functionality
Jura E4: Best For Black Coffee
The Jura E4 is a super-automatic coffee machine specifically designed for black coffee enthusiasts.
With its professional aroma grinder, eighth-generation brewing unit, and 3D brewing process, this machine excels in creating a full-bodied aroma and delivering consistent extraction.
The E4 utilizes Jura’s Pulse Extraction Process to ensure even extraction and offers three different strength options for each coffee selection.
The E4 features a minimalist design that emphasizes its premium quality, boasting clean lines, sleek surfaces, and chrome-plated accents on the Piano Black finish. It combines functionality with style, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen.
Designed for coffee purists, the E4 offers impressive brewing capabilities and a sophisticated grinder. It is perfect for those who value a sleek design, excellent grinder performance, and a large water reservoir.
The user interface of the machine is simple and intuitive, aligning with Jura’s minimalist approach. It is easy to operate, clean, and built to withstand the test of time.
In addition to its black coffee specialties, the E4 also features a hot water spout for brewing tea or hot cocoa. The built-in water filter ensures optimal mineral content regardless of the water source.
However, similar to the Jura ENA 4 discussed earlier, the E4 does not have milk frothing capabilities. If you desire lattes or cappuccinos, you will need either a separate machine or a milk frother.
With the Jura E4, you can effortlessly brew delicious espresso and coffee with just the touch of a button. It offers five customizable drink options, allowing you to tailor your coffee experience to your preferences.
Pros
- Whisper quiet and stepless grinder produces high-quality and consistent coffee grounds
- Equipped with the latest brewing gear and technology
- App connectivity sets it apart from competitors like Breville
- Optimizes extraction time with the signature Pulse Extraction Process
- Dedicated hot water spout for convenient brewing of tea or hot cocoa
Cons
- Lack of a built-in milk frother
- Small water tank and bean hopper capacity
Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Buying an Espresso Machine Under $2000
To help you make your decision easier from the list of machines, use this short buying guide to help narrow down your options. Here are some key points to keep in mind during your search:
Machine Type
The type of espresso machine you choose depends on your brewing preferences and level of convenience.
Manual Machines
These require knowledge and skill to operate, but they offer flexibility and control over the brewing process.
They are suitable for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with extraction techniques and are willing to invest time in perfecting their espresso.
Semi-Automatic Machines
Widely used in specialty coffee shops and homes of coffee enthusiasts, semi-automatic machines provide control over brewing variables.
With these machines, you can adjust grind size, brew time, and water temperature to customize your espresso.
They are a popular choice for those looking to refine their brewing skills and enjoy the process of making espresso.
Super-Automatic Machines
Designed for convenience, super-automatic machines automate the brewing process with one-touch operation.
These machines handle everything from grinding the beans to brewing the coffee, making them ideal for busy individuals or those who prefer a hands-off approach.
While they offer less control over the brewing variables, they provide consistent results and convenience.
Single or Double Boiler
Consider whether you prioritize simultaneous brewing and steaming capabilities.
Single Boiler Machines
These machines have a single boiler that performs both brewing and steaming functions.
However, they can only perform one task at a time. When switching between brewing and steaming, you’ll need to wait for the boiler to heat up or cool down.
Single boiler machines are suitable if you don’t require simultaneous brewing and steaming or if you don’t mind occasional wait times.
Double Boiler Machines
With separate boilers for brewing and steaming, double boiler machines allow you to brew and steam simultaneously.
This feature is especially useful if you frequently make milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos. Double boiler machines offer efficient operation and faster turnaround times.
Built-in Grinder
Decide whether you prefer a machine with a built-in grinder or if you would rather invest in a separate high-quality grinder.
Built-in Grinder
Some espresso machines come with integrated grinders, saving you time and counter space. These machines grind the beans just before brewing, ensuring freshness and convenience.
However, the quality of built-in grinders can vary, so it’s essential to assess their performance and consistency.
Separate Grinder
If you value precise control over grind size and extraction, investing in a separate grinder might be a better option.
Standalone grinders offer more flexibility and allow you to fine-tune the grind for different coffee beans and brewing methods.
This choice ensures you have a high-quality grinder tailored to your specific needs.
Ease of Maintenance
Consider the maintenance requirements and features of the espresso machine.
Fully Automatic Machines
These machines often incorporate automated cleaning programs and dishwasher-safe parts, making maintenance a breeze.
They guide you through essential tasks like descaling and offer convenience in keeping your machine in optimal condition.
Mid-Range Machines
Mid-range espresso machines provide guidance for maintenance tasks such as descaling, ensuring you can easily follow the necessary steps.
While they may not have fully automated cleaning programs, they still offer relatively easy maintenance.
Manual Machines
Manual machines require more hands-on maintenance, but they provide complete control over the brewing process.
With regular cleaning and maintenance routines, manual machines can deliver excellent results.
However, they require more effort and time to maintain compared to fully automatic or mid-range machines.
Frothing Capability
If you enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos, consider the frothing capability of the espresso machine.
Steam Wand
Machines equipped with a steam wand allow you to manually froth milk to your preferred consistency.
This gives you control over the frothing process and enables latte art possibilities.
Automatic Frothing System
Some machines feature automatic frothing systems that simplify the milk frothing process.
These systems automatically heat and froth the milk, making it easier for those who prefer a hands-off approach.
Budget
Establishing a budget is crucial when selecting an espresso machine. Determine your price range and consider models within that range.
Remember to account for any additional costs, such as accessories or separate grinder purchases, to ensure you stay within your budget.
The good thing is that all machines on this list are under the $2000 budget making them relatively affordable.
Durability
Assessing the build quality and durability of the espresso machine is vital to ensure long-lasting performance.
Build Quality
Look for machines known for their sturdy construction and durable components. A well-built machine is less likely to encounter issues and will provide reliable performance over time.
Size and Dimensions
Consider the size and dimensions of the espresso machine to ensure it fits well in your kitchen space.
Measure the available counter space and compare it with the machine’s specifications to find a suitable match.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when purchasing an espresso machine under $2000.
Whether you value control and customization, convenience, or a balance of both, there are options available to suit your brewing preferences, maintenance needs, and budget.
The Short Answer?
Consider your priorities when it comes to the quality of coffee you desire. If achieving the absolute best espresso is your priority, opting for a manual machine and having the necessary knowledge and skills to operate it effectively will be necessary.
However, if convenience takes precedence over complete control, a super-automatic machine is the more suitable choice as everything is pretty much automated and done for you.
The Verdict
The Jura ENA 8 stands out as the best overall espresso machine under $2000 due to its exceptional features and performance.
With its compact and sleek design, it fits seamlessly into any kitchen while offering a wide range of specialty coffee drinks at the touch of a button.
The machine’s advanced technologies, such as the Pulse Extraction Process and AromaG3 grinder, ensure the extraction of rich and flavorful espresso every time.
Additionally, its user-friendly interface and easy maintenance make it a convenient choice for coffee enthusiasts of all levels.
Overall, the Jura ENA 8 provides a perfect balance of quality, convenience, and versatility, making it our top pick in this price range.
