The 8 Best Espresso Machines Under $200 – Our Top Picks

It’s really no secret that enjoying good coffee can be an expensive pastime. However, if you’re just dipping your toe into the world of home espresso brewing, you may not want to invest too much. At least, until you know more about it.

We’ve done our research and found the best espresso machines under $200 for you all. And it’s ideal for those mornings when you need a boost of energy to start your day. And you can learn the ins and outs of extrusion without breaking the bank, starting with an inexpensive machine.

What do we understand by espresso?

We all recognize an espresso when we drink it, but what exactly is it? The exact definition can be hard to pin down, but the key features are that it is a small, concentrated 25-35ml coffee made from 7g of ground coffee. It must be extracted for 25 to 30 seconds at 190 F and 9 bar of pressure (1).

In light of these prerequisites, an espresso can only be really made with an espresso machine. While capsule machines claim a pressure of 15 bars (or more), they can vary in extraction time or the amount of coffee used. However, we have included some of these machines that make espresso-style drinks, as they can be a convenient and tasty option for home use.

How to pick the best budget espresso machine

Even if you’re not spending any money on an espresso machine, it’s crucial to do your research. If you make the wrong decision, your product can be a total disaster that breaks down after a few uses. Here are some things to consider when shopping for the best espresso machine under $200.

Types of espresso machines

Your choice of machine will have a massive effect on its own cost, features, and coffee quality. The best espresso machine for you may also depend on the skill level required.

Automatic: The automatic doesn’t need you to manually time the draw, which is the sole distinction between it and a semi-automatic.

You press a button and the machine will stop brewing by itself after the drink is finished.

Semi-automatic: The automatic aspect of these machines refers to the fact that you are not creating pressure by hand. You’ll still need to manually froth the milk, start and stop the extraction process, and crush and tamp the beans.

Super Automatic: The entire brewing process is handled for you by super-automatic machines, also referred to as bean-to-cup machines. They tamp and extract the beans, grind using built-in mills, and then froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. You won’t find a super-automatic espresso machine for less than $200 because all this technology makes them expensive.

Manual: When using a manual machine, a lever creates the force needed to pump water through coffee grinds.

Pod: A capsule or pod machine is made for your comfort. There is no need to measure, grind, or tamp if using pre-ground coffee espresso pods. Just press the button to start no user intervention is required.

Do you drink milk?

You’ll need a technique for foaming milk if you want to create your favorite cafe beverage at home. You’ll find that traditional-style home espresso machines always include a steam wand, but this will take some practice to use. The automated milk frother that produces milk foam at the press of a button is frequently seen in coffee makers branded as latte and cappuccino machines. A pod machine or travel coffee maker won’t always have a way to froth milk, but you can pair it with a separate frother if you want espresso and cappuccino options.

Size Matters

One approach to save costs is to get a smaller coffee maker, but you must be honest with yourself about your usage patterns. Find a machine with a bigger water tank if you’re the type to drink many cups of coffee each day or if you have plenty of coffee drinkers in your home.

The size of the reservoir will determine how many coffees you can make before you need to refill it. But keep in mind that creating steam to froth milk also uses water, so if you’re always making cappuccinos, you’ll be refilling them more often. For capsule machines, you need also to take the size of the used capsule container into account.

What you won’t get from the best budget espresso machine:

When it comes to purchasing a cheap coffee maker, as with many other things in life, you get what you pay for.

Each of these espresso machines has its pros and cons, but you can’t expect to get good espresso extraction, convenience, and easy-to-use technology all in one machine.

8 Best Espresso Machines Under $200 In 2023

1. mr. coffee cafe barista espresso and cappuccino maker, silver

It ranks number one on our list of the Best Espresso Machines Under $200 For. We may have said that you can’t expect anything when buying an espresso machine under $200, but Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista has tried to deliver.

The Mr. coffee cafe barista espresso and cappuccino maker was our espresso maker of choice. It actually does everything for you except grind the beans. This semi-automatic model can make espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos with its 15-bar pressure pump and automatic milk frother. Each drink has a single or double drink option that adds more water. All you need to do is make sure you’re using the right portafilter, which should come in pressurized one- or two-shot variants.

At this price, a fully automatic milker is rare; Even some high-end semi-automatics require you to transfer the cup between the portafilter and the milk tank. You can use a knob to change the texture of the milk from deep foam for lattes to light foam for cappuccino.

The machine includes a removable drip tray for cleaning and a removable water tank, milk reservoir, and drip tray for ease of use.

All of these conveniences can make the quality of a Mr. coffee café barista espresso extraction hit or miss. There is no option for hot water so it won’t work for Americans or for making tea. However, this is one

Good cappuccino makers, as opposed to the more expensive, bells-and-whistles espresso machines that are more common.

Read More: Mr. coffee cafe barista Machine Review

2. De’longhi ecp3420 15″ bar pump espresso and cappuccino machine, black

The DeLonghi ECP3420 is the next best espresso maker for under $200. This espresso maker has stainless steel accents and is composed of sturdy ABS plastic.

The machine has a sturdy construction, despite the fact that the material is more plastic than stainless steel. There is also storage under the water tank lid for additional filter baskets.

But they also come with plastic accessories like the tamper and portafilter. I had trouble getting compressed grounds into the portafilter because of the plastic tamper. This is true of many of the machines on this list, so I quickly changed to one made from stainless steel.

DeLonghi ECP3420 comes with a 15-bar pressure pump and a pressurized portafilter. To give my espresso more or less body pressure, I liked that I could change the pressure and extract level. Because the portafilter is a 3-in-1, you may use ESE pods and draw single or double shots of espresso with it.

Since this espresso maker is manual, it won’t stop pouring on its own. Of course, you have to stop the brewing process in time. The DeLonghi ECP3420’s quick heating time is another feature I loved. With the self-priming feature, it heats up in less than one minute and begins brewing right away.

You can draw many espresso shots quickly thanks to the quick warming technology. The machine will be ready for your milk within 30 seconds if you want to switch to steaming. But the steam wand frequently failed to foam. It can heat the milk, but it can’t produce the microfoam required for lattes and latte art.

Read More: DeLonghi ECP3420 Coffee Maker Review

3. Instant Pod, 3-in-1 Espresso Machine

The Instant Pod is a 3-in-1 espresso machine that allows you to make coffee, tea, and hot cocoa with the touch of a button. It uses both K-Cup pods and ground coffee, giving you the flexibility to use your favorite brand of coffee. It also features a built-in milk frother for making lattes and cappuccinos. The machine is compact and easy to use, making it a great option for both home and office use. Additionally, it has a fast brewing time and is easy to clean up.

The Instant Pod is a versatile and convenient coffee maker that can brew a variety of hot beverages with the touch of a button. It can make espresso, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa using either K-Cup pods or ground coffee. This means you can use your favorite brand of coffee or tea, giving you more control over the flavor and strength of your beverages.

The built-in milk frother allows you to make lattes, cappuccinos, and other frothy drinks with ease. The frother is simple to use and can be adjusted to your desired level of frothiness.

The machine is compact and easy to use, making it a great option for both home and office use. It has a fast brewing time, so you can enjoy your beverage quickly. Additionally, the machine is easy to clean, with removable parts that can be washed in the dishwasher.

The Instant Pod also features a large water reservoir, so you don’t have to constantly refill it, and it also has programmable settings, so you can customize your brews to your liking.

Overall, the Instant Pod 3-in-1 Espresso Machine is a great option for anyone looking for a versatile, convenient, and easy-to-use coffee maker that can brew a variety of hot beverages.

4. Gevi 2-in-1 Espresso 20 Bar Machine

The Gevi 2-in-1 Espresso Machine is a high-performance coffee maker that can brew both espresso and coffee. It has a powerful 20-bar pump that can fully extract the flavor and aroma from your coffee beans, guaranteeing a rich and pleasant cup of coffee every time.

The Gevi 2-in-1 Espresso 20 Bar machine has an advanced Thermoblock fast heating system. Since the machine can heat up rapidly thanks to this mechanism, your espresso will be ready in a short while. Thermoblock technology also allows for precise temperature control, ensuring your espresso is always at the perfect temperature. In addition to its fast heating system, the Gevi 2-in-1 Espresso machine has a 20 bar pressure pump, which allows for a perfect espresso extraction every time. This machine also has a 2-in-1 function, with the ability to make both espresso and coffee, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

The LED display is another point worth mentioning. This feature is uncommon on espresso machines in this price range and takes some of the guessing out of using the device. It’s definitely a step up from the basic knobs you’ll find on most manual espresso machines in this budget.

For making microfoam for your espresso macchiato or cortado coffee, this Gevi has a manual steam wand. Get a two-in-one portafilter with filter baskets for single and double shots.

I won’t be skimming over the overheating prevention or the dual temperature control. Maintaining a stable temperature is important to ensure quality espresso production and the longevity of your machine. Thankfully, the overheating protection makes sure it won’t become too hot.

Leaving aside the best coffee extraction and temp control, notice how small this machine is. Some Gevi devices have the impression of filling your entire counter. This 2-in-1 remains lightweight and portable due to its slim, compact design. There is no greater traveling partner if you have an RV.

5. Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine

Coming in at number five on our list, the Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine is a budget-friendly option for the best espresso machines under $200. This black and stainless steel finished device is an excellent choice if you need a small budget due to its small, compact frame.

Hamilton Beach also has a 15-bar pressure pump, that allows it to steam milk and produce high espresso shots.

It has a removable drip tray and a transparent water tank, making it easy to operate and maintain. Also, there is a little cup warmer and a swivel wand. In short, you have all you need to do the job.

You may brew several-sized cups with this espresso machine, and it can produce one or two shots. It is possible to use ESE pods or ground coffee. We got really nice bodies and thick crema on every shot I took.

The slide-in portafilter is one aspect of the Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine that sets it apart. Especially those with hand arthritis will appreciate this function.

The Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine makes brewing coffee easy, as you simply slide the portafilter into place instead of twisting and beating and you’re done.

6. Chefman 6-in-1 Espresso Machine

The Schiffman 6-in-1 is number six on our list of the best espresso machines under $200, though it’s not low. Espresso, cappuccino, and latte may all be made with this 6-in-1 machine in single or double shots. The Chefman 6-in-1 espresso machine produces rich espresso thanks to its strong 15-bar pressure pump.

The built-in milk frothing function is what separates this espresso machine from others. The milk reservoir should be filled with milk before setting the silver froth pouring tube above the cup. Then press the button for a single or double shot.

You can brew like a barista thanks to the device’s built-in milk-frothing function. The Chefman also has a sizable 1.8L water tank that can make seven and a half cups of coffee. You don’t need to bother about daily refills with that capacity.

The espresso maker is also among the simplest to use. It operates with a single touch, and the control panel has eight neatly labeled buttons (the six different brews, froth, and clean). When you are done drinking, press the clean button on the control panel and the machine will clean itself.

The usage is made even simpler by the dishwasher-safe removable components, such as the drip tray and water tank, though you should still clean them by hand. The stainless-steel finish is easy to clean with a cloth and doesn’t leave fingerprints.

There are 8 buttons on the control panel. They make the espresso maker easier to use and give it a modern look. But, I didn’t like where the buttons were placed or how delicate they were.

It was common for me to accidentally bump one of them, which required me to swiftly turn off the machine before coffee, water, or steam began gushing out in all directions. Even though it wasn’t a deal-breaker, this required careful machine handling.

7. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

Ranked number seven under $200 is the Stilosa espresso machine. The Stilosa espresso machine from DeLonghi offers 15 bars of pressure, just as the other models do, so it can produce a satisfying espresso shot.

The Stilosa has the best boiler of any machine on this list and produces the best espresso shots. As a result of the milk steamer it has, it can also produce a variety of specialty beverages.

A special mention should be made of the Stilosa design, which has a matte black finish and combines stainless steel and plastic. It will suit any kitchen.

This espresso machine can create single or double shots, and when you want a rapid brew, you can use pods with it. There is a manual steam wand included in the espresso maker. The range of motion isn’t the best at first because the wand needs some time to loosen up. It cannot produce the tight microfoam required for lattes. Also, it emits cool or warm air.

As you clean the rubber part within, you may remove the metal steam wand cover. Moreover, it is very easy to clean.

Since the inside of the machine is made up of soft plastic and rubber roughly 90%, several customers have complained about a strong plastic smell that lasts for days. The boiler will live for a long time because it is made of stainless steel.

There are 2-cup holders included in the Stilosa so you can use different-sized cups. It has a large drip tray that catches any spills. It has a water indicator, and the removable water tank is 34 oz, so you don’t have to constantly check the water level.

8. Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Machine

It ranks number eight and final on our list of the Best Espresso Machines Under $200 For. Lavazza Blue Classy Mini is in our last position. It is a single-serve coffee machine that allows you to enjoy a wide range of coffee drinks in the comfort of your own home or office.

It uses Lavazza Blue capsules to make espresso, lungo, and other coffee drinks with the push of two buttons. The machine has a compact size and sleek design and features a removable water tank and capsule container for easy cleaning. It has an automatic shut-off function and a built-in cup warmer. The machine is only compatible with Lavazza Blue Capsules.

The Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Machine is a user-friendly and versatile coffee machine that offers a range of features to make your coffee experience as convenient as possible.

As a result of its tiny size, the device is ideal for use in kitchens or small offices. It Classy Mini uses Lavazza BLUE capsules, which are specially designed for the device, to ensure that you always receive the perfect cup of coffee.

The machine has a removable water tank that can hold up to 23 fl oz of water, which is enough for several cups of coffee before needing to be refilled.

You will not be concerned about having to empty the Classy Mini’s removable used capsules container all the time because it can keep up to 5 used capsules.

Overall, the Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Machine is a great option for anyone looking for a convenient and high-quality coffee experience. It offers a wide range of features that make it easy to use and maintain, and the use of Lavazza BLUE capsules ensures that you get a delicious cup of coffee every time.

Read More: Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Machine

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the Best Espresso Machines Under $200 can be challenging, but it is possible. From semi-automatic machines to manual models, there are several options that deliver delicious and consistent espresso shots. Some of the most popular brands in this price range include DeLonghi, Mr. Coffee, and Hamilton Beach. Before making a purchase, consider your brewing preferences and research each machine’s features and customer reviews to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions