Imagine waking up and smelling rich, delicious coffee. You don’t have to go to a fancy cafe to get that! You can make amazing espresso drinks right at home. But when you look for an espresso machine, there are so many choices. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to save money.
Finding a good espresso machine that doesn’t cost a lot of money can be tricky. Some are super cheap but don’t make good coffee. Others are good but cost too much. You might worry about wasting money on something that won’t work well. This is where we come in!
In this blog post, we will help you find the best cheap espresso machines. We will show you what to look for. You will learn which machines give you great taste without breaking the bank. Get ready to discover how to enjoy cafe-quality espresso at home, for less!
Our Top 5 Cheapest Espresso Machine Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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XIXUBX Coffee Machine | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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SOWTECH Coffee Machine | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Imusa 4 Cup Epic Electric Espresso/Cappuccino Maker (Cafe Cubano | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cheapest Espresso Machine Detailed Reviews
1. XIXUBX Coffee Machine
Rating: 9.4/10
The XIXUBX Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Steam Wand, Compact Design Coffee Maker for Latte, Safety Lock & Tritan Cups, 800w, Black is a fantastic addition to any kitchen for coffee lovers. It brews delicious espresso and froths milk for lattes and cappuccinos with ease. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces. This machine is designed for quick and easy coffee making, even for beginners.
What We Like:
- Fast Brewing: Get your coffee quickly with the 800W heating system and 3.5 bar pressure. Espresso is ready in just 2 minutes.
- Space-Saving Design: It’s small and lightweight, so it won’t take up much counter space. Perfect for apartments or offices.
- Easy Frothing: The adjustable steam wand makes it simple to create creamy foam for your favorite coffee drinks. It’s also safe and easy to clean.
- Simple Operation: A single knob controls everything – power, brewing, and frothing. It’s very user-friendly.
- Safe to Use: It comes with durable, BPA-free Tritan cups and a safety lock to ensure the handle is properly secured before brewing.
- Convenient Knock-Off: The handle has a built-in clip to easily remove used coffee grounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- Coffee Grind Recommendation: The instructions suggest specific coffee grind types (dark roast, medium-coarse) and fill levels, which might be limiting for some users.
- Brewing Stop Mark: You need to stop brewing at a specific mark on the carafe to avoid weak coffee, which requires attention.
Overall, the XIXUBX Coffee Machine offers a convenient and enjoyable way to make cafe-style coffee at home. Its user-friendly features and compact design make it a great choice for busy mornings or a relaxing afternoon treat.
2. IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker
Rating: 9.5/10
The IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker in sleek black is designed for home baristas. It whips up delicious espresso and creamy cappuccinos, perfect for your morning boost or an afternoon treat. This machine is compact and easy to operate, bringing coffee shop quality right to your kitchen counter.
What We Like:
- It makes rich, flavorful espresso and frothy cappuccinos.
- The design is compact and fits well on most kitchen counters.
- It’s straightforward to use, even for beginners.
- The black finish looks stylish in any kitchen.
- It’s a budget-friendly option for enjoying specialty coffee drinks at home.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4-cup capacity might be small for households that drink a lot of coffee.
- Some users might find the initial setup and cleaning process a bit tricky without consulting the manual.
- The durability over very long-term use could be a concern for some.
This IMUSA espresso maker offers a convenient way to enjoy your favorite coffee drinks. Remember to read the user guide carefully to get the best results from your new appliance.
3. SOWTECH Coffee Machine
Rating: 8.9/10
Dreaming of delicious lattes and frothy cappuccinos at home? The SOWTECH 3.5 Bar Espresso Cappuccino Machine makes it easy to become your own barista. This compact and powerful coffee maker whips up rich espresso and creamy milk foam in minutes, perfect for your morning boost or an afternoon treat. Its user-friendly design is ideal for anyone, from coffee novices to seasoned enthusiasts.
What We Like:
- Fast Brewing: The 800W heating system brews 1-4 cups of coffee in just 2-3 minutes.
- Easy Frothing: A powerful steam wand creates silky milk foam for perfect cappuccinos and lattes. It even has a safety anti-burn tube.
- Durable Cups: Comes with shatterproof, BPA-free Tritan cups that are safe and easy to pour from, with clear measurement lines.
- Compact Design: Its small size (8.3″D x 6″W x 11.8″H) saves valuable counter space.
- Simple Operation: A one-button control makes it super easy to use for all ages, perfect for beginners.
- Easy Cleaning: The portafilter is simple to remove for quick cleanup after you’re done.
What Could Be Improved:
- Milk Type: It works best with whole milk for frothing.
- Steam Wand Maintenance: You need to clean the steam rod right after use to prevent blockages and use the included pin if it gets clogged.
The SOWTECH coffee machine offers a convenient and affordable way to enjoy coffee shop favorites right in your kitchen. Its thoughtful design and simple operation make it a fantastic addition for any coffee lover.
4. KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother
Rating: 9.4/10
Wake up to delicious coffee every morning with the KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine. This compact machine makes it easy to brew your favorite espresso, cappuccino, or latte right at home. It’s perfect for beginners and coffee lovers alike, offering a simple way to enjoy café-quality drinks.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to make hot and iced coffee with just a single switch knob.
- The machine brews your coffee fast, making 1-4 cups in about 2 minutes thanks to its advanced heating technology.
- You can create creamy micro-foam for cappuccinos and lattes in just 40 seconds with the powerful steam wand.
- It’s small and lightweight, so it won’t take up much space on your counter.
- The machine is BPA free and runs quietly, making it a good fit for any home.
- It has a handy pause function for unexpected interruptions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to turn the control knob to “OFF” to relieve pressure before opening the water tank or removing the portafilter.
- Make sure not to add more than 240ml of water to avoid leaks.
- Clean the steam wand after each use to prevent it from getting clogged.
- The filter must be fully locked in place; always turn the handle to the lock symbol.
- Use medium-ground coffee; very fine grounds are not recommended.
- Wipe off any coffee grounds from the edge of the filter before use.
- Avoid adding water immediately after making coffee to prevent burns.
- Accessories should not be put in the dishwasher.
This KEENSTAR espresso machine offers a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite coffee drinks with ease. It’s a great addition to any kitchen for quick and delicious homemade coffee.
5. Imusa 4 Cup Epic Electric Espresso/Cappuccino Maker (Cafe Cubano
Rating: 8.8/10
The Imusa 4 Cup Epic Electric Espresso/Cappuccino Maker in vibrant red is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, ready to brew your favorite coffee drinks with ease. It’s designed for daily use, whether you’re making a quick morning espresso or a fancy cappuccino for guests.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong plastic and has a clear glass pot, so it will last a long time.
- The bright red color makes it look great on your counter.
- You can make many kinds of coffee drinks, like espresso, lattes, and even Italian Moka.
- It has a special wand to make frothy milk for cappuccinos.
- The drip tray comes out, which makes cleaning super easy.
- The handle stays cool, so you won’t burn your hand when pouring.
- It comes in a nice box, making it a perfect gift for coffee lovers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The carafe, while clear, is made of glass and could break if dropped.
- While versatile, it’s a 4-cup maker, so it might not be ideal for very large gatherings.
This Imusa espresso maker offers a premium coffee experience at home. It’s a practical and stylish appliance that brings the coffee shop to you.
Your Guide to the Cheapest Espresso Machine
So, you want to make delicious espresso at home without breaking the bank? Great! Finding the cheapest espresso machine doesn’t mean you have to settle for bad coffee. You just need to know what to look for. This guide will help you find a machine that fits your budget and your taste.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an affordable espresso machine, a few key features make a big difference.
Pump Pressure
Espresso needs good pressure to extract the flavor from the coffee grounds. Look for machines that advertise at least 15 bars of pressure. This is the standard for good espresso.
Water Tank Capacity
A bigger water tank means you can make more drinks before refilling. This is convenient, especially if you’re making coffee for yourself and others.
Portafilter Size
The portafilter holds the coffee grounds. Most home machines use 54mm or 58mm portafilters. A larger portafilter usually means you can make a stronger, more flavorful shot.
Steam Wand
If you like lattes or cappuccinos, a steam wand is a must. It froths milk to create that creamy texture. Some machines have a simple wand, while others have more advanced ones that are easier to use.
Ease of Cleaning
No one wants to spend hours cleaning their coffee maker. Look for machines with removable parts that are easy to wash. Some machines even have descaling programs to help with maintenance.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in an espresso machine affect its durability and how well it heats up.
Stainless Steel vs. Plastic
Machines with stainless steel parts, like the boiler or portafilter, tend to last longer and heat up more evenly than those made mostly of plastic. However, plastic parts can keep the cost down.
Boiler Type
Some machines use a single boiler, which heats up quickly but means you can only brew coffee or steam milk at one time. Others have a dual boiler, which is more expensive but lets you do both at once.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your espresso taste better or worse.
Temperature Control
Consistent water temperature is crucial for good espresso. Machines with better temperature control will give you more reliable results. Cheaper machines might have less precise heating.
Grind Quality
Even the best machine can’t make good espresso with bad grounds. You’ll need a good grinder. If your budget is tight, consider buying pre-ground espresso coffee. But for the best taste, a grinder is worth it.
Tamping Pressure
Tamping is pressing the coffee grounds into the portafilter. Consistent and firm tamping helps water flow through the grounds evenly. You might need to practice this technique.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your espresso machine.
Beginner-Friendly
If you’re new to making espresso, look for machines that are simple to operate. These often have fewer buttons and clear instructions. They are great for quickly making a morning coffee.
Home Barista Aspirations
If you dream of making fancy coffee drinks like a barista, you might want a machine with more control. These machines let you adjust things like temperature and shot volume. They are good for experimenting with different coffee beans and recipes.
Space Savers
Some espresso machines are very compact. These are perfect for small kitchens or if you don’t want a big appliance taking up counter space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the absolute cheapest way to make espresso at home?
A: The absolute cheapest way is often a manual Moka pot or a simple stovetop espresso maker. These don’t use electricity and are very affordable.
Q: Do I need a special grinder for espresso?
A: Yes, for the best espresso, you need a grinder that can produce a very fine, consistent grind. Blade grinders are not ideal for espresso.
Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee in a cheap espresso machine?
A: You can, but the espresso might not taste as good. Espresso requires a specific grind size, and pre-ground coffee can go stale quickly.
Q: How important is pump pressure (bars) for a cheap machine?
A: It’s quite important. Aim for at least 9-15 bars of pressure. This helps extract the rich flavor from the coffee grounds.
Q: What if the cheap machine doesn’t have a steam wand?
A: You can still make espresso! You just won’t be able to make milk-based drinks like lattes. You can also buy a separate milk frother.
Q: How long do cheap espresso machines usually last?
A: The lifespan varies a lot. Machines with more metal parts and good care can last for years. Plastic-heavy machines might not be as durable.
Q: What’s the difference between an espresso machine and a coffee maker?
A: Espresso machines force hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure to make a concentrated shot of espresso. Regular coffee makers use gravity and less pressure.
Q: Are there any brands known for good budget espresso machines?
A: Brands like De’Longhi, Mr. Coffee, and occasionally Gaggia or Breville have models that offer good value in the budget category. Look for their entry-level options.
Q: What maintenance is needed for a cheap espresso machine?
A: You should clean the portafilter and brew head after each use. Regular descaling (removing mineral buildup) is also important for performance and longevity.
Q: Can I make good espresso with a machine under $100?
A: Yes, it’s possible to make decent espresso with machines under $100, especially if you focus on the key features mentioned and use good quality coffee. Don’t expect barista-level perfection, but you can definitely enjoy a homemade espresso.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!