Do you dream of café-quality espresso in your own kitchen, but feel overwhelmed by the choices? Imagine pulling the perfect shot, rich and aromatic, before your day even begins. That dream is closer than you think, but finding the right machine can feel like a maze.
So many single espresso machines promise the world. They boast fancy features and look great on the counter, but how do you know which one actually delivers that perfect cup every time? It’s easy to get lost in confusing jargon and spend too much money on something that doesn’t fit your needs. You want great coffee without the headache of research.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down what really matters in a single espresso machine. You’ll learn how to spot the best features for your budget and lifestyle. By the end, you will feel confident picking the machine that will make your morning coffee ritual something special.
Top Single Espresso Machine Recommendations
- Make Your Favorite Espresso Coffee At Home: The CASABREWS coffee machine with milk frother allows you to prepare all your favorite espresso-based coffees. You can enjoy a barista-brewed latte, cappuccino or macchiato at home. Stainless steel appearance, stylish and durable, ideal for any size kitchen. This compact espresso coffee maker is perfect for home or office use
- Professional 20 Bar Pressure System: Semi-Automatic 2-in-1 Espresso Maker, with 20 bar professional Italian pump and 1350 W powerful boiler. This latte machine gives you top quality extraction, resulting in a more fragrant and rich aroma. The built-in pressure gauge on this cappuccino machine shows the exact pressure helping you make adjustments according to your personal taste preferences. You can create a cappuccino, latte or flat white at your home or office with our cappuccino maker
- Milk Frothing System: Our espresso machine with milk frother has a powerful steam wand, so you can texture creamy, rich microfoam milk to create amazing milk foam art and enhance the flavor of your brews. Awaken your inner barista and create your own unique milk foam art. Don't pass us by if you are looking for an excellent espresso coffee maker
- Compact, Stylish & Practical: The beautiful and compact design makes this small espresso machine suitable for any size kitchen. Make single or double espresso shots with a beautiful layer of crema in minutes! The 34 oz water tank allows you to brew multiple cups, and it is detachable for easy refilling. Included components: Espresso Machine, 34 oz Removable Water Tank, One Cup Brewing Filter, Two Cup Brewing Filter, Portafilter, Tamper With Spoon, Instruction Manual
- Useful Tips: Please kindly note that do not brew coffee immediately after frothing milk. The machine must cool down first otherwise the temperature and the pressure inside the machine will be too high, and the machine will go into over-heating protection mode. The lights for 1 cup or 2 cup will flash repeatedly and please follow the steps of included guide to cool down the machine. You can watch more INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO by clicking Visit the CASABREWS Store
- Make Your Favorite Espresso Coffee At Home: The CASABREWS coffee machine with milk frother allows you to prepare all your favorite espresso-based coffees. You can enjoy a barista-brewed latte, cappuccino or macchiato at home. Stainless steel appearance, stylish and durable, ideal for any size kitchen. This compact espresso machine is perfect for home or office use
- Professional 20-Bar Pressure System: A semi-Automatic 2-in-1 Espresso Maker with a 20 bar professional pump and a 1350 W powerful heating system. This 20 bar pressure espresso maker gives you a top quality extraction, resulting in a more fragrant and richer aroma in your coffee. You can create a cappuccino, latte or flat white at home or in the office with our stainless steel espresso maker
- Milk Frothing System: Our espresso machine with milk frother has a powerful steam wand that creates a creamy and rich micro-foam milk texture to enhance the flavor of the coffee and enable the creation of latte art. Awaken your inner barista and create your own unique milk foam art with our espresso machine. This compact espresso machine is perfect for latte, cappuccino or macchiato. If you are trying to find an excellent espresso coffee maker, look no further
- Compact, Stylish & Practical: The compact design makes this espresso coffee machine suitable for a kitchen of any sizes. The 43.9 oz water tank allows you to brew multiple cups of coffee without a refill, and it is detachable for easy refilling. The drip tray can be easily removed to clean. This home espresso machine comes with everything a coffee lover needs to get started. What’s included: Espresso Machine, 43.9 oz Removable Water Tank, One Cup Brewing Filter, Two Cup Brewing Filter, Portafilter, Tamper With Spoon, Instruction Manual
- Using Tips: Please remove the rubber plug at the bottom of the water tank and make “First use cycle” for this espresso machine when you use it for the first time. Please follow the steps in the user guide. Please note that there are many instructional videos on the USER GUIDE of CASABREWS store
- Professional 20BAR Pressure for Rich Espresso with Lasting Crema Utilizes a reliable 20-bar pump system designed for consistent pressure and full extraction, ensuring a rich, aromatic espresso with a beautiful crema layer every time. To ensure optimal performance, please ensure the machine is properly primed and use the correct grind size and tamping pressure
- Fast, Stable Heating System for Optimal Brew & Steam Temperature Features an instant heating system engineered to quickly reach and maintain the ideal temperature for both brewing and steaming. This design addresses temperature consistency concerns. For the hottest coffee, we recommend preheating your cups and allowing the machine to fully heat up for 60 seconds before the first brew
- Enhanced Steam Wand with Reliable Performance & Easy Maintenance Equipped with an upgraded steam wand designed for denser microfoam and consistent steam output. The 360° adjustable, detachable nozzle allows for precise control and easy cleaning. Critical Reminder: To prevent clogging and ensure performance, always purge the wand before use and clean it immediately after each steaming session
- Sturdy, Compact Design with Secure, User-Friendly Components Built with a stable, non-slip base to prevent movement during operation. Features a securely locking portafilter and filter basket to prevent accidental dislodging. The 42oz removable water tank and clear water level indicator simplify refilling and maintenance
- Quiet Operation & Customizable Settings for a Refined Experience Operates with a low-noise brewing system for a peaceful kitchen environment. Enjoy personalized coffee with customizable single or double shot volumes. Please follow the included manual's setup steps carefully to ensure all components are correctly assembled for proper function
- 【Make Favorite Espresso Coffee by Yourself】The espresso machine with milk frother allows you to prepare all your favorite espresso-based coffees. You can enjoy a barista-brewed latte, cappuccino or macchiato at home. This compact espresso coffee maker is perfect for home or office use
- 【Professional 20 Bar Pressure System】The 20-bar system ensures optimal 9-10 bar pressure is maintained throughout the shot, fully saturating the coffee powder to extract deeper, more complex flavors and that coveted golden crema—turning your kitchen into a specialty coffee shop.
- 【NTC Precision Temp Control Extract】 Solve inconsistent flavor for good. This espresso machine temperature control system locks onto the 90-96°C sweet spot and preheats in just 30 seconds. Whether you're extracting fruity light roasts or rich dark roasts, every shot accurately reveals the beans’ true profile.
- 【Making Dense Milk Foam】From Flat Milk to Velvety Microfoam in Seconds. Our powerful steam wand delivers dry, focused steam—not weak bubbles. This gives you dense, glossy microfoam with the perfect texture for latte art and a naturally sweet flavor that melds seamlessly with your espresso.
- 【Auto Espresso & Manual Extraction】This espresso machine has added a function of manual extraction. You can customize the extraction time to get coffee of different concentrations. Manual function max takes 102 seconds and will get 180-350 grams of coffee. Espresso Mode will auto extraction 28 seconds to get a single shot espresso(25-40 grams), or 42 seconds to get a double shot espresso(55-85 grams)
- 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Equipped with a 20-bar pump, NTC temperature control, pre-infusion feature, and a pressure gauge, the Gevi stainless steel espresso coffee machines with a milk frother allows you to craft a range of café-quality beverages. From Mocha to Macchiato, Espresso to Americano, this expresso machine is not only ideal for home or office use but also makes a perfect gift for father, friends, and loved ones.
- 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 - The espresso coffee maker with frother features a powerful steam wand that quickly turns milk into silky smooth microfoam. The removable froth nozzle makes the cleaning easily.
- 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 & 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 - This cappuccino machine features a full stainless steel housing that is both stylish and durable, with a modern aesthetic that complements a variety of kitchen decors. Furthermore, its compact design makes it perfectly suited for countertops and kitchens of any size.
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐔𝐬𝐞 - The intuitive controls and semi-automatic brewing process of expressions machine make it simple for anyone to create barista-quality coffee with minimal effort.
- 𝐇𝐨𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Use for Americano, hot drinks such as tea, instant soups and to warm cups prior to making espresso.
- Easy to Make Hot and Iced Coffee: Single switch knob with indicator light for simple operation.Turn the control knob to the "OFF" position to relieve pressure before opening the water tank cap or removing the portafilter. Innovative pause function allows you to deal with unexpected event. More suitable for beginners.
- Fast Brewing Technology: Advanced heating technology makes water quickly heat to the right temperature. Keenstar 3.5 bar pressure coffee maker can make 1-4 cups (240ml) of coffee within 2 minutes. Easy-pour glass cup is clearly marked to serve the perfect amount every time and delivers a truly rich espresso in seconds. Warm Tips:Add Max 240ml water, otherwise the nozzle will leak.
- Powerful Steam Wand: High power 800W element for high pressure steam and faster heat up to create the micro-foam in 40 seconds, ready to make creamy cappuccino and latte art without wait. Accurate temperature control can ensure the best taste. Velvety smooth espresso will make mornings so much better. The silicon pad could prevent burns by nozzle. We advise you clean the steam wand after every use, otherwise the steam wand may be blocked by milk scale and water scale. Warm Tips: Don't add water asap after making coffee to prevent burns.
- Space Saving and User Friendly: This compact coffee maker is smaller than most. Dimensions are 13.1" high x 7.7" wide x 10" deep, weight only 4.7 pounds. Fits in any kitchen while maintaining key features like heat control, bar pressure, and milk frothing. BPA Free. Robust and low noise, suitable for all families. (Don't put accessories in dishwasher)
- NOTICE: 1. FILTER MUST BE FULLY LOCKED! Pls always turn the handle to the lock symbol on the head of machine. 2. Don’t use too fine coffee ground, only medium ground is suggested.(>0.5mm) 3. Please clean the coffee ground on the edge of the filter.
- Steam Brewing: Powerful steam-brewing process brews dark, rich espresso, great for making Cuban coffee
- Extra-Large Portafilter: Brew up to 4 shots of rich espresso with the extra-large portafilter
- Frothing Wand: Integrated frothing wand easily froths milk for delicious cappuccinos and lattes
- Water Pitcher: Water pitcher features measurement markings for consistent brewing and steaming
- Measuring Scoop: Measuring scoop for easy coffee scooping and leveling
- Don't compromise on third wave specialty coffee. Achieve barista quality performance using a 54mm portafilter with 19 grams for full flavor and an automatic steam wand for milk texturing, delivering handsfree microfoam at the right temperature
- Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing: The automatic steam wand allows you to adjust the milk temperature and texture to suit your taste. Delivering Barista quality microfoam that enhances flavor and enables creation of latte art.
- Faster Heat Up Time: Innovative thermojet heating system achieves the optimum extraction temperature in 3 seconds; Ready to make your best coffee without the wait.
- Receive 2 free bags of specialty coffee when you purchase and register any Breville coffee machine; T and Cs apply
- Low pressure pre infusion: Low pressure pre infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
The Essential Guide to Buying Your First Single Espresso Machine
Choosing the right single espresso machine can feel overwhelming. You want that rich, perfect shot every morning without the giant price tag. This guide breaks down what matters so you can brew like a pro.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these core functions in mind. They determine how easy and good your coffee will taste.
Heating System: Thermoblock vs. Boiler
- Thermoblock: These heat water quickly as it flows through. They are great for fast startup times. They are usually found in smaller, budget-friendly machines.
- Boiler (Single or Dual): Boilers heat a reservoir of water. Single boilers heat water for brewing and steaming sequentially. Dual boilers heat both at the same time. Dual boilers offer better temperature stability, which improves shot quality, but they cost more.
Pump Pressure
Look for machines that offer 15 bars of pressure. While 9 bars is the ideal pressure at the coffee grounds, a pump rated at 15 bars gives you enough power to achieve that perfect extraction.
Portafilter Size
Most home machines use a 51mm or 58mm portafilter. Larger portafilters (58mm) handle more coffee grounds and often lead to more consistent results, similar to what cafes use. Smaller ones work fine for single shots.
2. Important Materials Matter
The machine’s construction affects its lifespan and how well it keeps heat.
Body Construction
- Plastic: Found on entry-level models. They save money but do not retain heat as well.
- Stainless Steel: This is the gold standard. Stainless steel bodies look professional and hold heat much better, leading to more stable brewing temperatures.
Portafilter and Steam Wand
Always prefer a metal (usually aluminum or stainless steel) portafilter over plastic ones. For steaming milk, a stainless steel steam wand heats milk faster and is easier to clean than plastic alternatives.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Small details make a big difference in your final cup.
Temperature Stability (PID)
A PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller is a fancy term for smart temperature control. Machines with PID maintain the exact brewing temperature needed, which drastically improves flavor consistency. This feature usually shows up on mid-range machines.
Grinder Inclusion
Many single machines do not include a grinder. Remember: a quality burr grinder is more important than the machine itself. If you buy a machine without a grinder, budget separately for a good one.
Ease of Cleaning
Consider how easy it is to descale the machine and clean the group head. Easy access to water tanks and drip trays reduces daily frustration. Some internal parts might require professional servicing, so check reviews on long-term maintenance.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the machine every day.
Speed vs. Quality
If you need a quick shot before rushing out the door, a fast heat-up time (like a thermoblock) is crucial. If you enjoy the ritual and want café-quality taste, you will need a machine that takes longer to warm up (like a boiler system).
Milk Frothing Needs
Do you drink only black espresso, or do you make lattes and cappuccinos? If you need great milk foam, look for a machine with a powerful steam wand (often called a Panarello or a powerful articulating wand). Entry-level machines often have weaker wands that produce bubbly, not silky, milk.
Footprint
Single espresso machines are generally compact, but always measure your counter space. If you live in a small apartment, a narrow machine saves valuable real estate.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Single Espresso Machines
Q: What is the ideal pressure for making espresso?
A: Most experts agree that the ideal pressure applied to the coffee grounds during extraction is 9 bars of pressure.
Q: Do I need a machine with a built-in grinder?
A: No. A separate, quality burr grinder usually performs better than the small blade grinders sometimes built into cheaper machines. Separate is often better for quality.
Q: What does “pre-infusion” mean?
A: Pre-infusion is when the machine gently wets the coffee grounds with low-pressure water before applying full pressure. This helps the coffee expand evenly, reducing channeling and improving the shot.
Q: How often should I clean my steam wand?
A: You should wipe the steam wand immediately after every use. Built-up milk residue hardens quickly and becomes very difficult to remove later.
Q: Can a single machine make two shots at once?
A: Yes. Most single basket portafilters come with a double-spout, which allows you to split a double shot into two separate single cups simultaneously.
Q: What is the difference between a pressurized and non-pressurized portafilter basket?
A: Pressurized baskets have a smaller hole and create their own pressure. They are forgiving if your grind is inconsistent. Non-pressurized baskets require a very consistent, fine grind to work correctly but produce superior espresso.
Q: Why is my espresso coming out too fast or too slow?
A: This is usually related to the grind size. If it flows too fast (under-extracted), you need a finer grind. If it flows too slow or drips (over-extracted), you need a coarser grind.
Q: How important is metal construction over plastic?
A: Metal construction is very important for temperature stability. Metal holds heat better, which keeps your brewing temperature consistent shot after shot.
Q: What is a “portafilter”?
A: The portafilter is the handle with the basket that holds your ground coffee. You lock this device into the machine’s group head before brewing.
Q: Should I buy a used machine?
A: Used machines can save money, but check the age and condition of the seals and the pump. Older machines often need immediate descaling and seal replacement, which adds to the cost.
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!