7 Best Espresso Machines Under $1000

If you’re thinking of buying a well-functioning best espresso machine under $1000, there are a few things that you need to know and consider. This guide jots them all down, helping you to choose nothing but the best!

Maybe the saying “money can’t buy happiness” is true for some people; however, the definition of happiness differs from one person to the other. Being coffeecionados, our dopamine is released the moment we sip a cup of flavorsome espresso, and thus, we (coffee enthusiasts) can conclude that money can bring happiness, at least for us. Isn’t it? 

However, that doesn’t mean we necessarily need to incur a high recurring cost behind visiting cafes in the hunt for happiness or, in other words, a cup of espresso. There’s another way out, and that’s buying an espresso machine home that gratifies our coffee cravings whenever you want to.

Keeping that in mind and with a motto to help you make the most out of your investment, here we are with a hand-picked list of the best espresso machines under $1000. Get to know them all and choose the one you find capable of serving happiness in a cup. Here we go!

1. Breville Bambino Plus

Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Breville seems to have cracked the code of what home espresso is all about, and the Bambino Plus is the absolute example. The first impression of this gizmo gives off a premium appeal, especially with the royal champagne color (a hard-to-find color in coffee makers). Loaded with plenty of features in a compact size, the Bambino Plus has topped our handpicked list of the best espresso machines for reasons you will get to know below. 

This machine is the key to unlocking impressive espresso and fantabulous milk frothing, that too in the easiest way possible. Besides, this machine will be likelier for those who wake up early in the morning as it creates minimal noise while you get your cuppa joe ready. With a superfast heat-up time of just 3 seconds and giving access to control the water temperature, the Bambino Plus ensures that you are never deprived of a perfectly balanced taste, rich, velvety, and irresistibly-bodied coffee.

Now talking about the features, it boasts ThermoJet technology which enables it for the aforementioned 3-second heat-up time. You will also get to enjoy choosing between a single shot and a double shot, followed by the automatic purge system that ensures every single cup you brew comes at the ideal temperature (especially when you brew a cup right after the other). 

What’s most likable is the hands-free automatic steam wand which leaves no stone unturned when it comes to adding velvety microfoam or playing with latte art. Be it usability or cleaning the gizmo, both are relatively easy. Breville has designed this machine in a way that makes cleaning not a hassle but a delightful part of your home brewing experience. You will get a cleaning tool, a removable drip tray, and the accessibility to enter cleaning mode in just five seconds.

In a one-liner, the Breville Bambino Plus is a high-quality and highly efficient espresso machine that justifies its price to the fullest. If you want a package that comprises a compact design, great-tasting coffee, excellent milk frothing, and an affordable price tag – the Breville Bambino Plus is probably going to be the best call you can make.

What we liked

• Lightweight and compact design
• Scores high customer ratings
• Fast heat-up time
• Automatic milk frother with powerful steam pressure
• Super easy to clean and use
• Value for money

What we don’t like

• Not an ideal pick for those looking for a hands-on espresso machine
• Lacks built-in grinder

2. Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine

Last update on 2024-11-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Awarded as the manufacturer of the best cookware sets in 2021 by Consumer Reports, Calphalon now seems to be giving a tough fight to its fellow espresso machine manufacturers. The Temp IQ espresso machine from this brand is meant to lay its footprints on the countertops of those who have aspirations to become serious and committed home baristas. 

This semi-automatic espresso maker, with its 15-bar Italian pressure pump and a 3-seconds pre-infusion functionality, makes up for any flaws in the tamping technique or slight imperfections in grinds, thus delivering avant-garde cafe-like espresso shots. Besides, for those fond of lattes and cappuccinos, the Temp IQ will turn your milky beverages’ experience insanely delectable.

For beginners who want to start their voyage not with an entry-level espresso maker but with an advanced one – the Calphalon Temp IQ is probably one of the best espresso machines. The brand sends you a user manual that will guide you through each and every process of brewing, namely grinding procedure, tamping, and brewing with every little detail. In fact, you will also get to know the grind size for the beans you will be using. Besides, the grinder settings are marked faster/slower and coarse/fine, making it more accessible for to-be home baristas. 

Coming to the list of features, you will come across both must-have and good-to-have ones, which include a hot water dispenser, steam wand, auto-shot control, cup-warming tray, milk pitcher, double spouts, storage for portafilter and tamper, and of course, the classy grinder. 

Besides the Thermoblock heating system and PID temperature control, the gizmo boasts an Italian cream system. To elaborate, it carries dual-walled filter baskets, where unlike the first layer with multiple holes, the second layer has a single hole to create extra pressure at the extraction time. Thus, it produces velvety, smooth, and rich shots with an extra layer of the beloved crema on top. 

Overall, the mention of Calphalon Temp IQ won’t be an exaggeration if asked for the synonym for excellence. Be it a professional-level barista or someone who aspires to become the same; this gizmo will certainly make you fall for it.  

What we liked

• Makes minimal noise
• Easy to clean and use; comes with a step-by-step guide for beginners
• Removable 2.8-liter water tank
• Consistency in performance due to Thermoblock system and PID control
• Powerful steam wand
• Lets you calibrate the shot volume

What we don’t like

• A bit difficult to check the water levels in the reservoir
• Group heads made of plastic material

3. De’Longhi EC9155MB La Specialista Arte

Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Want your inner barista to flaunt your skills and nail every hook of perfection? Well, the De’Longhi La Specialista Arte will let you do so! Take it to your favorite coffee shop and ask the barista to prepare a shot of espresso using this gizmo; the chances are that the results would be almost similar to what the barista could have made with their expensive coffee maker at the cafe. 

Favorite of many, it comes with an alluring chrome finish and a professional-looking build and design – it’s capable of exciting those for whom the first impression matters. Additionally, it’s backed by a 2-year warranty, freeing you from any sort of worries related to durability. 

Talking about its performance, it produces excellent and intense espresso with thick crema. Whether single or double-shot, it takes just about 24 seconds to do the job. The steam wand does a decent job producing textured milk with velvety and thick bubbles with a temperature of around 131F. 

8 precise grind settings, 3 temperature settings, a commercial-style steam wand, and a handful of accessories like hardness tester, cleaning brush, descaler, single & double coffee filters, frothing jug, tamper, etc. – The De’Longhi La Specialista Arte comes to you with almost everything you will need to make your coffee brewing experience aristocratic and enjoyable. 

Most of the parts are dishwasher safe, thus making the clean process an easy-to-do task. However, being a manual machine, you will certainly need to invest a decent time in cleaning and maintaining the gizmo. De’Longhi sends a range of handy tools to contain the mess, simplifying your cleaning efforts to a certain extent. 

To conclude, the La Specialista Arte is meant for those who hate mess, brew milk-based beverages regularly, and don’t want to invest separately for a grinder. If you are among them, look no further than this commercial-level espresso machine which will let you customize your beverage the way you want.

What we liked

• Excellency in producing a smooth and rich espresso
• In-built grinder with 8 precise settings
• Powerful and efficient steam wand
• Sturdy build and commercial-like feel
• Comes with an array of tools

What we don’t like

• Not suitable for pods
• Cleaning may take time
• You will need little time to learn to use this machine to achieve excellence in cups

4. Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro

Last update on 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When it comes to semi-automatic/automatic espresso machines, Breville is the name that often strikes the buyer’s mind. With legendary products like Breville Express, which remained coffee lovers’ favorite for a decade, here comes another masterpiece from the brand – the Barista Pro. The handsome hunk looks classy due to its angular curves and glossiness and will undoubtedly be the first thing to drag one’s attention.

Meant to cater to both new and professional baristas, it comes with four filter baskets (single and double pressurized and non-pressurized). It comes with an in-inbuilt conical burr grinder which is pretty efficient in its job, followed by a 2-liter removable water tank with a low water detection sensor. 

Next comes the LCD screen in the front, which can be easily operated with a rotating and pressable button. It provides all the information you will require and guides you while you are in the grinding and extraction process. Engineered with a Thermojet heating system, this gizmo won’t let you wait long to satisfy your coffee cravings and will serve you the drink within minutes. Additionally, this feature also ensures the perfect temperature at every brew.

If you are a pro barista, you must be aware of the influence of water temperature in extraction. The Barista Pro houses Digital temperature control, which warrants optimal water temperature for the best espresso extraction, thus delivering rich and bold flavored coffee. 

Latte on your mind? Well, the powerful four-hole steam wand will allow you to make A-grade textured milk foam. Besides, with the Barista Pro, beginners will find it easy to use and can learn to master the art of microfoam milk texturing. 

In a one-liner, regardless of the experience you have, the Barista Pro can be the perfect companion for your daily brewing needs. Besides, if you are fond of contemporary machines and excellence in steaming milk is one of the must-haves for you, look no further than this automatic espresso machine.

What we liked

• All-in-one espresso machine
• Ideal for both beginners and adept baristas
• Excellent performance when it comes to latte art
• Fast transition between brewing and steaming
• Quick heat-up time
• Comes with an intuitive LCD display

What we don’t like

• Grinder is noisy
• Some may need to go through a learning curve

5. Rancilio Silvia

Last update on 2024-11-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Rancilio Silvia can be either beneficial or burdensome, depending on the person operating this espresso machine. While beginners may find it overwhelming and challenging to use, pro baristas will find it no less than a dream come true. The reason is that this gizmo is a professional-level espresso machine that allows (often forces) to customize each and every aspect of brewing. 

With maximal control in the user’s hand, the gizmo lets one produce rich and strong shots with hints of sweetness and, of course, great flavor. On the other hand, this machine won’t turn out to be a user-friendly one when you lack experience in brewing shots on your own. Besides, the Rancilio Silvia doesn’t come with an in-built grinder. Therefore, those who don’t have a grinder already will need to invest separately for the same. 

The professional-grade steam wand can efficiently create a luscious and rich foam, eliminating the need for visiting cafes to encounter those flavorsome lattes. The portafilter needs to be cleaned after every brew, and the same goes with the steam wand. Descaling this gadget will merely take an hour, and comprehensively, this gizmo demands a decent time for maintenance. 

To comprehend, the Rancilio Silvia can be the best espresso machine for under $1000 only for a specific set of users; highly experienced baristas who are aware of the ins and outs of espresso brewing and can play with shot length and pump pressure.

What we liked

• Heavy-duty steam wand with ball joint
• Commercial-sized portafilter and group head
• Minimalist exterior and classic aesthetics
• Sturdy build with iron frame and stainless steel

What we don’t like

• Lacks temperature and steam gauges
• Not at all user-friendly for beginners

6. De’Longhi La Specialista

Last update on 2024-11-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The reason why one chooses a semi-automatic espresso machine is the love for espresso, which bounds to pull shots with self expertise; the De’Longhi La Specialista is meant to serve this category of brewers. Wait, beginners shouldn’t be disappointed with the premium glance of the machine; De’Longhi has kept them in mind, too, while engineering this elegant espresso machine.

The interface is pretty straightforward, and navigating through them isn’t a hassle at all. It boasts a bean hopper as well as a pressure gauge. With the control panel, you can alter the dose amount, choose between single and double shots, and even utilize preset coffee recipes. Situated on the left, the sensor grinder allows you to adjust the coarse level and starts grinding the moment you insert the portafilter. 

Additionally, it has a smart tamping station which is essential for beginners as they often make mistakes with tamping pressure. With this feature, you will just require to pull down a lever once grinding is done, and bingo – there’s no scope for flaws in tamping. The built-in grinder is a smart one that alerts you when running low on beans and alters the dose as per your coarseness setting. 

Talking about the most important aspect – “quality of espresso” – the La Specialista, with its 19 bars of pump pressure, will ensure you enjoy flavorsome cups every single time. It lets the grounds go through pre-infusion, thus enhancing the flavor profile of your cups. However, you won’t be having PID temperature control with this gizmo but would rather have Active Temperature Control to ensure stable temperatures for extraction and milk texturing.

The transition between brewing and steaming is very fast, but you won’t be able to do it simultaneously. The Pannarello steam wand powered by Advanced Latte System lets you select froth style for various milk-based beverages. Besides, there’s an additional feature, i.e., a separate hot water spout, which is beneficial in many ways. 

Overall, De’Longhi La Specialista is all about features and providing you with the best convenience possible. For anyone who doesn’t want to become a specialized barista but would love to contribute in a few steps of brewing espresso, this gadget is the best pick you can make.

What we liked

• Sensor grinding technology detects portafilter
• Consistent water temperature 
• No need to buy a separate tamper as it comes with a smart tamping station
• Dedicated boilers – one for brewing and the other for steaming
• Alluring aesthetics

What we don’t like

• Won’t allow using ESE pods
• Lacks PID control

7. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch

Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Each Breville espresso machine comes with a definite USP (Unique Selling Point), and with the Barista Touch, it’s the ease of use and convenience. Though it’s priced a little above our $1000 bracket, but with features like a built-in, conical burr grinder, dose control, PID temperature control, automatic pre-infusion, and automatic steam wand – the gizmo will surely impress you if you value convenience, delectable espresso, and top-notch frothed milk.

You will get four filter baskets, pressurized and non-pressurized, for single and double shots. Therefore, be it brewing from freshly ground beans (always recommended) or a quick shot of decaf from pre-ground beans, you will be ready for both. PID control is the best hack when it’s about achieving a steady brew temperature so as to brew the perfect shot of espresso, and the Barista Touch is gifted with this feature. 

Together, all these features, along with pre-infusion, make sure that the quality of the espresso makes you feel that you are utilizing every penny of your investment. The touchscreen allows you to toggle through pre-programmed brewing options such as Americano, espresso, flat white, etc. Furthermore, you can customize any of these beverages as per your preference and prepare up to 8 custom recipes and save them for future brewing. Now, that’s called convenience, ain’t it? 

Experience the deliciousness of creamy foam with the Panarello steam wand, which allows you to set the temperature anywhere between 110-170 °F. You get to choose between eight milk textures, so be it a latte, cappuccino, or any other milk-infused beverage – this gizmo will certainly bring a smile to your face with its frothing efficiency. Additionally, it features automatic cleaning cycles and alerts when it’s cleaning time, therefore, adding more to the convenience. 

To sum up, if ease of use and convenience is what inclines you toward an espresso maker, the Breville Barista Touch is meant for you. Besides, it produces good espresso and is competitive in terms of its fellow competitors at the price point when it comes to milk frothing and overall build quality.

What we liked

• Hands-free operation
• Intuitive display with pre-programmed recipes
• Ability to adjust the coffee intensity
• PID temperature control
• Milk temperature and texture control
• Decent build with brushed stainless steel exterior

What we don’t like

• Difficulty in replacing the water filter
• The water reservoir is not accessible from the front

How to choose the Best Espresso Machine Under $1000?

Though we introduced you to the best espresso machines, it’s worth mentioning that each of them specializes in a particular way. For example, the Barista Touch stands best when you are looking for convenience, whereas the Rancilio Silvia is the best option when you are looking to engage in every aspect of customizing your espresso. Therefore, there are a few factors to consider before you make the buying decision. Here’s a list of factors you should be considering!

First and foremost – The Budget

Budget is certainly the most crucial factor when planning to bring an espresso machine home. However, often first-timers make the mistake of investing 70-80% of their budget towards the machine itself. When it’s espresso, the grinder becomes an inevitable element to help you unleash the best shots. Therefore, it’s recommended to split your budget 60-40, i.e., 60% for the machine, at 40% for the grinder. However, if the espresso machine you choose already boasts a built-in grinder (most of what we mention has it), then you don’t need to worry about the said fact.

Also Read: Best Espresso Machines Under $300

Now comes the Space

Before you order your gizmo, make sure that you have the space to accommodate the espresso machine. Typically, semi-automatic and automatic espresso makers demand a decent space. Therefore, take a measuring tape and analyze the space you have. Once you find that the machine you are willing to order will easily fit the area, you are good to go. Also, a few machines need some free space on the top so that you can operate them easily. This is because often, the grinder and bean hopper is generally placed at the top of the machine. So, take this factor into consideration, too, while you measure the countertop.

What Type of Drink do you Prefer?

Though buying an espresso machine doesn’t necessarily mean you will always be having espresso drinks. Often, many people like to have lattes more than espresso, and this is why you should be taking your preference into account. If you prefer large milk-based beverages, you should look for a dual boiler or heat exchanger machine. On the other hand, if you prefer straight espressos or Americanos, a single boiler will do the job.

How often are you willing to Brew?

With this question, you will again need to consider the boiler aspect. If it’s about brewing single cups just for your mornings and evenings, a single or small dual boiler will do. But, if you are planning to make multiple drinks one after the other, you should go for a large dual boiler machine. 

Look for the Features

Some of the espresso machines come with a digital display, while some will lack it. Some will carry PID temperature control, auto shut-off, dishwasher friendly parts, while some might not have it all. Therefore, make sure that you choose an espresso machine with features that you can’t compromise on. After all, it’s your hard-earned money, and you should be making the most out of it while making a purchase. 

Wrapping up

So, hopefully, our hand-picked list of the best espresso machine under $1000 has helped you choose the one which is soon going to give you coffee therapy. Tally them well with your needs and the buying guide we mentioned above, and bring home the gizmo of your choice. Who knows, with this write-up, we might have laid the stepping stone to help you become a pro barista in the days to come. Cheers!