We gathered five machines with complete reviews and comparisons to help you choose the best espresso machine for under $300. Nothing beats a cup of freshly made espresso in the comfort of your home.
Although it is hard to mimic the espresso made by coffee shops, having an espresso machine in your house gives you the freedom to make your own anytime you want.
The best espresso machine under 200 will be an excellent investment if you are on a tight budget.
It may not be as good as the more expensive models, but it has the essential features to make a delicious espresso flavor.
Best Espresso Machine Under $300 For 2021: Reviews
We listed here some of the most affordable espresso machines you can buy and curated a short buying guide and FAQ to help you decide.
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Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Pump Espresso Maker | Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine | Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso Machine | Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Espresso Maker | Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse |
1. Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Pump Espresso Maker
Mr. Coffee has been in the coffee industry since 1970. In terms of experience, they are one of the top brands in the market.
The Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Pump Espresso Maker is one of their mid-range options.
It is a popular choice for people who are just starting espresso making.
Product Highlights
The Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is a semi-automatic 3-in-1 espresso machine with a one-touch control panel for easy brewing.
You can choose from single and double shots, cappuccino, or latte.
The electric 15-bar pump can create intense pressure to produce rich and bold flavors while brewing.
This machine can also automatically froth milk when you choose a latte or cappuccino.
A removable milk reservoir is included, which you can fill with milk and let the café Barista determine the required amount.
Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Pump Espresso Maker is simple because you just need to select the grounds, put milk in the reservoir, and choose your brew.
Coffee
What We Like
The best thing about the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Pump Espresso Maker is its ease of use.
It is very user-friendly since there are only three buttons and simple indicator lights.
You don't need to spend so much time learning the buttons' intricacies.
You can just scan the instruction manual and determine what each button does.
What We Don't Like
You can't expect much from an affordable espresso machine, but the cleaning process is the most noticeable downside of the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista.
You must clean it after every use, and it takes a lot of time to clean every part thoroughly.
That is because you still need to run the machine several times to clean its internal parts.
PROS
Easy to use
Automatic milk frother
Multi-functional
Sturdy build
One-touch control panel
CONS
Time-consuming cleaning process
2. Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is an excellent addition to your kitchen with its elegant design and unique functionalities.
It is an affordable way of making espresso in your home's comfort.
Product Highlights
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is known for its stylish design, stainless-steel surfaces, and well-thought-off color combinations.
It's powerful, even with its compact housing. It also comes with a cup tray and stainless-steel components.
This machine has 1,470 watts of power and a 15-bar pressure level that fully unleashes the espresso's full aroma.
It has a removable water tank that can hold up to 1.25 liters of water, which is enough for six cups of espresso.
It can even prepare two cups at the same time.
The hot plate on the lid will keep the brewed drinks warm for a while.
There is also a steaming nozzle included that would create milky drinks.
You can even adjust the nozzle based on your preferences.
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 is very easy to use. Likewise, after-use cleaning is effortless, thanks to its stainless steel mesh drip tray.
What We Like
The most notable feature of the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is its adjustable steaming nozzle.
Unlike other models, you can adjust the milk foam according to your preferences.
What We Don't Like
The only issue with the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is the speed.
The frother takes time to heat up and create milk, so it is not a good choice for people who are always in a rush.
PROS
Easy to use
Solid construction
Easy to clean
Removable water tank
Adjustable steaming nozzle
CONS
Slow on creating milk
3. Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso Machine
As the name implies, Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso is a machine capable of brewing two espressos simultaneously.
Although espresso brands have the same features, it is one of the most affordable models today.
Product Highlights
Mr. Coffee is famous for its one-touch control espresso machines, and this automatic dual-shot espresso is the same.
There is no learning curve involved since it is straightforward to use.
There are indicator lights, and the buttons are pretty straightforward.
The Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso Machine also features a powerful pump that will provide sufficient pressure to push the water through the ground coffee.
It will allow the espresso machine to extract more flavors from the coffee resulting in a bold and rich espresso.
Its thermal block heating system allows a faster healing time for the espresso.
The machine also has a large water reservoir with a 40-ounce capacity, so you won't have to refill it constantly.
The water reservoir can also be detached so you can clean it easily.
Last, the machine comes with a removable drip tray to catch the coffee drips from the portafilter, making it easy to clean.
What We Like
We love the fact that for a reasonable price, you and your family can enjoy your espresso without waiting for a long time.
The machine's faster brewing time and dual-shot feature are also two of its great features.
That is because you can make multiple cups of espresso in just a few minutes.
What We Don't Like
The primary concern with the Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso is that you can't froth your milk and brew your coffee simultaneously.
Brewing a cup of latte or cappuccino would be much faster if you could simultaneously do both tasks.
PROS
Large capacity
Easy to use
Solid construction
Fast heating time
Removable drip tray
Easy to cleacan'tNS
You can't brew coffee and froth milk simultaneouslyhome's.can't
4. Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Espresso Maker
If you are looking for an entry-level espresso machine that will not break the bank, the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma is an excellent option.
It has all the essential features you need to create that rich and flavorful espresso in the comfort of your home.
Product Highlights
With brewing capability, Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma provides an excellent flavor to your espresso with its 15-bar thermoblock pump.
The dual- and single-shot filters can help improve the consistency of the espresso and the crema formation.
It has a suitable filter for pods, an essential option if you want to try flavored coffees.
As an entry-level machine, Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma is straightforward, and the buttons are pretty clear.
It has a tamper that you can use as a scoop for ground coffee, a cleaning tool, and a milk frothing pitcher.
There is also a die-cast metal top surface that you can use as a warminmachine'sThe machine's design lets you see the water level conveniently, so you would know if it is time to refill.
You can create latte and cappuccino with this fantastic espresso machine since it comes with a steam wand and froth enhancer.
It will not froth automatically, so you need to operate it manually.
What We Like
One reason we like the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma is its simplicity.
The espresso machine is not too eye-catching but has an exquisite appearance.
The controls are straightforward to learn, and you can use them without even reading the instructions manuaDon'tWhat We Don't Like
The Breville ESP8 doesn't Roma doesn't have an automatic milk frother, which is not a big issue for coffee lovers. However, since this espresso machine is an entry-level model, letting the user froth the milk manually is a bit problematic, especially if they don't have any experience with it.
PROS
Easy to use
Solid construction
Elegant design
15-bar thermoblock pump
CONS
No automatic milk frother
5. Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is a popular machine made for people who want to experience high-quality espresso in the comfort of their homes.
It is an upgraded veCoffee's Mr. Coffee's Café Barista.
Most of the parts are similar, but there are a lot of improvements made on this newer version.
Product Highlights
Like the café Barista, the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is very easy to use because of its one-touch button system.
Depending on your mug's size, you must press the button twice.
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is a semi-automatic espresso machine with an automatic milk frothing system that would immediately start after choosing the type of espresso you want.
You can also use a turn dial to adjust the stirring, and the machine will do the rest.
The machine also has a milk reservoir holding up to 650 milliliters of liquid.
Most machines with the same price tag have 15 to 17 bars, but a 19-bar system would provide the highest quality taste on your espresso powered by the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse.
It also comes with a Thermo-couple heating system that will guarantee quick and uniform heating.
What We Like
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is a top choice for espresso machines because of its 19-bar system.
If you prefer a richer flavor in your coffee, this machine can extract more flavor from the coffee beans.
If you are very meticulous about the taste of your coffee, this espresso machine will not disappoint yoDon'tWhat We Don't Like
One complaint about this espresso machine is not its performance but the availability of replacement parts.
If your Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse suddenly malfunctions and a certain part needs replacing, it would be difficult to find the parts.
PROS
Easy to use
Solid construction
19-bar system
Easy to clean
Automatic milk frothing system
CONS
Replacement parts are hard to find
Best Espresso MachineBuyer's $300/Buyer's Guide
More and more people are looking for the best espresso machine under 300, but most cannot pinpoint the most important features you need to look for in a coffee maker.
All the espresso machines on the market can brew coffee, but they have significant differences, especially with special features and functionalities.
Here is a simple guide to help you find the best espresso machine.
1. Type of Espresso Machine
Before you look at the features, you should first figure out the type of espresso machine you will buy.
Some of your choices include:
· Semi-Automatic
This is the most common type of espresso machine. It has an electric brewing pump that you need to turn on or off.
They are straightforward, but we need manual intervention to make espresso.
· Super-Automatic
Super-Automatic is the most advanced espresso machine on the market because it will process everything for you.
It will turn the coffee beans into a cup of espresso with just a button push.
· Manual
Manual espresso machines are the oldest style of making espresso, and you need to be skilled in creating a flavorful cup of espresso.
It is a machine used by many coffee enthusiasts, especially those constantly searching for unique tastes.
· Capsule
In terms of convenience, capsule espresso machines are the best choice.
They are most especially suitable for offices and restaurants.
You need to insert a capsule filled with ground coffee that will produce an authentic espresso in a few minutes.
· Steam-Powered
This is one of the least popular espresso machines because it is tough to use.
It cannot create the right temperature for brewing.
2. Ease of Operation
The ease of operation all goes down to the espresso machine's operation.
Most newer models are user-friendly and usually have around three to four buttons.
The operation can also be subjective since it depends on the person using it.
If you are a beginner, using a semi- or fully automatic espresso machine would provide the ultimate convenience since you don't have to do anything complicated manually.
If you prefer to do most of the processes manually, some models can offer what you need.
3. Size
Most people don't care about size because espresso machines are not too big to eat up a lot of space in your kitchen.
However, size becomes an issue if you have a crowded kitchen and want to add an espresso machine.
Check the space in your kitchen and find an area where you want to place the espresso machine.
If you plan to use the espresso machine regularly, it should have a permanent space in your kitchen.
It is also better to know how big the area is so that you can figure out the best size of an espresso machine to purchase.
Single espresso machines are smaller than double espresso machines, so you should also consider the number of people in your house who would use them.
If there are only around one or two people who will use the espresso machine, a single espresso machine will do.
A double espresso machine will be better if more adults are in your house.
The size of an espresso machine can also be determined based on how you plan to use it.
Getting a bigger one is viable if you will use it to entertain guests.
4. Cost
A lot of factors affect the cost of the espresso machine.
If you find it confusing, here are some things that can affect the overall price of the espresso machine:
· Durability and Quality of Materials
Most espresso machines are costly because they are made from high-quality materials.
It means that they are more durable and long-lasting compared with cheaper models.
It is an excellent choice if you prefer longevity over extra features.
· Extra Features
The more extra features the espresso machine has, the more expensive it gets.
Some features are not too essential but add up to the overall price.
Hence, check the extra features and ensure you have a use for them all.
If you are very particular about the flavor, you need to get an espresso machine with a higher price tag.
They are more expensive because they can fully extract the flavor of the coffee beans.
The entry-level and mid-range models are great choices if you want some caffeine on your system.
Espresso Machine FAQs
1. Are Home Espresso Machines Worth It?
The worth of the espresso machine depends on how often you will use it.
Some people are not fond of caffeinated drinks, while some would not have a "don't complete" day without them.
If you are a coffee lover or the people in your house love to drink coffee, espresso machines are an excellent investment.
Instead of going out and buying espresso at a coffee shop that would cost a few dollars, you can make your own in the comfort of your home with little to no cost.
If you suddenly have the urge to drink coffee in the middle of the night, you can make your espresso.
2. Can I Use Regular Coffee for Espresso?
Some people think they make espresso with a particular type of coffee bean, a misconception from the concept developed by grocery stores and coffee chains.
You can use coffee beans, such as Kona, Sumatra, and Kenya AA, when making a cup of espresso.
4. How Long Should an Espresso Machine Last?
The average lifespan of a standard espresso machine is about six to 10 years, depending on its brand and build.
Cheaper models would break down in just a couple of years, but the more expensive ones would last long.
Cheaper brands use cheaper materials, so it makes sense that the parts would not withstand frequent usage.
If you don't mind the price, the more expensive models are better in terms of longevity and durability.
5. What Espresso Machines Do Starbucks Use?
Starbucks is using an automatic espresso machine by Thermoplan, a Swiss-based company.
They signed as the exclusive supplier of espresso machines in 1999.
Starbucks is using the Mastrena high-performance espresso machine.
Unfortunately, this is not available to the public. It is an espresso machine exclusive to Starbucks.
The good thing is you can always look for a model with the same features.
6. How Often Should You Clean Your Espresso Machine?
It would be best if you cleaned your espresso machine regularly.
If you use your espresso machine, clean it as soon as you finish brewing.
You can clean the outer part and the parts that you can detach.
As for back-flushing, you must do it after about 200 shots of coffee.
Back-flushing is forcing water and cleaning solutions through the systems.
This process helps remove the pressure valve's buildup and ensures it always works correctly.
Final Verdict
Buying an expensive espresso machine is a choice.
You don't need to invest much in this unless you plan to start a coffee shop.
If you plan to use one at home, the best espresso machine for under $200 will do.
That said, among the different models we reviewed above, our top pick would be the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse.
It doesn't have a lot of flaws and is an updated version of the café Barista, which is also one of the best choices.
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