Espresso is a staple for coffee lovers everywhere, and a good espresso machine is essential for brewing the perfect cup at home. However, finding a high-quality machine that fits within a budget can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best espresso machines under $200.
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a casual drinker, these machines offer a range of features and capabilities to suit your needs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what to consider when shopping for an espresso machine, as well as our top picks. So, whether you’re looking to upgrade your current machine or invest in your first one, read on to find the perfect fit for your home and budget.
A Glimpse of the 2023 Winners
The following table includes the top ten choices of our experts for 2023, with suggestions for all budgets and types of machines.
Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine
- Semi-Automatic
- Programmable
- 15-Bars Pressure Pump
De’longhi Ecp3420
- Easy-to-use Interface
- Removable Water Tank
- Customizable Foam Texture
De’longhi Stilosa Manual
- Lightweight Design
- 34 oz Water Tank
- 15-Bars Pressure Pump
Nespresso Vertuo Espresso Machine
- Fully Automated Pod Coffee Maker
- 25-sec Heat up Time
- Brew 4 Different Cup Sizes
Gevi Espresso Machine
- Dual Temperature Control
- Steam Wand rotates 360 Degrees
- Produces both Single and Double-shot
KLARSTEIN Passionata Rossa
- Simple and Compact Design
- 20 Bars of Pressure
- Large Water Tank for 6 Cups
Our Top Recommendations for the Best Espresso Machine under $200
Still uncertain? Continue reading to learn more about why these are our top-rated espresso machines under $200.
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
- Dimensions: 8.86"D x 11.22"W x 12.6"H
- Semi-automatic, Programmable
- One Touch Control Panel
- 15 Bar Pump System
- Large water reservoir
Leading the pack in our top choices is a machine that truly delivers on its promise of producing professional quality espresso, introducing the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine. It is a semi-automatic 3-in-1 espresso maker that offers a range of features. One of the key features of this machine is its 15 Bar Pump System, and the cord length of 26 inches allows for easy placement in your kitchen. With a power of 1040 watts, this machine is capable of producing coffee cafe barista-style drinks in the comfort of your home.
The one-touch control panel allows you to easily control the strength of your espresso, select between single and double shots, and choose between brewing espresso or frothing milk for cappuccinos and lattes. The machine also comes with a 54-ounce removable water reservoir, making it easy to refill and clean.
This Machine boasts a sleek silver and black design, while some of its components may be made of plastic. It comes complete with everything you need to brew a perfect cup of espresso, including a portafilter, plastic tamper, and both single and double-shot filters. Overall, Mr. Coffee is a budget-friendly option for those looking to make delicious espresso at home.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Compact and lightweight design
- Built-in Automatic milk frother
- Easy to clean and maintain with removable parts
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Does not have a built-in grinder
- Less durable than more expensive models
- Some components may be made of plastic
De’longhi Ecp3420 Bar Pump Espresso
- Easy-to-use Interface
- Removable Water Tank
- Customizable Foam Texture
- Brews Authentic Beverages
- Adjustable Tray
Ranking high on the list of budget-friendly options is the DeLonghi ECP3420, a durable and stylish machine constructed with a combination of ABS plastic and stainless steel accents. A semi-automatic espresso machine that offers a range of features and capabilities at a reasonable price point. One of the key features of this machine is its 15-bar pressure pump, which provides the necessary pressure for brewing rich and flavorful espresso.
The pressurized portafilter is a 3-in-1, which means you can pull a single or double shot espresso and use it with ESE pods, making it versatile for different coffee preferences. The manual frother allows you to make frothy milk for your cappuccinos, lattes and other specialty drinks with ease. The Advanced Cappuccino System maintains the optimal temperature for brewing and the frothing process.
The ECP3420 is designed to accommodate taller cups, allowing you to brew a variety of drinks with different cup sizes. The sleek space-saving design of this machine makes it a great option for small kitchens or apartments. The convenient water tank is removable and easy to refill, making it simple to maintain the machine.
Overall, it is a great option for those looking for an all-purpose and convenient best espresso machines under 200 dollars.
Pros
- Produces genuine, professional-grade coffee drinks
- Cappuccino System with manual frother
- Simple to clean and descale.
- Separate thermostats
Cons
- Some components may be made of ABS plastic
- Brewing capacity is limited
- No built-in grinder
De’longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine
- Lightweight Design
- 34 oz Water Tank
- 15-Bars Pressure Pump
- Manual Milk Frother
- Stainless Steel Boiler
A manual espresso machine that allows you to make café-style drinks at home. This machine is designed to brew delicious and high-quality espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes using your own ground coffee beans. De’Longhi has a reputation for producing budget-friendly espresso machines that offer great value for money. While other brands like Breville may be more popular for high-end machines, its offerings are an excellent choice for those looking for a more affordable option.
Equipped with a powerful 15 BAR Pump, this machine is able to brew rich and flavorful espresso with ease. The manual milk frother allows for the easy creation of frothy milk for cappuccinos, lattes, and other specialty drinks.
Constructed with a durable stainless steel boiler, the Stilosa maintains optimal temperatures for brewing and frothing ensuring a perfect cup every time. The package includes a portafilter and 2 filters, which allow for the use of different coffee beans and flexibility in coffee preferences. The 2-level cup holder allows for the use of different cup sizes, making it adaptable. The compact and lightweight design of this machine make it easy to store and move around, making it a great option for small kitchens or apartments.
Pros
- Compact and sleek design
- An affordable option for single or double shots of espresso
- ESE pods are compatible
- Indicator displays water levels
Cons
- Manual lever operation requires more skill
- It doesn't have a lot of programmable settings
Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine
- Compact design
- Auto Shut-Off
- Removable Tank, Programmable
- Milk Frother
- 25 sec Heat Up Time
A stylish and compact option for coffee lovers, The Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville’s piano black finish, will blend seamlessly into any kitchen décor while providing an easy and convenient coffee brewing experience.
One of the standout features of this machine is its ability to brew high-quality espresso with just one touch of a button. The machine includes a 25-second heat-up and energy-saving automatic shut-off, which allows for a quick and efficient brewing process. It is equipped with a 19-bar high-pressure pump that ensures that the water is delivered at the perfect temperature and pressure to extract the full flavor and aroma of the coffee. This Mini espresso machine brews 2 single-serve cup sizes all with just one touch of a button.
The machine also has an automatic energy-saving feature that turns off the machine after 9 minutes of inactivity, which helps to conserve energy. One thing to keep in mind is that this machine only uses Nespresso’s patented coffee capsules, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Automatic energy-saving feature
- Makes good espresso with a crema
- Easy to use, one-button operation
Cons
- Only uses Nespresso's patented coffee capsules
- Machine's water tank is too small
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine
- Reads barcode on the pod and Brews Automatically
- 25-sec Heat up Time
- Brew 4 Different Cup Sizes
- Easy to Clean
- One Touch Brew Feature
An innovative and versatile option that offers a variety of flavors and strengths to suit your taste, The Nespresso vertuo coffee and Espresso machine is equipped with advanced features such as 25-sec heat up, energy-saving automatic shut off, all in a sleek and stylish design that will complement any kitchen décor. Don’t settle for just any coffee machine, elevate your at-home brewing experience with this top-of-the-line option.
This machine is designed to brew both coffee and espresso using Nespresso’s patented coffee capsules. The machine comes with a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules (capsule assortment may vary from picture) to get you started. One of the standout features of this machine is its Centrifusion technology, which spins the capsule at high speed to extract the coffee’s full flavor and aroma.
The water tank is removable and has a large capacity of 40 oz, which allows you to brew multiple cups before needing to refill it. This high-end machine with 10.85-pound weight and has quite a few features like innovative programs and energy-saving automatic shut off, Brew 4 different cup sizes. 13 count used pods container, a complimentary starter and a convenient auto-off feature.
Pros
- Brew both coffee and espresso with the push button
- Heating up quickly
- Comprehensive two-year warranty
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Only compatible with Nespresso Original Line capsules
- Environmental impact of single-use coffee pods
Gevi Espresso Machine
- Dual Temperature Control
- Steam Wand rotates 360 Degrees
- Produces both Single and Double-shot
- Stylish And Durable
- 15-Bar Pressure Pump
Stepping up in our list of budget-friendly Espresso Machines is the Gevi Espresso Machine, a cost-effective choice for those seeking a high-quality Espresso. This Machine is equipped with a manual steam wand that allows you to create frothy milk for cappuccinos, lattes, and other specialty drinks. It is also designed with two separate thermometres that control the brewing and steaming temperature. This ensures that the water is at the optimal temperature for both brewing espresso and steaming milk. This means you can enjoy your coffee and espresso at the perfect temperature every time. The 1.5 liters separate water tank is also removable and easy to clean.
The package includes a Portafilter, double shots filter, Measuring Scoop/Tamper and a manual that gives you instructions on how to use the machine. This machine is manual and requires some skills to use but the results are worth the effort.
It also comes with a removable drip tray that makes cleaning easy and convenient. The drip tray is designed to catch any excess water or coffee that may drip from the machine during the brewing process. The machine is also equipped to brew two cups of 60ml/ 2oz at a time with the recommended 14g/ 2 spoons powder for the best concentration.
Pros
- Pre-infusion at lower pressure for more robust espresso shots
- Create barista-quality microfoam with its powerful milk wand
- Dual temperature control
- Stainless steel boiler
Cons
- Doesn't have any automatic shut-off feature
- Require manual skills to use
NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Coffee Machine
- Easy Interface
- Programmable
- Allows high Level Extraction
- 15 Bars of Pressure
- Capsule Bin
A versatile and easy-to-use capsule-based coffee machine that offers a wide variety of decadent flavors and coffee house-inspired drinks. With 15 flavor varieties to choose from, there’s something for every coffee lover to enjoy. The easy interface allows you to quickly and easily adjust the LED display using the toggle stick and the LED bars to the bars on your Dolce Gusto capsule.
The Nescafe Dolce Gusto Genio 2 has 15 bars of pressure, which allows for perfect extraction of flavor and aroma, resulting in a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee every time. The machine’s pressure system ensures ultimate coffee freshness by preserving the taste and aroma of the coffee. The machine also has a convenient toggle stick that lets you position the toggle stick to either hot or cold and brew.
One of the best features of the Dolce Gusto is the ability to customize your coffee to your liking. The machine allows you to adjust the strength and intensity of your coffee, so you can enjoy coffee just the way you like it. This is a great option for coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy a variety of flavors and styles without having to go to a coffee house.
Pros
- Wide variety of flavors and coffee house-inspired drinks
- Easy to use Interface
- Machine automatically turns off after 5 minutes
- Best Fit for single-cup brewing
Cons
- Limited to Nescafe Dolce Gusto capsules only
- Water compartment does not detach easily
- Only ideal for specialty coffee drinker
STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine
- Lightweight and Portable
- 20 Bars of Pressure
- Easy Cleaning Design
- Stainless Steel Inner Tank
- Winner 2016 Red Dot Design Award
For coffee enthusiasts looking for a convenient and user-friendly option, the STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine is a must-have among the available espresso machines. The high-quality 304 stainless steel material ensures that the machine is durable and long-lasting, while the removable design means that all areas of the machine are fully washable.
One of the best features of this portable espresso machine is that it is manually operated and requires no batteries or power, making it perfect for travel or outdoor use. The compact and lightweight design (460g) make it easy to take with you on the go. The segmented pressure-making principle maintains a consistent pressure of around 20 bar in the powder compartment to produce rich oil and fruity flavors, resulting in the ideal extraction rate of coffee (18-22%).
The STARESSO portable espresso is also suitable for a variety of coffee extraction. You can use the powder scoop to compact coffee grounds and the coffee basket can hold 10g of coffee powder or 5-6g of capsules. The water tank can hold 60-80ml of boiling water or ice water, making it easy to operate and get 30-50ml of espresso in just 1-2 minutes. Additionally, you can add water to make Americano or add milk to make a latte. This portable coffee maker is compatible with both capsules and coffee powder, giving you the freedom to enjoy your favorite coffee wherever you go.
Pros
- Produces tasty espresso with a thick crema
- Compatible with both capsules and coffee powder
- Affordable Price
- Removable design allows for easy cleaning
Cons
- It may be difficult to add coffee to the filter basket
- Pumping is a bit loud
KLARSTEIN Passionata Rossa Espresso Machine
- Simple and Compact Design
- 20 Bars of Pressure
- High Powered Milk Foaming
- Removable Drip Tray
- Large Water Tank for 6 Cups
Next up is the KLARSTEIN Passionata Rossa Espresso Machine. With its brushed stainless-steel finish and 20 bars of pressure, this machine is sure to impress. And its removable water tank that can hold enough water for 6 cups of coffee and simple cleaning make it as convenient as it is beautiful. Say goodbye to long lines at the coffee shop and hello to café-quality drinks in the comfort of your own home.
The KLARSTEIN is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. The milk reservoir is also connected to a built-in milk frother, allowing for easy cappuccino and latte preparation. Cleaning after use is also a breeze, as the removable water tank and other parts can be easily cleaned.
Overall, this Machine is also a great option for coffee aficionado looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use machine that delivers delicious, professional-grade espresso.
Pros
- With a single filling of the water tank, can brew up to 6 cups
- Easy to use and clean
- Easy milk frothing with a steaming nozzle
- 2 years warranty
Cons
- Plastic is used in some filter components
Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine
- 15 Bar Italian Pump
- Swivel Steam Wand
- Cup Warmer
- Compact Size
- Slide-in Portafilter
Our least preferred budget-friendly option is the Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine. While this machine is affordable, it falls short in comparison to other models in terms of performance and ease of use. The machine is also relatively bulky and takes up a lot of counter space. With its 15 Bar Italian pump, you can expect cafe-quality results every time you brew a cup of coffee. Whether you prefer to use espresso pods or ground espresso, this machine can handle it all. The easy setup and swiveling steam wand make it simple to create delicious cappuccinos and lattes right at home.
One of the standout features of this machine is the cup warmer, which ensures that your coffee stays at the perfect temperature while you enjoy it.
Unlike other machines, this one eliminates the need for maneuvering and twisting the portafilter to lock in the brew head, as it can be easily inserted with a simple slide-in motion.
Pros
- Produce latte, espresso and cappuccino
- Easy to clean
- Budget-friendly
- Durable
Cons
- No automatic features
- Somewhat bulky
- Some plastic parts
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Best Espresso Machine under $200
When purchasing an espresso machine, there are a number of factors to consider in order to ensure you get the best machine for your needs and budget. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:
Usage
How often and for what purpose you plan to use your espresso machine will also play a role in determining which machine to purchase. If you’re a heavy user and plan to make espresso on a daily basis, it may be worth investing in a higher-end machine with more durable components. On the other hand, if you only plan to use it occasionally, a more basic machine may be sufficient.
Size and Portability
Espresso machines can vary greatly in size and portability, so it’s important to consider where you plan to keep the machine and how easy it is to move around. If you have limited counter space, a compact machine may be a better option. If you plan to take your machine with you on the go, look for one that is lightweight and easy to transport.
Features
Espresso machines come with a wide range of features, from manual to semi-automatic to fully automatic. It’s important to consider which features are important to you and which you can do without. One key feature to look for is a milk frother, which allows you to make lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks. Some machines have a manual steam wand, while others have an automatic frother. Another important feature to consider is the brewing options. Some machines allow you to choose from a variety of coffee types, such as espresso, Americano, and lungo, while others are more limited. Some machines also have programmable settings, which can be useful for those who want a consistent brew every time.
Consider the ease of use and simplicity of the machine’s design. This can make it easy to operate the machine and helps to avoid confusion.
Budget
One of the most important considerations when purchasing an espresso machine is your budget. Espresso machines can range in price from under $100 to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget and stick to it, while also keeping in mind that a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee a better machine.
Maintenance and Ease of Use
Espresso machines require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Consider how easy the machine is to clean and maintain before making a purchase. Additionally, consider how user-friendly the machine is, as some machines can be quite complex to operate.
Capacity
One important aspect of capacity to consider is the size of the water reservoir. A large water reservoir means that you won’t have to refill it constantly, which can save you time and hassle. A twin-brew head is another feature that can increase the capacity of an espresso machine. This allows you to brew two cups of espresso at the same time, which can be useful if you need to make multiple cups in a short amount of time.
Pressure
Pressure is a crucial aspect of espresso brewing because it is what pushes pressurized hot water through the coffee grounds to extract the flavor. The industry standard pressure for espresso brewing is nine bars. However, many brewers believe that a pressure of 15 to 17 bars is necessary to achieve the best flavor extraction. Higher pressure can also lead to a thicker crema, which is the foam that forms on top of a properly brewed espresso shot. It’s important to note that higher pressure can also add to the cost of the machine, so decide what you really need.
Brand and Warranty
Finally, consider the brand of the machine and the length and terms of the warranty. A reputable brand with a solid warranty can provide peace of mind and ensure that you have a reliable machine that will last for years to come.
Wait! Are you not interested in purchasing espresso yet? We’ve also evaluated the Smallest K Cup Coffee Makers for coffee enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Question
What Are the Best Espresso Machines on a Budget?
Two popular choices are the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker and the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine. The Mr. Coffee Espresso is an affordable and versatile machine that is perfect for those who want to make a variety of coffee drinks at home. It has a 15-bar pressure pump that delivers rich, flavorful espresso, and its milk frother allows you to make cappuccinos and lattes with ease. Another great budget-friendly option is the De’Longhi Stilosa. This compact and stylish machine is a semi-automatic type, and it allows you to customize your coffee with its manual milk frother.
Both machines are budget-friendly and well-regarded in the industry, they are also easy to use and efficient.
Which Is the Easiest Espresso Machine to Use?
One of the easiest espresso machines to use is the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Model BES870XL. This machine has a variety of features that make it user-friendly and easy to operate. One of the key features is the Control Grinding, which allows you to grind the exact amount of coffee beans needed for each shot and also has Optimal Water Pressure, which ensures that the water is at the correct pressure for the best flavor extraction.
Additionally, the Manual Microfoam Milk Texturing feature allows for easy and precise milk frothing and a grind size dial to adjust the grind size according to your preference. All of these features make the BES870XL, an easy-to-use option without the hassle of complicated brewing procedures.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, finding the best espresso machine under $200 can be a challenging task, but with the right research and understanding of the different factors to consider, it is definitely possible.
After much research and consideration, we have narrowed down the best options to three of our top picks: The Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker, the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso and De’Longhi ECP3420 Espresso Machine. All of these machines are budget-friendly, easy to use, and well-regarded in the industry. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
In our opinion. You should try espresso K-Cups in a single-serve coffee maker at least once in your life.
Nicholas’ coffee journey started at a very young age, as it has always been a part of his family. His parents operated five coffee shops throughout upstate New York during his childhood. Nicholas brings with him over 15 years of experience in the beverage industry, where he has held various sales and marketing roles at both domestic and international companies.
