Best Espresso Machines 2026 — From Beginner to Barista
Looking for the best espresso machine? We've compared the top 5 models from beginner-friendly super-automatics to professional-grade manual machines. Whether you're pulling your first shot or perfecting your latte art, there's a winner for every budget and skill level.
Snel antwoord
- Best Overall: Breville Barista Express Impress — assisted tamping, built-in grinder Bekijk prijs →
- Best Super-Automatic: De'Longhi Magnifica Evo — one-touch drinks, under $600 Bekijk prijs →
- Best for Purists: Gaggia Classic Evo Pro — true 9-bar pressure, barista-grade Bekijk prijs →
- Best Compact: Breville Bambino Plus — 3-second heat-up, auto milk foam Bekijk prijs →
- Best Budget: De'Longhi Stilosa — under $150, manual espresso Bekijk prijs →
Vergelijkingstabel
Hieronder zie je alle producten naast elkaar:
Onze top 5 in detail
Hieronder bespreken we elk product uitgebreid.
Breville Barista Express Impress
Beste KeuzeThe best choice for aspiring home baristas. The assisted tamping takes the guesswork out of puck preparation, while the built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds every time. Perfect for those who want café-quality espresso without years of practice.
Voordelen
- Assisted tamping system for consistent pressure
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet heating
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
Nadelen
- Learning curve for dialing in grind size
- Louder than super-automatic machines
- Premium price point
De'Longhi Magnifica Evo
The best super-automatic for convenience seekers. From espresso to iced coffee, everything is one button away. The LatteCrema system makes café-quality milk foam effortless, making this ideal for families with different coffee preferences.
Voordelen
- 7 one-touch recipes including cold brew
- LatteCrema hot & cold milk system
- My Menu function for personalized drinks
- Compact design fits small kitchens
Nadelen
- Plastic components feel less premium
- Water filter needs replacing every 2 months
- Grinder can be loud during operation
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro
The purist's choice. This machine has been perfecting espresso for decades, with a design that prioritizes quality over convenience. If you want to learn the craft of espresso and don't mind the manual process, the Classic Evo Pro delivers barista-level results.
Voordelen
- Professional-grade 9-bar pressure pump
- Stainless steel portafilter and brew group
- Highly upgradeable and repairable
- Cult following with extensive community support
Nadelen
- Requires separate grinder purchase
- Steeper learning curve than automatics
- Longer heat-up time (5-10 minutes)
Breville Bambino Plus
The best compact espresso machine for tight spaces. Don't let the small size fool you — the Bambino Plus produces excellent espresso and silky microfoam. Perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone who values counter space.
Voordelen
- Incredibly compact (7.6 inches wide)
- 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Affordable entry into Breville ecosystem
Nadelen
- Small water tank requires frequent refills
- No built-in grinder
- 54mm portafilter limits accessory options
De'Longhi Stilosa
The best budget entry into home espresso. At under $150, the Stilosa makes decent espresso accessible to everyone. It won't compete with machines 3x its price, but it's perfect for learning the basics without breaking the bank.
Voordelen
- Unbeatable price for manual espresso
- 15-bar pressure pump
- Manual frother for cappuccinos
- Dual-wall filter baskets for beginners
Nadelen
- Mostly plastic construction
- No PID temperature control
- Requires practice to pull consistent shots
Which Espresso Machine Is Right for You?
You want the best overall experience
Breville Barista Express Impress combines convenience with quality. The assisted tamping means consistent shots every time, and the built-in grinder ensures freshness. Perfect for those who want café-quality results without a steep learning curve.
You want convenience above all
De'Longhi Magnifica Evo does everything at the push of a button. From espresso to iced lattes, it's all automated. Ideal for busy households where everyone drinks something different.
You want to master the craft
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is the enthusiast's machine. It demands skill and patience, but rewards you with professional-grade espresso. Join a passionate community of modders and perfectionists.
You have limited counter space
Breville Bambino Plus packs impressive performance into a tiny footprint. The 3-second heat-up and automatic milk texturing make it incredibly convenient despite its manual nature.
You're on a tight budget
De'Longhi Stilosa proves you don't need $500+ to make espresso at home. It's basic, requires practice, and isn't built to last decades — but at $149, it's an affordable entry point.
Veelgestelde vragen
How much should I spend on an espresso machine?
A decent manual machine starts around $150 (De'Longhi Stilosa), but for consistent quality, budget $400-$700. The Breville Barista Express Impress at $699 offers the best balance of features and quality for most home users.
Do I need a separate grinder?
For manual and semi-automatic machines without built-in grinders (like the Gaggia Classic or Bambino Plus), yes — a good grinder is essential. Budget $100-$200 for an entry-level burr grinder. Super-automatics like the Magnifica Evo have grinders built-in.
What's the difference between 9-bar and 15-bar pressure?
True espresso extraction happens at 9 bars. Machines advertising 15-bar pumps still extract at 9 bars — the higher number is just the pump's maximum capacity. Focus on other features like build quality and temperature consistency instead.
How often should I descale my espresso machine?
Every 2-3 months for regular use, or when your machine prompts you. Hard water areas may need more frequent descaling. Using filtered water extends the interval and protects your machine's boiler from mineral buildup.
Affiliate disclaimer: Dit artikel bevat affiliate links naar bol.com. Als je via deze links een product koopt, ontvangen wij een kleine commissie. Dit heeft geen invloed op onze beoordeling en kost jou niets extra. Wij selecteren producten onafhankelijk op basis van kwaliteit en prijs-kwaliteitverhouding.