The Best Espresso Machines of 2025

Rating: 5

The Breville Barista Express Impress is a standout in the home espresso machine market, particularly appealing to those new to espresso making. This machine integrates a built-in conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh beans directly into the portafilter, ensuring optimal flavor with each shot. One of its most notable features is the assisted tamping system, which helps achieve consistent pressure, a critical factor in espresso extraction. The intuitive interface guides users through the process, reducing the learning curve typically associated with espresso machines. The Barista Express Impress also boasts precise temperature control, maintaining water at the optimal temperature for espresso extraction. Its steam wand is versatile, enabling the creation of microfoam necessary for latte art. The machine's design is both sleek and functional, with a compact footprint suitable for most kitchen counters. Maintenance is straightforward, with prompts indicating when cleaning is required, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. Overall, the Breville Barista Express Impress offers a harmonious blend of automation and manual control, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediate users aiming to craft café-quality espresso at home.

— Olivia Smith

Rating: 5

The Gaggia Classic Pro is a revered model among espresso enthusiasts, known for its durability and commercial-grade components. Its stainless steel housing exudes a professional aesthetic, while the updated design reduces noise during operation. The machine features a commercial steam wand, providing full control for creating velvety milk froth, essential for cappuccinos and lattes. The 58mm chrome-plated brass portafilter ensures even heat distribution, contributing to consistent shot quality. Users appreciate the straightforward rocker switch controls, which, while lacking digital interfaces, offer reliability and ease of use. The Gaggia Classic Pro requires a degree of skill and understanding of espresso-making fundamentals, making it more suitable for those willing to invest time in mastering the craft. Regular maintenance, such as backflushing and descaling, is necessary to keep the machine in optimal condition. With proper care, the Gaggia Classic Pro proves to be a long-lasting investment, delivering exceptional espresso and milk-based beverages that rival those from commercial establishments.

— Michael Johnson

Rating: 5

The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its compact size without compromising on performance. Ideal for those with limited counter space, this machine heats up remarkably fast, reaching the optimal extraction temperature in approximately three seconds, thanks to its ThermoJet heating system. The automatic steam wand is a highlight, allowing users to select desired milk temperature and texture, producing consistent microfoam suitable for latte art. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks but may lack advanced frothing skills. The Bambino Plus employs precise espresso extraction, utilizing digital temperature control (PID) to ensure water is delivered at the right temperature for optimal espresso flavor. Its user-friendly interface comprises simple buttons for single and double shots, as well as steam and hot water functions. Cleaning and maintenance are hassle-free, with a removable drip tray and an alert system indicating when it's time for descaling. While it lacks a built-in grinder, pairing the Bambino Plus with a quality burr grinder results in an excellent home setup for espresso lovers seeking efficiency and quality in a compact form.

— Sophia Brown

Rating: 4.9

The De'Longhi La Specialista Arte is designed for coffee aficionados seeking a balance between automation and hands-on brewing. This machine features a built-in grinder with eight precise settings, accommodating various bean types and roast levels. The single-wall filter baskets encourage users to refine their tamping and extraction skills, offering a more authentic barista experience. Temperature control is a standout aspect, with three active infusion water temperature levels to match different coffee varieties, ensuring optimal flavor extraction. The steam wand, designed for manual milk texturing, allows users to craft creamy froth for specialty drinks. Its compact footprint makes it suitable for kitchens with limited space, and the sleek design adds a modern touch to any countertop. The La Specialista Arte requires some practice to master, especially for those new to espresso making, but the learning process is rewarding, resulting in café-quality beverages tailored to personal taste preferences. Regular cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, aided by accessible components and clear instructions. Overall, this machine offers a harmonious blend of control and convenience, appealing to both budding and seasoned home baristas.

— Sophia Brown

Rating: 4.8

The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine has long been celebrated for its robust construction and professional-grade performance. Encased in a durable iron frame and stainless steel side panels, the Silvia is built to withstand extensive use, making it a reliable choice for serious espresso enthusiasts. The commercial-style 58mm portafilter and ergonomic handle ensure even extraction and comfort during use. One of its defining features is the articulating stainless steel steam wand, which offers a full range of motion and precise control for milk steaming, essential for creating rich microfoam. The single boiler design, while limiting simultaneous brewing and steaming, provides excellent temperature stability, a critical factor in achieving consistent espresso quality. Users should be prepared for a learning curve, as the Silvia lacks automated features found in other consumer machines. Mastery of dosing, tamping, and shot timing is essential to unlock its full potential. Regular maintenance, including descaling and group head cleaning, is necessary to maintain optimal performance. For those willing to invest the time and effort, the Rancilio Silvia rewards with exceptional espresso and a deepened appreciation for the craft of coffee making.

— Ava Martinez