Best Espresso Machines of 2026
Cafe-quality espresso at home. We pulled thousands of shots to find the best espresso machines from beginner-friendly to prosumer.
Our Top Pick: Breville Barista Touch Impress
The Breville Barista Touch Impress makes it possible for anyone to pull cafe-quality espresso at home. Its assisted tamping system and intuitive touchscreen take the guesswork out of the process.
Why It's the Best
- Assisted tamping: The Impress Puck System applies the perfect 22 lbs of pressure every time
- Built-in grinder: 30 precise grind settings dial in any bean
- Touchscreen: Visual step-by-step guidance for every drink
- ThermoJet heating: Ready in 3 seconds—no warm-up wait
Best for Enthusiasts: Lelit Bianca V4
The Lelit Bianca V4 is for people who want full control. Its paddle-operated flow control and PID temperature management let you profile every shot. The dual boiler system means you can brew and steam simultaneously.
Best Budget: Bambino Plus
Breville's entry-level Bambino Plus punches well above its $349 price tag. You'll need a separate grinder, but the machine itself produces remarkably good espresso with its 54mm portafilter and pre-infusion system.
Shot Quality Comparison
We had a certified Q-grader evaluate 10 shots from each machine using the same beans:
| Machine | Avg Score | Heat-Up | Milk Steam | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barista Touch Impress | 8.4/10 | 3 sec | Excellent | $1,099 |
| Lelit Bianca V4 | 9.1/10 | 12 min | Exceptional | $2,799 |
| Bambino Plus | 7.8/10 | 3 sec | Good | $349 |
Getting Started with Home Espresso
- Invest in a good grinder: The grinder matters as much as the machine. Budget at least $200 for a burr grinder.
- Use fresh beans: Buy whole beans roasted within the last 2-4 weeks
- Filtered water: Water quality dramatically affects flavor
- Practice: Even the best machine has a learning curve. Give yourself a week to dial in your process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is home espresso cheaper than buying from a cafe?
It depends on how much you drink. If you average 1-2 espresso drinks per day, a mid-range setup pays for itself in about 6-8 months.
Do I need a separate grinder?
Our top pick has a built-in grinder that is quite good. If you are buying a machine without one (like the Bambino Plus), yes, you need a dedicated burr grinder for consistent results.
Written by
Hana Sjöberg
Hana Sjöberg is a lifestyle and home product reviewer who has tested everything from espresso machines to robot vacuums across 50+ countries. She brings a global perspective to her reviews, focusing on kitchen appliances, home goods, travel gear, and everyday essentials that make life better.
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