Top 10 Best Espresso Machine Under $300 for 2022

It is no surprise that coffee is one of the most famous beverages of all time. An adult can consume an average of 3 cups of coffee in a day. For this reason, espresso machines have been providing the needs of many to satisfy their coffee cravings.

Among all the espresso machines in the market today, we have rounded up the top ten which are also under $300. Plus, we also included our reviews and feedback for each of them.

Best Espresso Machine Under $300 Comparison Chart

1. DeLonghi Lattissima Plus Espresso Machine

The first on the list is the DeLonghi Lattissima Plus Espresso Machine. DeLonghi has been known to create products with excellent features and functions. The Lattissima Plus Espresso Machine is one of its creations that offer convenience, elegance, and great espresso in every use.

It showcases a compact and sturdy design that allows you to store it on your countertop without any problems. It also offers notable features like the built-in milk frother, an easy coffee capsule system, a water tank, and a drip tray.

Overview

• Built-in milk steamer and frothe
• Removable water container
• Illuminated control panels
• Adjustable automatic off timer
• 3 milk setting and 2 coffee settings
• Thermoblock heating system
• Removable drip tray

Product Highlights:

The interesting highlight for this product is its built-in hot milk container system. With a simple push of a button, you can add frothed and steamed milk to you espresso drink. It also has three settings for its steamed milk that can be selected with just a button touch

What We Like:

What we like about this Lattissima Plus Espresso Machine is that the hot milk system which does the steaming and frothing can be removed for easy storage in the fridge or for clean up. It also has a Thermoblock heating system that allows rapid heating time.

What We Don’t Like:

Since it is fully automated, there is no chance for skills exploration for coffee brewing.

2. Breville Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Machine with Aeroccino Milk Frother

The next product we have is the Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Machine by Breville. Breville is also one of the known creators of outstanding coffee machines. This specific product comes with a built-in Aerocinno milk frother.

The CitiZ Espresso Machine is created with a very elegant and stylish design. In addition to that, it also offers remarkable features like coffee capsule system for easy usage. It also has a very fast heating system which only takes 30 seconds. A foldable drip tray is also present for large cup or containers.

Overview

• Has 19 extraction bar system
• Energy-saving automatic stand-by mode
• 1-liter removable water tank
• 30-second heat uptime
• Built-in Aerocinno milk frother
• Foldable drip tray
• Programmable automatic flows top buttons

Product Highlights:

A notable feature of this product is that it has an integrated Aerocinno milk frother. This actually makes it easy for you to creates delicious lattes in no time. In addition, the drip tray is foldable so it can easily accommodate large cup or containers.

What We Like:

We like that the CitiZ Espresso Machine has a very sleek and attractive design. Plus, it is very easy to use with its coffee capsule system. You can just pop a capsule in and push a button to produce any coffee drink you like.

What We Don’t Like:

However, we don’t like that Breville focused more on aesthetic for the CitiZ Espresso Machine and not on the additional features that it could have.

3. Breville Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with Aeroccino Milk Frother

Another remarkable machine created by Breville is the Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine. This machine also comes with a integrated Aerocinno milk frother just which makes it a very effecient machine.

This machine is designed to operate on using a smart extraction system that can read the capsule’s barcode and it also uses the Centrifusing Brewing Technology to produce extra creamy cups of coffee.

Overview

• 1.2 liters removable water tank capacity
• 15 to 20-second heat up timeCentrifusion Brewing Technology
• Uses coffee capsule system
• Can accommodate 5 different sizes of coffee cups
• Energy-saving automatic shut off at 9 minutes of inactivity
• Has an Intelligent extraction system that read barcodes around the coffee capsule

Product Highlights:

The Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine uses the remarkable Centrifusion Technology during the process of brewing. During this process, the pod spins rapidly while water which results to a think and rich drink. In addition, the intelligent extraction system reads the barcodes around the capsule to determine the exact amount of water needed for it.

What We Like:

The thing that makes this machine stand out is the Centrifusion Technology it uses to produce a creamy cup of coffee. Plus, the smart extraction system using the barcode reading capability.

What We Don’t Like:

We are particularly not fond of the fact that this machine is not versitle enough to use different capsules.

4. Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine

A refreshing break from all the super automatic espresso machines, the next on our list is the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine. This machine is elegantly designed and is a definitely sight to behold.It is also not short of outstanding features such as a steam milk frothing nozzle and its very own hot plate that serves as a cup warmer. It also has large water tank that is perfect for numerous cups of coffee if needed.

Overview

• Stylish design featuring brushed stainless steel surfaces and high-quality plastic
• Removable drip tray with stainless steel mesh
• Steam milk frothing nozzle
• Built-in hot plate as a cup warmer
• Large water tank

Product Highlights:

The highlight that the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine has to offer is its steam noozle for easy and convenient milk frothing. Furthermore, it is also equipped with a hot plate warmer from finished drinks that is on its top lid.

What We Like:

What we like about the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is that its constructed with a combination of stainless steel and high quality plastic. Plus, it has many notable features like the steam milk frother nozzle and the built-in hot plate.

What We Don’t Like:

This machine would have been more effecient if it has a stronger pump.

5. Francis Francis for Illy iperEspresso Espresso Machine

This machine is a collaboration of Illy with Francis Francis. It elegantly showcases a very modern and futuristic style. This design is perfect for people with modern taste when it comes to their kitchen appliances.In addition to that, it also has an integrated Pannareo Steam nozzle for easy milk frothing. It also uses the Illy iperEspresso coffee capsule technology. It also has a programmable volume per brew that you can take advantage of.

Overview

• Stylish and futuristic design
• Equipped with modern and soft touch control panel buttons
• Features a Pannarello Steam Arm for frothing milk
• Power saving mode
• Uses illy iperespresso coffee capsule advanced technology
• Automatic stop feature
• Programmable volume per brew

Product Highlights:

The Francis Francis by Illy iperEspresso Machine features a remarkable Pannarello Steam Arm for easy and convenient milk frothing. It is also equipped with control panels that are easy to control and understand.

What We Like:

What we like most about the Francis Francis by Illy iperEspresso Machine is its modern and futuristic design. Aside from that, it also has an integrated Pannarello Steam Arm for frothing milk.

What We Don’t Like:

The design is attractive, but the materials used could have been better.

6. EspressoWorks All-In-One Espresso Machine Barista Bundle Set

Next on our list is the all-in-one set by EspressoWorks. This bundle set is definitely a must-have if you want the whole package from the get-go. This set already has its own electric coffee grinder. Plus, it also has a built-in steam arm for milk frothing.It also doesn’t come last considering the stylish, stainless steel finish. Aside from all that, it also a heat up time of under 1 minute and a 15 bar pump. It is definitely a set that will take anyone to the next level when it comes to coffee making.

Overview

• Stainless steel finish
• Has a 15 Bar Pump
• Equipped with an electric coffee grinder
• Portafilter with single and double shot basket
• Includes a built-in stainless steel frothing arm
• Includes a measuring spoon and tamper
• Auto-off feature after 25 minutes of non-use
• Front-view water tank
• Includes 2 high-quality espresso cups
• Has a removable drip tray

Product Highlights:

For this coffee machine, the main highlight will actually be the bundle set itself. This machine is an all-in-one machine. It basically includes everything you will need to make high-quality and delicious coffee from its electric coffee grinder, built-in steam frother, and more.

What We Like:

We like the fact that the construction of this machine is mostly stainless steel. This goes to show how durable this will be. In addition, we also like that it already includes everything that you need.

What We Don’t Like:

Although this machine comes with its own electric coffee grinder, it actually uses blades to grind the coffee instead of burrs.

7. Flair Signature Espresso Maker

This next product is created specifically for people who enjoy the process of creating and brewing coffee. The Flair Signature Espresso Maker is a manual coffee press that allows the user to indulge themselves into handcrafting their own espresso drink.

Compared to the other products, the Flair Signature Espresso Maker may lack several modern features, but it is one equipment made to produce great coffee drinks.

Overview

• Cylinder water container with 60 ml capacity
• 6 to 10 bar lever pressureShot extraction time of 45 seconds or less
• Made from stainless steel and aluminum
• Easy to clean mini portafilter
• Includes a 5-year warranty on its aluminum stand and the stainless steel head.

Product Highlights:

The highlight of the Flair Signature Espresso Maker is that it allows the user to enjoy the experience of handcrafting their very own espresso drink.

What We Like:

The aluminum press stand and its stainless steel head is elegantly designed to be portable and very esy to use.

What We Don’t Like:

As a given, since this is a manual tool, it lacks several modern features and will require more effort.

8. ROK Espresso GC

Another manual espresso maker that made our list is the ROK EspressoGC. This is actually the upgraded version of their previous espresso maker. This new version comes with an upgraded parts like its piston gasket and improved insulation of its pressure chamber.

It is designed with an attractive polished metal finish and features a sturdy base for excellent stability. This is one equipment that offers easy operation, durability, and delicious espresso drinks for every use.

Overview

• Weighs 3.5 pounds
• Highly portable
• Requires no electricity
• Pressure chamber made from BPA-free glass composite for enhanced insulation
• Elegant polished metal finish
• Equipped with a single shot portafilter
• Equipped with four rubber legs on the bottom
• Includes a 10-year warranty for the metal parts

Product Highlights:

A highlight of this product is the new upgraded parts that will surely result to a better process of making coffee. Its has upgraded piston gaskets as well as improved pressure chambers.

What We Like:

We particular like that this is an improvement to the previous model that ROK created. This means that the company is aiming to create a product that will statisfy and meet their customers’ needs.

What We Don’t Like:

9. Breville Inissia Espresso Machine

We have another product from Breville which is the Inissia Espresso Machine. This product is designed to have a very small footprint that can suit any interior. It has a remarkable heat up time of 25 seconds and can produce quality drinks with the Nespresso Capsule System.

Overview

• Compact and lightweight design
• Comes with an ergonomic handle
• Heat up time of 25 seconds
• 19 bar pressure extraction
• One-touch operation
• Automatic energy-saving mode after 9 minutes of non-use
• Uses Nespresso Capsule system includes a 1-year warranty

Product Highlights:

This machine has a one-touch easy operation that offers the utmost convenience for its users. In addition, it has a remarkably compact and lightweight design and can fit to any type of interior.

What We Like:

What we like with this machine is that is it definitely easy and convenient to use. With just a simple touch, you will have a good quality espresso drink.

What We Don’t Like:

What we didn’t like about it on the other hand, is that it tends to be quite noisy while brewing.

10. Mueller Espresso Machine

Lastly, we have the Mueller Espresso Machine. This machine is equipped with a notable high pressure pump capability of 20 bars. This results to a barist-style drink that has lots of flavor and crema.

Overview

• High pressure pump capability of 20 bars
• Heat up time of 25 seconds
• Two-cup capacity
• One-touch button operation
• Detachable large water tank
• Compact design with small footprint
• Dishwasher safe
• Includes a 2-year warranty

Product Highlights:

This product showcases a high pressure pump. This quality is often found in premium machines which creates high-quality coffee drinks.

What We Like:

We like that this machine produces coffee drinks that are so close to what is produced using premium machines because of its high pressure pump capability.

What We Don’t Like:

On the other hand, we particularly did not like how it was not pucturing the capsules properly.

What To Look For When Buying An Espresso Machine

With a wide variety of espresso machines that is currently available in the market at present, the task of finding the best one can be a daunting task. Many may not know of the specifics and what factors to look for. With that said, these are some of the essential factors that you need to look into when buying an espresso machine.

1. Type of Espresso Machine

One factor that you really need to check and look into is what type of espresso machine the product is. Many may think that there is only one kind but that is not always true. Contrary to that belief, there are actually four types of espresso machines.

• ManualAs the name suggests, manual espresso machine will require much effort to be operated. Unlike the advanced machines, this type needs to be physically handled and thus is can be a little tiring to use. To use it, water has to be poured in manually which has a significant effect on the brew’s quality. It is also a bit more complicated than the other types.
• Semi-AutomaticThe semi-automatic type of espresso machine is actually one of the most preferred by many. This type removes the hassle of pouring water manually. It is also equipped with automated controls for boiler temperature. Additionally, it typically has an integrated electric pump which makes operating easier.
• Fully-AutomaticFully-automated espresso machines actually carry and offer the same advantageous features that is found in semi-automatic espresso machines. However, this type goes a litte further and has the function of regulating how much water passes through the machine.
• Super AutomaticNow, the super automatic ones can be described as the type with the most sophisticated system. With all the functions that you can find with the semi and fully automatic types, it also features a built-in coffee grinder. This means that it will require regular cleaning and maintenance. In addition, it also has integrated timers, whistles, and bells.

Familiarizing yourself with this information will help you assess what features you want your espresso machine to have. This, in a way will help narrow it down to the one the fits you perfectly.

2. Weight and Size

While espresso machine nowadays are compact, it is still a fact that they will take up space on your kitchen counter. This is why it is important that you look into the weight and size of the espresso machine you want to buy.

A machine that is too big will eventually eat up space that can be used for other kitchen appliances. Subsequently, the weight of the machine is also of utmost importance. Choosing a heavy machine will make it hard for you to move it around in case of rearranging your appliances. At the same time, heavy machine will be more complicated to clean.

3. Durability

Like any other kitchen appliance, durability plays an essential role to ensure that you will be able to use it for a very long time. All the more for espresso machines as it is required to operate and handle liquids of very high temperatures.Constant exposure to liquids as well as high temperatures would ruin a poorly constructed machine. In addition, since it will be used a few times a day, the material used for it must be durable enough to withstand all these.

4. Maintenance and Cleaning

At present, almost everyone is always on-the-go. When it comes to the appliances it is also better to have something that is easy to maintain and clean. There are espresso machines that seem to have everything you want and need but will be a nightmare when it comes to maintenance and cleaning.Other espresso machines will surprise you as it will a hundred small pieces that you need to take apart, clean, and put back together once you are done. For anyone, this is a very long and excruciating task. Unless you want to go through with this routine, choose a machine that is easy to clean and maintain.

5. Features and Functions

You must not also overlook the features and functions that a machine offers. Look for a machine that will cater to your wants and needs. There are espresso machines that already have a built-in grinder. In this way, you will no longer have to buy it separately.Others also have an integrated milk frothing feature as well as a cup warmer. Additional features such as water container, drip tray, easy-touch controls, and timers can also be some of the features an espresso machine is equipped with.

FAQs:

Are manual coffee grinders better than electric?

This question is best answered if you know what are the pros and cons when using a manual coffee grinder and an electric one. In this way, you will be able to determine which one best fits your needs.For the manual coffee grinder, this machine typically more affordable as it has a very straightforward structure. The way it operates is also very simple and easy compared to an electric coffee grinder. It is also portable, but will require manual effort for every use.On the other hand, electric coffee grinder are more costly and generally operates on a more complex manner. Since it is electrically powered, it offers convenience to the user that is absent in a manual coffee grinder.

Is burr grinder better?

As for grinding coffee beans, there are two available options being used. There are grinders that have blades, and those that have burr plates, or simply referred to as burrs. These burrs are sometimes flat or cone-shaped. One burr spins around, while the other remains stationary.Coffee grinders that use blades do not actually grind the coffee beans. Instead of grinding them, blades actually chop them, resulting to uneven and inconsistent size. This is not the best consistency that anyone want when making coffee.Meanwhile, burr grinders do what they are designed to do which is grind coffee beans to consistent size. With that said, it is definitely better to invest on coffee grinders that uses burr instead of blades.

Which is better? Coffee capsules or Coffee beans?

Although there has been a long debate between coffee capsules vs coffee beans, and which actually produces better quality, much of it is actually based on the lack of knowledge on how coffee capsules work. Coffee capsules were created for convenience purposes in case you want a delicious cup of coffee without the hassle of making freshly roasted coffee grounds. In actuality, coffee capsules are made to preserve the freshness of roasted coffee in a pressure-sealed pod that is ready to be used any time. In short, the quality of the cup of coffee cannot be defined solely based on the use of coffee beans or coffee capsules. Good quality coffee capsules can produce good quality coffee as do freshly roasted coffee grounds.