To some individuals, coffee, espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos are all the same thing. However, to the everyday coffee drinker, these drinks are completely different and have something different to offer.
While the processes of creating the drinks might be similar, there is nothing similar when it comes to the taste. This is why espresso enthusiasts know that choosing the right machine can make all the difference in the world. Of course, it is nice to have an espresso machine right in your own kitchen, so you can create your favorite drinks anytime you want, but unfortunately, these machines are quite expensive.
That being said, in today’s world you don’t really have to break the bank to find the best espresso machine under 500. However, before you invest in a machine, you need to understand the different types that are available and how they can benefit you.
Best Espresso Machine Under $500: Comparison table
Last update on 2023-06-04 at 13:41 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Types of Espresso Machine
The Manual Espresso Machine
The oldest style of espresso machines available on the market has got to be the manual espresso machines. Sometimes the machines are referred to a piston machine cause they utilize a hand pump piston type device to pass the water through the beans of the coffee. While they are old-fashioned, they can provide an elegant look to any modern kitchen. Most people tend to avoid these machines because they are the hardest to use. However, if you learn to master them you can really customize your coffee drinking experience. The machine is so hard to use because they give the operator complete control over the extraction process.
Along with this, the grind of the coffee beans can plan a major role in the overall taste of the coffee. So, it really takes a truly experienced hand to create a beautiful tasting espresso with this type of machine.
Automatic And Semi-Automatic Machines
It should not come as a surprise that the technology in the automatic and semi-automatic machines have really taken most of the guesswork out of the extraction process. These machines utilize an electric pump instead of a manual handle pump. In fact, with these machines most of the time the user just has to insert the beans, water, and press a single button. In addition to this, these machines usually include larger reservoirs and boilers, so you can truly create a variety of drinks in a more effective manner.
That being said, the semi-automatic machines operate in a similar manner, but they are still somewhat different. Instead of just pressing a button and letting the machine control the extraction process, the user actually has to start and stop the process by pressing a button. So, the user will still have to judge and control the extraction process, but he or she will do it by pressing a button, instead of pumping a handle.
Super Automatic Machines
As technology has advanced so has the creation of espresso machines. And, this is where the super automatic espresso machine was born. These machines have really taken the espresso game to the next level with a wide range of features and functions. These machines usually come equipped with a self-contained grinder. With a single button, users can grind a measured amount of coffee beans, ground the coffee through the filter, brew the espresso, and have the discard dump right into a self-contained waste chamber. Some of the machines will even go as far as to tell you when the waste chamber needs to be empty.
Along with this, the cleaning and maintenance processes of these machines have even been simplified, so that the novice coffee drinker could accomplish them with ease. Some models might even come equipped with self-cleaning features. Of course, if you are looking for the best home espresso machine under 500 it will be hard to find one of these models in that price range.
Searching for the best home espresso machine under 500 is never an easy task. That is why you will find some of the best models available below.
1. Nespresso A+GCC1-US-BK-NE Deluxe Espresso Maker
If you want to really change the way that you are drinking espressos, you have to consider investing in the Nespresso A+GCC1-US-BK-NE Deluxe Espresso Maker. Nespresso is a company that is always evolving and changing the coffee world and you can see that they have accomplished just that with their latest creation.
- Includes Aeroccino Plus milk frother: rapid one touch preparation of hot or cold milk froth; Items sold separately valued at $348
- New revolutionary Centrifusion technology to gently brew both Coffee and Espresso with one touch of a button
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Centrifusion Extraction Technology
If there is one thing that sets this machine apart from the others it has got to be the centrifusion extraction technology. The Nespresso Company patented the technology and it really perfectly blends the water and coffee, so that you receive a barista-quality espresso every time you want one. All you have to do is insert a coffee capsule in the machine, close the lever, and active the machine. Upon doing this the capsule will then be spun at 7,000 RPMs, which blends the coffee and water at the perfect extraction level to create the quality tasting drink that you desire.
Simple To Use
When it comes to simplicity, you will not find anything better than the Nespresso A+GCC1-US-BK-NE Deluxe Espresso Maker. You can easily create exceptionally brewed espresso with the simple touch of a button. All the guesswork is taken right out of the equation, as all you have to do is open the level, insert a coffee capsule, close the lever, press a button, and let the machine do the work for you. Within 15 to 20 seconds of preheating time and choose the size of the drink you want, you will be sipping on a quality beverage that you could not buy in a coffee house if you wanted to.
Overall Assessment
Nespresso has really revolutionized the coffee world with their simplistic capsule design. There is no more guesswork in creating the perfectly blended espresso.
Pros
- One button operation
- Capsule system makes the brewing process easier
- Centrifusion extraction technology perfectly blends the coffee and water
- Includes 12 capsules to get you started
Cons
- Might not get the temperature to the level that you are used to
2. DeLonghi ESAM3300 Super-Automatic Espresso Machine
The DeLonghi ESAM3300 is a unique and innovative top of the line super-automatic espresso machine. It truly comes packed with tons of features that any coffee drinker could take advantage of. When you combine this with its attractive design, you are truly looking at one great all around machine. First off, the machine utilizes a patented technology that mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth that you couldn’t even get from the coffee shop down the road.
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- FRESH ESPRESSO FOR EVERY CUP: The professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber. Your choice of regular, specialty or decaf.
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Easy Cleaning Operation
Cleaning your espresso machine is going to be a task that you are going to have to tackle from time to time if you want the machine to last. Most of the time this process can be a headache and take a better part of the day. This is especially true when you are doing it for the first time. Fortunately, the DeLonghi ESAM3300 Super-Automatic Espresso Machine has made the process easier than ever. In fact, it will only take you half the time to clean this machine thanks to the “direct-to-brew” system. And, the machine doesn’t even require a chemical cleaning like most traditional machines on the market.
Overall Assessment
When it comes to state of the art espresso machines, you can easily see that it will not find anything on the market more qualified than the DeLonghi ESAM3300 Super-Automatic Espresso Machine.
Pros
- Very attractive design
- Extremely easy to clean
- Customer support always available and standing by
- Grinds beans instantly
- Programmable menu
Cons
- Might have to use beans with less oil during for better grinding
3. Gaggia Classic Semi-Automatic Espresso Maker
If you are looking for an attractive and versatile espresso machine that is packed with the features of the most expensive models on the model look no further than the Gaggia Classic Semi-Automatic Espresso Maker. This semi-automatic model not only creates the perfect froth for your coffee beverages, but it has a wand that doubles as a hot water dispenser, which allows you to easily create Americanos and tea beverages. When you combine this with the fact that the machine can also create cappuccinos and lattes, you are really looking at one versatile machine.
- Rugged brushed stainless steel housing
- Commercial three-way solenoid valve
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Removable Reservoir
Whether you are making tea, coffee, or espressos, you probably find yourself constantly adding water to your machine. Well, the Gaggia Classic Semi-Automatic Espresso Maker not only comes equipped with a 72-ounce reservoir, but the reservoir is removable. This means that you not only have to insert water less often but when you do have to insert water, the process is easier than ever. Just simply remove the reservoir, fill it with water, and reinsert it.
Overall Assessment
With the attractive design and all the features included the Gaggia Classic Semi-Automatic Espresso Maker is a must-have for any espresso drinker.
Pros
- Large, removable 72-ounce water reservoir
- Includes a wand that can also dispense hot water
- Creates a true variety of drinks
- Expertly froths milk
- Includes all the accessories you need to get started
- One-year hassle free warranty
Cons
- Take about 5 to 7 minutes to create six shots
4. Breville BES840XL/A Espresso Machine
With an extraction process that cannot be matched by anything on the market, the Breville BES840XL/A Espresso Machine really stands out amongst the competition. The 1600-watt thermal coil heating system and stainless steel water coil control the water temperature perfectly, so the users don’t have to do anything, but choose whether they want a double or single shot. This machine was designed to do all the hard work of creating the perfect espresso for you and that is exactly what it does.
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- The Breville Infuser delivers optimal flavor in every cup creating third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula, ensuring the right dose of beans, optimal water pressure, precise temperature control and microfoam milk for latte art
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Includes Tons Of Accessories
It takes much more than coffee beans and a coffee machine to create the perfect espresso. No one wants to spend $500 on a machine and then discover that they have to spend another $200 on accessories. And, that is why the Breville BES840XL/A Espresso Machine pretty much includes everything you need. When you buy the machine you get single and dual-wall filter baskets, a coffee scoop, a stainless steel jig, a cleaning disc, and a water filter equipped with a handy holder.
Overall Assessment
It is easy to see the technology and features that make the Breville BES840XL/A Espresso Machine stand out amongst the competition.
Pros
- Includes every accessory you could possibly need to get started
- Applies low water pressure and builds to create the perfect extraction
- Stainless steel water coil controls temperature levels for you
- Auto purge function automatically adjusts temperatures
- Powerful 1700 watts
Cons
- Requires 220 or 240 volts AC
5. Breville DUO Temp Pro Espresso Machine
Finding the perfect espresso machine is never an easy task. Well, that was until you discovered the Breville DUO Temp Pro Espresso Machine. This 15 bar Italian-made machine starts off with low pressure and gradually increases as it goes to brings coffee drinkers the best quality cup of Joe that they will ever experience in their lifetime.
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
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Extract One Or Two Espressos At A Time
Plan on hosting a party or maybe you are just an avid espresso drinker. Whatever the situation is the Breville DUO Temp Pro Espresso Machine will be up for the task at hand. With its ability to extract either one or two espressos at a time, you will be able to create plenty of drinks effectively. When you combine this with the ability that you can actually control the volume of each espresso shot, you are truly looking at one remarkable machine.
Overall Assessment
This sleek little compact espresso machine comes packed with some tons of features that would make it a great addition to any espresso drinker’s kitchen. And, this is not to even mention that these are features that are usually only found on the most expensive models on the market. Create one or two shots at a time or control the volume of each shot to truly customize your espresso drinking experience in any manner you want.
Pros
- Control the volume of each of your espresso shots
- Brew either one or two espressos at a time
- Unique 15 bar pump starts off slow and gradually builds for a perfect extraction
- Includes several much-needed accessories
- Very sleek design
Cons
- Only designed to make espresso