Waking up to a rich espresso is the perfect way to start your morning. It’s even better if you don’t have to leave your house to get the coffee. If you’ve started looking for an espresso machine and are taken aback by the high prices, don’t fret. You can still find the best cheap espresso machine on a budget, so you can enjoy your favorite coffee without spending too much money.
At a Glance: Our Top 3 Espresso Machines
1. Nespresso Essenza Mini (Top Pick)
2. Yabano Espresso Machine (Budget Pick)
3. Nespresso Inissia (High End Pick)
Contents
The Best Budget Espresso Machines
As you look at some of the cheaper espresso machines, keep in mind that these are not professional devices, as those come at a much higher cost. The following products are for in-home use, either for one person or a few friends.
We’re going to look at our top picks first, then review some other high-quality and affordable machines.
Nespresso Essenza Mini
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is, in our opinion, the best automatic espresso machine on a budget. Thousands of other people agree with us as it has an impressive rating of 4.7.
This small, compact machine is easy to use and has a one-touch operation system. The water heats up in less than 30 seconds, and it automatically shuts off nine minutes after use. This feature saves you time and energy while providing an excellent espresso quickly. There are an abundance of Nespresso models that will fit any budget, but it’s the features that will determine the price you will pay.
There is a water holder in the back, and this single-serve espresso machine has two size settings: espresso and lungo. A bonus is the complimentary welcome gift, which includes capsules to try with your new device.
One potential downside is that this machine uses capsules, not freshly ground coffee. If you enjoy the packaged coffee, though, this shouldn’t be a problem. Another potential problem is that the machine does drip in off-mode occasionally.
Pros:
- Two options for cup size
- Energy-saving mode
- Comes with a complimentary welcome gift
Cons:
- Uses capsules
- May drip occasionally
Yabano Espresso Machine
If you’re looking for a quality machine at the lowest possible price, the Yabano Espresso Machine is the answer for you. This inexpensive device can make both espresso and cappuccino.
This machine is especially for beginner coffee makers with a straightforward design and compact size. It comes with a detachable funnel device, steam wand, and glass container to collect the coffee. While you can put your mug directly under the spout, this espresso machine can make up to four cups. The small glass pot works well if you’re making coffee for your family or friends.
Using this device is very simple, as you can adjust the settings with the knob and remove all the parts for deep cleaning.
Of course, most of the cheaper espresso machines will not be of professional quality. Since this one is for beginners, it makes sense that the chief complaint is that it does not make professional espressos. Also, instead of just turning the device off, you need to unplug the whole machine when finished to make sure it does not keep running.
Pros:
- Lowest price
- Making espresso
- Making cappuccino
- Serves four cups of coffee
Cons:
- Not a professional espresso machine
- Unplug when finished
Nespresso Inissia
The Nespresso Inissia is our most expensive option, but is still moderately priced in comparison to some of the luxury models.
The Inissia is very similar to the Essenza as it has a built-in water holder, one-touch operation, and two size options. It also comes with complimentary capsules, just like the Essenza.
What makes this machine different is that it comes with the Aeroccino 3 milk frother. While the Essenza is just an espresso machine, this bundle option can make cappuccinos and lattes.
Like other Nespresso products, the Inissia uses capsules, which can be disappointing if you prefer freshly-ground coffee. However, the packages do come in various flavors, giving you a chance to explore new coffee styles. Also, another issue is the design of the machine. It is not as easy to use as other options, especially when making a cappuccino or latte.
Pros:
- One-touch operation
- Complimentary welcome gift
- Aeroccino 3 milk frother
Cons:
- Uses capsules
- Not as easy to use as other options
Nespresso VertuoPlus
While our previous two Nespresso machines are from the De’Longhi company, this Vertuo option comes from Breville.
The Vertuo and VertuoPlus models use capsules like the other Nespresso options, but this one has unique capsule technology. When you put in the capsule and turn on the machine, it spins the package at about 7,000 rotations per minute. This feature combines the coffee and water at the perfect rate for better-tasting coffee. Each capsule also has a barcode that the machine reads, so you don’t have to change the settings each time you make coffee.
With one-touch technology, you can get your coffee quickly. Instead of just two cup sizes, the Vertuo has five options ranging from 1.35 to 14 ounces: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, coffee, and alto coffee.
Again, if you don’t enjoy capsules, this may not be the best machine for you. Many people also complained that it does not heat the water enough, giving them only warm coffee.
Pros:
- Five cup sizes
- Unique capsule technology
- One-touch operation
Cons:
- May not heat water enough
- Uses capsules
SOWTECH Espresso Machine
If you are looking for the best espresso machine on a budget that uses ground coffee, try the Yabano or this SOWTECH option. They are very similar in style and price.
The SOWTECH is slightly more expensive than the Yabano, but it is still rather inexpensive given the features available. It includes a detachable filter, funnel, carafe, and spoon. You can access the water tank by opening the cover on top of the machine. It is easy to use by adjusting the knob on the side.
Also, if you want to make a killer cappuccino one morning, the espresso machine has a milk frother on the side. If you enjoy bigger cups of coffee or entertaining friends and family, this machine is a good option because the carafe holds up to four cups of coffee.
Since this is a smaller espresso machine, the water tank is limited. You will have to refill it after only a couple of uses. One thing to note is that you could potentially have to deal with a burning smell, especially if you make a lot of coffee at once. For another popular espresso machine that is small in size, but big in taste review Nespresso’s CitiZ.
Pros:
- Carafe holds up to four cups of coffee
- Uses freshly ground coffee
- Milk frother included
Cons:
- Small water tank
- Could produce a burning smell
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino
Another excellent choice for a moderately priced espresso machine that uses fresh coffee is the Mr. Coffee device.
The front of the machine has a straightforward button system to control your coffee settings. There is also an automatic milk frother on the front for cappuccinos and lattes and an abundant water tank in the back.
Of the three primary espresso machines from Mr. Coffee, this one offers the most options. It includes a spoon, tamper, and filter, and you can create single or double espressos.
One disadvantage of this espresso machine is cleaning it. You do need to clean it more regularly than other devices, and the parts should not go in the dishwasher. Also, the design is not for heavy coffee drinkers, as it could wear out quickly.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Automatic milk frother
- Single or double espressos
Cons:
- Extra cleaning
- Not for heavy coffee drinkers
Klarstein Passionata Rosa 20
Our last inexpensive espresso machine comes from the German Klarstein company.
This small, capable machine has a filter, measuring spoon, and steaming nozzle for quality espressos and cappuccinos. It also comes in two models, the 15 and 20 bar machines, both of which are fairly inexpensive.
The design includes a large water holder, so you don’t have to refill it until you’ve made six cups of coffee. Also, it is easy to clean and use thanks to removable parts. One of the best things about this device is its practical and durable German engineering.
While it is simple to use, if you prefer more control over the temperature, this may disappoint you. It only has a knob and power button, which allows for a simple set up but not extra temperature control. Also, some of the parts are plastic, which many people do not like.
Pros:
- 15 or 20 bar models
- German engineering
- Large water container
Cons:
- No temperature controls
- Some plastic parts
Cozy’s Final Thoughts
If you want delicious coffee on a budget without spending a ridiculous amount of money, pick any of the above espresso machines. There are much more expensive options available, but you can get the same quality of drink with one of these cheaper options!
Make Killer Espressos at a Fraction of the Cost!
Pick which one works best for you, whether it’s one of the Nespresso machines or a more inclusive Yabano, and start enjoying an espresso in the comfort of your own home.