Are you looking for a quick answer? We have chosen the Breville Barista Pro as the best espresso machine under $1000.
Whether you are looking for your first espresso machine or are looking to upgrade your current one, you will find many options with a $1000 budget. Espresso machines in this price range start to offer more advanced features that let you easily make not only espresso but a variety of coffee drinks. But, you can also find some manual and semi-automatic espresso machines that just focus on delivering amazon espresso.
With so many available options, should you get a super automatic machine like the Anima Prestige or a classic manual machine like La Pavoni Europiccola? Finding the right espresso machine can be overwhelming so we are here to help. We have put together a list with our 10 favorite espresso machines under $1000. We have also included a buying guide to help you walk through the factors you should consider when choosing an espresso machine under $1000.
We will get into more detail and explain why we recommend each of the machines. But if you are in a hurry, these are our top 3 picks.
Our top 3 picks
Best overall: Breville Barista Pro
Runner up: Rancilio Silvia
Best super-automatic: Philips 4300
The 10 Best Espresso Machines under $1000
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Semi-automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Single boiler Display: Switches PID: No | ||
 | Automatic Grinder: 16 settings Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermocoil Display: Buttons PID: Yes | ||
 | Super-automatic Grinder: 13 settings Milk frothing: Automatic Heating system: Thermoblock Display: Buttons PID: No Pre-programmed drinks: 7 | ||
BEST super automatic  | Super-automatic Grinder: 12 settings Milk frothing: Automatic Heating system: Thermoblock Display: Buttons PID: No Pre-programmed drinks: 9 | ||
 | Super-automatic Grinder: 5 settings Milk frothing: Automatic Heating system: Single boiler Display: LCD and Buttons PID: No Pre-programmed drinks: 4 | ||
 | Manual Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Single boiler Display: Lever PID: No | ||
best overall  | Automatic Grinder: 30 settings Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermojet Display: Buttons and LCD PID: Yes | ||
 | Super-automatic Grinder: Milk frothing: None Heating system: Thermoblock Display: Buttons PID: No Pre-programmed drinks: 2 | ||
 | Automatic Grinder: 8 settings Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Dual thermoblock Display: Buttons PID: No | ||
 | Automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermocoil Display: Buttons PID: Yes, adjustable |
1.Rancilio Silvia
Feautures:
- Semi-automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Single boiler
- Display: Switches
- PID: No
The Rancilio Silvia is one of the most popular home espresso machines. It is a semi-automatic espresso machine that has been around for more than 20 years. The Rancilio Silvia is probably the most durable espresso machine in our list. The build is amazing, so you can be sure it will last for years.
Compared to other espresso machines under $1000, the Rancilio Silvia does not have many advanced features such as programmable shots or quick heat up time. However, it comes with some other advantages that would interest the serious home barista. If you are looking for a machine with a simple workflow, we would not recommend this machine.
The Rancilio Silvia comes with a 58mm commercial-grade portafilter. This should help achieve a better and more complex extraction assuming you are using a good burr grinder. This espresso machine also gives you the option to adjust the brewing pressure which will give you more options when dialing in your espresso shot. This feature is uncommon in home espresso machines.
The steam wand in the Rancilio Silvia is very powerful. You can use the knob next to the steam wand to control the amount of steam the machine releases. The steam wand can produce more power than you need for steaming, so you will need some practice to find the sweet spot.
The Rancilio Silvia has a pretty simple interface. It has 4 switches for power, brewing, steaming and hot water and a knob to control the steaming power.
The Rancilio Silvia uses a single boiler which means it is not going to be the fastest machine. You can expect it to take up to 15 minutes to heat up. Also, you will have to wait a couple of minutes after brewing for the machine to be ready to steam. This is not ideal because your espresso will get cold while you wait for the machine to reach steaming temperature. But, there is a workaround for this. The solution is to steam first and then brew.
Another drawback of the Rancilio Silvia is the lack of PID. Most modern espresso machines now include PID technology which helps keep the temperature stable from shot to shot. However, because of the large boiler, the machine is still capable of maintaining a pretty stable temperature even without the PID. If you want to make sure you are brewing at the same temperature every time with the Rancilio Silvia, you will have to purge some water after every shot which adds more work. Again, this machine is not for the person looking for a simple workflow.
Who is it for?
The Rancilio Silvia is ideal for the serious home barista looking for an espresso machine under $1000. It has some features usually found in commercial grade machines such as the 58mm portafilter and the adjustable brewing pressure. However, the drink making process can be long and complicated. There will definitely be a long learning curve for beginners. We would not recommend this machine for someone looking for a hands-off espresso making process.
Pros
- Excellent build quality. It will last for years
- Commercial grade 58mm portafilter
- Powerful steam wand that can create microfoam for lattes
- Adjustable brewing pressure
- Large water reservoir
Cons
- No built-in grinder
- No PID technology
- Requires around 15 minutes to heat up
2.Barista Express
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: 16 settings
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermocoil
- Display: Buttons
- PID: Yes
The Barista Express is probably one of the most popular Breville machines in the market. It is an automatic espresso machine with a built-in grinder, a durable stainless steel build, and a quick heat-up time.
The integrated grinder is a conical burr grinder with 16 settings. The grinder has a dose control function which means you can choose the amount of coffee grounds you want to get for each shot. The machine will then grind straight into the portafilter which makes the process less messy. The grind size is pretty consistent but with only 16 grind settings you will not have enough flexibility when dialing in your espresso. The difference between one grind setting and the next one can be too large.
The Breville Barista Express offers adjustable automatic pre-infusion which consists in soaking the coffee grounds before applying pressure to achieve a more even extraction. This machine also uses PID temperature control to keep the brewing temperature stable. This is really important to get consistent results every time you pull a new shot.
Another great feature is the auto-purge funcion. The Barista Express will adjust the temperature after steaming, so that you can be ready to brew a new espresso shot at the right temperature.
While you have the option to automate grinding, dosing and brewing, milk frothing is still going to be fully manual. Another potential drawback is that the machine is pretty big. The brewing and grinding functions can be pretty noisy so consider if this would be a problem for you.
Who is it for?
The Breville Barista Express is a great machine if you are looking to make espresso brewing your new hobby but do not want to invest a lot of money on a high end machine yet. It provides the basic functions for a great espresso brewing experience but does not have many nice-to-have features.
Pros
- Built-in burr grinder with dosing control. You can choose to grind just as much coffee as you need for your espresso shot
- Steam wand with auto-purge feature for ideal brewing temperature
- Heats up in less than 1 minute
- Built-in steam wand that can create perfect microfoam
- Pre-infusion and PID for better extraction
Cons
- The grinder could have more settings
- Long learning curve for beginners
- No automatic milk frothing
3. DeLonghi Magnifica Evo
Feautures:
- Super-automatic
- Grinder: 13 settings
- Milk frothing: Automatic
- Heating system: Thermoblock
- Display: Buttons
- PID: No
- Pre-programmed drinks: 7
The DeLonghi Magnifica is a great option if you are looking for an all-in-one super automatic machine under $1000. This machine can brew both espresso and coffee. With the Magnifica Evo, you can get any of 7 pre-programmed drinks just by pressing a button. It is truly a bean to cup machine.
The built-in burr grinder has 13 adjustable settings that will allow you to fine-tune your shot of espresso for different bean types. You also have the option to adjust the dose, volume and strength of your drink.
We particularly liked the user interface in the Magnifica Evo. All the buttons you need are on top of the machine and are clearly labeled with icons. You will see one soft touch icon for each one of the drink options.
The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo features automatic milk frothing with a carafe system. All you need to do is put the milk in the carafe, attach it to the machine and select your drink. The machine will froth and add the milk to your drink. Of course, this means you will not get the chance to try pretty latte art on your drinks. There is also a slightly cheaper version of this machine without the automatic milk frothing feature. But, we believe this version with the automatic milk frother is better value. Unless, you want to try your hand at latte art.
Even though it looks very compact, the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo features a pretty large 60 oz water tank which comes in handy if you drink lots of americanos. You will not have to refill the tank as often.
Who is it for?
The Delonghi Magnifica Evo is a great option if you are looking for a super automatic machine under $1000. The Magnifica Evo surely lacks some of the features you usually find in higher end bean to cup machines such as a touch screen or the option to save drink preferences. But, it gives you the bean-to-cup experience without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 13 adjustment settings
- 7 preprogrammed drink options.
- 3 coffee strength adjustment levels
- Friendly user interface with soft touch icons
- Automatic milk frothing with carafe system
Cons
- No option to save drink preferences
- No option for manual milk frothing. You will not be able to try latte art
4. Philips 4300 – Best super automatic
Feautures:
- Super-automatic
- Grinder: 12 settings
- Milk frothing: Automatic
- Heating system: Thermoblock
- Display: Buttons
- PID: No
- Pre-programmed drinks: 9
The Philips 4300 is our favorite super automatic espresso machine in the list. Of course you can find more expensive super automatic machines with more advanced features. But, for an entry level super-automatic machine, the Philips 4300 is a pretty solid choice.
The Philips 4300 has 9 pre programmed drink options including espresso, ristretto, coffee, americano, cafe au lait, latte and cappuccino. You can choose one of the drinks using the very friendly user interface. The Philips 4300 features an LCD screen that you control using the very clearly labeled buttons. The interface is very easy to understand.
The Philips 4300 features a ceramic burr grinder with 12 settings. Ceramic grinders are not as loud as classic steel grinders.
This espresso machine gives you the option to customize each of the drinks. You can adjust the grind settings, coffee temperature and coffee strength. Also, the Philips 4300 has two user profiles and one guest profile so you can save your drink preferences.
The Philips 4300 features automatic milk frothing with a carafe system called LatteGo. All you need to do is put the milk in the carafe, attach it to the machine and select your drink. The machine will do the rest. Of course, this means you will not get the chance to try pretty latte art on your drinks.
You may have noticed that the Philips 4300 is very similar to the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo which is also in our list. These machines are usually compared. The main difference is that the Phillips has the option to save drink preferences with the user profiles while the Magnifica does not. But, the Philips is also a bit more expensive.
Who is it for?
The Philips 4300 is, in our opinion, the best super automatic under $1000. It is very similar to the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo but slightly more expensive. If you are looking for an espresso machine that lets you choose from pre-programmed drinks options, customize drinks and save drink preferences for different users, the Philips 4300 could be a great option.
Pros
- Ceramic burr grinder with 12 adjustment settings. Quiet grinder.
- 9 preprogrammed drink options
- Friendly user interface
- Option to save drink preferences. 2 user profiles and 1 guest profile.
- Automatic milk frothing with carafe system
Cons
- No option for manual milk frothing. You will not be able to try latte art
5.Gaggia Anima Prestige
Feautures:
- Super-automatic
- Grinder: 5 settings
- Milk frothing: Automatic
- Heating system: Single boiler
- Display: LCD and Buttons
- PID: No
- Pre-programmed drinks: 4
The Anima Prestige is a super automatic machine that lets you brew four different types of drinks: espresso, lungo, cappuccino and latte. What is more, you can adjust each drink to fit your preferences. This espresso machine lets you select between five strength levels and three temperature levels.
The Anima Prestige lets you make cappuccinos and lattes from start to finish just by pressing a button. You just need to put the milk in the included carafe, attach it to the machine and select the drink that you want. To make the process even simpler, this machine has an option to clean the milk circuit after you finish making a milk base drink. This way you can keep your machine clean without any additional effort.
Considering all the functionality, this espresso machine is still very compact so it can be a good option if you are short on countertop space. There is also a hot water option that can be great to have if you just want to make some tea. Like many other Gaggia machines, the Anima comes with an adjustable telescopic coffee dispenser. It should give you enough clearance even for travel mugs.
Who is it for?
The Gaggia Anima Prestige is the most expensive espresso machine in our list. It is an entry level super-automatic machine very similar to the Philips 4300 and the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo in terms of features. However, you may prefer this machine if you do not want to worry too much about cleaning. The Gaggia Anima Prestige makes this easier with the option to automatically clean the machine after every use.
Pros
- Built-in grinder
- 6 preprogrammed drink options
- Option to adjust temperature and strength levels
- Automatic milk frothing with carafe system
- Easy cleaning
Cons
- Expensive
- Only 5 grind settings
- No user profiles to save different drink preferences.
6. La Pavoni Europiccola
Feautures:
- Manual
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Single boiler
- Display: Lever
- PID: No
The La Pavoni Europiccola is very different from every other machine in our list. It is a manual espresso machine. But, why are we recommending a manual machine when you can get a more advanced espresso machine for the same budget?
The La Pavoni Europiccola is a classic. This espresso machine was first released in 1961 and it is still around. That tells you how much people love it.
But this espresso machine is not for everyone. Pulling an espresso shot with this machine involves a lot of work. You have to enjoy the process of pulling a shot the old fashioned way. With the La Pavoni you have full control over the brewing process and parameters.
Pulling the espresso shot consists of 2 stages. First, you have to lift the lever which will start the pre-infusion by letting hot water into the chamber. You decide how long pre-infusion should be. After that, you have to apply pressure on the lever to pull the espresso shot. About 20 kg of pressure should get you to the right pressure for espresso extraction.
The La Pavoni Europiccola includes a milk frother so you can also try making cappuccinos and lattes.
Who is it for?
La Pavoni Europiccola is for the home barista who enjoys the process of pulling a manual espresso shot. It will take practice to master this machine and get the best possible espresso. But, you will have the ability to control every brewing parameter. If you just want an easy way to get some coffee in the morning, stay away from this machine.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Can make great espresso with some practice
- Full control over brewing parameters
- Very durable
- Training video included
Cons
- Expensive for a manual machine
- Long learning curve
7.Breville Barista Pro
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: 30 settings
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermojet
- Display: LCD and buttons
- PID: Yes
The Breville Barista Pro is our top pick for the best espresso machines under $1000. The Breville Barista Pro offers plenty of control over the brewing process as it gives you the option to adjust most of the settings. Not to mention that it can make really high quality espresso thanks to features such as pre-infusion and PID temperature control.
At first glance, the Barista Pro looks like a more modern and sleek version of the Barista Express. But, you are actually getting some additional cool features besides just the design.
Just like the original Barista Express, the Barista Pro has a built-in conical burr grinder. But, this grinder now has 30 settings which will give you more flexibility if you are into fine tuning your espresso shot.
The Breville Barista Pro has multiple features that will help you get a high quality shot of espresso. First, the pre-infusion feature will wet the ground before brewing begins for a richer extraction. The Barista Pro even lets you adjust the pre-infusion time so that you can experiment until you find the time that gives you the best results. Then, the PID temperature control system will keep the temperature stable during the brewing process which is important when you are trying to get standard results for every shot you pull.
The Barista Pro uses the latest thermojet technology which will let you go straight from steaming to brewing with no wait time. This also means the machine only needs 3 seconds to preheat.
The user interface features an LCD screen. The LCD screen shows information like grind size, grinding time, and brewing temperature. The LCD display makes it easy to navigate and adjust the different settings. It will also guide you through the drink making process and show you exactly what is happening in every moment.
The Barista Pro features a steam wand with four holes for better aeration and that can generate enough pressure to create ideal microfoam for latte art. Moreover, thanks to the ThemoJet system the milk frothing process only takes about 30 seconds.
Who is it for?
The Barista Pro is ideal for someone who wants to seriously get into espresso making and have more control over the brewing process. The Barista Pro will give you the option to adjust most of the brewing parameters. The Barista Pro is one of the best espresso machines under $1000 and although it is not the most affordable, it offers great value for the price.
Pros
- Thermojet technology heats up the machine is only a few seconds
- Conical burr grinder with 30 grind settings and dose control
- LCD screen makes navigation easy. You can see what step of the process you are on.
- Retractable power cable
- Modern design. Comes in 9 different colors
- Adjustable pre-infusion time
- Four-hole steam wand is faster and creates better microfoam
Cons
- No automatic milk frothing
- Can’t program drinks, just espresso (single vs. double)
- No cup warmer tray
8. Jura ENA 4
Feautures:
- Super-automatic
- Milk frothing: None
- Heating system: Thermoblock
- Display: Buttons
- PID: No
- Pre-programmed drinks: 2
The Jura ENA 4 is probably the most aesthetic machine in our list. It is a super-automatic machine but it does not include a milk frothing system. This means you can only use the machine to make espresso and black coffee. If being able to make milk based drinks is a must have feature for you, skip this one.
Our two favorite features in the Jura ENA 4 are the aesthetic design and the smartphone connectivity.
Even though the exterior of the Jura ENA 4 is mainly plastic, the main attraction is the faux diamond water tank. It is truly beautiful and will look amazing in your kitchen. If you are all about aesthetics, this could be enough reason to get this espresso machine. The Jura ENA 4 is also pretty compact, so you should have no problem finding room for it.
It is common for super-automatic espresso machines to sacrifice espresso quality for a hand-soff brewing experience. However, Jura uses advanced technology during grinding and extraction to achieve better espresso flavor. Superior to what you can get with most super-automatic espresso machines.
The interface in the Jura ENA 4 is very simple and easy to use. It only has 4 buttons: 1 to adjust the coffee strength, 2 to choose between espresso and coffee and 1 to access settings.
However, the best way to control the Jura ENA 4 is via the smartphone app. But, there is a catch. If you want to use the app, you will need the smart connect device which is not included with the ENA 4. You can get it separately for about $60.
Once you have the smart connect device and the app downloaded, you can control your drink preferences from your phone. Also, you can use voice commands via Siri and ask her to make an espresso.
Who is it for?
The Jura ENA 4 is ideal for the home barista who mainly drinks espresso and black coffee and who values the aesthetics of an espresso machine. If you want to be able to make milk based drinks, stay away from this machine. The Jura ENA 4 can also be a great option for someone looking for a machine with smartphone connectivity.
Pros
- High quality espresso. Better than most super-automatic machines
- Very aesthetic. Beautiful faux diamond water tank
- Easy to use interface
- Can be controlled via the smartphone app. You can ask Siri to make an espresso.
Cons
- No milk steaming function
- You need to buy the smart connect device separately to use the Jura app
9. La Specialista Prestigio
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: 8 settings
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Dual thermoblock
- Display: Buttons
- PID: No
The DeLonghi La Specialista is an automatic espresso machine that gives many options for customization in the espresso brewing process.
La Specialista Prestigio includes a built-in burr grinder with 8 grind settings and dose control. The dose control function lets you select the desired output of ground coffee you want and the machine will grind just the amount of coffee. Moreover, thanks to a sensor the grinding process will automatically begin when you put the portafilter in place.
If you are concerned about your tamping abilities, you do not have to worry about this with La Specialista Prestigio. This machine includes a smart tamper. All you have to do is pull down a lever and the smart tamper will perfectly tamp your coffee grounds every time.
When it comes to brewing, The Delonghi La Specialista features pre-infusion technology for better espresso extraction. Pre-infusion helps reduce channeling which can lead to uneven extraction of coffee. La Specialista Prestigio also uses an auto shut off function for espresso extraction. The machine will pull the espresso shot for 20-30 seconds and then stop automatically. You also have the option to stop the espresso brewing process manually.
The DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio uses a dual boiler which means there will be no wait time between brewing and steaming. When it comes to steaming, La Specialista Prestigio features a very powerful steam wand that will let you create good microfoam for lattes. The milk frothing process is manual so you will need to practice a few times until you get the right milk texture for your drinks.
Who is it for?
The Delonghi La Specialists is for those who want the convenience of a hands-off brewing and drink making experience but also want to have fun tweaking their espresso shots. If you plan to use different kinds of coffee beans and do not want to deal with adjusting the dose every time, you may get impatient with this machine.
Pros
- Built-in grinder with dose control will get you the right amount of grounds for your shot
- Easy smart tamping system
- The water temperature remains stable for even brewing
- The updated steam wand is powerful enough to make great microfoam
Cons
- Grinder has only 8 settings so it is not the best for fine tuning your espresso
- Milk frothing is manual
- The steam wand is not very mobile. It can be hard to get the pitcher in the right position for milk frothing
10. Breville Infuser
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermocoil
- Display: Buttons
- PID: Yes, adjustable
Our last recommendation is a Breville machine that is way below the $1000 budget. Indeed, we have also included this machine in our list of best espresso machines under $500. As you can see, we really like this one.
The Breville Infuser is very similar to the Breville Barista Express but without the grinder. But, there is about a $200 difference between the two machines. To be honest, the Barista Express does not have the best grinder. Getting the Breville Infuser instead gives you the option to spend those $200 on a better burr grinder.
We really like the Breville Infuser because it includes a combination of features that focus on delivering the best espresso quality.
The Breville Infuser lets you adjust the brewing temperature in 2F increments. This is great for people who really want to experiment dialing different values for an espresso shot. The Breville Infuser also includes PID control technology which will make sure that the brewing temperature remains stable during extraction. Super important for even espresso extraction.
Two more features that contribute to great espresso quality are the pre-infusion technology and the auto-purge function. Pre-infusion consists in soaking the coffee grounds for a few seconds right before extraction for a more even extraction. The auto-purge function makes sure that, after steaming, the temperature goes back down to an ideal brewing temperature.
With the Infuser you can choose whether to brew a single or double shot with a simple button. It has a dedicated button for a single shot and another one for a double. You can also program the extraction time for both shots.
On top of that, this espresso machine features a dedicated water outlet which can be great for americanos or simply tea.
The Infuser features a manual steam wand. We really like how mobile the wand is. It can swivel 360 degrees making it easier to use.
Pros
- Cheaper than other machines in the list
- Makes consistently great tasting espresso
- Extraction time can be pre programmed for single and double shots.
- Option to adjust the brewing temperature.
- Has a dedicated water outlet. Great for americano or tea.
- Manual steam wand is easy to maneuver and can make high-quality microfoam.
Cons
- No built-in grinder. Additional investment if you don’t already own a burr grinder.
- No automatic milk frothing
Buying Guide
With a budget of $1000 you can find a variety of espresso machines from a classic manual machine like La Pavoni to a super-automatic with smartphone connectivity like the Jura ENA 4. We know that having so many option can be overwhelming, so we have put together this buying guide to help you choose the best espresso machine for you. These are the factors you want to think about when making a choice.
Espresso quality
The most important characteristic in an espresso machine is its capacity to produce high quality espresso.
Generally speaking super-automatic machines tend to deliver lower quality espresso compared to manual and semi-automatic machines. Basically, you are sacrificing espresso taste for convenience.
Espresso machines that have features such as PID technology and pre-infusion tend to be better at making great tasting espresso. Pre-infusion consists in soaking the coffee grounds right before brewing to avoid channeling and achieve a more even extraction. PID technology contributes to consistency. PID ensures that the brewing temperature remains consistent shot after shot so that you get consistent results.
Some of the espresso machines in our selection of best espresso machines under $1000 include these features. Some espresso machines such as the Breville Infuser even let you adjust the PID temperature.
Level of automation
There are 4 different levels of automation that espresso machines can have. The more automation a machine has, the more hands-off the brewing experience will be. But, this also means you will have less control over the brewing process. With a $1000 budget, you can get an espresso machine with any level of automation.
In case you are not familiar with the difference between a semi-automatic and a super-automatic machine, we will explain the different levels of automation.
- Manual: A manual espresso machine gives you full control over the brewing process. The machine is operated by pushing and pulling a lever to create pressure for extraction. This is where the term pulling a shot comes from. In addition to this, you will have to grind, dose and tamp the coffee grounds. If this is what you are looking for, then you could consider La Pavoni Europiccola.
- Semi-automatic: A semi-automatic espresso machine will pull the shot for you, but you still have to stop the extraction manually. Also, you have to do the grinding, dosing and tamping. The Rancilio Silvia and Breville Infuser are great semi-automatic espresso machine options under $1000.
- Automatic: An automatic espresso machine is very similar to a semi-automatic. The difference is that the automatic espresso machine is programmed to stop the brewing process after a certain time. You do not have to worry about manually stopping the flow of espresso. Automatic machines may or may not have automatic milk frothing as well. A few of the espresso machines in our list are automatic machines. Our top automatic espresso machine under $1000 pick is the Breville Barista Pro.
- Super-automatic: A super-automatic espresso machine will get you the highest level of automation. It basically does all the work for you. It grinds, doses, and tamps the coffee grounds. Super-automatic machines may or may not have automatic milk frothing. More automatic does not necessarily mean superior quality. On the contrary, super automatic machines tend to sacrifice espresso quality for the convenience of an automatic process. But, many people are just looking for a quick way to press a button and get a cappuccino. About half of the machines in this list are super automatic machines.
Milk Frothing
If you plan to make lattes, cappuccinos and other milk drinks, you want to choose an espresso machine with a decent steam wand. A good steam wand should be able to make both thick foam for cappuccinos and velvety microfoam for lattes.
All machines in our list, with the exception of the Jura ENA 4, feature a built-in milk frother. The difference is that the milk frothing process is automatic in some espresso machines and manual in others.
If you do not want to go through the process of learning how to froth milk, you should look for espresso machines with automatic milk steaming. The problem with automatic milk frothing is that the steam wand is usually not powerful enough to make microfoam for lattes.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning an espresso machine can be a troublesome process. Our list of best espresso machines under $1000 includes machines that are relatively low maintenance.
Heating System
The heating system that an espresso machine uses will determine its ability to achieve consistent and optimal temperature, its heat up time, and its durability. The espresso machines in our list of best espresso machines under $500 use one of the following heating systems.
- Boiler: This is the original heating system that was used for espresso machines. They offer very consistent temperatures and are long lasting. However, they take quite a few minutes to heat up. For example, the Rancilio Silvia uses a single boiler and it can take about 15 minutes for the machine to heat up and be ready to use.
- Thermoblock: This heating system is very common in entry level machines. In espresso machines using thermoblock, the water travels through a heated block of metal. This is how the water gets up to brewing temperature. Thermoblocks are relatively inexpensive. An espresso machine using a thermoblock will also have a faster heat up time than one using a boiler. The drawback is that thermoblocks can lack consistency and longevity.
- Thermocoil: Thermocoils are similar to thermoblocks. The difference is that instead of traveling through a block of metal, the water circulates through a tube. Thermocoils tend to be more consistent and last longer.
- Thermojet: This is the newest heating technology. Espresso machines using the thermojet technology can heat up in only 3 seconds. Also, they can switch immediately between brewing and steaming. The drawback is that even though the water can reach the optimal temperature pretty fast, the group head and the portafilter are still cold. This is why it is recommended to pull a blank shot to preheat the portafilter and group head too.
Footprint
One factor many people do not think about is that espresso machines can take a lot of room in your kitchen. If you have limited space in your kitchen countertop, you may want to consider more compact models such as the La Pavoni or the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo.
Number of users
If there are multiple people in your household who will be using the espresso machine, you may want to choose a machine that can easily and quickly make drink after drink. It would be hard to achieve this with the Rancilio Silvia for example as you need to wait between brewing and steaming and it needs to be purged after every drink.
Even if you have already decided on a super-automatic machine, you may want to consider whether the machine has the option to have different user profiles. If there are multiple people who will be using the machine, this feature can be useful so everyone can save their drink preferences. The Philips 4300 in our list includes 2 user profiles and 1 guest profile.
The Verdict
The Breville Barista Pro is our favorite espresso machine under $1000. We believe it offers a good amount of control over the brewing parameters while still being relatively easy to use.
Our runner up is the Rancilio Silvia, a classic and a very durable machine. This machine has features usually found in commercial grade machines that serious home baristas would appreciate. However, it is not the most convenient machine.
Finally, if you are set on a super-automatic, our top recommendation would be the Philips 4300.
We hope this list of the 10 best espresso machines under $1,000 has helped you find your next espresso machine. If you are looking for espresso machines in different price ranges, check our list of best espresso machines under $500.