Looking for a quick answer? We have chosen the Breville Infuser as the best espresso machine under $500.
Are you looking for the best espresso machine under $500? This is actually an ideal budget for an entry level espresso machine. Finding a good espresso machine with a very low budget can be challenging. But, with $500 you can get an espresso machine that can produce pretty decent espresso.
We have put together a list of the best espresso machines under $500. A while ago, we were also looking for an espresso machine in this budget. We spent hours researching, so we hope this list will make the process easier for you.
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 Infuser
Best super-automatic: Gaggia Brera
Best value: Breville Bambino
The top 9 espresso machines under $500
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
best overall  | Automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermocoil Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: Yes PID: Yes, adjustable | ||
 | Semi-automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Single boiler Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: No PID: No | ||
best value  | Automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermojet Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: Yes PID: Yes | ||
 | Automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Automatic Heating system: Thermojet Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: Yes PID: Yes | ||
best super-automatic  | Super-automatic Grinder: 5 settings Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Single boiler Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: Yes PID: No | ||
 | Automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermoblock Display: Knob Pre-infusion: Yes PID: Yes | ||
 | Semi-automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermocoil Display: Knobs Pre-infusion: Yes PID: Yes | ||
 | Semi-automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Manual Heating system: Thermoblock Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: Yes PID: No | ||
 | Super-automatic Grinder: None Milk frothing: Automatic Heating system: Thermoblock Display: Buttons Pre-infusion: No PID: No |
1.Breville Infuser – Best overall
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermocoil
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: Yes, adjustable
The Breville Infuser is our favorite espresso machine in the under $500 price range. Our favorite thing about it is that it includes a combination of features that focus on delivering the best espresso quality. Quite impressive for the price.
First, the Breville Infuser allows you to 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.
The downside of the Breville Infuser is that it does not include a grinder so that will be an additional investment.
Pros
- 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
- Steeper learning curve. It is not as simple to use as other entry-level machines.
- No built-in grinder. Additional investment if you don’t already own a burr grinder.
2.Gaggia Classic Pro
Feautures:
- Semi-automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual steam wand
- Heating system: Single boiler
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: No
- PID: No
The Gaggia Classic Pro is our favorite semi-automatic machine by Gaggia. This machine comes with a full sized 58mm portafilter which is the kind of portafilter that professional baristas use. Most home semi-automatic espresso machines use smaller portafilters. A 58mm portafilter lets you produce a shot of espresso with more clarity and complex flavors if you are using a good burr grinder. So make sure to invest in one if you don’t already own one. The Gaggia Classic Pro does not feature a built-in grinder.
The Classic Pro uses a single boiler, so it is not the fastest machine. You will have to wait about five minutes for it to heat up before you start brewing. Also, you will have to wait a few seconds for the temperature to increase when switching from brewing to steaming and vice versa. Luckily, there is a light indicator that will tell you when the machine is ready for brewing or steaming so you don’t have to guess.
Classic Pro’s steam wand has a two-hole tip that can create good microfoam for latte art. However, the steaming process is fully manual so you will have to practice your skills to achieve the right milk texture for the drink you are making.
The Gaggia Classic Pro is meant to be easy to use so it lacks some customization and brewing features that are present in more advanced espresso machines. First, the Classic Pro does not have a flow stop function which means you will need to decide when to stop the espresso brewing process. Also, the Gaggia Classic Pro does not give you the option to adjust the brewing temperature. Our main complaint about this machine is that it does not include PID technology. This can make the espresso extraction a bit inconsistent.
Pros
- Includes professional size 58mm portafilters
- 2 hole manual steam wand that can make microfoam
- Awesome build quality
- Easy to use. Only has 3 clearly labeled buttons.
Cons
- Lack of customization features such as adjustable temperature
- Does not have PID technology which can lead to inconsistent extraction
- No flow stop function.
- No built-in grinder. Additional investment if you don’t already own a burr grinder.
3.Bambino – Best value
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermojet
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: Yes
The Bambino is probably the espresso machine that offers the best value. Despite the very affordable price, the Bambino uses the latest thermojet technology. With this heating technology your machine will be ready to brew espresso in 3 seconds and there will be no wait time between brewing and steaming
The Breville Bambino uses a low pressure pre-infusion function. Pre-infusion consists in soaking the coffee grounds for a few seconds right before extraction for a more even extraction.
The Bambino is a very compact machine. If you have limited countertop space, this is another good reason to choose the Bambino.
The Breville Bambino lets you 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.
The Bambino has a manual steam wand that lets you create microfoam and play with latte art. However, the steam wand is not as powerful and milk steaming will take a little longer compared to other machines.
Pros
- Extraction time can be pre programmed for single and double shots.
- Fast heat-up time with thermojet technology
- Very compact. Great if limited countertop space is your main concern
Cons
- No automatic milk frothing
- Does not include steaming pitcher
- Longer steam time with one-hole wand
4.Bambino Plus – Best for latte and cappuccino lovers
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Automatic
- Heating system: Thermojet
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: Yes
The Bambino Plus is an upgraded version of Bambino. Both machines have a very similar look and build but the Bambino Plus has quite a few additional features.
Just like its more affordable version, the Bambino Plus uses the thermojet heating technology which eliminates wait time between steaming and brewing. The Bambino Plus comes with more accessories such as a steaming pitcher and a stainless steel tamper. It also has a larger water tank which means that you will be able to brew more shots of espresso before needing to refill the tank.
The main additional feature you will get with the Bambino Plus is the automatic milk frothing function. With the Bambino Plus, you can make lattes and cappuccinos even if you have zero milk frothing skills. The Bambino Plus lets you choose the milk temperature and texture so you can get both microfoam for a latte or thicker foam for a cappuccino. After choosing the steaming preferences, all you need to do is press a button and the machine will do the rest of the job for you. There is a temperature sensor on the machine, so the Bambino Plus will stop steaming once the milk has reached the desired temperature.
While the Bambino Plus is an amazing machine for espresso and milk based drinks, it can be harder to make an Americano with this machine. The Bambino Plus does not have a water outlet like most espresso machines do. If you want to get hot water, you will have to steam the water using the steaming want or just boil water separately.
Pros
- Fast heat-up time with thermojet technology
- Offers automatic milk steaming.
- Compact. Will save you countertop space.
- Has pre-infusion technology.
Cons
- No dedicated hot water outlet. Only way to get hot water is to steam a pitcher of water.
- No control over extraction temperature
- No built-in grinder
5. Gaggia Brera – Best super automatic
Feautures:
- Super-automatic
- Grinder: 5 settings
- Milk frothing: Manual steam wand
- Heating system: Single boiler
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: No
The Gaggia Brera is the only super-automatic machine in the list. Super-automatic espresso machines can be really expensive and the Gaggia Brera occupies a unique place in the market by offering a budget super-automatic espresso machine.
The Gaggia Brera is also the only machine in the list to offer a built-in burr grinder. But, you also have the option to use pre-ground coffee beans.
The Gaggia Brera is also pretty easy to use with its friendly user interface. You can indicate how much coffee ground you want to use for your espresso, choose the coffee strength and the cup size.
While the grinding and brewing processes are fully automated, milk steaming is still manual. There will be a learning curve if you don’t already know how to froth milk for espresso drinks. Moreover, the machine has a pannarello steam wand which means that it will be hard to achieve the microfoam texture required for latte art.
This espresso machine is pretty compact so the water tank is on the smaller side and you will need to refill it pretty often. On the brightside, it won’t take a lot of countertop space in your kitchen.
Despite its shortcomings, if you are looking for a super-automatic espresso machine under $500, we definitely recommend the Gaggia Brera.
Pros
- Affordable entry-level super automatic machine
- Built-in grinder
- Compact and easy to use
Cons
- Milk steaming is manual.
- Panarello steam wand is not the best at making microfoam
- Small water tank
6.Calphalon Temp IQ
Feautures:
- Automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermoblock
- Display: Knob
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: Yes
The Calphalon Temp IQ is a semi-automatic espresso machine with a simple design that provides all the basic features necessary for high quality espresso.
There are two versions of this machine: one with a grinder and one without it. If you are looking to stay under the $500 budget, you would be looking at the one without the grinder.
The Calphalon Temp IQ comes with a full size 58mm portafilter. This professional size portafilter allows for more clarity and complex flavors in the espresso shot.
This espresso machine also comes with both dual and single wall portafilter baskets. The dual wall or pressurized basket is going to be easier for beginners to use. Pressurized baskets tend to be very forgiving and produce good enough espresso even if you do not use the proper grind size or tamping is uneven.
The Calphalon Temp IQ uses the thermoblock heating technology which means the machine will have a very short heat up time. For better espresso quality, this machine includes PID technology. PID ensures consistent temperature during brewing for a more even extraction and better espresso taste.
The Calphalon is very easy to use. The machine features a single dial that you can use to select a single or double shot and to switch to steaming. Once you select the size of shot you want, the Calphalon will start the pre-infusion process. This means that the machine will soak the coffee grounds before extraction to achieve a more aromatic shot. After pre-infusion, the espresso machine will start to brew and stop extraction on its own when ready.
This espresso machine features a commercial-grade steam wand. We have no major complaints about the steam wand. It produces good pressure and it is easy to rotate. After a few tries we were able to create nice microfoam.
Now, let’s mention some of the drawbacks. First, the tamper included with Calphalon Temo IQ is made of plastic. Plastic tampers are harder to use as sometimes the coffee grounds stick to them. We would recommend upgrading to a metal tamper which should be pretty affordable.
We have also seen multiple people mention that it is almost impossible to find replacement parts for this machine. If you decide to get it, be careful with those portafilter baskets!
Pros
- 15 seconds heat up time
- Includes pressurized and non-pressurized portafilters
- Powerful commercial grade steam wand
Cons
- Plastic tamper
- Replacement parts not available
- No built-in grinder
7.Breville Duo Temp Pro
Feautures:
- Semi-automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermocoil
- Display: Knobs
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: Yes
The Breville Duo Temp Pro is a semi automatic espresso machine with a simple design and pretty basic features. The Duo Temp Pro may look simple but it has a few perks that make it capable of producing pretty good espresso.
First, the Duo Temp Pro has an auto-purge feature that helps bring the temperature down after steaming. This is important if you are planning to brew a second shot of espresso immediately after steaming. Brewing requires a lower temperature than steaming. If brewing temperature is too high you can end up with an over extracted espresso shot.
Another feature of the Duo Temp Pro is the pre-infusion technology. This will prepare the coffee grounds for better extraction by soaking them before applying pressure. The Breville Duo Temp Pro also includes PID control technology which will make sure that the brewing temperature remains stable during extraction. Super important for even espresso extraction.
Also, the Duo Temp pro also has a maintenance indicator that tells you when the machine needs cleaning. Another feature to notice is that the Duo Temp Pro has a bigger water tank compared to other machines in the price range. This means you won’t have to refill it as often.
Pros
- One one the most affordable Breville machines.
- Easy to use. There is a single knob to switch from brewing to steaming mode.
- Steam wand with auto-purge feature for ideal brewing temperature
- The water tank features a water filter for longer-lasting performance
Cons
- It takes up more space than other machines with similar features.
- There are no adjustment options, so you can’t play around with different results
8.DeLonghi Dedica Arte
Feautures:
- Semi-automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Manual
- Heating system: Thermoblock
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: Yes
- PID: No
The Delonghi Dedica Arte is a solid choice if you are looking for a very compact machine that can deliver great espresso without breaking the bank. This machine is only 6 inches wide and 13 inches deep but it can deliver good quality espresso. The DeLonghi Dedica Arte uses the Thermoblock heating system which provides better temperature control for better espresso quality.
The Dedica can brew single or double shots of espresso or you can also choose to use single-serve espresso pods. This espresso machine uses a flow control feature that will stop the brewing process automatically after the right amount of espresso has been extracted. So, that is one less thing to worry about.
A very nice feature in the Dedica EC885M is the cup warmer. You can use it to preheat your cup or to keep your espresso warm while you are frothing the milk.
The frothing system features a manual steam wand. You will have total control over the frothing process but will also need to practice your milk steaming skills. Another nice feature is that the steam wand can also dispense hot water in case you feel like making an americano or just some tea.
The downside of the Dedica is that it does not use PID technology for consistent temperature. Even though the machine still does a decent job controlling the temperature, the Dedica could produce even better results with PID. Also, the Dedica Arte does not give you the option to adjust the brewing temperature or the pre infusion time. This is an entry-level machine so the process is pretty straightforward giving you less variables to think about.
Pros
- Fast heat up time
- You can make a single or double shot or even use pods.
- Designed with auto flow stop
Cons
- No PID
- No option to adjust pre infusion time
- No option to adjust brewing temperature
9.Nespresso Lattissima Touch – Nespresso pick
Feautures:
- Super-automatic
- Grinder: None
- Milk frothing: Automatic
- Heating system: Thermoblock
- Display: Buttons
- Pre-infusion: No
- PID: No
Many will say a Nespresso machine is not a real espresso machine. We still wanted to include this option in case anyone is looking for a very hands-off alternative to get their espresso fix.
DeLonghi and Nespresso have teamed up to bring this capsule operated Nespresso Lattissima machine.
If you decide to get this machine, you will be sacrificing a bit on espresso quality. However, the drink making process is going to be a lot simpler compared to other espresso machines in the list.
The Nespresso Lattissima Touch has 6 buttons on top with drink options including latte and cappuccino. All you need to do is insert the pod and select your drink. From then, the machine will do everything, including milk frothing, for you.
Pros
- Hands-off experience. Just insert a pod and select your drink
- 25 seconds heat up time
Cons
- Espresso quality is not as good as what you can get with a real espresso machine
Buying Guide
A budget of $500 is ideal when looking for an entry-level espresso machine. As you can see, a lot of the espresso machines in our list look very similar. 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.
Level of automation
If you have been researching espresso machines for a while, you may have already heard about the different levels of automations. 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.
Most of the espresso machines in this list are semi-automatic and automatic. The Gaggia Brera is the only super-automatic espresso machine under $500 that we recommend. This espresso machine is a great option if you have set your mind on a super-automatic machine. Although it does not have an automatic milk frothing function.
In case you are not familiar with the different levels of automation, we will explain what each level of automation involves:
- 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.
- 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.
- Super-automatic: A super-automatic espresso machine will get 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.
Build Quality and Design
Good build quality usually means durability. A stainless steel machine is going to last longer than one with multiple plastic parts. All espresso machines in our list have a stainless steel build.
The size of the machine is also a factor to consider. Most of the entry-level machines are pretty compact. But, it is always good to compare sizes and make sure that the machine is going to fit on your countertop. For example, the Breville Bambino and the DeLonghi Dedica Arte are some of the more compact machines in our list. Whereas, the Breville Infuser is on the bigger side.
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. In our list, we have included espresso machines that are capable of frothing milk to these different textures.
If you are looking for an espresso machine under $500, most options are going to feature manual milk steaming only. The exception is the Bambino Plus. This espresso machine lets you choose the milk temperature and texture. Then, it will automatically steam the milk based on these preferences. If you do not want to go through the process of learning how to froth milk, the Bambino Plus is a great option.
Espresso quality
The most important characteristic in an espresso machine is its capacity to produce high quality espresso.
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.
Most of the espresso machines in our selection of best espresso machines under $500 include these features. Some espresso machines such as the Breville Infuser even let you adjust the PID temperature.
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 Gaggia Classic Pro uses a single boiler and it can take about 5 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.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning an espresso machine can be a troublesome process. Our list of best espresso machines under $500 includes machines that are relatively low maintenance.
The Verdict
If you are looking for the best espresso machine under $500, our top recommendation is the Breville Infuser. This espresso machine offers all the features that contribute to high quality espresso. It also offers some options to customize brewing parameters.
However, if you definitely want to get a super-automatic machine, our recommendation is the Gaggia Brera.
Are you looking for an even more hands-off process and do not mind sacrificing espresso quality? The Nespresso Lattissima Touch could be what you are looking for.