Bravo Verdict
Category Ranking

The Best Espresso Machines

Breville Barista Express
#1Best Overall
Breville

Breville Barista Express

$599
at Amazon
4.5 (12,483)
The Bravo Verdict

The best all around home espresso machine for beginners who want to grow.

Why we picked it

Integrated conical burr grinder, PID temperature control and a manual steam wand. Everything a beginner needs and everything an intermediate barista still uses.

Gaggia Classic Pro
#2Best Budget
Gaggia

Gaggia Classic Pro

$449
at Amazon
4.4 (3,211)
The Bravo Verdict

A modding legend. Simple, durable and endlessly upgradable.

Why we picked it

The cheapest way into real espresso. Solid brass group head, commercial steam wand and a modding community that has documented every possible upgrade.

Rancilio Silvia
#3Best for Modders
Rancilio

Rancilio Silvia

$795
at Amazon
4.5 (2,140)
The Bravo Verdict

Commercial grade internals in a home footprint. A modder's dream.

Why we picked it

The Silvia's cult following is earned. Brass boiler, commercial group and the same body design for over 20 years.

De'Longhi Dedica EC685
#4Best for Beginners
De'Longhi

De'Longhi Dedica EC685

$199
at Amazon
4.3 (18,500)
The Bravo Verdict

The gateway espresso machine. Small footprint, small price, real espresso.

Why we picked it

At 6 inches wide, it fits anywhere. The thermoblock heats fast and the pressurized portafilter makes decent espresso even without a great grinder.

Rocket Appartamento
#5Best Premium
Rocket

Rocket Appartamento

$1,795
at Amazon
4.8 (620)
The Bravo Verdict

Italian heat exchanger for people who take espresso seriously.

Why we picked it

Full heat exchanger design lets you brew and steam simultaneously. Built by hand in Milan with rotary pump options.

Flair 58
#6Best Portable
Flair

Flair 58

$599
at Amazon
4.6 (890)
The Bravo Verdict

Manual lever espresso at commercial quality. No electricity required for brewing.

Why we picked it

Full 58mm commercial portafilter, pre heat controller and pure manual lever action. Total control over pressure profiling.