The Best Espresso Machine Under $300 – Updated for 2022!
The reviews below for the best espresso machine under $300 consists of all the information you’ll need to find the right espresso machine in your particular budget.
If you don’t know what the ideal machine looks like and what you should look out for when buying one, the Buyer’s Guide below will be a significant help for you.
Related Post: Best Coffee Mug Warmer 2020
List of 10 Best Espresso Machine Under $300 in 2022!
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Best Espresso Machine Under $300 Reviews!
1. De'Longhi ECP3420 - Best Espresso Machine Under $300
The De’Longhi ECP3420, the best espresso machine under $300, is exactly what your coffee dreams are made of. Say hello to café-style beverages at the comfort of your home, all thanks to this coffee-maker that can effortlessly add a beautiful touch to your kitchen countertop.
A 15-bar pump does the job of pulling out maximum flavor from the coffee grounds to bring you a rich cup of coffee every-time. The brewing system makes sure that you taste quality in every sip. The frother beats up milk and steam to perfection, allowing you to enjoy the creamiest coffee beverages.
This coffee machine lets you choose between single or double shots, depending on how strong you want your drink to be. The three-in-one filter can use either coffee grounds or coffee pods.
A rapid cappuccino system serves the joy of countless steaming hot cups for all those home parties. This coffee maker has a drip tray that sits at the bottom to avoid any mess by collecting any spills.
Also, no worries if you’re wondering whether a small cup will be enough for you, this machine allows you to remove the tray and fit larger cups easily. The water level of the water tank can be easily seen, and refilling is pretty simple.
2. DeLonghi EC685R - Runner-Up Best Espresso Machine Under $300
The DeLonghi America EC685R, the 2nd Best Espresso Machine under $300, is here to bring you coffee with style, whether it is placed on your kitchen counter or work table, all thanks to the classy design. In just 35 seconds, you’ll find yourself sipping your favorite coffee beverages.
It has a 15 bar powerful pressure pump that makes sure you get a solid cup of coffee every time. The frothing wand lets you control how creamy and foamy you want your cappuccinos and lattes to be.
This coffee maker has a powerful brewing system that brings you café-style beverages without having to step out of your home. Don’t worry about cleaning any spills as the automatic flow stop feature won’t let that happen.
The large water tank can be easily removed and refilled. You can enjoy large-sized beverages, too, as the machine can adjust the cups easily. A rapid cappuccino system is ready to give steaming hot cups of coffee one after the other for every get-together.
3. Nespresso Vertuo - Best Budget Espresso Machine Under $300
The Nespresso Vertuo, the best budget Espresso Machine under $300, by De-Longhi is here to make sure that your day starts with a delicious and solid cup of coffee. You get to have the joy of sipping your favorite espresso drinks in just 15 seconds.
This coffee maker uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules to make rich flavored coffee. This is made possible by the Nespresso Centrifusion technology that pulls out maximum flavor from the capsules by spinning them at high speed.
It uses barcodes to know what capsules are being used and makes espresso or coffee according to that. You can make your coffee dark, mild, or light with this coffee machine depending on how you like it.
It has a large water tank that will have you covered with countless steaming hot espresso cups for every family gathering. This coffee machine comes with 12 free boxes of Nespresso Vertuoline capsules with added crema giving you a whole lot of flavors to try.
4. Klarstein Passionata Rossa 20 - Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Under $300
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 20, the best semi-automatic Espresso Machine under $300, is for every coffee lover who cannot go about their day without a solid cup of coffee. Apart from making rich flavored coffee, this machine can add a classy touch to any worktop.
The machine uses a 20 bar pressure pump to bring you a strong blend of flavors every time. It comes with a frother that allows you to mix steam and milk to make your favorite foamy coffee beverages. The steaming handle can be removed easily.
It has a drip tray that helps collect any spills. It can be easily removed and cleaned. The large water tank gives you the ease of making up to six cups in one use. Two cups can be made at the same time.
This coffee maker comes with a hot plate that is attached to it. The hot plate makes sure that every cup you get is steaming hot and fresh, just the way you like it.
5. Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker Under $300
The Breville ESP8XL Espresso Maker is for anyone who can’t go without having café quality espresso every morning. It is super easy to use, which means you’ll become a home barista in no time. The classy design will add beauty to any kitchen countertop.
It has a 15 bar pressure pump that does the work of pouring rich flavored coffee into your cup. The steam wand does the job of beating milk and steam to the foamy perfection that you look for in your cappuccinos and lattes. It also has a double-walled filter that makes rich cream for your drinks.
This coffee maker comes with a frothing pitcher. Measuring spoon and tamper helps you to get the right amount you need for your drink. A cleaning tool is added to make cleaning easier.
The large water tank saves you from going through the trouble of countless refills, and the water level can be easily seen. You don’t need to worry about any spills, all thanks to the drip tray that can be easily removed and cleaned.
6. EspressoWorks Barista Series - Best Value for The Money
10 Pc All-In-One Barista Bundle Espresso Machine & Cappuccino Maker, 19 BAR Pump Set w/ Built-in Milk Steam & Frother (Incl: Electric Coffee Bean Grinder, 2 Cappuccino & 2 Espresso Cups, Spoon/Tamper, Portafilter w/ Single & Double Shot Filter Baskets, 16 Art Stencil Templates
The EspressoWorks All-In-One Barista Bundle Espresso Machine is made for every coffee lover out there. The machine is ready for use in about 45 seconds that means you can enjoy your favorite coffee beverages in a matter of minutes. The large capacity of the water tank allows you to host all those family gatherings without having to go through countless refills.
It has a powerful 19 bar pressure pump that lets you make your own espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes. The grinder uses stainless steel blades to give the best flavors of the coffee beans.
The nicely sized spoon/tamper help get the right amount of coffee powder. It comes with four cups that let you enjoy steaming hot coffee without burning your hands. The built-in heating tray keeps the cups warm.
It has a high-quality portafilter basket that offers single or double shots. The built-in milk frother allows you to make the creamy cappuccinos and lattes you’ve always dreamt of.
The machine comes with 16 cappuccino art stencil templates that help you bring your inner barista out. The 1.4 L large detachable water tank can give up to 19 espresso shots if full.
7. DeLonghi America, EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso
The DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe Espresso machine has a slim design that allows you to fulfill your coffee needs anywhere, whether it is your workspace or kitchen counter. This espresso maker is super easy to use, and in about 35 seconds, you get to sip your favorite coffee beverages.
A powerful 15 bar pressure pump works to get rich flavored espresso shots. The froth made by the milk frother allows you to do cute art on your cappuccinos or lattes.
It has a removable water tank that can hold up to 35 oz of water. You can choose single or double shots and get a strong coffee just the way you like it in your favorite coffee shop.
This coffee maker has an automatic flow stop feature that means you don’t have to keep an eye for spills. No worries, if a smaller cup could not meet your needs, the double drip tray is removable. Just take it out and put your latte glass in there, your beverage will be ready in no time.
8. DeLonghi EC702 Espresso Maker Under $300
The DeLonghi EC702 Espresso Maker under $300 is here to bring you barista-style coffee at the comfort of your home. No need to rush to your local coffeehouse every morning to get your favorite coffee beverage, this espresso maker has got you covered.
The 15 bars of pressure pump make sure that every cup of coffee gets brewed just the way you like it. The Sempre Crema filter helps get the creamiest espresso every-time. It has a frother that mixes up steam and milk to bring you perfect cappuccinos and lattes with rich and creamy foam.
It gives the option of single or double shots, according to your taste. You are free to choose between coffee grounds or coffee pods as the three-in-one filter allows both.
This coffee machine has two separate thermostats that let you control the water and steam pressure separately. The rapid cappuccino system maintains the temperature so that you can get countless steaming hot cups for all those get-togethers.
The water tank is easy to remove, and refill and you can easily see the water level without having to guess if it needs a refill. It is easy to clean, and the no-drip design helps avoid spills.
9. De'Longhi BCO430BM Combination Pump Espresso Machine
The De’Longhi BCO430BM Combination Pump Espresso/Drip Coffee Machine is for anyone who wants to step up their coffee game. This coffee machine offers the best of both worlds to those who love drip coffee and espresso alike.
It is an all-in-one coffee maker that makes creamy espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes on one side using a 15 bar pressure pump while delicious drip coffee brews right next to it. The strong coffee brewing system makes sure that every cup is full of rich-tasting coffee.
You don’t have to move the machine to refill it, all thanks to the front-loading system that allows water and coffee loading from the front. The frother mixes up milk and steam to give you the creamiest coffee beverages.
It has a built-in water filter that helps to keep the water pure. The large water tank for espressos and a ten cup carafe for drip coffee will have you covered for any get-togethers.
The 24-hour digital timer lets you have a fresh coffee pot waiting for you whenever you want to enjoy it. It has a brew pause feature that allows you to pour whenever you want to. The warming plate at the base helps keep your coffee fresh and warm until you choose to have it.
10. EspressoWorks 7 Pc All-In-One Espresso Machine
The EspressoWorks 7 Pc All-In-One Espresso Machine is for anyone who wants to take their coffee game to another level. It allows you to make countless espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes for all those family breakfasts. Sip your favorite coffee beverages in just a few minutes.
This coffee maker uses a 15 bar pressure pump to get rich flavored coffee in your cup. It comes with a 120 V grinder that freshly grinds your coffee beans into a fine powder. The measuring spoon/tamper helps you get the right amount for every drink.
The high-quality filter with two baskets gives you the option of both single and double shots. It has a built-in steam wand that allows you to heat or steam the milk to make your favorite creamy coffee drink.
You can check the water level in the water tank as it offers a front view. The built-in handle allows easy removal and refilling of the water tank. It is easy to clean, as well.
What's important to know before buying the Best Espresso Machine Under $300?
For most people, an espresso machine is a one-time investment. They want to do it once, and they want to do it right. If you want to be careful and precise about the machine you purchase, make sure you know what you’re looking for and what an ideal espresso machine should look like for you.
1. Type of espresso machine!
First and foremost, decide what kind of espresso machine you want. There are three major types, as follows, each with its own set of pros and cons. You can pick the machine type based on your needs and preferences and narrow down your options accordingly:
• Manual
Manual machines require some labor work from you. You have to complete many tasks yourself, but it gives you the benefit of precise control over every part of the process.
Pros:
- As mentioned earlier, it gives you more control.
- These machines last longer than other types.
- The classic designs are always more aesthetically pleasing.
Cons:
- These units are often costly.
- They require some work and time.
• Semi-automatic
These machines comprise electric pumps, which make them slightly more convenient than manual machines. They do take away the control slightly, but you get a lot of ease in return.
Pros:
- These machines give you the ease of use with considerable control.
- They are slightly more affordable than the manual machines.
- The resultant espresso is of high quality and delicious.
Cons:
- Some semi-automatic espresso machines can still be quite expensive.
• Fully Automatic
As the name suggests, these machines are entirely automatic and work independently. Hence, they are far more comfortable to use than the manual and semi-automatic machines, but, as a result, they do take away quite a lot of control.
Pros:
- Using these machines is much more convenient.
- You can find affordable pieces in this category.
- These machines have a lot of technologically advanced features.
Cons:
- Automatic espresso machines are much less durable because of more electronic components.
- The amount of control over your espresso decreases considerably.
• Super-automatic
Super-automatic espresso machines are a perfect choice for people who have absolutely no time and extra energy to put into their coffee. Using these machines is as simple as adding coffee grounds and pressing buttons.
Pros:
- These machines are effortless to clean, maintain, and use.
- Their special technological features exceed the capabilities of any other espresso machine.
- These are fast and efficient and don’t require you to stand by.
Cons:
- You have the least amount of control with these machines.
- They can be more expensive than the automatic and semi-automatic machines.
2. Usability
Keep in mind the kind of usability that you are looking for in the machine. People who have a busy lifestyle and don’t have a lot of time and effort to learn and navigate a coffee machine should keep this factor in their criteria. When you purchase an espresso machine for your kitchen, make sure it is easy to use.
3. Cleaning and maintenance
If every cup of espresso that you make requires 15 minutes of cleaning afterward, it’s probably not worth it. Plus, cleaning the machine parts shouldn’t take any more than a few minutes, either. Nobody’s got the time for that anymore! The latest designs in espresso machines come with cleaning needs as easy as a breeze. Make sure you buy a device that is easy for you to maintain.
4. Size
Consider the space you have on the counter and how much of it you’re willing to give away to the machine. Getting the wrong size of the device can lead to ridiculous levels of frustration and regrets later. Thus, make sure you have the precise or approximate measurements of the space that you have and then get a machine accordingly.
5. Design and Aesthetics
The design of your espresso machine should be according to your taste. Decide whether you like the chic, stylish, and modern vibes or want to go for the classic, old-school, retro designs.
Plus, make sure that the design is convenient for usage, and the aesthetics match the overall theme of your kitchen.
6. Construction & Durability
When you invest a generous amount of money in your espresso machine, you naturally want to last it long. Consider your machine’s material, construction, and durability before buying it to make sure you get your money’s worth.
7. Versatility
Do you only want to make espresso, or do you want the option to make other types of coffee as well? Depending on your answer to this question, get a machine that allows you to make a diverse range of items. Many espresso machines also allow you to make lattes and other types of coffees as well.
8. Brand
If a brand seems unfamiliar, make sure you do your research before buying a product. Familiarise yourself with the brand’s values and reputation to better understand what you might be getting yourself into. If you have a specific espresso machine manufacturing brand in mind, it will help you make the decision easily by narrowing down your options.
9. Budget
Probably the essential part of this whole process is to make sure you know how much money you are willing to spend on an espresso machine. Once you have decided your budget, look for devices that fall into this price range so that you don’t overspend.
10. Additional features
Additional features in a coffee machine are not always an essential component. However, their presence significantly improves and enhances the overall performance of the tool. They include:
- Built-in in a coffee grinder
- Cup warmer
- Presets
- Water filter
- Frothing wand, etc.
Remember that some of these features might add to the overall price of your espresso machine. Hence, if you think an additional feature is vital for you and you don’t want to compromise on it, manage your budget accordingly.
What is the difference between espresso machines and coffee makers?
You might be searching for the difference between espresso and coffee maker. In this article, you will get to know the major difference between them. Coffee lovers usually know what type of coffee they want and accordingly select the right machine. For having a basic understanding of these machines, you need to know about coffee and espresso.
EXPRESSO VS COFFEE:
The authentic Italian drink called espresso is the love of coffee enthusiasts all around the world. It results in a creamy product that is rich in flavor. You can use it in two ways either you can drink it as it is or use it as a base of other coffee types, such as latte and cappuccino. You will find it thicker as compared to the filter coffee and also more consistent with caffeine. On the other side, coffee is thinner and less concentrated with caffeine as compare to espresso.
ESPRESSO MACHINE VS COFFEE MAKER:
Some differences between a coffee maker and an espresso machine are as follows:
- BREWING AND ROASTING:
The brewing method of these two machines creates the main difference. It also affects the texture of coffee and espresso. The brewing time of the espresso machine is less than the coffee maker. The way espresso process, it creates the thick creamy product. It may be due to the forceful flow of water through the beans.
- ROASTING:
When the coffee beans get roasted in the coffee maker, they are lighter. They also preserve the acidity of the beans. On the other hand, espresso gives you intense flavors due to its rich and darker roasted beans. That will give strength to your coffee for making cappuccinos and lattes.
- GRINDING
Espresso coffee machines use a fine, powder-like grind of coffee, while coffee makers use a coarse, thick grind.
- PRESSURE
An espresso machine uses high pressure to force water through coffee within only a few seconds. Coffee makers rely on the power of gravity to gradually pull water through the filters.
- AMOUNT OF CAFFEINE
We know the amount of caffeine is of high consistency in espresso as compare to coffee. There is around 95mg-165mg of caffeine made by coffee makers per 225ml cup. However, Espresso machines produce between 375mg and 520 mg of caffeine for the same 225ml.
How to clean an espresso machine?
Are you finding ways to clean your espresso machine and make it work like new? Sooner or later, you may start facing problems if you do not take proper care of the machine. One of them is the limescale that can affect the flow of water. It all happens when the hard water runs through the tiny tubes. The water leaves the mineral particles behind there. On the other side, many coffee particles get stuck into different parts of the machine. All this can damage your machine and the taste of your coffee. Daily cleaning is a must for having a well-running machine. Here we came with common and easy cleaning methods. You can perform all of these at home, and they give excellent results.
CLEANING WITH MACHINE CLEANING POWDER:
It is necessary to take care of the machine from the moment you purchase it. However, sometimes there comes the need to clean it in detail. You have to open up the parts of your machine one by one and clean every part separately. You only need to have a small cleaning brush and washing solution for the machine.
Take out the portafilter from the machine. Put the solution on the brush and start rubbing the brush on it. That will remove the stuck coffee particles from it. Now wash it with warm water to remove all the other stains on it. Take the brush with the cleaning powder and start cleaning the inner filters. It will remove the dirt and coffee particles that stick around them. These used coffee beans can spoil the taste of your coffee. Run the water like you do while making coffee to remove the cleaning powder, and also coffee particles will run through it. Here you are done, and the machine is ready to work.
CLEANING WITH CITRIC ACID:
What you can use to clean your machine is citric acid. Dissolve 1-2 tablespoon of citric acid in a glass of water. Put that mixture in the water tank and fill it up completely. Start the machine and get the dirty water out. Do it 4-5 times so that the acid will dissolve the mineral particles. Compare the cleanliness and flow of water from every previous attempt. Clean both the froth and coffee maker so that all the system gets cleaned properly. Keep repeating the steps until you get the clean water from both sides. You can refill the tank with the citric mixture if required. After a while, you find that clean water will start coming out from both the coffee maker and froth maker. It is a cheap and time-consuming process, but it works very well. Remember to run the plain water at the end so that you would not get a citric taste in your coffee.
CLEANING WITH VINEGAR AND LEMON JUICE:
Like you do with citric acid, you can also use vinegar or lime instead of that. These are the major easiest and cheapest ways to remove descaling and dirt from the machine. Mix half a lemon, half a cup of vinegar, and a half cup of water. Put the mixture inside the tank. Add water in it and fill it up completely. Mix the mixture with plain water. Now start the machine and run the solution through it. Repeat the steps until you get the clean water. Once you see the difference in the color of the water coming out, then stop the process. Here your machine is ready to give you a quality taste of your coffee.