You’re in the market for the best espresso machine yet you don’t want to spend $1,000+ for something that only the pros would use. That’s perfectly okay because there are GOBS of espresso machines for under $500 that should get the job done, and get the job done well at that!
You should be able to get a pretty high quality espresso machine for under $500 that is built to last, has many features, can brew your espresso quick and is overall a great investment.
We’ve pulled together multiple options from the most popular brands on the market, user reviews, pros, cons, all to help you find the best espresso machine under $500. Happy shopping!
How to Pick the Best Machine?
Picking the best espresso machine for your needs depends on a number of different factors. Some are:
How often do you drink coffee?
If you drink coffee and espresso daily, you may want to splurge on a nicer espresso machine. You may also not mind one that is larger and takes up more counter space because you use it all of the time. If you will rarely be making espresso, you may want to invest less money or buy one that is smaller so that you can take it out or put it away on an as-needed basis.
How long do you have to prepare coffee?
Different espresso machines take different times to have a shot of espresso pulled. Some have it done almost immediately (super automatic espresso machines) where others take much longer (semi automatic or even manual machines). If you need to make espresso and quickly run out the door, consider getting a super automatic machine that does everything for you in a timely manner.
Coffee maker or espresso machine?
If you want to make a large pot of coffee and sip on it throughout the day, or prepare caffeine for a large number of people, a coffee maker may be the way to go. If you’re okay with pulling shots of espresso one at a time, and don’t mind preparing each shot, an espresso machine may be the way to go.
How much can you afford to spend?
Espresso machines range from $100 to $3,000+, so pick one in the price range that suits your needs! You can find a pretty good espresso machine for under $500, but it may not be highly customizable and may not have coffee shop quality espresso, but that’s okay for most people. If you’re not a coffee fanatic, a cheaper machine will probably work for you just fine.
What Are The Top 5 Espresso Machines Under $500?
1. Gaggia Brera Superautomatic Espresso Machine
The Gaggia Brera Superautomatic Espresso Machine is an elegant brushed stainless steel with a compact design that looks great on any counter top. Even though it is small and compact it is not lacking in features. This espresso machine will grind your beans on demand from coarse to fine and also features a ground coffee department if you want to very it up a bit without removing your beans. This machine is self-cleaning to give you a sanitary shot of espresso every time.
Pros
- Water filter (Britta Filter compatible)
- Automatic cleaning: guaranteed a perfect, hygenic espresso daily
- Durable ceramic grinder: Because a metal grinder can burn the beans while grinding
- Standby mode
- Pre-brewing: to ensure grounds are most before actual brewing process
- Ground coffee department: brew a different type of coffee without removing the original beans
- Automatic standby mode: allows for energy savings
- Milk frother
- Digital display
- Coffee potency feature: decide how strong you want your espresso
- Long brew option: allows you to have a full cup of coffee rather than a shot of espresso
Cons
- Works with capsules / pods
Product Photos
Gaggia Brera Espresso Machine Reviews
Nice espresso machine. Gaggia is a superb brand, it does what is should. Bought 8 of them for Christmas presents for our clients.
Easy to use and good looking. The machine looks sturdy and I’ve used it for 2 years without any problems. The compact size just fit our home… I love it!
2. SAECO X-Small Automatic Espresso Machine with Built-In Grinder
The SAECO X-Small Automatic Espresso Machine is great quality for the price point. It allows you to grind your own beans within the machine which is a must-have for many coffee fanatics, it has a ceramic grinder so that it won’t burn the beans, has a milk frother, multiple settings to get your perfect brew & more. You can also pull two shots at once.
Pros
- Ceramic burr grinder: important as metal grinders can burn the beans
- Energy-saving mode: automatic standby after one hour
- Volumetrics controls: set your perfect water volume
- Auto-cleaning: have a hygienic cup of coffee every time
- Auto shut off: no overflowing coffee
Cons
- Cup warmer
- Water filter
- No pre-ground coffee
- Not good for oily beans
- Pre-brewing
- Digital display
- Doesn’t work with capsules / pods
Product Photos
SAECO X-Small Automatic Espresso Machine Reviews
Great little machine. I trusted the Phillips Saeco brand because we have a full sized unit at work that has been used seven days a week for over three years and is still going strong.
The Saeco x-small automatic espresso machine makes great espresso and lattes. I am able to adjust the grind to how I like it -incredibly fine- and control the amount of froth easily. Actually, this machine is simple, really simple to use for an amazing cup of espresso.
3. DeLonghi EN670.B Nespresso Lattissima Single-Serve Espresso Maker
DeLonghi constantly products espresso machines with high user reviews and the DeLonghi EN670.B Nespresso Lattissima Single-Serve Espresso Maker one is no different. This machine is great if you are a frequent latte and cappuccino drinker having two coffee and milk options. While this works great with Nespresso capsules, it is not the machine for you if you wish to grind your own coffee beans.
Pros
- Double broiler system: no waiting between preparing espresso and cappuccino
- Hot milk system: machine will automatically froth your milk
- 2 coffee and 2 milk selections
- Removable drip tray
- Cup warmer
- Works with Nespresso capsules
- Illuminated buttons
- Can accommodate latte-sized cups
Pros
- Water filter
- Auto cleaning
- Coffee grinder
- Pre-brewing
- Digital display
- Long brew option: allows you to have a full cup of coffee
- Standby mode
- Espresso potency options
- Double serve option
DeLonghi EN670.B Nespresso Lattissima Reviews
My household is composed of coffee drinkers… lattes to be exact. We’re talking about 8-10 servings per day. So this machine has had some serious usage over the past four years of ownership. I give it a five star rating just because I haven’t had to buy another one. This is my third machine, the other two failed within 18 months to two years, but I don’t recall the brand or models.
We just got this machine over the holidays and have been more than impressed. In fact, we’re down-right addicted to it. It truly is very easy to use and makes great espressos, lattes and cappuccinos (kudos to Nespresso for excellent pod quality).
4. Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker
The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is a nice, compact little unit that is fairly versatile. It has programmable buttons for both espresso and lungo, is compatible with larger cups and can have your brew ready in just 30 seconds. It has backlit buttons, an water level detector and even can store your power cord. With this machine you do not have the option to grind your own coffee beans but you get the convenience of using Nespresso espresso pods.
Pros
- Works with Nespresso capsules
- Can accommodate latte-sized cups
- Auto power-off
- Water level detection
- Used capsule container
Cons
- Water filter
- Auto cleaning
- Coffee grinder
- Pre-brewing
- Digital display
- Espresso potency options
- Double serve option
- Cup warmer
- User pre-ground coffee
Product Photos
Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker Reviews
I loved this Nespresso so much that we now have two. It’s easy to use, and the coffee is delicious. Overtime the machine started to brew a little loudly but the quality of the coffee remains the same.
Bought this to make espresso coffee. Makes very nice espresso, with many selections of coffee. Makes very nice Latte’s using the espresso capsules, with foamed milk. The unit does drip after making coffee, but I place a small cup under the dispenser so it’s not that big of a problem.
5. Cuisinart EM-600 Buona Tazza Superautomatic Single Serve Espresso Caffe Latte Cappuccino Machine
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The Cuisinart EM-600 Buona Tazza Superautomatic is great for anyone that wants a “hands-free, barista-quality cappuccino or latte”. This is for use wity illy capsules and can hold up to 10 capsules at a time. It has 8 LED controls for single or double espresso, manual flavor strength, one-touch latte or cappuccino and hot/hotter temperature settings for people that don’t like things simply warmish! This espresso machine has a 22-ounce milk container which can be used to make up to 6 cappuccinos – great for serving a small group.
Pros
- Works with illy capsules
- Can accommodate latte-sized cups
- 19 bars of pressure
- 22 ounce milk container
- Cup warming plate
- Auto shut off mode
- Used capsule container
- Removable water reservoir
ons
- Not for use with your own coffee grounds
- No coffee grinder
- No Digital display
- No auto cleaning
Cuisinart Buona Tazza Espresso Machine Reviews
The Buona Tazza EM-600 just came out in Dec of 2014 so the reviews that are posted from earlier in 2014 are on the old Cuisinart machine The EM-500 that is not being made any longer. The new machine is fantastic!!!! Love both the espresso and drip coffee it makes and the frother make a perfect Italian style Cappuccino. Great partnership between Cuisinart and illy.
I bought this machine from Bloomingdale’s and absolutely love it! I’m obsessed with illy coffee and so thrilled to finally brew in this format in my kitchen. I have had several espresso parties since receiving the machine and love being able to make 6 milk based drinks without refilling the reservoir!