There can be no compromise on the quality of espresso and the same goes for the espresso machine. Buying a cheap espresso machine is never a good idea and if you are looking for the best espresso machine under 500, then you are on the right track because this is the ideal price to get a high-quality, robust, and barista-grade machine.
I strongly believe that a good espresso machine doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg and there are many affordable options available if one takes some time to research – which I have done for you. After hours of reviewing the desirable features to deliver high-quality beverages along with a space-saving design, I have shortlisted the top 9 best espresso machines under 500. Read on to find which is best suited to your espresso needs and to your kitchen in order for you to have a pleasant coffee-making experience.
Our Best Espresso Machines Under 500 In 2020
PRODUCT |
TYPE |
BEST FOR |
HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES |
 Breville Infuser |
Semi-automatic | Best Overall |
|
|
Semi-automatic | Best Quality |
|
 EspressoWorks All-in-one |
Semi-automatic | Best Budget Pick |
|
 De’Longhi EN520SL Lattissima Plus |
Semi-automatic | Best Single Serve |
|
1. Breville Infuser
Highlighted Features
- Digital temperature control
- Thermo-coil heating system
- Micro-foam milk texturing
- Flexible shot control
- Volumetric control
- Precise espresso extraction
Breville is a known brand in the coffee industry and the Infuser is an impressive machine that brings advanced technology for precise espresso extraction quickly. The machine has an aesthetically pleasing design that comes with a digital temperature control system along with thermo-coil heating, programmable volumes, and a high-pressure steam wand to give you a wonderful cup of coffee.
Design and durability: The Infuser comes with a high-quality stainless steel construction that offers durability for years to come. It also has a great design to complement your kitchen decor.
Function: What makes this machine the top contender is the optimal flavor extraction with its 15 bar pressure and pre-infusion technology. This technology introduces low pressure to gently expand the grounds before applying full pressure. It comes with programmable volume control to customize your preferences and a steam wand to give that perfect froth with its microfoam texture to your cappuccinos and lattes.
Another impressive thing about the machine is its temperature control and the quick-heating system with its thermocoil technology. The auto-purge system adjusts the temperature of water and milk and cools down the boiler after use to ensure optimal temperature for espresso extraction. It also has a pressure gauge to let you know whether the espresso is over or under-extracted.
The infuser makes it easy to enhance your home brewing experience with its dual water filters, single wall filter, auto-stop function, coffee scoop, and milk jug.
Cleaning and maintenance: You will not have to worry about when to clean this machine as the ‘clean me’ alert will let you know when the cleaning is due. The removable drip tray is divided into wet and dry spills and gives an ‘empty me’ indicator when full. Even the water tank is removable and comes with a replaceable water filter option to reduce scaling.
Pros
- Durable structure
- Programmable
- Quick heat-up time
- Easy cleaning
- Removable water tank
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- Longevity issues
2. Delonghi Dedica EC680M
Highlighted Features
- Barista-grade beverages
- Thermoblock technology
- Manual frother
- Compact design
- Automatic flow stop
De’Longhi EC680M makes for a barista-quality beverage in the comfort of your home. It comes with a manual frother to add creamy foam to your textured drinks. It is a semi-automatic machine that makes you quality drinks and has a compact build to fit your kitchen at an affordable price.
Design and durability: The machine has a narrow footprint and comes in a compact design that takes up only 6 inches of space to fit on your kitchen countertop. It also ranks high on the durability scale with its sturdy stainless steel construction.
Function: Whether you want a single shot or a double one, this machine can come in handy to pull high-quality espresso every time with its 15-bar pressure. Its thermoblock heating system is ideal to reach the desired temperature in a quick time. Its adjustable control and automatic flow stop makes it very easy to use.
If you are a fan of textured drinks, the manual frother can make rich, creamy foam to top off your drinks and customize it accordingly. And the bonus point is you can even have bigger cups of coffee if you wish, owing to this machine’s adjustable cup size.
Cleaning and maintenance: The automatic flow stop makes for a mess-free experience. However, the nozzle and the push button for the steam knob require effort and time in terms of cleaning to prevent clogging and to make for a smooth operation.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Manual cappuccino system
- Easy to use
- Efficient temperature control
- Quick brew time
- Removable water tank
Cons
- The power button may get stuck
- May leak if the water tank is not fixed properly
- Complaints of malfunction
3. EspressoWorks All-In-One
Highlighted Features
- 15-bar Thermoblock machine
- Built-in steamer
- LED indicators
- Plug-in bean grinder
- Stainless steel filter
- Include portafilter
- Measuring spoon + tamper
This machine is a great option to give you authentic Italian espresso and flavorful milk-based drinks at an affordable price. It not only makes for flavorful beverages but also comes with a plug-in grinder to grind and brew with ease. It is indeed a great choice to consider if you are looking for ease, accessibility, and quality taste on a budget.
Design and durability: The machine is made of two materials- stainless steel and BPA-free plastic. It might not be best for commercial use but it can be a great choice for homes or small offices. It comes with a stainless steel portafilter, shot baskets, and frothing cup. The water tank and drip tray, however, are made of BPA-free plastic.
On the design front, it offers great accessibility with its easy-view water window and built-in handle for convenient removal and refilling. The steam wand is also built-in, making for easy operation.
Function: Making high-quality espresso, Americano, Machiatto, and lattes at home is not difficult with this all-in-one espresso and cappuccino machine. The 19-bar pressure allows for making single or double shot espresso with a high-quality filter while the built-in steam wand gives you the flexibility to customize your drinks. The Thermoblock heating system ensures that you don’t run out of time by providing a quick heat up for the perfect brew.
What I loved about this machine is the 120V plug-in grinder that allows you to have freshly-ground coffee whenever you want. Besides, it has all the accessories including a portafilter, frothing cup, porcelain cups, measuring spoon, and tamper which means you don’t have to spend extra money in order to add to your brewing experience.
Cleaning and maintenance: The machine comes with a removable water tank and drip tray which are both easy to clean.
Pros
- Removable drip tray
- Removable water tank with handle
- Milk frothing cup
- Measuring spoon + tamper
- One-touch operation
- Front-view water tank
Cons
- Blade grinder doesn’t produce consistent grinds
- A bit noisy
4. De’Longhi EN520SL Lattissima Plus
Highlighted Features
- 19-bar pump pressure
- Smart coffee maker
- Thermoblock technology
- Auto-off timer
- Programmable
- Rinsing function
Nespresso Lattissima+ automates your brewing experience with its innovative technology and intuitive design. It is one of the best Nespresso pod machines to make delicious drinks and is easy to use and clean. Also, It can be programmed to give you your preferred cup of brew every time.
Design and durability: The machine has a small footprint and comes in an attractive and compact design to fit your home kitchen. However, the plastic construction is a bit problematic in this one and may not be as sturdy as stainless steel.
Function: A 19-bar pressure makes for a barista-grade, single cup of coffee each time. This smart coffee maker brings customization and versatility to your drinking choices and comes with an adjustable drip tray to fit larger cups. A quick brew is not a problem, thanks to the Thermoblock technology that makes for optimal brewing temperature in less time.
Since it is programmable, you can personalize your drinks to enjoy your preferred taste over and over again. Despite its small water tank, it is an energy-efficient option that comes with milk frothing technology to give the desired foam to your drinks at home.
Cleaning and maintenance: The machine is quite intuitive and comes with a descaling alert and rinsing function. The sliding drip tray is also easy to clean.
Pros
- Easy one-touch operation
- Easy to clean
- Sliding drip tray
- Removable milk container
- Makes different types of coffee
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Slow coffee flow
- Poor quality of milk frother
- Heavy
5. Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temp Pro
Highlighted Features
- Thermo-coil heating system
- Large water tank
- Manual shot volume control
- Dual-wall filter basket
- Steam wand
- PID temperature control
- Precise espresso extraction
Breville duo temp makes for an impressive machine that comes with an Italian style pump, thermo-coil heating, auto-purge for optimal extraction, and a steam wand to make your favorite drinks. The compact machine is simple to use, easy to clean and maintain, and delivers a great coffee-making experience at home.
Design and durability: The machine has a stainless steel body so you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged any time soon. It also looks very pleasing and attractive to the eye and comes with easy controls. The only downside is that it is quite heavy to move.
Function: The machine comes with high technology and a large water tank to save you the trouble of refilling again and again. The digital temperature control allows for reaching the optimal temperature quickly with the thermo-coil that makes for fast heat up. It gives you precise extraction with its 15-bar pump pressure and the steam wand will bring perfect froth to your favorite drinks.
The best part about this one is you have manual control over the volume of your shot, whether it is single or double.
Cleaning and maintenance: It is a low-maintenance machine that comes with reminders to clean it and to empty the drip tray when required.
Pros
- Makes rich, flavorful espresso
- Comes with maintenance indicators
- Auto-purge function
- Micro-foam milk texturing
- Efficient temperature control
- Comes with a water filter and holder, and a stainless steel milk container
Cons
- A bit noisy
- The drip tray fills up quickly
6. Flair Signature Espresso Maker
Highlighted Features
- Custom pressure gauge
- Stainless steel tamper
- 2-in-1 portafilter
- Detachable brewing head
- Durable construction
- Portable
There is indeed much to love about this manual espresso machine that comes in a sophisticated, portable design that is built to last for years to come. If you want a premium coffee experience, then Flair is the best espresso machine to give you full control over your shots.
Design and durability: Flair comes in an attractive design to bring aesthetic value to your kitchen space. A truly portable design that comes with a custom-fitted carrying case and detachable brewing head, it doesn’t require electricity to operate which makes it easy to use.
It also scores high points on durability because of its aluminum base, a stainless steel brewing head, and a copper-plated portafilter base.
Function: If you are a lover of manual espresso machines and want to master the art of handmade espresso, then Flair is the perfect choice to give you a premium coffee-making experience at home. Its pressure of 6-10 bars is ideal to extract the perfect quality shot in a quick time of 45 seconds. The pressure gauge will allow you to track and manage the pressure of your brew. It might not be an easy, one-touch solution to your needs but is best suited for those who like to have full control over the taste of their coffee.
Cleaning and maintenance: It might not be easy to use but is very easy to clean. The brew head is detachable and it is easy to separate the parts and rinse under water to maintain the quality of the machine.
Pros
- Provides control over espresso shots
- Easy to clean with removable parts
- Comes with a carrying case for portability
- 5-year warranty
- Pressure kit for advanced brewing
- Quality design
Cons
- Not easy to use
- The handle is hot to touch
- Only makes espresso
7. De’Longhi America EC685M Dedica Deluxe
Highlighted Features
- Slender 6’’ design
- Adjustable controls
- Adjustable frother
- Automatic flow stop
- Double drip tray
- Thermoblock heating
De’Longhi America is a compact machine that comes with a premium milk frother and a rapid cappuccino system to deliver several cups in a row at optimal temperature. It brings you the ease of adjusting cup size and quick brewing with its Thermoblock technology. The small machine is both easy to use and clean.
Design and durability: A small and compact design is what sets this machine apart from others. It’s sleek 6’-inch design makes it ideal to fit in small spaces and is pleasing to the eye. The stainless steel body is also rust-resistant and durable.
Function: If you are looking for a machine to make you cup after cup, then this small automatic machine can be ideal with its cappuccino system. Its 15-bar pressure with Thermoblock heating extracts the espresso at an optimal temperature to give it the perfect crema and barista-quality taste. You have the flexibility to make dual shots at a time while the adjustable milk frother allows for adding all the steam and foam you could want to your favorite drinks.
It is an easy to use the machine that comes with an energy-saving mode and a cup warmer.
Cleaning and maintenance: The automatic machine comes with a descaling alert and an anti-drip system that makes it very easy to clean and maintain for further use. Even the frother is detachable so you will never have to worry about the milk clogging the joints.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Makes multiple coffee drinks
- Makes dual shot
- Can fit taller cups
- Includes cup warmer, descaling alert
- Anti-drip system
Cons
- You cannot control the temperature
- Doesn’t come with a frothing jug
8. Gaggia Brera
Highlighted Features
- Pannarello wand
- User-friendly display
- Hopper and bypass doser
- High-quality design
- Rapid steam technology
- Programmable brewing
Gaggia Brera is a super-automatic machine that has an easy to operate front panel and can be programmed to give you aroma and control over your shot volume. It has a high-quality design and lets you customize not just your drinks but also the strength of your coffee with its optidose feature.
Design and durability: This machine comes in a stunning design that features clean lines and is easily accessible with its front-mounted panel, front-loading dreg drawer, and water tank. It has a safe construction and operation and is built with scratch-resistant stainless steel.
Function: A super-automatic machine is the easiest to use and the Gaggia Brera proves that. It is a programmable machine that allows you to choose the aroma, strength, and volume of your drinks based on your preference. Its optidose feature lets you customize the strength of your drinks ranging from light to strong. Whether you want a single shot or double shot, you can have it ready in 10 seconds with its rapid-steam technology for a quick heat up and robust brewing.
Another highlight of this machine is the pannarello wand that offers perfect frothing for your cappuccinos and lattes and can also double as a water dispenser for americanos and tea.
Cleaning and maintenance: The machine provides easy cleaning with its easy to reach dreg drawer and water tank. It comes with a step-by-step descaling guide and a removable brew head to provide for easy maintenance.
Pros
- Removable brew group
- Easy to maintain
- Customized drink options
- Easily accessible dreg drawer, water tank
- Easily accessible drip tray
- Fast heat up
Cons
- Small cup height
- Self-rinsing takes up a lot of water
9. Saeco HD8645/47 Vapore X-Small
Highlighted Features
- 5-step ceramic grinder
- Multiple beverage selection
- Manual milk frother
- Removable brew group
- Quick heat boiler
- Automatic cleaning cycle
Saeco Xsmall is another super-automatic espresso machine that is easy to use and comes with a simple and intuitive operation. This small machine is good enough to give you customizable beverages with its ceramic grinder and makes high-quality espresso and perfectly frothed cappuccinos and lattes.
Design and durability: This machine comes in an attractive black color and one-touch user interface. It has a compact and space-saving design but the construction is not that durable as the material of the body is plastic.
Function: It is super easy to operate with its one-touch user interface. It comes with a quick-heat boiler which means you don’t have to wait between your cups. The manual frother is perfect for making delicious milk-based coffee beverages with ease.
The best part about this is you can choose your customized grind size with its built-in ceramic grinder that comes with a 5-level setting. It also allows for customizing your favorite brews with its memo function.
Cleaning and maintenance: Cleaning is not a problem with its automatic cleaning cycle that cleans the coffee circuit with water after every use. The removable brew head also makes for effortless cleaning and maintenance.
Pros
- One-touch operation
- Space-saving design
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Customize grind size
- Fast brewing
Cons
- One shot at a time only
- Construction is not very durable
Things To Look For Before Buying!
Whether you are a beginner or an expert, making an ideal cup of espresso requires certain factors in a machine to ensure it delivers a rich and full flavour. If you want to have more control over your brewing options, then a manual one will do but if you want a quick espresso without doing much, then semi-automatic and automatic machines are best.
An espresso machine may enhance or ruin your coffee-making experience and if you want to up your home brewing game, then look for quality design and high efficiency along with affordability.
Following are the features that can be found in a quality product within the 500 limit:
- A durable construction
- Quick heating time
- High pressure
- Multiple beverage customization
- Precise espresso extraction
- Energy efficiency
- Compact design
Buying Guide
Conclusion
An espresso machine makes for a great investment and you should aim for striking the right balance between performance and affordability. I hope this list will help you save a lot of time and hassle to find the best-suited machine for your desired taste and fulfilling experience.