TL;DR: Choosing an espresso machine with a built-in grinder is a great choice for new home baristas as well as coffee enthusiasts seeking an all-in-one machine. These appliances afford their users a smaller footprint in any kitchen, programmable espresso drink options, and semi-automatic to super-automatic mechanics!

When I first began shopping for coffee gear for my home barista setup, I knew I’d be looking at some of the best espresso machines with grinders because I wanted the perfect blend of automatic and manual features for my own home. For many reasons, someone might want an espresso machine with a grinder built into it. I, for one, wanted one less appliance to worry about in my compact kitchen– perhaps you feel the same!

Regardless of why you’re searching for an espresso machine with a grinder component, I’m here to help you narrow down your list of options. As a former barista, both in high-volume and intimate coffee shop settings, I know what you should be looking for when it comes to espresso machines that fit the bill. And if you have questions along the way, feel free to reach out to any of our Curated Espresso Experts.

Today, I’ll go over everything you should consider before purchasing your perfect espresso machine, as well as seven comprehensive options to consider. Let’s dive in.

Why Choose an Espresso Machine with a Built-In Grinder?

It felt taboo, at first, to purchase an espresso machine with a grinder built into it. This personal insecurity largely stemmed from my time as a professional barista. Having two separate appliances meant you were as serious about your home coffee options as your third wave cafe barista is!

But, once I began researching espresso machines with grinders, I knew my insecurities were misplaced. There are plenty of espresso machines capable of grinding coffee beans and brewing in one without sacrificing professional quality!

But why might you want to choose an espresso machine with your grinder already taken care of? Let’s address some of these concerns now.

It’s easier to get started as a budding home barista

When I purchased my espresso machine, I knew I didn’t want to mess with a separate grinder for simplicity’s sake. My partner had zero barista experience at the time of our purchase, which made us more inclined to choose an espresso machine with a grinder instead of two separate options.

Simplicity is often an important factor when you choose something all in one, like some espresso machines on this list. If you're a novice barista or looking to upgrade the morning brew routine in your household, you may find that having your grinder and espresso machine all in one place helps you achieve that perfect shot!

Having two machines in one saves counter space

As someone who used to brew moka pot coffee in a 19-foot-long travel trailer while camping around the country, I hesitated when it came time to purchase an espresso machine. While I live in a proper stick-and-brick home now with plenty of counter space, my minimalist instincts kicked in when shopping for espresso machines and coffee accessories!

I knew I wanted a built-in grinder option simply to save on space in my kitchen. Many of the espresso machines you’ll see today afford home baristas a compact footprint for their countertops. After my time living in less than 200 square feet, I learned the hard way just how important it is to choose your appliances with size in mind!

Automation makes things simpler

While not every espresso machine on this list is automatic, many of them are. As a former barista, I opted for a machine that afforded me some manual tasks, such as choosing my grind settings and utilizing a portafilter, tamper, and milk steamer. But many espresso machines with grinders are fully automatic, making things even simpler, should that be your preference.

Super-automatic espresso machines have a very hands-off quality to them, something that may appeal to the busy coffee enthusiast. Not only will these machines produce coffee grounds, but they will also extract your espresso and formulate milk-based drinks based on your taste! It all depends on how many features you want to automate.

Many options include a milk frother, too

If you’re like me and still want some hands-on aspects for your morning cup, the good news is that many espresso machines with grinders also have milk drink options. Some have included milk frothers; others have proper steam wands. While we could go into the details surrounding single boiler versus dual boiler machines or varied temperature controls, most espresso machines with grinders try to aim for simplicity over specificity.

If you know you want to enjoy coffee drinks with milk at home (like lattes, the perfect cappuccino, and more), finding an espresso machine that utilizes milk frothers or steam wands is a must. However, you can also choose a super-automatic machine and let it work wonders with milk, foam, and more!

7 of the Best Espresso Machines with Grinders

We’ve only just scratched the surface when it comes to what you should think about before purchasing coffee makers with built-in grinders. Let’s compare seven different options to help make your decision even easier!

Hassle-Free: Terra Kaffe TK-01 Espresso Machine

If you’re seeking something hands-off, check out the Terra Kaffe TK-01, a super-automatic espresso machine under $900. While this espresso machine has preset, cafe-quality drinks built into its programming, the volumetric controls afford you the option to adjust any drink preset at the touch of a button.

The hopper holds up to 12 ounces of coffee beans, and the quality of 19 bars of pressure ensures your freshly dosed coffee produces optimum crema, mouthfeel, and flavor. You can make as many adjustments as you see fit or let this intelligent espresso machine do its thing. Plus, the sleek design is eye-catching without taking up too much space!

Compact Counter Addition: De'Longhi Dinamica Plus

Speaking of not taking up too much space, the De'Longhi Dinamica Plus is a narrow countertop addition to any home barista setup. Fully automatic and designed for the more upscale coffee consumer, the Dinamica Plus includes 16 one-touch recipes. But don't worry– you can further customize the settings to craft your perfect morning cup.

Milk drinks, quality espresso drinks, and iced drinks are all possible with this machine. The built-in burr grinder has 13 settings as well as a bypass for decaf roast. And the included milk frother is dishwasher safe and fantastic for plant-based milk. While on the higher end of most budgets and offering a slightly steep learning curve, the longevity of this espresso machine is unmatched.

Expert’s Pick: Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine

While I’m not a barista anymore, I knew I wanted some hands-on creativity in my home espresso machine. Nothing beats tamping your freshly ground shot of espresso and steaming your own milk if you’re up for the challenge, which is why the Breville Barista Pro was a no-brainer for me to purchase (and I definitely chose the sleek stainless steel model).

This espresso machine is at the perfect price point for those of you hoping to learn how to dial in shots. Heating up in three seconds, the Breville Barista Pro and water reservoir are ready as soon as you’re awake in the morning. And the built-in grinder has an auto-dose function. You can switch from a single shot to a double shot of fresh, aromatic espresso at the touch of a button!

Budget-Friendly: Espressione Concierge Fully Automatic Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine

Under $700, the Espressione Concierge is a fantastic choice for the budget-conscious espresso lover seeking convenience. Even at this price point, the Espressione Concierge doesn’t skimp on features or efficiency. A fully automatic machine, this slim appliance has a convenient LED display that allows you to choose popular coffee drinks with a simple tap.

While I wouldn’t recommend the Espressione Concierge to baristas looking for more drink customization or control, this is truly an all-in-one machine. It’s ideal for pod coffee lovers looking to upgrade or anyone looking for a sophisticated countertop machine. Plus, you can learn how to steam milk on this machine using the included steam wand!

Cold Brew Option: De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

The price and features of the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo make it a standout on this list of faves. Not only is this espresso machine under $800, but it can also make any type of hot or iced coffee drink imaginable– including cold brew. De’Longhi’s proprietary Cold Extraction Technology ensures you have a cup of cold brew in less than five minutes!

While the display may look overwhelming at first, this espresso machine is comprehensive and easy to use once you get the hang of it. There are four included recipes, three temperature settings, and an included barista toolkit with a tamper mat, filter baskets, and more. You can steam your own milk for any drink and consistency, then dishwash every accessory to boot, including the drip tray!

Versatile and Simple: Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine

Similar to the Breville Barista Pro, the Breville Barista Touch affords home coffee enthusiasts a sleek machine that’s equal parts automatic and hands-on. Slightly more expensive compared to the Barista Pro because of its gorgeous LED screen, the Barista Touch includes all of the features of the Barista Pro but with one distinction. There are built-in recipes for the more novice barista!

While these recipes are easily selectable, they are equally customizable. The built-in grinder has 30 different settings, making it easy to adjust your grind size. And Breville ensures a silky espresso shot with pre-infusion technology. While the steam wand may need a thorough cleaning afterward, you can even practice your latte art with this precise machine!

Most Feature-Packed: De'Longhi Eletta Explore Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

I’ll be honest– I’m a bit jealous of anyone who opts for the De'Longhi Eletta Explore for their home barista setup. This fully automatic machine can do it all, from americanos to cold brew to everything in between. While it’s the most expensive option on this list, you likely won’t find anything as customizable, specific, and easy to use as this espresso machine!

There are over 50 preprogrammed recipes included in the Eletta Explore. And, if those aren’t to your specifications, you can program your own recipes using De’Longhi’s Bean Adapt Technology. By using your smartphone, you can cater your individual cups depending on bean roast, temperature, milk texture, and so much more!

Talk to Us About the Best Espresso Machines with Grinders

Given just how many espresso makers there are, both with or without grinders, it’s only natural to feel uncertain about your perfect fit. ​​If you’re still conflicted about what’s right for your lifestyle, reach out to one of our Curated Coffee & Espresso Experts for further insight today!