Most Recommended Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
Updated
Check out the semi-automatic espresso machines recommended the most by Coffee Experts here on Curated. Note, however, that we don't believe in "best of" lists at Curated – everyone has different needs and we believe in finding the best gear for you and not generally for the masses. Chat with a Coffee Expert here on Curated to get free, personalized recommendations on the best espresso machine for your needs.
BP
By Prosumer Espresso Machine ExpertsAndrea, Matthew, Bonica and others
The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is a top pick for those venturing into home espresso making. Its user-friendly features like multiple portafilters, quick heating system, and volumetric controls make it a great beginner machine. It's also compact, making it perfect for small kitchens. However, it's not ideal for serving multiple people or making several drinks back-to-back due to its single boiler.
by Curated experts Baylee (Charlie) Marrison, Janelle G., Blake Valley
Ideal for
- Beginners to home espresso making
- Users with limited kitchen space
- Users who prefer programmable espresso machines
- Users who do not have fresh ground beans
- Users who want high-quality espresso and steamed milk
Not ideal for
- Serving multiple people
- Making several drinks back-to-back
- Users who want a more substantial build quality
- Users who prefer traditional 58 mm portafilters
BM
The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a top choice for home baristas seeking cafe-quality espresso without breaking the bank. It's compact, easy to use, and heats up quickly. Its professional-sized fittings, powerful steam wand, and automatic milk frothing system deliver consistently great-tasting espresso and creamy milk foam. It's perfect for those who value control over their espresso process and are looking for a stylish, user-friendly machine.
by Curated experts Janelle G., Holly Bastin, David Boyer
Ideal for
- Home baristas seeking cafe-quality espresso
- Those looking for a budget-friendly and space-saving option
- Individuals who value control over their espresso process
- Those who prefer a stylish, user-friendly machine
- Coffee lovers who enjoy a quick and convenient espresso experience
Not ideal for
- Those seeking a high capacity machine for large gatherings or commercial use
- Those who want to make more than a couple of drinks back-to-back
The Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic machine that's perfect for those who want to optimize espresso taste and performance without the need for automated or fancy features. It has a built-in grinder, PID temperature control, and 30 grind settings for high quality and consistent espresso. It heats up in just 3 seconds, and its excellent steam wand makes it ideal for frothing milk. It's a great fit for households with mixed experience levels, offering a blend of automatic and manual features.
by Curated experts August Croft, Janelle G., David Boyer
Ideal for
- Those with limited counter space
- Those who want high quality and consistent espresso
- Those who want a machine that heats up quickly
- Those who want a semi-automatic machine with built-in grinder
- Households with mixed experience levels
Not ideal for
- Those who prefer fully automated machines
- Those who want a machine with a stepless grinder adjustment
- Those who want a machine with a sturdy tamper
- Those who prefer machines with standard size portafilters or standalone grinders
- Those who prefer machines with automated brewing process
PROGRESS
What’s your espresso-making experience?
Answer questions to receive personalized recommendations from an Expert.
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced baristas. Its built-in grinder, fast heat-up time, and easy-to-use steam wand make it a user-friendly option. The machine also offers a pressure gauge for optimal extraction and a large capacity, making it ideal for those who love hosting coffee parties. However, it may not be the best choice for those who don't have time for regular cleaning.
by Curated experts Savannah Howell, Janelle G., Mugen Wahl
Ideal for
- Beginners looking to develop their home barista skills
- Experienced baristas looking for a budget-friendly option
- Users who appreciate fast heat-up times and easy-to-use features
- Coffee lovers who need a machine with a large capacity
- Those who want control over a broad range of beans with 15 grinder settings
Not ideal for
- Individuals who don't have time for regular machine cleaning
The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine is a perfect blend of digital functionality and manual experience, making it an ideal choice for beginners in the espresso realm. It features a touch-screen control center that provides tutorials, maintenance operations, and multiple programs for enhanced control. The machine stands out with its advanced controls for manual operation integration, allowing users to get creative. It also features Thermojet technology, which enables the machine to be used just 3 seconds after turning it on.
by Curated experts Brooke Burnett, Caleb Jones, Adam L.
Ideal for
- Beginners in the espresso realm
- Users who appreciate digital functionality
- Users who want to experiment with manual operation
- Users who value quick heat time
- Users who enjoy a variety of espresso drinks
Not ideal for
- Users seeking a more hands-on espresso making experience
- Users who struggle with tech for changing grind settings
- Users who find the cleaning process too involved
De'Longhi 15 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System
$129.95
$149.95
13% off
4.33(3)
The De'Longhi 15 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine is perfect for home baristas eager to craft their own espresso shots. It's quick to heat up and recover, and comes with pressurized portafilters that are forgiving for beginners. It's compatible with pre-ground espresso beans, burr grinder beans, and ESE pods for easy dosing and clean-up. The cup warmer, which picks up heat from the group head, is a standout feature. However, its steam wand and temperature stability may not meet the needs of more experienced baristas.
by Curated experts David Boyer, Matthew W., Eric T
Ideal for
- Home baristas
- Beginners in espresso making
- Users looking for quick heat-up and recovery
- Users preferring easy dosing and clean-up
- Users who value a cup warmer feature
Not ideal for
- Users seeking a high-quality steam wand
- Users requiring steady temperature control
The Rancilio Silvia M Espresso Machine is a perfect choice for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the process of preparing their own espresso. This semi-automatic machine is known for its durability, high-quality construction, and performance over time. It's a great option for those wanting to learn how to tune and dial their machines in and customize their coffees. Plus, it's a machine that will grow with you, with a huge community of Rancilio owners who can help you modify and upgrade it over the years.
by Curated experts Holly Bastin, Janelle G., Fatimah H
Ideal for
- Coffee enthusiasts who enjoy preparing their own espresso
- Those wanting to learn how to tune and dial their machines
- Those looking for a durable, high-quality construction
- Those looking for a machine that can grow with them
- Those who want a high-quality Italian build with the ability to upgrade/tinker
Not ideal for
- Those who need to steam and pour shots simultaneously
- Those who prefer a less manual machine
- Those who need a quick heat-up and switch from espresso to steaming
The De'Longhi Stilosa 15 Bar Pump Manual Espresso Machine is a budget-friendly, compact, and stylish addition to any kitchen. Ideal for beginners and those with a limited budget, it allows for customization and experimentation with brewing techniques. It features a 15 bar pump pressure for rich espresso shots, a manual control, and a milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes. However, it may not be suitable for those with a high-quality grinder or those seeking a more manual machine.
by Curated experts Westin H., Caleb Jones, David Boyer
Ideal for
- Beginners in espresso-making
- Those with a limited budget
- Users of budget coffee grinders or pre-ground coffee
- Those who value compact and stylish kitchen appliances
- Those who enjoy experimenting with brewing techniques
Not ideal for
- Those with a high-quality grinder
- Those seeking a more manual machine
- Those who require consistent temperature control
- Those who prefer a quiet operation
The Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic espresso machine that is perfect for those who want to delve into the world of espresso making without the hassle. It's equipped with a built-in grinder and an automatic tamping function, making it ideal for beginners. The machine's smart technology calibrates and adjusts the grind setting based on your first drink, ensuring consistent results. It also features a steam wand for milk frothing, allowing users to practice and perfect their latte art skills. However, it's not ideal for those who want more control over their espresso or don't want to grind their own beans.
by Curated experts Aysia M, Shelby Lewis, Hannah Ramsey
Ideal for
- Beginners in espresso making
- Those who want a semi-automatic machine with built-in grinder
- Users who prefer automatic tamping
- Individuals who want to practice latte art
- Those who appreciate smart technology for consistent results
Not ideal for
- Those who want more control over their espresso
- Individuals who don't want to grind their own beans
- Users who are sensitive to temperature fluctuations affecting their shot
De'Longhi Dedica Arte Espresso Machine
$249.95
$299.95
17% off
The De'Longhi Dedica Arte Espresso Machine is perfect for the home barista who loves to experiment with espresso shots and milk steaming. Its compact, sleek design makes it a stylish addition to any kitchen. Despite its slow heating time and small water tank, it's a hit for those who appreciate high-quality espresso and the versatility to make a variety of espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
by Curated experts Westin H., Ella Schlange
Ideal for
- Home baristas who enjoy experimenting with espresso shots and milk steaming
- Individuals who appreciate a compact and sleek design
- Users who value ease of use and cleaning
- Espresso lovers who enjoy a variety of espresso-based drinks
- Those who already own a decent burr grinder and are looking for a semi-automatic machine
Not ideal for
- Those who require a quick heating time
- Users who need a large water tank
- Individuals who require extensive milk frothing capacity
Other lists to consider
Curated experts can help
Have a question about the article you just read or want personal recommendations? Connect with a Curated expert and get free recommendations for whatever you’re looking for!Result Summary
- Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
- Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
- Breville the Barista Pro Espresso Machine
- Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Breville the Barista Touch Espresso Machine
- De'Longhi 15 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System
- Rancilio Silvia M Espresso Machine
- De'Longhi Stilosa 15 Bar Pump Manual Espresso Machine
- Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine
- De'Longhi Dedica Arte Espresso Machine
Which Prosumer Espresso Machine product is right for you?
Get free recommendations from a certified expert. Take a short quiz to get started!