Best Espresso Machine Under $200: Top picks

By Shabbir
Last update:

While many people believe espresso machines are expensive, they really don’t have to be. In fact, there are some high quality and caliber espresso machines that are contenders for the best espresso machine under $200.

There is a reason why people love espresso. It not only is a strong alternative to a cup of coffee, but it is rich, creamy and the true drink of a coffee-lover.

If you are new to espresso, espresso machines, or seeking a simple espresso machine without too many bells and whistles, you should seriously consider this list.

On the other end of the spectrum, you have super automatic espresso machines, which do EVERYTHING!

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To make things easier for you, we've already tested and compared the best products available to narrow the field down to these top choices.

QUICK OVERVIEW: BEST ESPRESSO MACHINE UNDER $200

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
cfimvtbl-table__imageOur Top PickOur Top PickDELONGHI EC702 15-BAR PUMP ESPRESSO MAKER
  • This machine functions based off of a pump
  • This is a rapid-shot machine
  • Perfect feature for the 44 ounce and 1.3 liter water tank
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cfimvtbl-table__imageMR. COFFEE CAFE BARISTA ESPRESSO MAKER
  • One touch control panel
  • Automatic milk frother
  • Adjustable cup tray
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cfimvtbl-table__imageNESPRESSO C60 PIXIE ESPRESSO MACHINE
  • This machine is based off of capsules
  • Thermoblock technology
  • Comes with a folding dip tray
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cfimvtbl-table__imageBREVILLE CAFE ROMA
  • Built from stainless steel
  • Easy-to-clean features
  • 15-bar thermoblock pump
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cfimvtbl-table__imageCAPRESSO EC100
  • Very easy-to-see indicators lights
  • 46-ounce removable water container
  • Built from high-quality materials
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cfimvtbl-table__imageARIETE CAFE PRESTIGE
  • One of the most compact machines in the industry
  • Heavy-duty stainless steel
  • With a removable 2 quarter water tank
VIEW ON AMAZON →

10 Best Espresso Machines Under $200

1. DeLonghi EC702 15-Bar Pump Espresso Maker

If you are new to espresso, you should know that DeLonghi is one of the most trusted and oldest brands out there. In fact, they represent quality across all budgets for all users.

What of the most notable features from this beast is its stainless steel frame which is quite unlike other espresso maker models in this bracket. As you may notice, many of the other machines under $200 are made from plastic.

With a 15-bar pump in its gut, this machine produces some of the highest quality espresso shots topped with a thick crema.

Unlike other machines in this bracket, the DeLonghi 15-Bar Pump Espresso Maker automatically self-primes, a welcome feature in budget espresso machines.

The machine comes built with a manual frother that is perfect for steaming or frothing your own milk. That means you can use this machine to make cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, cortados, and other milky espresso beverages.

You can pull a single or double shot. This machine is extremely easy-to-use. You will not be required to do most of the work, like manual espresso machines.

In fact, during the extraction process, the machine knows exactly when to stop so you can have the perfect amount(1.5 ounces per shot) every single time.

The temperature never changes during the brewing of multiple cups of espresso. So, if you are having a party, let your guests know there is no waiting in between each shot. This is a rapid-shot machine, thanks to the 44 ounce water tank!

The fan-favorite feature of this machine is how easy it is to clean. With minimal messes and simple removable pieces, your clean up time will be cut in half!

Verdict

Considering its wallet-friendly price and the quality of espresso it produces, after reviewing all these espresso machines, we have no qualms recommending the DeLonghi as the best espresso machine under $200.

Read the full review here

2. Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso Maker and Cappuccino Maker

Everyone has heard of the famous brand, Mr. Coffee. There is a reason why this brand made this list. It’s an awesome home espresso machine, plain and spimple.

Overall, the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is very easy to use and it’s perfect for getting one for your home if it’s your first foray into espresso.

The One Touch Control Panel is the winning feature here. While most espresso makers will have you turn knobs and sliders to dial in your shot, that can be quite overwhelming for new users.

The Mr Coffee Cafe Barista takes all the guesswork out of making an espresso and you can just use the one-touch buttons to make great coffee right away.

The three buttons allow you to make a single shot espresso, a double shot espresso, a cappuccino, a latte, or just some milk foam.

Speaking of milk foam, the automatic milk frother is another feature that is a major benefit of having. Instead of using manual levers and wands, this machine will do all the work for you and develop the creamiest and most delicious froths in this budget range.

If you are planning to make espresso in different size cups, don’t worry. This machine has you covered with an adjustable cup tray.

The entire machine is relatively easy to clean. With a removable water tank and drip catcher, which is also removable, the user will be rarely cleaning up any messes.

Verdict

The Mr Coffee Cafe Barista is one of our favorite espresso makers from all the machines that we’ve reviewed. It’s the espresso machine that I’ve had for the last 4 years and it’s been working like a powerhouse ever since.

The Mr Coffee is a no-brainer on our picks of the best espresso machine under $200.

3. Nespresso C60 Pixie Espresso Machine

Another amazing brand in the espresso machine industry is Nespresso. The truth is, you can never go wrong when you buy a Nespresso.

This is especially true for the beautiful and simple Pixie by Nespresso, which is a top choice for the best espresso machine in this budget.

With a slightly retro and sleek compact look, this machine is bound to compliment any kitchen it is placed in. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the striking features of this espresso machine.

The Nespresso Pixie is a pod-based espresso maker, which means you don’t need to use your own espresso powder: instead, you just pop a pod into the machine, push a button, and let it do it’s thing.

This compact brewing unit features thermoblock technology, which induces intense preheating times of under 30 seconds.

This machine comes with a folding dip tray, which gives you control over the different types and cup sizes you wish to make.

The water chamber in the back is backlit with an LED. With water level indicators, you will always be informed as to when it’s time to refill the water basin.

This espresso maker comes prepared with different programmable buttons for brewing single shot, double shot espresso, and lungo.

To produce the high quality shots, this machine has an impressive pump capable of 19 bars of pressure.

Verdict

The Nespresso Pixie is an impressive machine you can get for less than $200. It’s for you if you want a quick fix of delicious espresso and don’t want to fiddle with ground coffee or tamping your shot. However, the cost of pods can add up, so keep that in mind!

Read the full review here.

4. Breville Cafe Roma Espresso maker

Breville has built a massive reputation in the industry as one of the greatest. If you have the opportunity to buy a Breville machine, do it.

You can never go wrong with one of these beasts. Built with an aesthetically pleasing design, this machine has become a fan-favorite and a kitchen favorite. Check out the amazing list of features that has opened the wallets of many espresso lovers.

Built from stainless steel, the Breville Cafe Roma is made to last for several years. With an easy-to-clean and low maintenance design, you will glad you bought this machine.

One brilliant feature is the 15 bar thermoblock pump. This is the perfect feature and pressure amount for the perfect high-quality barista-style espresso shot.

With a dual-wall filter system, this machine produces some of the best crema in the industry. Include this feature with a froth enhancer and a cup-warming plate, can you go wrong?

Verdict

The Breville Cafe Roma is quite similar to the DeLonghi ECP that you saw above. Essentially, they’re the same machine – it’s kind of a matter of brand loyalty as to which espresso machine you’ll choose. We’ve reviewed both and we’re fans of both of them, since all espresso is good!

Read the full review here

5. Capresso EC100 Espresso Machine

Another great sub-$200 espresso maker is the Capresso Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine. This company promises that each shot is quick, easy and tastier than ever.

With the simple and sleek design, it is easy for anyone to make a delicious cup of espresso and even easier for steaming and frothing milk. Whether you are seeking espresso, a latte or even a cappuccino, don’t fret, Capresso is here.

Check out this list of more-than-impressive features:-

The machine is built from high-quality materials. With a stainless steel lined ThermoBlock, your espresso shots will be the perfect temperature every single time.

With a 46-ounce removable water container, you will not have to refill this constantly, like many other espresso machines in this budget.

Very easy-to-see indicators lights to signal when the it is time to extract or steam the milk. This is extremely beneficial for the user. For maximum accuracy, it is essential to follow these lights.

Unique to this machine is its dual milk frother. The dual frother is perfect for creating the best and creamiest steamed and frothed milk. It has been said that some of the best froth in the world come from the Capresso frothing systems.

Extremely easy to clean. With removable stainless dip trays and water basin, you will find yourself with minimal messes.

Verdict

Capresso is a newer entry to the espresso maker market but this offering under $200 is a one of the best espresso machines amongst all the ones we reviewed. It’s pretty straightforward and comes with a nice stainless steel tamper.

Read the full review here.

6. Ariete Cafe Prestige Espresso maker

Another major leader in the industry is the Lello Ariete Cafe Prestige Coffee Maker. While this machine is naturally more expensive than others listed on this list, it’s feature, build quality and taste quality are with the extra dollars.

The simplicity behind the machine is similar to the Capresso; however, there are still some slight differences. Let’s take a look at the features so you can decide what is best for you.

This is one of the most compact machines in the industry. At 9 x 9 x 12 inches, this machine will complement every countertop in any kitchen.

This machine is made from some of the best quality materials in the industry: heavy-duty stainless steel. Built inside this beast is a 950-watt system capable of producing barista-worthy shots.

The Ariete has the natural ability to produce constant pressure with it’s 15 bar pump pressure system to produce the same constant cup of high-quality espresso every time.

With the perfect temperature, with respect to the thermoblock technology, you will not complain about a shot that you make.

With a removable 2 quart water tank, you can refill this at any time. As many users have pointed out, you might not find yourself doing this much, unless you are drinking several shot a day.

One of the best features that normally only higher budget espresso machines offer is the cup warming area. With this machine, you can heat up a cup before each shot of espresso. This is the perfect priming for a freshly brewed shot of espresso.

Verdict

The Ariete makes our list of reviews of the best espresso machines because of its really compact size. Espresso machines tend to be bulky, and if you’re looking for something that won’t take up too much space on your countertop but still makes great espresso, this is the one.

7. KRUPS XP3208 Espresso and Cappuccino maker

The KRUPS XP3208 is one of the most budget-friendly espresso makers on this list. At just around one Benjamin, you get a decent espresso maker that has a frothing wand built-in for making steamed and frothed milk.

A 15 bar pressure pump controls the extraction of the espresso shot, resulting in an intense shot and some crema on top. You get two inserts for the portafilter: one for a single shot and one for a double shot.

If you’re brewing a double shot, you can brew it into a single cup for more espresso goodness, or brew into two cups side by side if you have company.

You also have the option of fine-tuning settings to be able to extract the ideal shot to your taste. For an added touch of professionalism, there is a cup warmer on top.

At this price point, the KRUPS is a hard machine to beat.

Verdict

KRUPS makes pretty decent coffee makers and this espresso machine is no different. It’s one of the best espresso machines for this price point.

8. Cuisinart EM-100 Espresso Maker

The stainless steel Cuisinart EM-100 is a sturdily built espresso maker that just about makes this list in terms of price. Prices are always fluctuating ever so slightly so you may find that it is a bit more or less than our limit of $200.

Even then, you get a pretty good machine for the money. Like most of the machines in this list, it has a 15 bar pressure pump for a nice clean shot extraction.

The frothing wand can be used to froth and steam milk to your preference, and you also get a stainless steel frothing cup like the ones professional baristas use.

In all honesty, even though the Mr Coffee Cafe Barista mentioned above is easier to use, you can actually hone in your frothing skills by doing it manually.

You can make straight shots, double shots, cappuccinos, lattes, and with the freedom to froth any way you like, any other kind of milky espresso drink. Just place the cup on top of the machine to get it warm and start brewing!

Verdict

The Cuisinart EM-100 is a great little espresso maker for just around $200. It’s a semi automatic espresso machine, which means you’ll have to manually froth milk and pull the shot, but that’s to be expected at this price range.

Read the full review here

9. Nespresso Vertuo by Breville with Aeroccino frother

Nespresso machines, as you saw above with the Pixie, are the crema of the crop when it comes to capsule machines. The Vertuo by Breville is no different.

The reason we’ve included two Nespresso machines here is because the Pixie uses OriginalLine Nespresso pods, while the Vertuo uses VertuoLine Nespresso pods. You can learn about the differences here.

You can brew 5 cup sizes of coffee with this VertuoLine machine using just a single button press: espresso, double espresso, Gran Lungo(5 ounces), Americano(8 ounces), and a whopping 14 ounces with the Alto Coffee size.

The 1.5 liter removable water tank should last you for a good few cups, too.

VertuoLine machines tend to produce a lot more crema than OriginalLine machines, but some people feel that the taste is less intense. For crema fans, the Vertuo is a good pick. For fans of more traditional espresso, go for the Pixie.

Another bonus of this particular deal is you can pick up the Vertuo along with an Aeroccino milk frother for just around our price range.

If you’re good without milk, you can pick it up for even less. You’ve got to bear in mind though that the cost of the pods will gradually add up.

Verdict

Even though we’ve included one Nespresso machine already with the Pixie, the Nespresso Vertuo makes our list of home espresso machines under $200 because it can brew a lot of different types of coffees, not just espresso. If you’re looking for something that can make great espresso and a full cup of coffee, this is a good pick.

10. Aicok 15 bar espresso and cappuccino machine

Finally, the Aicok 15 bar espresso machine is the last suggestion on our list. Aicok is a lesser known brand but they do a really good job with this machine.

You can extract single shots, double shots, as well as use the frothing wand to steam and froth milk for a cappuccino or latte.

The operation is quite simple, and a really strong selling point for the Aicok espresso maker is the double boiler, which means there is one heating element for espresso and another heating element for the steam.

This means you can steam and extract simultaneously, allowing you to have a nice and hot beverage at the ready.

Aside from that, the design is really nice with a steel body and the standard removable tank and drip tray for easy cleaning.

Verdict

The double boiler on the Aicok espresso machine makes it a really value pick, and that’s the main reason we’ve considered it one of the best espresso machines for this budget.

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Best Espresso Machines Under $200: A Buyer’s Guide

The truth is, when it comes to espresso machines under $200, you are buying an entry level machine that’s most likely semi automatic.

When you are starting at this tier, you are essentially at the beginning stages of espresso makers.

Semi automatic and super automatic espresso machines

Semi automatic espresso machines will only pull the shot for you. Grinding the beans, dosing, tamping, and milk frothing must all be done manually.

Because these machines forgo a lot of features, manufacturers are able to sell them for budget-friendly prices.

If you have some more cash to spend and want a more complete setup, a super automatic machine will automatically grind, dose, tamp, brew, and even steam milk.

Some super automatic machines even allow for temperature control, which is not found on cheaper machines.

The variation of prices in the industry is dedicated by the different levels of pressures, features, customizability, and user-friendliness.

Bear in mind that even though you’re saving money on the espresso maker itself, you will need buy a high-quality grinder to match your brand new espresso machine.

For best results, you should grind coffee beans just before brewing rather that getting pre-ground coffee.

Why?

The simply answer is: pre-ground beans lose their aroma and taste very quickly. 

Even an expensive espresso machine can’t make good espresso out of bad coffee.

You can also pick up some extra things with your espresso machine to improve the brewing experience.

Final thoughts

Now that you know the top-rated espresso machines under $200, I am sure the first question you are asking is, well, which one should I pick?

Consider the following:

  • How much kitchen space do you have? For tight kitchens, get the Ariete.
  • Are you willing to work a semi automatic espresso machine, or do you prefer pods? Get a Nespresso if you want the ease-of-use of pods.
  • Would you like a one-touch machine or something that offers more control? Get the Mr Coffee if you want one-touch espresso brewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you just splurge on a better espresso machine?

Yes and no. If you already know you like espresso and cappuccino, and a lot of people drink coffee in your household, it may be worth just going for a better machine.

You’ll be saving money on coffee you’d otherwise buy from a mermaid!

However, if you’re just getting your feet wet, you may be apprehensive about spending so much and in that case, an inexpensive machine will help introduce you to the world of espresso.

Are there even cheaper machines available?

Since espresso is becoming so popular, a lot of brands have jumped on the espresso gravy train and you can even find espresso machines for less than $100. However these machines won’t perform quite as well and you may find yourself with buyers’ remorse for a bum purchase.

Last update on 2024-03-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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About Shabbir

Shab is the Chief Caffeine Officer at Coffee Brewster. When he's not weighing out coffee beans for his next brew, you can find him writing about his passion: coffee.