Finding the perfect espresso machine without breaking the bank can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re a coffee enthusiast like me. I understand the frustration of sifting through countless reviews and product descriptions, only to end up more confused than when you started. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the six best espresso machines under $400.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the top affordable options that deliver quality and performance without sacrificing your budget. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a user-friendly machine or a seasoned barista in need of an upgrade, I’ve got you covered. From sleek designs to robust features, these espresso machines are sure to enhance your coffee experience.
Top Products:
Best Overall Espresso Machine Under $400
Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic
- Easy to operate and set up
- Produces rich and flavorful espresso
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Excellent steam pressure for frothing
Best Compact Espresso Machine Under $400
Nespresso CitiZ
- Compact and space-saving design
- Delicious espresso and cappuccino quality
- Quick heating for instant coffee
- Easy to use and operate
- Efficient milk frother functionality
Best Espresso Machine for Freshness Under $400
Tchibo Single Serve
- Makes outstanding coffee
- Simple to clean and maintain
- Sleek and elegant design
- Intuitive brewing process for ease
- Great value for the offered
So, sit back and relax as we dive into the world of affordable espresso machines. I promise you’ll find the perfect match to satisfy your coffee cravings and fit your budget. Let’s brew up some fantastic coffee together.
Short Buying Guide
When shopping for an espresso machine on a budget, here are the key factors to consider:
1. Type of Machine
- Manual: Offers maximum control but requires skill.
- Semi-Automatic: Balances control and convenience.
- Fully Automatic: User-friendly and ideal for beginners.
- Capsule: Uses pods for convenience and consistency.
2. Pressure: Look for machines with at least 9 bars of pressure for effective extraction and rich flavor.
3. Heating System
- Single Boiler: Budget-friendly, suitable for one task at a time.
- Thermoblock: Quick heating and consistent temperature.
- Dual Boiler: Allows simultaneous brewing and steaming (rare under $400).
4. Build Quality:Opt for durable materials like stainless steel and high-grade plastic to ensure longevity.
5. Ease of Use and Cleaning:Features like removable water reservoirs and drip trays make maintenance easy.
6. Size and Design:Choose a machine that fits your kitchen space and complements your decor.
7. Milk Frothing Capability:Decide if you prefer a manual steam wand or an automatic frother based on your drink preferences.
8. Grinder Compatibility:Consider if you need a built-in grinder or a machine that works well with a separate grinder.
9. Brand Reputation and Reviews:Research trusted brands and read user reviews to ensure reliability and customer satisfaction.
10. Warranty and Support: Look for machines with at least a one-year warranty and good customer support.
Our Recommendations For Best Espresso Machines Under $400
| Award | Design | Espresso Machines | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall Espresso Machine Under $400 | Best Pick | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Espresso Machine for Convenience Under $400 |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Espresso Machine for Freshness Under $400 | Budget Pick | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Espresso Machine for Beginners Under $400 |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Under $400 |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Compact Espresso Machine Under $400 | Staff Pick | VIEW ON AMAZON |
Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic
Best Overall Espresso Machine Under $400
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic Evo Pro | Material: Stainless Steel | Weight: 20.5 pounds | Power: 120V | Boiler: Single Stainless Steel | Pump Pressure: 15 Bars | Water Reservoir Capacity: 2.1 Liters | Portafilter Size: 58mm | Compatibility: Ground Coffee and ESE Pods
| FEATURES:
Timeless stainless steel design | 58mm commercial-style portafilter for optimal extraction | Adjustable temperature for customized brewing |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Easy to operate and set up
✓Produces rich and flavorful espresso
✓Sturdy and durable construction
✓Excellent steam pressure for frothing
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Takes time to heat up
✗Requires regular maintenance cleaning
If you’re serious about coffee, the Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic Evo Pro Espresso Machine is a fantastic investment. Designed to enhance your home brewing experience, this machine combines durability with excellent performance. Its robust stainless steel build not only looks great in your kitchen but also promises longevity, allowing you to enjoy countless cups of quality espresso.
One of the standout features is its commercial-style 58mm portafilter, which ensures optimal extraction for rich, flavorful shots. The adjustable temperature settings allow you to customize your brew based on the type of coffee you’re using, catering to various preferences. Plus, the pre-infusion system provides a gentle soak of the coffee grounds, ensuring an even extraction for a fuller taste.
For those who love lattes and cappuccinos, the powerful steam wand makes frothing milk a breeze, letting you create café-quality beverages at home. Maintenance is simple with its removable drip tray and water reservoir, ensuring your machine stays clean and functional.
In summary, the Gaggia RI9380/56 is an ideal choice for coffee enthusiasts seeking a reliable and high-quality espresso machine. With its exceptional features and user-friendly design, this machine addresses common brewing challenges, making it easier for you to enjoy delicious espresso every day.
Nespresso VertuoPlus
Best Espresso Machine for Convenience Under $400
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: De’Longhi | Model: VertuoPlus | Milk Frother: Included | Pod Compatibility: Nespresso-br pods only | Sizes: 1.5 oz (Espresso) to 14 oz (Alto XL)
| FEATURES:
Unique “centrifusion” technology for brewing | One-button operation for ease of use | Produces a creamy layer of crema | Variety of flavors and intensities available
REASONS TO BUY
✓Excellent coffee quality and flavor
✓Easy to use with one button
✓Highly effective milk frother included
✓Well-designed app for convenience
✓Good variety of pod options available
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Expensive pods
✗Noisy brewing process
The Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee Espresso Machine is a game-changer for those who appreciate convenience without sacrificing quality. With its compact design, it easily fits into any kitchen, making it perfect for both small apartments and larger spaces. This machine is ideal for busy individuals who want a delicious cup of coffee or espresso with minimal effort.
What sets the VertuoPlus apart is its unique “centrifusion” technology, which brews coffee and espresso to perfection. Just insert a pod, press a button, and let the machine do the work. This user-friendly operation is a huge advantage for those who may not have the time or skills for traditional espresso brewing, ensuring you get café-quality drinks every time.
The versatility of the VertuoPlus is another major highlight. With pod sizes ranging from a strong espresso shot to a generous 14 oz serving, it caters to all coffee preferences. Whether you want a quick espresso in the morning or a larger coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up, this machine has you covered.
Additionally, Nespresso is committed to sustainability. The integrated recycling program allows you to enjoy your coffee guilt-free, knowing that the aluminum pods are 100% recyclable. Overall, the Nespresso VertuoPlus is an excellent choice for coffee lovers seeking quality, convenience, and an eco-friendly option.
Tchibo Single Serve
Best Espresso Machine for Freshness Under $400
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Tchibo Single Serve Coffee Maker | Grinder: Built-in | Water Tank: Small, requires frequent refilling | Coffee Types: Espresso, Americano | Included: Comes with 3x ounce bags of whole beans | FEATURES:
Grind your own coffee for fresher taste | Intuitive design makes brewing simple | Easy maintenance and cleaning | Modern and elegant design fits any kitchen | Options to adjust coffee strength and size
REASONS TO BUY
✓Makes outstanding coffee
✓Simple to clean and maintain
✓Sleek and elegant design
✓Intuitive brewing process for ease
✓Great value for the offered
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Noisy operation after few weeks
✗Grinder affect performance
The Tchibo Single Serve Coffee Maker is perfect for those who value freshness and quality in their coffee. Unlike traditional machines that rely on coffee pods, this innovative model features a built-in grinder, allowing you to brew your favorite coffee directly from whole beans. This ensures every cup is bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts.
One of the standout benefits of this machine is its compact design, making it ideal for any kitchen, no matter the size. Its sleek appearance not only enhances your kitchen aesthetic but also provides a functional brewing experience. The intuitive controls make it easy for anyone to use, whether you’re a novice or an experienced barista.
The ability to customize your brew strength and size is a significant advantage. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a milder Americano, you can adjust the settings to suit your taste. This versatility is perfect for households with varying coffee preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their ideal cup.
Maintenance is a breeze with the Tchibo Single Serve Coffee Maker. Its easy-to-clean design ensures you spend less time on upkeep and more time savoring your freshly brewed coffee. If you’re looking for a reliable espresso machine that prioritizes freshness and user-friendliness, the Tchibo Single Serve Coffee Maker is a fantastic choice.
Amaste Machine with Grinder
Best Espresso Machine for Beginners Under $400
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Amaste Machine with Grinder | Pressure: 15 Bar | Water Tank Capacity: 68 oz | Weight: 19.96 pounds |
| FEATURES
Integrated grinder for fresh coffee | Steam wand for lattes and cappuccinos | Pre-infusion brewing process | User-friendly controls for easy operation | Compact design suitable for countertops
REASONS TO BUY
✓Good quality espresso shots produced
✓Integrated grinder is convenient and efficient
✓Stylish design adds kitchen appeal
✓Steam wand works well for frothing
✓Easy to clean and maintain
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Temperature control is inconsistent
The Amaste Machine with Grinder is the ideal espresso machine for beginners who want to enjoy barista-quality coffee at home. With its integrated grinder, you can brew fresh coffee from whole beans, ensuring maximum flavor in every cup. This feature sets it apart from many entry-level machines, allowing you to experience the rich taste of freshly ground coffee.
One of the key advantages of the Amaste machine is its user-friendly controls. Even if you’re new to making espresso, the straightforward design makes it easy to operate. You can quickly adjust settings to achieve your preferred brew strength, so you can enjoy a personalized coffee experience every time. This ease of use empowers you to become more confident in your brewing skills.
The pre-infusion brewing process is another standout feature, ensuring even extraction for a fuller flavor profile. Additionally, the steam wand allows you to create delicious lattes and cappuccinos, making it a versatile option for various coffee drinks. This means you can enjoy your favorite café beverages right in your kitchen.
With its compact design, the Amaste Machine fits well on countertops, making it suitable for any kitchen space. If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use espresso machine that delivers quality results, the Amaste Machine with Grinder is a fantastic choice for coffee enthusiasts just starting their journey.
MEROL Automatic
Best Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Under $400
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: MEROL Automatic Espresso Coffee Machine | Pressure: 19 Bar Barista Pump | Integrated Grinder: Yes | Milk Frother: Manual Steam Wand | Color: Black
| FEATURES :
Automatic espresso brewing for ease of use | Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds | Manual milk frother for creamy foam | Versatile, capable of making various coffee styles | User-friendly interface for quick operation
REASONS TO BUY
✓Brews rich, flavorful espresso
✓Convenient built-in grinder feature
✓Compact design saves counter space
✓Good value for the price
✓Simple operation, great for beginners
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Difficult to clean thoroughly
✗Inconsistent milk frothing performance
The MEROL Automatic Espresso Coffee Machine is an excellent choice for coffee lovers seeking quality and convenience in one sleek package. With its powerful 19-bar barista pump, this machine ensures optimal extraction for rich, flavorful espresso. This feature is especially beneficial for those who appreciate the art of coffee making but may not have the time or experience for manual brewing.
One of the key highlights of the MEROL machine is its built-in grinder, allowing you to enjoy the freshness of ground coffee with every brew. This means you can easily transition from whole beans to a delicious espresso shot with just a few simple steps. The user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone to operate, ensuring you can whip up your favorite coffee drinks in no time.
The manual steam wand is another fantastic feature, giving you the ability to create creamy, frothy milk for cappuccinos and lattes. This versatility allows you to explore different coffee styles without needing multiple machines. Whether you want a bold espresso or a frothy latte, the MEROL machine can handle it all.
In addition to its performance, the compact design fits seamlessly into any kitchen space. Plus, its easy-to-clean components make maintenance hassle-free. If you’re looking for a fully automatic espresso machine that delivers quality results with minimal effort, the MEROL Automatic Espresso Coffee Machine is a perfect choice.
Nespresso CitiZ
Best Compact Espresso Machine Under $400
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Nespresso CitiZ Coffee and Espresso Machine | Type: Coffee and Espresso Maker | Milk Frother: Included | Compatibility: Works with Nespresso original capsules
| FEATURES:
Sleek and compact design suitable for any kitchen | Quick heating system for fast brewing | Intuitive one-button functionality | Variety of coffee capsule options available | Easy disassembly for cleaning
REASONS TO BUY
✓Compact and space-saving design
✓Delicious espresso and cappuccino quality
✓Quick heating for instant coffee
✓Easy to use and operate
✓Efficient milk frother functionality
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Coffee temperature is hot enough
The Nespresso CitiZ Coffee and Espresso Machine is a standout choice for those seeking a compact and stylish coffee maker without compromising on quality. Its sleek design ensures that it fits seamlessly into any kitchen decor, making it an attractive addition to your countertop. Despite its small footprint, the CitiZ offers powerful performance, making it ideal for coffee lovers with limited space.
This machine’s quick heating system is perfect for busy mornings when you need your caffeine fix fast. With intuitive one-button functionality, brewing a rich, flavorful espresso or lungo is as simple as pressing a button. This ease of use makes it an excellent option for beginners and experienced coffee drinkers alike who want a hassle-free brewing experience.
The inclusion of a milk frother adds versatility to the CitiZ, allowing you to create creamy lattes and frothy cappuccinos with minimal effort. With a variety of Nespresso original capsules available, you can easily explore different flavors and intensities, ensuring that you never run out of delicious options.
Cleaning and maintenance are also straightforward, as the machine is designed for easy disassembly. If you’re looking for a compact espresso machine that delivers exceptional quality and convenience, the Nespresso CitiZ is a fantastic choice that will elevate your coffee experience at home.
Conclusion
In summary, finding the best espresso machine under $400 can significantly enhance your home coffee experience. Whether you prioritize convenience, freshness, or versatility, there’s an ideal machine for everyone in this list. From the Gaggia RI9380/56, which excels in performance and durability, to the compact Nespresso CitiZ that fits seamlessly into any kitchen, each option offers unique features tailored to meet your coffee needs.
Investing in one of these espresso machines allows you to enjoy barista-quality beverages from the comfort of your home, ensuring you have access to delicious coffee every day. Choose the machine that aligns with your preferences and enjoy the rich flavors and aromas of freshly brewed espresso.
FAQs
1. What is the best espresso machine under $400?
The best espresso machine for you depends on your preferences. The Gaggia RI9380/56 is often recommended for overall performance, while the Nespresso VertuoPlus is ideal for convenience.
2. Do I need coffee pods to use these machines?
Not all machines require coffee pods. The Tchibo Single Serve Coffee Maker and Amaste Machine allow you to use whole coffee beans, providing fresher flavors.
3. Are these machines easy to clean?
Yes, all machines mentioned have been designed with user-friendly cleaning features. Most have removable components that make maintenance quick and simple.
4. Can I make different types of coffee with these machines?
Yes, many machines, like the MEROL Automatic Espresso Machine and Nespresso CitiZ, can brew various coffee styles, including espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes.
5. How do I choose the right espresso machine for my needs?
Consider factors such as your brewing preferences (pod vs. whole beans), available kitchen space, ease of use, and desired features, such as a built-in grinder or milk frother.
