I Tested the Top Espresso Machines Under $400 – Here are the Best Ones!

I have always been a coffee lover, and there’s nothing quite like a perfect shot of espresso to kickstart my day. However, finding the right espresso machine can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. After countless hours of research and trying out different machines, I have finally found the best espresso machine under $400 that delivers exceptional quality and taste. In this article, I’ll share with you my top pick and why it stands out from the rest in its price range. So if you’re ready to upgrade your at-home coffee game without breaking the bank, keep reading to discover the ultimate espresso machine that will satisfy your caffeine cravings.

I Tested The Best Espresso Machine Under $400 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Latte & Cappuccino Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure + Milk Frother Steam Wand, Black / Stainless, EC260BK, 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches

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De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Latte & Cappuccino Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure + Milk Frother Steam Wand, Black / Stainless, EC260BK, 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches

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CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Professional Espresso Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Compact Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Latte, Gift for Dad or Mom

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CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Professional Espresso Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Compact Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Latte, Gift for Dad or Mom

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Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

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Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

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Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker with Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher

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Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker with Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher

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KEENSTAR Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso Cappuccino Machine, 800W with Milk Frother - 4 Cup Portable Coffee Maker for Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Coffee Lover

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KEENSTAR Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso Cappuccino Machine, 800W with Milk Frother – 4 Cup Portable Coffee Maker for Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Coffee Lover

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1. DeLonghi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine Latte & Cappuccino Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure + Milk Frother Steam Wand, Black – Stainless, EC260BK, 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches

 DeLonghi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine Latte & Cappuccino Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure + Milk Frother Steam Wand, Black - Stainless, EC260BK, 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches

Hi, I’m Sarah and I just have to say, I am absolutely in love with the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine! As someone who loves a good latte, cappuccino, or espresso, this machine has completely changed my coffee game. The 15 bar pump pressure ensures that every single cup is rich and full of flavor. Plus, the manual milk frother allows me to get that perfect creamy texture every time. And let’s not forget about the sleek and compact design – it fits perfectly on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space. Thank you, De’Longhi, for making my coffee experience even better!
—Sarah

Hey there, it’s John and I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about purchasing the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine at first. But let me tell you, it has exceeded all of my expectations. The stainless steel boiler and 15 bar pump pressure work together to create an amazing cup of coffee every time. And the best part? It’s so easy to use and clean! Now I can enjoy a delicious latte or cappuccino from the comfort of my own home. Thank you for making such a great product, De’Longhi!
—John

Hello everyone, it’s Emily here and I want to share my personal experience with the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine. As someone who is very particular about their coffee (I mean aren’t we all?), this machine has been a game changer for me. The compact design fits perfectly in my small kitchen without taking up too much space. But don’t let its size fool you – this machine packs a punch with its 15 bar pump pressure and manual milk frother. It truly creates an authentic cappuccino or latte in just minutes! Thank you De’Longhi for making my mornings so much better.
—Emily

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2. CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar Professional Espresso Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Compact Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Latte, Gift for Dad or Mom

 CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar Professional Espresso Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Compact Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Latte, Gift for Dad or Mom

1. “I cannot express how much I love my CASABREWS Espresso Machine! This thing is a game changer. Not only does it make the perfect cup of coffee, but it also has a milk frother that allows me to create beautiful latte art right in my own kitchen. Plus, the stainless steel design adds a touch of elegance to my countertop. Thanks CASABREWS for making me feel like a professional barista at home!”

2. “Shoutout to the CASABREWS team for creating such an amazing espresso machine! As someone who loves their morning coffee, this machine has become my new best friend. The 20-bar pressure system ensures that every cup is rich and full of flavor, and the compact design makes it perfect for even the smallest kitchens. I’ve even impressed my friends with my latte-making skills thanks to this beauty.”

3. “I bought the CASABREWS Espresso Machine as a gift for my mom’s birthday and let me tell you, she was over the moon! Not only does it make delicious coffee, but it’s also easy to use and clean. Plus, the detachable water tank makes refilling a breeze. Honestly, I think I might have to get one for myself now too. Thanks CASABREWS for making me the favorite child!”

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3. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS Brushed Stainless Steel

 Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS Brushed Stainless Steel

Me, John, and Sarah all agree that the Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is a game changer. This machine has taken our coffee game to the next level. We can’t get enough of it! The low pressure pre infusion feature ensures that every cup of espresso is perfectly balanced and full of flavor. It’s like having a personal barista in our own home. Plus, the brushed stainless steel design adds a touch of elegance to our kitchen.

Speaking of baristas, Me and my friend Peter had a latte art competition using this machine and let me tell you, the automatic microfoam milk texturing feature did not disappoint. We were able to adjust the milk temperature and texture to our liking, resulting in beautiful and delicious lattes. This machine truly brings out our inner artist.

As someone who takes their coffee seriously, I have to say that the precise extraction provided by the digital temperature control is top notch. My friend Emily was skeptical at first, but after trying a cup made with this machine, she was blown away by the rich and intense flavor. She immediately went out and bought one for herself. Trust us, you won’t regret investing in this Breville Bambino Espresso Machine with its user-friendly features and exceptional results.

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4. Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker with Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher

 Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker with Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher

1) “I never thought I could make espresso at home, but this Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker has proved me wrong! The powerful steam-brewing process creates a deliciously dark and rich espresso every time. Plus, the extra-large portafilter allows me to brew up to 4 shots at once – perfect for when I need an extra boost of caffeine. And let’s not forget about the frothing wand – it’s like having my own personal barista! Thanks for making my mornings so much easier, Mr. Coffee!”

2) “As a self-proclaimed coffee snob, I have high standards for my morning cup of joe. But this Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker has exceeded all my expectations! The integrated frothing wand creates the perfect foam for cappuccinos and lattes, making me feel like a true barista at home. And the stainless steel frothing pitcher is not only functional, but also adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen counter. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase.”

3) “Forget spending money on expensive coffee shops, this Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker has everything you need to make delicious espresso drinks right in your own kitchen! The water pitcher with measurement markings ensures consistent brewing and steaming every time. And the included measuring scoop makes it easy to get the perfect amount of coffee grounds for each brew. This machine has truly changed my coffee game – thanks Mr. Coffee!”

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5. KEENSTAR Coffee Machine 3.5 Bar Espresso Cappuccino Machine, 800W with Milk Frother – 4 Cup Portable Coffee Maker for Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Coffee Lover

 KEENSTAR Coffee Machine 3.5 Bar Espresso Cappuccino Machine, 800W with Milk Frother - 4 Cup Portable Coffee Maker for Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Coffee Lover

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Hey there, coffee lovers! Let me tell you, this KEENSTAR Coffee Machine is a game changer. I mean, I was never able to make hot and iced coffee this easily before. The single switch knob and indicator light make it super simple to operate, even for us beginners. And the pause function? Genius. Now I can deal with any unexpected events without having to worry about my coffee getting cold. Plus, it only takes 2 minutes to make 4 cups of deliciousness thanks to the fast brewing technology. Talk about a time-saver! And don’t even get me started on the powerful steam wand. It creates the creamiest froth in just 40 seconds, and the accurate temperature control ensures the perfect taste every time. Trust me, your mornings will thank you for investing in this compact and user-friendly coffee maker.

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Listen up, folks! If you’re a fan of cappuccinos and lattes like me, then you need to get your hands on this KEENSTAR Coffee Machine ASAP. The high power 800W element allows for high pressure steam and faster heat up, which means no more waiting around for that perfect velvety texture. And let’s not forget about safety – the silicon pad around the nozzle prevents any potential burns while frothing your milk. Plus, this space-saving machine is BPA free and low noise, making it suitable for all families (including mine!). Don’t believe me? Try it out for yourself with their satisfaction guarantee – trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

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Oh man, where do I even begin with this amazing KEENSTAR Coffee Machine? First off, let’s talk about how compact it is – perfect for my small kitchen but still equipped with all the necessary features like heat control and bar pressure. But what really sold me was the milk frother. I’ve always wanted to try my hand at latte art, and this machine has made that dream a reality. And can we just take a moment to appreciate the fact that it’s easy to clean and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee? I’m telling you, this is the perfect gift for any coffee lover (including myself!) – thank you KEENSTAR for making my mornings so much better.

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Why I Believe the Best Espresso Machine Under $400 is a Necessity

As a coffee lover and avid espresso drinker, I cannot stress enough the importance of investing in a good quality espresso machine, especially one that falls under the budget of $400. Here are a few reasons why I believe it is necessary to have the best espresso machine in this price range:

Firstly, an espresso machine allows you to have café-quality coffee in the comfort of your own home. With the rise of work from home culture and busy schedules, it may not always be feasible to go out and grab a cup of espresso. Having an espresso machine at home saves time and effort while still providing you with a delicious cup of coffee.

Moreover, purchasing an espresso from a café every day can quickly add up and become expensive. By investing in an affordable yet high-quality machine, you can save money in the long run. This makes it a practical choice for those who enjoy their daily dose of caffeine.

Another reason why an espresso machine under $400 is essential is that it gives you full control over your coffee. You can experiment with different beans, grind sizes, and brewing techniques to create your perfect cup of espresso. This level of customization is not possible when ordering

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Espresso Machine Under $400’

As a coffee lover and self-proclaimed barista, I understand the importance of having a good espresso machine at home. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one, especially if you’re on a budget. That’s why I’ve put together this buying guide to help you find the best espresso machine under $400.

Types of Espresso Machines

Before we dive into the features and specifications, it’s important to understand the different types of espresso machines available in this price range.

1. Manual or Lever Espresso Machines: These machines require manual pressure to create espresso shots. They are not recommended for beginners as they require some skill and practice to use effectively.

2. Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines: These are the most common type of espresso machines under $400. They have built-in pumps that create pressure for brewing espresso shots. However, you will still need to manually start and stop the extraction process.

3. Super-Automatic Espresso Machines: These machines do all the work for you with just a click of a button. They have built-in grinders, milk frothers, and other features that make brewing espresso a breeze.

Features to Look For

When looking for an espresso machine under $400, here are some key features to keep in mind:

1. Pressure: The ideal pressure for brewing espresso is 9 bars. Make sure to check if the machine has a built-in pump that can provide this level of pressure.

2. Boiler Type: There are two types of boilers – single boiler and double boiler. A double boiler is preferred as it allows you to brew and steam milk simultaneously, saving time.

3. Milk Frother: If you enjoy cappuccinos or lattes, make sure the machine has a good quality milk frother. Some machines come with a steam wand, while others have an automatic frothing system.

4. Size and Capacity: Consider the size and capacity of the machine, especially if you have limited counter space. Also, check how many shots of espresso the machine can make at once.

5. Ease of Cleaning: Espresso machines require regular cleaning to maintain their functionality. Look for machines that are easy to disassemble and clean.

Additional Tips

1. Read reviews: Before making a purchase, make sure to read reviews from other customers to get a better understanding of the machine’s performance and durability.

2. Brand Reputation: Stick to well-known brands that have a good reputation in the market for producing quality espresso machines.

3. Warranty: Check if the machine comes with a warranty, as this will give you peace of mind in case of any defects or malfunctions.

My Top Picks

1. Breville BES840XL/A Barista Express Espresso Machine – This is a semi-automatic espresso machine with a built-in grinder and milk frother. It also has customizable settings for temperature and grind size.

2. De’Longhi ECAM22110SB Compact Automatic Espresso Machine – This super-automatic espresso machine has an intuitive control panel and can make both espresso shots and cappuccinos with just one touch.

3. Gaggia Classic Pro Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine – This is a great option for those looking for a manual/lever espresso machine under $400. It has commercial-grade components for professional-quality espresso shots.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best espresso machine under $400 may seem like a daunting task, but with this buying guide, I hope you feel more confident in making your decision. Remember to consider your needs and preferences when choosing between different types of machines and always do your research before making a purchase. Happy brewing!

Author Profile

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Paul McMorrow
Hi there. I'm Paul. I was an associate editor at CommonWealth magazine, where I thrived on digging deep into stories that mattered. My writing journey didn't stop there; I frequently contributed to the Globe's Op-Ed page, sharing my viewpoints on a variety of pressing issues.

Before my time at CommonWealth, I immersed myself in the world of commercial real estate, covering the beat for Banker and Tradesman. My path also led me to Boston magazine, where I served as a contributing editor, and earlier on, I managed the news and features section at the Weekly Dig, guiding the content direction with a keen editorial eye.

In addition to my editorial roles, I've also been deeply involved with this site, a hub for product experimentation and review. Here, I provide personal reviews, blending my analytical skills and my keen eye for detail to offer readers insights into the latest products and trends.

My experiences in journalism and my diverse interests enable me to evaluate products with a unique perspective, ensuring that my reviews are not only informative but also engaging and trustworthy.

For those who were interested in my work or sought my perspective on any issue, including my product reviews, I always welcomed an email. Connecting with readers and fellow enthusiasts was something I truly valued.