10 Best manual espresso machines 2025 in the United States

The CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine is a versatile and compact manual espresso maker that aims to bring the café experience to your home or office. This machine features a professional 20 bar pressure system, ideal for extracting rich and aromatic espresso shots. The built-in pressure gauge allows for adjustments based on personal taste preferences, making it a great option for those who enjoy customizing their coffee.

The stainless steel build gives it a stylish and durable appearance, fitting well in any kitchen size. Its 34oz removable water tank is convenient for multiple brews without frequent refilling, and the included milk frother lets you create creamy, textured milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos. Users should be mindful of the machine's need to cool down after frothing milk to avoid overheating.

The semi-automatic operation mode strikes a balance between ease of use and control, and the instructional videos available from CASABREWS can help you get the most out of the machine. The CASABREWS CM5418 offers excellent value for those seeking a high-quality, user-friendly espresso machine with the ability to craft various coffee drinks at home.

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine in brushed stainless steel is a robust choice for home baristas looking for manual control and quality. Its standout feature is the integrated conical burr grinder which grinds coffee beans on demand, ensuring fresh and precise doses for each shot. The machine incorporates a low-pressure pre-infusion system that gradually increases pressure, enhancing flavor extraction for a balanced espresso. Additionally, the digital PID temperature control ensures optimal water temperature, crucial for consistent espresso quality.

The manual steam wand allows you to create microfoam milk for lattes and cappuccinos, providing room for creative latte art. With a 54mm portafilter and included accessories like the tamper, milk jug, and cleaning tools, it offers a comprehensive package for beginners and seasoned users alike. However, the machine is on the heavier side at 22.1 pounds, and its size could be a consideration if you have limited counter space.

The included 1-year warranty is relatively standard, but some users might prefer a longer warranty period. The build quality is solid, utilizing brushed stainless steel which is both durable and visually appealing. The ease of use is enhanced by simple controls and maintenance tools, though new users may face a learning curve. The Breville Barista Express is best suited for coffee enthusiasts looking for a semi-automatic machine that balances manual control with convenience.

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is designed for those who want to enjoy barista-quality coffee at home. One of its main strengths is the fast heat-up time, thanks to the innovative thermojet heating system, which gets the machine ready in just 3 seconds. This is particularly useful for busy mornings or when you want a quick coffee fix.

The machine features a 54mm portafilter, which is a bit smaller than the commercial size but still capable of delivering rich flavors in your espresso. The automatic steam wand is a standout feature, providing hands-free microfoam milk texturing, perfect for latte art and enhancing the flavor of your drinks. This makes the machine user-friendly, especially for those new to making espresso drinks at home.

Build quality is solid, with brushed stainless steel that should hold up well over time. The low-pressure pre-infusion ensures that flavors are drawn out evenly, contributing to a balanced cup of coffee. The digital temperature control (PID) is another plus, making sure the water temperature is precise for optimal extraction. However, the machine might fall short for those who prefer manual control over every aspect of their espresso-making process. Maintenance and ease of use are generally good, although the automatic features might require some getting used to. The 1-year warranty adds a layer of confidence in the purchase. This machine is ideal for home users who want a quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.