Espresso machine, grinder and accessory deals

How to choose espresso gear

Espresso machines range from simple manual tools to machines that do everything at the push of a button. The best deal depends on how hands-on you want to be and what you'll spend to keep it running.

Pump, lever or super-automatic

Most home espresso machines are pump machines: an electric pump pushes hot water through the coffee, and you grind, dose and tamp the coffee yourself. Lever machines use your own force, or a spring you load, to make the pressure. They give a lot of control and have fewer parts to break, but take practice. Super-automatic machines grind, tamp and brew for you, and many steam milk too. They're the easiest to use, but they have more parts to clean and repair, and give you less control over the shot.

The grinder matters most

Espresso needs a fine, even grind that you can adjust in small steps. A good burr grinder made for espresso usually makes a bigger difference to the coffee than a more expensive machine does. Blade grinders and many basic grinders can't grind fine or evenly enough. If your budget is tight, many home baristas spend on the grinder first. Super-automatic machines have a grinder built in, so check how far it can be adjusted.

Milk drinks

If you drink lattes or cappuccinos, check how the machine steams milk. Steam wands give the most control but take practice; automatic frothers are easier. Machines with a single boiler can't brew and steam at the same time, so making several milk drinks takes longer. Dual-boiler and heat-exchanger machines can do both at once but usually cost more.

Water, descaling and running costs

Minerals in tap water build up as scale inside machines and can damage them. Follow the maker's instructions for water: some recommend filtered water or a specific filter cartridge, and most say how often to descale. Using the wrong water or skipping descaling can void some warranties. Count the ongoing costs: descaling solution, water filters, cleaning tablets for super-automatics, gaskets and shower screens over time, and of course fresh coffee beans.

Refurbished from authorized sellers

Refurbished espresso machines and grinders can be good value. Buy from the brand or a seller the brand authorizes, so the warranty is honored and parts are available. Check what was serviced, whether the portafilter, baskets, tamper and steam tip are included, and what condition the listing describes.

Warranty and service

Check how long the warranty lasts and how repairs work: whether you ship the machine to a service center, and whether parts like gaskets are easy to buy. Machines with widely available parts are easier to keep running for years.

Check the size and the accessories

Measure the space under your cabinets, since some machines are tall or need room to open the water tank. Look at the portafilter size if you plan to buy baskets or a tamper separately, because accessories have to match.

Guide updated October 22, 2026.