A brand-new bean-to-cup machine with a built-in grinder under $500, Tom's Guide called it 'the best budget bean-to-cup on the market.' Gets you barista-quality espresso without buying a separate grinder.
The Casabrews Marenza may be the best budget bean-to-cup espresso machine on the market. Despite an inconsistent grinder and slow steam wand, the Marenza is praised for its barista-quality espresso and is recommended for baristas on a budget.
The second-cheapest (good) bean-to-cup I've tested is the De'Longhi Arte Evo ($699), making the Marenza a standout value in the bean-to-cup category.
The most recommended espresso machine under $500 by both experts and the community. Compact, fast 3-second heat-up, and pulls café-quality shots with a powerful automatic steam wand.
The world's most popular home espresso machine for good reason, built-in burr grinder, PID temperature control, and consistent pressure in one package around $500. WIRED's reviewer used one daily for seven years without issues.
A cult-favorite semi-automatic with commercial-grade internals at a sub-$500 price. The espresso community has modded and loved this machine for decades, it's the gateway drug to serious home espresso.
At $119, this is the cheapest espresso machine that actually delivers reliable shots and decent foam. CNET tested it and called it a 'true budget buy', ideal for first-timers who want real espresso without the commitment.