Best Espresso Machine Under $300 Budget – Top 7 Picks

Looking for an espresso machine but tight on budget? Check out this post and get to know about your best espresso machine under $300. Enjoy reading! 

When it comes to espresso, most aficionados are driven by the desire to upgrade continuously. In this quest to upgrade, you may feel the necessity to bring a functional espresso machine home so that you don’t need to rush to the local cafe to quench your thirst for rich and satisfying espressos. 

However, a lot of people refrain from buying an espresso machine as they think that espresso makers are all about hefty investments. Our today’s post aims to burst this myth; hence it lists down the best espresso machines under $300 available in today’s market. Keep reading and pick up the one that caters best to your requirements. 

The Best Espresso Machine Under $300 – Top 7 Picks

1. Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

For anyone venturing into a home barista and willing to invest in an entry-level espresso machine loaded with everything required to brew avant-garde espresso at ease – The Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma is probably one of the best picks. With 68% 5-star ratings on Amazon, the gizmo tends to own the crown of easiness when it comes to brewing, features, frothing and cleaning. 

This machine walks on the middle of the track, which means it won’t be synonymous with a prosumer-machine-like rich crema and subtle nuances, nor will it taste unsavory. However, considering its price tag, Cafe Roma, with its 15-bar Thermoblock pump, will leave you enticed with its richly flavored shots. Besides, it boasts a sturdy build (stainless steel) that evidences Breville hasn’t compromised anywhere for keeping the price tag reasonable. In addition, the build and aesthetics of this machine are one of the key factors behind its fan following. 

Now talking about milk frothing, the gadget comes with a froth enhancer and dual-wall filter system, which will certainly help you get the most out of frothing. If you are a latte or cappuccino lover, the milk frothing abilities of this espresso maker will certainly please you. However, you will be required to operate the frother yourself as it ain’t an automatic one. To counter this downside, it has a 6-cup warming tray which is good to see at this price. 

With Breville Cafe Roma, you will be getting accessories like a tamping tool, measuring spoon, cleaning tool, and a frothing jug. Keep in mind that, like most espresso machines, you won’t be able to brew directly into a large mug (especially when making Americano or latte, large mugs are required). 

What we liked

• Compatible with both pods and grounds
• Sturdy build with brushed stainless steel exterior
• Adequate brewing control
• Value for money

What we don’t like

• Lacks pre-infusion
• It can’t accommodate large mugs

Verdict

Overall, the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma has all the good qualities of an entry-level espresso machine. For a new home barista, it makes brewing sensational. As an added benefit, you’re backed by a 1-year warranty and remarkable customer support, ready to assist you literally ‘anytime’!. 

2. Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If it’s about naming an espresso maker that sits snugly at the convergence of affordability, automation, and convenience; Mr. Coffee One-touch CoffeeHouse deserves a mention. Its 19-bar Italian pump enables the machine to extract robust flavors and make delectable espresso from almost any beans or grinds. 

Dear cappuccino and latte lovers, get ready for a surprise! This gizmo comes with an automatic frother that can whip any milk into a creamy froth. Besides, the machine’s removable milk reservoir automatically mixes either of the beverages for you. Additionally, it boasts a thermocouple heating system for evenly heating water. It also features a one-touch operation for single or double shots of espresso. Well, all these together is a specimen of automation, ain’t it?

However, for those who hold the expertise and want to carry out manual foaming and espresso extraction, you can rely on the manual mode. Unlike the Cafe Roma, this one can fit tall mugs because of its adjustable cup tray. To highlight a downside, the milk reservoir is deep enough, and you will have to invest a little time cleaning it unless you want to compromise the quality of milk foam. 

What we liked

• Very easy to use
• Allows both manual and automatic operations
• Removable water tank and milk reservoir
• Allows you to have more froth (cappuccino) or less (latte)
• Auto shut-off
• Reasonably priced semi-automatic espresso machine

What we don’t like

• Lacks flavor when using light roast beans
• Noisy when frothing milk
• Doesn’t allows pulling hot water only

Verdict

In a one-liner, Mr.Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is a functional and affordable espresso maker with modern looks and upscale features. Besides, Mr. Coffee is known for its avant-garde customer support; however, you might not be required to get in touch with them as it’s super easy to use the gizmo and the instruction manual have it all you would need. 

3. De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe seems to be inspired by the famous LMFAO’s song – “I’m sexy, and I know it,”. The gizmo offers an excellent brewing experience in a compact shape and metallic finish. With a heating time of fewer than 10 minutes for the first brew, 15-bar pressure, adjustable frother, and automatic flow stop – Dedica is surely a great addition to any kitchen, especially if it’s your first espresso machine. 

When it comes to taste, it pulls robust shots of espresso and is capable enough to satisfy your craving for a concentrated punch of quality espresso. For espresso-infused beverages like cappuccino, rest assured that you’ll get a decent foam with its built-in steam wand. However, the texture it produces could have been better. 

When you receive the Dedica Deluxe, it won’t take much time for you to assemble and get your machine ready to brew, as the instruction manual eases the job. Just like any other semi-automatic espresso maker, you might require to go through a learning curve when it comes to tamping and brewing espresso. But, the intuitive interface and conveniently labeled buttons of this gizmo will assist you in optimizing your skills post-haste. 

The best part you would come across with Dedica is its ease of cleaning. The portafilter doesn’t encounter too many build-ups; thus, simply wiping it will help you keep it clean. Besides, the steam wand is dishwasher safe and can be disassembled for easy cleaning.  

What we liked

• Excellent frother
• Consistent brewing
• Appealing design
• Easy to use and clean
• Fits tall cups 

What we don’t like

• Doesn’t cup with a milk jug
• Short warranty

Verdict

To conclude, the compact design and ease of cleaning are the USPs of the De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe. As a semi-automatic espresso maker, the machine justifies its price; however, the quality of espresso it brews can be considered just above average.

4. De’Longhi EC702

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are a beginner, the De’Longhi EC702 comes with no hustle-bustle of fancy features and brewing styles and capacities, therefore, enabling you to level up your home barista skills with ease. It uses both pods and grounds, making it flexible, and boasts a filter holder that’s patented by the brand. 

With this gizmo, you won’t have to pave through start-up controls as the machine comes with self-priming, which means it will heat up and get ready for brew unattended. You will be free to control the pressure and temperature without dealing with basic functions. Moreover, you will be able to set temperatures for the steam wand and water tank individually because of its dual-thermostat system. Moreover, you can also control the coffee quantity you want to brew with both single and double pressurized filter baskets. 

It pulls rich shots with fantastic crema and is worth admiring when it comes to the quality of espresso it offers at the price tag. Even if compared to high-end models, the EC702 won’t let you down when it comes to delivering quality espresso. Besides, the Panarello steam wand does a decent job of steaming milk and creating foam. To get the most out of this gizmo, make sure you use fine or extra-fine grind size. 

Durability often becomes a matter of concern when you are looking for an espresso machine under $300; however, the EC702 stacks up well compared to its fellow competitors. As it doesn’t have many moving parts, cleaning this machine also becomes easy, giving it another reason to be called ‘excellent.’

What we liked

• Shots pulled with accurate temperature 
• Compact and sturdy build 
• Straightforward without any confusing features
• Pressurized portafilters and Panarello wand are simple to use

What we don’t like

• Long heat-up time
• Lacks auto shut-off feature

Verdict

Now comes the judgment time – the De’Longhi EC702 is a no-fuss espresso machine that won’t hit your pocket hard and brings you what espresso machines are all about, “a flavorsome cup of espresso.“

5. De’Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker, COM532M

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are searching for a gizmo that can duplicate the coffeehouse experience with easy espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, and drip coffee at home, De’Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker is perhaps meant for you. If you have the countertop space for both a coffee maker and an espresso machine, you can leverage their combined benefits by bringing this unique appliance from De’Longhi.

Be it a carafe of piping hot coffee that fuels you through the different conditions of the day or a mindblowing espresso that supplies you with the ultimate rejuvenation – this efficient gizmo can do that all for you. The most recent iteration comes with a spill-proof carafe, pod compatibility, a digital screen, and a bold setting for robust cups. 

This coffeemaker is perfect for households with individuals who have different choices when it comes to joe. Besides, it may turn out to be the right choice when you are looking for a moderately priced coffee maker that does not compel you to compromise on the quality of the drink. 

Packed securely in recyclable cardboard, the manufacturer ensures safe delivery of the product, keeping trays and other movable parts safe until they reach your doorstep. On its left holds its espresso settings, and the water reservoir is placed on the back left side. The steam dial shares its place with the frother, steam connection nozzle, and the portafilter on the tip. 

The right side of the machine is all about drip coffee settings. You will find the water fill compartment and the filter holder on the top, combined in one section. It swings in and out, making it easy to fill. The additional accessories include a filter for espresso pods, 1 & 2 cups espresso filters, an anti-chlorine filter, a coffee presser, 10-cup spill-proof glass carafe for drip coffee, and a descaler solution. 

What we liked

• Comes with a warming plate  
• Features built-in frother
• The package includes descaling solution and charcoal water filter
• Capable of using pods 
• Features auto shut-off 
• The drip tray is removable 
• Boasts programmable digital timer
• Can make a wide range of coffee drinks 
• Compact design & durable

What we don’t like

• The filter is pretty hard to clean 
• The espresso setting makes a lot of noise

Verdict

In a one-liner, if you are an admirer of versatility and efficiency, De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M may turn out to be absolutely perfect for you. 

6. Nespresso Citiz Coffee and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi with Aeroccino

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This attractive single-serve pod espresso maker comes in a sleek design that easily fits even the tiniest countertop. Besides, it gives you your caffeine fix in just a few seconds. Maintaining the manufacturer’s consistency, it comes with the well-known capsule system of Nespresso, making it capable of brewing avant-garde espressos effortlessly. 

The package includes an integrated milk frother, a complimentary pack of pods, an information folder, and the instruction manual. However, it’s worth remembering that the pack of pods may arrive a few days later. So, it’s worth buying some beforehand to start using your machine as soon as you get it delivered. 

The Nespresso Citiz is utterly simple to use. Even if you have never used a Nespresso device before, you won’t find any difficulty in operating it for the very first time. The capsules are easy to inject and eject; you just need to lift the lever and drop the pod in. Once done, simply put the lever down again. However, you need to keep in mind that Citiz works only with Nespresso’s original line capsules; hence avoid purchasing VertuoLine capsules as it will be simply a waste of money. 

The machine boasts only two buttons. One is for single-shot espresso, and the other is for lungo (double shot). Unlike other Nespresso models, it doesn’t have any standalone power button. Just pushing either of the two buttons will give your maker a start. When you push the buttons, they will illuminate a steady green light in 25 seconds, which indicates that the machine is ready to use. The machine boasts an auto shut-off feature (9 minutes).

What we liked

• Makes grand espresso with perfect crema
• Features auto shut-off
• Compact and low-profile design
• Agile 
• Easy to use and clean
• Real value for money

What we don’t like

• Pretty noisy
• Uses only Nespresso original line capsules
• Using the milk frother can be a little tricky

Verdict

In a nutshell, if you are looking for a convenient, space-saving, and straightforward espresso machine that lets you change the size of your drink in a breeze, you should bet on the Nespresso Citiz. Durability and quality acts do the job a cherry on the top. 

7. Breville Vertuo & Espresso Machine

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Breville Nespresso Vertuo boasts a minimalist design and innovative features. It offers more than just espresso with its whole new way of brewing that involves a laser barcode reading system. With an air of sophistication, this simplistic coffee maker comes with a welcome kit that contains 12 different single-serve capsules.

Its pouring outlet is located in the middle of the front side of the machine, and it’s flanked on both sides with two look-through containers. One of them is for water, and the other can be used for dumping capsules. The convenient control panel sits on the top of the machine. It has two control options – a button to turn on/off the machine and a dial for locking or unlocking the capsule holder.

The machine boasts an auto-detect feature that efficiently identifies the type of coffee blend and adjusts brewing accordingly. It extracts coffee using a patented process of Centrifusion that ensures a fine blend of water and coffee, resulting in the strongest flavor. The machine uses the VertuoLine capsules of 3 different sizes. 

It can read the barcode on the rim of the capsule with its innovative laser technology, making it able to auto-detect the cup size. However, you can modify and reprogram these sizes according to your preference. Reprogramming is also pretty convenient – all you need to do is put a capsule in the machine and keep pressing the on/off button until you get the desired coffee poured into your cup.

The gizmo features a milk frother called Aeroccino – which is typically a hand frother. The machine boasts a pressure pump that has a capacity of 19 bars, which ensures rich and creamy coffee in every brew. The removable water tank can hold 40oz. water and the dumping container can hold up to 13 large capsules. 

What we liked

• New, innovative functionality
• Easy to use and clean
• Reduced brewing cycle 
• Delectable and creamy brew 
• Auto-detect and auto shut-off feature 
• Durable and cost-efficient 

What we don’t like

• Limited availability of coffee capsules
• Not enough flexible
• Can’t use ground coffee

Verdict

In a one-liner, the machine boasts great features for ecologically mindful users, and the list includes auto power-off (9 minutes). Besides, it offers maximum convenience with its innovative auto-detect technology. 

Also read: How to make Espresso by an Espresso Maker

How to buy the best espresso machine under $300?

Now that you already have the options for the best espresso machine under $300, here’s a handful of tips that can make your purchase experience even smoother. 

1. Know the type

When it comes to buying an espresso machine for under $300, you will typically have two choices – manual and semi-automatic. While manual espresso machines lack electrical or electronic components and run on your physical strength to achieve the right pressure, the semi-automatic comes with temperature controls and built-in pumps. This eliminates the need to push the water by yourself. 

If you are keenly interested in learning the art and science of espresso, you should always go for a manual espresso machine. However, if coffee experience and convenience outweigh learning for you, you should rely on semi-automatic ones. So, consider your requirements well before heading to the purchase. 

2. Style of the brew

When it comes to picking up a moderately priced espresso maker, you may come across both versatile and one-style specialist machines. Here, you need to check the type or types of drink you like. This will allow you to make the most of your home espresso brewing experience.

3. Size of the water reservoir

When it comes to espresso machines, the size of the reservoir may vary. If you don’t like refilling your water tank constantly, you will probably need a machine that boasts a bigger reservoir. 

4. Heating up time

If espresso is a part of your busy morning routine, you will surely need a machine that heats up quickly. On the other hand, if you are always ready to manage a relaxed brewing time, you can pick up a machine that takes a bit longer to heat up.

5. Durability

When you are making an investment, you have the right to secure it. Thus, while buying an espresso machine, you must research a lot about its durability. To get a clear idea, you can check out customer testimonials and reviews and pick up the one that has managed to earn most of its customer’s trust because of its durability. 

6. Milk frother

If you like milky cups, you may need a milk frother. So, check well if your machine is equipped with a steaming wand or not. In case you like the machine, but it doesn’t come with a steam wand, you are always left with the option of buying a frother separately.

You might like: Best Espresso Machines under $1000

Accessories that you may need to buy separately 

When you are buying a moderately priced espresso machine, you may need to buy two accessories separately.

Wrapping up

We’re sure that this guide has helped you make an informed choice. Consider all the buying factors and make the purchase so that you leave no room for regretting your decision. Enjoy delicious espressos at home and save considerably by cutting off your trips to Starbucks.

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