The first thing to note is that there are different types of espresso machines: fully-automatic, semi-automatic, and manual. As the name implies, fully-automatic machines are like planes on auto-pilot; it grinds your coffee, packs the grounds, and brews espresso with just a click of a button. On the other hand, semi-automatic models will require some leg work, such as filling a portafilter, aka a holder for ground espresso, and tamping your grounds down.
The final verdict will come down to you. Delicious espresso depends on how you like the bean's bitterness, acidity, and aromatics, saysOne things for certain: the Well+Good team loves their coffee, so we put seven espresso machines to the test. Ahead, you'll find machines made espresso-ly for you.The Breville Barista Express Impress is probably as close to a professional espresso machine as you can get—without having to deal with a professional espresso machine.