Today, I’ll be helping you find the best automatic espresso machine under $1000 with reviews of the top 5 products on the market and a detailed buying guide to walk you through the whole thing!
For most of us coffee lovers, the thought of sipping on that perfect cup of coffee in the morning is what gets us out of bed. But when you realize you’ll have to go to a crowded coffee shop, stand in line for a frustrating while, and overpay for a drink that may or may not hit the spot, you probably feel like crawling back under the covers and never coming out again!
Whether this scenario sounds familiar, you want to buy your first coffee maker, or you’re simply looking for an upgrade to your current beginner machine, then you came to the right place!
So let’s not waste any time and get started!
Table of Contents
5 Top Picks for Best Automatic Espresso Machine Under $1000
After hours of researching and reviewing dozens of espresso machines, we’ve carefully put together a list of the top 6 best automatic espresso machines under $1000 so you can land a reliable yet cost-effective deal.
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- FRESH ESPRESSO FOR EVERY CUP: The professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber. Your choice of regular, specialty or decaf.
- YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY: A manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks – just the way you like them.
- CONSISTENT BREWING EVERY TIME: Each cup is automatically brewed to the perfect temperature, richness and density. And you can customize the settings to ensure its always just the way you like it.
- EASY TO CLEAN AND HANDLE: The compact, extractable brew unit is not only easy to clean, it self-adjusts for one or two shots of espresso.
Last update on 2025-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kicking off our list with a widely popular candidate, the ESAM3300 Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine from established DeLonghi promises a highly customizable and efficient experience thanks to its sophisticated yet user-friendly technology.
The first thing you may notice about this machine is its remarkably compact footprint despite being able to brew 2 cups of coffee at the same time, with dimensions of 15.25 inches × 11 inches × 14.4 inches to save you some valuable counter space.
The control system is also pretty simple to figure out since you can find all 13 settings this machine offers right on the front panel.
You get to adjust the temperature, coffee strength, and cup size ranging from a small espresso to a large cup of 4.25 inches. Moreover, the machine can save your preferred settings so you won’t have to program it every time you need a drink.
The DeLonghi Magnifica Espresso Machine features a unique beans-to-brew system that grinds coffee beans just before brewing to give you a deliciously fresh and aromatic espresso. You can set the grinder to a certain grinding level and it leaves almost no trace behind.
This machine also includes a manual frother to mix together steam and milk, creating a thick, long-lasting foam for your cappuccinos and other textured drinks.
The ESAM3300 Automatic Espresso Machine is equipped with a patented compact boiler designed to deliver efficient heat distribution and produce espressos at a perfect temperature every time.
The stainless steel double boiler is removable so you can easily clean the unit. Also, the water tank, as well as the bean container, are detachable to let you fill and empty the machine without moving its main body.
Pros
- Self-adjustable one or two espresso shots
- Has a manual frother for mixing milk
- Remembers previous settings
- Quiet
- Excellent heat distribution
- Compact design
Cons
- The water tank isn’t very big
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Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is part of the Barista Series that offers all in one espresso machines with integrated grinder to go from beans to espresso in under one minute
- DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Integrated precision conical burr grinder grinds on demand to deliver the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter for your preferred taste with any roast of bean
- OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
- PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction
- MANUAL MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING: The powerful steam wand performance allows you to hand texture microfoam milk that enhances flavor and enables creation of latte art
Last update on 2025-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another highly praised option is Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine which successfully earned thousands of soaring reviews thanks to its many features and high-quality construction.
The Breville the Barista Express features a unique dose-controlled grinding system that grinds a generous amount of 19 to 22 grams of coffee beans right before extraction to let you enjoy a truly fresh and aromatic espresso with a café-like taste, unlike most home machines that use only about 13 grams of ground coffee.
This espresso machine also offers precise temperature control with its integrated digital PID technology that detects any fluctuations in temperature during extraction and works to keep it at a minimum, so the temperature remains within a steady range each use.
If you’re into a creamy texture for your coffee, then you’ll really enjoy the pressure handling of the Barista Express. This unit has a built-in infuser that applies a low-pressure pre-infusion technique to soak and expand the ground beans as evenly as possible, giving you a golden honey creamy extract.
The manual steam wand is also a nice touch to the infuser. It transforms milk into velvety micro-foam which you can use to hand texture your latte, adding some extra fun and flavor to the mix.
To manage all of these operations, you’ll find a front panel with simple and intuitive controls. There’s also a dial that lets you set the grind size despite the type of beans you’re loading.
The Barista Express Espresso Machine from Breville comes in 2 colors; silver and black.
Pros
- Includes pressure gauge
- Excellent frother
- Cleaning reminder light
- Comes with cleaning tools
- Automatic coffee ground dose
Cons
- No water level indicator
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Breville -Nespresso USA VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine
- SINGLE SERVE COFFEE & ESPRESSO MACHINE: Single serve coffee or espresso at the touch of a button. Innovative programs and features such as 25 sec heat up & energy saving automatic shut off.
- COFFEE FOR EVERY OCCASION: Brew better coffee at home with Nespresso's coffee espresso machine! Drink your coffee bold, mild hot, or iced.
- VERSATILE COFFEE MAKER: Brew 4 different cup sizes at the touch of a button (5oz & 8oz coffee, single & double espresso). Pour over ice to create your favorite blend of iced coffee and lattes.
- INCLUDES: One Vertuo Nespresso coffee machine with an extra-large 60 ounce water tank, a 10 count used pods container.
- COMPLIMENTARY GIFT: Each machine includes a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules (capsule assortment may vary from picture).
Last update on 2025-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
On the more affordable side, we have another candidate from Breville which is their Nespresso USA VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine.
If you can’t tell from its name, this machine is a collaborative product from the two companies Breville and Nespresso, you know, makers of single-use yummy Nespresso capsules. That’s why this machine is designed to optimize your brewing experience where you specifically use Nespresso capsules.
The VertuoPlus Espresso Machine adopts a patented extraction technology developed by the folks at Nespresso and known as Centrifusion. This technology allows the blender to spin at incredible speed up to 7000 rotations in one minute, thoroughly mixing ground coffee beans with water to create a perfect cup.
Speaking of cups, this handy machine offers the convenience of making 5 different cup sizes, starting from small espresso shots all the way to Alto cups. Each size has a dedicated type of Nespresso capsules that hold just the right amount of ground to achieve a brew as fresh as possible.
Moreover, the VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine can identify each Nespresso capsule then adjust its own settings to accommodate the specific parameters of this capsule, which means you don’t need to change any settings yourself!
This is all because each capsule has a barcode on its rim that the machine can recognize thanks to an integrated intelligent extraction system.
The controls of the VertuoPlus machine make the entire operation even simpler since there’s actually one button for everything. When the Nespresso capsule is locked in, all the parameters are automatically set, followed by automatic ejection of the capsule after the brew is ready. You’re only required to press the button for the machine to start.
The VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine is available in 3 colors; black, titan, and silver. It also comes with a bonus of 12 different Nespresso Vertuo capsules as a welcome gift.
Pros
- Affordable
- Doesn’t take up much space
- No complicated settings are required
- Comes with 12 complimentary capsules
- Great customer service
Cons
- Works with Nespresso VertuoLine capsules only
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DELONGHI Nespresso Lattissima Pro Original Espresso Machine
- IT'S ALL ABOUT THE FOAM: The De’Longhi Automatic Cappuccino System creates perfectly layered espresso beverages, with dense, rich, long-lasting foam in every cup from start to finish
- NESPRESSO CAPSULE SYSTEM: The ultimate convenience; The recyclable aluminum capsules contain the finest espressos for authentic taste without measuring or cleanup
- ONE TOUCH SIMPLICITY: One button – that’s all it takes to enjoy exceptional espressos, bold cappuccinos, creamy lattes and rich macchiatos; The machine does the rest
- BRINGS OUT MORE FLAVOR: De’Longhi’s patented espresso extraction system creates the ideal flow of water with 19 bars of pressure – the ultimate amount for drawing the most flavor and desired temperature in each cup
- THE PERFECT AMOUNT OF MILK: During the extraction process, the integrated carafe dispenses milk in adjustable levels for taste. Simply remove from the unit to keep freshly refrigerated; The carafe is dishwasher safe
Last update on 2025-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Making a second appearance, DeLonghi offers us its own machine for Nespresso capsules; the Lattissima Pro Original Espresso Machine. Again, if you can’t tell by its name, this machine is designed for Nespresso OriginalLine capsules only.
The Lattissima Pro Original Espresso Machine features an automatic frothing system where it’s all about creating a thick, rich, and long-lasting foam for all sorts of layered espresso drinks.
On top of the milk compartment, there’s a regulator knob that lets you adjust the froth texture to your liking. You can also rotate the knob into the ‘Clean’ position to activate the automatic rising of the milk system. Moreover, you can simply remove the milk container and keep it in your fridge until it’s time for the next cup.
The Nespresso Lattissima Pro Original Espresso Machine is also built to bring out more of the ground flavor, thanks to the patented DeLonghi espresso extraction system which utilizes a pump that delivers 19 bars of pressure to produce the ideal flow of water for extracting most flavor and aroma from each capsule.
The built-in Thermoblock heating system allows for a faster heat-up time as it reduces the cold-start heating time to a short few seconds, so you won’t have to wait too long for your perfect espresso beverage.
For extra convenience, this unit is designed to eliminate any contact with milk to make your cleaning job easier. The parts are also dishwasher safe.
If you look at the upper side of this DeLonghi Nespresso machine, you’ll find a sleek digital touchscreen that lets you program the unit in very simple steps. You can choose one of 6 pre-installed settings: Espresso, Lungo, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, warm froth milk, or hot water.
This machine, like the other Nespresso unit on our list, comes with a complementary set of Nespresso capsules as a welcome gift.
Pros
- Intuitive digital touch screen
- 6 beverage settings
- Heats up quickly
- Nespresso capsules gift set
- Water level indicator
Cons
- Works with Nespresso OriginalLine capsules only
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Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker and Cappuccino Machine
- Advanced Functionality: User-friendly interface with easy-to-follow manual
- Efficient Heating: Thermocouple heating system evenly heats the water for piping-hot drinks
- Flexible: Cup tray adjusts to conveniently fit tall and short mugs
- Creamy Froth: Automatic milk frother whips any milk into a light, creamy froth
- One-touch Operation: Creates espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes within minutes
Last update on 2025-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last but not least, the One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker by Mr. Coffee offers great quality and performance at a lower price compared to other items on our list. It’s a wonderful option for budget-conscious coffee lovers looking for a versatile yet affordable automatic espresso machine.
Once you look at this machine, you’ll be instantly greeted by a simple control panel that you can figure out in practically no time. The buttons let you pick either a single or a double shot of espresso, cappuccino, or latte. There’s also a clean button to activate an automatic rinse cycle for easier cleaning.
The One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker features a 19-bar Italian pump that works to deliver an ideal pressure of water flow for a thorough extraction of flavors from coffee grounds. Additionally, the Thermocouple heating system allows for quick and even heating of water to save time.
This machine is equipped with an automatic milk frother that whips any type of milk, such as whole, skimmed, soy, or almond, into a light creamy foam. It’s big enough to serve 6 cappuccinos or 3 lattes. Also, the milk reservoir is removable so it’s easier for you to fill, clean, or store the extra milk in your fridge.
Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Machine accommodates 2 espresso cups at once, but it has an adjustable cup tray to fit tall mugs as well.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Very easy to use
- Fits tall cups up to 6.5 inches if you remove the tray
- Removable milk container
- Efficient frother
- Takes up little space
Cons
- The espresso isn’t as strong as other candidates
- No warning for adding water
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Why Buy an Automatic Espresso Machine?
Well, perhaps the better question is: how much time you got on your hands? You see, compared to other types of espresso machines, such as manual or semi-automatic, the automatic espresso machine is the clear winner when it comes to time.
For example, if you’re using a manual espresso machine, you’ll be doing pretty much all the work including grinding and pouring the coffee. As for the semi-automatic type, the machine will, in fact, heat up and pour the coffee for you, but you’ll still have to grind the beans first or at least prepare a batch beforehand.
This all takes time which may not be available on the days when you just can’t spare the extra 15 minutes of prepping and grinding. Personally, that’s the story of my life so I need a machine that simply has my coffee ready on time without wasting mine.
An automatic espresso machine actually does all that and more. You won’t need to do anything more than press a few buttons and the machine will do all the rest.
Moreover, some machines remember the previous settings of your coffee, so you won’t even have to re-do them and you can enjoy the same delicious cup of coffee every time you brew some ground. (My type of consistency!)
Additionally, you don’t actually need to know any barista-level skills to learn how to make yourself a cup of coffee. Most automatic espresso machines are pretty much self-explanatory and you can easily figure them out after a couple of tries.
What to Look for in an Automatic Espresso Machine?
When shopping for the best automatic espresso machine under $1000, there are several points that you need to consider before spending your money if you want to make a worthy investment:
Capacity
The first thing you should be thinking about is how many people you want to be able to serve?
If you live alone or it’s just you and your significant other, then perhaps you should consider an automatic espresso machine that’s on the smaller side.
However, if you got yourself a big family with many coffee lovers, then you’d definitely want to look for a bigger machine that won’t have you refilling its water pot rather than enjoying your cup of coffee!
Either way, you want an espresso machine with a capacity suitable for accommodating the average number of people at your house. We do recommend you go bigger than your exact need (even if you live) alone because you want to be ready to serve friends or family when they come over.
Programs
When it comes to automatic espresso machines, programs usually refer to the types of drinks the machine can make.
You actually get quite a range in this aspect, with some low-budget simple machines brewing a nice classic espresso shot only, as well as other more sophisticated machines that incorporate milk to make frothy drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes.
Dimensions
You may not realize this particular aspect right away, but the dimensions of your espresso machine are very important to observe if you want it to actually fit in your kitchen.
So take the time to look at the measurement of the automatic espresso machine and decide whether it’s the right decision or not. Typically, you want a machine that doesn’t take up half of your counter space, especially if your kitchen is not very roomy.
Temperature
A highly crucial factor in brewing a balanced espresso shot is temperature. If your machine doesn’t run as hot as you’d like, a helpful tip is to preheat your coffee mug or pour some hot water in the cup before brewing.
The idea is to have your cup as warm as possible to prevent the heat of the espresso from traveling to the walls of the mug, ruining its balance.
Cleaning
Finally, automatic or not, your espresso machine should be as easy to clean as possible to save yourself the hassle of washing and scrubbing.
For automatic machines, look for ones with detachable and dishwasher safe parts to make your job smoother. Once you’ve found the best automatic espresso machine for under $1000 (a significant amount to invest), you want to make sure to keep up on cleaning and when it is easier to do so, well, you’re more likely to.
Best Automatic Espresso Machine Under $1000 Wrap-Up
Choosing the best automatic espresso machine under $1000 isn’t a simple task, especially with so many models and features to look through. However, we’re confident that our buying guide and list of the top 5 espresso machines will help you land the perfect deal!
That being said, if you’re searching for a reliable automatic espresso machine with lots of features and amazing temperature handling, then the Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL should be right up your alley!
But if you need something more on the affordable side but offers lots of value for money, then you should check out the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker and Cappuccino Machine