5+ BEST LARGE HOME ESPRESSO MACHINES

Are you looking for a larger-than-life espresso machine for your counter at home?

If your answer to that question is yes, then this guide is for you. In this guide, we’ll discuss the basics of espresso machines and show you the best large home espresso machines.

Here’s what you can expect to learn:

• Basic espresso machine information
• How you’ll know which machine is right for you
• Our picks for the best large home espresso machines

BASIC ESPRESSO MACHINE INFORMATION

MACHINE TYPES

The espresso machine’s type will have the greatest influence on how you use it every day, so it’s important you understand the types to decide which will be most comfortable for you.

Most of the time, the kinds of espresso machines you find will be automatic or semiautomatic.

Semiautomatic machines mean you’ll need to completely control the length of the brew cycle, choosing when to stop it. Some skill is necessary to ensure you brew for the right length of time consistently, so this type of machine may take longer for beginners to learn.

The upside to semiautomatic models, though, is that the level of control they provide grants seasoned baristas plenty of room for experimentation because they can easily pull longer or shorter shots.

But if a semiautomatic machine sounds intimidating, you may prefer an automatic one, which will handle dosing for you. Once you place the portafilter and start the extraction, the machine will stop by itself when it’s done.

Of course, this means it’s easier to learn how to use an automatic machine and you’ll get uniform shots every time. 

The main downsides to automatic machines are that their advanced features warrant a higher price and they don’t give you the same amount of control as semiautomatic ones.

HEAT EXCHANGE VS DUAL BOILER

There are many debates out there about heat exchange and dual boilers. If you’re new to espresso-making, however, you’re probably wondering: 

What does heat exchange or dual boiler mean? 

The boiler is the part of the machine that keeps your water up to temperature and provides you the power to steam your milk.

Some espresso machines with only one boiler will only allow you to brew or steam – not both at the same time. Both heat exchange and dual boilers are built to bypass this issue and make simultaneous steaming and brewing accessible.

Dual boiler designs have one boiler for steaming water and one for brewing water. This results in a powerful build, but one that can also be a bit more expensive.

Heat exchange boilers have a tube in the boiler that carries brewing water to the group and stores steaming water outside of the tube. These are energy-efficient designs, as only one boiler needs to be kept warm.

POUR-OVER VS DIRECT-CONNECT

Espresso can’t be made without water, and there are two main ways this water is supplied to your machine: pour-over and direct-connect.

Pour-over machines have tanks that you need to refill yourself as they run low. One of the greatest benefits of this type is the mobility – because they don’t have to be hooked up to a water line, these machines can work anywhere.

The biggest drawback is that a pour-over model will require greater water tank maintenance. We do recommend using water filters and softeners with this type of espresso machine.

Just like their name, direct-connect machines connect right into your water line. If you were worried that refilling your water tank sounded troublesome, direct-connect is the solution, because these machines fill themselves automatically.

The main disadvantage is that the convenience of this design can add up to a slightly higher price.

HOW YOU’LL KNOW WHICH MACHINE IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Everyone has a unique situation in their homes, and there isn’t a single espresso machine that’s the absolute best for every kind of situation.

That’s why you should consider what makes your circumstances specific to you, and consider how each machine you look at would factor into those circumstances.

You can start by thinking about the following:

• Price
• Size
• User-friendliness

PRICE

Price is usually at the top of our lists when we start shopping. No one wants to spend more than they have to on something, so we always look for good deals.

When you begin researching espresso machines, a low cost will likely be something you include on your list of desired qualities. It’s important that you spend what you can afford.

But it’s also equally important to balance price considerations with the features of each machine. The good thing is, there are a wide variety of machines available with a huge range of prices, so you’ll be able to find something in your ideal range with many features you require.

The bottom line here is: the right espresso machine for you will be one that’s within your budget, but also comes with features you need.

SIZE

Many homes today are packed with all kinds of appliances, so mapping out your available counter space is another good step to take when considering an espresso machine.

You’ll want to make sure your purchase fits into your layout. Measure your space in advance, and compare it with the dimensions of each machine you look at.

That way, you won’t end up with an espresso machine that won’t fit where you need it to.

USER-FRIENDLINESS

Do you have experience with espresso machines? 

If you don’t, how easy a specific one is to use will be something else to consider. Automatic machines are fantastic for beginners because of their control over the brewing cycle. 

They allow you to enjoy high-quality shots every day even if you have little or no experience as a barista.

But if you do have some experience and want room to experiment, a semiautomatic espresso machine is perfect for you. By exercising maximum control over the brew cycle, you’ll be able to play with the concentration and flavor profiles of each shot.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance machine, you might also want to look at direct-connect models. Because they’re connected to your water line, you won’t ever need to worry about the water tank running dry while you’re in the middle of making a drink.

On the other hand, you may need a machine that can easily move anywhere. In that case, a pour-over model will suit you well.

BEST LARGE HOME ESPRESSO MACHINES

ROCKET DUAL BOILER R58

As a manufacturer, Rocket is well-known for packing advanced features into attractive packages, and the Rocket Dual Boiler R58 is a shining example of this.

Its energetic dual boiler built will give you the ability to steam and brew back-to-back drinks for even a whole household of people craving espresso. If you find refilling the water tank yourself becomes an issue, you also have the option of converting the R58 to a direct-connect machine.

• Majesty Coffee Price: $3,000
• Machine Type: Semiautomatic
• Boiler Type: Dual boiler
• Plumbing: Pour-over
• Dimensions: 16.25 inches high, 12.25 inches wide, 17.5 inches deep
• Plumb-in Convertibility:  Enjoy the best of both worlds with the R58’s ability to convert to a direct-connect machine if you ever find you’re tired of the pour-over configuration.
• Rotary Pump: Need to make espresso in the morning without waking a sleeping household? The R58’s pump is incredibly quiet, so you won’t disrupt your house.
• Low Water Sensor: If you’re operating the R58 as a pour-over machine, it will let you know when it needs a refill so you don’t damage your machine by running it dry.

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LA SPAZIALE S1 VIVALDI 2

If you’re looking for a swift machine that can make a lot of espresso in a short time, the La Spaziale S1 Vivaldi 2 is one to pay attention to.

With an output capacity of up to 20 espressos per hour, you’ll have no problems making plenty of shots for yourself or even several guests comfortably. Since it’s an automatic machine, you’ll also be able to focus on other tasks or even just sit back and relax while it takes care of brewing the espresso for you.

• Majesty Coffee Price: $2,575
• Machine Type: Automatic
• Boiler Type: Dual boiler
• Plumbing: Direct-connect
• Dimensions: 15 inches high, 16.5 inches wide, 16.5 inches deep
• Programmable Passive Pre-Infusion: Pre-infusion takes your espresso to the next level by helping guarantee an even extraction. With the ability to program the pre-infusion stage to last anywhere from 1 to 8 seconds, you’ll be able to tailor each shot to your tastes.
• Electronic Boiler Refill: You won’t need to manually set the boiler to refill, as the Vivaldi 2 will refill its boiler by itself.
• Diagnostic System:  If there’s ever a system failure, the machine will let you know so you can make any corrections necessary right away.

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NUOVA SIMONELLI MUSICA

Those searching for an espresso machine to be an eye-catching centerpiece will find their match in the Nuova Simonelli Musica.

Of course, the Musica is more than eye candy. Optional LED edges make it so you can use this machine even in a near-dark kitchen as you get ready in the morning, while its pre-infusion system ensures the espresso you get on the way to work is as tasty as it can be.

• Majesty Coffee Price: $2,245 (Pour-over without LEDs), $2,515 (Pour-over with LEDs), $2,925 (Direct-Connect without LEDs) or $3,240 (Direct-Connect with LEDs)
• Machine Type: Automatic + manual dosing button
• Boiler Type: Heat exchange
• Plumbing: Available as direct-connect or pour-over
• Dimensions: 17 inches high, 16 inches wide, 13 inches deep
• Pre-Infusion System: By soaking the espresso gently, this boosts a balanced extraction. If you’re looking for a professional-level espresso from home, the Musica’s pre-infusion system is the key.
• Programmable Hot Water Nozzle: Do you like hot teas or Americanos? By programming the amount of water you need in advance, you can save time on making these drinks with the Musica’s hot water nozzle.
• Optional LED Edges: The Lux configuration of the Musica comes with LED edges that make it possible to work safely with little light. 

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LA SPAZIALE S1-DREAM 

The La Spaziale S1-Dream is the perfect espresso machine for those who don’t have much experience or are just too tired to focus on making espresso in the morning or after work.

It comes with a memory card reader and writer that will allow you to write up to four coffee profiles beforehand that you can access for easy use later. You’ll even be able to program the duration of pre-infusion in advance, so you can get your favorite flavors every time with the push of a button.

• Majesty Coffee Price: $2,395
• Machine Type: Automatic
• Boiler Type: Dual boiler
• Plumbing: Direct-connect
• Dimensions: 15 inches high, 16.5 inches wide, 16.5 inches deep
• Memory Card Reader and Writer: Program up to 4 coffee profiles ahead of time, so you can have your favorite drinks at your fingertips.
• Adjustable and Programmable Hot Water Spigot: Set the amount of water you need for a hot tea in advance, so the right amount of water is dispensed every time.
• Shot Counter and Timer: If you ever use the semiautomatic button to pull longer or shorter shots, you can use the built-in timer on the machine to gauge the time rather than having to keep an eye on your smartphone.

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NUOVA SIMONELLI OSCAR 2

Anyone needing a reliable espresso machine on a budget should take a look at the Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2. 

Durable stainless steel casing make it both sturdy and polished in appearance, while its dependable heat exchange boiler has a low heat-up time, allowing you to begin brewing espresso even sooner after you turn it on. It even comes with a cup-warming shelf right on top that doubles as storage space for your mugs.

• Majesty Coffee Price: $1,295
• Machine Type: Semiautomatic
• Boiler Type: Heat exchange
• Plumbing: Pour-over
• Dimensions: 16 inches tall, 16 inches wide, 12 inches deep
• Stainless Steel Body: On top of looking professional, the Oscar 2’s stainless steel body is long-lasting.
• Cup Warmer: Keep your cups toasty, so your drinks won’t be rapidly cooled by being poured into ice-cold cups.
• Extended Articulating Steam Arm: Need to froth more milk? Not a problem for the Oscar 2, with a longer steam arm that can reach farther into large milk pitchers.