10 BEST PROFESSIONAL ESPRESSO MACHINES FOR HOME (HIGH END PICKS)

 

Are you searching for a way to get barista-quality espresso drinks without the costly coffee shop trips?

The answer is purchasing a high-end espresso machine for your own home. While it initially may seem like a steep expenditure, over time, you can really save money that would otherwise be spent on expensive boutique beverages from shops.

If you’re interested in finding out which espresso machine you should get, this guide is for you. We’ve written this guide to show you the best professional espresso machines for homes. 

This is what we’ll cover:

• Different espresso machines options (and what they mean for you)
• How to choose the perfect espresso machine for your home
• Our picks for the best professional espresso machines for homes

Want to see more professional-level espresso machines? Take a look at our guide to the best commercial espresso machines.

DIFFERENT ESPRESSO MACHINE OPTIONS

AUTOMATIC, SEMIAUTOMATIC, OR SUPERAUTOMATIC

The basic type of your espresso machine is going to shape how easy or difficult it is for you to use and how much control it gives you over each shot.

You’ll get the most control on semiautomatic machines. By pushing a button or pulling a lever, you start and stop brewing the espresso at whichever time you choose.

Because the length of the brew cycle is so vital to the flavor of the espresso, it can take some learning before you’re making great-tasting shots every time on this type of machine. 

Yet this amount of control and learning curve are some of the reasons why experienced baristas love these machines. Anyone who can make a great shot of espresso on a semiautomatic machine can rightfully be proud.

Automatic machines are friendlier for beginners. On this type of machine, users push a button to start brewing, then let the machine end the cycle itself at the ideal time.

This design helps promote consistency, as even beginners will be able to make shots like the pros. Flexibility to experiment is more restricted on automatic machines generally, though, unless you purchase a model that also comes with a manual dosing option.

You can picture automatic machines as a sort of bridge between semiautomatic and superautomatic machines. Superautomatic machines up the automation to a new level – they not only handle brewing espresso, but frothing the milk and grinding the beans, as well.

You’ll get an unprecedented level of uniformity on one of these machines, regardless of the proficiency of its user. There’s less room for human error here, and it truly shows in the end result.

Choose a superautomatic machine if you’re a beginner who wants the best drinks possible, and your budget allows for it. But if the idea of the drink-making process being completely automated doesn’t appeal to you, this type is not a good match for you. 

HEAT EXCHANGE, DUAL, AND SINGLE BOILER SYSTEMS

After machine type, the boiler design will have the next biggest impact on both the cost and function of your espresso machine. A little research on your part can go a long way.

One common design you’ll see in home espresso machines are single boiler systems. These implement a single boiler that handles both steaming and brewing.

It’s an affordable and energy-efficient design, but it’s not without its flaws. The biggest one is that it cannot steam and brew at the same time, which means it will take you longer to make a cappuccino or a latte.

Heat exchange (also called HX) boilers overcome this flaw in single-boiler systems through use of a small pipe in the boiler that delivers brewing water to the group while steaming water is kept outside the pipe. 

This design has all the energy-efficiency and rapid heat-up time of a single-boiler system while allowing you to steam and brew simultaneously. Their only real drawback is apparent when you compare them with dual boiler designs, which are typically stronger.

Dual boiler systems use two boilers to accommodate steaming and brewing. This extra boiler usually leads to more powerful steam generation, contributing to faster milk foaming.

With this power, however, comes a normally higher price and a slightly increased warm-up time. 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT MACHINE FOR YOUR HOME

Just because an espresso machine could be used in a business or is considered a “commercial-grade” espresso machine doesn’t mean that it will automatically be a good fit for your home.

Aside from its ability to fit into a coffee shop or other business, there are many other traits that will result in a particular machine being better or worse for you.

So how do you choose the perfect machine for your home? 

Start by asking yourself questions like this:

• Does your espresso machine need to be a certain size?
• Does your home have a specific décor scheme your machine needs to fit into?
• How easy to use would you like your espresso machine to be?
• Do you have a range of costs your espresso machine should fall within?

SIZE

Most homes just don’t have as much space as businesses do. Those looking to add an espresso machine to their own kitchen will need to account for their available space more strictly than a business owner would need to.

Before you buy any espresso machine, examine different spots you have available for one and measure these spots. Then compare the dimensions of your open spaces with the dimensions of your espresso machine.

This will help you guarantee your purchase fits right at home where you need it to.

LOOK

Your home is your castle, and you decorate it accordingly. 

You can take this into consideration when you look at espresso machines. Many of them are designed to fit particular looks, and chances are, you’ll find one that blends right in to your home.

It’s possible, though, that you want an espresso machine that stands out. If that’s the case, don’t worry – there are plenty of espresso machines built to be dazzling centerpieces.

EASE OF USE

One pivotal factor for you to examine is your machine’s ease of use.

Determine your skill level in espresso machine operation, as well as that of anyone else who might be using your machine. Are you or your family espresso beginners, or are you comfortable in espresso-making?

If your situation reflects the former, you’ll want a machine that’s as user-friendly as possible. Look to automatic or even superautomatic machines specifically created to be accessible to even novices. 

On the other hand, if you’re comfortable using an espresso machine or are willing to put in the time learning to master the craft, a semiautomatic machine will help you hone your skills. They’re also an excellent choice if you just don’t like the idea of your machine having more control over your espresso’s development. 

COST

You’re most likely looking for the best deal you can get, and that’s not an issue. 

Ultimately, the espresso machine you choose should be one that doesn’t cost you more than you can comfortably afford. Because of this, it’s a wise idea to draw up a range of costs that are within your budget.

However, there’s a line to walk here between being economically conscious and blinded by price. Don’t focus on the price tag only – make sure you also factor in the features of each machine, deciding which features are absolutely necessary, which are just desirable, and which ones you don’t need at all. 

When you’ve balanced cost with your list of must-have features, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in an espresso machine.

BEST PROFESSIONAL ESPRESSO MACHINES FOR HOMES

Victoria Arduino Prima

The Victoria Arduino Prima is a professional-grade espresso machine that is perfect for home use. It is designed to deliver high-quality espresso shots with ease and consistency. Here are some of the features and benefits of the Victoria Arduino Prima:

• Advanced Technology: The Prima is equipped with advanced technology that makes it easy to use and operate. It has a digital display that allows you to program and adjust the temperature, pressure, and other settings to achieve the perfect shot every time.
  
  
• High-Quality Construction: The Prima is made with high-quality materials and components that ensure durability and longevity. It has a stainless steel body that is resistant to rust and corrosion, and it comes with a double-spouted portafilter, a single-spouted portafilter, and a metal tamper.
  
  
• Easy to Clean: The Prima is designed to be easy to clean and maintain. It comes with a cleaning pack that includes a microfiber towel and triple, double, single, and blank baskets. You can easily remove and clean the portafilters and baskets, and the machine has a built-in cleaning cycle that makes it easy to keep it clean and hygienic.
  
  
• Great Value: The Prima is priced competitively compared to other professional-grade espresso machines. It offers excellent value for money, and it is a great investment for anyone who loves espresso and wants to enjoy high-quality shots at home.
  
  

Overall, the Victoria Arduino Prima is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a professional-grade espresso machine for home use. It is easy to use, durable, and delivers consistent and high-quality shots every time.

Lelit Bianca Dual Boiler

The Lelit Bianca Dual Boiler is a top-of-the-line espresso machine designed for home baristas who are passionate about creating the perfect cup of espresso. This Italian-made machine features a unique combination of old-school design and modern innovation, making it a true game-changer in the world of home espresso brewing.

One of the standout features of the Lelit Bianca is its dual boilers, which provide unparalleled stability and temperature precision. The machine also boasts a thermosiphon brew group, which ensures consistent water temperature throughout the brewing process. This, in turn, results in a more flavorful and aromatic cup of espresso.

Another unique feature of the Lelit Bianca is its flow control paddle, which allows the user to manually adjust the brew pressure while extracting. This feature gives the user more control over the brewing process and allows them to experiment with different brewing techniques to achieve the perfect cup of espresso.

The Lelit Bianca also comes equipped with a built-in PID and shot timer, which can be direct plumbed or run on its built-in reservoir. The machine is also designed with a clean and sleek look, both inside and out, and features beautiful walnut wood accents.

Overall, the Lelit Bianca Dual Boiler is an excellent choice for home baristas who are serious about their espresso brewing. Its combination of advanced features, precision temperature control, and unique design make it a standout option in the world of professional-grade espresso machines.

Nuova Simonelli Musica

Nuova Simonelli Musica is a high-end espresso machine that is perfect for home or small coffee corners. It is a single group coffee machine with a simple but professional design that delivers an espresso that tastes like it comes from a bar.

The Musica is an automatic machine that is programmed to end the brew cycle at the correct time once you initiate it. It does so through volumetric dosing, which means it measures the amount of espresso that has been brewed. This feature ensures that you get a consistent shot every time you brew.

The Musica has a sleek and modern design that will look great in any kitchen or coffee corner. It comes in two colors: black and black lux (LED illuminated edges). You can choose between a pour-over or direct connect option, depending on your preference.

The Musica has a number of features that make it stand out from other espresso machines in its class. These include:

• Heat exchange boiler: allows you to brew and steam simultaneously
• Pre-infusion: ensures that the coffee is evenly saturated before extraction
• Cup warmer: keeps your cups warm and ready for use
• Easy to use controls: the Musica has intuitive controls that make it easy to brew the perfect shot every time

Overall, the Nuova Simonelli Musica is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-end espresso machine for their home or small coffee corner. Its automatic features and sleek design make it a standout option in its class.

Nuova Simonelli Oscar II

The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is a semi-automatic espresso machine that is perfect for home baristas and small businesses. It is a top-line and highest-quality machine that comes with advanced commercial espresso machine features at an affordable price.

One of the standout features of the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is its rugged premium design. This machine is built to last and can be used for a long time. It allows you to brew and steam simultaneously, which is still missing in most modern espresso machines.

The machine comes with a soft infusion system and programmable timed dosing, which allows for easy machine operation and high-quality lattes. It also has powerful steaming capabilities, which is essential for creating the perfect milk foam for your cappuccinos and lattes.

The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is available in both 2-liter and 3-liter versions, making it suitable for different needs. The 2-liter version is perfect for home baristas, while the 3-liter version is ideal for small-medium restaurants and cafes.

In terms of pricing, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is priced at $1,495.00, which is a reasonable price for a machine of this quality. It also comes with free delivery and a secure payment system, making it a hassle-free purchase.

Overall, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is an excellent option for those looking to upgrade their espresso routine. Its advanced features, rugged design, and affordable price make it a top choice for home baristas and small businesses alike.

Rocket Espresso R58 Cinquantotto

The Rocket Espresso R58 Cinquantotto is a professional-grade espresso machine that is perfect for home use. It is a double boiler machine with separate boilers for steaming milk and brewing coffee. This allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, which is a must-have feature for milk-based drinks lovers.

The R58 Cinquantotto boasts a 58mm E61 group head, which is known for its excellent temperature stability, allowing for better extraction. It also has a PID temperature control system, which means that you can precisely control the temperature of the water, ensuring that your coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature.

One of the standout features of the R58 Cinquantotto is its quick recovery time. This means that you can brew multiple shots of espresso in quick succession without having to wait for the machine to heat up again. It also has a built-in shot timer, which is a useful feature for those who like to experiment with their coffee brewing.

The R58 Cinquantotto is made from high-quality materials and has a sleek stainless steel finish. It has a water line-ready rotary pump, which means that you can connect it directly to your water supply, making it easy to use. It also has a low water sensor, which alerts you when the water level is running low, preventing the machine from running dry.

Overall, the Rocket Espresso R58 Cinquantotto is an excellent choice for those who are serious about their coffee. It is a high-quality machine that is built to last and is perfect for home use. Its dual independently operated PID controlled boilers, along with its other features, make it an excellent investment for any coffee lover.

Rocket Appartamento

The Rocket Appartamento is a prosumer espresso machine that has been gaining popularity among coffee enthusiasts. It is a heat exchanger machine that uses a vibratory pump to deliver water to the grouphead.

One of the standout features of the Rocket Appartamento is its design. It has a sleek and compact design that makes it perfect for small kitchens or apartments. The machine is available in a variety of colors, including white, copper, and black, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their home decor.

In terms of performance, the Rocket Appartamento delivers consistent and high-quality espresso shots. It uses a heat exchanger system, which allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming. The machine also has a large water reservoir, which means users can make multiple drinks without having to refill the tank.

The Rocket Appartamento has a few other features that make it a great choice for home baristas. It has a commercial-grade E61 grouphead, which ensures temperature stability and even extraction. The machine also comes with a high-quality tamper and portafilter, which ensures consistent shots every time.

Overall, the Rocket Appartamento is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality prosumer espresso machine that is both stylish and functional. Its compact design, consistent performance, and high-quality components make it a great addition to any home coffee setup.

Pros	Cons
Compact and stylish design	No PID control
High-quality components	Higher price point
Commercial-grade E61 grouphead
Large water reservoir
Simultaneous brewing and steaming

Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo is a compact heat exchanger machine that is well-suited for those who are tight on countertop space. It measures just 16 inches tall and less than a foot wide, and weighs only 46 pounds, making it easy to move and adjust.

This professional-grade espresso machine features an E61 group head, which is known for its temperature stability and ability to produce consistent shots of espresso. The Andreja Premium Evo also comes with a 1.6-liter copper boiler, a 52-watt Ulka vibratory pump, and a 1400-watt heating element, all of which work together to produce quality espresso shots with ease.

One of the noteworthy features of the Andreja Premium Evo is its swivel "no burn" steam arm and swivel water tap, both of which are made of stainless steel. The machine also comes with two pressure gauges, one for the boiler pressure and another for brew pressure, allowing the user to monitor the machine's performance and make adjustments as needed.

The Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo also has a telescoping coffee spigot, which can be adjusted to accommodate different cup sizes and heights. The machine's milk frothing system is also noteworthy, as it produces rich, creamy foam that is perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.

Overall, the Quick Mill Andreja Premium Evo is a reliable and high-quality espresso machine that is perfect for home baristas who want to produce professional-grade espresso shots in the comfort of their own homes.

Quick Mill Silvano Evo

The Quick Mill Silvano Evo is a popular choice for those who want a professional-grade espresso machine at home. It has a sleek stainless steel design that looks great on any kitchen counter. With advanced features like PID temperature control and a pump pressure gauge, this machine offers high-quality performance at an affordable price.

Form Factor and Aesthetic

The Silvano Evo has a compact footprint, making it a great choice for those with limited counter space. Its stainless steel case is polished to a bright gleam, with strong square sides and a simple front panel that give it a modern and appealing look. The steam wand extends to the right, making it easy to maneuver into a milk pitcher, but it can also be positioned forward if space is tight.

Brew Quality

The Silvano Evo offers excellent brew quality, thanks to its commercial-grade components. It has a powerful 15-bar pump and a large 12-ounce brass boiler that ensures consistent and stable temperature control. The machine also has a pre-infusion feature that wets the coffee grounds before extraction, resulting in a more even extraction and better-tasting espresso.

Customization Options

The Silvano Evo offers a great deal of customization options, allowing users to fine-tune their espresso to their liking. The machine has a PID temperature controller that allows users to adjust the temperature of the boiler, ensuring that the espresso is brewed at the perfect temperature. It also has a pump pressure gauge that allows users to monitor the pressure during extraction, ensuring that the espresso is brewed at the correct pressure.

Ease of Use

The Silvano Evo is easy to use, with simple controls and an intuitive interface. The machine has a large water reservoir that can be easily removed for refilling, and the drip tray is also easy to remove and clean. The machine also has a telescoping coffee spigot that can accommodate different cup sizes, making it easy to brew espresso for one or many people.

Overall, the Quick Mill Silvano Evo is an excellent choice for those who want a professional-grade espresso machine at home. Its advanced features, compact size, and affordable price make it a popular choice among espresso enthusiasts.

Rancilio Silvia Pro X

The Rancilio Silvia Pro X is a dual boiler espresso machine that is ideal for home baristas who want to take their coffee brewing skills to the next level. This machine is an upgrade on the already great Rancilio Silvia model, with many features that make it a solid tool for the home barista.

One of the standout features of the Rancilio Silvia Pro X is its high-powered dual boiler setup. This enables simultaneous brewing and steaming without any loss in temperature, allowing for a more efficient and consistent brewing process. The machine also features a larger portafilter, which is a new addition to the Silvia Pro X model.

The Rancilio Silvia Pro X is built with commercial-grade components, making it a powerhouse in the world of espresso machines. Its advanced features and components make it a force to be reckoned with, and it is sure to impress even the most discerning coffee connoisseur.

Overall, the Rancilio Silvia Pro X is a great choice for home baristas who want a high-quality espresso machine that is both efficient and consistent. With its advanced features and commercial-grade components, this machine is sure to deliver a delicious cup of coffee every time.

Lelit Mara X V2

The Lelit Mara X V2 is a high-end espresso machine designed for home use. It features a heat-exchanger boiler system and a commercial-grade E61 group head, making it capable of producing barista-quality espresso shots.

Features

The Lelit Mara X V2 boasts several features that make it an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for a professional-grade espresso machine for home use. Some of its key features include:

• Heat-exchanger boiler system: This allows the machine to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, without any delay in between.
• Commercial-grade E61 group head: This ensures consistent water temperature and pressure during extraction, resulting in a perfect espresso shot every time.
• PID temperature control: This allows the user to adjust the temperature of the boiler with precision, ensuring optimal brewing conditions for different types of coffee beans.
• Stainless steel construction: This makes the machine durable and easy to clean, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

Specifications

Here are some of the key specifications of the Lelit Mara X V2:

Specification	Value
Boiler Design	Heat Exchanger
Boiler Composition	Stainless Steel
PID Temperature Control	Yes
Water Source	Reservoir
Water Tank Capacity	2.5 liters
Power	1400 watts
Voltage	120 volts
Dimensions (W x D x H)	9" x 16" x 14"
Weight	42 lbs

Price

The Lelit Mara X V2 is priced at $1,699.95, making it one of the more expensive espresso machines on the market. However, its high-quality construction, advanced features, and professional-grade performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy barista-quality espresso shots at home.