7 Espresso Machines Loved by Coffee Professionals

Coffee professionals demand high-quality, reliable espresso machines to craft the perfect cup. Whether you’re an aspiring barista, a seasoned enthusiast, or someone simply looking to elevate their daily coffee ritual, the right espresso machine can make all the difference. These machines don’t just brew coffee—they offer a precise blend of technology, craftsmanship, and design to create a consistently exceptional experience. Choosing the best espresso machine involves balancing features, ease of use, and budget to meet your specific needs.

This guide highlights seven espresso machines beloved by coffee professionals for their performance and reliability. Ranging from fully manual setups to machines with advanced automation, each model has something unique to offer. We’ll explore the features, benefits, and considerations for each machine, ranked from 7 to 1. Whether you’re investing in your first high-quality espresso maker or upgrading to a professional-grade model, this list will help you make an informed decision.

7. Diletta Mio Espresso Machine

Price: ~$2599.99
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The Diletta Mio is a powerhouse designed for serious coffee enthusiasts. Its dual boiler and PID temperature control provide precise brewing and steaming. Built with a robust stainless-steel body, this machine is made to last.

Why It’s Loved:

  • Dual boiler for simultaneous brewing and steaming
  • PID temperature control for precision
  • Sturdy, professional-grade build

Considerations:

  • Expensive and better suited for advanced users
  • Larger size may not fit in smaller kitchens

6. Jura E8 Automatic Coffee Machine

Price: ~$2549.99
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The Jura E8 blends luxury with ease of use, offering fully automatic functionality for effortless brewing. It features a high-quality grinder and advanced milk frothing technology, making it ideal for espresso and milk-based drinks.

Why It’s Loved:

  • Fully automatic operation for convenience
  • Exceptional milk frothing system
  • High-quality grinder for consistent results

Considerations:

  • Premium price point
  • Limited customization compared to manual machines

5. Gaggia Classic Pro

Price: ~$548.99
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The Gaggia Classic Pro is a favorite among beginner baristas for its simplicity and reliable performance. It combines traditional aesthetics with a durable design, offering excellent espresso quality without overwhelming features.

Why It’s Loved:

  • Compact and durable stainless-steel build
  • User-friendly for beginners
  • High-quality espresso at an affordable price

Considerations:

  • No built-in grinder, so you’ll need a separate one
  • Requires some practice to perfect the brewing process

4. Breville Barista Touch Impress

Price: ~$1449.95
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The Breville Barista Touch Impress offers a sleek, touch-screen interface with customizable drink settings. It combines a built-in grinder and advanced milk frothing for a seamless brewing experience.

Why It’s Loved:

  • Intuitive touch screen for easy operation
  • Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
  • High-quality milk frothing system

Considerations:

  • Higher price point for its features
  • May not appeal to those seeking a fully manual experience

3. Rancilio Silvia Pro

Price: ~$1990
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The Rancilio Silvia Pro combines professional features with home convenience. Its dual boiler and PID temperature control ensure consistent performance, while its compact design makes it suitable for smaller kitchens.

Why It’s Loved:

  • Dual boiler for precise brewing and steaming
  • Compact yet professional-grade design
  • High-quality construction for durability

Considerations:

  • Expensive for home use
  • Steeper learning curve for beginners

2. Breville Barista Express Impress

Price: ~$774
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The Breville Barista Express Impress is a top choice for those seeking a balance of automation and manual control. Its built-in grinder and manual steam wand offer flexibility, while the sleek design fits seamlessly into any kitchen.

Why It’s Loved:

  • Built-in conical burr grinder for convenience
  • Compact design suitable for most kitchens
  • Manual steam wand for professional-quality milk frothing

Considerations:

  • Limited automation compared to fully automatic models
  • Grinder settings may take some trial and error to perfect

1. Ascaso Steel UNO PID Programmable Espresso Machine

Price: ~$1895
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The Ascaso Steel UNO PID is the ultimate choice for coffee professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its PID temperature control and volumetric programming deliver consistent, barista-quality results. Built with eco-friendly materials, this machine is both stylish and sustainable.

Why It’s Loved:

  • PID temperature control for precision brewing
  • Programmable volumetric settings for consistency
  • Durable and environmentally conscious construction

Considerations:

  • Premium price point
  • Best suited for experienced users

Final Thoughts

Investing in an espresso machine that professionals trust is more than just buying a kitchen appliance—it’s about bringing the art of coffee making into your home. These seven machines represent a spectrum of options, from user-friendly designs for beginners to feature-rich models that satisfy even the most demanding baristas. Each machine excels in its own way, offering a mix of performance, durability, and style to enhance your coffee experience.

Whether you’re drawn to the eco-conscious design of the Ascaso Steel UNO PID or the versatility of the Breville Barista Express Impress, this guide ensures there’s a machine to match your preferences and skills. Selecting the right espresso machine is an investment in quality, flavor, and craftsmanship that will elevate every cup you brew. No matter which one you choose, these machines guarantee the satisfaction of café-quality coffee from the comfort of your own home.

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Quote of the week

“Espresso is to Italy, what champagne is to France.”
Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord