You must be late! The Breville Barista Express is the best cappuccino machine in our opinion and is our top selection overall.
You’ve finally come to the conclusion that you can make a better cappuccino at home than you can buy at Starbucks, have you?
It is really useful to have a machine that makes speciality drinks at home. But which one is the best option for you specifically?
I know how difficult it is to select the ideal model because I’ve been there. However, after conducting much investigation, I was able to locate the most outstanding cappuccino machine that is currently available.
I’ll walk you through this model and a few close follow-ups in this essay that I’m going to share with you.
Continue reading to find out more information!
Best Cappuccino Machine – Our Top 9 Picks
• Breville Barista Express BES870XL (Best Overall)
• Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker (Budget Pick)
• Saeco PicoBaristo Super Automatic Espresso Machine (Best Super Automatic Machine)
• DeLonghi EC155 Espresso And Cappuccino Machine (Simplest Operation)
• Gaggia Classic Pro (Most Compact)
• Mr. Coffee One-Touch (Best For Tall Mugs)
• DeLonghi Magnifica (Best For Easy Maintenance)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus (Best For Pods)
• De’Longhi La Specialista (Fastest Machine)
1. Breville Barista Express BES870XL
The Barista Express is a machine that falls in the middle of the price spectrum and is ideal for both novice and experienced baristas. Because it is so easy to use, even someone who has never done so before won’t be confused. However, it also includes a large number of configuration choices, which ensures that even advanced users won’t find it “boring.”
The built-in burr grinder with 16 different settings should be mentioned first because it’s an important function. Not only does this coffee maker have a price that is not out of reach for most people, but it also combines the functions of a coffee grinder and maker into a single unit. That’s really a good deal!
Coffee-making is simplified by the use of pre-infusion as well as digital temperature control. They do this by assisting the cappuccino machine in reaching the temperature necessary for the most efficient extraction. Those who are new to making cappuccino will find that it is far simpler thanks to these two characteristics.
Despite the fact that this model features a manual steam wand, you should still anticipate having to go through a learning curve. But once you get the hang of it, it won’t take more than a few tries to become second nature. You won’t have to wait too much longer until you get started on your latte art.
The ease of maintenance is another important factor to consider. The device comes equipped with a software that will clean itself, in addition to an indicator that will let you know when it is necessary to remove the accumulation.
Pros
• Despite its small size, the machine’s tank and bean hopper are both rather spacious, reducing the frequency with which you will need to replenish them.
• Because there are settings for both the size of the grind and the amount, you can always produce the exact quantity of coffee that you require at one time.
You won’t need to consult a handbook because the control panel is so straightforward and easy to understand.
• The presence of a guarantee that lasts for one year ensures that you will not receive a faulty or damaged product.
Cons
• If your mug has a low spout, you won’t be able to pour coffee straight into a tall mug.
2. An espresso and cappuccino maker dubbed the Mr. Coffee Café Barista.
It is feasible to locate a reliable device without having to spend an arm and a leg on it. Mr. Coffee is one of those brands that is aware of the characteristics on which they can cut corners in order to allocate more resources to the ones that are of greater significance. That is precisely how Café Barista came into being.
This model was built with milk-based drink aficionados in mind. Although it is possible to produce a standard espresso with this model, its primary strength is in its ability to froth milk. Because it is mechanized, there is no longer any room for error in the coffee-making process.
The user-friendliness of this device’s control panel is another another one of its many strengths. Because there are only three buttons and indicator lights, it is physically impossible to mess up the coffee-making process in any manner.
The fact that the milk reservoir can’t be cleaned in the dishwasher makes me feel a little let down when it comes to maintaining its cleanliness. This indicates that you will need to physically wash it in the sink. There is also no autocleaning mode, but it is not something I would anticipate finding in a machine with such a limited price range anyhow.
Pros
• Because the steaming and foaming processes are automated, you won’t have to lift a finger to prepare your favorite milk-based coffee.
• The user-friendly UI makes brewing coffee simple for even inexperienced users.
• A milk reservoir that is detachable and may be stored in the refrigerator so that it can be used at a later time
• This cappuccino maker is quite a bargain considering the price that it retails for.
Cons
• Preventative maintenance might involve a significant amount of labor.
3. Saeco PicoBaristo Super Automatic Espresso Machine
You will need a machine that is super-automatic if you want the ability to experiment with different flavors and different variations of your cappuccino. In addition, among the many models now available, the PicoBaristo stands out due to the numerous customization choices it provides.
This machine provides a total of eight different pre-programmed espresso-based beverages, one of which being cappuccino. However, if none of them are quite to your liking, you may make adjustments to pretty much anything, from the temperature at which the coffee is brewed to the amount of milk that is used.
After you have perfected your coffee’s customisation, you will have the option to save it to one of six different user profiles. Because of this, you will always be able to produce the drink to its full potential.
Because this model also includes an integrated burr grinder, you can ensure that the grounds you use for brewing are always as fresh as they possibly can be. Ceramic, the material that the grinder is composed of, maintains its sharpness for a very long time and does not impact the flavor of the ground coffee in any way.
It’s always a bonus when something is easy to maintain. The majority of the component pieces are safe to clean in the dishwasher, which is always a convenient feature. The tank is equipped with an Aquaclean filter, which significantly extends the amount of time that passes between descalings, which are performed automatically.
Pros
• The machine takes care of everything, from grinding the beans to creating the foam on top, so all you have to do is relax while you wait for your coffee.
• An automatic cleaning cycle and parts that are safe to clean in the dishwasher make upkeep simple.
• You are able to consume whatever milk-based coffee drink you desire thanks to the pre-programmed beverages and customizable alternatives.
• Because the heating system works so quickly, you may prepare one cup after another without having to wait in between.
Cons
• Due to the fact that the machine is fairly large, there is a possibility that it will not fit under lower cabinets.
4. DeLonghi EC155 Espresso And Cappuccino Machine
Just starting to make coffee beverages with milk as an ingredient?
You are most likely feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of options and configurations that many models come equipped with. And it’s totally fine to go at things at your own pace if that’s what you prefer. Beginner home baristas would benefit greatly from purchasing a machine like as the EC155.
Having a large number of options that may be customized certainly has its benefits. However, a significant number of consumers want their espresso-based beverages to be brewed in the conventional manner, and that is an area in which this model excels. Making coffee couldn’t be simpler than turning a single dial on a coffee maker’s knob.
There is also an option that you can use in place of coffee grounds if you do not wish to bother with them. Additionally, this machine is suitable for use with coffee capsules. Even though I prefer to make my coffee from ground beans, I can’t deny that utilizing pods is much more convenient.
This cappuccino machine features a manual steam wand, which is a feature that appeals to me. To become proficient at foaming, you will need to put in some practice, but it shouldn’t take you more than a few tries to get the hang of it. You’ll be able to experiment with other latte art designs once you have the hang of the basics.
Who would have guessed that such a tiny machine could be such a ferocious racer?
It takes hardly no time at all to warm up, and it is able to continually maintain the ideal temperature so that you can make one cup after another without interrupting the process.
Pros
• The appliance heats up quickly and keeps the temperature stable, allowing you to produce cup after cup of coffee in an instant
• Included in the package is a manual frother, which is simple to operate and gives you the ability to create latte art.
• Both the water tank and the drip tray are simple to remove and can be cleaned in the dishwasher, making routine cleaning and upkeep of this type a breeze.
• This is one of the cappuccino makers that offers the best value for the money on the market.
Cons
• Due to the fact that it is constructed of plastic, its longevity is not comparable to that of models made of metal.
5. Gaggia Classic Pro
This piece of equipment strikes the ideal balance between cost and functionality, as well as simplicity of use and low maintenance requirements. And the cherry on top is that it has a relatively small footprint. This Gaggia cappuccino maker’s measurements are 9.5 inches by 8 inches by 14 inches, which means it can be placed virtually anyplace.
The quality of construction is one aspect in which this brand never disappoints. This is one of the most reasonably priced types, but it still has a solid steel structure, so you can be sure that this device is quite long-lasting.
The machine has only three switches on the control panel: one for the power button, one for the brew button, and one for the steam button. Both of these machines come equipped with a specific indication light that will turn on when it is time to go on to the next stage in the process. You won’t be able to botch that even if you give it your best shot.
The machine comes with a pressurized basket in addition to an unpressurized basket, and both of these baskets are able to accommodate coffee pods. You are free to use either the grounds or the pods whenever you choose because you have the option to swap between the two whenever you please.
Oh, and I almost forgot to mention that this model is available in six different colors.
You can simply match the color of this model with the appliances or cabinets in your kitchen, whether you want to go with something as simple as black and steel or as bold as blue and red. Even while it might not be the most crucial quality, we can all agree that appearance is still quite important.
Pros
• Because of its space-saving design, this device is an excellent choice for tight quarters, such as dormitories and RVs.
• The design of this machine, which is made entirely of steel, ensures that it will have a very long lifespan.
• The used coffee grounds are clumped together by the three-way valve, which makes cleanup much simpler.
• The professional-grade steam wand enables you to perfect your latte art and foam creation skills.
Cons
It takes around five minutes to get to the desired temperature before it can be used.
6. A One-Touch Brewer from Mr. Coffee
The One-Touch machine strikes a healthy balance between the degree of automation it provides and the cost of doing so. This implies that it takes care of the more difficult aspects so that you don’t have to, such as extracting the shot and foaming the milk, saving you time and effort. The One-Touch removes virtually all of the room for error when it comes to preparing coffee.
The machine is easy to operate once you get the hang of it. Because the control panel is made up of a few buttons that each have names and symbols associated with them, there is really no need to ever look inside the handbook.
When compared to the majority of other models that have milk reservoirs, the capacity of the One-Touch is pretty respectable. You may prepare up to six cappuccinos or three lattes with a container that holds 22 ounces of liquid before you need to refill it.
After you have finished brewing coffee, you can separate the milk reservoir and place it in the refrigerator to keep until the next time you make coffee. There is no longer a requirement to continuously pour milk from the bottle into the reservoir, or vice versa.
The adjustable cup tray is always a welcome addition to any establishment. If you take your coffee on the go, pouring it straight into a travel mug is the most efficient way to drink it because it saves you time and prevents you from having to clean additional cups.
Pros
• Each component that may be removed is simple to do so and is safe for the dishwasher.
• The milk reservoir enables you to prepare multiple coffee beverages before you have to refill the reservoir once more.
• If you have an adjustable cup tray, you can pour coffee directly into a mug of any size without having to move the tray.
• Because of the self-cleaning cycle, performing maintenance is as simple as pressing a single button.
Cons
This device’s limited configuration possibilities render it unsuitable for use by users with more experience.
7. DeLonghi Magnifica
The Magnifica has a reasonable amount of personalization options for a computer of its price range. Even while it does the majority of the work, it still gives you enough control over the process that you may consider yourself an at-home barista.
You only have a couple of buttons, a couple of dial knobs, and a number of other controls to work with, but they allow you to construct your drink exactly how you want it. You may adjust virtually every facet of the coffee-making process, from the size of the cup to the temperature.
This model also comes equipped with a burr grinder that provides users with the option to select from among 13 different grind levels. However, if you want to consume coffee that has already been ground, you can always use the second chamber for that purpose.
Manual frothing, on the other hand, is where you can really show off your skills.
Because DeLonghi is aware that it is impossible to create stunning latte art without the use of a wand, they incorporated one into the Magnifica. It’s a wand in the Panarello style, which makes it simple enough for even a novice to use effectively.
I really like how simple it is to take apart and clean each component. Every single detachable part, with the exception of the actual brewing unit, may be cleaned in the dishwasher. Because of this, maintenance is simplified even further. Obviously, I have no grounds for complaint with regard to the self-cleaning function.
Pros
• An automatic shutoff feature conserves power and protects against electrical short circuits.
• You are able to choose between fresh coffee beans and pre-ground coffee thanks to the built-in grinder as well as the grinder-bypass feature.
• The water tank is accessible from the front, which allows you to take it out without having to move the hefty machine.
• With the exception of the brewing unit, every component may be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Cons
• If the spout is low, you won’t be able to pour hot liquid directly into a travel cup.
8. Nespresso VertuoPlus
This model by Nespresso is fantastic if you like the ease of use provided by coffee pods and you should consider purchasing it. The VertuPlus is rather customizable for a cappuccino maker that uses pods; as a result, you may brew a variety of beverages with it and have a new one each time.
This is an extremely portable device that can be set up in just about any location. Because of this, it is an excellent choice for living spaces such as RVs, college dorms, and compact flats. However, a water reservoir that holds sixty ounces is quite a surprise for such a compact machine. That’s the equivalent of fifteen cappuccinos!
Another amazing feature is the adaptability of the location of the water tank within the structure. There are three possible locations for it: on the left side, behind, or in the middle of the two. To put it another way, you have the ability to maximize the potential of the place.
Who doesn’t adore a quick rise in temperature? It won’t take more than a minute and a half to attain the necessary temperature before you can begin the brewing process.
In addition, the system powers down automatically after only nine minutes of being inactive. I really like how it can shut down by itself. Not only does this keep you from having to pay an exorbitant amount for your electricity, but it also stops electrical short circuits from happening.
Pros
This device is ideal for use in areas with limited floor space due to its compact design and flexible configuration of its water tank.
• Because it heats up quickly, you can start brewing coffee almost as soon as you turn it on.
• If you have a large water tank, you will be able to produce a significant number of cappuccinos before you need to replenish it.
• An automatic shutoff mechanism prevents electrical malfunctions and saves money on electricity costs.
Cons
• The device is compatible with only Nespresso capsules.
9. De’Longhi La Specialista
I have to admit that the vintage appearance of the model with its knobs and buttons is the aspect that appeals to me the most about it. However, there are a great number of additional reasons why somebody might wish to acquire La Specialista. This is a highly automatic device that provides luxury functionality while maintaining a reasonable price point.
This model is unique in that it includes two separate heating systems, which is not something that is typically found in machines in this price range. Because you have one thermoblock dedicated to the process of coffee extraction and another dedicated to the process of milk steaming, you may create one cup after another without taking a break.
In point of fact, you do not need to wait at all for the initial temperature to rise. The moment you turn on the machine, it immediately begins heating up and is prepared for use. This indicates that you’ll be able to brew coffee as soon as you open your eyes in the morning.
Additionally, there is a separate spout for hot water located on the La Specialista. This provides you with access to the scalding hot water that is required for an Americano. You also have the option of grabbing some steaming water for your tea without worrying about any coffee residue being left in the cup from the brewing machine.
As a result of the fact that the cappuccino maker comes with an automatic steam wand, you can rest assured that the froth will always be of the highest quality. When you are finished with the milk frothing process, a single knob adjustment will flush any milk residue.
Pros
• The machine is capable of performing a wide range of functions, from grinding to foaming, which guarantees consistent and reliable outcomes.
• You can begin brewing coffee as soon as you turn on the machine thanks to the one-second quick start feature.
• Integrated burr grinder eliminates the need for a separate machine, as it is already included in the product’s design.
• You can create an Americano or get water for brewing tea thanks to a separate hot water spout that is located in the kitchen.
• Using an automated wand ensures that you will always receive the same amount of foam.
Cons
• Due to its size, it may not be suitable for use in kitchens with limited space.
How to Choose the Most Appropriate Cappuccino Machine – A Guide for Customers
When deciding between several various models, the price is one of the most obvious factors that you will need to take into consideration.
But apart from that, what else is significant?
In this section, I’ll go through the things that you should keep in mind when shopping.
Size
This is an obviously significant aspect of the product. If you don’t have enough room on your countertops to put it out on display, what’s the sense in having an expensive coffee machine that’s stored away in its box?
Bear in mind that coffee makers used specifically for making espresso and cappuccino are typically more bigger than other types of coffee makers. Therefore, you will need to measure the available area on your counter to ensure that it will fit.
Cappuccino machines, to their credit, are available in a variety of sizes; hence, regardless of the amount of free space you have, you should have no trouble finding an appropriate model.
The Method of Frothing
There are a few distinct routes you can go when it comes to giving milk its signature frothy texture.
You don’t want to get too involved in the process of creating the cappuccino, do you? Models that come equipped with milk carafes and automatic frothers perform the majority of the job for you.
Both of them are quite simple to use, and all you have to do to see your coffee come to life is click a few buttons on their respective control panels. The primary disadvantage shared by both of these approaches to foaming is the increased level of labor required to clean up after use.
Find a machine that has a wand attached to it if you want to genuinely practice your frothing abilities so you can get better. Less expensive versions typically come with a Panarello wand, which produces satisfactory results regardless of the user’s level of expertise.
The higher-end models typically come equipped with a real steam wand of a commercial-grade quality. The right use of this kind of wand typically has a high learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to produce nicer foam than you could with any machine on the market.
Ease of Operation
The process of searching for solutions by reading through the handbook certainly takes away from the enjoyment of preparing coffee.
A control panel must to be easy to understand and move around in a short amount of time. Imagine having to click twenty different buttons in a precise order first thing in the morning when you’re just half awake.
Bear in mind that, in general, fully automatic devices are more easier to use than semi-automatic ones. This is something to keep in mind.
To prepare coffee from scratch using an automatic machine, all you have to do is press a few buttons. On the other hand, semi-automatics need you to be more engaged in the shooting process. This includes things like pulling the shot and heating the milk, for instance.
Maintenance
When it comes to cleaning and servicing, cappuccino machines require a lot of attention. After each cycle of brewing, you must first remove any surplus grounds from the portafilter and then throw away any used grounds.
Then, in order to prevent milk from accumulating, you will need to clean the frother.
And don’t even get me started on descaling.
The presence of an automatic descaling function in many models in the middle to upper price ranges does make your job a little bit easier. Some go one step further and prompt you to execute the program at the appropriate moment. Maintaining proper upkeep is so important that you can hardly afford to ignore it.
FAQ
Still uncertain about cappuccino makers? In the following paragraphs, I will make an attempt to address some of the inquiries that you might have.
Which Cappuccino Maker Is Considered To Be The Best?
The Breville Barista Express justifiably has the reputation of being the best machine overall. Because it strikes a healthy mix between ease of use and the flexibility to be personalized, it is suitable for use by both novice and experienced baristas.
The fact that it comes at a price that is rather affordable for a cappuccino maker is another plus for this product.
What sets a cappuccino machine apart from an espresso machine, and how do they work differently?
Permit me to phrase it in this way:
Every machine that can make cappuccino can also produce espresso. But not all espresso machines can create cappuccinos.
One key distinction is the presence of a milk frother in one of the options.
It makes no difference if the machine comes with a wand, an automatic frother, or a milk carafe to prepare beverages. You are able to prepare a cappuccino or any other milk-based coffee drink using any of these many methods of foaming the milk.
How Should A Cappuccino Machine Be Cleaned?
After each usage, the components of the coffee maker that come into contact with coffee and milk during the brewing process need to be washed thoroughly.
The same can be said for the tray for collecting drips. Cleaning the other detachable components, such as the water tank and the bean hopper, should be done once every week or so at the very least.
In order to remove scale, many models come equipped with an automatic cleaning program that needs to be activated whenever the indicator light begins to blink. If your device does not have one, you will need to instead repeat the process of brewing with the descaling solution a few times in order to remove the scale.
To summarize everything:
On the market, you can choose from one of roughly a dozen outstanding cappuccino makers. However, the Barista Express made by Breville is a model that is difficult to outdo. Creating your own unique drink has never been easier, thanks to the intuitive user interface and the plethora of personalization choices.
Additionally, the device comes equipped with an integrated burr grinder, making it essentially a 2-in-1 product. It comes with 13 different grinding settings, so you may use it to prepare coffee using a variety of different methods.
This computer falls into the middle of the range, but it has so many extra high-end capabilities that it functions almost exactly like a high-end device and costs more than it should. This cappuccino maker has a lot of great features that are sure to please everyone who uses it, regardless of their level of experience.
