In a hurry? Our top pick for the best Italian espresso machine is De Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica.
Are you prepared to invest on a machine that makes espresso coffee?
Selecting an Italian brand is a safe bet that won’t let you down.
After all, who better to ask about espresso than the people who first created it?
Because there is such a big number of models currently available, selecting the one that is best for you could appear to be an insurmountable challenge.
However, that is the reason why we are here today.
In this article, I’ll show you the best Italian espresso machine that money can buy, along with a few other machines that come in a close second and third.
That ought to assist you in basing your decision on knowledge as opposed to blind chance.
Let’s just jump right in, shall we?
Best Italian Espresso Machine – Our Top 7 Picks
• De Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica (Best Overall)
• Delonghi Italian Espresso Maker (Dedica) (Most Compact Machine)
• Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine (Most Durable)
• Gaggia Brera (Affordable Pick)
• Gaggia Classic Pro (Simplest To Use)
• Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Espresso Machine (Best Design)
• De Longhi ECAM45760B Eletta (Best For Milk-Based Drinks)
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica
The Magnifica is an espresso machine that is priced in the middle of the range but yet manages to provide a large number of different personalization possibilities.
You will always start your day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee when you use this model because it is equipped with an integrated burr coffee grinder. If, on the other hand, you want to use espresso coffee that has already been ground, you are free to do so. Simply transfer your grounds into the second chamber, and start the brewing process from that location.
The control panel is uncomplicated and easy to understand and operate. It gives you the ability to make your beverage taste exactly the way you want it by letting you customize every aspect of it, from the amount of alcohol to the volume of the brew. Because the heater on this coffee machine works so quickly, you won’t have to wait between brews to enjoy your beverage.
Because this device has a water tank that holds sixty ounces of water, it is capable of producing up to thirty cups of espresso before it needs to be refilled. Rinsing and refilling the tank is not difficult in any case due to the fact that it can be accessed from the front of the vehicle.
It is also important to note that any elements of this machine that may be removed can be cleaned in a dishwasher. You won’t find this feature on most other espresso makers, and it will save you a significant amount of time.
Pros
• A by-pass chamber enables you to choose between using freshly ground espresso coffee and pre-ground coffee.
• You are able to program the machine with your preferences, which will allow you to prepare your ideal coffee more quickly the next time you use it.
• The fact that every detachable component may be washed in the dishwasher simplifies the process of cleaning.
• The top of the machine features a warming tray that allows you to preheat your cup before pouring espresso into it.
Cons
A spout that is not adjustable restricts you to using only the smallest cups.
Espresso machine made in Italy by DeLonghi (Dedica)
Who said you can’t drink handmade espresso in your dorm or RV?
You merely require a coffee maker that is not too bulky. And among those models that have a tiny footprint, the Dedica really stands out as a strong piece of equipment that comes with a ton of fantastic features.
This espresso maker features a pump with a pressure of 15 bars, which ensures that you get a consistent cup of coffee every time. It comes with three filter holders, allowing you to pick between a single shot, a double shot, or to use an ESE pod instead of either of those options.
This machine does not require any waiting on your part. After only 35 seconds, it will begin to heat up, allowing you to immediately begin the brewing process. In addition, because it has a quick heater, you won’t have to wait between brewing each cup because you can do it simultaneously.
After a predetermined amount of time of inactivity, the Dedica will power down by itself. This not only helps save money on power, but it also avoids any potential electrical problems from occurring. You have the option of setting the automatic shutdown to take place after as little as 9 minutes or as much as 3 hours.
This device is incredibly simple to clean up after use. Both the water tank and the drip tray are easy to remove and can be put in the top rack of your dishwasher to be cleaned there. Naturally, there is also a descaling procedure that includes a light indicator, which makes maintenance even less difficult.
Pros
• After only 35 seconds from the time you turn on the machine, it is already prepared to brew.
This device occupies only one-fifth of the area required by conventional coffee makers, thanks to its small footprint of 13 by 6 inches.
• Frothing is a breeze for novices when using a wand in the Panarello style since it produces excellent foam with very little input from the user in terms of either effort or ability.
• Components that are compatible with dishwashers simplify the cleaning process.
Cons
• Because the water tank on this machine is smaller than the water tanks on most other machines, you may need to refill it more frequently.
Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine
This particular model offered by Rancilio is the epitome of a coffee maker that exemplifies the term “made to last.” Iron is used in the construction of the frame, but durable stainless steel is used in the construction of the body panels. This espresso machine is extremely durable and is guaranteed to serve you well for many years to come (if you properly take care of it).
Although it is a semi-automatic espresso machine, this type is considered to be one of the most basic ones. This indicates that it has a straightforward control panel and features that are simple to operate.
On the control panel, there are four switches, and each one controls a different function: the power, the shot pulling, the hot water, and the steaming. In addition, an indicator light will illuminate next to each switch when it is ready for use. Because of how simple and clear everything is, I can’t imagine how someone could possibly get it wrong.
When it comes to pulling the shot and heating milk, there is, of course, a small learning curve involved in both processes. To get the hang of those things, however, shouldn’t take more than a few tries at most on your part.
It is a wonderful touch that the machine has a large warming tray mounted on the top of it. It is possible to preheat up to six cups at once using this appliance. This comes in quite handy for houses that are full of people who enjoy drinking coffee.
Because the water reservoir in this device has a capacity of 68 ounces, you won’t have to replenish it as frequently as some other models. The process of restocking this machine is laborious, and I’m not going to sugarcoat that fact. Because it is situated at the very back of this 30-pound machine, you will need to bring it forward in order to access and remove the tank.
Pros
• The iron frame and stainless steel body of this machine combine to make it one of the most durable options on the market.
• Because of its enormous water reservoir, you won’t need to keep topping it off with fresh water.
• Inexperienced users will have no trouble operating this machine thanks to its intuitive control panel.
• A sizable warmup tray makes it simple to preheat cups before beginning the brewing process.
Cons
• Because of its weight, moving it from place to place is a challenging endeavor.
Gaggia Brera
This is one of the machines that falls into the category of being one of the least expensive options currently available on the market. When it comes to the features, however, this model provides various possibilities that are not typically found in a product of this price range.
I was rather taken aback to see that despite its small size, this model actually has sufficient space to accommodate an integrated grinder. In addition to this, it comes with a separate compartment for storing pre-ground coffee! This enables you to have a cup of freshly ground espresso coffee in the morning, and then switch to decaffeinated coffee in the middle of the day.
The adjusting mechanism is another amazing feature of this coffee grinder. It changes the amount of time it grinds the beans according on how strong you want your coffee. Because of this, the brewing process will be streamlined and consistent going forward.
The Brera has an extremely short wait time, which is nearly nonexistent. Because it can reach the desired temperature in fewer than thirty seconds, you can begin the brewing process as soon as you open your eyes in the morning.
Because it just has one boiler, you won’t be able to brew coffee and steam vegetables at the same time with this machine. However, the amount of time spent waiting is rather modest, which allows you to swiftly prepare one cup after another.
It is quite unlikely that you will need to replace the water reservoir more frequently than once per week given that it holds 40 ounces of water. The fact that the reservoir is front-loading, which allows you to remove it quickly and conveniently without having to move the machine, is another feature that I really appreciate.
Pros
This coffee maker’s very low cost makes it an excellent option for those just starting out.
• The utilization of a control panel that is comprised of push-button controls and an LED display is quite straightforward and natural.
• You have the option of using either whole coffee beans or pre-ground coffee thanks to the built-in grinder and the by-pass hopper on the machine.
• Because of its modest dimensions, this machine may simply be tucked away beneath low cabinets and placed on small countertops.
Cons
• Because it does not have a descaling cycle, you will need to do it by hand.
Gaggia Classic Pro
Vanilla would be the flavor of ice cream that I would like to compare this coffee machine to if I had to choose one. Even if you’ve never made espresso before, you won’t have much trouble understanding how to use it because it’s so simple.
Due to the fact that there are just three control buttons on the control panel, it is not necessary to refer to the handbook for instructions. Because every one of the buttons has an indicator light associated with it, the device will communicate to you when each function is ready to be used.
Due to the fact that this is a semi-automatic equipment, you will need to draw the shot and steam the milk on your own. This indicates that you will need to put in some additional time practicing your barista abilities. However, you shouldn’t be too concerned because it won’t be too much longer before you can make the most of this gadget.
This is primarily due to the use of a brew head, filter holder, and wand of a commercial-grade quality. Because of these high-quality features, which guarantee that you will always obtain the correct pressure and temperature, there is very little opportunity for error in the brewing process.
It is also important to note that there is a selection of colors available for this device. Although most espresso machines come in various shades of gray, you may choose from some interesting colors with this model, such as red or blue. A wonderful opportunity to inject some color into your cooking space!
Pros
The body of this machine is composed of stainless steel, which ensures that it will last for a long time.
• The use of a dry-puck feature helps the grinds to clump together, making disposal more simpler
• Whether you like your coffee in pods or grounds, this machine allows you to utilize either one.
This model features a water tank that is 68 ounces, which is quite a high capacity considering how compact the machine is.
Cons
• The heating process takes five minutes, which is significantly longer than most of the other models on this list.
Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Espresso Machine
A heat exchange boiler is not something that is typically found on equipment in this price range. These are wonderful because they let you make coffee and steam milk at the same time, which is a brilliant combination. Even while that was all it took to pique my interest in this model, it is certainly not the only feature that deserves to be mentioned.
This piece of machinery, beginning with the body, is constructed out of stainless steel. This indicates that it can technically last you for the rest of your life, provided that you maintain it properly.
The steam wand that comes with this model is incredible. It is significantly more extensive than on other machines, and it makes use of dry steam. When combined, these two aspects give you with an even greater degree of control during steaming. To put it simply, the process of producing microfoam has never been simpler.
For me, the dry-puck option is one that I use and like quite a lot. This causes the water in the filter to be sucked out, which in turn causes the used grinds to clump together. The cleaning process is greatly simplified as a result. The detachable components cannot be cleaned in the dishwasher, but they are quite simple to scrub clean with a brush and some liquid soap.
It is also important to note that this espresso machine is available in two different versions: one that is plumbed-in and the other that has a water reservoir. This grants you the ability to install this device in residential as well as commercial settings, such as workplaces and eateries of a certain size.
Pros
• A wand of industrial quality makes it simple to achieve the ideal microfoam texture.
• The dry-puck capability enables you to remove soiled grinds without making a mess of the cleanup process.
• In order to keep the boiler from overheating, it will cut off automatically if the water level is low or if it has been running for more than one minute and fifty seconds.
• Includes a sizable warming tray that can accommodate a total of 12 cups at once.
Cons
• The water needs to be heated for about a quarter of an hour before the brewing can begin.
DeLonghi ECAM45760B Eletta
Are you willing to spend a little bit more on a model with a higher end?
Then you may purchase a machine that has a variety of bells and whistles, which will allow you to make excellent coffee beverages that contain milk. The DeLonghi Eletta is one of the very few machines in this category that can compete with the other options available.
If adaptability is a priority for you, then you are going to be blown away by the number of programmable settings that are available on this device. You are able to program your beverage to be exactly how you want it, down to the temperature, the intensity, and the amount of milk to espresso.
This is technically a 2-in-1 machine because it has a grinder already installed inside of it. You have a lot of leeway to customize your grounds thanks to the 13 different grind settings. You can also use pre-ground coffee in the second chamber if you want to make the transition to decaf coffee more rapidly.
When it comes to beverages that contain milk, this design shines the brightest. Because the carafe is detachable, you’ll be able to keep it chilled in the refrigerator when it’s not in use. Depending on the beverage that you are preparing, you have a few different options for the foam that you create, ranging from airy to soft foam.
It is also important to highlight the cleaning functions. This device performs an automatic rinse after each time it is turned on and off, ensuring that brewing does not leave any residue behind. In addition to this, there is a light indicator that blinks at you to let you know when it is time to start the descaling application.
Pros
• Because there are so many different options to choose from, you may completely customize each drink to your specifications.
• The height of the spout can be adjusted up to 5.5 inches, which allows it to suit even the tallest of cups.
• The display will let you know when it needs something from you, such as when it needs you to add water, when it needs you to add coffee beans, or when it needs you to empty out the grounds.
• In order to preserve resources and prevent waste, the device will power off by itself if it is not used for thirty minutes.
Cons
• Relatively pricey for a machine that can be used at home
Buying Guide: How to Determine Which Italian Espresso Machine Is the Best Fit for You
At this point, you should have a basic understanding of the many Italian espresso machines that are now available on the market.
Having to make a decision from among all of those amazing models is easily the most challenging aspect of the job. When you know what to look for in these computers, though, things become a great deal simpler.
In the following paragraphs, we’ll discuss the characteristics that you ought to be on the lookout for when you go shopping.
Automatic vs Semi-Automatic
First and foremost, how involved do you want to be in the actual process of brewing the beer?
One need only click a button in order for an automated machine to complete their task. It makes little difference if you are grinding, manipulating, or jerking the shot at this point. You merely need to select how you want the espresso machine to operate, and it will take care of everything else for you.
Some machines can perform one more function. These so-called super-automatic espresso makers take care of almost everything, beginning with grinding the beans and ending with brewing the espresso. This even includes whipping the milk into a foam.
It is possible to achieve the highest level of convenience by having a machine perform all of the labor. This enables you to produce a cup of coffee that is dependably delicious, regardless of how skilled you are at making coffee.
On the other hand, if you are a seasoned barista, having a completely automated brewing process might not be as interesting to you. You could find that a semi-automatic espresso machine is the most suitable alternative for your needs.
This particular kind of machine is solely used for the most menial tasks, such as loading a filter and tampering. In addition to this, it provides you with a high level of control when it comes to pulling the shot, which enables you to truly experiment with the outcomes.
Customizability
When it comes to espresso machines, the degree to which they can be personalized is proportional to the amount of money they cost. Machines priced at the entry level typically offer only the most fundamental customization options, such as the capacity of your espresso shot.
Obviously, there are benefits associated with the inability to customize the product. This type of machine is suitable for those who are just starting out or who prefer their espresso to taste as though it were freshly brewed in a cafe.
However, you should be prepared to spend a bit more on an espresso machine if you want the flexibility to experiment with different espresso drinks. Most mid-range models let you modify different settings. These aspects include the fineness of the grind, the strength of the brew, and the temperature.
You can even select from a variety of milk-based beverages, or you can manufacture your own, if you are willing to pay a little bit extra. It’s possible that in many situations, you’ll have the option to save your preferences so that you can use them again in the future.
Ease And Comfort In Upkeep
When it comes to purchasing an espresso machine, a shocking number of consumers grossly underestimate the importance of this variable. But the beginning of hell is the first brewed shot you take. When it comes to espresso machines, it is essential to clean them on a consistent basis.
When you pull a shot, there are specific components, like a steam wand or a brewing unit, that need to be cleaned after each use. This is due to the fact that these components come into touch with organic substances, such as coffee and milk, both of which are consumed. This indicates that they have the potential to rapidly transform into an ideal setting for the growth of bacteria.
In addition to performing maintenance on a daily basis, you must also clean any removable parts once every week. The frequency with which you must run the descale cycle is directly proportional to the mineral content of the water supplied by your local water system.
The models in the middle and upper price ranges typically include various functions that assist you with cleaning. They typically come equipped with a descaling tool that takes care of everything on its own. This is the very minimum. You only need to begin doing so when the indication suggests that the time has come.
Some models go one step further by including an auto-flush function that operates after each brew as well as whenever you turn the machine on or off. This will ensure that both your steam wand and your brew head are completely clean and prepared for the next batch of coffee to be brewed.
Size
Espresso makers are typically somewhat substantial pieces of equipment. Because many high-end versions are intended for use in commercial settings, their footprints are too large to fit on standard-sized countertops. Finding a model that is appropriate for your living situation might be challenging, especially if you are in a dorm, a small apartment, or even an RV.
Before you decide on a specific model, you should measure the available area on your counter and make sure it can accommodate it. You should also measure the height of your cabinets because certain models may potentially have a height that is incompatible with the configuration of your kitchen.
It is important to keep in mind that the size of the machine can increase as a result of extra functions being included, such as a coffee carafe or an integrated grinder. You can save some money by going with a smaller espresso maker because these machines are typically sold at lower prices.
However, you should take into consideration the total amount of coffee that your household consumes on a regular basis. Because smaller machines have a reduced capacity for both the water tank and the hopper, it’s possible that you’ll need to replace them more frequently.
Wands of Steam
There is a variety of streaming content available, each of which necessitates a different level of participation. The amount of involvement you desire in the process of steaming milk is ultimately the deciding factor.
Consider purchasing an automatic frother if the end result is the only thing that matters to you. The machine will automatically create the foam for you if you just click the appropriate button.
The vast majority of Italian coffee machines, known as Pannarello or commercial-grade, come equipped with a manual wand. The former provides you with unrivaled command over the final appearance of your foam when compared to the latter. Even though this is fantastic for experienced baristas, it may be challenging for those who have never worked in the coffee industry before.
A Panarello wand is considered to be more of an instrument for novices. Although it requires manual operation on your part, it consistently delivers satisfactory outcomes. The foam produced by this wand is not as flawless as that produced by a wand of commercial quality. The outcome, however, is satisfactory for someone who is still developing their skills.
Lastly, a carafe is included with some of the versions. This particular model of steamer does not provide you with a great deal of control over the end product, but it still manages to do a respectable job on its own. In addition to this, it is quite convenient for creating beverages such as lattes and macchiatos.
In addition to this, the carafe can be removed and placed in the refrigerator when it is not being used. Because of this, you won’t need to remove milk from the refrigerator each time you make a cup of coffee.
To summarize everything:
The Italians have perfected the art of making real espresso makers. In addition, among the many different kinds of Italian coffee machines, the DeLonghi Magnifica stands out as one of the most formidable competitors.
It enables a great deal of personalization, which is something that even experienced baristas will appreciate. However, due to the presence of such an easy-to-understand control panel, even a novice coffee enthusiast is able to brew coffee without feeling overwhelmed by the available options. The best part is that it is rather inexpensive taking into account all of the features that it possesses.
