8 Best Espresso Machines Under $400; Reviewed

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If you’re looking for the best espresso machine under $400, then I congratulate you. A 400 dollar budget range offers great harmony between pricing and utility.

We’re no longer looking at entry level options, and the focus can completely be on the quality of espresso we want. 

There are many choices out there, but we’ve done the research for you and made a list of eight of the best espresso machines under $400.

Best Espresso Machines Under $400

Comparison Table

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Best Espresso Machine Under $400 - reviews

1. Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine

The Calphan TempiQ is not just affordable but it can also pull robust shots and make gorgeous milk-based coffee drinks.

Its grinder, brew head, and steam wand are capable of brewing cafe-quality espresso and obtaining that rich, creamy, and elusive microfoam when steaming milk.

The Temp IQ is a semi-automatic espresso machine that costs less than $400 and it makes brewing relatively easy, even for newcomers.

Although the machine is aimed at the entry-level market, thanks to its stainless steel exterior and chrome accents, it looks far more high-end.

The machine has both single and double shot pressurized filter baskets. The machine features a Thermoblock water heating technology and PID temperature control. 

The machine has a 15-bar pressure pump and a portafilter with a diameter of 58 mm.  The larger size of the basket allows water to infuse coffee grounds more evenly.

The machine has a 70oz. removable water reservoir located on the back of the machine.

Why Do We Recommend It

People who like cappuccinos, lattes, and other milk-based coffee drinks will love the fact that this machine also has a milk frother that uses steam power to create foamy, creamy froth.

Calphalon Temp IQ heats the water quickly and efficiently, and maintains it at a constant, optimum temperature for coffee brewing.

The machine also features a pre-infusion technology that allows ground coffee to expand and helps in extracting deeper, richer, and more aromatic flavors.

The Calphalon Temp iQ comes with additional tools and accessories such as a stainless steel milk pitcher to froth milk, a tamper, dual wall 1- and 2-cup filters, and a cleaning pin.

The machine’s Digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction.

Calphalon Temp IQ is more affordable than other high-end coffee makers, but its features are very competitive. As a result of the technology and functions, this espresso maker can brew really delicious espresso and espresso-based beverages.

Pros:
  • Brews excellent espresso
  • Can achieve near-perfect microfoam
  • Relatively easy to use for a semi-automatic machine
  • Quick brew time of 30 seconds
  • Comes with a milk frothing pitcher, tamper, and cleaning pin
Cons:
  • Some parts are made of plastic
  • No coffee dosing spoon

2. Flair Espresso Maker PRO 2

If you’re an espresso enthusiast who is looking for something that brews high-quality espresso at an affordable price, the Flair PRO 2 may be the perfect choice for you.

It is an elegant manual espresso maker for under $400 that makes excellent quality espresso, albeit with a little bit of extra effort. 

But If you’re looking for convenience, then this manual espresso maker is not for you.

Manual espresso is more about the craft and ritual of making espresso. It’s the opposite of something like a Nespresso machine in terms of convenience. 

The Flair is highly portable and without having any electrical parts, this machine can truly go with you wherever you want to make cafe-quality espresso.

There are a fair number of components to where it can be a touch intimidating unboxing and setting up for the first time, but once you do it it’s pretty straightforward, quick, and simple to set up.

The Flair Pro2 comes with a bottomless portafilter for better flow dynamics, a removable stainless steel spout, a silicone handle grip for brewing ergonomics, and a silicone protective wrap to improve gauge durability

Why Do We Recommend It

The Flair Pro2 is is solid, strong, and you can feel that from the weight. While not overly-heavy it has a sufficient enough mass (weighing in at 7lbs) to it where you know it can handle the force you apply to this machine to pull a shot.

The team at Flair provides an easy-to-follow user guide to help you begin. Following these steps is simple, and great for people of any experience level.

In terms of performance, the Flair Pro 2 brews high-quality espresso — equivalent to what you’d make with an electric espresso machine. 

The manual brewing experience is all part of this product and it’s quite beautiful. Yes, it does take a bit longer than an electric machine — around 10 to 15 minutes — but it’s quite enjoyable at the same time.

The clean up for the Flair Pro 2 is very easy and takes less than 5 minutes. 

The fact that you can really make espresso anywhere you can get hot water is awesome.  And the ability to manipulate the profile of the shot to your liking is also great considering most low and mid tier espresso machines don’t have preinfusion or pressure profiling capabilities. 

Pros:
  • Portable & affordable
  • Makes excellent espresso
  • Nearly 100% stainless steel construction
  • Fully manual – no electricity required
  • Can make cold-pressed espresso
Cons:
  • Too many parts
  • Steep learning curve
  • Takes a bit of time

3. De'Longhi EC685M Dedica DeLuxe

The De’Longhi EC685M or Dedica DeLuxe offers a manual espresso brewing experience and it is so compact and subtle it’s barely noticeable on your counter, but it makes smooth coffee, as well as steam and froth milk or even just dispense hot water. 

The Dedica EC685 is a compact manual espresso machine with a simple three-button interface. 

The drink options available are single and double espressos and steamed or frothy milk, so you can easily make some of the most popular barista-style drinks like cappuccino, latte or flat white.

The De’Longhi Dedica Style EC685 produces espressos using 15 bar pressure and comes with three filters: single and double espresso, and Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods.  

The removable water tank has a 35oz. capacity, and you can fit an optional water filter should you live in a hard water area.

It’s easy to use with just three buttons; one cup, two cup, or steam but despite this simple control panel you can still adjust water hardness, coffee temperature, and volume of coffee delivered. 

The milk frother can be used for hot milk or frothy milk and can also be used to deliver hot water.

Why Do We Recommend It

For such a compact machine, it lets you maximize output (15 bar pressure) and consistency. It uses thermoblock technology, has enough steam wand pressure, and brews within ideal temperature ranges.

The machine comes with 3 baskets for your filter holder. You can easily make single or double espresso shots as you please. Being double-walled, you can expect a decent amount of rich crema too. 

The DeLonghi Dedica is made with stainless steel and hard plastic. It weighs less than 10 lbs. so it won’t feel like it’s built like a tank. 

Yet, with proper care and maintenance, as with any piece of equipment, you can make this machine last. 

It comes with a cup warmer and the drip tray is removable, meaning you can fit various sized cups and mugs under the coffee spout. 

The DeLonghi Dedica is one of the best espresso machines under 400 dollars and it features a regulator ring on the milk frother that gives you the option to adjust the steaming level and thus the resulting amount of foam.

Pros:
  • Stylish and compact
  • Utilizes both ground espresso and ESE pods
  • Two-tiered drip tray
  • Less than 1-minute machine warm-up
  • Automatic Flow Stop lets you brew single and double shots properly
Cons:
  • No grinder
  • Some dripping after espresso is poured
  • Instructions can be difficult to understand

4. Gaggia Carezza De LUXE Espresso Machine

The Carezza Deluxe is in a class of machines that brew using a pressurized filter basket. This machine can work with pre-ground coffee and Easy Serve Espresso pods.

The Carezza comes with an automatic pre-infusion feature that wets the coffee briefly prior to full pressure brewing. Doing that causes the coffee to swell and results in a deeper more complete extraction of flavor.

The Gaggia Carezza Deluxe is a compact semi-automatic espresso and coffee machine for under $400 that has a stylish rounded front and a retro-looking analogue temperature dial.

With Gaggia Carezza you can prepare the usual Italian-style short espresso, or the long espresso, but also latte, cappuccino, hot chocolate and even tea.

The Carezza Deluxe machine will brew your drink by use of a pressurized portafilter basket and a Pannarello wand. 

The setup is very easily made by pushing a specific button. The heating time for brewing temperatures is only one minute. The water tank is a considerable 1.4 liters.

Why Do We Recommend It

The Carezza has a single, dual-use boiler that heats the water for both espresso and steamed milk. A 15 bar pump provides more than enough pressure needed to pull a quality shot.

The Carezza Deluxe features a retro Italian aesthetic. On the front panel are a temperature gauge, buttons for power, brew, water and steam, and that knob for turning on steam and hot water.

With features like pre-infusion and commercial style filter baskets which accommodate commercial size coffee doses the Carezza Deluxe is in our option the best available machine for those looking to get into espresso and milk based beverages. 

It’s attractive, compact and quick. Ready to brew in about one minute and no worries with the automatic shutoff.

Pros:
  • Pre-infuses the coffee grounds 
  • Large 18-gram commercial style portafilter 
  • Removable Pannarello steam wand
  • Front access reservoir 
  • Smart design
  • Great, reliable coffee quality
Cons:
  • Some may find it overly styled
  • A bit of a learning curve

5. Nespresso Lattissima One Espresso Maker

The Lattissima One offers hassle-free, one-touch specialty beverages with a 4 oz milk container in compact, affordable package.

Nespresso Lattissima One has a unique compact design, making it special among its similar models. It comes with a chrome lever and backlit buttons for the three drink options. 

Its gloss and matte lines give it an elegant look and grab your attention at first glance. It comes in two colors, black and white, allowing you to easily match it with your decoration. 

The cup shelf is easily adjustable to accommodate any cup size. So, you don’t have to worry about what mugs you can use.

The coffee producedby this machine is well balanced with a sharp woody flavour, a gentle sweetness and a good level of acidity, which lingers pleasantly on the tongue. 

Beginners will especially appreciate the lines on the milk frother, as this helps reduce waste by indicating exactly where to pour your milk up to dependent on each drink.

Lattissima One comes with a 1-liter water tank, which gives you seven to nine espressos.

Why Do We Recommend It

Thanks to the Nespresso capsules system, dealing with coffee powder isn’t an issue. All you need to do is put the pod in the slot and then wait for your desired coffee. 

When your coffee is ready and you lift the lever, the wasted pod automatically ejects into the capsule container.  

The automatic milk frothing means you don’t have to worry about the milk volume, temperature, and foam. Simply pour the milk into the container, place the capsule in, choose either cappuccino or latte, and get your order in seconds.

No matter if you’re an expert or a beginner, you can work with this espresso machine without reading a manual.

Lattissima One’s automatic milk system gives you your cappuccino or latte with only a touch of a button. 

All original pods are compatible with DeLonghi Nespresso machines, meaning that you’ll have a vast array of pods to choose from. 

This machine costs less than 400 dollars and it comes with a 19 bar high-pressure pump that extracts more flavor from the pod and gives you a barista-style coffee.

Also, for every cup of coffee, you need 25 seconds to heat up, and then the machine brews your coffee in just 40 seconds.

Pros:
  • Integrated one-touch milk frother makes specialty beverages easily
  • Large 16 oz milk container
  • Solid internal construction means it won’t break down quickly
  • Can used 3rd-party capsules
  • Easy to set up and clean
  • Auto shutoff
Cons:
  • Small milk container
  • ABS plastic scuffs a little easily

6. De'Longhi COM532M Espresso Machine

DeLonghi COM532M coffee machine has a 15 bar pressure pump and it comes with a dual heating system.

This DeLonghi coffee & espresso machine has an advanced steam wand for offering you both lattes and cappuccinos with the frothing wand. It provides you rich and creamy milk foam.

DeLonghi COM532M features a 24 hour programmable timer and a digital touchscreen for enjoying freshly brewed coffee as soon as you wake up.

 It is capable of making all the milk-based coffee drinks including latte, espresso, cappuccino, coffee and americano.

It has a generous 10 cup capacity in the spill proof filter coffee carafe but also allows you to brew only 1 – 4 cups (with adjustments to enhance flavor for this smaller quantity).

Why Do We Recommend It

DeLonghi’s all coffee machine is compatible with Nespresso pods including Le Cube, all Citiz models, all Pixie models, Lattissima models and Inissia coffee machines.

It allows for simultaneous brewing and espresso making via the 15 bar pressure pump. 

It has an effortless user-interface that you can use to customize your coffee and latte flavors exactly the way you want them to be.

The espresso machine has a beautiful design to it as it looks beautiful wherever it is placed.

Its advanced adjustable cappuccino and hot milk option on the frother that assists you to have two settings. 

It’s digital touch screen and 24 hour programmable auto function so that you can brew coffee in the morning.

Pros:
  • Makes drip coffee too
  • Easy to use steam wand
  • Compatible with other brands coffee pods
  • Programmable
Cons:
  • Drip tray fills up quickly
  • Need to manually stop brewing espresso

7. Mr. Coffee CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker

Mr. Coffee CoffeeHouse belongs to the rare class of machines, which makes milk foam automatically, however, espressos need be made manually.

It’s a 19-bar Italian pump with a super easy 1-touch interface that allows you to select single or double shots for brewing. 

There are removable milk and water reservoirs, which is a plus for pretty much any kind of coffee machine. 

Surprisingly enough, its milk frother can actually handle a decent array of milk types including whole, skim, 2%, soy, and almond.

Making a cappuccino or espresso at home may seem intimidating, but in fact, it is easier than one would think. 

With a “one-touch” button system, this machine will produce the perfect cup of java every time. Absolutely no second guessing on what to push or how many times. Simply choose from 1 or 2 espresso shots based on the size of the mug.

Why Do We Recommend It

The key to a tasty cup of espresso or cappuccino is the milk froth. With Mr Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse you simply have to turn the dial to adjust the amount of stirring you want and it does all the rest. 

Not only does the reservoir store the milk for use with the machine, but can be stored in the fridge for future use. The milk reservoir is capable of holding about 650 ml.

It’s innovative thermo-couple heating system ensures quick, uniform heating of your beverage. This is extremely important not only for the taste, but for each cup, every time. This one of the best es[resso machines under 400 dollars brings consistency to every drop with a 3 thermo-couple system.

It has an adjustable cup setting to fit any sized cup. That means that even a thermos for your morning commute can be filled with your favorite cup of java.

Mr Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse also has a one touch cleaning button. This cleaning button sends a cycle through the machine to give it a good rinse out. 

Moreover, it is impressive looking with sleek silver and black coloring for a modern look that matches any kitchen. 

Pros:
  • Powerful 19 bar pressure pump 
  • Can fit 2 espresso cups
  • It uses 3 Thermocouples
  • Integrated automatic milk frother 
Cons:
  • Less control over frothing
  • Cleaning is a hassle

8. Nespresso Expert Original Espresso Machine

The Nespresso Expert offers 4 coffee brew sizes from 0.85 oz ristretto to 5.05 oz Americanos, a Hot Water only mode, WiFi connectivity, and a unique design you won’t find with any other models.

The design of the Expert is minimalistic per se, with round shapes prevailing; this is noticeable if you take a look at the two dials of the machine. 

The controls of the Expert are pretty simple, with an intuitive dial that lets you switch between different drinks.

The Nespresso Expert Espresso Machine providies three different heat settings. Choose your preference of medium, hot or extra hot for your perfect coffee.

This espresso machine also has an extra spout for hot water to provide preparations for a weaker espresso.

The machine also connects to the Nespresso App, where you can easily personalize your beverage. 

You can have your cup of coffee ready to enjoy before you even get to the coffee machine. The mobile app empowers you to prepare the next cup of coffee to your exact specifications.

Why Do We Recommend It

This coffee maker impressively prepares the perfect cup of coffee in about thirty seconds. It also has an energy saving component which includes shutting off after nine minutes if not in use.

It includes a large water container that holds 38 ounces. It also includes a large container that will hold up to fourteen spent Nespresso capsules for easy clean up.

he controls on this machine are fairly simple to use. You can turn the dials to choose between different coffee drinks, such as Americano or lungo. The other knob changes the water temperature from warm to hot or extra hot.

The coffee length and temperature settings can all be controlled using the Nespresso App designed for iPhones, iPads, and Android smartphones. 

Using your smart device, you can have even more control over your machine through Bluetooth connectivity. 

You can also use the app wirelessly to order more capsules, brew remotely, schedule a brewing time, and more. 

If you’re looking for convenience and quality in an espresso machine, the Nespresso Expert is an excellent choice. Not only does it produce delicious, top-quality espressos, but it also comes at a good price value. 

Pros:
  • Brews high-quality espressos
  • Offers simple and advanced features
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Sleek design
  • Turns off automatically
  • Solid internal construction means it won’t break down quickly
  • Can used 3rd-party capsules
Cons:
  • Does not come with frother
  • Made of ABS plastic that may scratch easily

Best Espresso Machines Under $400: Buying Guide

When you’re shopping for the best espresso machine under $500, there are a few important things to consider. We’ve included a list in our buying guide below:

Temperature And Pressure

An espresso should be made under at least 9 bars of pressure. Similarly, for best extraction, the temperature of the water should be at 190-195 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The real test of an espresso machine is not the capability to reach this pressure and temperature but to maintain it while the espresso is being poured.

Once extraction starts, the temperature as well as pressure can drop. A good quality espresso machine takes precautions to prevent this from happening. 

It is also helpful to pre-heat the cup so heat from the coffee isn’t lost when it reaches the cup.

Make sure the heating elements are of high-quality materials and won’t easily break down over time.

Milk Frother

It is worth noting that various espresso machines use what is called a panarello steam wand/milk frother. This is an attachment to the steam wand which automatically aerates the milk to maximize foam production from undersized boilers. The positive aspect is that this milk brother is very easy to use and isa gentle entry into steaming milk. 

The downside is that the steamed milk tends to be more foamy than the silky microfoam which is the goal. A good milk frother/steam wand is also essential for latte art.

Adjustable Cup Sizes

Many of the machines on our list include the ability to accommodate different cup sizes, which is important if you like cappuccinos or lattes — you’ll need a bigger cup for the milk.

Volume & Frequency of Use

It is a good idea to keep in mind how often your machine will be used and the volume needing to be produced.

You may choose differently if you have several users brewing multiple cups a day compared to a single user making one cup a day. This is something to keep in mind when considering the right machine for you.

Size of the machine

Determining the space you have available (or that you are willing to give up) is important in addition to knowing the specifications of your preferred model. These are not usually the easiest to hide away in a cupboard, so it is advised that size and space be considered carefully before purchasing.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Depending on the type of water you are using in your machine, regular cleaning and descaling are going to be part of your routine if you want to keep enjoying delicious coffee.

Some people prefer a natural method such as a vinegar solution. There are also commercially made products that can be run through the machine to remove any unwanted residue.

Conclusion

After reviewing a number of machines, I recommend that the best espresso machine under $400 is the De’Longhi EC685M Espresso Machine. I own and love this machine. It is sleek and powerful, comes with a great track record, is loaded with high end features, and best of all makes a superb cup of coffee.

It’s powerful enough to keep the water hot and has plenty of pressure for a superior cup of espresso. I also love the smaller features, like fast heating time, included accessories, and built-in milk frother.

Written by:
Picture of Shiv Kumar
Shiv Kumar

Shiv has been a coffee fanatic since caffeine became a necessity in college, and since then, his enthusiasm has only grown. He specializes in espresso machines and single-serve coffee makers.

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