Major Espresso Machine Brands Ranked Worst To Best

Mueller has carved a niche for itself in the espresso universe, even though it's one of the more recent entrants. Primarily an online hub for kitchen gadgets and appliances, its branded espresso machines have been making waves among aficionados in search of a better cup.

While Mueller's offerings might not be top-of-the-line, they are a fantastic stepping stone for espresso rookies. These machines strike a balance between affordability and functionality, making it simple for novices to craft their first espresso. Plus, the built-in grinder transforms them into an all-in-one brewing station. Simplicity is Mueller's strength. The machines are easier to use than most and have easy-to-use controls. 

To sum it up, Mueller delivers a splendid coffee experience right at home. It might not rival the ultra-premium machines, but unless you have an exceptionally discerning palate, the difference is subtle. Priced around $400, Mueller is the ideal pick for those dipping their toes into the espresso world who want the convenience of a quality in-home espresso machine without the price tag of a higher-end model.

One of the most common coffee machines found on kitchen counters in America is the Mr. Coffee drip system. It's simple, reliable, and does the job. The company has branched out into the espresso market with a similar approach to coffee.

Mr. Coffee's espresso machines are affordable and easy to use. With an entry price point of around $50, the Mr. Coffee brand espresso machines allow anyone to enjoy coffee from the comfort of their home. They're user-friendly and have a wide variety of convenient features that anyone can master. Their simpler versions allow users to simply fill up the reservoir with water and coffee grounds, then press a button for freshly made espresso. The more feature-heavy versions can also include reservoir milk holders for automatic milk frothing, used for preparing cappuccinos and lattes.

Mr. Coffee has built a reputation for delivering cost-effective, easy-to-operate products. It's not advanced enough to coax out the highest levels of flavor, but for the price, Mr. Coffee makes excellent budget espresso machines for users who simply want a nice cup of espresso without any fuss.

Made in Italy, Lelit holds a prominent position among top-tier espresso machine manufacturers. While it may be one of the smaller Italian brands, Lelit has made a name for itself by crafting high-caliber machines. The company takes pride in its Italian roots and every Lelit machine is designed and manufactured in Italy.

Given the quality Lelit upholds, their machines come with a premium price tag. They fit the needs of businesses and quaint cafes. However, their cost might place them beyond the reach of the average household unless they have considerable disposable income or have been saving up for one. The Victoria, Lelit's entry-level model, costs about $1,000, while their flagship, the Bianca, can be priced upward of $3,000. For such an investment, owners receive a café-grade espresso machine laden with top-notch features. Lelit's machines are known for their precision in temperature regulation via electronic sensors, strong stainless steel construction, and sleek design.

They're not as large as industrial-designed espresso machines, but they produce the same quality in a compact and aesthetically pleasing design. The higher-end model comes with carved wooden handles and knobs while their entry-level products use plastic in their design.

La Marzocco is an iconic name in espresso machines. Established in 1927 by the Bambi brothers, Giuseppe and Bruno, the brand has consistently delivered outstanding espresso machines for both home and commercial use. Machines produced by La Marzocco were the first to use a horizontal boiler which allowed for faster heating. Horizontal boilers are now considered the industry standard. What makes La Marzocco machines even more impressive is that each machine is made by hand in their factory in Florence, Italy.

Among their vast range of products, the Linea series is the brand's signature model. It includes a dual boiler system, accurate temperature controls, efficient cleaning mechanisms, and a timeless design. For home enthusiasts, the Linea Micra offers a compact version of this iconic machine. La Marzocco sets itself apart with models that feature professional-grade functionalities. Notably, it is among the select brands offering an integrated app –- the La Marzocco Pro app. This tool provides insightful data analytics and usage tracking while simplifying the maintenance process.

It's worth noting that such exceptional quality and craftsmanship come with a premium. The machines, especially for home use, carry a price tag that starts at several thousand dollars. Still, for many, the quality justifies the investment.

Gaggia, a renowned Italian coffee brand, is no stranger to coffee connoisseurs. Founded by Achille Gaggia in 1948, its roots in the coffee domain trace back to the 1930s when Achille worked at his family's cafe. Since then, the brand has made avant-garde espresso machines for both home and commercial use.

One of Gaggia's standout innovations is its signature piston design, still a hallmark of their machines today. In 1938, the company filed a patent for a device called a Lampo which used water pressure instead of steam to produce the much sought-after crema that espresso is known for. This innovation was followed by a piston-driven espresso machine that could brew espresso in just 25 seconds. 

Today, Gaggia's product line includes both commercial machines and a wide variety of home-use machines as well. For home use, the company provides models with state-of-the-art electronics and touchscreens, giving users complete control over their brewing process, although machines with classic manual controls are also available. Whether you're a homebrew enthusiast or a commercial business, Gaggia's quality and craftsmanship make it one of the best names in the business.

Established in 1932, Breville is an Australian powerhouse that has emerged as one of the leading espresso machine manufacturers globally. Breville holds the distinction of being our top recommendation among the elite espresso machine brands. Several elements elevate Breville above its competitors, not the least of which is its diverse portfolio includes machines priced from a modest $300 to a premium $3,000, catering to a broad spectrum of coffee drinkers.

What sets Breville machines apart is the blend of intuitive functionality and advanced technological features. Notably, it incorporates dual boiler designs—one dedicated to steam and the other to maintain the optimal espresso brewing temperature. Orchestrating these boilers is a sophisticated electronic control system, ensuring each operates at an ideal temperature. The premium espresso machines come with integrated grinders that are equipped with diverse grind settings. These grinders allow users to easily tailor every aspect of their brewing experience. Automation is at the heart of Breville, ensuring that the perfect espresso is but a button press away.

Breville's commitment to unparalleled espresso is encapsulated in their 4 Keys Formula, a doctrine they believe holds the secret to the quintessential espresso shot. This formula revolves around four pillars: the ideal dose, optimal pressure, precise temperature, and robust steam. Given Breville's intricate designs, state-of-the-art electronics, and user-centric approach, it's no wonder they reign supreme in the world of espresso machines.