Best Espresso Machines Under $200
#1 Choice – DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker
The DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker is the second-most expensive espresso maker listed here, but it packs the most value for your dollar. When you hear the De’Longhi name, you should immediately think: full-featured quality.
Just 12 lbs and 19.6” x 7.2” x 11.9”, the De’Longhi espresso maker is solid and well-appointed, and slightly more roomy for a larger presence on your countertop. It has a fully stainless steel casing, which is a really refreshing reprieve from endless, poorly made plastic machines.
For fine-tuning your espresso game, this machine comes with 2 separate thermostats, which enable you to control water pressure and steam pressure separately. If you aren’t as big of an espresso geek and just want something tasty and easy, it also comes with De’Longhi’s patented dual function holder, which not only lets you use both pods and ground coffee beans, but also makes brewing pretty fast and easy. This versatility is a great feature and perfect for a busy household that appreciates good coffee.
The De’Longhi also comes with a self-priming operation, which brews faster than most other espresso machines in this range, eliminating wait times between shots. It also features a really effective warming tray that will keep your cup warm and ready for you. I like to pre-warm my cups to keep my morning lattes hot, right as I pour the milk.
The rest of this espresso maker’s features include: a durable, high quality, stainless steel boiler with 15-bar pump pressure, which ensures the espresso maker produces proper espresso; an ESE filter, which helps make brewing quick and hassle-free; a Sempre Crema filter; De’Longhi’s patented cappuccino system frother, which enables you to make rich, creamy froth for cappuccinos and lattes; and a 37 oz removable water tank and anti-drip design, both of which make re-filling and cleaning the espresso machine no-hassle.
The only complaint about this model is the necessary tweaking of the grinder settings to achieve an optimal coarseness level. I’ve found this to be the case with many espresso machines, and it really isn’t something to be concerned with. De’Longhi is known for its espresso machine artistry and quality. The brand is a solid one and has a reputation on par with the best.
At under $200, this machine is a solid pick and won’t disappoint.
Features:
- Made in USA
- Self-priming operation for minimum start-up preparation
- Patented dual-function filter holder
- Sempre Crema filter
- E.S.E. (easy serving espresso) filter
- Patented cappuccino system frother
- 37-ounce (1.3-liter) removable water tank
- Anti-drip design
- Full stainless steel housing
- On/off switch with indicator light
#2 Choice – Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
Weighing in at a more compact 9 lbs and measuring 12” x 14” x 12.2” in size, the Mr. Coffee Café Barista Espresso Maker is another under $200 espresso maker that is both aesthetically pleasing and space-saving for minimalist or smaller kitchens.
The great thing about this machine is that it is so easy to use. That’s really refreshing for machines that feature latte and cappuccino settings, which can be the biggest barrier for new users. This machine comes with a one-touch control panel that lets you choose from a single or double shot of espresso, cappuccino, or latte with the push of a button. This is great for the novice espresso-lover who doesn’t want to be overwhelmed by a million variables and brewing options they have to master on their own.
If you love a little steamed and frothed milk, the Mr. Coffee comes with an automatic milk frother that will not only turn your favorite brand of milk into a light, creamy foam but will also let you select the froth level, allowing you to customize your beverage. It even pours it into the cup for you. It does not get easier than that!
I also love that this espresso maker comes with a great 15-bar pressure pump that will extract maximum flavor from every coffee granule.
The Mr. Coffee is also pretty easy to clean. Like most machines, it comes with a removable water tank and drip tray, both of which make maintenance pretty hassle-free.
The rest of the espresso maker’s features include: a well-made portafilter, which ensures the espresso maker produces proper espresso every time; a measuring scoop/tamper, which not only enables you to brew accurately, but also helps you ensure that the ground coffee beans are put in the container evenly; and filter for single and double-shot espresso, which are greta for customizing your beverage and should always be a standard feature. The only complaint about this machine that customers have aired is that it's a little loud.
The Mr. Coffee Café Barista received a great rating of 4.1 stars out of 5 on Amazon, making it both the cheapest and best-reviewed espresso maker on our list.
Features:
- 15 bar pump pressure
- One-touch control panel allows you to choose from a single or double shot, latte, or cappuccino
- Automatic milk frother, with selectable froth level
- Removable milk reservoir (great for storing leftover milk in the fridge too)
- Removable water reservoir and drip tray
- Adjustable cup tray for a range of cup/mug sizes.
#3 Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker
While it may not satisfy the espresso purists who love grinding, tamping, and pulling shots by hand, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe by De’Longhi certainly has its place. It’s built for convenience and consistency, perfect for those mornings when you just want a rich espresso or smooth coffee without the fuss of manual brewing.
Weighing in at around 10.27 lbs and measuring 16.7” x 5.6” x 12.8”, this machine sports a sleek, graphite metal finish that gives it a refined, modern look. The design feels both compact and stylish, fitting seamlessly into most kitchens without taking up much counter space.
The VertuoPlus is a fully automatic capsule espresso machine that uses Nespresso’s proprietary Centrifusion™ technology, which spins capsules at high speed to blend coffee and water perfectly. This means you’ll get a silky crema on top of every cup, something most budget machines can’t replicate. It’s also impressively quick, heating up in just 20–25 seconds, so your espresso or coffee is ready almost instantly.
With its 19-bar pressure equivalent system (though achieved differently than traditional pumps), the VertuoPlus consistently delivers full-bodied flavor and excellent extraction. It automatically adjusts brewing parameters based on the capsule you insert: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, or full coffee, thanks to the barcode recognition system on each pod.
A few other thoughtful features make this machine stand out. The movable 60 fl. oz. water tank rotates to fit your counter space, and the automatic capsule ejection and storage (holding up to 10 used pods) keeps cleanup simple. The motorized lid opens and closes smoothly with a gentle touch, a small detail that makes a big difference in daily use.
One limitation worth noting: like most Nespresso machines, this one only works with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which can be more expensive than traditional coffee grounds or third-party pods. It also doesn’t include a built-in frother, though you can purchase the Aeroccino milk frother separately if you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos.
Overall, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an effortless, reliable, and modern espresso machine that delivers consistent results every time. It has earned high praise from users, holding a strong 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, making it one of the best-selling single-serve espresso machines in its category.
Features:
- Made by De’Longhi (Italy)
- Uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules with barcode recognition
- Centrifusion™ brewing technology for rich crema
- Heats up in 20–25 seconds
- Adjustable 60 fl. oz. removable water tank
- Automatic capsule ejection and storage (up to 10 used pods)
- Auto shut-off after 9 minutes of inactivity
- Dimensions: 16.7” x 5.6” x 12.8”
- Weight: 10.27 lbs
How to Choose the Right Espresso Machine Under $200
Buying an espresso machine can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to stay within a budget and still get something that performs well. The good news is that today’s market is full of excellent machines under $200 that balance quality, ease of use, and durability.
The key is understanding what features matter most for your needs. Below, I’ve broken down the most important factors to keep in mind before you click “Add to Cart.”
Choose the Right Type of Machine
The first thing to consider is how much control you want over the brewing process. Espresso machines under $200 generally fall into three categories:
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Manual or Semi-Automatic Machines: These machines give you the most hands-on experience. You grind the beans, tamp them, and start the extraction yourself. This type is ideal if you want to learn the craft of espresso-making. The De’Longhi ECP3630, for example, lets you experiment with timing and pressure, which can be really satisfying for budding home baristas.
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Automatic Machines: These strike a balance between control and convenience. You still handle the coffee grounds, but the machine regulates water flow and temperature. Many of De’Longhi’s entry-level models fall into this category.
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Capsule or Pod Machines: If your priority is speed and simplicity, a pod-based espresso machine (like the Nespresso VertuoPlus) is a fantastic option. You’ll get consistent results without the mess, no grinding, no tamping, and no guesswork.
Pay Attention to Pressure
Pressure is what turns hot water and finely ground coffee into that rich, aromatic shot of espresso. For authentic espresso, you want at least 15 bars of pressure. This ensures proper extraction and the formation of a thick, golden crema on top.
Most of the best espresso machines under $200, like those from De’Longhi and Mr. Coffee, meet this standard. Avoid machines that don’t list their pressure rating clearly, as that can be a red flag for weak performance.
Check the Boiler and Heating System
A stable temperature is crucial for great espresso. Machines in this price range use one of two main heating systems:
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Single Boiler Systems: Common in budget machines, these handle both brewing and steaming. You’ll have to wait a few seconds between pulling a shot and frothing milk, but for home use, this isn’t a dealbreaker.
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Thermoblock Systems: These heat water on demand, which means faster startup times and more consistent temperatures. The De’Longhi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker, for instance, uses this design to minimize downtime between shots.
If you can, look for a machine with self-priming or automatic temperature recovery, both help eliminate waiting and make your workflow smoother.
Evaluate the Frothing System
If you love cappuccinos, macchiatos, or lattes, a reliable milk frother is essential. In this price range, you’ll find two types:
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Manual Steam Wand: Found on traditional models like the De’Longhi ECP series. These give you full control over texture and temperature, ideal for those who want to practice their latte art or craft precise microfoam.
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Automatic Frother: Found on machines like the Mr. Coffee Café Barista. You simply pour in the milk, adjust the froth level, and the machine does the rest. It’s a great option for beginners who want café-style drinks without the learning curve.
If you’re new to espresso, an automatic frother can be a game-changer, but if you’re eager to learn the art of steaming milk, go manual.
Build Quality and Materials
At the $200 price point, you’ll find both plastic and stainless steel builds. While plastic-bodied machines may be lighter and more affordable, stainless steel models are more durable, easier to clean, and generally feel more premium.
Look for features like:
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Metal boilers instead of aluminum ones
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Sturdy portafilters (preferably 51mm or larger)
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Solid knobs and switches rather than flimsy buttons
A heavier, well-built machine not only lasts longer but also helps maintain stable brewing pressure.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Espresso machines can get messy — it’s part of the charm, but also part of the challenge. To keep yours running smoothly, go for one with:
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A removable water reservoir (ideally over 30 oz capacity)
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A detachable drip tray for easy rinsing
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Accessible components for quick cleaning and descaling
Machines like the Mr. Coffee Café Barista and the De’Longhi ECP3630 both score high marks here, as their design makes cleanup a quick, no-fuss process.
Size, Space, and Aesthetic Fit
Don’t underestimate the importance of size. Some machines, like the Nespresso VertuoPlus, are compact and designed to fit neatly into tight spaces, while others, like the De’Longhi 15-Bar-Pump, take up a bit more room but offer sturdier construction and larger tanks.
Consider how much counter space you have, how tall your mugs are, and whether you plan to move the machine frequently.
Capsule vs. Ground Coffee Compatibility
Do you prefer the control of grinding your own beans, or do you want the convenience of pre-measured pods?
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Pod-based machines (like Nespresso) are nearly foolproof but lock you into specific brands.
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Ground coffee machines let you experiment with roasts, blends, and grind sizes, offering more flexibility for coffee enthusiasts.
Some hybrid machines, like certain De’Longhi models, even support both options, a nice middle ground if you like variety.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
When buying in the budget range, a reputable brand can make a huge difference. Companies like De’Longhi, Mr. Coffee, and Nespresso have established themselves as trustworthy names that stand behind their products.
Always check the warranty details. A one-year warranty is standard, but good customer support can be worth even more.
Think About Your Coffee Routine
Ultimately, your ideal espresso machine depends on how you like to drink your coffee.
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If you make one or two quick espressos in the morning, you’ll love a capsule-based system.
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If you enjoy experimenting, steaming milk, and pulling shots by hand, a semi-automatic machine will give you more satisfaction in the long run.
The best part of staying under $200 is that you can find well-made, versatile machines that don’t overwhelm you with unnecessary features.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to espresso machines under $200, there’s no shortage of solid options, but choosing the right one depends on your preferences.
If you want a traditional espresso experience with hands-on control and quality craftsmanship, the De’Longhi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker is your best bet. It’s reliable, durable, and built for espresso lovers who appreciate the process.
If simplicity and convenience are what you’re after, the Mr. Coffee Café Barista is hard to beat. Its one-touch operation and automatic milk frother make it ideal for beginners or busy households.
And for those who love modern design and effortless brewing, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe stands out with its quick heat-up time and luxurious crema, perfect for anyone who values ease and consistency.
At the end of the day, the best espresso machine under $200 is the one that fits your lifestyle. Whether you want to hone your barista skills or just hit a button for a quick caffeine fix, there’s a machine on this list that’ll make your mornings a little brighter and a lot more delicious.
