It is tempting to invest in a cheap espresso machine, as it is cost-saving. But its quality may change after some, which can lead to other expenses in the future.
If you plan to buy a coffee maker and have a budget of $500, you can already enjoy a quality espresso machine.
You can be sure your option is free of any low-quality construction materials and can provide a good cup of espresso with smooth and thick crema.
You can also use a stylish espresso machine that perfectly blends into your kitchen countertop beyond your expectations.
Now, what are the best espresso machines under 500 that will level up your experience? Good question and you are in the right place!
Breville BES810BSS
Who wants to buy a coffee maker that does not make a good cup of espresso? Nobody would love that. Worry no more, as Breville BES810BSS can come into play. It is equipped with a 15 bar pump to maintain the pressure and the water temperature.
- It has a pre-infusion function.
- Available with a state-of-the-art PID temperature management technology.
- It comes with a manual steam wand for precise frothing.
- Developed with a maintenance indicator, so you will know when to clean the espresso machine.
- It features a 61-ounce water tank.
- It takes a lot of time to heat.
- It is big and not recommended for a small space.
Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine
Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine is recognized as a tried and tested espresso machine for a reason. It is made with a rugged stainless steel housing, which increases its longevity and durability. More than that, it features brushed exteriors, incredible temperature control, and 17.5 bars of pressure.
- The controls are easy to navigate and beginner-friendly.
- The portafilter was designed for commercial purposes.
- A pannarello wand is also included in the package.
- It is compatible with classic ground coffee and ESE pods, making it a versatile option.
- The build quality is up to par.
- It is built to last for years.
- It takes a while to heat up.
- Some customers do not like its classic design.
Breville-Nespresso USA BEC720BLK Nespresso
From style to functions, Breville-Nespresso USA BEC720BLK has them all. It is not only beautiful but also can take your espresso-making experience to another level. While some brands are only available in a single color, this one is different, as it comes in three options, including brushed stainless steel, black sesame, and cranberry red.
- Equipped with 19 bar pump
- It can help you make a cup of delicious espresso with a higher level of consistency.
- It keeps the water at the perfect temperature, thanks to its PID temperature control.
- More cutting-edge than BES810BSS.
- It is powerful.
- It requires a larger space.
- It also takes time to heat, just like the rest.
KitchenAid KES6403DG
For our fourth spot, we highly recommend KES6403DG from KitchenAid. Aside from the style, it also excels in function and ease of use. If you are a beginner and do not have enough time to prepare a cup of espresso, KitchenAid KES6403DG got your back.
- There are six cup sizes to choose from.
- A milk frother is also included in the package.
- It offers a 1.3-liter water tank.
- Making your favorite espresso can be done within a few minutes or less.
- Easy maintenance
- It is durable and dependable, thanks to its metal die-cast construction.
- It creates a loud noise.
- It is only compatible to Nespresso capsules.
Saeco HD8645/47
Who wants to use a manual espresso machine? Of course, everyone would love to make a cup of espresso with a super-automatic coffee maker, and HD8645 from Saeco can exceed your specific needs and requirements.
- Known to deliver an addicting shot of espresso
- It has an integrated grinder with at least 5 settings
- User-friendly, which only requires a press of a button
- It is a self-cleaning espresso machine
- It features a quick heat boiler
- There is no long waiting time
- Available with a sleek and modern design you would enjoy
- Its grinder creates too much noise
- The water tank is too small, so you need to check it more often than necessary
Breville BES840XL
Breville BES840XL has remained a top option for many coffee lovers for years now. Why is that, you may wonder. Well, it provides a wide variety of features. It comes with a pre-infusion function responsible for applying low water pressure during the early stage of extraction.
- Built with a 1600w thermocoil heating system that comes with an integrated stainless steel water coil.
- Constructed with an auto-purge function that adjusts the water temperature consistently.
- It offers a 15 bar Italian pump.
- There are many accessories to expect, including a water filter with holder, cleaning disc, coffee scoop, and more.
- The design is too simple.
- It has a limited capacity.
Gaggia R19380/46
The Gaggia R19380/46 is another top favorite for coffee lovers out there. It is competitively priced while providing a great list of features for entry-level brewers. The design, for instance, is addicting. It is also lightweight.
- It provides a 17 1/2 bar pressure pump.
- Available with a high-voltage boiler.
- It features a three-way solenoid valve.
- Ideal for brewing cups of espresso for you, your parents, and your closest friends.
- The portafilter and grouphead consist of marine-grade brass and chrome plating, making it heavy-duty and long-lasting.
- It comes with a hot water dispenser, cup warmer, and a frother.
- It does not allow a hands-on customization.
- The design is simple. But it is still catchy.
Gaggia Brera Espresso Machine
Have you been using a manual espresso machine for years already? Do you want to make a cup of espresso within a minute or two? Whatever your case may be, the Gaggia Brera espresso machine will never be a disappointment.
- Although it is one of the old school espresso machines, it can perform well.
- It is super-automatic.
- Built with a bypass grinder and a 17 bar pump
- It features a steam wand that is made of stainless steel.
- It comes with a 40-ounce water tank.
- There is portafilter or tamping required.
- Limited warranty
- Even if it is user-friendly, it is challenging to utilize for beginners.