What Is The Best Home Espresso Machine, Australia 2023
If you’re looking for the best home espresso machine Australia, you’ll find there are countless options out there. If you don’t put some thought into finding the best espresso machine Australia offers, you could end up feeling frustrated later on when you realise certain features are missing.
The base of any cafe style coffee drink is a good espresso. Once you learn how to prepare it correctly, you’ll want to experiment with different recipes. I find espresso delicious and sometimes difficult to get right, that’s why I think it’s so important to find the best espresso machine for home use.
When most people look for the best coffee espresso machine, they think about how to obtain barista-level drinks with the best device available. I remember the days when this took a lot of practice, but nowadays, you can achieve great results, regardless of your skill level, even with the best cheap espresso machines.
If you’re like me, you’ll first go and search home espresso machine reviews to make an informed decision. Well, I’ve done the research, so you won’t have to, and rounded up the top products.
From the best small espresso machines to the largest, you’re one step closer to choosing the right machine, so you’ll start your day with the best cup of coffee possible, without spending a fortune on takeaway options.
“This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”
Contents
- 1 Our Top Pick for the Best Home Espresso Machine, Australia: Breville Barista Express
- 2 Espresso Machine Comparison Chart
- 3 Quick Reference: Best Espresso Machine, Australia
- 4 Types of Coffee Machines
- 5 Features of the Best Espresso Machine For Home
- 6 Espresso Machine Reviews, Australia
- 6.1 Delonghi Icona Pump
- 6.2 Sunbeam Cafe Espresso
- 6.3 Sunbeam Mini Barista
- 6.4 Delonghi Dedica Pump
- 6.5 Breville Barista Express
- 6.6 Breville Bambino Plus
- 6.7 Sunbeam EM7100
- 6.8 Breville The Oracle
- 6.9 DeLonghi La Specialista
- 6.10 Delonghi Eletta Cappuccino
- 6.11 Delonghi Magnifica
- 6.12 Delonghi PrimaDonna Elite
- 6.13 Breville All in One
- 7 Recap of Our Favourites
Our Top Pick for the Best Home Espresso Machine, Australia: Breville Barista Express
I really love the Breville Barista Express as a great all round espresso machine for your home that still offers a great amount of flexibility and customisable settings. You can freshly grind the beans and dial in your espresso perfectly which is something I really miss with the super automatic machines.
Espresso Machine Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick comparison of all the best home espresso machines reviewed in this article.
| Product | Image | Type | Tank Capacity | Milk Frother | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delonghi Icona Pump |  | Semi Automatic | 1.4 L | Y | 3.8/5 | Check Price! |
| Sunbeam Cafe Espresso | | Semi Automatic | 1.7 L | Y | 4.3/5 | Check Price! |
| Sunbeam Barista |  | Semi Automatic | 2 L | Y | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
| Delonghi Dedica Pump |  | Fully Automatic | 1 L | Y | 4.5/5 | Check Price! |
| Breville Barista Express |  | Fully Automatic | 2 L | Y | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
| Breville Bambino Plus |  | Fully Automatic | Y | 4.7/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Sunbeam EM7100 |  | Manual | Y | 4.7/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Breville The Oracle |  | Combination | 2.5 L | Y | 4.3/5 | Check Price! |
| Delonghi La Specialista |  | Semi Automatic | 0.4 L | Y | 4.2/5 | Check Price! |
| Delonghi Eletta Cappuccino |  | Super Automatic | Y | 4.7/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Delonghi Magnifica |  | Super Automatic | Y | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Delonghi PrimaDonna Elite | | Fully Automatic | 1 L | Y | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
| Breville |  | Semi Automatic | 1.7 L | Y | 4.4/5 | Check Price! |
Quick Reference: Best Espresso Machine, Australia
- Delonghi Icona Pump
- Sunbeam Cafe Espresso
- Delonghi Dedica Pump
- Sunbeam Mini Barista
- Breville Barista Express
- Breville Bambino
- Sunbeam EM7100
- Breville The Oracle
- DeLonghi La Specialista
- Delonghi Eletta Cappuccino
- Delonghi Magnifica
- Delonghi PrimaDonna Elite
- Breville All in One
Types of Coffee Machines
One of the most frequent questions I get is: How do I know what type of espresso machine to buy? The answer is not as simple. If you want the best espresso machine at home, it will depend on several factors, such as your personal style, kitchen type and most importantly, your budget.
To narrow down your choices, I’ll explain the types of machines and give you my best picks in each category. Once you choose the right machine for you, you’ll be one step closer to preparing coffee-shop quality espressos.
Manual Machines
As the name suggests it, the user does all the work. It’s the traditional way of making coffee. You will need to pull a pump handle to make the espresso.
I would say this pump espresso machine is for the coffee connoisseur that enjoys the experience of making coffee in the very traditional sense.
De’Longhi and La Pavoni produce the best manual espresso machines. You’ll find these brands a bit on the expensive side, and even though they’re fun to use, it does require focus and a certain level of skill.
If you choose a manual machine by any of these brands, you can be sure you’ll get the highest quality in the market.
Semi Automatic Machines
This machine is user friendly and requires some manual work, but pump controls and boiler temperature settings are automatic.
Semi automatic espresso machines are a very popular option. The difference between semi-automatic and fully automatic machines is that you decide when to stop the shot pulling. It’s a perfect balance between manual and automatic, which is a plus when you like control and convenience at the same time.
If you like to get more hands-on, you’ll be able to do your own tamping and experiment with different tastes. This type of device is also one of the most affordable options if you’re looking for the best espresso machine in Australia.
Fully Automatic Machines
Fully automatic espresso machines are very similar to semi-automatic machines except for the automatic water flow control. This feature guarantees consistent volume in each shot and prevents overflowing. These types of machines are the most used in coffee shops.
The best automatic espresso machines, also called “bean to cup” machines, feature a menu to select your type of coffee. They include an automatic built-in grinder and water is heated to the perfect temperature. Basically, you’ll just have to push a button and wait for the perfect espresso to brew out of the machine.
For consistent results and less effort, this fully automated machine is a perfect choice.
If you want to explore more automatic coffee machines for your home, take a look at our full article on automatic coffee machines here.
Super Automatic Machines
This machine includes all the bells and whistles and is a step above fully automatic espresso machines. It eliminates all the guesswork, and it’s practically like having an at-home barista.
The super-automatic is the most expensive option out there, and cheaper models aren’t as flexible. However, many have the potential of customizing options, which gives you some control over the brew.
Some have programmable options and are designed to automate every phase of the process. In a nutshell, for efficiency and convenience, there is no better device than the super-automatic espresso machine.
Stove Top Espresso Machines
One of the staples of Italian culture, the stovetop espresso machine or Moka pot is one of the most effective and humble machines to make a strong cup of coffee.
Invented in 1933 by Italian Engineer Alfonso Bialetti and patented by Luigi De Ponti, this company continues to produce these stovetop espresso machines with the same basic design.
Named after the Yemeni city of Mocha, the Moka pot moves boiling water, pressurized by steam through the ground coffee to make delicious espresso. It’s so reliable that it continues to be the best stovetop espresso maker you can buy.
If you prefer drip filter coffee, find the best on the market here.
Combination Machines
It’s a combination coffee maker and espresso machine that allows you to brew your favourite drip coffee and espresso in one device. They come in many designs, sizes, some have wands, others pull shots and brew coffee simultaneously.
A combination machine makes sense if your primary concern is a machine that will save you space and have the versatility to make different kinds of drinks. You can find them in many forms, from manual to automatic and anything all-in-one is really convenient.
If you want the best of both coffee worlds, these machines are a great choice, even though they will be pricier and may take up more space than your standard brewers.
Features of the Best Espresso Machine For Home
If you enjoy your morning coffee-making ritual, as much as I do, you’ll appreciate a good espresso machine for home. Whether you’re looking for the perfect double shot or whip up a latte, you’ll want to invest in the right machine for you.
Here we’ll go through the basics, so you have a general idea of their features and benefits.
Capacity
You should always take into consideration the water tank capacity, especially if you’re looking into a compact espresso machine. Water is needed to make the espresso and to produce steam for the milk frother.
The larger the water tank, the more espresso shots you will be able to pull out without constant refilling. If you are making coffees for many people at home, then take a double look at the size of the tank.
To determine water level on the machine, some will have sight glasses, and others will indicate when water gets low enough or will shut off until the water is refilled.
Milk Frother
Most of the best entry level espresso machines don’t come with a milk frother, and the ones that do may be more expensive. The good news is that you can buy affordable frothers for home use.
A milk frother works by adding air into the milk, either whisking it with a coil or with pressured steam (which are the best milk frothers in my opinion) to create bubbles and giving it a creamy consistency.
You can select from automatic frothers to hand-held devices, or use the steam wands attached to your espresso machine.
Grinder
The grinder is the first step to making espresso; it unlocks the flavour hidden within the beans. I always recommend an espresso machine with built in grinder, it will make your life easier.
Another benefit of having a built-in grinder is that it’ll give your coffee that extra kick and fresh taste.
Cleaning
I believe that the best espresso coffee machines for home need to be easy to clean.
You will find that the best espresso maker will have an automatic cleaning function with just the push of a button, or with easy to clean parts. And remember to descale your machine regularly, regardless of what your water is like.
Other Features
We’ve covered most of the basic features of a good espresso machine, but if you want to take your caffeine devotion to the next level, consider the following features:
LED Display – Find a machine with a LED digital display. You will find it easier to navigate and will be able to program it.
Timer Preset Function – Some brands allow you to preset your machine so you’ll have a fresh cup of coffee as soon as you wake up. An auto-shot system is also helpful to save energy.
Cup Warmer – If you live in a colder climate, this feature is perfect for you. A warming tray so your coffee is kept warm and prevents it from getting cold too quickly.
Descale Indicator – When minerals in the water, such as calcium and magnesium, build up on the machine’s heating element, you’ll need to descale your machine periodically. Top-rated brands will include a light indicator advising when it’s time to descale, and others will include instructions on how to handle it.
Espresso Machine Reviews, Australia
Take a look at our espresso coffee machine reviews and choose which of these top espresso machines is the best for you personally.
Delonghi Icona Pump
Perfect espresso machine for people who are coffee lover but with a limited budget, you can quickly make a cup of coffee within 5 mins in the morning and easy to clean it up afterward.
– Amber
Specifications
- Type: Semi-automatic Espresso
- Capacity: 1.4 Liters
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 29 x 26 x 31.5 cm
This Delonghi espresso machine has a stylish design and compact size, which makes it perfect for smaller kitchens. Despite its small size, it’s highly functional; it can produce two cups at the same time in different ways.
It includes a milk frother and delivers 15 bars of pressure, which is plenty to make a good coffee. With a 1.4L water container, you can go for a while before refilling.
The Icona could be the best espresso machine on a budget; it’s user friendly with a high-quality shot. With easy removal of components and a simple cleaning process, this budget-friendly machine will take care of your needs.
What we like
- Good value for your money
- Perfect cup of coffee within 5 mins or less
- Easy to clean and easy to use.
What we don’t like
- Won’t fit large coffee cup
- Not practical if you require multiple coffees at a time
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Sunbeam Cafe Espresso
Specifications
- Type: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 1.7 Litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 30.3 x 27.1 x 36.5 cm
- Pressure: 15 bar pump
This 15 bar espresso machine from Sunbeam has a sleek design in silver and black and is user friendly as well. With thermoblock technology, it heats up very quickly.
The tray is big enough to hold a coffee mug and easily detaches for cleaning. The attached milk frother is also consistent and easy to use.
With excellent reviews, this budget friendly machine offers great value for reliably good coffee.
What we like
- Delivers fantastic shots of coffee
- Simple, unassuming and does what it needs to
- Steam wand is fantastic
What we don’t like
- Good for entry level
- Very basic features
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Sunbeam Mini Barista
I’ve had this machine for a week now and have made a dozen coffees or so. The warm up time is fairly quick, at most 60 seconds, and the crema it produces is good. I would recommend this machine to anyone who likes cappuccinos!
– Tony N.
Specifications
- Type: Semi automatic
- Capacity: 2 Litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 29.5 x 25 x 33 cm
- Pressure: 15 bar pump
This Sunbeam Mini Barista is simple to operate and at a great price too. Thermoblock technology ensures a fast heat-up and regulates temperature for consistently great-tasting coffee. The Auto Shot Volumetric Control measures just the right amount of water needed for one or two shots of espresso.
The full size, cool touch milk frother produces dry steam that creates perfect milk foam for lattes, flat whites and cappuccinos.
This machine will surprise you with its ingenious design and excellent coffee and comes in two colours, silver and black.
What we like
- Easy to use and produces great quality coffee
- Fantastic machine for its price
- Easy to refill water and easy to clean
What we don’t like
- Noisy
- Basic features
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Delonghi Dedica Pump
It has been the best machine so far. We use it every day and it has been pretty faultless for over 18 months. Quick to heat milk, stops the coffee flow after a given time and is much thinner in size so we can fit it easily on the bench.
– Eddi
Specifications
- Type: Fully Automatic
- Capacity: 1 Liters
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 33 x 14.9 x 30.3 cm
- Pressure: 15 bar pump
I love how slim this machine is (15 cm), and it comes in four beautiful colours (black, white, red and stainless steel). It looks gorgeous on any countertop without taking much space.
You’ll find this automatic machine very user friendly, even with the different programs, which include water temp, water hardness, amount of grinds, standby time and auto milk frothing.
Super quick to warm up, and easy to clean, with a removable drip tray in case you want to use a large coffee mug. Good value for your money.
What we like
- Fuller flavour & stronger coffee
- Uses far fewer beans
- Less messy and easy to use
What we don’t like
- Not practical if you require multiple coffees at a time
- Less creamy froth
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Breville Barista Express
Upgraded from a basic Breville I had for about 10 years that never missed a beat. After a bit of adjustment, this machine is great! Read the instructions, use good beans – you won’t be disappointed.
– Mal
Specifications
- Type: Fully Automatic
- Capacity: 2 Liters
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 41 x 44.4 x 41.8 cm
- Pressure: 18 bar pump
This model from Breville is the best automatic espresso machine with a built-in grinder. With stainless steel and black exterior design, it’s quick to heat up and easy to use.
A great machine with proven quality, you will love the pressure gauge that will help you produce great tasting espresso.
The reviews for this Breville are incredibly positive, making it a great machine with barista-level coffee at home.
What we like
- Great machine overall
- Barista quality coffee at home
- The built-in grinder is a plus
What we don’t like
- Pricey
- Extra-wide
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Breville Bambino Plus
Specifications
- Type: Fully Automatic
- Capacity: 1.9 Liters
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 32 x 19.5 x 31 cm
Delivering barista-quality performance the Breville Bambino Plus could be the best automatic coffee machine under $1000. With a compact and elegant stainless steel design, it won’t take too much space.
Ready to make your best coffee without the wait, this 15 bar machine heats up quickly, and the auto milk frothing function takes less effort from you.
The automatic steam wand allows you to adjust the milk temperature and texture to suit your taste. This is an awesome, fast, and affordable little machine that can genuinely recreate cafe-quality drinks at home.
What we like
- Great temperature stability
- Small and compact
- It is super easy to make coffee with minimal cleaning and mess
What we don’t like
- No built-in grinder
- Expensive
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Sunbeam EM7100
I use the pods when I’m in a rush and beans when I have time and don’t mind making a mess. The fact you can interchange between was a big plus for me but make perfect coffee every time.
– Charlie
Specifications
- Type: Manual
- Capacity: 3 litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 43.6 x 53.3 x 40.5 cm
This manual espresso machine with twin thermoblock is a high-performance device. With twin pump and twin gauge technology, it heats very quickly.
There is a dedicated capsule handle that gives you the option of enjoying your favourite bean flavour or the convenience of a capsule. Compatible with Nespresso, Caffitaly, Lavazza A Modo Mio systems.
What we like
- Heats up quickly
- The additional capsule option
- Good temperature and pressure control
What we don’t like
- Issues with Nespresso capsules
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
>>>Click here to check price on Catch.com.au<<<
Breville The Oracle
Specifications
- Type: Combination
- Capacity: 2.5 litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 44.4 x 53.6 x 46.2 cm
The Breville has some of the best coffee machines available in the market, and The Oracle is not the exception. This hybrid machine is a coffee lover’s dream.
The Oracle is a combination of a semi-automatic and fully automatic coffee machine. It comes with a built-in grinder, a fully automatic coffee temping mechanism and auto-milk frothing. You can choose between the manual and automatic settings, depending on how much control you want.
And if you’re wondering about the coffee taste, well, let me tell you, it’s delicious!
What we like
- Name and customise up to eight drinks
- Self-cleaning steam wand
- An investment for your coffee-loving future
What we don’t like
- On the expensive side
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
DeLonghi La Specialista
Specifications
- Type: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 0.4 Liters
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 42.4 x 44.4 x 51.5 cm
This semi-automatic coffee machine has very exciting features that let you forget about the guesswork in making a coffee. And being a Delonghi, you can expect high-quality craftsmanship and capacity, and the price is hard to beat.
Sensor grinding technology and the smart tamping station will give you consistent results without the mess. It performs like commercial quality machines.
The dual heating system and smart grinding technology make this machine one of the most popular online.
What we like
- Makes brilliant coffee
- It is very easy to operate and is of great quality
- It has fantastic features
What we don’t like
- Can’t see water level of the reservoir
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Delonghi Eletta Cappuccino
Specifications
- Type: Super Automatic
- Capacity: 2 litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 46 x 26 x 36 cm
This compact Delonghi is a super-automatic cappuccino maker that does it all. In black and silver with an LCD display, it makes everything, from grinding your coffee beans to producing the perfect espresso shot and pouring the exact amount of milky foam – all with the simple push of a button.
The Eletta’s milk frother is detachable so you can remove it if you don’t need it, and is easy to clean. The cup warming system will ensure your espresso cup is always at the perfect temperature. There’s an attachment for hot water if you like long blacks or if you simply want to make tea.
This machine is very easy to clean and more than a match for your favourite coffee shop espresso.
What we like
- It looks nice, is easy to use, and easy to clean
- Provides great flavour coffee
- It cleans itself and the screen keeps you informed
What we don’t like
- None. Love this machine!
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Delonghi Magnifica
Specifications
- Type: Super Automatic
- Capacity: 1.8 litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 43 x 23 x 34 cm
This Delonghi has excellent reviews and is a top seller in its category so it was an easy choice for me to buy this year. A super-automatic machine at an affordable price, the Magnifica has impressed me over the last 3 months. I feel like I’ve really tested it out and used all the functions available. It’s easy to use, produces great crema and easy to clean when you’re done.
This compact machine with large water tank allows you to prepare two espressos at the same time, and the cup warmer function preheats your cup for a better experience.
The automatic milk frother is easy to use once you have a couple of practice runs and is easy to clean. With the option to prepare up to 8 different drinks, if you’ve always dreamt of becoming a barista, this could be the machine for you.
What we like
- Perfect all-in-one coffee machine
- Manually frothing the milk is no hassle at all
- Its very user friendly and clean
What we don’t like
- On the expensive side
- Will require regular maintenance
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Delonghi PrimaDonna Elite
Specifications
- Type: Fully Automatic
- Capacity: 2 litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 48 x 26 x 37.5 cm
If you are looking for the best Delonghi coffee machine Australia has to offer; the PrimaDonna Elite is one of the best espresso machines on the market. With so many specialised features, you can make practically any drink you like.
A touch screen menu that will appeal to those that like a more hi-tech look on their countertop. A milk frother with a dial that lets you select from 3 milk settings, and is easy to clean with a cleaning function after each use. The detachable milk container can be stored in the fridge when not in use.
Other amazing features include a built-in grinder, a large 2-litre tank and a drip tray to catch any spillages. There’s even Bluetooth connection and an app so you can make drinks from your phone! You can be sure this versatile bean-to-cup machine will produce your favourite coffee shop drinks and make your life easy with only the touch of a button.
What we like
- Love the way you can customise the coffee and create a profile name
- Bluetooth connection and a downloadable app
- Descaling is easy and the machine does all the work
What we don’t like
- Will take some practice to use
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Breville All in One
Specifications
- Type: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 1.5 litres
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 48 x 26 x 37.5 cm
This Breville coffee machine is perfect for all your coffee needs! From your favourite espresso, filter coffee or capsules, this machine has it all. With a compact design and LED display, the auto-detection shows only the brew options for the chosen attachment.
The large 1.7-litre water tank is easy to fill and to remove for cleaning. The 15-bar pump will produce a quality espresso every time, and the steam wand creates perfect cappuccinos, lattes or flat whites.
If you want to use the filter coffee setting, there is a 1.5-litre carafe that will keep coffee warm, and a permanent filter basket, it eliminates paper filter cost and waste. The Dolce Gusto capsules are compatible with the Breville All in One. And for those days when you’re rushing through your morning, it will fit most travel cups.
What we like
- The filter coffee container can keep the coffee hot for 2 hours
- Great all-in-one system
- Makes an excellent espresso
What we don’t like
- Issues with capsule settings
>>>Click here to check price on Amazon<<<
Recap of Our Favourites
| Product | Image | Type | Tank Capacity | Milk Frother | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delonghi Icona Pump | | Semi Automatic | 1.4 L | Y | 3.8/5 | Check Price! |
| Sunbeam Cafe Espresso | | Semi Automatic | 1.7 L | Y | 4.3/5 | Check Price! |
| Sunbeam Barista | | Semi Automatic | 2 L | Y | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
| Delonghi Dedica Pump | | Fully Automatic | 1 L | Y | 4.5/5 | Check Price! |
| Breville Barista Express | | Fully Automatic | 2 L | Y | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
| Breville Bambino Plus | | Fully Automatic | Y | 4.7/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Sunbeam EM7100 | | Manual | Y | 4.7/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Breville The Oracle | | Combination | 2.5 L | Y | 4.3/5 | Check Price! |
| Delonghi La Specialista | | Semi Automatic | 0.4 L | Y | 4.2/5 | Check Price! |
| Delonghi Eletta Cappuccino | | Super Automatic | Y | 4.7/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Delonghi Magnifica | | Super Automatic | Y | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
| Delonghi PrimaDonna Elite | | Fully Automatic | 1 L | Y | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
| Breville | | Semi Automatic | 1.7 L | Y | 4.4/5 | Check Price! |
If you fancy other coffee machines for your home, check out our favourites here or explore our coffee makers page for in-depth reviews.
Sophie Marie
Sophie is a barista and coffee enthusiast who has owned and ran a coffee truck in her remote community since 2017. She wants to cut the jargon and make brewing coffee enjoyable for everyone.
