
De'Longhi · Espresso Machine
De'Longhi Dedica EC685
~$249
Grinder sold separately
Allow for an espresso-capable grinder in your setup budget.
Space-constrained beginners wanting a slim, affordable entry into espresso

Breville · Espresso Machine
Beginners wanting an all-in-one machine with grinder and guided tamping
Built-in grinder
This machine includes a grinder. You do not need to buy a separate grinder for espresso, although one may suit other brew methods or a future upgrade.
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The Barista Express Impress integrates a conical burr grinder, intelligent dosing sensor, and an assisted tamping mechanism that applies consistent 22-lb pressure—removing two of the most common beginner failure points. PID temperature control and a pre-infusion cycle are included, and the machine can produce genuinely excellent espresso within days of first use. The integrated grinder is good but not as capable as a dedicated standalone unit, which limits the machine's ceiling for advanced users.
Wired — reviewed as a solid bang-for-buck all-in-one espresso machine
Read the full expert review
De'Longhi · Espresso Machine
~$249
Grinder sold separately
Allow for an espresso-capable grinder in your setup budget.
Space-constrained beginners wanting a slim, affordable entry into espresso

Gaggia · Espresso Machine
~$475
Grinder sold separately
Allow for an espresso-capable grinder in your setup budget.
Espresso enthusiasts who want to learn technique and have a machine with upgrade potential

Breville · Espresso Machine
~$499
Grinder sold separately
Allow for an espresso-capable grinder in your setup budget.
Beginners wanting automatic milk steaming in a compact machine