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10 Best Espresso Machines 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Breville Barista Max+ Espresso | Latte & Cappuccino Coffee Machine | Intelligent Grind & Dosage | Precision Extraction Timer | Integrated Milk Frother | 15 Bar Italian Pump | Silver [VCF153]

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Type of Machine
Boiler Type
Pressure
Type of Machine
Produces café-quality espresso with rich crema that rivals many coffee shops.
Boiler Type
Using manual controls to time shots and preheat cups results in hotter, better-tasting coffee than the automatic setting.
Pressure
Vibration during extraction can be loud enough to cause cup spillage, but adding silicone feet reduces this issue effectively.
Grinder
The integrated grinder with multiple settings allows fine-tuning for the perfect shot after some experimentation.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand heats quickly and can create smooth, frothy microfoam ideal for milk-based drinks once you master it.
Size and Design
Compact stainless steel design fits well in kitchens and offers a stylish, durable appearance.

The Breville Barista Max+ is a user-friendly espresso machine designed to help you make café-style coffee at home with ease. It comes with an integrated grinder offering 30 grind settings and smart dosage control, so you get the right amount of coffee grounds for a single or double shot without guessing. The machine uses a 15-bar Italian pump, which is great for creating the pressure needed to pull a rich espresso. It features a Precision Extraction Timer displayed on an LED screen, helping you time your shot perfectly for consistent results.

One of its standout points is the Temp IQ Shot Control system, which keeps water temperature stable during brewing—a key factor in good espresso taste. The powerful steam wand can froth milk into smooth, velvety microfoam, ideal for lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. Its silver finish and compact size (31 x 31 x 41 cm) make it a stylish and manageable fit for most kitchens.

The machine weighs 9 kg, making it less portable if you want to move it frequently. While it has many programmable features, it doesn't have a dual boiler system, so it can’t brew coffee and froth milk simultaneously—a minor wait when making multiple drinks. The built-in grinder is convenient but may not match the precision of standalone high-end grinders. This espresso machine is well suited for coffee lovers who want a straightforward, all-in-one solution with good control over grind size and extraction timing. It is especially handy for those who enjoy milk-based drinks and want to practice barista skills at home without a steep learning curve.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Type of Machine
Boiler Type
Pressure
Type of Machine
Produces café-quality espresso with rich crema that rivals many coffee shops.
Boiler Type
Using manual controls to time shots and preheat cups results in hotter, better-tasting coffee than the automatic setting.
Pressure
Vibration during extraction can be loud enough to cause cup spillage, but adding silicone feet reduces this issue effectively.
Grinder
The integrated grinder with multiple settings allows fine-tuning for the perfect shot after some experimentation.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand heats quickly and can create smooth, frothy microfoam ideal for milk-based drinks once you master it.
Size and Design
Compact stainless steel design fits well in kitchens and offers a stylish, durable appearance.
#2

Breville Barista Max Espresso Machine | Latte & Cappuccino Coffee Maker with Integrated Bean Grinder & Steam Wand | 2.8 L Water Tank | 15 Bar Italian Pump | Stainless Steel

Rating
9.8
Milk Frothing
Size and Design
Pressure
Milk Frothing
The steam wand is ready to use within around 5 minutes and can produce delicious frothy micro-foam-filled steamed milk for your milk-based coffees.
Size and Design
The stainless steel build looks good and it fits neatly on the kitchen work surface.
Pressure
The most significant problem with the machine is the loud vibration that will shake a two-cup setup apart, but this can be reduced with silicone feet.

The Breville Barista Max Espresso Machine is designed for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy café-quality beverages at home. It features an integrated bean grinder and a 15-bar Italian pump, ensuring that you get fresh and flavorful espresso every time. The Temp IQ Shot Control system is a standout feature, regulating water flow and temperature for consistent results.

The machine's one-touch grinder with 30 adjustable settings allows for precise control over the grind size, enhancing the flavor of your coffee. The full-size, cool-touch milk frother is ideal for creating velvety microfoam for lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos, adding versatility to your coffee-making experience. Measuring 31 x 31 x 41 cm and weighing 7.75 kg, it's compact enough for most kitchen counters yet sturdy and durable with its stainless steel design.

However, some users might find the machine a bit bulky and heavy to move around frequently. Additionally, while the integrated features like the grinder and frother make it user-friendly, they might require regular maintenance to keep the machine running smoothly. The machine has received positive feedback with a 4.2-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, indicating general satisfaction among users. This espresso machine is well-suited for those who want a reliable, all-in-one coffee maker capable of producing a range of beverages with professional quality.

Rating
9.8
Milk Frothing
Size and Design
Pressure
Milk Frothing
The steam wand is ready to use within around 5 minutes and can produce delicious frothy micro-foam-filled steamed milk for your milk-based coffees.
Size and Design
The stainless steel build looks good and it fits neatly on the kitchen work surface.
Pressure
The most significant problem with the machine is the loud vibration that will shake a two-cup setup apart, but this can be reduced with silicone feet.
#3

Breville Barista Mini Espresso, Latte and Cappuccino Coffee Machine 2L Water Tank Milk Frother 15 Bar Italian Pump Stainless Steel [VCF125]

Rating
9.7
Type of Machine
Boiler Type
Pressure
Type of Machine
This machine is incredibly beginner-friendly, making it easy to start brewing excellent espresso and milk-based drinks quickly.
Boiler Type
The steam wand heats up fast and can create smooth, velvety microfoam that enhances cappuccinos and lattes.
Pressure
The espresso shots are rich and well-extracted, producing crema that rivals or surpasses many coffee shops.
Grinder
Requires some trial and error to dial in the right grind size, dosage, and pull time for optimal coffee flavor.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand heats up fast and can create smooth, velvety microfoam that enhances cappuccinos and lattes.
Size and Design
Compact and stylish stainless steel design fits neatly in smaller kitchens without sacrificing quality.

The Breville Barista Mini is a compact espresso machine designed for coffee lovers who want café-quality drinks like espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos at home without complicated steps. It uses a 15-bar Italian pump and a 58mm group head, which help deliver rich and well-extracted espresso shots consistently. Thanks to its Temp IQ Shot Control, it keeps the water temperature steady, so your coffee tastes just right every time. This machine is easy to use, offering automatic control for single or double espresso shots, making it beginner-friendly.

A standout feature is its full-size milk frother that creates smooth, velvety microfoam, perfect for milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and flat whites. Its stainless steel design is sleek and fits well in smaller kitchens, with a manageable size and a 2-liter water tank that suits daily coffee needs. However, it does not have a built-in grinder, so you'll need to grind your beans separately for the freshest taste. The machine’s weight of about 6.7 kg means it’s stable on the counter but not the easiest to move around frequently.

The Breville Barista Mini is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make quality espresso and milk drinks at home with a compact, user-friendly machine. It performs well in temperature control and milk frothing but requires a separate grinder and is best suited for those with limited space who still want professional-style coffee.

Rating
9.7
Type of Machine
Boiler Type
Pressure
Type of Machine
This machine is incredibly beginner-friendly, making it easy to start brewing excellent espresso and milk-based drinks quickly.
Boiler Type
The steam wand heats up fast and can create smooth, velvety microfoam that enhances cappuccinos and lattes.
Pressure
The espresso shots are rich and well-extracted, producing crema that rivals or surpasses many coffee shops.
Grinder
Requires some trial and error to dial in the right grind size, dosage, and pull time for optimal coffee flavor.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand heats up fast and can create smooth, velvety microfoam that enhances cappuccinos and lattes.
Size and Design
Compact and stylish stainless steel design fits neatly in smaller kitchens without sacrificing quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Espresso Machines

Choosing the right espresso machine can greatly enhance your coffee experience at home. The key is to understand your personal preferences and how they align with the features of different machines. Consider how often you drink espresso, the level of control you want over the brewing process, and the space available in your kitchen. By focusing on the key specifications, you can find a machine that suits your lifestyle and coffee habits.
Type of MachineEspresso machines come in various types, including manual, semi-automatic, automatic, and super-automatic. Manual machines require the most skill and control, allowing you to adjust every aspect of the brewing process. Semi-automatic machines offer a balance between control and convenience, letting you manage the grind and tamp while the machine handles the brewing. Automatic machines simplify the process further, with preset options for brewing. Super-automatic machines do everything for you, from grinding the beans to frothing the milk. Choose based on how much control you want and how much effort you're willing to put into making your espresso.
Boiler TypeThe boiler is crucial for heating water to the right temperature for espresso. Single boilers are more affordable but require time to switch between brewing and steaming. Dual boilers allow simultaneous brewing and steaming, ideal for making multiple drinks quickly. Heat exchange boilers offer a middle ground, allowing you to steam and brew at the same time but with a single boiler. Consider how often you make espresso and milk-based drinks to decide which boiler type suits your needs.
PressurePressure is measured in bars and is essential for extracting the flavors from coffee grounds. Most machines operate at 9 bars, which is the standard for espresso. Some machines offer higher pressure settings, which can affect the taste and texture of the espresso. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you might opt for a machine with adjustable pressure settings. However, for most users, a machine with consistent 9-bar pressure will suffice.
GrinderSome espresso machines come with built-in grinders, which can be convenient and save space. The quality of the grinder affects the consistency of the grind, which is crucial for a good espresso. Burr grinders are preferred over blade grinders for their ability to produce a uniform grind. If you enjoy experimenting with different coffee beans and grind sizes, a machine with a high-quality grinder is beneficial. Otherwise, you might opt for a separate grinder to have more control over the grind.
Milk FrothingMilk frothing capabilities are important if you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos. Machines with steam wands allow you to manually froth milk, giving you control over the texture and temperature. Automatic frothers simplify the process, producing consistent results with minimal effort. If you frequently make milk-based drinks, consider a machine with reliable frothing options. For occasional use, a basic steam wand might be sufficient.
Size and DesignThe size and design of an espresso machine can impact where you place it in your kitchen and how it fits with your decor. Compact machines are ideal for small spaces, while larger machines might offer more features but require more counter space. Consider the aesthetics and how the machine complements your kitchen style. If space is limited, prioritize a machine that balances functionality with a compact design.