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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
10.0
Chosen by1,169
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
10.0
Chosen by1,169
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
10.0
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
10.0
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

Ninja Luxe Premier 3-in-1 Coffee Machine, Latte, Cappuccino, Cold Brew & Espresso Maker With Built in Bean Grinder & Milk Frother, Easy to Use, 4 Automated Froth Presets, Silver, ES601UK

Rating
9.9
Type of Machine
Grinder
Milk Frothing
Type of Machine
Effortlessly handles multiple coffee styles, from cappuccinos to cold brew, making it a truly versatile machine.
Grinder
The hands-free frothing wand and grind customization elevate the home coffee experience to café-quality.
Milk Frothing
The hands-free frothing wand and grind customization elevate the home coffee experience to café-quality.

The Ninja Luxe Premier 3-in-1 is a versatile coffee machine that combines espresso, cold brew, and filter coffee options with a built-in burr grinder and milk frother. This makes it a great choice for those who want multiple coffee styles in one device without needing separate machines. It offers 25 grind settings, which means you can customize your coffee strength and flavor. The machine’s hands-free frothing wand is a standout feature, delivering four froth presets that work well for different milk types, including plant-based options. This makes creating café-style lattes and cappuccinos easier, even for beginners.

The integrated scale and barista assist technology guide you to consistently balanced coffee, which helps if you're still learning how to get the perfect shot. In terms of size, it’s moderately large (about 34 x 35 x 37 cm) and weighs nearly 16 kg, so it will need a dedicated spot on your kitchen counter. The silver design is modern and sleek, fitting well in most kitchens. The dishwasher-safe removable parts help with cleaning, which is a bonus.

Some users might find its size a bit bulky or the learning curve with 25 grind settings more than needed if they want simple operation. This machine suits coffee lovers who appreciate variety, like experimenting with grind and froth, and want an all-in-one setup rather than a dedicated espresso machine alone.

Rating
9.9
Type of Machine
Grinder
Milk Frothing
Type of Machine
Effortlessly handles multiple coffee styles, from cappuccinos to cold brew, making it a truly versatile machine.
Grinder
The hands-free frothing wand and grind customization elevate the home coffee experience to café-quality.
Milk Frothing
The hands-free frothing wand and grind customization elevate the home coffee experience to café-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.