Best Steam Espresso Machines of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 29, 2026

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Steam espresso machines are a popular option for those who want to make espresso at home without spending a lot of money. These machines work by using steam to force water through the coffee grounds, creating a rich and flavorful shot of espresso. While they may not produce the same quality of espresso as more expensive machines, they are a great choice for those on a budget or who are just starting to experiment with making espresso at home. Steam espresso machines come in a variety of sizes and styles, so there is sure to be one that fits your needs and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Capresso 303.01 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine Cover #TOP 1
Capresso 303.01 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
ftb score rating icon 9.8
De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine Cover #TOP 2
De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Espresso Maker Cover #TOP 3
Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Espresso Maker
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Steam Espresso Machines

Capresso 303.01 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

303.01
Black
Capresso 303.01 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine Cover
Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine Black 13.25" x 7.5" x 9.75"

This semi-automatic espresso machine is easy to use and comes with a user guide to ensure proper use. It can make up to four cups of espresso or cappuccino at a time, making it a great choice for small households.

What We Like
Easy to use
Makes up to four cups at a time
Comes with a user guide for proper use

De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

EC260BK
Black and Stainless
De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine Cover
De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Compact Coffee Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure, Manual Milk Frother Steam Wand for Authentic Single & Double Espresso, Lattes & Cappuccinos, Tamper Included

The De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is perfect for those who want to craft authentic espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos in the comfort of their own home. With a 15 bar pump, this machine creates the optimal pressure to extract a single or double espresso according to espresso brewing standards. The manual milk frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured lattes and cappuccinos just the way you like them. The sleek, refined design and stainless steel elements make this the perfect addition to your kitchen countertop, without taking up too much space.

What We Like
Great value for money
Beginner-friendly operation
Compact and sleek design
Makes excellent espresso drinks
Encourages learning espresso skills

Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Espresso Maker

BVMCECM-STMMN-BL
Black
4- Shot
Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Espresso Maker Cover
Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Steam Espresso Cappuccino and Latte Maker with Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher

The Mr. Coffee Espresso Maker offers a powerful steam-brewing process that creates dark and rich espresso, perfect for your favorite Cuban coffee. With its extra-large portafilter, you can brew up to four shots at once, making it ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying multiple cups. The integrated frothing wand allows you to easily froth milk, so you can whip up delicious cappuccinos and lattes right at home. Additionally, the included water pitcher features measurement markings, ensuring consistency in your brewing and steaming every time.

What We Like
Powerful steam brewing
Extra-large portafilter
Integrated frothing wand
Measuring markings on pitcher

atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother

EM3111
A-Silver
Compact
atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother Cover
atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Pressure Espresso Maker, with 44OZ Removable Tank, Compact Stainless Steel Coffee Machine for Home, Office, Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men

The atatix Espresso Machine lets you craft your favorite espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos right at home, giving you a café-quality experience without leaving your kitchen. Its powerful 20 bar pressure system ensures your coffee is rich and full of aroma, delivering a great taste every time. The built-in temperature control keeps the water just right, so your espresso is brewed perfectly and consistently. Plus, the steam wand froths milk to a creamy, smooth texture, allowing you to create beautiful latte art and enjoy your coffee just the way you like it.

What We Like
Rich, flavorful espresso
20-bar pressure extraction
Easy to use and clean
Compact, stylish design
Effective milk frother
#TOP 5

CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Milk Frother

CM5418BC-UL
A-Silver
Small
CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Milk Frother Cover
CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker with Steam Milk Frother, Stainless Steel Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men, Silver

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is a semi-automatic 2-in-1 espresso maker that allows you to prepare all your favorite espresso-based coffees at home. It has a professional 20-bar pressure system and a milk frothing system that quickly textures creamy, rich microfoam milk, creating amazing milk foam art and enhancing the flavor of your brews. The compact, stylish and practical design makes it suitable for any size kitchen, and the 34 oz water tank allows you to brew multiple cups.

What We Like
Affordable price
Compact, slim design
Easy to use
Good espresso quality
Effective milk frother
#TOP 6

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine

BES450BSS1BUS1
Small
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine Cover
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic espresso machine that comes with a user guide to ensure proper use. It has a capacity of 47 fluid ounces and is made of stainless steel.

What We Like
Easy to use
Consistent espresso quality
Quick heating time
Good steaming performance
High build quality

Electactic 2025 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Grinder

Espresso Machine CM8031
Charcoal
Medium
Electactic 2025 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Grinder Cover
(2025 Upgrade)20 Bar Espresso Machine with Built-in Anti-Clog Coffee Grinder, Expresso Coffee Machines with Milk Steam Wand/Frother/Tamping Tools,Espresso Maker with Grinder for Lattes-Charcoal

The Electactic 20 Bar Espresso makes it easy for you to enjoy café-style coffee at home. Its upgraded grinding system prevents jams by quickly ejecting grounds, even from oily dark roasts, saving you time and mess. With 20 bars of pressure, this machine extracts rich flavors and creates a smooth crema, giving you a bold and aromatic espresso every time. The powerful steam wand helps you craft silky microfoam for lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites, adding that creamy texture you love. This espresso maker is designed to help you create barista-quality drinks with minimal effort, perfect for any coffee lover.

What We Like
Clog-resistant grinder
20 bar pressure
Rich espresso flavor
Powerful steam wand
#TOP 8

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine

BES870XL
Large
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine Cover
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a super-automatic espresso machine that offers all-in-one convenience for the home barista. It features a precision conical burr grinder, low pressure pre-infusion, digital temperature control, manual microfoam milk texturing, and a grind size dial. Customers have praised its full-featured, high-quality performance, but note that it requires some time to learn the machine and get the most out of it.

What We Like
Built-in grinder convenience
Consistent, café-quality espresso
Easy to clean and maintain
Premium, compact design
Great value for price

CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar

3700 ESSENTIAL
A-Silver
CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar Cover
CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel Cappuccino & Latte Machine with Steam Frother for Home, 43.9oz Water Tank, Coffee Gift for Women & Men, Silver

The CASABREWS 20 Bar Espresso Maker is a semi-automatic 2-in-1 coffee machine with a 20-bar professional pump and 1350W powerful motor. It features a milk frothing system with a powerful steam wand that creates a creamy, rich microfoam milk texture for latte art. The compact design is suitable for any size kitchen and the 49 oz water tank allows you to brew multiple cups, which is detachable for easy refilling. It comes with everything a coffee lover needs to get started, including a one cup brewing filter, two cup brewing filter, and instruction manual. With this espresso maker, you can easily make your favorite espresso-based coffees at home, such as latte, cappuccino, or macchiato, and awaken your inner barista.

What We Like
Easy to use
Fast brewing and steaming
Compact and sleek design
Good espresso quality
Affordable price

Chefman CraftBrew Digital Espresso Machine

RJ54-SS-15-D-AM
Stainless Steel
1.8 Liter
Chefman CraftBrew Digital Espresso Machine Cover
Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine, 15-Bar Pump Digital Espresso Maker w/Steam Wand for Latte & Cappuccino, Compact Espresso Coffee Machine w/ 1.5L Removable Water Reservoir - Stainless Steel

The Chefman CraftBrew Espresso lets you enjoy café-quality espresso right at home, saving you time and money by skipping the coffee shop lines. Its powerful 15-bar pump ensures you get a rich and bold espresso every time. You can easily make your favorite drinks like cappuccinos and lattes thanks to the built-in milk frother. The machine offers flexibility with two shot baskets and a steam wand, so you can brew single or double shots and customize your drinks. Plus, the large 1.5-liter removable water tank means you can make multiple cups without constantly refilling, making it perfect for entertaining guests or busy mornings.

What We Like
15-bar pump pressure
Built-in milk frother
Two shot baskets
1.5L removable water tank
Buying Guide Image

Deciding which Steam Espresso Machines is Best for Your House

There's nothing quite like the thrill of pulling the perfect shot of espresso. The rich, dark, velvety liquid flows smoothly into your cup, filling the air with its delicious aroma. It's a moment of pure pleasure and satisfaction, a moment that can only be achieved with the right tools and equipment. And when it comes to espresso machines, there's no better option than a steam espresso machine.

The Versatility of Steam Espresso Machines

Steam espresso machines are incredibly versatile, capable of brewing both espresso and steamed milk drinks. This means you can enjoy not only a delicious espresso, but also a perfectly frothy cappuccino or latte. And with a steam wand, you can even make hot chocolate or tea, making these machines an excellent choice for any home barista.

Choosing the Right Steam Espresso Machine

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right steam espresso machine for your needs? Here are a few key factors to consider:

  • Size and capacity: Steam espresso machines come in a range of sizes, from compact models that are perfect for small kitchens to larger machines that can handle multiple shots at once. Consider how much space you have available and how many drinks you'll be making at once to determine the right size for your needs.
  • Features and controls: Different steam espresso machines offer different features and controls, from simple manual machines to more advanced models with automatic milk frothing and temperature control. Consider what features are important to you and how much control you want over your espresso brewing.
  • Price: Steam espresso machines can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size, features, and brand. Determine your budget and look for a machine that offers the features and performance you need at a price that fits your budget.
  • Brand and reputation: Finally, consider the brand and reputation of the steam espresso machine you're considering. Look for well-known, reputable brands with a history of producing high-quality machines that are built to last.

Enjoy the Perfect Cup of Espresso at Home

With the right steam espresso machine, you can enjoy the perfect cup of espresso at home anytime you want. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just looking for a delicious way to start your day, a steam espresso machine is an excellent investment that will bring joy and satisfaction to your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better a steam or pump espresso machine?

For espresso aficionados, pump espresso machines are recommended over steam espresso machines. Steam machines have limited control over the brew, making it easy to over-extract the grind. On the other hand, pump espresso machines offer more control and are ideal for semi-professional baristas. There are various models available with different features to suit individual preferences.

2. Are espresso machines supposed to steam?

Yes, espresso machines use steam and heat to force water over the coffee grounds. The machine creates steam pressure by heating water to a rolling boil in a sealed chamber. The water is transformed into steam, which is then forced over the coffee grounds to extract the flavors and aromas.

3. Can you steam espresso shots?

Yes, with an espresso machine, you can steam espresso shots to create beverages like an Aerocano or steamed iced Americano. Simply brew a couple of espresso shots, mix them with cold water and ice in a milk pitcher, and then steam the mixture. Finally, pour it over more ice in a tall glass for a refreshing drink.

4. What is the best milk to steam with an espresso machine?

To achieve a rich and creamy froth, it is best to use whole milk or 2% milk. These milk options contain enough fat to create a smooth and velvety texture when steamed. Non-dairy alternatives like soy milk or almond milk can also be steamed and frothed to create a similar texture and taste to dairy milk.

5. What are the 3 types of espresso machines?

There are three main categories of pump-driven espresso machines: semi-automatic, automatic, and super-automatic. These machines use an electronic pump to drive pre-heated water through the brew chamber and into a bed of coffee. The electronic pump allows for consistent high pressure, resulting in a quality espresso extraction.

6. What is the 10 second espresso rule?

The concept of the ten-second espresso is a common belief in the coffee world. It suggests that a shot of espresso should be consumed or mixed with milk within ten seconds of brewing to maintain its flavor and quality. After ten seconds, the espresso may start to deteriorate in taste.

Editor's Notes

During our steam espresso machine research, we found 25 steam espresso machine products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 250,132 customer reviews through our big data system to write the steam espresso machines list. We found that most customers choose steam espresso machines with an average price of $159.85.

The steam espresso machines are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of steam espresso machines, including Capresso, De'Longhi, Mr. Coffee, atatix, CASABREWS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 16 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.