Selecting the right automatic espresso machine is crucial for anyone who loves coffee, whether you’re a novice to the world of espresso machines or an experienced barista making coffee for years. A good machine can make all the difference in the quality of your coffee, and it can also be a major investment.
The super-automatic espresso machine is a great invention that simplifies your morning routine. It has a built-in grinder, so you don’t have to spend time grinding the beans. All you need to do is push a button and wait for the delicious espresso shot to come out.
In this guide, we have reviewed the top 10 best super-automatic espresso machines and provided the detailed necessary information to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect automatic espresso machine.
A Quick Look at Our Top Picks
The following is a table that provides you with a comparative analysis of the top 10 best super-automatic espresso machines in the market today. We will take a look at some of the important factors such as bean hopper capacity, the size of the water tank, etc. to help you make an informed decision.
OUR TOP CHOICE De’Longhi Dinamica Automatic Coffee and Espresso Machine |
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Budget-friendly Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine w/ Milk Frother |
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Premium choice Jura E8 |
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Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso Machine |
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Jura D6 |
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Breville Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, Oracle Touch |
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Jura A1 Super Automatic Coffee Machine |
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Jura ENA 8 Metropolitan Black Coffee Machine |
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Gaggia Cadorna Prestige Super-Automatic Coffee Machine |
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Gaggia Brera |
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How to Choose an Automatic Espresso Machine?
When it comes to choosing the best espresso machine, it can be difficult to know where to start. There are many different machines on the market, and they all have different features that make them more or less desirable.
Also read: Some of the best coffee beans for espresso
For example, some machines have a built-in frother, while others do not. There are different features to consider, like the size of the machine, the type of water tank, and the type of coffee it makes.
If you are looking to buy a new machine, this handy buyer’s guide will help you make that decision much easier.
1. Milk Frothing
The milk frothing system is a crucial part of the process of making a great espresso. It is what creates the creamy texture and the perfect foam. However, not all automatic espresso makers come with an automatic milk frother.
Some have a manual steam wand that allows you to control the amount of steam that is released. The steam is used to create the crema on the espresso. It’s a great option if you have the time to froth your coffee every morning.
It will also help you hone your latte art skills if that’s your thing. If not, go for an espresso maker that has an automatic milk frother.
The Philips 3200 Series, for instance, has an automatic milk frother whereas De’Longhi Dinamica has a manual steam wand. That said, if you don’t prefer milk-based coffee, there are other machines available like the Jura A1 that don’t have a milk frothing system at all.
2. Programming Options
You can program this machine to make the perfect coffee!
Whether you want a stronger or lighter shot of espresso, you can program the machine to make your drink the way you want it. The most common programming option is the strength of the coffee. You can control the brew strength by changing the grind setting.
Moreover, you can set the machine to brew a single or double shot, or even a decaf shot. Coffee lovers can also regulate the amount of temperature and water used.
The icing on the cake? You can even set the machine to turn on or off automatically. Some models like the Jura D6 can also be operated remotely via your smartphone.
While some espresso machines have basic programming options, others have many. If you are a beginner, we suggest preferring ease of use over customizations. However, if you are a coffee fanatic and don’t mind the extensive customization features, choose an appropriate espresso maker that has them. The Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Maker is one such machine with plenty of personalization features.
3. Design/Build
The build matters because it determines the machine’s longevity. Almost all the espresso makers mentioned in this list have a robust build and great aesthetics. The Jura machines, in particular, stand out when it comes to eye-pleasing design.
Others like Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso machine are known for their sturdy build. When buying an automatic espresso maker, you should also consider the compactness of the design. Otherwise, you might end up buying a machine that doesn’t fit your counter space.
You will find plenty of space-saving espresso makers in this guide.
4. Types of Drinks
Are you looking for an espresso machine that produces basic beverages like americano and espresso or do you want different espresso drink styles such as latte, cappuccino, macchiato, and ristretto?
Depending on your fondness for specific espressos, you want to select the right machine. While some espresso makers like the Jura E8 offer 17 types of coffee drinks, others like the Jura A1 only provide three. The latter only brews ristretto, coffee, and espresso.
If you have family members with different taste preferences, choose a machine that can brew a wide variety of espressos.
5. Budget
When purchasing an espresso machine, budget is a significant factor.
The best espresso machines reviewed in this guide fall into one of the following price categories:
The Philips 3200 Series and Jura A1 are examples of budget espresso machines while Breville Oracle Touch is a premium pick. On the other hand, Saeco Xelsis falls in the mid-range price tag.
To make your job easier, we recommend starting with a budget in mind because espresso machines are a significant investment. Once you have the price bracket figured out, make a list of features that are important to you and leave out features that you can live without.
This way, you can select an espresso maker that has all the essential features and also falls within your budget.
Top 10 Best Automatic Espresso Machines Detailed Analysis
Now that you know how cost-effective and user-friendly espresso machines are, it is inevitable that you would like to get one for your home. Take your pick from the list of the top 10 best automatic espresso machines available in the market today:
1. De’Longhi Dinamica Automatic Coffee and Espresso Machine
The De’Longhi Dinamica is the one that takes care of your coffee needs, whether it be winter or summer outside. It has all the coffee drinks for a hot as well as cold brew, rich and full of flavor. It has an excellent steel conical burr grinder with 13 modes.
If you are very particular about the freshness of your morning espresso, De’Longhi Dinamica is a wise option. It ensures that every coffee bean is ground to perfection, and none is left behind. Therefore, every time you extract your espresso shot, you can rest assured that only the freshest beans have been used.
Not all machines in this list have a bypass grid feature, but this one does! It means that De’Longhi Dinamica can not only make brews from whole beans but also from pre-ground coffee.
Coffee connoisseurs laud the fantastic crema the machine produces. You also get a range of customizations, such as the strength of coffee, number of shots, milk frother, over ice or not, amount of water, and temperature. Beginners may find so many programming options a bit intimidating, but they would be pleasantly surprised with the machine’s capabilities once they get a hang of it.
It is also an excellent choice for vegans since it has a great frothing system for milk substitutes. Moreover, it lets you make lattes and cappuccinos with long-lasting foam even if you use cow-milk substitutes such as soy milk and almond milk. Using a cold substitute will provide even better results in this milk frothing system.
Advantages
- No wastage with only the exact amount of coffee beans utilized
- Great for busy people, taking just 40 seconds to heat up
- The conical burr grinder with 13 options provides a range of flavors from extra mild to extra strong
Disadvantages
- Lacks a display screen, so the manual has to be used repeatedly
2. Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine w/ Milk Frother
Sleek and polished with finesse, the Phillips 3200 Automatic Series comes with or without a milk frothing system attached to it. It has a modern control panel that can brew two coffees at once. Those who prefer milk-based coffee beverages such as latte, cappuccino, and so on will adore the steam-dispenser cum milk system that is attached to this Phillips model. If you do not have the requisite skills to apply the froth to your coffee, then Phillips 3200 is once again here for you – there are automatic milk-based menus (named the LatteGo) that offer you frothy drinks without the manual control required.
It can make a variety of coffee drinks such as americano, latte macchiato, coffee, cappuccino, and espresso. It also comes with a lot of accessories, including a grease tube, measuring scoop, LatteGo storage lid, and water hardness test strip.
It is one of the most affordable espresso machines on the list. The Philips 3200 Series features multiple customization options to adjust the strength, temperature, and cup sizes. Though it may be a little noisy compared to other espresso makers, it’s worth the investment to get barista-style coffee in the comfort of your home.
You also do not have to worry about the water temperature as the Phillips 3200 ensures that your perfect cup of coffee stays within 90 to 98 degrees. No more, no less!
Advantages
- Brews 4 kinds of coffee drinks, with or without the need for automatic milk frothing
- No loud noises from your kitchen
- Budget-friendly (under $1000)
- Has a 12-step burr grinder that offers you finely ground or slightly coarse coffee
- Seals in the coffee aroma
- Best value for money
Disadvantages
- Shuts off once it is done brewing so you will have to reheat your cup if you are late
- No steam wand and hence no manual frothing
3. Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso Machine
It features an automatic milk system, a ceramic flat burr grinder, and a two-cup function. With this machine, you can make cappuccino, espresso, caffe latte, americano, and latte macchiato.
Made by its parent company Philips, Saeco Xelsis is designed for frequent use. A great feature of Saeco Xelsis is its Coffee Equalizer. It allows you to adjust the coffee dosage, milk froth, and temperature to your liking.
The touchscreen display makes it easier to brew your daily cuppa joe. As far as the price tag is concerned, Saeco Xelsis sits comfortably in the mid-range market. This classic, stylish, and compact machine looks great in any kitchen.
Moreover, its bean hopper consists of an aroma seal that keeps your coffee beans fresh for a long time. Not to mention, Saeco Xelsis also features a bypass chute if you or someone in your family prefers pre-ground coffee instead.
One of the best super automatic machines, the Saeco Xelsis has a titanium front covering which prevents rusting. Because of its ceramic burr grinder, it is perfect for picky coffee drinkers and comes loaded with 15 different options for coffee drinks. The LatteDuo option enables you to get two cups of coffee together and a touch screen that allows you to log in with all of your preferences and get exactly the cup of coffee you desire for the day.
Advantages
- No burned flavor in your coffee beans since it has a ceramic burr grinder
- HygieSteam system cleans the entire machine at just the push of a button
- 12 grinder settings to choose from
Disadvantages
- Has individual milk storage
- Very high end, up in the money spectrum
4. Jura E8
One of the best automatic espresso machines in the world, it is made of high-quality materials (aluminum and plastic) and can be customized to suit your needs. It’s a machine that will last for several years to come and consistently produce the perfect cup of your daily espresso.
Moreover, it’s a favorite among coffee aficionados for its easy-to-read display, quality of the espresso, convenience, and durability. It also features both a zero-energy switch and auto-off mode, making it an eco-friendly coffee maker.
If you like to brew your coffee remotely, it is a perfect candidate. It can be easily connected with the brand’s mobile app, allowing you to operate it remotely. What’s more, you can make double espresso, cortados, and double-long coffee, with the press of a button.
However, it doesn’t offer double ristretto or ristretto options. Though slightly more expensive than other models, the Jura E8 is the ideal combination of quality and compactness. Despite so many features, it isn’t without a few drawbacks.
First off, you can’t save your custom beverages, which means you’d have to customize them every time you want to grab a cup of coffee. Apart from that, the display isn’t touch-compatible, so you’d have to work with buttons instead.
The popular coffee maker also doesn’t have an intelligent pre-heating system. Hence, it can cool down between brew cycles. That said, the features offered are indeed worth the money and are even comparable to some high-end machines.
For instance, the variable pressure extraction method used by the machine produces a complex aroma and delicious taste, which is as good as some expensive espresso makers. If you decide to get your hands on the Jura E8, you will get excellent performance and build quality at a competitive price point.
5. Jura D6 Automatic Coffee Machine
The Jura D6 is a brilliant option for those coffee enthusiasts who have arthritic hands and fingers. The machine has an ergonomic knob system that lets you control it easily. Moreover, you can also handle it from your connected smartphone.
It uses a burr grinder to make sure that the beans are ground uniformly. It also has a large water tank so you don’t have to keep refilling it. Adding a Jura D6 in your kitchen will ensure that you get coffee free of heavy metals and chlorine, thanks to its innovative water filtration system.
However, it doesn’t ‘look’ very high-tech as the display is quite simple (text display with a rotary switch). If all you care about is a rich cup of espresso that helps you stay alert through the day, the display shouldn’t matter.
The coffee spout is adjustable for different coffee cups and this also allows you to adjust the volume of coffee provided.
Advantages
- 6 different types of frothed milk-based coffee drinks with smooth milk foam
- Proper display with intuitive functions for those technologically not adept
- Sleek and minimalist style
Disadvantages
- The grinder is small and therefore the machine has to be moved around sometimes to let the coffee beans go through the narrow spout
6. Breville Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, Oracle Touch
Breville with its oracle touch is almost like a coffee shop inside a tiny machine. It has a stainless steel body that is minimalist in design. There is a dual boiler attached to it that can brew and steam at the same time. It is like your right-hand person as you rush to the office early in the morning.
With its simple one-touch operation and elegant design, the Breville Espresso Machine is a dream come true for coffee lovers. It is capable of making lattes and cappuccinos.
Moreover, it is compact enough to fit on a kitchen counter but powerful enough to bring the perfect coffee to your table. The Breville Espresso Machine also has a wide variety of programming features to choose from, so you can get your coffee just the way you like it.
The digital temperature control (PID) gives you a well-balanced cup of coffee, replete with all your personalizations. If your entire family has coffee drinkers, then Breville has you covered. It can save up to eight personalizations under different names.
Advantages
- Fully automatic with a user-friendly touchscreen for complete customization
- Over Pressure, Valve does not let your coffee taste bitter
- High-quality conical burr grinds
- Made of stainless steel
- Functions like a purely commercial coffee shop
Disadvantages
- The time to warm up is more than the average machine
- Highly-priced and top-of-the-range from Breville
7. Jura A1 Super Automatic Coffee Machine
It provides a coffee taste and texture to die for. The special Pulse Extraction Process enables you to cut down the grinding time in half while making sure that your cup of coffee has the same amount of flavor and aroma.
With the Pulse Extraction Process, you can make even difficult coffee drinks such as ristretto or espresso shots with this home-friendly machine.
It is a sleek, minimalist espresso maker that is as easy to use as it is to clean. It has a stainless-steel exterior and a clear, easy-to-read digital display. It is also a very affordable option for those who want to make espresso at home, but don’t want to spend a lot of money.
For those who wince at the idea of adding milk to their coffee, a machine that doesn’t have a milk system makes perfect sense.
It has a considerable number of programmable options (but not overwhelming) and a user-friendly touchscreen that allows you to keep 3 different coffee sizes and 2 strengths on the table.
Advantages
- Compact machine, ideal to keep even in small spaces
- Multi-level burr grinder that saves time
- Permanently programmed options
- Single-serve ‘
- Best value for money
- The pulse Extraction Process reduces the grinding time
Disadvantages
- The small water tank that needs refilling after every 2 or 3 cups
8. Jura ENA 8 Metropolitan Black Automatic Coffee Machine
Small yet super stylish, it is slightly bigger than its Jura A1 counterpart and has a bigger water tank. With plenty of pre-programmed options in the coffee menu and a colorful display, the Jura ENA 8 has intuitive touch buttons and all that is necessary for a great cup of coffee.
Advantages
- 10 specialty coffee drinks to select from, including latte macchiato.
- You can decide on the size of the coffee you drink
- Pre-programmable brewing temperature, water temperature, and strength of coffee
Disadvantages
- The water reservoir is smaller in comparison to the water tank in other similar machines.
- The power button is behind the machine making it difficult to access
9. Gaggia Cadorna Prestige Super-Automatic Espresso Machine
This is a professional espresso machine that is great for those who have fluctuating moods when it comes to coffee. Want an espresso today and a cafe au lait tomorrow? There are 14 options you can choose from with the Gaggia Cadorna Prestige. You can tailor-make your coffee based on pre-saved user profiles, up to 4 in number.
Most importantly, it is easy to clean because of its easily removable brew group. The Gaggia Cadorna Prestige Super-Automatic Espresso Machine is a brilliant option for those who live busy lives. Along with a brew group, it has a fast heating boiler and the pre-brewing feature enables you to get more flavor in your coffee as the coffee beans get soaked before grinding.
Advantages
- Splash-free espresso tray for the perfect cream layer
- 10 exclusive grinder settings to choose from
- Automatic cleaner
- Easy maintenance with detachable drip tray and brew group
Disadvantages
- It is quite pricey.
10. Gaggia Brera
The Gaggia Brera is the ultimate coffee station for all baristas. You can transition from steaming milk froth to hot water for making tea – all the while not having to stop the espresso-making process. It also has a stainless steel Panarello wand.
Personalization is the greatest space of pride for the Gaggia Brera. The Optimaroma technology maintains the coffee aroma and flavor and lets you decide how strong or rich a coffee you want. There are three options at the touch of a button. However, the brewing does not stop automatically even if the bean hopper is not full. In that case, you need to check the bean hopper often so that you do not get a watery espresso.
Advantages
- Customizable size of your coffee cup
- A small machine so it fits into any kitchen space
- Ceramic grinders enable no burned aroma or flavor
Disadvantages
- Too many options for those who do not wish to be a barista
- The water tank, as well as the bean hopper, is small
Final Verdict
There are 10 incredible options already laid out for you above. But, it is still difficult to make a clear decision regarding which works in your favor, right? Take a look at this compact section in which we have grouped them in order to provide you with a narrow list to choose from according to your needs.
All-Rounder Champion Automatic Espresso Machines: Saeco Xelsis
Saeco Xelsis provides the best in all areas of coffee making. It provides consistent performance in order to ensure steaming and tasty cups of coffee. Moreover, the brew group of this product is effective. There are 15 different brewing options (more than any other machine on the list), a two-cup brewing system, and enough customizations on offer regarding the brew group.
Budget-Friendly Automatic Espresso Machines: Philips 3200 Series
With technologically-advanced control panels and several customizations available, the sleek and stylish Philips 3200 Series packs a punch in a budget-friendly and compact machine, great for all coffee enthusiasts.
Espresso Geek Automatic Espresso Machines: Jura A1
All the espresso purists out there ought to look out for the Jura A1 espresso machine which has a high-quality design and several personalization options to check out. This espresso machine enables you to be your household barista and prepare espresso shots better than even the coffee shop nearby.
Some of our Espresso Recipes
- Starbucks blonde espresso copycat
- Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Shaken Espresso
- Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
FAQs
Can ground coffee be put into a coffee maker or is it designed only for whole beans?
Yes, it is possible to put ground coffee into automatic machines that is designed to make espresso, but it is not made for such coffee and it could potentially harm your machine with repeated use. Moreover, why would you deprive yourself of fresh coffee in this way, right?
What is the best super-automatic espresso machine for experienced home coffee lovers?
For experienced home coffee lovers, super-automatic espresso machines are not necessarily required. This is because a semi-automatic is enough for them. But for those who still want to go for the former, the Jura E6 is a great option and so is the Philips 3200 Series, all budget-friendly yet great.
Which is the best super-automatic espresso machine for offices and start-ups?
For offices and start-ups, the perfect automatic machine for making espresso is Jura Giga W3. It has over 43 specialty coffee drinks, a water tank of 169 ounces (wow!), a bean hopper capacity of 35 ounces, a heat-up time of just 78 seconds, and a complete touchscreen user-friendly interface.
Which kind of machine works best for making latte macchiato?
The Phillips 3200 series with LatteGo technology is the best appliance for making a latte or macchiato on a budget. It has LatteGo which mixes milk, air, and heat inside a special frothing chamber before putting it on top of your latte macchiato. Without the use of tubing, the Phillips 3200 series is a way more hygienic option than other options.
Why do most coffee machines break?
The major causes of the breakdown are the following:
1. Lack of cleaning: Even the best espresso machines have to be cleaned. It is hygienic and reduces clogging of the group head.
2. Calcium buildup: The pump or the heater/sensor elements can get damaged due to calcium buildup.
3. User trouble: The most common user error is to pour something on the machine. Also, do not over-tighten the filter holder.
4. Manufacturing trouble: Usually, this is rare for super-automatic espresso machines but loses bolts or a factory-clogged filling valve.
Why do espresso machines tend to have two spouts?
Espresso machines tend to have two spouts not just because it looks super cool and you can get marvelous photographs. The espresso machines with two spouts control the flow better and are much easier to debug than when only one stream flows. Adding a bottomless portafilter also works like magic.