Best semi-automatic espresso machine will be a good investment in a long term if
you crave a cup of yummy morning coffee instead of paying a little buck everyday for familiar coffeeshops.
Also, it would be an excellent option for you to learn barista skills and brew a variety of espresso-based drinks at your home’s comfort.
As you might know, there is a broad spectrum on the market ranging from low-budget to top-of-the-line products.
Also, if you don’t want to be discouraged with all the manually complicated calculations and stuck with all fancy functions, but prefer half-auto and half-manual models, so you’ve come to the right place.
In this ultimate review, I’ve covered 15 best semi-automatic espresso machines to help you choose the right one.
What Are Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines?
If the automatic machine has a fully automatic coffee making process, then the semi-automatic appliance might have only a few automated functions. The best thing here is that you still can affect the coffee quality by manually adjusting extraction time.
Semi-automatics might have some standard features: a boiler, a portafilter, a Start/Stop button to control the pump for extraction.
So a semi-automatic coffee is often not integrated with other functions such as grinder, so you need to buy a separate one if you prefer freshly-ground coffee.
Most semi-automatic coffee makers are integrated with a traditional steam wand, so in addition to espresso, the machine can also make delicious drinks such as cappuccino, latte.
With a semi-automatic process, the barista can quickly intervene in the brewing process, so this machine is suitable for those with some basic bartender knowledge, professional barista. Hence, the machine helps to unleash their creative skills.
Which Are The Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine?
Breville, Mr. Coffee, and Gaggia are top brands of the best Semi-Automatic espresso machine thanks to optimal espresso extraction, easy to use, and durability. Besides, De’Longhi, Klarstein, and EspressoWorks are also trusted for affordability, powerfulness, and functionality.
Below are my best Semi-Automatic espresso machines I have picked. Take your time and have a closer look at all the outstanding features.
- Best Overall – Breville the Barista Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Nice design, excellent built-in grinder, variable settings for optimal espresso extraction, steam wand included.” - Best Budget – De’Longhi EC155 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Provides many conveniences with reasonable price, high-quality plastic outer case and stainless steel core, able to froth milk.” - Best Entry-Level – Mr. Coffee Café Barista Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Sleek and well design, hybrid espresso maker with large water tank capacity and clear instruction for newbies.” - Best With Grinder – EspressoWorks AEW1000 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Set of essential 7-piece espresso accessories, 15-bar pump system, effective Thermoblock System with 2-blade separate grinder.” - Best for Home Use – Rancilio Silvia Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Designed for home-use with commercial-grade group heads, ergonomic porta-filter and steam wand, durable, sleek design.” - Best Under $200 – Klarstein Passionata Rossa Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Brushed stainless steel and red espresso machine, powerful 20-bar pump, removable and large water tank.” - Best Under $500 – Gaggia RI9380/46 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“A lot of commercial parts, for home-use and entry-level brewers, trusted brand, for both ground coffee and pods.” - Best Small – De’Longhi Essenza Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Powerful, pod-based espresso machine with 19-bar pressure pump, energy-saving functions, has small footprint.” - Best Commercial – Bezzera Magica E61 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“Unique E61 group head, 15-bar pump, joystick-styled knobs, able to make great-tasting espresso shot.” - Best Double Boiler – Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
“PID control and heated group head for excellent espresso shots with consistent quality, large water tank, dual-boiler machine with pre-infusion function.”
Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Comparison Chart
Before going into each product carefully, I would like to give you general information about dimensions, weight, material, color and input power of 15 best semi-automatic espresso machines.
In this way, it’s useful for you to prioritize before the final decision.
Top 15 Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Reviews in 2023
Keep reading to find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of 15 best semi-automatic espresso machine products
1. Breville the Barista Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Overall)
If you’re looking for a semi-automatic espresso machine with a professional look and effective built-in grinder, you’ve come to the right place. The Barista might be an ideal option that you should consider seriously.
Firstly, it features an iconic burr grinder with many settings that allow you to manage the grind size and control the exact ground coffee amount in portafilter for freshly-made espresso shots.
Secondly, it has a compact design compared to other machines so that you can save more space for other appliances in the kitchen. Due to its height, you’d better check carefully to make sure it fits your kitchen counter.
Thirdly, Digital temperature control (PID) does a duty to adjust water heat to ensure perfect espresso extraction.
Finally, the convenient steam wand is essential to prepare milk foam and coffee arts quickly.
Key Features:
- The powerful heating system of 1600W
- Includes pressure gauge for visual tracking
- Stainless steel iconic burr grinder with many useful settings
- PID for water heat adjustment
- Steam wand for quick and easy making milk foam
- 67-oz water tank and 8-oz bean hopper
- Clean me” light signal the next cleaning cycle
Pros
- Well-built machine
- Easy-to-follow control panel instruction
- Auto-cleaning for maintaining stress-free cleanliness
- No need to clean as often as other espresso machines
- Built-in grinder for freshly ground beans
- Comes with a lot of accessories
- Hands-free operation
Cons
- Quite heavy
- The tamper might be a bit light
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 23 pounds |
| Dimensions | 12.5 x 12.6 x 13.1 inches |
| Brand | Breville |
| Color | Stainless steel, black sesame |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual, Built-in grinder |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
See more about this incredible product below:
2. De’Longhi EC155 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Budget)
When you aim for maximum benefits with minimum price, De’Longhi EC155 is the product you should bear in mind.
Thanks to elegant color and minimalist design, this machine complements perfectly to my kitchen. Moreover, with a 12.2 x 19.3 x 15 inches dimension, it has a relatively small footprint, which appears excellent for modest spaces.
The outer casing is made of high-quality plastic, and the inside core is made of stainless steel, so if you handle it with care, you won’t have to worry about its durability.
In terms of functionality, with 1100W power, this appliance can generate 15 bar pump professional-grade pressure. Additionally, it takes 45 seconds for the machine to heat up and serve cup by cup without waiting time in between due to Advanced Cappuccino System.
De’Longhi EC155 features a milk frother, patented dual-function filter holder, a drip tray, and a removable water tank.
Key Features:
- Swivel jet frother produces decorative foam for perfect latte and cappuccino
- 3-in-1 filter holder for more convenience
- 2 separate thermostats for perfect temperature control
- 15-bar pump
- Automated priming
- 1100 input power
Pros
- Compact, sturdy and durable machine
- Portable
- Easy-to-follow control panel
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Space-saving design
- Inexpensive
- Cleaning is a breeze
Cons
- The steam wand seems to be shorter than I expected
- It might be great for people who enjoy a quick cup in the morning before going to work, not for people who loves experimenting on different coffee tastes
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 6.67 pounds |
| Dimensions | 12.2 x 19.3 x 15 inches |
| Brand | De’Longhi |
| Color | Black |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Have a closer look at this espresso machine from De’Longhi to see how it fits your needs:
3. Mr. Coffee Café Barista Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Entry-Level)
If you are new to the espresso machine and are interested in improving your barista skills, you could start with Mr. Coffee Café Barista.
This machine features a well-thought-out design with clear labels and instructions for newbies. In my opinion, learning how to make the first cup of espresso is a breeze. To add to your excitement, you can make cappuccino and latte with just a button presses.
It features 1040W input power with a 15-bar pump system. That means you have all the pressure you expect to extract a tasting shot of espresso.
There are two drip trays available for your convenience: one is a regular tray, the other is a height adjusting tray for smaller cups.
Key Features:
- 3-in-1 coffee maker
- The power input of 1040W with 15-bar pump system
- Clear control panel with one-hit buttons
- Removable water tank and milk reservoir
- Automatic milk frothing
- Auto shut-off function
Pros
- A simple and straightforward machine
- Able to do both automatic and manual operations
- Comes at an affordable price
- Suitable for making espresso-based drinks
- Quick brewing time
- Doesn’t take up much space
Cons
- It might take more time to clean than you expect
- It lacks the temperature stability of the boiler
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 10.37 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.22 x 8.86 x 12.6 inches |
| Brand | Mr. Coffee |
| Color | Silver |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
4. EspressoWorks AEW1000 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best With Grinder)
EspressoWorks AEW1000 comes as a set of 7 pieces, including the espresso maker, a stainless steel 12.7-oz milk frothing pitcher, a portafilter, a single shot filter basket, a double shot filter basket, a measuring spoon, and a tamper, a separate bean grinder, and two ceramic 3.6-oz cups. That is to say, it’s an ideal gift set for any coffee lovers.
On top of that, the 15-bar pump system and one-touch espresso button allow you to have a cup of yummy coffee in no time. As you might not know, this machine takes only 45 seconds to get ready.
Moreover, with the Thermoblock Heating System’s aid, you will get your coffee at the right temperature instantly.
I love front view 1.25-liter water tank because I can easily track the water level and fill it up when needed.
Last but not least, the bean grinder provides huge convenience and make sure you have freshly-ground coffee all the time.
Key Features:
- The motor of 1350W with a 15-bar pump system
- Comes with many essential attachments
- 12.7-oz milk frothing cup, two 3.6-oz ceramic cups, and a 1.25-liter water tank
- Includes espresso mode
- 45-second heating time
- Removable front-view water tank
- Separate bean grinder
- Effective Thermoblock System
Pros
- Ideal all-in-one gift set for coffee fans
- Able to produce consistent espresso quality
- Simple to use
- Easy to clean
Cons
- The grinder is not a burr type but a 2-blade one, so it might not grind as evenly as you expect
- You couldn’t adjust the temperature to customize your taste preferences
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 9.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.75 x 9 x 11.5 inches |
| Brand | EspressoWorks |
| Color | Multi-color |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual, grinder |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Click and watch more detailed reviews about EspressoWorks AEW1000:
5. Rancilio Silvia Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best for Home Use)
This Italian espresso machine is designed for home use. However, it includes many professional-grade components to ensure a restaurant-quality coffee cup every day.
Thanks to commercial-grade group heads, it has the capability of delivering high-quality extraction and heat stability compared to other semi-automatic machines. Not to mention, the premium 58mm ergonomic portafilter is also attributed to greater-tasting espresso shots.
Besides, the chrome-plated steam wand allows you to make various espresso-based drinks with an attractive milk foam layer.
Rancilio Silvia features stainless steel housing with a durable iron frame so it can undoubtedly stay with you for a long time.
Key Features:
- Comes with commercial-grade group heads and steam wand
- Professional 58mm ergonomic porta-filter
- The extra-large 67-oz water reservoir
- Stainless steel housing with iron frame
- Brass single boiler
Pros
- Built-to-last machine
- Home-use espresso maker with many professional-grade components
- Able to pre-heat cups for better brewing results
- Easy of use
- Cleaning is a breeze
Cons
- It requires exact grind size to make an excellent shot of espresso, so you need to spend time to experiment first
- No preset coffee cycles is available
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 30.8 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.2 x 11.4 x 13.3 inches |
| Brand | Rancilio |
| Color | Stainless steel |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
See more details about this useful appliance here:
6. Klarstein Passionata Rossa Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Under $200)
If you’re bored of plain black and white espresso machine and are looking for ones with more stylish color, I strongly recommend Klarstein Passionata Rossa. Thanks to brushed stainless steel and colorful accent, it can uplift your kitchen space instantly.
This equipment can work well with both ground coffee and coffee pods, so it’s up to you to choose the type of coffee that you prefer.
Featuring 1350W input power with the pressure pump of 20-bar, Klarstein Passionata Rossa is more than enough to make a delicious and flavorful espresso shot. What is more, you can make a latte, cappuccino, or macchiato with the nozzle attachment, which is removable if you need more storage space.
Key Features:
- Sophisticated design with stylish red color
- Removable mesh drip tray for easier cleaning after every use
- 1350W input power with a 20-bar pump system
- 41.6-oz water tank
- Removable nozzle attachment
- Plastic and rubber porta-filter
Pros
- A compact yet powerful espresso machine
- Intuitive operation
- Suitable for ground coffee and espresso pod
- Quick cleaning time
- Great value for money
Cons
- You might find it difficult to maintain consistent water temperature and pressure cup to cup
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 12.17 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 14.4 x 11 inches |
| Brand | Klarstein |
| Color | Red |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Let’s discover more about this attractive coffee machine:
7. Gaggia RI9380/46 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Under $500)
This entry-level Italian Gaggia Classic Pro espresso machine has been known among coffee brewers for a long time. The product has been upgraded with a new commercial steam wand, which you can manually use to create the milk foam texture you want.
At first glance, it appears small and seems not to take up much space in your kitchen counter. That means it’s a good choice for people who are living in modest space.
Gaggia Classic Pro features durable stainless steel housing, so if you handle it with care, this machine can surely grow old with you.
What is more, there are two commercial baskets: single and double shots for different uses. Beside ground coffee, this equipment is also compatible with coffee pods.
You can fill the water tank from the top or remove it then add water from the front of the machine for your convenience.
Key Features:
- Brushed stainless steel machine
- Commercial steam wand for better milk foam
- Commercial 58mm portafilter
- Commercial single and double shot baskets
- The power of 1450W
- Plastic drip tray
Pros
- Well-known espresso maker
- Includes many commercial-grade parts
- No guesswork when using
- Quieter than other machines
Cons
- It might be a bit difficult to froth milk
- Cleaning after use is quite challenging
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 20 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.5 x 8 x 14.2 inches |
| Brand | Gaggia |
| Color | Multi-color |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
8. De’Longhi Essenza Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Small)
De’Longhi Essenza is designed for busy people who don’t want to wait long for a yummy espresso cup, especially when they’re in a hurry. As you might not know, this machine can be ready to serve in only 30 seconds.
With a 19-bar pressure pump, this appliance is able to extract espresso with maximum flavor and aroma you expect.
Notably, it has a compact and sleek design that can fit in a small space and complements any kitchen style. Moreover, this model is energy-saving due to eco-mode and auto-shutoff function.
There are two cup sizes for you to select: Espresso (40ml) and Lungo (110ml).
Additionally, the water tank and drip tray are all simple to disassemble for cleaning.
Key Features:
- 19-bar pressure pump
- Pod-based espresso machine
- Heats up quickly in 30 seconds
- Energy-saving functions
- Compact and sleek design
- Notification LED light for more conveniences
- Store up to 6 used capsule
Pros
- Well-built appliance
- Portable espresso machine
- Has a small footprint
- Easy to use and clean
- Affordable
Cons
- It might have a smaller water reservoir than expected
- A bit noisy when operating
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 4.35 pounds |
| Dimensions | 4.3 x 12.8 x 8.1 inches |
| Brand | De’Longhi |
| Color | Black |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
How to daily use your espresso machine:
9. Bezzera Magica E61 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Commercial)
People have intention of making business with coffee might want to have a closer look at Bezzera Magica. This machine can help you create barista-like cups of espresso, cappuccino, or latte with ease.
First and foremost, the unique E61 group head allows water to circulate through it for maintaining high temperatures.
Plus, the 15-bar pump creates ideal pressure for extracting maximum flavors and aromas from the beans you choose.
That is to say, this machine ensures you have the best espresso shot.
What is more, Bezzera Magica features a water tank with a capacity of 4 liters, which appears more extensive than many popular models in the market. It also comes with special joystick styled knobs for more flexible control.
Besides 3-way solenoid valve enables you to brew continuously without any interruption.
Key Features:
- The robust input power of 1450W with a 15-bar pump
- 4-liter water tank
- Unique E61 group head
- Heat-exchanging two-liter copper boiler
- Joystick style knobs
- Cup warmer rack
- Convenient two manometers
Pros
- Sophisticated and sleek design
- Able to make espresso, steam milk, and pour hot water at the same time
- The super large water reservoir
- Able to keep track of extraction pressure and boiler pressure
- Automatic water refill
Cons
- Pricey
- It might not be ideal for newbies
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 50 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 12 x 17 inches |
| Brand | Bezzera |
| Color | Silver |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Watch this for more useful information:
10. De’Longhi Lattissima Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
This De’Longhi Lattissima Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine owns an attractive look with brushed aluminum finish and stylish design. Not to mention, the compact size makes it ideal for your kitchen and surely complements the space it’s in.
In terms of function, it allows you to brew a cup of coffee in no time with a wide range of Nespresso choices. All you need to do is to choose the mode for espresso, lungo, ristretto, cappuccino, latte macchiato or warm milk on the touchscreen and wait.
As such, you and your family can enjoy coffee easily, especially in early hours when everyone is rush to their offices.
On top of that, it comes with one-touch milk system to save you more time and energy. After use, you can store the milk unit in the refrigerator for freshness.
Key Features:
- Professional look with touchscreen control panel
- 19 bars of pressure
- Comes with a milk frother
- 16-ounce milk carafe
- 6 programmable buttons
- Auto-clean mode
- Rapid heating time
Pros
- Stylish design and well-made construction
- Easy to use
- Time-saving coffee maker
- Can adjust milk foam texture
- Able to make cappuccino and latte machiatto
Cons
- The milk might not get hot, just lukewarm
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 12.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 10.79 x 7.6 x 13 inches |
| Brand | De’Longhi |
| Color | Silver |
| Included/Integrated Accessories | User’s manual |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
Brew with De’Longhi and see how much you like it:
11. Breville The Infuser Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Breville The Infuser is a decent semi-automatic espresso machine that provides you with everything you need to satisfy your morning coffee cravings.
Thanks to the pressure gauge, you are aware of how much pressure in the boiler when brewing so you can make necessary adjustments to improve day-by-day espresso shots.
Notably, the Infuser comes with a three-way solenoid valve that completely drains redundant water from the portafilter. Moreover, the program button allows you to make espresso with ease. Additionally, the auto-purge function is quite exceptional.
Breville The Infuser offers many useful accessories so that you could be ready for your first coffee cup immediately. These attachments include 2 single-wall filter baskets for 1 cup and 2 cups, two dual-wall filter baskets for 1 cup and 2 cups, a measurement spoon, a tamper, and stainless steel jug, cleaning disc & tablets, a cleaning tool, and a water filter with holder.
Key Features:
- PID temperature control
- 1.8-liter removable water tank
- 1600W heating system
- 54mm portafilter
- Powerful 15 bar triple-prime pump
- Pressure gauge monitor for tracking boiler pressure
- Auto-purge function
Pros
- Produce great-tasting espresso-based drinks
- Able to maintain temperature stability
- Quick heat-up time
- 360-degree steam wand with swivel action for easier milk frothing
- Comes with LED notified “Clean me” light
- Includes a lot of accessories
Cons
- The tamper might be too light to use
- You might need to spend time experimenting before mastering this machine and produce the shot that satisfies your taste
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 60 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16 x 11 x 17 inches |
| Brand | Breville |
| Water tank capacity | 1.8 liters |
| Built-in Grinder | No |
| User’s manual | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Watch this video below to see how it works:
12. DeLonghi La Specialista Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
If you want to simplify the coffee-making process at home as much as possible, DeLonghi La Specialista might be what you are looking for, plus at a reasonable price.
Many coffee lovers favor this equipment because of its automatic sensor grinding technology. That means La Specialista can measure and deliver you the right amount of freshly-ground coffee for one or two espresso cups. Moreover, the built-in tamper makes prepare the coffee extremely simple without any mess.
My first impression with DeLonghi La Specialista is its professional interface with stainless steel housing. The more I work with this machine, the more I know it’s not only about the look but also its professional functionality.
This product allows you to choose between flat or foam milk frothing mode for latte and cappuccino to make brewing easier.
Key Features:
- Comes with 250g bean hopper
- 2-liter water reservoir
- Built-in burr grinder with automatic sensor grinding technology
- Conveniently integrated tamper
- Two modes for milk frothing
- Front pressure gauge monitor
- 3 programmable coffee modes
- Dual-heating system
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Comes with smart technology for better brewing
- Professional look
- Includes built-in grinder and tamper
- Quick heating time
Cons
- It’s impossible to see the water level of the tank
- Due to its height, it might not fit your kitchen counter
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 29.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.48 x 12.48 x 13.98 inches |
| Brand | DeLonghi |
| Water tank capacity | 2 liters |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes |
| User’s manual | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
Look closer at the product for more information:
13. KitchenAid Nespresso Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
KitchenAid Nespresso is designed to use only Nespresso coffee pods, so if you’re a fan of this type of modern and convenient coffee, let’s have a look at the product.
With all-metal, die-cast construction, this product appears durable and sturdy. Moreover, I like this model because it’s available in many elegant and eye-catchy colors. Therefore, it could become a decorative unit in your space.
When it comes to functionality, the machine can be ready in only 30 seconds, so it’s perfect for a morning coffee cup before heading to work. With 6 preset programs, you can quickly select depending on your taste preferences by dialing the knob.
The lever is designed to insert pods, start heating the water, and channel it to the capsule and through the coffee.
Last but not least, KitchenAid Nespresso features an adjustable shelf to hold different sizes of cups.
Key Features:
- The input power of 1160W with 19-bar pressure system
- Pod-based espresso maker
- Easy loading Nespresso capsule system
- Only 30-second starting time
- 6 variable preset brewing settings
- All metal die-cast construction
- Big 1.3-liter water tank
- Able to store up to 14 used capsules
Pros
- Retro and classy styled machine
- Sturdy and durable, long-lasting unit
- Allows you to choose brew strength depending on personal taste
- Quick heat up time
- Large storage capacity
- Takes no time to clean after use
Cons
- Only compatible with Nespresso capsules
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 19.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 13 x 8.2 x 13 inches |
| Brand | KitchenAid |
| Water tank capacity | 1.3 liters |
| Built-in Grinder | No |
| User’s manual | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
14. Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
(Best Double Boiler)
With PID control, you will have more confidence in brewing with accurate temperatures for excellent espresso shots. Not to mention, the heated group head will also contribute significantly to temperature stability.
What is more, this machine features a pre-infusion function, and you can even program the time and pressure of this step according to your preference.
Thanks to the dual boiler, you can brew and steam simultaneously and save more time, especially in crowded hours.
Additionally, OPV valve decreases extra pressure so you can’t go to high and finish with undrinkable shots. Another worth-mentioning feature is a three-way solenoid valve, which helps pull excess water from the system and ready for a new brewing cycle right away.
Key Features:
- Dual boiler espresso maker with heated group head
- Digital temperature control (PID) technology for consistent temperature
- OPV valve
- 3-way solenoid valve
- Programmable pre-infusion function
- Backlit LCDs
- Pressure gauge monitor
- Commercial steam wand
Pros
- Deliver excellent espresso shots with consistent quality
- Can brew and steam simultaneously
- Able to keep track and control the brew temperature and pressure
- Notify when the water tank needs to be refilled
- Comes with adjustable pre-infusion function
Cons
- It might take up much space in your home
- You might need to wait for a longer time to warm up than you expect
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 30 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.7 x 14.8 x 14.7 inches |
| Brand | Breville |
| Water tank capacity | 84 oz |
| Built-in Grinder | No |
| User’s manual | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
15. Gaggia Carezza De LUXE Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Gaggia Carezza De LUXE is made of abs plastic combined with stainless steel. As you can see, it’s designed with rounded lines, which makes the machine look softer and also more solid to ensure durability during use and to minimize vibration when operating.
Preset mode buttons, pressure gauge monitors, and indicator lights are displayed on the machine’s front body on an elegant oval metal face. They are easy to operate as well as easy to keep track of everything happening when brewing.
You can choose to make 1 cup, 2 cups, and also use coffee pods. This machine is able to give you a cup of espresso with the perfect crema layer, which is thick and lovely as the cups of coffee that a professional barista makes.
With Gaggia Carezza Deluxe, you can enjoy making barista-like espresso-based drinks at home.
Key Features:
- Abs plastic housing with stainless steel details
- 47-oz front access water reservoir
- 15 bar vibration pump
- Professional-size 18g portafilter basket
- Pressure gauge indicator
- Auto-shutoff in 9 minutes
- Pre-infusion function
- Pannarello wand for milk frothing
Pros
- Sleek design with silver color
- User-friendly operation with clear control panel
- Contains commercial-grade parts
- Low-cost machine for the value it delivers
- Good milk frothing
- Rapid heating
Cons
- No integrated grinder
Product Specifications:
| Item Weight | 13.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11 x 8.3 x 11.8 inches |
| Brand | Gaggia |
| Water tank capacity | 47 oz |
| Built-in Grinder | No |
| User’s manual | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Click to see how Gaggia Carezza Deluxe works:
How To Buy the Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
There are some buying guides you can refer to when selecting the best Semi-Automatic espresso machines for your need and budget.
Boiler Type
Single Boiler
The machine has one boiler with a pair of thermostats: One indicates the water temperature while the other is responsible for the steam for milk.
You can switch from one function to the other and won’t be able to perform both tasks at the same time
Single Boiler – Heat Exchanger
A single-boiler coffee machine with a heat exchanger includes a boiler for steaming.
Simultaneously, there is a spiral copper tube that goes through the boiler. When operating, the pump will carry cold water straight from the source through the heat exchanger system. Here, the water is heated to the ideal temperature for brewing.
It’s possible to brew and steam simultaneously.
Dual-Boiler
In this model, the pump will work with two separate boilers, one for extracting espresso and boiling water. That means you can brew and steam at the same time. However, those machine with dual-boilers often cost a fortune, so you should consider your needs carefully before purchasing
Ease Of Use
No matter which manual, semi-automatic, or super-automatic machine you choose, the essential factor is that they need to be comfortable to use.
That means the features just need not be too complicated and overlapping. I prefer basic features for home-use machine and might not want to add a bunch of nice-to-have ones because I want all family members to use it easily.
Pay attention to all the buttons and control panel interface. Make sure everything is organized in an easy-to-follow manner.
Durability
If you only make 2-3 cups of espresso a day, you will have a durability requirement far different from a coffee shop that sells 20-30 cups a day continuously.
That means it’s up to your needs that you will go for the product with high-quality material, professional-grade construction, and high price.
Each brand has its reputation about its product, so make sure you opt for the right company with the right machine that best fits your requirements.
Size
A coffee maker can also become a decoration if it suits the space you live in. So, besides the design style, I consider a lot about its measurements.
If you have a small kitchen, buying a machine with 2-3 group heads is unnecessary and takes up much space. Some models can’t go under the kitchen counter and make storage difficult.
So, think about the size before buying.
Grinder
Since most semi-automatic espresso machines don’t come with a built-in grinder, you’ll need to consider buying a separate grinder because freshly-ground coffee plays a vital role in deciding the quality of the shot.
Moreover, you should choose burr grinders instead of blade ones.
Brands
- Breville: The brand has provided kitchen products since 1932 and is well-known for its thoughtful design and innovative solution. In terms of espresso machines, Breville pays attention to quality and functionality with simple yet modern design to meet clients’ satisfaction.
- De’Longhi: It’s an international company that consists of brands relating to coffee, cooking, air conditioning, and home-care. The product of De’Longhi often come with an affordable price and appear trendy so it’s widely chosen by customers across the globe.
- Gaggia: This Italian brand has been dominating home espresso for decades and is one of the world’s most loved coffee machine manufacturers. Gaggia things are timeless and perfectly functional.
FAQs
Below is a bunch of questions that you will undoubtedly be interested in when selecting the best Semi-Automatic espresso machines. Let’s find the answer.
My Top Pick
I hope you enjoy reading about 15 best Semi-Automatic espresso machines on the market and finding the list insightful to decide the best product. You should take the time to consider your needs and preferences carefully before buying.
And my go-to product is Breville the Barista Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine for its barista-like extraction, easy to use and durability.
Send me some feedback on the best Semi-Automatic espresso machines. I would like to hear from all of you soon.
