Bottomless Portafilter That Fits Your Machine
A bottomless portafilter is only useful if it locks into your espresso machine correctly. Check the group size, lug pattern, basket diameter, handle clearance, and compatibility…
Espresso Machines
Help choosing and troubleshooting a home espresso machine without cafe-pro jargon getting in the way.
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Buying a calibrated tamper that fits the basket
A calibrated tamper only helps if its base matches the basket. Here’s how to check diameter, basket shape, depth, and pressure design…
Buying a second portafilter so one can stay dry
A second portafilter can make back-to-back espresso sessions easier, especially when one portafilter is drying. Check your machine’s fit,…
Buying guides
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Best compact espresso machine
The best compact espresso machine is small enough for your counter but still offers the controls and workflow you need. Compare machine…
Best espresso machine for a beginner
The best beginner espresso machine depends on whether you want hands-on control, fast convenience, or the simplest possible cleanup. This…
Best espresso machine for lattes at home
The best espresso machine for lattes at home should make balanced espresso and produce smooth, finely textured milk without adding…
Best machine for mostly straight espresso
If you mostly drink straight espresso, prioritize shot control, temperature consistency, grinder quality, and a simple workflow over…
Best machine for two people who drink milk drinks
For two people who mainly drink lattes or cappuccinos, the best espresso machine is one that can recover quickly, steam milk consistently,…
Best machine if you only make one shot a day
For one espresso a day, the best machine is usually a compact pod model for maximum convenience or a small semi-automatic machine if you…
Troubleshooting
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Single boiler with a steam wait versus dual boiler
A single-boiler espresso machine can make excellent espresso, but you must wait for it to switch from brewing to steaming. A dual boiler…
Capsule machine if you will not grind daily
If you will not grind coffee daily, a capsule espresso machine may be the better choice. Here is how it compares with a grinder-based setup…
Entry semi-auto versus a midrange HX
An entry semi-automatic espresso machine is usually the simpler, lower-cost choice, while a midrange heat-exchanger machine is built for…
Setup & accessories
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Buying a WDT Tool and a Better Tamper
A WDT tool and a properly sized tamper can make espresso puck preparation more consistent. Here is how to choose both without paying for…
Milk pitcher and a thermometer
A suitable milk pitcher and thermometer make milk steaming easier to learn and repeat. Here is what matters when choosing size, material,…
Blind Basket for Backflushing: How to Choose and Use One
A blind basket is the sealed basket used to backflush many espresso machines. Here is how to check compatibility, use detergent correctly,…
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Espresso Machines publishes informational guides for espresso machines. Product options shown in articles come from Amazon catalog search results that pass this site’s relevance filters. A catalog result is not evidence that a product was tested in a lab or used long-term.