Easiest milk drinks
Breville Bambino Plus
Espresso newcomers who want lattes and cappuccinos with hands-free milk texturing in a small footprint.
Watch out: Needs a separate espresso grinder
Best Espresso Machines Under $500 (2026)
Updated November 12, 2026
We research specs and owner feedback; we don't run hands-on tests. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Under $500 you can get a genuinely good espresso machine, but usually not one with a built-in grinder. Set aside $150 to $200 for a burr grinder that can grind fine enough for espresso, or the machine won't reach its potential.
What you get, and what you give up
At this price expect thermojet, thermoblock or small single-boiler heating, a mix of plastic and metal, and a smaller water tank. You usually can't brew and steam at the same time. What you gain is a compact machine that heats quickly and makes real espresso when it's paired with the right grinder.
Manual control
Breville Bambino
Beginners or small kitchens that already own a good espresso grinder and want fast, affordable shots.
Watch out: No grinder, so a separate espresso-capable grinder adds cost
Manual control
De'Longhi Dedica Deluxe
Small kitchens that need a 6-inch-wide machine for occasional lattes with pre-ground coffee or E.S.E. pods.
Watch out: Ships with pressurized dual-wall baskets only, which limits shot quality
Manual control
CASABREWS CM5418
Budget-minded beginners with little counter space who are happy to learn manual espresso.
Watch out: Ships only with pressurized dual-wall baskets, a flimsy tamper and no milk pitcher
Manual control
De'Longhi Stilosa
First-time buyers who want real pump espresso and milk drinks for the lowest possible outlay.
Watch out: Pressurized crema-disk filters and a light plastic tamper cap espresso quality
Don't forget the grinder
If your machine has no grinder, see our espresso grinder guide. A $200 grinder with a $300 machine usually beats a $500 machine with pre-ground coffee.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get a good espresso machine for under $500?
Yes. Several machines under $500 make true pump espresso and steam milk well. The trade-off is usually no built-in grinder, a smaller water tank and no simultaneous brewing and steaming.
Is it better to spend more on the machine or the grinder?
For espresso, the grinder matters at least as much as the machine. On a fixed budget, many experienced home baristas recommend splitting it roughly evenly.