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24 Best Coffee Machines in Australia
By Jacob Osborn - Guide Published: , Last Updated:
For all the true caffeine aficionados out there, accept nothing less than one of the best home espresso machines. While generally expensive (if you want a good one, at least), these glorious coffee machines will potentially save you money in the long run. Indeed, those morning trips to the local barista can definitely add up! But how do you choose the best espresso machine in Australia? Considering we’re absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to the bean juice, it’s not easy. Whether it be a Breville coffee machine, filter, manual pour-over, espresso or coffee pod machine, there’s a style and format for every Aussie brew-lord.
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Best Of Coffee Machines
- Best for Extra Features: Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Best for Variety: Delonghi High Pressure 15 bar Espresso Maker
- Best for Beginners: Breville The Infuser Espresso Machine
- Best for a Small Kitchen: Delonghi Dedica Pump Espresso
- Best for Pods: Philips L’OR Barista System Capsule Coffee Machine
How We Chose This List of Coffee Machines
When inspiration strikes and the caffeine levels are low, that’s exactly where the best espresso machines and makers come into play. What looks at first like a lofty investment delivers a return over time and—ideally—an elevated tier of quality control. They usually say it’s all in the beans, but as you soon may discover, it’s also in the delivery system. Culling from coffee machine reviews, personal experience, and firsthand testimony, we compiled this list of the world’s top espresso machines. We only looked at the top-rated and reviewed products via Amazon and eBay, while also taking into account user reviews on official websites. From there, we were able to put our own coffee expertise on the line and curate the top espresso machines on earth.
Best Espresso Machines Australia
From small and cheap to fully automatic, the best home espresso machines and makers that money can buy (in some cases, lots of money) are a mixed bag. Here is a list of the best espresso machines to make the perfect espresso for your daily grind:
Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine, BES870XL | Image: Breville
1. Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine, BES870XL
Best for: Extra Features
It’s one for all and all for one when you pick up a mighty Breville Express, widely considered the best mid-range home espresso machine. Industrial in strength and compact in size, it delivers great-tasting espresso in under a minute. This Breville coffee machine has all the aspects you need to nail the home barista set-up, from the pourer to the milk streamer. Let’s get frothy.
What We Like: All the different features; milk frothing, coffee grinding, heater, etc.
What We Don’t Like: A larger appliance.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: built-in grinder, compact size, quick heat time, includes steaming wand, frothing pitcher, grinder, tamper, bean hopper
De’Longhi High Pressure 15 bar Espresso Maker | Image: De’Longhi
2. De’Longhi High Pressure 15 bar
Best for: Variety
A terrific budget espresso machine, this one allows you to choose between pods or ground coffee by way of its dual functionality. The 15-bar professional pressure assures quality results consistently, while the adjustable controls allow you to make modifications for your personal taste. It is ideal for single or double espresso, cappuccino or latte – the machine brews authentic barista-quality beverages. It’s also brilliantly compact in size.
What We Like: Can use pods of coffee grounds.
What We Don’t Like: Milk frother is more complicated to use.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: dual functionality, swivel jet frother, self-priming operation, two thermostats, stainless steel boiler, 15 bar pump pressure, compact size, affordable price tag
Breville Nespresso Creatista Plus Coffee Machine | Image: Breville
3. Breville Nespresso Creatista Plus
Equal parts versatile and convenient, this top coffee espresso machine delivers various beverage options at the touch of a button. With this home espresso machine, you can brew different single serve coffee and espresso beverage options at the touch of a button depending on your coffee needs. Whether it is a Ristretto (0.5 oz.), Espresso (1.35 oz.), Lungo (5 oz.), the Creatista does a little of everything. It allows you to take a step further and create more complex coffee drinks such as flat whites, cappuccinos, and latte macchiatos. There are settings that allow you to adjust coffee volume, milk temperature and mixture with a fast 3 second heat up time. Plus, it’s a Breville coffee machine, so you can bet it’s value for money.
What We Like: Easy to clean.
What We Don’t Like: No milk frothing option.
Type of machine: fully automatic pod
Key features: makes single servings of either coffee or espresso, LCD display, button-push functionality, versatile controls, integrated milk frother, compact size, affordable price
De’Longhi PrimaDonna Soul | Image: De’Longhi
4. DeLonghi PrimaDonna Soul
DeLonghi’s ultimate home coffee machine, the PrimaDonna Soul does pretty much everything for you. With a $2,799 price tag, the DeLonghi PrimaDonna Soul isn’t cheap, but it does promise high-quality coffee across a range of customisable beverages. Thankfully, we can attest that the big dog performer does deliver the goods. In fact, you can even program your order from the comfort of your bed thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity and the automatic PrimaDonna Soul’s Bean Adapt Technology. Using the large 4.3” TFT touch display, you can cycle through the pre-programmed 21 one-touch recipes, including staples like a cappuccino, flat white, or a latte. Plus, you can also program in five user profiles, offering everyone in the household a unique coffee experience.
What We Like: The touch screen is easy to use.
What We Don’t Like: Milk stored in the milk jug goes bad quickly.
Type of machine: fully automatic
Key features: Wi-Fi connectivity, bean adapt technology, 4.3” TFT touch display, pre-programmed recipes, cold-brew options, user profiles, app-enabled, in-built milk frother
Flair Espresso Maker Manual Press | Image: Flair
5. Flair Espresso Maker Manual Press
Between its portable design, artisanal flourish, and affordable price tag, this is easily the best manual espresso maker for its price range. Use it at home or on camping trips or anywhere between. Also, being a manual coffee machine, it is easy to use and doesn’t take a ton of time. Look ma, no electricity!
What We Like: Really easy to use.
What We Don’t Like: Difficult to clean all the little parts and pieces.
Type of machine: manual
Key features: detachable brewing head, cast aluminium and stainless steel construction, portable design, unique aesthetic
La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine | Image: La Pavoni
6. La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine
For all the hardcore espresso freaks, this manual lever machine represents a step up from the aforementioned Flair in terms of design and price alike. It comes with tamper, screen, screen holder, measuring ladle, and cappuccino attachment, so you can get the whole set-up straight out of the box. Best of all, it makes one or two cups of espresso, while the traditional steam wand allows you to easily create thick, rich foam, and heated milk for lattes and cappuccino. If you can handle the price-tag, you’ll be a true master by the time you’ve learned how to use it.
What We Like: Amazing espresso.
What We Don’t Like: Not an easy to use machine. You will have to work for your coffee.
Type of machine: manual
Key features: all-steel construction under chrome plating, includes tamper, screen, screen holder, measuring ladle, and cappuccino attachment
Breville The Infuser Espresso Machine | Image: Breville
7. Breville The Infuser Espresso Machine
Best for: Beginners
According to most espresso machine reviews, the Breville Infuser is high-performing, great looking, and easy to use. One of the major benefits of this Breville coffee machine is the ability to maximise flavour with the low-pressure pre-infusion, digital PID temperature control. Using this control, you can adjust in 4 ⁰F increments, as evidenced by the pressure gauge that guides you to the right extraction every time.
What We Like: Great for beginners.
What We Don’t Like: The free tamper is cheap and doesn’t last long.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: 15 bar Italian pump, volumetric control preset with manual override, pre-infusion, includes single & dual wall filter baskets, coffee scoop, stainless steel jug, cleaning disc and tablets, cleaning tool, water filter with holder
DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz | Image: DeLonghi
8. DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz
DeLonghi offers a host of top Nespresso machines, including this one. Naturally, the award-winning, affordable, and supremely long-lasting addition is one of the best coffee pod machines on the market. If you don’t want to overthink the whole process, your journey might very well end here.
What We Like: The auto-off feature.
What We Don’t Like: Doesn’t work very well with full-size coffee cups.
Type of machine: fully automatic pod
Key features: makes single servings of either coffee or espresso, 19 bar pump system, quick heat-up times, adjustable cup sizes, compact design, integrated milk frother, energy-saving features
Delonghi Dedica Pump Espresso | Image: DeLonghi
9. Delonghi Dedica Pump Espresso
Best for: a Small Kitchen
Streamlined, sturdy, and wildly popular, this top home espresso machine features a legendary milk frother for your lattes and cappuccinos. With a manual cappuccino system for thicker cappuccinos and lattes, the home espresso machine is super straightforward to set up, meaning you can get straight into latte art just a few minutes after taking it out of the box. One point to mention, however, being a manual coffee machine, it’s not the most convenient home appliance.
What We Like: Slim dimensions make it not take up too much room.
What We Don’t Like: The boiler can overheat.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: quick heat-up times, compact design, signature frothing system, makes single or double shots, premium temperature regulation
DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM22110SB | Image: DeLonghi
10. DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM22110SB
Look beyond the compact veneer to find a built-in professional burr grinder, ensuring maximum freshness and control. Upping the price tag to above $1,000, the Magnifica has a burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings to ensure the beans stay fresh. Best of all, the compact, extractable brew unit is super easy to clean, meaning you won’t spend hours tidying up after every espresso. This is the custom experience you crave.
What We Like: Easy to use and clean.
What We Like: Slow to heat water.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: built-in grinder, seamless rotary controls, manual milk wand, four temperature settings
Gaggia RI8525/01 Carezza De Luxe Espresso Machine | Image: Gaggia
11. Gaggia RI8525/01 Carezza De Luxe Espresso Machine
Gaggia ranks amongst the best names in the game and here we have one of their basic entries, which makes both coffee and espresso. Landing somewhere in the middle in terms of price, this home espresso machine has the ability to make pressurized porta filter brews from both ground Coffee and ESE pods. Better still, the pre-infusion function pre-wets the grounds before brewing for rich, even extraction. Simple.
What We Like: The auto frothing wand.
What We Don’t Like: Small water tank
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: Pannarello frothing wand, dual functionality, automatically powers down, front-loaded water reservoir, pre-infusion feature, rapid heat times
La Marzocco GS3 MP | Image: La Marzocco
12. La Marzocco GS3 MP
If money’s no object, meet your new espresso machine. Pairing commercial-grade quality with artisanal design, it’s used in boutique coffee shops around the world. Choose between pre-built models or custom-create your own. Coming in at an eye-watering $10,000, this coffee maker is only for the true bean lovers. With an integrated pressure gauge in the group head, you can adjust the flow rate to your preference. Like some other professional machines, you can also attach the rotary pump to an external water source.
What We Like: Long lifespan.
What We Don’t Like: Not very beginner friendly.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: timeless hand-crafted design, superior temperature control, plug-and-play utility, dedicated steam boiler
ECM Synchronika Dual Boiler System | Image: ECM
13. ECM Synchronika Dual Boiler System
Between its retro aesthetic and modern functionality, this top home espresso maker brings the best of all worlds. If you plan on making your home espresso machine a permanent fixture, you can switch from the water tank to a fixed water connection. The silver-coloured PID display also shows off the individual adjustment of the temperatures, indicates the coffee brewing time and has an optional display of the brew group cleaning reminder.
What We Like: The low water sensor.
What We Don’t Like: Can be complicated to use.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: subtle PID display, precise control, industrial design, low-noise rotary pump, professional quick-steam and hot-water valves, two ergonomically angled portafilters, allows you to switch between water tank and a fixed water connection
La Marzocco Linea Mini | Image: La Marzocco
14. La Marzocco Linea Mini
High-end brand La Marzocco presents a kitchen-sized version of its commercial classic. With a price tag that pushed $5,000, this home espresso machine is far from cheap, but it is worth it. The professional system features brew paddle activation with programmed pre-infusion to ensure consistency across cups and a stepped wheel temperature adjustment. It even has built-in barista lights.
What We Like: You can pull and steam simultaneously.
What We Don’t Like: The temperature adjustment dial can be confusing.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: brew paddle activation, powerful steam boiler, built-in barista lights, precise temp adjustment, Italian design
The Little Guy Home Barista Kit Espresso System | Image: The Little Guy
15. The Little Guy Home Barista Kit Espresso System
Bolstered by its compact design and innovative brewing system, this award-winning espresso machine hails from Australia (where coffee is life) and does our nation proud. Cute and compact, the home espresso maker is ideal for someone getting into home coffee making for the first time, due to its straightforward design and functionality. Once you’ve mastered this one, you can build your collection with the induction top, which offers touch screen control for brewing espresso and texturing milk, in addition to five heat settings for cooking.
What We Like: An easy to use stovetop espresso maker.
What We Don’t Like: Does not work on standard induction cooktops.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: compact design, stainless steel boiler that uses an external heat source, patent-protected ‘fluid delay valve,’ internal steam pressure system for textured milk
Sunbeam EM4300 Mini Barista Espresso Machine | Image: Sunbeam
16. Sunbeam EM4300 Mini Barista Espresso Machine
Using thermoblock technology, a 15 Bar Italian pump, and a commercial size group head, this mini-barista machine gets the job done quickly and efficiently. While it is a little smaller in overall size, it does feature a full size milk frother, so you don’t need to worry about skimping on the brew. Best of all, the PID Controlled Thermoblock technology calls for a fast heat-up and regulates temperature.
What We Like: Great features and a compact size.
What We Don’t Like: A loud machine.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: compact design, thermoblock technology, commercial-size group head, powerful steam wand
Philips L’OR Barista System Capsule Coffee Machine | Image: Philips
17. Philips L’OR Barista System Capsule Coffee Machine
Best for: Pods
Brew two espressos at once by way of this exclusive double-shot machine, which utilises L’OR pods. That’s but one amongst a number of convenient features. This coffee pod machine brews at high pressure, up to 19 bar, to ensure true espresso quality. It’s also one of the only pod systems that offers milk frothing capabilities, perfect for those cappuccinos and lattes.
What We Like: Easy to use.
What We Don’t Like: There is no espresso pressure or milk temperature gauge.
Type of machine: fully automatic pod
Key features: double-shot system, up to 19 bars of pressure, adjustable volumes, button-push milk frother, customisable drip tray
Kees Van Der Westen Speedster | Image: Kees Van Der Westen
18. Kees Van Der Westen Speedster
When only the most expensive espresso machine will suffice, make way for The Speedster. A fixture in hip coffee shops, it’s also available in this home-friendly version. Under the hood, the heat exchanger in steam boiler pre-heats water flowing to the coffee boiler, decreasing possible temperature fluctuations in the coffee boiler. For serious customisation, there are individual electronic temperature controllers for each boiler, showing the displays in full easy view.
What We Like: It’s speedy.
What We Don’t Like: The machine does not have a shot timer.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: eco-mode, two temperature-controlled boilers, high-grade construction, shot timer
Rocket Espresso Porta Via | Image: Rocket Espresso
19. Rocket Espresso Porta Via
Here we have another luxe entry, which is industrial-grade in aesthetic and performance alike. Despite being super streamlined and compact, the home coffee maker comes with PID pressure control and a water feed reservoir.
What We Like: Great size without losing amazing features.
What We Don’t Like: Small dip tray.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: adjoining carry case, lever-action group head, quick-heating pressure gauge and coffee boiler, industrial-grade design
JURA GIGA 6 | Image: JURA
20. Jura GIGA 6
The ultra-luxe theme continues with this high-end espresso machine. Powered by the latest technology, it makes 28 different beverages and features a sleek high-res display.
What We Like: Easy to set up and use.
What We Don’t Like: Has a sensitive touch screen.
Type of machine: fully automatic
Key features: brews up to two shots at a time, can make up to 28 specialties, two adjustable grinders, powered by AI, easy-to-handle drip tray
Gaggenau 400 Series Coffee Machine | Image: Gaggenau
21. Gaggenau 400 Series Coffee Machine
The home espresso machine of the future has arrived and it comes from Gaggenau. Good for a variety of beverages, it even allows you to switch between various types of beans. Expect to pay for the privilege.
What We Like: Easy to use touch screen.
What We Don’t Like: Takes up a lot of room.
Type of machine: fully automatic
Key features: brews up to two shots at a time, makes a variety of beverages, remembers up to eight orders, allows you to switch between bean types, self-cleaning, self-monitoring, seamless controls, built-in warming drawers, screen display
Superveloce Flat Six | Image: Superveloce
22. Superveloce Flat Six
Inspired by flat-six engines, this home espresso maker is exactly as intricate and robust as you might expect. It’s also quite expensive.
What We Like: Awesome look.
What We Don’t Like: Not easy to use.
Type of machine: fully automatic
Key features: takes grounds or pods, super-durable construction, utterly unique design
Slayer Espresso Single Group | Image: Slayer Espresso
23. Slayer Espresso Single Group
Slay your morning fatigue with this ultra-premium home espresso machine, which blends artisanal design and modern technology to perfection.
What We Like: Good shot control.
What We Don’t Like: No milk frother.
Type of machine: semi-automatic
Key features: commercial-grade components, touchscreen interface, artisanal details, compact design, automatic shot timers, adjustable temps, variable flow rate, dual tanks with power management, pre-heat coil
Nespresso by De’Longhi VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine | Image: Nespresso
24. Nespresso by De’Longhi VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine
Get your daily Nespresso in a convenient and affordable style with this popular machine. It also comes with Nespresso’s Centrifusion technology, which uses barcodes to deliver the best in-cup results including the perfect crema for large Coffee cup sizes. Small and compact, the Nespresso VertuoPlus is one of the best coffee pod machines on the market, and at under $300, it’s fairly affordable.
What We Like: Heats up quickly.
What We Don’t Like: Leaks sometimes.
Type of machine: fully automatic pod
Key features: makes single servings of either coffee or espresso, button-push functionality, easy controls, super affordable price tag
What is True Espresso?
In the eyes of the Italian Espresso National Institute, “certified Italian espresso” must be made according to very exact standards. Rather than inundate you with measurements and other minutiae, allow us to paraphrase: true espresso results when a small amount of piping hot water is squeezed through finely-ground coffee at a minimum pressure of 9 bars.
In turn, you get a condensed and highly caffeinated beverage with a creamy layer along the top. Typically bitter, espresso often takes some getting used to in terms of flavour. On the other hand, you’re always welcome to add cream and sugar. A single shot consists of 1 oz.
Types of Espresso Machines
Folks at home tend to use pump-driven espresso machines (as opposed to steam-driven machines), which break down into the following categories:
- Manual – You pump out the espresso by hand (i.e. manually) and there’s no electricity involved.
- Semi-automatic – You grind the beans and pack them into the filter (with help from a tamper). Push a button and the machine pumps out espresso, stopping either on its own or when you push the button again.
- Fully automatic – The most expensive option, this type of espresso machine does everything on your behalf, meaning it grinds the beans, packs the filter, pumps the espresso, froths the milk, and even discards the waste.
- Pod espresso machine – You probably know the drill: apply a pre-packed pod to the filter, press a button, and let this semi or fully automatic machine take care of the rest. Just know that there’s a member of the Italian Espresso National Institute shaking his head somewhere.
Coffee Makers Key Things to Consider
When you’re browsing coffee makers, here are a few things to consider:
- Price: How expensive the machine is. While price is generally an indicator of quality, it’s important to remember what it is you are using the coffee machine for. Products like the Nespresso Pod machines are perfect for personal use, but if you plan on making hundred of coffees per day, you’re better off going for a professional-grade La Marzocco.
- Pods vs. Automatic vs. Manual: Whether you just pop a pod in the machine or have to pump the espresso yourself.
- Additional features: Do you drink cappuccinos, espresso shots or something else entirely? Having extra features such as a milk frother or cup warmer could be helpful depending on how you have your coffee.
Alternatives to these Coffee Makers
If you’re looking for alternatives or other options from this list of espresso machines, you might want to check out 26 Different Types of Coffee Explained: A Complete Guide or How to Make Cold Brew Coffee That Actually Tastes Good. If you would prefer to have someone make your coffee for you, we have plenty of lists of the best cafes depending on your location:
- 22 Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Perth
- 13 Best Coffee Shops in Melbourne
- 10 Best Specialty Coffee Shops & Cafes in Sydney
General FAQ
What are the best home espresso machines?
For most people, brands such as Breville and Delonghi makes some of the best espresso machines for under $1,000. If money isn't an issue, check out the Kees Van Der Westen Speedster, La Marzocco GS3 MP, Rocket Porta Via, Jura GIGA 6, or Superveloce Flat Six.
Which espresso coffee machine is best?
If you want the most bang for your buck, the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is one of the best you can buy. At the much higher end of the spectrum are ultra-luxe models like the Kees Van Der Westen Speedster, La Marzocco GS3 MP, or Jura GIGA 6.
What is the best espresso machine under $500?
Currently available for US$499.95, Breville's The Infuser Espresso Machine is one of the best you can buy. Next up is the Delonghi DEDICA 15-Bar Pump Espresso Maker, which retails for US$299.95.
Are home espresso machines worth it?
If you enjoy espresso drinks and make constant trips to places like Starbucks, then a home espresso machine is definitely worth the investment.
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WIN! A Smeg Black 50s Retro Espresso Machine Valued at $549!
