Best Espresso Machine Under $200

Finding a cheap espresso machine that actually brews decent espresso is a challenging task.

After over 15 hours of research, we’ve made a list of the 12 best espresso machines under $200.

In our opinion, the Casabrews CM5418 is the best espresso machine on this list due to its convenient features and price, but in the end, the decision will depend on your personal needs.

Let’s get started.

Our Top Espresso Machines Under $200

1. Casabrews (CM5418) Espresso Machine (Best Overall)
2. Gevi (GECME403L-U) Espresso Machine (Best for Temperature Control)
3. Capresso Ultima Pro (124.01) (Best for Beginners)
4. Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker (Best Budget)
5. Gevi (GECME022-U) Espresso Machine (Best Interface)
6. Nespresso Essenza Mini (Best for Espresso Pods)
7. Wacaco Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker (Best Portable)
8. De’Longhi Stilosa (Best Compact)
9. De’Longhi (ECP3630) Espresso Machine (Best Steam Wand Settings)
10. Flair Espresso Maker (Best Manual)
11. Nespresso Vertuo Plus (Best for Pod Variety)
12. Krups OPIO (XP3208) Espresso Machine (Best Large Water Reservoir)

12 Best Espresso Machines Under $200 Reviewed

We have selected 12 of the best espresso espresso machines under $200 based on their quality and user reviews. Check their pros and cons, as well as their reviews to find out which one best suits your needs.

Casabrews (CM5418) Espresso Machine

Best Overall

• Key Feature: Compact and durable design, 20 bar pump
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots
• Water Reservoir: 34oz
• Material: Stainless steel
• Brand: Casabrews

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The Casabrews CM5418 is a solid and stylish espresso machine that is perfect for coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy authentic Italian-style espresso at home. 

Made of stainless steel, the machine is not only stylish but also durable, ensuring that it lasts for years to come. Its compact design is perfect for small kitchens, making it an excellent choice for those who are short on space.

One of the key features of the Casabrews CM5418 is its 20 bars of pressure Italian pump, which is powerful enough to extract the full flavor and aroma from the coffee beans, resulting in a rich, creamy espresso. 

The machine also comes with a steam wand, which allows users to froth milk to create their favorite espresso-based drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos. The cup warmer on the top of the machine is a useful feature that keeps cups warm and ready to use.

The machine can make single or double espresso shots, and its 34oz removable water tank is easy to refill and clean. It includes a one cup brewing filter, two cup brewing filter, portafilter, tamper with spoon, and instruction manual. 

Moreover, the machine comes with a 1-year warranty, giving users peace of mind.

The only drawback of the Casabrews Espresso Machine is that its steam wand is not very powerful, and some users report that the foam is not of very high quality and consistent. 

We consider this machine to be the best espresso machine under $200.

Pros & Cons

A few pros and cons of the Casabrews CM5418.

Pros

• Stylish and durable stainless steel appearance
• Compact design ideal for small kitchens
• Powerful 20-bar Italian pump
• Steam wand for frothing milk
• Cup warmer on top of the machine
• Comes with a 1-year warranty

Cons

• Its steam wand is not very powerful, resulting in poor and inconsistent foam quality

Reviews

69% of customers give the Casabrews CM5418 5 stars.

Positive Review

“I’ve had this for a few months now and I’ve made probably 50 lattes with this thing. The espresso is made really well with a cream top. The steamer is decent. For the price this thing is great. I don’t have any complaints. It is loud when it makes the shot and it takes some time to get ready for the steamer but it’s all reasonable. I use good beans so I like these lattes much better than most coffee places.

The machine is easy to clean. The only drawback is that it only takes small cups since there isn’t a lot of space under the spout.”

You can read more reviews of the Casabrews CM5418 on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Got back from living in Italy for 5 years and needed an espresso machine. Couldn’t pull the trigger on the $1000+ machines out there, so I went to this to bridge me for a while. Machine heats quickly but the group head does not heat up much at all, not even after running through some hot water – that is the biggest negative. It does make a good espresso, but not as good as if the group head were able to heat up more. Boiler type is the least expensive type. Real good clearance on the pour such that you can put a mug underneath instead of a demitasse. Pump motor is super strong. Frother seems to work well, however I never use it. Does not blow steam continuously – bit by bit instead which is not optimal. Overall I would recommend.”

You can read more reviews of the Casabrews CM5418 on Amazon.

Gevi (GECME403L-U) Espresso Machine

Best for Temperature Control

• Key Feature: Visual thermometer
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots (Manual)
• Water Reservoir: 50oz
• Material: Stainless steel, and plastic
• Brand: Gevi

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The Gevi GECME403L-U espresso machine has a few professional-grade features that make it easy to brew delicious espresso right from the comfort of your own home. 

This espresso machine is equipped with a powerful 15-bar professional Italian pump that ensures a rich and flavorful espresso.

One of the standout features of this machine is its ability to brew two shots of espresso simultaneously, thanks to its double-shot funnel. Perfect for when you’re entertaining guests or in a hurry.

The professional frothing wand is another great feature, which can rotate 360 degrees and has a knob that allows you to control the strength of the froth. Both features make the experience of frothing milk very simple and convenient.

One of the most important features of this Gevi espresso machine is its visual thermometer. 

This visual thermometer allows you to have more control over the extraction process.

It also has two separate thermostats, one for brewing espresso and the other for milk frothing. This only feature will increase the consistency of every shot and milk frothing.

Made of high-density stainless steel, the Gevi espresso machine is durable and built to last. It also has a heated cup holder at the top, which is perfect for keeping your cups warm and ready to go.

In addition, the machine comes with a portafilter, scoop and tamper, and a user manual. It also offers a 12-month warranty and lifetime tech support. The company really cares about the satisfaction of their customers.

Keep in mind that the Gevi GECME403L-U is manual, so it is ideal for those who like to control the amount of espresso in every shot. 

This machine only has a couple of downsides, first, the reservoir is made of thin plastic, and the machine is pretty loud.

It is ideal for those who want to check visually the temperature during the extraction process.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Gevi GECME403L-U.

Pros

• Visual thermometer allows for precise temperature control
• Durable, high-density stainless steel construction

Cons

• Its reservoir is made of thin plastic and can break down easily
• Some users may find the machine to be noisy during operation

Reviews

64% of customers give the Gevi GECME403L-U 5 stars.

Positive Review

“Bought this to replace a pod style maker that broke. I wanted something that could brew enough to fill my 24 oz coffee tumbler, while being quick and small. This thing delivered on all fronts. It has a basket filter, no paper filter required, that is super easy to clean. It takes about 5-7 min to finish brewing and gets nice and super hot so when I add cream it’s still hot. The only thing I’ve noticed is that it doesn’t auto shut off, so make sure you flip the switch when done.”

You can read more reviews of the Gevi GECME403L-U on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Only complaint is the grinder. When using a dark roast espresso bean (they are slightly oily) it will clog and you have to take the entire thing apart to clear it out and clean it. That can be a real hassle when you’re trying to brew espresso before walking out the door to head to work.”

You can read more reviews of the Gevi GECME403L-U on Amazon.

Capresso Ultima Pro (124.01)

Best for Beginners

• Key Feature: Self tamping portafilter
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots
• Water Reservoir: 34oz
• Material: Plastic, and stainless steel
• Brand: Capresso

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The Capresso Ultima Pro is a convenient and easy to use machine with a set of unique and convenient features such as self-tamping.

The 15 bar pump stainless-steel lined thermoblock ensures that water is heated quickly and efficiently for brewing espresso.

It comes with a 34oz removable water tank, and it can brew single and double espresso shots. Also, it can even brew two shots at the same time. This makes it ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkers or for those who enjoy entertaining guests.

One of the major advantages of this machine is that you can actually program the single and double shot buttons to your preference for extra personalization.

The machine has a cup warming tray on the top, which ensures that your cups are ready when it’s time to drink coffee.

Additionally, the Ultima Pro also has a milk frother with a control knob, which allows you to adjust the steam pressure to your liking.

One of the most impressive features of the Capresso Ultima Pro is its self-tamping portafilter, which automatically tamps the grounds, so you can save time and money on extra accessories.

However, the biggest drawback of the Ultima Pro according to some users is that the machine is quite messy, it leaves water residues all over the palace after preparing coffee.

Overall, we consider this to be the best machine for beginners.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Capresso Ultima Pro.

Pros

• Self-tamping portafilter for consistent results with minimal effort
• Programmable brew sizes

Cons

• The machine leaves water residues all over the place after brewing coffee

Reviews

57% of customers give the Capresso Ultima Pro 5 stars.

Positive Review

“My partner is a barista, and we wanted a qaulity machine to make espressos at home as going out to coffee shops everyday adds up. We looked for a day for a good machine under 200 but great ratings. This was the one we settled on.

So far it’s been lovely. Pours a beautiful, good heart, the warmer on top of the machine is a great feature, the steamer is nice, cleaning is easy.

Its worth the money and more. It doesn’t come with a metal pourer or glasses for the shots, but other than that. Good machine easy to use and the shots are great.”

You can read more reviews of the Capresso Ultima Pro on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Messy. No matter how careful I am, there’s just a lot of water to clean up after, both on the machine and on the table around it. easy to wipe up, but a little annoying. Frother. The steam wand has a frother attachment. The steam wand works great, but if you put the frother on, the milk gets frothed to the point of overflowing the pitcher before it ever gets warm. Who wants cold froth? I find that I have to steam the milk warm, turn the steamer off, add the frother attachment carefully (the wand is hot!), wait for the steamer to warm up again and then froth the steamed milk. Not a deal breaker, but it adds a minute or two to the preparation process.”

You can read more reviews of the Capresso Ultima Pro on Amazon.

Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker

Best Budget

• Key Feature: Lot of removable parts for easy cleanup
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots (Manual)
• Water Reservoir: 50oz
• Material: Plastic
• Brand: Hamilton Beach

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The Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker comes with a 15 bar pump ensuring that the coffee brewed is delicious and full of aroma. This is also the best budget espresso machine under $200 due to its low price.

This machine offers the flexibility to use either ground coffee or coffee pods, so you can choose the method that works best for you.

Also, it is capable of brewing both single and double espresso shots, and can even brew two shots simultaneously. 

The milk frother allows you to create creamy and delicious frothed milk to add to your cappuccinos or lattes. The pressure adjustment knob lets you control the pressure to achieve your desired texture.

The Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker comes with a removable 50oz water reservoir, which is large enough to make multiple cups of coffee without needing to refill. 

Additionally, the drip tray, cup rest, frothing nozzle, filter holder, brew head, and water reservoir are all removable, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Keep in mind that this model is manual, so you will have to stop the extraction manually.

While the Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker have many advantages, it can be a little unreliable at times, and the machine tends to be quite loud.

Again, this machine is ideal looking for a budget espresso machine.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker.

Pros

• 50oz removable water reservoir for convenience
• Removable parts for easy cleaning
• Very affordable

Cons

• Can be unreliable
• Can be loud during operation

Reviews

61% of customers give the Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker 5 stars.

Positive Review

“I’m a broke college student so I can’t afford any high end espresso machines, I used to work at a coffee shop a few years ago so I have experience making all sorts of espresso drinks. The machine I had before was a steam powered machine that was decent at making espresso but nothing like this. This machine is able to produce a top quality crema with a high quality shot of espresso, Granted it isn’t perfect and the shots are slightly watery but that is me nick picking the smallest detail, I would rate this machine a 9/10 of how cheap it is, If you are considering something higher end I would suggest trying this out first.”

You can read more reviews of the Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Noisy and you have to hold your mug(s) in place or else they’ll vibrate out of the way of the stream of coffee!”

You can read more reviews of the Hamilton Beach Espresso and Cappuccino Maker on Amazon.

Gevi (GECME022-U) Espresso Machine

Best Interface

• Key Feature: Automatic and manual extraction
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, double shots, and manual
• Water Reservoir: 40oz
• Material: Plastic
• Brand: Gevi

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The Gevi (GECME022-U) espresso machine is a versatile and powerful coffee-making device that can quickly brew fragrant espresso shots with rich crema. 

This machine features a 20 bar high-pressure pump that ensures optimal extraction and a delicious taste in every cup. 

With its advanced Thermoblock heating technology, the Gevi GECME022-U can quickly heat up and extract coffee in 25-45 seconds, making it ideal for busy coffee lovers. Additionally, it comes with a large 40oz water reservoir.

The Gevi GECME022-U also offers three different brew sizes: manual for controlling the amount of coffee, single shot (30ml), and double shot (60ml). It can even brew two shots at the same time, which is a great feature for those who want to save time.

Additionally, the machine comes with a powerful steam wand made of stainless steel that rotates 360 degrees and can reach 212 °F for creamy froth. It also has a cup warmer on top to keep your cups warm.

One of the best things about the Gevi GECME022-U is its simple controls, making it incredibly easy to use. It literally has just 3 buttons.

However, the steam wand is pretty short and may be uncomfortable to use for some users. 

This machine is ideal for those who like versatility since it allows you to select between manual or automatic extraction.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Gevi GECME022 espresso machine.

Pros

• Allows you to select between manual or automatic extraction
• 20 bar high-pressure pump for more fragrant coffee and rich crema
• Advanced Thermoblock heating technology for fast extraction in 25-45 seconds

Cons

• The steam wand is short and may be uncomfortable to use for some users

Reviews

67% of customers give the Gevi GECME022 espresso machine 5 stars.

Positive Review

“This product is very easy to use and I love it! It grounds my coffee fast and it’s not super loud.”

You can read more reviews of the Gevi GECME022 espresso machine on Amazon.

Critical Review

“This does the job but not great. The steam wand is short and doesn’t work with standard accessories. Most cups wont fit under the drip. The espresso tastes good and it’s a nice simple machine for beginners.”

You can read more reviews of the Gevi GECME022 espresso machine on Amazon.

Nespresso Essenza Mini

Best for Espresso Pods

• Key Feature: Highly convenient, uses coffee pods
• Brew Sizes: Espresso, Lungo, and custom
• Water Reservoir: 20.3oz
• Material: Plastic
• Brand: Nespresso

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The Nespresso Essenza Mini is one of the best espresso machines under $200 for brewing coffee with pods.

It is a compact and easy-to-use pod espresso machine. With a weight of only 5.1lbs and a compact design, this machine is easy to store and transport.

The Essenza Mini features only two buttons, making it extremely easy to use. It offers two programmable brew sizes, espresso, and lungo. These brew sizes can be customized to your liking later. 

With a high pressure 19 bar pump, this machine can extract really good cups of coffee with great crema.

Additionally, the automatic energy-saving function switches the machine off after 9 minutes of inactivity, helping you save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

The Essenza Mini has a water tank with a capacity of 20.3oz and uses Nespresso Original Line pods, which provide a wide variety of flavors to choose from. 

Although the pods can be pretty expensive, they offer a convenient and hassle-free experience. 

Overall, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is an ideal choice for those who want to brew espresso at home without any hassle.

Its compact design, and ease of use, also make it ideal for travelers.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Nespresso Essenza Mini.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design
• Extremely easy to use with only two buttons
• Programmable brew sizes with high-pressure pump for fast extraction
• Automatic energy-saving function
• Wide variety of flavors with Nespresso Original Line pods
• Produces delicious coffee with great crema

Cons

• Small water reservoir
• Pods can be expensive
• Limited control over the brewing process

Reviews

84% of customers give the Nespresso Essenza Mini 5 stars.

Positive Review

“If you’re looking for a quick and easy espresso or lungo this machine is perfect. I have a small kitchen with limited counter space and this small machine takes up very little room. The espresso is quick, hot and delicious.”

You can read more reviews of the Nespresso Essenza Mini on Amazon.

Critical Review

“The coffee taste good. It s very loud trying to make a cup of coffee before kids at cup. It wakes up everybody. The pods are expensive”

You can read more reviews of the Nespresso Essenza Mini on Amazon.

Wacaco Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker

Best Portable

• Key Feature: Extremely compact. Weighs only 0.77lbs (350gr)
• Brew Sizes: Single, and double shots
• Water Reservoir: 80ml
• Material: Stainless steel, and plastic
• Brand: Wacaco

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Weighing only 0.77lb (35gr), this compact machine is the best espresso machine under $200 to take on a trip, camping or to the office.

One of the most impressive features of the Picopresso is its powerful 18 bars of pressure, which ensures that every shot of espresso has a strong aroma and rich flavor.

It can even brew double espresso, making it a versatile option for those who like an extra boost for the day.

Additionally, this portable espresso maker is 100% BPA-free, ensuring that your coffee is safe to drink.

The sturdy build quality of the Picopresso is another standout feature. It is built to last and can withstand the rigors of travel and daily use. 

However, the only downside to the Picopresso is its pump mechanism, which can be difficult to use for some people.

Overall, the Wacaco Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker is an excellent option for coffee lovers who want to enjoy their favorite beverage anytime, anywhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Wacaco Picopresso.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• 18 bars of pressure
• Can brew double espresso
• Durable and BPA-free materials

Cons

• Uncomfortable pump mechanism
• Not hands-free or automatic
• Limited capacity for larger groups

Reviews

78% of customers give the Wacaco Picopresso 5 stars.

Positive Review

“This is an excellent mini espresso machine. It takes so little room; yet, it makes very good coffee. I even enjoy the completely manual espresso making process that takes 5 minutes. This has become my morning ritual. The build quality is very good with high-end materials. I can feel the smoothness and the precision of the pump.. Overall, I give this product a 95/100. I will change it to 100/100 if the next edition is less hot to hold when pumping coffee.”

You can read more reviews of the Wacaco Picopresso on Amazon.

Critical Review

“The device is very well made. Compact and with good packaging. It does not produce the crema as shown on images. The flavor of the coffee is intense which is good. I’d use it but would have been nice to match 100% the advertising.”

You can read more reviews of the Wacaco Picopresso on Amazon.

De’Longhi Stilosa

Best Compact

• Key Feature: Durable stainless steel boiler
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots (Manual)
• Water Reservoir: 34oz
• Material: Plastic, and stainless steel
• Brand: De’Longhi

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Its contemporary and compact design makes it the perfect addition to any modern kitchen countertop without taking up too much space. 

The stainless steel boiler is engineered to last long and work for years with consistent performance. It also comes with a 15-bar pump.

The manual milk frother is also a great feature of the De’Longhi Stilosa, allowing you to texture your milk with ease to create an authentic cappuccino, latte, or flat white. 

The two-level cup holder is another great feature, allowing you to use a variety of cup sizes and have as much or as little espresso as you like.

One downside of the De’Longhi Stilosa is that its steam wand has a limited range of motion, and can be difficult to use.

This machine is best for those who want a compact espresso maker.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the De’Longhi Stilosa.

Pros

• Stainless steel boiler with robust construction for durability
• Compact design

Cons

• Drip tray may not accommodate taller mugs
• Limited range of motion of the steam wand

Reviews

71% of customers give the De’Longhi Stilosa 5 stars.

Positive Review

“I worked as a barista at a 4 Michelin Star restaraunt for a summer and this machine works better than the restaraunt machine for me. Way better than any coffee shop coffee. I use quality organic bulk beans and grind only one spoon at a time with an inexpensive electric grinder. Fantastic result, unprecedentedly good”

You can read more reviews of the De’Longhi Stilosa on Amazon.

Critical Review

“It works well. Gives me a nice cappuccino without the expensive coffee shop cost. I had a super basic Krups many years ago, which I loved for its simplicity, and have never been able to find a replacement. This unit is next level up from my former machine, and I like that it allows me to be the barista and make a wonderful drink, rather using than a push-the-button, no skill involved mega dollar unit. My only gripe is that the frothing wand is not in an easy to use place. It requires extra maneuvering because it sits so close to the body of the machine, even when extended to it’s limit.”

You can read more reviews of the De’Longhi Stilosa on Amazon.

De’Longhi (ECP3630) Espresso Machine

Best Steam Wand Settings

• Key Feature: Steam wand with predefined settings for cappuccino or hot milk
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots (Manual)
• Water Reservoir: 37oz
• Material: Plastic, and stainless steel
• Brand: De’Longhi

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Comes with a steam wand, and a control knob for creating textured drinks such as cappuccinos or lattes. Selecting ‘cappuccino’ or ‘hot milk’ adjusts the frother to your desired level of foam easily.

One of the main benefits is the 15-bar professional pressure, which delivers consistently high-quality results.

The three-in-one filter holder (for single shots, double shots, and  ESE pods) included with the unit makes it versatile for different preferences.

Another advantage is the removable tray, which can accommodate taller mugs. The compact design and stainless steel finish make it a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop.

The machine also comes with a removable 37oz water reservoir for convenient refills.

On the downside, the steam wand is quite short, and the portafilter requires some strength to put on straight. 

Despite these minor issues, the De’Longhi ECP3630 is an excellent machine if you want better control over the steam wand settings.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the De’Longhi ECP3630.

Pros

• Can fit tall mugs
• Steam wand with adjustable settings
• 3-in-1 portafilter (single shots, double shots, and ESE pods)

Cons

• The steam wand is very short and uncomfortable to use
• The portafilter requires a lot of strength to put on straight

Reviews

66% of customers give the De’Longhi ECP3630 5 stars.

Positive Review

“With a selection of several types of coffee making equipment, I was missing an espresso machine. I had size limitations and didn’t want to spend a fortune but wanted quality. I was afraid that might be a tall order. After doing some research, I decided to give this little machine a try. I found a gently used one for $85 and couldn’t be happier with my purchase. As with any process, there is a bit of a learning curve but nothing that can’t be overcome with a little practice.”

You can read more reviews of the De’Longhi ECP3630 on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Portafilter is nigh on impossible to move to the center (other reviewers have also noted this) – I have to use all my strength to move it even 45 degrees (I nearly returned it for this flaw). Filters are hard to swap, it’s easy to injury yourself trying. I don’t bother now that I realize the double espresso filter is required to make even one. Also, it’s mostly plastic and I wonder about its durability. While cleaning after every use is a little bit of a nuisance, that’s true for any model.“

You can read more reviews of the De’Longhi ECP3630 on Amazon.

Flair Espresso Maker

Best Manual

• Key Feature: Comes with a custom pressure gauge and a travel case
• Brew Sizes: Single shots
• Water Reservoir: 60ml
• Material: Cast aluminum and stainless steel
• Brand: Flair

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The Flair features the only detachable brewing head on the market, which makes cleaning fast and easy. The Flair also comes with a custom-fitted travel case to ensure safe transport.

The Flair is made with quality materials like stainless steel and aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity. 

The espresso produced by the Flair is consistently rich and delicious, with a shot volume of roughly 45ml, which is kind of in the middle of a single and double shot.

However, the Flair is not ideal for those who want a quick and easy espresso experience since it requires a lot of manual effort and takes several steps to brew a single shot.

Overall, the Flair Espresso Maker is one of the best espresso machines under $200. It is perfect for those who relish the process of making espresso by hand and desire genuine high-quality espresso shots.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Flair Espresso Maker.

Pros

• Brews great espresso shots consistently
• Made with durable materials
• Comes with a custom pressure gauge that provides immediate visual feedback
• Comes with a travel case

Cons

• Takes a lot of effort to brew a single shot
• The learning curve is high

Reviews

74% of customers give the Flair Espresso Maker 5 stars.

Positive Review

“Coming up on 4 years later, this little guy is such a workhorse. I’ve pulled two or three amazingly tasty shots a day ever since I got this for Christmas 2018. Take care not to pack the grounds too hard or else you’ll never pull the shot through. Experience and trial/error and you’ll get it. Pro tip: get yourself a Lodge Deluxe Hot Handle Holder, 10 bucks for this thick red silicone handle. The Flair and the silicone handle pair together really well; it fits nice and snug. With that cheap modification, pulling the lever down is super easy. Amazing espresso maker, well done Flair!”

You can read more reviews of the Flair Espresso Maker on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Espresso takes delicious but it’s sooooo much work! Takes 45 minutes and 10 steps to make 3 shots for my family. I recommended the ROK espresso machine , much easier and faster!”

You can read more reviews of the Flair Espresso Maker on Amazon.

Nespresso Vertuo Plus

Best for Pod Variety

• Key Feature: Automatic machine head open/close function
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, double shots, 5oz cup, and 8oz cup
• Water Reservoir: 40oz
• Material: Plastic
• Brand: Nespresso

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The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is incredibly easy to use, thanks to the one-touch function (it basically only has one button to operate).

This function is combined with a special technology in the Nespresso Vertuo machines that reads the barcode on each capsule, allowing the machine to automatically adjust its settings to match the blend of that specific capsule.

This is essential for brewing really good cups of coffee.

The machine is designed to brew single shots, double shots, 5oz cups, and 8oz cups, making it an ideal option for those who want variety in their coffee experience.

One of the standout features of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is its automatic machine head open/close function, which is really convenient and enjoyable to watch.

Additionally, the machine has a 40oz removable water reservoir that is adjustable to suit your needs. 

Unlike the Essenza Mini, which is more focused on espresso, the Vertuo Plus is designed to offer a more complete coffee experience, which is perfect for those who want to leverage the wide variety of espresso pods offered by Nespresso.

The only downside of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is that the pods are quite expensive compared to traditional coffee beans or grounds.

However, the convenience and the variety of the coffee experience make it worth it for those who enjoy the ease of a pod machine.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.

Pros

• Offers a wide range of coffee pod flavors
• User-friendly with just one button operation
• Automatic machine head open and close function
• Adjustable water reservoir for convenience

Cons

• The cost of Nespresso pods can be high

Reviews

81% of customers give the Nespresso Vertuo Plus 5 stars.

Positive Review

“First of all I would like to say that I have been searching high and low far one of these espresso machines. This one is really great! It’s a little bigger than I wanted but I like that it makes the larger cups of coffee as well as the single and double shots of espresso. Simple and easy to use. Seller was very easy to work with, great communication. Fast shipping and efficient. Thank you so much I highly recommend this espresso machine!”

You can read more reviews of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus on Amazon.

Critical Review

“Adore this! Had a Keurig that finally died and decided to try this. The coffee is 1000% better although quite a bit more expensive. Still cheaper than a coffee shop. The unit heats up quickly and brews a sublime cup of coffee every time. I would personally like it to be hotter, but that is solved by a quick extra 20 seconds in the microwave. Perfect size to fit in the corner on my counter.”

You can read more reviews of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus on Amazon.

Krups OPIO (XP3208) Espresso Machine

Best Large Water Reservoir

• Key Feature: Extra large water reservoir
• Brew Sizes: Single shots, and double shots (Manual)
• Water Reservoir: 50oz
• Material: Aluminum
• Brand: Krups

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The 15-bar pressure pump and advanced aluminum boiler technology enable the machine to heat up quickly and produce a couple of shots of espresso in no time.

The machine comes with a milk frother that allows you to make frothy and creamy milk for your cappuccinos and lattes.

The large 50oz water reservoir ensures that you don’t have to refill it frequently, and the machine comes with a tamper and measuring spoon, making it easy to use.

It has a filter holder for brewing single and double espresso shots, but the machine is manual.

One downside to the Krups Opio is that the way it disperses water from the group head doesn’t allow for an even extraction, which can affect the flavor of the espresso. 

However, it is still a great option for those who want an affordable and quick espresso machine with a large reservoir and don’t mind sacrificing the quality of coffee extraction.

Pros & Cons

Pros and cons of the Krups OPIO XP3208.

Pros

• Large 50oz water reservoir
• Brews quickly
• A tamper and measuring spoon are included with the machine

Cons

• Inconsistent extraction
• Build quality feels cheap

Reviews

48% of customers give the Krups OPIO XP3208 5 stars.

Positive Review

“Lots of crema, but you can control that with the grind and tamping. The machine is totally easy to use, 1: turn it on. 2: wait for light to signal water temp. is ready. 3: Turn knob counter-clockwise and wait while beautiful, frothy espresso comes into your cup! 4: Turn knob back to middle position. 5: turn unit off. So, that’s the whole story except for the wonderful water tank you fill at the sink and then drop in the back of the unit. We love our Krups machine.”

You can read more reviews of the Krups OPIO XP3208 on Amazon.

Critical Review

“This machine does not produce enough pressure to create a good shot. Drinks come out watery and weak, no matter how I grind the bean. Would not recommend. I know my espresso and I love a string shot so maybe I’m just picky.”

You can read more reviews of the Krups OPIO XP3208 on Amazon.

Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Espresso Maker Under $200?

Not sure how to pick an espresso machine under $200? Read this buying guide.

1. Type of Espresso Machine

The first thing you have to decide is the type of espresso machine you want since this will define your daily coffee brewing experience.

Here’s a quick summary of the types of espresso machines we’ve mentioned in this article.

1. Manual

A manual espresso machine is a type of espresso machine that is operated by manually pushing and pulling a lever. 

It allows you to control the pre-infusion period, pressure, and water flow rate, giving you the ability to customize the brewing process for each type of coffee or desired flavor profile. 

However, the quality of the espresso depends largely on your skill level and can be inconsistent from shot to shot. 

This is mostly because manual espresso machines do not have temperature sensors, automated pressure, or other features to ensure consistent water temperature, pressure, and timing during brewing.

An example of a manual espresso machine would be the Flair Espresso Maker.

2. Semi-Automatic

A semi-automatic espresso machine is a type of espresso machine that allows you to brew espresso shots in just a few minutes, without being an expert. 

They require some level of skill and knowledge of how to brew coffee properly, and how the machine works, but not as advanced as if you were using a purely manual espresso machine.

With this type of machine, you will grind and tamp the coffee beans, lock in the portafilter, and select the settings, after which an electrical pump will move water through the brewing chamber at the right pressure, temperature, and time. 

Also, some models may allow manual control over pre-infusion time and water amount. 

An example of a semi-automatic espresso machine would be the Casabrews CM5418 espresso machine.

This is usually the category that encapsulates most of the best espresso machines under $200.

3. Pod Espresso Machine

A pod espresso machine, also known as a capsule espresso machine, is a type of espresso machine that uses pre-packaged pods or capsules containing pre-measured amounts of coffee, which are inserted into the machine. 

When activated, the machine punctures the capsule, and hot water is forced through the coffee, producing a shot of espresso.

Pod espresso machines are designed to be user-friendly, with no need for grinding, tamping or measuring coffee. In short, they were designed to be convenient and easy to use.

Pod espresso machines also come in a variety of sizes and styles, making them a popular choice for home users who have limited space or who want a simple and hassle-free way to make espresso.

However, pod espresso machines have some disadvantages. The pods or capsules can be expensive, and the quality of the coffee is limited to the available options from the manufacturer. 

Depending on the brand, you will have a wider variety of blends and pricing thanks to third-party providers.

Additionally, the pods or capsules can be environmentally unfriendly due to their single-use nature and the materials used in their production.

Keep in mind that there are some brands like Nespresso that have initiatives to recycle used capsules.

A great example of a pod espresso machine is the Nespresso Essenza Mini.

What Type of Espresso Machine Should You Choose?

So, what type of espresso machine should you choose?

That will highly depend on your personal needs.

• Do you want to have full control over the entire extraction process and learn as much as you can in the process?

If the answer is yes, choose a manual espresso machine.

• Do you want to prepare espresso at home by yourself and experience some parts of the espresso preparation process without having to control every step?

If the answer is yes, then choose a semi-automatic espresso machine.

• Do you want to drink espresso coffee at home but do not want to dedicate time and effort to learning about the extraction process and preparing it yourself?

If the answer is yes, then choose a pod espresso machine.

2. Size

Size is an important factor to consider when choosing the best espresso maker under $200 that fits your personal needs. 

The size of the machine will determine how much space it will take up in your kitchen or workspace, as well as how portable it is if you plan to move it around frequently.

Some machines are really portable, and can be carried with you to the office or even camping or hiking, while others are more bulky, and are not very portable.

3. Water Tank Capacity

The water tank capacity determines how much water the machine can hold, which affects how many cups of espresso you can make before needing to refill the tank.

For example, if you plan to use the machine frequently or make espresso for multiple people, a larger water tank may be more suitable.

On the other hand, if you plan to carry your machine with you to the office, or you are just making coffee for yourself, a smaller water tank would be ideal.

4. Grounds or Pods?

Machines that use coffee grounds typically offer more control over the coffee-making process, allowing you to adjust the grind size, amount of coffee used, and tamping pressure to create a customized shot of espresso. 

Using grounds also offers more flexibility in terms of coffee choices, as you can use any type of coffee bean that you prefer.

On the other hand, machines that use pre-packaged pods or capsules offer convenience and ease of use. 

With pods, there is no need to grind the coffee or measure the right amount of coffee for each shot. Simply insert the pod into the machine, and it will brew a shot of espresso automatically. 

This can be particularly useful if you’re in a hurry or don’t have the time or desire to go through the entire coffee-making process.

Pods also offer a wider variety of coffee flavors and styles, as many manufacturers offer different types of pods with different coffee blends, roasts, and flavor profiles.

So, if you value customization and control over your coffee, a machine that uses grounds may be more suitable for you.

If you prioritize convenience and ease of use, a machine that uses pods may be a better choice.

It’s also worth noting that pods tend to be more expensive than coffee grounds, so the cost may be a factor to consider as well.

Final Words: What Is the Best Espresso Machine Under $200?

After careful analysis, we have chosen Casabrews CM5418 to be the best espresso machine under $200.

Our second best option would be the Gevi GECME403L-U.

If you are looking for a pod espresso machine, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is a great option.

Make sure to choose a machine based on your personal needs, so you don’t end up paying extra for features that you won’t use.

If you have a bit more budget, check out our article on the best espresso machines under $300.

FAQs – Best Espresso Machines Under $200

Learn more about how to choose an espresso machine under $200.