Best Espresso Machine Under £200 UK: Must Read Before You Buy!

The writers of this post on the top best espresso machine under £200 in the UK are a group of professionals with extensive expertise of different coffee makers.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly brewed espresso, ready to kick-start your day with a perfect cup of coffee. For many of us, this daily ritual is essential. But let’s be honest; not everyone can afford those high-end, eye-wateringly expensive espresso machines that seem to grace the pages of glossy magazines. In my world, and probably in yours too, we don’t have £20,000 to spare for a coffee machine.

With just £200 in your pocket, you can find a brand-new coffee maker that not only makes great coffee but also offers a solid return on your investment. Especially when you consider that your typical high-street coffee now costs a pretty penny, skipping a daily takeaway coffee or two in favor of a home-brewed cup can save you some serious cash.

In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of affordable best espresso machines available in the UK, sharing our personal unboxing first hand testing insights and experiences.

Affordable espresso machines vary greatly based on preferences and budgets. For some, a £1,000 machine might seem affordable compared to a £3,000 model, while others may consider £300 budget-friendly. Caroline Carter from Change Please explains, “There’s so much to explore in crafting your own coffee. Your beans, tools, and skills will determine if you can replicate a coffee shop experience at home.” She advises researching before investing: think about your budget, available space, the drinks you want to make, and the effort you’re willing to put into brewing and maintaining the machine. These factors ensure the best value and satisfaction.

For me, eight years ago, when I first ventured into the world of home espresso, everything felt expensive because I was on a tight budget. My first espresso machine was the Sage Oracle, although I had it for just a week. However, I had to return to reality after savoring the Oracle’s delights and begin my search for an affordable espresso machine.

Back then, I was far from an espresso expert. I had to learn the ropes and quickly discovered just how vast the price range for espresso machines can be.

In this walkthrough guide, we precisely investigate our unboxing first hand testing experiences with best espresso machines under 200 alongside recent buyer reviews.

Best Espresso Machine Under £200 At A Glance

Lets Take a Look

Espresso Machines	Buyer Satisfaction Ratings	Reason To Buy
DeLonghi EC685M (Recommend)	90%	Reliable, high-performance, compact, adjustable cappuccino.
DeLonghi Stilosa (Must Buy)	90%	Beginner-friendly, simple, easy-to-use, sleek design.
Breville One-Touch (Recommend)	90%	Automated, customizable, minimal effort, touch screen.
De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351BG	90%	Stylish, efficient, compact, reliable performance.
CASABREWS	88%	Portable, quick, powerful pressure, easy-to-use.
Morphy Richards	86%	Budget-friendly, simple, efficient, easy controls.

Exploring The Right Kind of Espresso Machine Under £200

When looking for the best espresso machine under £200, it’s essential to understand the different types and features available to find one that fits your needs. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring these machines, and here’s what I’ve learned from hands-on testing.

Automatic espresso makers are great if you want something convenient. These machines handle brewing and heating for you, though you’ll need to measure and tamp the coffee grounds yourself. What I love about these is the ability to adjust settings like water temperature, brew time, and coffee strength—perfect for customizing your cup just the way you like it.

If you’re more into a hands-on approach, manual espresso machines might be for you. They don’t need electricity, making them portable and eco-friendly. Yes, preheating water takes a bit of effort, but the satisfaction of manually crafting your coffee is worth it.

Bharti Radix, creator of Blooms Yard café wine bars, highlights that bean-to-cup machines are perfect for those who value speed and simplicity, making them a top choice for convenient coffee preparation.

Some also come with features like milk steamer wands, which I find fantastic for making lattes and cappuccinos. If your machine doesn’t have a milk frother, you can always get a separate device.

Other handy features include single and double cup capabilities and compatibility with ESE pods, which make cleanup a breeze. A coffee tamper and dosage spoon are also essential for consistent results. From vintage designs to sleek modern styles, there’s a machine out there for everyone.

Before buying, think about the coffee you want to brew and the features you’ll use most. With so many options under £200, there’s no need to compromise on quality or performance.

Understanding Key Coffee Machine Features and Terms

When I first started exploring espresso machines, the jargon felt overwhelming. Over time, I’ve picked up the basics, and here’s a simple breakdown to help you navigate:

• Portafilter: This is the handle that holds the coffee grounds during brewing. Hot water is pushed through the coffee in the portafilter to extract espresso.
• Filter Basket: Found inside the portafilter, it’s a small stainless steel cup with tiny holes. Depending on your machine, you’ll usually get two filter baskets—one for a single shot and one for a double. Pressurized baskets are great for beginners because they work well with pre-ground coffee, while single-walled baskets give more control but require precise grinding and tamping.
• Tamper: This tool is used to press the coffee grounds evenly into the filter basket. Getting the right pressure takes practice—I found 40 to 45 pounds of pressure works best. If your machine supports ESE pods, you can skip tamping and use pre-packed coffee pods for convenience.
• Extraction: This simply refers to the process of hot water passing through the coffee grounds to produce espresso.
• Crema: It’s the golden foam layer on top of your espresso. A good crema adds flavor and texture, but the quality depends on your coffee, machine, and settings.
• Microfoam: This is soft, velvety milk foam, perfect for lattes or creating latte art. Some machines have built-in frothers, while others use steam wands. I’ve found steam wands give more control, but they take some practice to master.

Knowing these terms made it easier for me to choose the right espresso machine and get the most out of it. I hope they help you too!

Better Taste

When it comes to finding the perfect espresso coffee maker under £200, taste is the key. After all, what’s the point of having a coffee maker if it doesn’t consistently brew delicious coffee? In my experience, the taste of the coffee is the top priority.

You see, not all coffee makers are created equal, and the quality of your machine can directly impact the flavor of your brew. While you don’t always have to break the bank for a high-quality coffee maker, it’s essential to remember that, in general, you get what you pay for. Investing in a machine of higher quality can lead to a noticeably better coffee experience.

What’s also crucial is having a coffee maker that suits your coffee preferences. Some of us enjoy our coffee straight and black, while others prefer creamy lattes or frothy cappuccinos. So, when you’re on the hunt for a coffee maker, consider your own taste preferences. Look for a machine that can cater to your coffee cravings.

Lastly, simplicity matters. A coffee maker should be easy to use. Trust me, a user-friendly machine can significantly enhance your coffee-making experience.

Cleaning

When you have a espresso coffee machine, you’ll want to enjoy it for a long time. To do that, you need to keep it clean. So, it’s crucial to pick a machine that is easy to clean. Nobody wants to spend hours scrubbing and fiddling with intricate parts just to enjoy a cup of coffee.

Another thing to consider is the water you use. Regular tap water can have contaminants that can build up in your machine over time. It’s not something we often think about, but investing in a water filter can be a helpful. It helps keep your machine free from these unwanted deposits and ensures your coffee tastes as good as it should.

Best Espresso Machine Under £200 UK: Tried And Tested Models

Why you can trust Cheap Near Me UK: Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

DeLonghi EC685M Espresso Machine

I purchased the De’Longhi Dedica Style EC685M espresso machine for under £200, and it has been a fantastic addition to my kitchen. Right from unboxing, I was impressed by its sleek and compact design, which fits beautifully on my countertop without taking up too much space.

Setting it up was straightforward, and within minutes I was ready to make my first espresso. The machine works perfectly with both E.S.E. pods and ground coffee, which is great for flexibility. Personally, I prefer using ground coffee for a richer flavor, and the results have been consistently excellent. The espresso comes out with a beautiful crema, matching what you’d expect from a café.

See unboxing picture below.

The milk frother is another highlight. It creates creamy, frothy milk that’s ideal for cappuccinos or flat whites. Adjusting it was easy after watching a quick YouTube video. Cleaning the frother is simple as long as you rinse it immediately after use.

I also appreciate the ability to customize the water temperature. For someone like me who enjoys hot coffee, this feature has been invaluable. It’s easy to tweak the settings to get the coffee just the way I like it.

The build quality feels premium, combining sturdy metal and plastic parts. Even after regular use for months, the machine still looks and performs like new. Cleaning and maintenance are hassle-free, especially with the De’Longhi water filter installed, which reduces the need for frequent descaling.

Overall, this espresso machine delivers outstanding value for its price. If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish espresso machine under £200, I highly recommend the De’Longhi Dedica EC685M. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned coffee enthusiast, it’s an excellent choice that consistently produces café-quality coffee.

DeLonghi Stilosa Espresso Machine

I recently purchased the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260.CR espresso machine, and it has quickly become an essential part of my daily routine. For under £200, this is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to brew high-quality espresso at home without breaking the bank.

The sleek, cream-colored design fits perfectly in my kitchen and adds a touch of elegance without taking up too much space. The machine feels solid and well-built, which reassures me every time I use it. Setting it up was incredibly simple, and I was brewing my first cup in no time.

The 15-bar pressure ensures that each shot of espresso has a rich, full-bodied flavor with a beautiful crema on top. It’s impressive how consistent the coffee quality is, especially considering the affordable price point. The cappuccino system is another highlight, producing perfectly frothed milk for lattes and cappuccinos with ease. I’ve also used ESE pods for added convenience when I’m in a rush, and they work seamlessly with the machine.

I really appreciate the two-level cup tray, which accommodates various cup sizes without any hassle. The 1-liter water tank is perfect for a few cups of coffee, and it’s easy to refill and clean. Another great feature is the automatic switch-off function, giving me peace of mind if I forget to turn the machine off.

While the machine can be a little noisy during brewing, this minor issue doesn’t take away from the exceptional coffee it produces. Overall, the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260.CR has exceeded my expectations. It’s user-friendly, compact, and makes delicious espresso every time. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable espresso machine under £200, I highly recommend giving this one a try.

Breville One-Touch Espresso Machine

After putting the Breville One-Touch espresso machines under £200 to the test, and I’d like to share my experiences with you.

Right out of the box, the setup was straightforward, and I was brewing my first cup in no time. The machine heats up quickly, so there’s no long waiting time, which is a big plus for busy mornings. The one-touch controls make it incredibly easy to use, even for someone new to espresso machines. Whether it’s an espresso, latte, or cappuccino, the machine consistently delivers rich, flavorful coffee that rivals what you’d get at a café.

The milk frother is a standout feature. It’s detachable, making it simple to clean and store, and it creates creamy, hot froth for perfect lattes and cappuccinos. I’ve used both ground coffee and pre-packed options like Costa ground coffee, and the results are always excellent.

The design is compact yet sturdy, fitting neatly on my countertop without taking up too much space. It feels well-made and durable, which gives me confidence it will last a long time with proper care. Cleaning is easy, with most parts being removable and washable, which adds to its convenience.

One thing I particularly like is the flexibility. While the machine has preset coffee options, it also allows you to customize your brew to suit your taste. This level of control is fantastic for experimenting with different coffee styles.

Overall, the Breville One-Touch Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy barista-style coffee at home without spending a fortune. It’s user-friendly, efficient, and delivers consistently great results. I highly recommend it to anyone who values quality coffee and ease of use in their daily routine.

De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351BG Espresso Machine

First, let’s talk about what the De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351BG espresso machines under £200 gets right. This espresso machine boasts a range of features that make it a notable option for coffee lovers. One appreciable feature is the 1.4-liter water tank, which is a step up from some of its competitors in this price range. It means fewer refills and more time enjoying your coffee.

Another positive aspect is the effective controls. While it may lack some of the varied settings found in the EC685, it’s user-friendly and straightforward. If you’re looking for a no-fuss espresso experience, this machine delivers.

One noteworthy difference from the EC685 is that the Scultura uses a brew boiler instead of a thermoblock as tested. This might not mean much to everyone, but it’s a step up in terms of coffee quality. A brew boiler can provide better temperature stability, which can result in improved espresso extraction.

Additionally, the machine comes with a portafilter handle that has a satisfying bulk to it. This adds a touch of quality to the brewing process and feels sturdy in your hand.

During testing we found one noticeable drawback is that the Scultura lacks some of the features and settings that you’d find in the EC685. It comes with a regular Panarello steam wand, which doesn’t offer the same level of control as the variable Panarello on the EC685. This can make frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos a bit less precise.

In terms of build and design, the Scultura appears and feels a bit cheaper compared to the EC685. While the price of the Scultura is typically lower, it’s worth noting that this difference in quality is noticeable in person. The Scultura is chunkier, approximately 10 cm wider, and seems to lack the same level of finesse as its counterpart.

Another consideration is the price. At the full recommended retail price, the Scultura might feel a tad expensive, similar to my sentiments about the EC685. It’s important to keep an eye out for deals and discounts to ensure you’re getting good value for your money.

CASABREWS

First, let’s highlight the positive aspects of the CASABREWS espresso machines under £200, as seen through my testing experience.

This espresso machine is designed to deliver exceptional coffee with a maximum pressure of 20 bar. I was particularly pleased with this feature because most mainstream brands typically offer machines with a 15-bar limit. The higher pressure capability opens up the possibility of extracting rich and flavorful espresso shots.

One thing I appreciated was the machine’s simplicity. It doesn’t come loaded with unnecessary bells and whistles. Instead, it focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well—brewing espresso. It excels at heating water and pumping it through your coffee grounds, resulting in a satisfying cup of espresso.

See unboxing picture below.

The pump, capable of reaching 20 bars, is more than sufficient for extracting rich espresso, even from finely ground coffee. In my testing, it handled general-purpose ground coffee with ease, and I look forward to seeing how it performs with even finer espresso grounds.

Moving on to the design, it’s relatively lightweight, making it easy to set up and move around as needed. The portafilter locks in securely, and it comes with two inserts—one for single shots and another for double shots. I found the double-shot insert particularly practical, as it held the coffee grounds firmly in place.

The water tank, located at the back of the machine, is easily removable and features a dust flap to keep unwanted particles out. A word of advice: be sure to remove the red plug from the water tank before your first use, as indicated in the manual.

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine also has two buttons for espresso—one for single shots and another for double shots. While the difference between them is the amount of water dispensed, it’s possible to adjust both settings to suit your preference.

Talking about the pressure gauge on the front of the machine. It provides valuable feedback on the pressure during the brewing process, allowing you to experiment with grind sizes and tamping to achieve the perfect extraction.

The machine’s hot water dispenser on the right side is a welcome addition. It provides hot water through a professional-style metal nozzle, offering versatility beyond espresso brewing.

While the CASABREWS Espresso Machine impressed me with its brewing capabilities, it’s worth noting that it takes a bit longer to preheat compared to some other machines in its price range. You’ll need a little patience as it warms up.

Another aspect to consider is that the machine provides almost no control over milk temperature and texture. If you’re a fan of intricate latte art or specific milk froth levels, you might find this limitation frustrating.

Morphy Richards

First and foremost, I have to say that the Morphy Richards Espresso Machine looks fantastic in my kitchen. Its design adds a touch of style without taking up too much space. Aesthetically, it’s a winner.

Another positive aspect is the price point. For what you get, it’s quite affordable. This makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to enjoy espresso at home without breaking the bank.

One of the standout features of this machine, especially for those with limited space, is its compact size. It fits neatly on my home office desk, allowing me to enjoy freshly brewed espresso while working. The smaller footprint was a key selling point for me.

I appreciate that the machine stops automatically when it reaches the desired cup quantity. Whether it’s one cup or two, the Morphy Richards Espresso Machine measures it precisely. This feature ensures consistency in your coffee.

In terms of performance, I found that the machine quickly heats up and brews a cup of espresso in a reasonable amount of time. It’s convenient for those mornings when you need your coffee fix in a hurry.

Now, let’s delve into a few areas where the Morphy Richards Espresso Machine could improve. First, it’s worth noting that I found the price to be a bit higher than expected, especially when compared to previous Morphy Richards espresso machines I’ve owned. However, this could be attributed to the machine’s compact design and features.

One noticeable change from earlier models is the switch from pressurized baskets to different types of baskets that aren’t pressurized. The older machines produced a superb crema, reminiscent of a cappuccino’s thickness, but this new model doesn’t quite match up in that regard. I missed the rich crema.

I haven’t had a chance to use the frothing wand yet, so I can’t provide feedback on that aspect of the machine’s performance.

In my testing, the Morphy Richards Espresso Machine proved to be a stylish and compact option for those looking to enjoy espresso at home. It offers convenience, especially in small spaces, and it’s relatively quick to brew your coffee.

How We Test

At Unboxed, our process for testing espresso machines under £200 is rigorous and thorough, spanning several weeks to months to ensure that we provide our readers with accurate and comprehensive insights.

Our testing begins with the unboxing, where we assess the initial setup, design, and build quality of the espresso machine. We pay close attention to the included accessories, ease of assembly, and the clarity of user manuals. This initial impression sets the stage for our evaluation.

Next, we conduct extensive real-world testing. This involves brewing countless cups of espresso, assessing factors such as brew time, temperature consistency, and coffee quality. We also evaluate any additional features, such as milk frothers or programmable settings, to gauge their effectiveness and ease of use.

Over the course of several weeks to months, we assess the espresso machine’s durability and reliability. We take note of any wear and tear, malfunctions, or issues that may arise with prolonged use, ensuring that our readers are informed about the long-term performance and durability of the product.

Our goal is to provide our audience with honest, practical, and well-informed reviews, helping them make confident decisions when choosing an espresso machine under £200 that suits their needs and preferences.

FAQ: Best Espresso Machine Under £200

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