8 Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine in 2024

Do you like brewing your espresso shots on your own? Or want the coffee grind, extraction according to your preference? If yes, we have brought you this list of our top 8 best semi-automatic espresso machines of 2021. Semi-automatic espresso machines are of great use. Even if you are a beginner you won’t be having any problem while brewing a nice espresso shot. These espresso machines can also help you in brewing your favorite cappuccino or latte within a minute. Moreover, they are under budget too. 

Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

DesignEspresso MachineRetailer
Best Pick1. Breville BES870XL Espresso Machine
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Staff Pick2. Mr. Coffee One Touch Maker
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3. Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine
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4. Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Machine
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Budget Pick5. Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso
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6. Breville Nespresso Creatista Single Serve Espresso Machine
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7. Breville Maker Barista Touch Espresso Machine
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8. De'Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine
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1. Breville BES870XL Espresso Machine

Best Pick

Why we love it

  • Features a automatic conical burr grinder with a dial to control grind size 
  • The pressure slowly goes on increasing and extracts all the flavors perfectly
  • Moreover, the manual steam wand lets you froth the milk with a microfoam consistency required for a good milk coffee 

The Breville BES870XL has been one of the top selling semi-automatic espresso machines for years. It includes many outstanding semi-automatic features such as an integrated burr grinder with grind size dial for a freedom to taste different intensities and a powerful steam wand which provides a delicious and microfoam textured milk for brewing milk coffees. 

Additionally, you don’t have to toil hard to clean its mess, it can clean it on its own with the self cleaning functions. Moreover, the digital temperature control makes sure the espresso gets well extracted with balanced flavors and aroma. Anyone can easily brew a cup of espresso or any other coffee recipe within a single touch because of its simple user interface. 

Pros

  • Simple user interface 
  • 30 second heat up time 
  • Digital temperature control 
  • Automatic coffee grinder 

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Takes a lot of space

This semi-automatic espresso machine can be called an all in one espresso machine because it has been featured in many of our articles including best commercial espresso machines of 2021. The durable and long lasting build quality is what makes it more special.

Additionally, the semi-automatic features such as manual steam wand and balanced coffee extraction are perfect at such a good price range. If you have a good budget and are searching for a long lasting espresso machine definitely go for this one. 

2. Mr. Coffee One Touch Maker

Staff Pick

Why we love it

  • Is capable of brewing any type of coffee recipe with its preset functions, you simply have to press one of those 
  • Features an amazing and powerful 19 bar pressure pump for extracting the balanced flavors and aroma
  • Moreover, you can enjoy your favorite milk recipes whenever you want with its inbuilt and detachable milk frother.

Semi automatic espresso machines are easier to use and so is this one with its 3 preset coffee functions. Moreover, this machine also includes an inbuilt milk frother with froth settings and you can also detach and store it into the fridge. You will also get a 19 bar, Italian pressure pump for the best coffee ground extraction. 

Also, it comes with a twin brewing cycle and 3 in 1 filter for brewing 2 espresso shots at once. Moreover, the price is also low so that anyone can afford it easily and enjoy their favorite coffee at home. It is easier to use than many other machines. However, it takes a longer time to heat up but the only problem is overshadowed with all its pros. 

Pros

  • Amazing looks
  • 19 bar pressure pump
  • Preset coffee functions 
  • Easy to use interface

Cons

  • Takes time to heat up 
  • heavy

This Mr Coffee espresso machine will work perfectly for anyone looking for a semi automatic espresso machine at a decent budget. Mainly, it brews amazing espressos for this price with its 19 bar pressure pump. Moreover, the preset functions make it even better and easier to use. However, it is quite loud and takes a long time to heat up, so make sure you consider all the options before choosing the best espresso machine for you. 

3. Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine

Why we love it

  • Known for its highly powerful pressure pump which extracts all the flavors precisely
  • A traditional styled semi-automatic espresso machine with rocker switches for easy usage 
  • Lastly, it is also one of the best prosumer espresso machine for its features such as 58 mm portafilter and commercial steam knob 
See also  5 Best Commercial Espresso Machines 2024

One of the traditional looking  and  best semi-automatic espresso machines which matches the espresso quality of manual espresso makers is this Silvia. It comes with an easy user interface and rocker switches for people who like to keep it simple. Additionally, a nice cup warmer on the top will make sure your espresso shot has the right heat. 

As said earlier it has been made similar to commercial grade espresso machines with features such as 58 mm portafilter which is usually seen in commercial espresso machines. Moreover, a commercial style steam knob makes the perfect milk froth on the top of a cappuccino or latte cup. Lastly, the build quality is also awesome and will last longer  than many espresso machines in this list. 

Pros

  • Easy maintenance
  • Stainless steel build 
  • Long lasting 
  • Easy to use rocker switches 

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Louder while brewing espressos 

Silvia manufactured by Rancilio is used by many small scale coffee makers for its amazing coffee extraction and its semi-automatic features. Moreover, it is one of the best Italian espresso machines available for obvious reasons. However, it doesn’t include a coffee bean grinder like many other machines do but if you have an external one you won’t be having any problem brewing an espresso shot in this one. We would recommend Silvia to anyone with high coffee needs and a good budget. 

4. Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Machine

Why we love it

  • With two boilers, you can brew two cups of coffee simultaneously
  • The commercial steam wand offers frothed milk with microfoam texture
  • It only requires a heat up time of 5 minutes and 30 seconds for the steam wand

Popular amongst coffee lovers and known as one of the best prosumer espresso machines of 2022, the Gaggia classic pro is also one of the best budget semi-automatic espresso machines available. It features easy to use 3 rocker switches with no options for making cappuccino or latte. However, you can make them on your own with its commercial grade steam wand which gives bubbly and frothy milk. 

Also, it is available in six trendy color options to match your kitchen’s or cafe’s color scheme. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about the space it takes because of its small footprint. Lastly, the less heat up time of only 5 minutes makes sure that you don’t have to wait for a longer time. 

Pros

  • Small footprint
  • Makes delicious espressos 
  • Fast heat up time 
  • Powerful pressure pump 

Cons

  • Does Not include bean grinder
  • loud

We would recommend you to get this espresso machine if you are searching for a semi-automatic prosumer espresso machine. You can brew any type of coffee recipe including latte, cappuccino espresso, double espresso easily. Also, the commercial grade steam wand is known for making bubbly and creamier froth. Moreover, it has a compact footprint so it can fit anywhere. Hence, you can trust us with this semi-automatic espresso maker.  

5. Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso

Budget Pick

Why we love it

  • A 3 in 1 semi-automatic machine which can make espresso, cappuccino and latte
  • It comes with an inbuilt automatic milk frother that is capable of making delicious Crema.
  • Moreover, it has 3 trendy color options to select from for your kitchen color scheme 

Mr Coffee is known for manufacturing one of the best semi-automatic espresso machines for people with low budgets. One such model you should definitely get is this cafe barista espresso with a list of amazing semi-automatic features and a large water container capacity of 54 oz ideal for a large family. Also, there are 3 color options available. 

See also  4 Best Manual Espresso Machines in 2024

The semi-automatic features include 3 preset functions for latte, cappuccino and espresso which can be programmed as per your preferences. Also, it features an inbuilt milk frother which can be removed and has dial settings for frothing the milk upto desired consistency. However, as there is a price limit it is lighter in weight and noisy during operation. 

Pros

  • Takes only 2 minutes to heat 
  • Preset functions 
  • Milk frother works perfectly
  • Stylish design

Cons

  • Loud
  • Can’t accommodate larger cups

It is one of the best and cheapest options to go for in the list of best semi-automatic espresso machines and best espresso machines under $500. As said earlier it has all the features any high end espresso machine includes. Moreover, it also includes an inbuilt milk frother for making your favorite cappuccinos at home. Also, Mr Coffee is a trusted brand for years so you can also trust them with a blind eye. Therefore, you can get this one if you want the best budget semi-automatic espresso maker. 

6. Breville Nespresso Creatista Single Serve Espresso Machine

Why we love it

  • It also has 3 different cup sizes which can be programmed as per your preferences 
  • Includes a manual steam wand for making creamier and tastier milk coffees with latte art on the top 
  • Also, the extra large water container capacity of 54 oz is more than enough for a big family

The creatista is one of those machines which stand out for their top features and capabilities. This stylish looking and semi-automatic espresso machine is filled with a lot of features such as an attached manual steam wand, easy to use buttons for setting the cup sizes. Also, it uses coffee capsules which require no tamping or measurement. Check out the best Nespresso compatible capsules. 

The steam wand is what makes it more special because it froths the milk with a great consistency and at a perfect temperature for any milk recipe. Also, you will have the freedom to choose the brand of coffee capsules as the machine is from OriginalLine. Lastly, you can be a self learned barista with this creatista by Breville. 

Pros

  • Manual steam wand 
  • 3 cup sizes 
  • Can use any third party capsules 
  • Fast heat up

Cons

  • Noisy
  • Capsules are expensive

The creatista is the best option for artists who don’t want their machine to interfere more between the brewing process. It lets you create your own espresso shot. Moreover, the manual steam wand lets you froth the milk up to the desired consistency. Therefore, it is also one of the best espresso machines manufactured by Breville. You can get the perfect barista style coffee experience at your home and within minutes.

7. Breville Maker Barista Touch Espresso Machine

Why we love it

  • Features an LED screen with touch screen controls which offers a variety of beverages to choose from
  • Moreover, you can extract the balanced coffee flavors with its powerful 15 bar pressure pump
  • Lastly, you can use whole coffee beans because it comes with an integrated coffee grinder.

Breville is a brand which can never disappoint us when it comes to semi-automatic espresso machines. Similar to the Breville barista express, this barista touch model is an upgrade we can say. It comes with LED touch screen controls which  makes it more attractive and user friendly. Moreover, when it comes to espresso brewing it tops the list here too with its 15 bar pressure pump that extracts the right amount of espresso.

Additionally, the attached steam wand is known to provide a microfoam textured milk within seconds for making milk coffees. Moreover, it requires only 3 seconds to heat up with its thermojet heating system. Lastly, the barista touch also features an integrated coffee finder which offers the right amount of coffee grounds all the time.

Don’t worry much about the quality of this machine as it comes from a trusted brand. Moreover, the build quality is enough to last for a minimum of 10 years. You can easily use it with its super easy touch screen user interface. We would recommend this espresso machine to anyone having high coffee needs or a large family or even a commercial coffee maker. However, you have to maintain it properly and have a large space on your kitchen top. 

8. De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine

Why we love it

  • Three different color options available for a nice and trendy look to match with your lifestyle
  • Includes a sensor with its inbuilt coffee grinder so that you wont run out of beans
  • The milk and coffee temperature can be set differently with its dual heating system 

The runner up for the best semi-automatic espresso machine is the DeLonghi specialista, it comes with a great water container capacity of 4.2 pounds which makes it a great option to be a commercial espresso machine. We have also featured it in our list of best commercial espresso machines of 2021. Moreover, it is also available in 3 trendy color options to choose from. 

This DeLonghi model features an advanced latte system with an attached steam wand which offers a smooth and microfoam milk texture, preferred for making latte art. Additionally, you don’t have to tamp the coffee grounds on your own, simply pull the lever down and the portafilter is ready for extraction. Lastly, DeLonghi offers a warranty of 3 years which is a good and secure deal.

Pros

  • Grinder works perfectly
  • Worth the price
  • Two independent heating systems
  • Inbuilt milk frother

Cons

  • Takes much space 
  • costly
  • We would recommend you this semi-automatic espresso machine if you have a s a sensor with its inbuilt coffee grinder so that you wont run out of beans
  • The milk and coffee temperature can be set differently with its dual heating system 

Specifications good budget or want a prosumer espresso machine. The coffee extraction is up to the mark and unlike other espresso machines it features a hot water spout for brewing authentic espressos. Also, semi-automatic features such as coffee grinder with sensor, dual heating system and manual steam wand are also included. Moreover, good looks and 3 colour options to choose from is a nice deal. Therefore, you can consider this option as it’s once in a lifetime and an excellent investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an espresso machine semi-automatic?

Semi-automatic espresso machines have an electric pump which extracts coffee. Moreover, some of them have preset coffee functions too. On the contrary, manual espresso machines require you to pull the lever to extract the espresso.

What are the features you get in semi-automatic ones which the manual one’s lack?

There are many features which the manual espresso makers lack, such as electric pressure pump, preset coffee functions, easy-to-use interface, milk frother, coffee grinder. However, in terms of brewing espresso no one can beat a manual espresso machine. 

Should I get an automatic or a semi-automatic espresso machine?

It totally depends on your needs. However, semi-automatic espresso machines let you have a little control over the espresso. On the other hand, automatic espresso machines do everything on their own. Therefore, you may not be satisfied with the espresso quality of an automatic espresso machine. Moreover, if you don’t want to do any manual work, get a super-automatic espresso machine. Check out our article on top 8 best super-automatic espresso machines of 2021.

What is the best semi-automatic espresso machine on the market?

We would recommend you to get the Breville Maker Barista Touch Espresso Machine as it is one of the most popular ones amongst commercial coffee makers and it includes all the top end features which can help you in brewing the best espresso at your home. 

Conclusion 

Semi-automatic espresso machines are of great use whenever you are running late for your office. Moreover, their single touch operations let you brew an amazing shot of espresso even when you are feeling dizzy. Moreover, they are easy to clean and maintain too.

Check out how to clean an espresso machine. In this article we have featured the top 8 best semi-automatic espresso machines after testing them for their espresso quality and many other factors. We hope that now you have a clear idea about which semi-automatic espresso machine to get. You can also check out our article on best automatic espresso machines of 2021 for more advanced options. Moreover, check out how to use an espresso machine to get a detailed guide. 


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