The Best Budget Espresso Machine for Home and Small Coffee Shops
Choosing the right espresso machine can transform your coffee experience, whether you're a seasoned barista or a casual coffee enthusiast. Among the market options, the Breville Bambino Plus stands out as a top budget-friendly choice, delivering excellent espresso quality without breaking the bank.
Top Budget Espresso Machines
The Breville Bambino Plus is one of the best budget espresso machines you can get. With a compact footprint and a 15 bar pump, it boasts a built-in milk frother and pre-programmed shot volumes, all for less than $400. Other notable budget models include the DeLonghi Dedica and the Rancilio Silvia, which are excellent for around $300-$500.
My Personal Experience with an Affordable Espresso Machine
Recently, I took a chance on an espresso machine I found on sale at Walmart for $259.99, and I must say, it has been a game-changer. This machine provides a fantastic espresso experience, and the price is incredibly reasonable for its quality. If you're looking for a budget-friendly espresso machine that won't disappoint, this is the one.
Check out the machine on Walmart's official website.
Affordable Espresso Machine: ITOP / Gemilai CRM 3605
The Gemilai CRM 3605 is a rebranded version of the Ferrati Ferro FCM 3605 series and is widely used in small coffee shops and homes across Southeast Asia. It's not just a machine for home use; some small coffee shops use it to brew up to 30 cups a day, ensuring the freshness and quality of the espresso.
Why Choose the Gemilai CRM 3605?
1. Universal Unpressurized Portafilter: The machine includes a 58 mm universal unpressurized portafilter, which is ideal for making authentic espresso at home. Unlike pressurized portafilters that can lead to fake crema and poor taste, the unpressurized portafilter ensures a rich and flavorful espresso experience.
2. Removable 1700 mL Water Tank: The machine is equipped with a 1700 mL visible and removable water tank located at the back. The water is distributed through a metal pipe to the group head, making it easy to maintain and clean. This feature also ensures a consistent temperature for brewing espresso or steaming milk for Cappuccinos or Lattersquo;s.
3. Thermoblock Technology: The thermoblock makes it perfect for daily use, especially in the morning. You can brew a cup of espresso or steam milk in just a minute.
4. Proper Grinder: While the machine is excellent, it's crucial to have a proper grinder for espresso. The grind size directly affects the taste, with a coarse grind leading to sourness and a fine grind resulting in bitterness. Investing in a good grinder is essential for a perfect cup of espresso.
After investing in this machine, I've noticed a significant improvement in my coffee-making skills. This machine is perfect for home use and is priced around $172, including delivery. However, ensure your home has the appropriate wattage to support the machine. A stabilizer with 2000 W in power is recommended if your home electricity consumption is around 3000 W.
My Creations with the Gemilai CRM 3605
I love using the Gemilai CRM 3605 to create delicious cappuccinos and lattes. Here's a link to view my cappuccino and the grinder I use with it.