What to know before you buy an espresso machine or coffee maker How do espresso machines work? A home espresso machine is a smaller version of the espresso machines found in coffee shops.

The best espresso machines for pros or beginners, with and without grinders, for lattes or flat whites. Many models are under $1,000 and some below $200.

We asked coffee experts and barista trainers to tell us the secrets behind the perfect espresso shot, and then tested the machines you can use at home to make them.