Espresso Machine Test 2026

Type: Single-circuit  Boiler capacity: 0.3 l  Heat-up time: 10–20 mins

With this cult machine, you can brew a good espresso after a heat-up time of 10–20 minutes. The machine builds up enough pressure to extract an espresso with a consistent extraction time. Drawback: It is not possible to check how many bar of pressure the espresso machine is using to force the water through, as there is no pressure gauge. The Rancilio Silvia has a large following amongst DIY enthusiasts, as it has a very simple technical design and can be repaired or modified by the user. This means the Silvia offers plenty of scope for future upgrades. Its robust (albeit rather unassuming) build quality also suggests it will be a long-lasting companion. Much like the Quickmill, the Silvia reaches its limits when it comes to milk froth. In comparison, however, the quality is better, and with a bit of practice it is possible to create a fine milk froth.

• Value for money
• Solid build quality and easy to tinker with
• Noise level; the machine was the noisiest in the entire test

Type: Thermoblock  Boiler capacity: 1.9 l  Heat-up time: 3 s

The Sage Bambino Plus is recommended for those new to the world of espresso and for anyone who doesn’t have high expectations of their machine or espresso. It takes a little time to adjust the machine and grinder correctly, as the portafilter’s volume is very small. We were impressed by the automatic milk frothing function, which is easy to use and produces good milk foam, perfect for creating latte art. Our verdict: in terms of value for money, machines such as the Rancilio Silvia or Quickmill Orione perform better. The Sage Bambino Plus offers a good entry point, but after just a short time, the machine leaves you wanting more customisation options.

• Clear instructions and simple operation and cleaning of the machine
• Automatic milk frothing function
• Very short heat-up time
• Lacks high build quality

Type: Single-circuit PID Boiler capacity: 0.3 l Heat-up time: approx. 7 mins

The Profitec GO 2.0 is a compact, single-circuit portafilter machine for beginners who don’t want to compromise on precise adjustment options when it comes to espresso. With its 0.3-litre brass boiler, PID temperature control and adjustable brewing pressure, it already offers many features usually found on more expensive machines. The new OLED display shows, amongst other things, the brewing time, making operation particularly straightforward, whilst its narrow width of just 21 cm means it fits even in smaller kitchens. When it comes to frothing milk, however, the typical limitation of a single-circuit machine becomes apparent. Anyone who mainly prepares cappuccinos and latte macchiatos, or wishes to serve several milk-based drinks in quick succession, must expect a waiting time. For pure espresso enthusiasts, on the other hand, the GO 2.0 is particularly appealing; those who regularly prepare several milk-based drinks will find a dual-circuit or dual-boiler machine more convenient.

• Precise PID temperature control, adjustable brewing pressure and OLED display
• Compact design and high-quality build
• Less convenient when making several milk-based drinks in quick succession
• Vibration pump is relatively loud

Type: Dual-circuit  Boiler capacity: 1.8 l  Heat-up time: 25–30 mins

The Rocket is a dual-circuit machine that delivers on its promises. Every espresso shot we pulled turned out superbly. We found it easy to quickly determine the correct grind size for optimal extraction. The high-quality build speaks for itself; weighing in at 20 kg, once set up, the machine isn’t going to move from its spot in a hurry. Every function has been well thought out and kept to a minimum. There is no PID control, nor any way to regulate the temperature or pressure. The length of the pull is determined manually via the brew lever – simple and precise. We recommend it to anyone looking for a straightforward and durable machine. For coffee enthusiasts who want to experiment with all aspects of espresso preparation, we recommend the ECM, which promises the same espresso quality and greater scope for adjustment, though this comes at the cost of slightly inferior milk foam.

• Value for money
• Intuitive and simple operation
• High-quality and robust construction

Type: Thermoblock  Tank capacity: 1.3 l  Heat-up time: 1–2 mins

The Ascaso Dream PID is a real gem. The machine is very compact, making it a good choice for small coffee kitchens. The LED cup lighting, the portafilter handle and the wooden steam wheel are real eye-catchers. The Ascaso Dream’s aluminium construction makes it very light. However, this proved to be a drawback for us, as we had to hold the machine steady whilst securing the portafilter to prevent it from slipping. The built-in thermoblock is ready for use after just 1–2 minutes. With the Ascaso, extraction time, brewing temperature and pump pressure can be adjusted manually. Another positive feature is the steam wand for frothing milk. It packs a decent punch and can easily froth even large quantities of milk.

• Modern and compact machine design
• Excellent milk frothing results
• Poor stability due to its light weight

Type: Single-circuit  Boiler capacity: 0.75 l  Heat-up time: 20–25 mins

The ECM is sure to set the hearts of pure espresso fans racing. This single-circuit machine impresses with its excellent espresso quality and simple, intuitive operation. Its understated design looks great in any kitchen, and the stainless steel body is beautifully finished. The water temperature and brewing pressure can be easily adjusted for optimal extraction. The machine is compact yet offers enough space for espresso cups and a scale to fit under the portafilter. The ECM performs less well when frothing milk, as it does not build up enough pressure for this, meaning the milk becomes watery unless you let the milk wand run for longer. A minor drawback that can be overcome with practice: care must be taken with the machine’s exterior parts to avoid burning your fingers.

• Intuitive and simple operation
• Many manual features such as PID and brew pressure control
• Classic and robust build quality
• Low steam power and watery milk foam

Type: Dual-boiler, can optionally be used as a single-circuit machine Boiler capacity: 0.4 l coffee boiler / 0.75 l steam boiler Heat-up time: 10–17 mins

The Profitec MOVE is a compact dual-boiler machine which, despite its comparatively small dimensions, offers a comprehensive range of features. The 0.4-litre coffee boiler and the separate 0.75-litre steam boiler allow you to prepare espresso and froth milk simultaneously, whilst both temperatures can be adjusted individually. It also features an OLED display, programmable brew buttons, a timer, adjustable pre-infusion and a quiet vibration pump. Particularly handy: the steam boiler can be switched off if required, meaning the MOVE can also be operated as a single-boiler machine. It thus combines the compact dimensions of a smaller machine with the flexibility of a dual-boiler – only the advertised fast heat-up time proved less convincing in our test.

• Dual-boiler with independent steam and coffee boilers
• Extensive range of features
• Heat-up time in practice significantly longer than advertised

   

Type: Dual thermoblock Water tank: 2 l Heat-up time: 2–3 mins

Our recommendation for anyone who places great importance on the appearance of their machine. The build quality and design of the machine are very high-quality and modern. A particular eye-catcher: the illuminated work surface. The machine is a dual-circuit model and is fitted with two thermoblocks, which promise a very fast heat-up time of 2 minutes. Adjusting the espresso settings was straightforward, and we were able to achieve excellent espresso results. The machine’s portafilter handles are the best we tested. If you enjoy drinking black espresso, this machine is perfect for you. We were also impressed by the milk frothing performance of the newer model (available from late 2022). Unlike its predecessor, the current versions have a significantly larger steam thermoblock and plenty of power. The machine is therefore now also recommended for fans of milk-based drinks.

• Compact design, fits well in small kitchens
• Quick and thorough cleaning process
• High-quality portafilter with wooden handle
• Impressive milk frothing too

Type: Dual-boiler Boiler capacity: 3.5 l steam boiler Heat-up time: approx. 9 mins

The La Marzocco Linea Mini R combines the distinctive design of the Linea series with modern technology and a significantly enhanced workflow. The dual-boiler design ensures high temperature stability whilst allowing for simultaneous espresso brewing and powerful milk frothing. New features include an integrated shot timer, brew-by-weight capability, a revised pre-infusion system and easily adjustable pump pressure control. The La Marzocco app also allows you to control the temperature, pre-infusion and other functions. For the brew-by-weight function, however, you’ll need the compatible La Marzocco Acaia scale, which communicates with the machine via Bluetooth. Nevertheless, the new Linea Mini R offers significantly more control over espresso preparation than its predecessor and, thanks to its iconic design and compact build, stands out as a machine that’s particularly well-suited to domestic settings. Anyone who values intuitive operation above all else is likely to appreciate the combination of paddle controls, the app and the functions that can be automated.

• Dual boiler with PID and excellent temperature stability
• Brew-by-weight option, shot timer and new pre-infusion system
• Powerful, insulated steam wand for working on multiple tasks simultaneously
• High-quality, iconic design with extensive app integration

We love coffee and spend the whole day doing nothing else. Our journey into the world of coffee began in 2010, and we’ve learnt a great deal since then. From cultivation and roasting right through to brewing really good coffee, we’d like to share our knowledge with you. We only recommend products that we’d also recommend to our friends.

Our espresso machine review is aimed at anyone who doesn’t want to miss out on really good espresso at home. This review is designed to help you find an espresso machine that suits your needs – no matter how much you know or how high your expectations are. To this end, we’ve tested a total of 12 machines: single-circuit, dual-circuit, thermoblock and dual-boiler models. We’ve covered them all.

Over several weeks, we put the espresso machines through their paces, as they say in product testing jargon. In the run-up to the test, we assessed which machines are particularly popular with our customers and tested these against new machines and manufacturers on the market, as well as well-known classics.

It was important to us to adopt the users’ perspective and take individual needs into account.

We assessed all the machines for their value for money, the quality of their extraction and milk foam, their build quality and stability, and their adjustment options. We tested the machines with both light and dark espresso roasts to identify any potential weaknesses during the espresso extraction process.

There is no clear winner. After all, not all machines are the same. Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a machine for a quick espresso in the morning, or one capable of making several cups of cappuccino in a row? Do you want good espresso at the touch of a button, or do you want to be able to adjust all the settings yourself? Unfortunately, we can’t answer these questions for you, but with this test we aim to give you an overview of which machine suits you best.