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If you usually get coffee before work in the morning, an espresso machine can save you time and money. Using an espresso machine gives you more control over your coffee, and can help you explore more coffee options than you might find in a café. There are a lot of different options, though. Learning where to start can be a challenge.

That’s why we’re here to help. We evaluated each of the best espresso machines in Canada in our test lab, before sending them off to our at-home testers. Using feedback and our own test results, we produced a list of great options for you. Our evaluation process focused on areas like machine type, size, features, and special options.

Why Did We Choose These Espresso Machines in Canada?

We chose each of the best espresso machines in Canada for a reason. During our evaluation process, we identified areas where each option stood out. Here’s how we chose each of the espresso machines we recommended to you.

The Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine is the best espresso machine in Canada overall. This semi-automatic option is simple to use and offers a ton of simple features, making it great for beginners and experienced baristas alike.

Nespresso’s Inissia Coffee Machine is the smallest on our list. Even though it doesn’t take up much space, it still produces high-quality espressos shots.

When it comes to luxury, no one beats the super-automatic Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. This option can make five different coffee options, and it allows you to choose your preferred aroma, grind, and more. It does the work for you!

The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine offer a host of helpful features, including an adjustable tray, steaming wand, adjustable flavour controls, and a simple-to-use portafilter.

Finally, the Mr. Coffee Café Barista Premium Espresso/Cappuccino System offers some of the best variety on our list. With this espresso machine, you can make espresso, cappuccino, and lattes, complete with frothed milk.

Best Overall

Breville Cafe Roma Espresso Machine

Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine ESP8XL - BREESP8XL, Brushed Stainless

Features:

It's Great For:

The Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine is a manual espresso maker that makes espresso simple. While other machines have multiple settings and features to contend with, this machine allows you to get to the best part of making espresso: the coffee itself! There are two settings in this machine. First, the espresso setting helps extract the best flavour from your espresso beans. The steam function, on the other hand, helps you texture your milk to perfection. Both settings are simple to select with the control knob on the front of the machine.

This machine features a removable drip tray to help make cleaning simple. It also includes filters for a single or double shot, so you can make your coffee exactly how you like it. The high-powered steam wand is simple to use and adjustable, so you can make your milk simply and without any fuss. Want to keep your coffee warm while you steam your milk? The warming tray helps keep your coffee ready to drink while you prep other parts of your beverage.

The Café Roma features a Thermoblock heating system, which maintains the perfect, accurate temperature for extracting the best espresso. 15 bars of pressure work perfectly with the Advanced Dual Wall Crema system inside the machine. Together, they produce a rich espresso with the fluffiest, most flavourful crema you could ask for. If you appreciate a good amount of crema with your espresso, this is the machine to choose. A full 1,000 watts of power makes this machine effective and quick, so you’ll have your favorite espresso or cappuccino in no time at all.

The water tank is large enough for several shots without the need to refill. You can track the level of the 1.2-liter water tank with the handy viewing window, so you’ll always be aware of how much water you have left. While this machine won’t grind your favourite espresso beans, it will make some of the best coffee possible from your grounds. It’s simple to use and doesn’t get bogged down with unnecessary settings or programs.

The Highlights

The Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine comes with 16-ounce milk steaming jug, a measuring spoon with a built-in coffee tamper, and a cleaning tool to help clean your espresso machine. There are two settings on the control dial, including the espresso setting for use during extracting and a steam setting for steaming milk. The Thermoblock heating system controls water temperature accurately, with 15 bars of pressure for a great espresso brew. Finally, the large 1.2-liter water tank is great for many espresso shots. You can keep track of the water level with the external water viewing window.

  • Includes milk steaming jug, measuring spoon with coffee tamper, and a cleaning tool
  • Two settings, including ‘espresso’ for extracting coffee and ‘steam’ for texturing milk
  • 15 bars of pressure on the Thermoblock heating system controls water temperature accurately
  • Large 1.2-liter water tank with an external water window

From the Test Lab

“This espresso machine makes some of the best crema we’ve found. The machine is simple and makes aromatic shots and great steamed milk!”

Best Small Profile

Nespresso Inissa Coffee Machine

Nespresso Inissia Coffee Machine by De'Longhi - Black

Features:

It's Great For:

Nespresso’s Inissa Coffee Machine makes espresso in two different sizes. You’ll get the standard espresso size, but there is also an option for a larger Lungo size. If you want larger espresso drinks, this can serve you well. Instead of making two shots in your regular machine, you’ll make a single cup for your favourite coffee blends. The folding drip tray helps accommodate cups of different sizes, too. There are options to make your coffee however you want with this machine.

Even though it can make larger espresso cups than some machines, it’s extremely small in comparison. This is the perfect espresso maker to use if you have a smaller kitchen or have less counter space. While larger machines (especially those with steamers and other attachments) can take up a lot of space, this machine fits in the smallest kitchens and makes delicious coffee regardless. It simplifies the process, so you hardly have to do anything to get great results.

For example, this machine doesn’t use grounds. Instead, it comes with several Nespresso capsules, which contain the perfect amount of aromatic grounds for the best coffees. These pre-loaded capsules can be placed in the machine without any mess or preparation. Then, after the espresso is made, the capsules are fully recyclable. Each machine comes with around 10 capsules to get you started. After that, you can order them online to restock your favourite varieties.

There are two programmable buttons, one for each size. Each button is equipped with an automatic flow stop so your cups don’t overflow. After about 9 minutes of inactivity (or 30 minutes with a programming adjustment), the machine will automatically shut off to conserve power. If you forget to turn off the power button before you head out for the day, you won’t have to worry about the machine staying on and warm all day long.

The Highlights

The Nespresso Inissa Coffee Machine is extremely small and lightweight, making it perfect for smaller kitchens and those with less counter space. It’s also energy-efficient because after about 9 minutes of inactivity it will shut itself off. If you forget to use the power button, you don’t have to worry about wasting power. In just 25 seconds, this machine will reach the ideal temperature to extract the perfect espresso. 19 bars of pressure help control temperature accurately. This machine doesn’t use grounds like most others. Instead, it uses Nespresso capsules, which are loaded with the perfect amount of espresso grounds to make aromatic, delicious coffee in two sizes.

  • Extremely small and light, perfect for smaller kitchens
  • Automatically switches off after 9 minutes with no use
  • Reaches ideal temperature in just 25 seconds with 19 bars of pressure
  • Uses handy Nespresso capsules to simplify the process

From the Test Lab

“This machine is extremely simple. If you want to make espresso without all the extra frills, this is the perfect option for you.”

Best Luxury

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo, EP3241/54, Black

Features:

It's Great For:

Luxury espresso makers usually host a ton of useful features, and that’s the case with the Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. This option does everything you could possibly need when it comes to espresso, but it also features additional functionality for multiple different types of coffee. The touch controls feature a ton of different options, including settings for four more coffee varieties. In addition to espresso, this machine can make standard coffee, Americano, Latte Macchiato, and cappuccino. There’s a preset button for each option, as well as multiple other settings to enhance your coffee experience.

You can choose the strength, aroma, and milk for your coffee, as well as the bean quality. The grinder on top of the machine has 12 different grind settings, so you can choose how you want your fresh beans made. After that, the other settings allow you to customize your coffee and milk steaming to create your perfect cup every time.

LatteGo, the milk steaming system included with this machine, is one of the simplest and most effective available on the Canadian market. There are no tubes to clean, so it’s remarkably clean for an internal steaming system. The milk only travels between two different pieces, both of which can be rinsed easily with warm water. It’s simple to keep this part of the machine clean, which can ease your mind about using it. It’s also quick, as steaming milk in the standard way (with a steaming wand) can take time. When you’re in a hurry, this is the machine you want to make your latte.

In addition, the AquaClean filter helps you enjoy more coffee before you have to descale the water tank, too. This filter helps remove impurities and hard minerals from the water inside the tank. This means you won’t have to clean the interior of the tank as often as you might with other machines.

The Highlights

Philips’ 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine makes it simple to create some of the fanciest coffee creations with the push of a button. The LatteGo system produces steamed milk quickly and efficiently, with the silkiest foam possible. It’s simple to clean, too, eliminating most of the issues associated with milk steamers. You can make 5 varieties of coffee, including espresso, standard coffee, Americano, Latte Macchiato, and cappuccino. You can grind fresh beans with up to 12 different adjustment settings, so you’ll always get the freshest brews. The touch display allows you to make many adjustments outside of the preprogrammed settings, allowing you to customize your coffee settings for the perfect brews.

  • LatteGo system produces delicious, steamed milk with an easy-to-clean container
  • Makes 5 different coffees, including espresso, standard coffee, Americano, Latte Macchiato, and cappuccino
  • Grinder with 12 different adjustment steps for the freshest beans
  • Touch display allows for multiple types of adjustments, so you get the perfect coffee every time

From the Test Lab

“This luxury espresso machine does just about everything and gives you control over the entire process. It’s one of the best options we tested for variety.”

Best Features

De'Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Maker

Features:

It's Great For:

De’Longhi’s 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is packed full of useful features. You’ll be making coffee like a professional barista in no time at all! If you’re willing to test out the machine and look at all of the different features available, you’ll have a great time getting the most out of this machine.

The water tank is removable, making it easier to remove and refill. You can see exactly how much water is in it this way, so you don’t have to guess while you’re filling it up at an awkward angle. In addition, the tray on the front of the unit is completely adjustable to fit your cup size. If you want a larger cup, you can remove the tray altogether to fit some of your taller cups.

The manual milk steamer doesn’t require much movement, so it’s much easier for you to learn how to use it. Unlike other machines, some of which may require a large amount of skill and practice, this steamer can be learned quickly. On the other hand, the espresso machine’s portafilter is a 3-in-1 model. This means it can hold a single espresso shot, a double, or a single-serve espresso pod. You can use whatever type of grounds you want to get a great result with this espresso machine.

This machine also excels at making delicious cappuccinos. It’s one of the only makers we’ve seen with a no-waiting system for making multiple cappuccinos at once. It’s great for entertaining, or when you just need a bit more of a boost. The Rapid Cappuccino system helps keep the temperature at optimal levels, so you don’t have to wait before brewing another. Altogether, these features create an espresso machine that is simple to learn and easy to use. The convenience features made it stand out on our list.

The Highlights

The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine’s tray is adjustable to your cup size, so you can create your coffee in most different cups. The Rapid Cappuccino System remains at the perfect brewing temperature, meaning you can brew more than one cup at once without pause. The water tank is simple to remove and refill. Meanwhile, the portafilter is a three-in-one design that can hold one shot, a double shot, or a pod. You can use whatever you like to get your best cup of espresso.

  • Tray adjusts to cup size
  • Rapid Cappuccino System stays at the optimal temperature for brewing multiple cups at once
  • Easy-to-use removable water tank
  • Three-in-one filter holder can hold one shot, two shots, or an espresso pod

From the Test Lab

“This espresso machine had everything we were looking for. It quickly became a staple in our household!”

Best Variety

Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Premium Espresso/Cappuccino System

Mr. Coffee ECMP1000 Café Barista Premium Espresso/Cappuccino System, Silver

Features:

It's Great For:

Mr. Coffee’s Café Barista is one of the most unique machines on our list. The automatic milk frother is a unique addition, as well as the one-touch and customizable controls. When you select the cappuccino or latte options, the machine will automatically froth milk from the reservoir. This isn’t like steaming milk, either – the foam you’ll get here is fluffy and has larger bubbles than standard steamed milk. We appreciated the step away from a more traditional design.

The control panel also sets this machine apart. The one-touch controls can be altered by holding the buttons down. There are selections for two espresso sizes, a custom size, frothing (separate from the other options), lattes, cappuccinos, and even a self-cleaning button. You’ll have access to all of these options with a few simple buttons. Programming your favourite drink can be easy, though.

The portafilter can hold a single or double shot, and it comes with a measuring spoon that doubles as a tamper. The water and milk reservoirs are completely removable. You can store the milk reservoir in your fridge when you aren’t using it! Otherwise, these parts are simple to clean and easy to snap back into place when you want to use them again.

This espresso machine has some unique features that set it apart. If you are a certain type of coffee drinker (or someone who enjoys frothed milk on their drinks), this might be the perfect option for you.

The Highlights

Mr. Coffee’s Café Barista Premium Espresso/Cappuccino System offers a removable water tank and a removable milk reservoir. This allows for simple cleaning and easy storage. The one-touch panel provides up to 8 different options, including single and double shots as well as a custom option. This machine comes with a measuring scoop and tamper for the portafilter. Plus, it automatically froths milk when you select the cappuccino or latte option.

  • Removable water and milk reservoirs for easy storage and cleaning
  • One touch panel provides up to 8 different options to select
  • Includes a measuring scoop and tamper for the portafilter
  • Automatically froths milk on the cappuccino and latte selections

From the Test Lab

“We loved the way this espresso machine handled the automatic milk frothing features. It’s definitely a great choice for lots of foam.”

Why Trust Us?


Over the past several years, we’ve paid attention to different trends in the home space. We look for trends in kitchen appliances, mattresses, lifestyle products, and more. We are now using our experience to help recommend the best products possible. Here, we looked at the best espresso machines in Canada. We combined information from our test lab evaluations with tester feedback to produce our list of the best options.

In our test lab, we evaluated based on the following performance areas.

  • Type of Machine. There are several types of espresso machines, and most are classified based on how much you have to do to produce a great cup of coffee. We’ve included options everyone should be comfortable with, including semi-automatic machines, automatic options, and super-automatic features.
  • Size. The size of the espresso machine matters, especially when you consider the size of your kitchen. Espresso machines can get quite large, especially when they have many additional features. If you want a larger espresso machine and have counter space to hold it, great! If you don’t, we’ve included some options for you as well.
  • Settings. Settings can make all the difference, especially if you’re looking for a more capable espresso machine. A range of settings is important, both simple and more complicated. We tried to include as many options as possible in the machines we recommended to you.
  • Additional Features. Espresso machines can have a lot of other features, including grinders, steamers, and different filtering options. We looked for machines with a wide range of additional features, so you can have as simple or complex a machine as you want. 

Important Considerations about Espresso Machines in Canada

Espresso machines are one of the most variable small kitchen appliances available on the Canadian market. There are so many things that an espresso machine can do, and each machine can have a host of unique and useful features. Some options have steamer wands, for instance. Others use grinders to help get you the freshest beans, and some can create a variety of different coffees.

It’s also worth noting that espresso machines can be difficult to operate. If you are new to espresso, it’s important to choose a simple machine with just a few settings and options. You can always upgrade when you become more familiar with the process, as it’s not at all similar to standard coffee makers.

Before you start shopping for an espresso machine, you should consider how you plan to use it. Consider the features you need, and how often you plan to make espresso or other types of coffee. Do you want foamed milk or steamed milk with your coffee? Do you want to grind your own beans or use pre-packaged grounds instead? Before you can consider the type of espresso machine you need, these are important questions you should answer.

Once you understand more about your needs when it comes to an espresso machine, you can start shopping.

How to Choose an Espresso Machine for Canadians

Once you know what type of espresso machine you need, it can be easier to find the option that works best for you. Espresso machines are not all created equally, so it’s important to keep track to the following features and options as you shop for the best espresso machines in Canada.

Type of Machine

There are a few different types of espresso machines. Most of the options we looked at on our list of the best espresso machines in Canada are pump-driven machines, meaning that you don’t have to manually press the espresso using a lever system. Even within pump-based machines (which are the most common, especially in cafes), there are different options. Mostly, these are centred around what your role should be in the espresso process.

  • Semi-automatic espresso machines feature a machine-regulated water pressure and temperature. You can’t control these features. However, you can control the grinding and tamping process for your grounds, as well as the extraction time required to achieve the perfect cup. These machines don’t stop the flow of the water, either – you’ll have to prevent your cup from overflowing. 
  • Automatic espresso machines work in much the same way as the semi-automatic options. The only real difference is that they automatically stop water from flowing once a certain amount has been dispensed. These machines are invaluable if you want to do other things while your espresso is brewing (such as preparing milk and other parts of your coffee beverage).
  • Super-automatic espresso machines take care of every part of the process for you. These machines include a grinder, which helps them get the perfect amount of grounds for each shot. They self-measure, fill, and tamp the grounds. All you have to do is select the type of coffee you want. 

Size and Aesthetics

Espresso machines bring a certain amount of class to your kitchen. That’s if you choose the right one. Most espresso machines are designed with the barista aesthetic in mind, turning a part of your kitchen into a scene right out of your favourite coffee shop. If that’s important to you, consider how each espresso machine looks. Go for sleek stainless-steel designs. If you have the room, choose a larger, more complicated machine – but only if you’ll use it!

Regardless of how you want your kitchen to look, it’s important to consider the size of your espresso machine. Do you have space for a large, complicated machine? If not, you can choose an option with a smaller footprint. There are smaller options on the Canadian market that have just as many features as the larger machines. The only limit is how much space you have on top of your counters. Avoid overlooking these small details, as they can make a difference in the option you choose.

Programmable Settings

The ability to program your espresso settings is important, especially if you use the machine often. Some options come with pre-programmed settings that allow for certain coffee types and sizes. Others feature programmable buttons that remember your settings and produce the exact coffee you want at any given time.

If you want to explore different options, pre-programmed settings might be best for you. If you want to make your coffee exactly how you like it, look for a coffee maker that offers programmable settings that you can change at will.

Water Tank

The water tank capacity and design can help your espresso machine be a little more convenient for you. A larger water tank means you’ll have to refill it less often. A removable water tank might mean less mess because you won’t have to move the machine and find the perfect angle to fill it without spilling water.

Regardless of the type of water type you chose, you should always look for one that includes a viewing window. You should always know how much water is left in the tank so you can refill it when needed.

Pressure Bars

Most espresso machines measure the pressure they can produce in pressure bars. This refers to the extraction pressure, which is part of the machine that creates espresso (instead of regular coffee). The pressure helps push water through the grounds quicker, creating a more intense, concentrated flavour and aroma.

But what pressure should you be looking for? Most experts say that between 7 and 9 pressure bars are ideal for the perfect espresso. However, most machines are rated for higher pressure bars than this. That’s because the pressure may be reduced as it moves through the machine. A pressure of 15 at the pump can quickly become an 8 by the time it reaches the filter. For this reason, you should choose an espresso machine with at least 15 pressure bars. More expensive machines with more intuitive pumps may be the exception to this rule.

Filters

Most commonly, espresso machines will use a portafilter to hold your grounds. No matter how you get those grounds (whether with the attached grinder or a separate option), you’ll need to understand how portafilters help you control the way your coffee brews.

Some larger commercial portafilters (such as those you’ll find in larger machines) require you to tamp your grounds down before brewing. This means using a tool called a tamp to compress the coffee. Like everything else about the espresso process, getting the right tamp is important.

Your home espresso machine might include a pressurized portafilter. They’ll tamp the grounds for you and build up the correct level of pressure to get great espresso every time. You’ll have less control over the flavour of the espresso this way. However, if you’re just beginning, learning how to adjust the flavour of your espresso via tamping and your portafilter might be a little advanced anyway.

Controls

Controls on your espresso machine should be simple and easy to understand. Touch-screen controls are best, especially when it comes to more expensive, capable espresso machines. However, for simple controls (and one or two options), a knob that allows you to switch between the options works just as well.

Don’t purchase an espresso machine without paying close attention to the controls. Like most small kitchen appliances, the controls can make all the difference when it comes to using the machine. You should choose options with visible, clear markings and switches that are large enough to use (especially if you have larger hands).

Steamer Wands

Do you want steamed milk on top of your latte? If you prefer to have a little foam on top of your coffee drinks, you’ll need an espresso machine with a steamer attachment, known most often as a steaming wand. There are other steaming methods available (and some attachments that froth milk instead if you prefer an airy foam rather than textured milk).

A steamer wand heats rapidly, raising the temperature of your milk and creating a foamy coating of small bubbles. This foam is great for the top of your espresso or other coffee drinks. Using a steamer wand requires a bit of skill, though. You have to hold it at the right angle to get the perfect results. Practice makes perfect, which is why choosing an espresso machine with a steamer wand can be best if you think you’ll use it a lot.

Grinder Attachments

Usually, super-automatic espresso makers come with a coffee grinder. This grinder is an integral part of the machine, as it grinds the beans you choose to the right size to make the perfect espresso. Then, the machine will measure and distribute those grounds to the filter section to prepare for making your espresso.

Sometimes, grinding our own espresso beans can be a challenge. It takes longer than you’d like, it’s loud, and you never know if you’re making enough grounds for the perfect shot. Thankfully, a super-automatic machine will take care of all of this for you. Keep in mind that these machines usually have multiple other special features as well. It’s never just a grinder attachment! For this reason, super-automatic machines are considered more luxurious and usually cost more.

On the positive side, these machines take care of almost everything for you. Add your favourite espresso beans and water, and put a cup on the tray to get the perfect cup every time. It could save you a lot of time and effort.

If you still want the perfect grind but want to avoid an all-in-one machine, consider one of the many great coffee grinders on the Canadian market. There are options here for everyone, regardless of the type of beans you prefer or how fine you need your coffee to be.

Additional Coffee Varieties

Some espresso machines only provide espresso. However, many machines can make different types of coffee. Because of the way the machine is built, it may have the capability to make other types of coffee. Standard options include cappuccinos, Americano, macchiatos, lattes, and more. Some espresso machines can even make standard coffee! If you want to try different types of coffee drinks (or if you already love these coffees and want to make them), look for a coffee maker that includes settings for these drinks. Automatic and super-automatic machines can sometimes include settings to instantly create your favourite coffee beverages in addition o espresso.

There might be different processes for making these coffee varieties. Always make sure to check the recipes and user manual for your espresso machine to learn how to handle different brewing modes and options. With some super-automatic espresso machines, a cappuccino is only a button away!

Special Settings and Options

Some espresso machines offer varying degrees of control over the brewing process. Some machines allow you to choose the quality of your coffee, how textured your milk is, and how much crema is preserved in the process. There are even options for how you want your coffee to smell! Larger machines usually have more customizable options and settings, which allow you to play around with your ideal brew time, taste, and more. If this sounds like something you would enjoy doing, look for an espresso machine with a lot of different control options.

An Automatic or Semi-Automatic espresso machine is the best option for those who want more control over the process. The super-automatic espresso machine will do everything for you, so it’s important to make the distinction. Choosing one of these super-automatic machines can get your espresso made perfectly every time, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you are an espresso aficionado. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Coffee makers generally rely on gravity to steep the coffee grounds, as water slowly filters down through the grounds. An espresso machine, on the other hand, performs the same task in a matter of seconds. It uses a lot of pressure to force the coffee to brew, which can result in a stronger, bitter-tasting coffee drink. They aren’t the same, though some espresso machines can make standard coffee drinks.

Espresso has more caffeine by volume, but you usually get much less espresso in a shot than regular coffee. A single espresso shot won’t have as much caffeine as a cup of coffee because of the serving size difference. Three espresso shots usually equal the amount of caffeine found in a standard cup of coffee.

Do you find yourself at the coffee shop or café often? Do you stop at your favorite drive-thru before work to pick up a perfectly brewed cup of coffee to start your day? If you like lattes, cappuccinos, and other elaborate coffee beverages, it might be worth it to purchase an espresso machine. Over time, owning one can save you a lot of time and money compared to your morning drive-thru commute.