The easy first espresso machine
Breville Bambino Plus
Heats up fast, steams milk on its own and is small enough for any counter. The gift that works for someone who has never pulled a shot.
Holiday gift guide
Gifts for coffee lovers: espresso machines for every kind of person
The right machine depends on who is opening it. These six come from the machines we have reviewed, matched to the person you are buying for. We do not quote prices: Amazon changes them by the hour, so check the price on Amazon before you buy.
For someone who wants to learn
Breville Barista Express Impress
A grinder is built in and the machine helps with tamping, so a beginner gets decent espresso in the first week instead of a frustrating one.
For the latte drinker who wants no fuss
Philips 3200 Series LatteGo
Press one button for a milk drink. Nothing to grind, dose or tamp, so it suits someone who just wants good coffee at home.
The budget gift
De'Longhi Stilosa EC260
The cheapest machine we track. Real espresso pressure and a steam wand, with the usual compromises of its price, which our review lists.
For the tinkerer
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro
A classic with a commercial-style group head. It rewards someone who enjoys dialling in a shot, and it needs a separate grinder.
The splurge
Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL
Brews and steams at the same time with precise temperature control. A gift for a serious home barista, and one of the most expensive machines on the site.
Before you buy
- Think about the person, not the specs. Someone who wants a latte every morning is better served by an automatic machine than by a more capable one they never learn to use.
- Check the grinder. No built-in grinder means a second purchase before the first cup.
- Check the seller and the return window on the Amazon listing. “Ships from and sold by Amazon” keeps the warranty and returns simple.
- Waiting for a sale? See which machines are worth waiting for on Black Friday.
FAQ
Common questions
What is a good espresso machine to give as a gift?
For someone new to espresso, a machine that handles the hard parts is the safest gift: automatic milk steaming, or a built-in grinder with assisted tamping. Our picks above are sorted by who you are buying for.
Should I buy a machine with a built-in grinder?
For a gift, usually yes. A machine without one needs a separate burr grinder, and the person who opens it cannot make coffee until they buy one.
Is it risky to buy a coffee machine for someone else?
A little. Check the Amazon listing for the return window and for who sells it before you buy, and keep the gift receipt. We do not quote prices or delivery dates because Amazon changes both.
Do you get paid if I buy through these links?
Yes. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. We are not affiliated with any of the brands we review.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links to Amazon on this site are affiliate links — they cost you nothing extra. Read the full disclosure.