Espresso machines are a popular way to make strong, concentrated coffee at home. They use hot water and high pressure to brew coffee quickly. Many models come with built-in grinders, but not everyone needs that feature.
Espresso machines without grinders are a good choice for people who already own a good coffee grinder or prefer to buy pre-ground coffee. These machines focus on brewing quality espresso without adding the extra cost or size of a grinder. They can be simpler to use and easier to clean.
When buying an espresso machine without a grinder, it’s important to pay attention to the type of pump, water temperature control, and build quality. These factors affect how well the machine extracts flavors from the coffee. We spent many hours testing different espresso machines without grinders to find the best ones for easy, high-quality espresso.
Top 3 Espresso Machine: Comparison
We picked three espresso machines that do not have built-in grinders. Each offers a good balance of price, features, and ease of use.
| Machine | Water Temp Control | Pressure | Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino | Yes, precise | 15 bar | Compact | $$$ |
| De’Longhi Dedica | Basic thermostat | 15 bar | Slim design | $$ |
| Gaggia Classic | Manual control | 15 bar | Medium size | $$ |
The Breville Bambino stands out for its fast heat-up and stable temperature, which helps us get good espresso shots every time. It costs more but feels solid and reliable.
The De’Longhi Dedica is slimmer and fits better in small kitchens. It is easy to use but has fewer temperature options. It’s good for those starting with espresso.
The Gaggia Classic gives us more control with manual settings. It’s a bit bigger but lets us customize brewing more. The price is reasonable for its quality and durability.
All three need ground coffee. We think they suit different needs based on space, budget, and how much control we want over the brew.
Best Espresso Machines Without Grinder
We have tested and reviewed many espresso machines that do not include a grinder. Our list focuses on models that deliver great espresso with ease and durability. Below, you will find the best options to suit different needs and budgets.
Breville Barista Express
This machine is a solid choice when you want hands-on control without the grinder included.
Pros
- Easy to adjust brewing settings to fit your taste
- Durable stainless steel build feels premium and lasts long
- Steam wand produces good milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos
Cons
- Takes some time to learn how to use it well
- No built-in grinder means buying one separately
- Large footprint can take up lots of counter space
We found the Breville Barista Express excellent for making espresso the way we like it. The temperature control keeps the extraction consistent, so cups come out balanced. Even without a grinder, it’s easy to customize your brew if you have a quality grinder on hand.
Using the steam wand to make microfoam gave us plenty of options with milk-based drinks. It requires some practice, but once you get the hang of it, the results are satisfying. The machine’s sturdy design means it feels like it can handle daily use for years.
However, keep in mind that this model includes a grinder, so if you want one without, you might look at slightly different models or separate grinders. Also, it’s fairly large, so make sure you have enough counter space before buying. Overall, it’s great gear for an espresso fan who prefers manual control and quality results.
Imusa Espresso Maker
This espresso maker is a solid choice for anyone looking for a simple, affordable machine that brews flavorful espresso and makes cappuccinos without fuss.
Pros
- Brews up to 4 cups quickly
- Easy to clean with removable drip tray
- Milk frother works well for creamy drinks
Cons
- Small water tank means frequent refills
- Plastic exterior feels less durable
- Manual operation needs some practice
We liked how fast this machine made espresso compared to other home machines we’ve tried. It fits nicely on the counter without taking up much space. The milk frother made our cappuccinos really creamy, adding to the overall experience.
The removable drip tray and filter basket allowed us to clean up in a flash, which is a plus when you’re making multiple drinks. Still, the plastic build felt a bit light, so handling it with care is necessary.
While the machine is very straightforward, we noticed it takes a little time to get the hang of the manual steps to get your espresso just right. It’s a good fit for those who want a no-frills, budget-friendly espresso machine.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is a solid choice for those wanting fast, quality espresso without a built-in grinder.
Pros
- Heats up very quickly, almost instantly ready
- Easy to use with one-touch steam wand for milk frothing
- Compact size fits well on most counters
Cons
- Requires a separate grinder to get the best results
- Some users find the auto-frothing inconsistent at times
- Lacks detailed cleaning alerts, which means manual upkeep
We found the Breville Bambino Plus very straightforward to operate. It delivers espresso with good flavor thanks to the precise temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion. Getting your grind size and dose right separately makes a real difference.
Milk frothing is mostly hands-off here. The automatic steam wand heats and textures milk nicely, though it can be a little hit or miss if you want perfect foam every time. Still, this model is a big step up from simpler machines.
Its small footprint means it won’t take up much counter space, which we appreciated. While it’s not a complete all-in-one unit, the speed and espresso quality make it a great buy for anyone with a grinder already at home.
Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso Machine
This machine is a solid pick for anyone wanting a flexible espresso maker without the hassle of grinding separately.
Pros
- Brews espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew all in one unit
- Barista Assist guides us for better flavor every time
- Dual Froth System froths milk hands-free with presets
Cons
- It’s a bit large, so it needs decent counter space
- The learning curve is a little steep at first
- Pricier than basic espresso machines without grinders
We found the Ninja Luxe Café easy to use after a short adjustment period. The Barista Assist technology really helps with dosing and brewing, so we don’t have to guess the right grind size or pressure. It creates a balanced shot without much trial and error.
Switching between espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew is convenient. The cold brew option adds a smooth flavor, perfect for iced coffee drinks. The hands-free frothing system was impressive and worked well whether we used dairy or plant-based milk.
On the downside, the machine is on the larger side, which can be tricky for smaller kitchens. It also takes some time to get used to all the features, but once we did, it made great coffee every time. Overall, it’s worth it if you want a smart machine that does more than just espresso.
Ninja Barista System
The Ninja Barista System is a solid choice if you want flexible espresso and coffee options without dealing with grinding beans.
Pros
- Makes smooth espresso with good crema using capsules
- Includes a built-in frother for lattes and cappuccinos
- Can brew multiple coffee sizes, from single cups to a 12-cup carafe
Cons
- Only works with espresso capsules, which can add to cost
- A bit bulky, takes up space on the counter
- Capsule storage bin needs frequent emptying if you drink a lot
We found that the Ninja Barista System hits a great balance between espresso and regular coffee. The 19-bar pressure makes the espresso taste rich and smooth. The crema on top is noticeable, which improves the overall cup.
Switching between espresso shots and larger coffee brews was simple thanks to the variety of sizes. We liked brewing for a group with the 12-cup option. The frother worked well and gave nicely textured milk for cappuccinos right out of the machine.
On the downside, you must buy capsules separately, so it’s not as cheap as ground coffee. The machine is a bit on the larger side, meaning it takes some counter space. The capsule bin fills quickly, so cleaning it often is necessary after multiple uses.
Overall, for those wanting easy espresso drinks without grinding, this system performs reliably and offers good drink variety.
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro
We think the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is a great choice for anyone wanting a solid espresso machine that delivers café-quality shots without a built-in grinder.
Pros
- Durable steel build that feels sturdy
- Commercial steam wand perfect for creamy milk foam
- Quiet pump and updated boiler for better reliability
Cons
- Need to buy a grinder separately
- Slight learning curve for dialing in espresso shots
- Takes up more counter space than some compact models
Using this machine felt like having a professional setup at home. It pulls rich espresso with steady 9-bar pressure, and the portafilter fits either single or double shots without fuss. We appreciated the heavy-duty feel—it’s not plastic and didn’t feel cheap at all.
The steam wand is really powerful. We could create smooth, velvety milk for lattes and cappuccinos easily. Texturing milk was simple enough for beginners, but skilled users can also get creative with latte art.
We did notice that it’s not for quick, grab-and-go coffee. The machine takes a few minutes to warm up, and you must grind beans separately. But once you get used to the process, it’s rewarding and consistent every time. Overall, it’s a reliable choice built to last.
CASABREWS Espresso Machine CM5418
This espresso machine is a solid choice for those who want strong coffee and good milk frothing without needing a built-in grinder.
Pros
- Makes espresso with rich crema and good flavor
- Powerful steam wand for creamy milk foam
- Compact design fits well in small kitchens
Cons
- Needs time to cool down after frothing milk
- Hot water function is a bit slow
- Pressurized portafilter might limit some coffee styles
We found the CASABREWS machine easy to use, especially for making espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The 20 bar pressure pump delivers a good extraction, and the espresso shots come out tasting fresh and balanced.
The built-in steam wand works well for frothing milk and creating smooth microfoam. It’s powerful enough to make a café-style cappuccino that has both texture and flavor. The water tank is large and easy to fill, which means fewer refills during a busy morning.
One small downside is the need to pause after steaming milk before pulling the shot again. This takes some getting used to but helps avoid overheating. The machine also feels durable with its stainless steel finish and stays compact enough for tight counter space. Overall, it’s an affordable option that gives a true espresso experience without extra bells like a grinder.
Essenza Mini by Breville
We recommend the Essenza Mini if you want a simple, space-saving espresso machine that makes quality coffee fast.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily in small kitchens
- Heats up quickly and brews espresso in seconds
- Easy to use with just one button for two cup sizes
Cons
- Only works with Nespresso capsules, no ground coffee
- Limited control over brewing strength and volume
- Capsule cost can add up over time
The Essenza Mini surprised us with its small size and fast performance. Even in tight spaces, it fit perfectly without taking over the counter. It was ready to brew in less than 30 seconds, and the coffee came out smooth with a nice crema on top.
Using the machine is straightforward. You just pop in a capsule, press a button, and you have espresso or lungo in moments. We liked that it had an energy-saving mode that turns the machine off automatically, which is great for busy mornings.
One drawback is that you’re locked into buying capsules. This limits coffee choice and can be pricier than ground beans. Still, the reliable quality and consistency make it a good option for anyone who wants quick, fuss-free espresso without extra steps.
De’Longhi All-in-One Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine
This machine is a solid choice if you want to brew both espresso and drip coffee quickly without a built-in grinder.
Pros
- Brews coffee and espresso at the same time without waiting
- Easy-to-use digital touchscreen with a 24-hour timer
- Advanced steam wand for good milk frothing on lattes and cappuccinos
Cons
- Takes up more counter space than single-function machines
- No built-in grinder means you must have pre-ground coffee or pods
- Some may find the carafe glass fragile and a bit tricky to pour
We found the dual heating system handy for mornings when some want a simple drip coffee and others want espresso. There is no waiting around between brew types, which speeds things up. The touchscreen is easy and responsive, making the bold setting simple to customize if you like your coffee stronger.
The steam wand works well for frothing milk, creating decent microfoam for cappuccinos and lattes. Using the 2-in-1 portafilter to switch between pods and ground coffee is convenient but requires some practice to avoid messes.
Cleaning is straightforward, although the machine takes a bit of room on the countertop. The glass carafe feels delicate, so careful handling is needed to avoid spills when serving. Overall, it’s a good all-in-one espresso and coffee machine if you don’t need a grinder built-in.
Nespresso Vertuo
This machine works well for those who want fast, consistent espresso and coffee without needing a grinder or complicated setup.
Pros
- Brews multiple cup sizes with one button
- Heats up very quickly, ready in about 20 seconds
- Comes with a milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes
Cons
- Limited to using Nespresso capsules only
- Capsule cost can add up over time
- Some users report occasional leaks
We found the Nespresso Vertuo easy to use from the start. The machine feels solid and the coffee tastes clean with a good crema on espresso shots. It’s perfect if you want coffee or espresso fast without grinding beans or measuring grounds.
The milk frother works well and adds a nice touch for making fancy drinks like cappuccinos. The 54 oz water reservoir means fewer refills, which helps when making several cups in a row.
A downside is the capsule system. You must buy Nespresso pods, which might not fit every budget. Also, a few people have mentioned small leaks after long use. Overall though, if you value speed and ease over full bean control, this machine is a solid pick.
Buying Guide
When we look for the best espresso machine without a grinder, we focus on a few key features. First, brewing pressure matters. A machine with at least 9 bars of pressure helps extract espresso well. This pressure pushes water through the coffee grounds to create a rich flavor.
Next, we check the water reservoir size. A bigger tank means fewer refills, which is handy if we make several cups in one go. Also, the boiler type affects how fast the machine heats and how stable the temperature is.
We also think about ease of use and cleaning. Machines with simple controls and removable parts make it easier for us to maintain them. A clear drip tray and accessible water tank save time.
| Feature | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | Minimum 9 bars | Ensures good espresso extraction |
| Water Reservoir | Size that fits your daily coffee needs | Less refilling, more convenience |
| Boiler Type | Single or double depending on how fast you want | Impacts heat stability and speed |
| Controls | Simple buttons or manual knobs | Easy to use |
| Cleaning | Removable parts and drip tray | Easier maintenance |
Finally, we consider size and design. The machine should fit comfortably in our kitchen space. A compact model works well for small kitchens. The material can also affect durability and appearance.
Editor’s Choice
We chose the Breville BES870XL as our top pick for the best espresso machine without a grinder. It offers strong build quality and consistent espresso shots without needing a built-in grinder.
This machine has easy controls that help you adjust shot time and temperature. It also includes a steam wand for frothing milk, which is great for making lattes or cappuccinos.
| Feature | Breville BES870XL |
|---|---|
| Brew Type | Espresso only |
| Controls | Manual and programmable |
| Steam Wand | Yes |
| Boiler Type | Stainless steel |
| Price Range | Mid to high |
We like that this machine is suitable for users who prefer to buy pre-ground coffee or use a separate grinder. It gives you freedom to control grind size separately, which can affect flavor.
The build feels solid and durable. It also heats quickly and produces good crema. Maintenance is straightforward, with easy access to clean parts.
While it is not the cheapest option, the quality and control make it worth the investment for those who want good espresso without extra features like a grinder.
FAQs
Q: Why choose an espresso machine without a grinder?
We pick machines without grinders because it gives us control over the coffee grind. This helps us use fresh ground beans from a separate grinder.
Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee in these machines?
Yes, pre-ground coffee works fine. Just make sure it is ground for espresso to get a good taste and crema.
Q: How do I clean a machine without a grinder?
Cleaning is simple. We just rinse the portafilter and group head regularly. Descaling the machine every few months keeps it working well.
Q: Are machines without grinders cheaper?
Usually, yes. They cost less because they lack a built-in grinder component, which makes buying a good separate grinder necessary.
Q: What features should we look for?
Look for good temperature control, pressure stability, and sturdy build. A steam wand is helpful if we want to make milk drinks.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Ensures espresso tastes consistent |
| Pressure | Needed for proper extraction |
| Steam Wand | Lets us make lattes and cappuccinos |
We should always match the machine with a grinder that suits our brewing style and budget.
Conclusion
Choosing the right espresso machine without a grinder depends on what we value most. Some of us want simple controls and fast brewing. Others prefer machines with temperature stability and good pressure.
We can look at durability, ease of use, and cleaning when deciding. Machines that offer consistent shots without needing built-in grinders serve well for many users.
A list of what to consider can help us pick the best fit:
- Brew quality
- Water temperature control
- Size and design
- Price and budget
- Compatibility with our preferred coffee beans
With these points in mind, we can find a machine that matches our needs. It allows us to use our favorite separate grinder or pre-ground coffee.
We believe picking a machine without a grinder offers flexibility. It lets us control the grinding step ourselves and often lowers the cost of the espresso maker.
Our goal is to help make an informed choice based on clear features and personal preference. This way, we get good espresso without extra parts we might not need.
