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1. De'Longhi EC155 ($82)
If you want a mere step up from a stove-top pot, look to De'Longhi, a household name in Italy. Though mostly plastic, this affordable machine applies 15 bars of pressure — rare at this price point but a must for true espresso. Buy it at Amazon.
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2. Rancilio Silvia ($715)
Known to fans as Ms. Silvia, this classic semi-automatic machine is the gold standard for home espresso makers. "She's a bit like a strong-willed Italian lady: Treat her with respect, and she'll reward you with thick, textured espresso shots," writes Asser Christensen at Coffee Chronicler. Buy it at Amazon.
3. Gaggia Classic Pro ($449)
Ms. Silvia's longtime rival is easier to master for novice baristas. Though it has trouble frothing milk as well as a Breville, the Gaggia consistently yields shots of "surprising complexity." Buy it at Amazon.
4. Breville Barista Express ($700)
This sharply designed stainless steel machine has a built-in burr grinder and a pressure gauge like those on commercial models. It pulls "full-flavored, densely textured" shots, and it makes foam that's velvety enough for latte art. Buy it at Amazon.
5. Espressione Concierge ($600)
Machines that require grinding and loading the coffee offer better control over flavor, but this fully automatic option is "the epitome of convenience." It brews a decent shot at the push of a button. Buy it at Amazon.
Editor's note: Every week The Week's editors survey product reviews and articles in websites, newspapers, and magazines, to find cool and useful new items we think you'll like. We're now making it easier to purchase these selections through affiliate partnerships with certain retailers. The Week may get a share of the revenue from these purchases.
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