Java Groove's Choice
The Best Espresso Machine at Costco
The De’Longhi Dedica EC860 is the best espresso machine available at Costco. This is due to the amount of features packed into the machine, yet still allowing you to control your shot.
Best Espresso Machines Under $500 at Costco
A review of the espresso makers at Costco Wholesale
Costco offers a wide variety of espresso makers from simpler capsule machines to fully-automatic all-in-one espresso machines that cost $4000. That’s why we decided to go over the best espresso maker at Costco under $500.
Espresso models available can vary from store to store. However, you can check online and get almost any one they have. That being said, stores may be the only location where you can pick up the espresso machine you prefer. Great thing about buying from Costco online is that you can return products to any physical store.
Great thing about buying from Costco online is that you can return products to any physical store.
Understanding What You Need
These espresso machines at Costco are the less expensive models they offer. That being said most require a bit of work. If you’re new to espresso that’s great, but be prepared to make mistakes and learn. You’re probably not going to make a perfect latte the first try. It’s easy to learn and rewarding…literally. Think of the money you’ll save!
Semi-automatic espresso machines require a bit of knowledge to operate. The espresso machine must be calibrated, heated, and the right amount of grinds should be added and tamped correctly.
Then there is the aspect of frothing milk. If this sounds like a bit too much work then consider a fully-automatic espresso machine… but also be prepared to shell out a bit more cash.
Looking for the Best Coffee Maker at Costco?
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De'Longhi Manual Espresso and Cappuccino Machine - ECP3220
The De’Longhi ECP3220BK has several comparable models. This specific model is a Costco exclusive and approximately $50 less than the comparable models ECP3420, ECP3630, which can be found on Amazon. The main difference between these models is that the ECP3630 is all stainless steel, whereas the ECP3220 has stainless steel accents.
The ECP3220 produces 15 bars of pressure so it runs fast. The manual frother created a creamy froth without needing to be moved around.
The 37oz water tank is removable. You can also easily read the water level. This model can make 2 shots of espresso at a time.
Costco Link
Amazon Link
Drawbacks
- The espresso shot doesn't get too hot. If you're taking your drink on the go then consider an insulated cup.
- Not considered a true drawback, but if you're new to semi-automatic espresso machines then the ECP3220 has a bit of a learning curve. Keep in mind in addition to knowing how to make an espresso drink, and you would like to make use of the one-touch functions, then you have to program it.
- It’s been reported that the grinds get stuck in the portafilter, which should be cleaned often.
Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker
Although not a true espresso maker, the Nespresso Vertuo Next produces espresso-like flavors if you purchase the right capsule. This is more geared toward those that enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, flavored macchiatos, etc., but without the fuss of an espresso machine. If you like sugary Starbucks coffee drinks, then this is an easy choice.
As of this writing the Vertuo Next was one of the newer Nespresso machines. The Vertuo Next cannot be found any cheaper anywhere else than Costco. Keep in mind you have to be a member to get the 169.99 price.
The functionality cannot be simpler. Capsule machines avoid human error almost entirely. Keep the water reservoir full, pop a sealed capsule of coffee into the machine, and press the only button on the machine.
It comes with 42 assorted capsules to start you off. Nespresso makes very flavorful coffee that users rave over. With the large variety of capsule flavors available, you can be sure you’ll find at least one you like. Also beats the monotony of large bags of the same flavor coffee from Costco.
Comes with a separate milk frother that is also very easy to use. Nespresso provides value for the price in terms of ease of use and quality of flavor. Which is beneficial for the casual espresso drinker.
Costco Link
Amazon Link
Drawbacks
- Calling it an espresso maker is a misnomer. There are capsules that offer an espresso flavor and if you're not an espresso connoisseur then you’ll be fine.
- Be prepared to be stuck in the Vertuo ecosystem. There are barcodes that can be identified by the Nespresso maker, which let the machine know appropriate variables to get the beverage right. However, the capsules are not sold everywhere and you must buy Vertuo capsules.
- Can be expensive. Especially if there is more than 1 person drinking coffee more than once a day.
- Bluetooth functionality is a gimmick.
De'Longhi Dedica Espresso Machine EC860
This De’Longhi EC860 is one of the more feature packed espresso machines. It’s why we’ve crowed the EC860 the best espresso machine at Costco.
It’s a semi-automatic that has automatic features. It’s a pleasant trade off for what it can do, but still allowing you to have control over your cup. You can program the amount of milk and water in order to get a cup with 1 button.
Froth the milk automatically in the milk tank or manually using the steam wand.
Pros
- Simple to refill
- Easy to program automatic functionality
- Cup heater
- Auto milk frothing - but still have control
Cons
- Takes time to learn all the functionality. Comes with a book but finding video instructions is better.
The De’Longhi is feature packed and deserves it’s own review.
Costco Link
Capresso EC100 Espresso Machine
If you’re looking for a semi-automatic espresso machine that has stood the test of time then you’ll enjoy the Capresso EC100. Simplicity is what has kept this machine in production for over 8 years now.
Since its inception there have been improvements to the machine. Now it comes with a portafilter with double spouts and double pressurized basket. Capresso upgraded the portafilter to stainless steel and no longer uses brass. It uses a single basket in a bottomless portafilter.
Costco Link
Amazon Link
Drawbacks
- The biggest complaint was leaking. Some users claimed it leaked from the water tank or from the portafilter.
- Soupy puck. Not a traditional dry puck you can bang out. A bit of a mess if you're not used to it. That being said, the portafilter is a twist lock. That way it can be knocked out easily in the trash and rinsed.
Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Machine
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse at Costco is an upgrade from the Mr. Coffee Barista. It’s a semi-automatic espresso maker. There are some programmed features but you have to tamp your shot yourself. The CoffeeHouse One-Touch automatically foams milk. You can adjust the amount of milk froth easily.
The buttons are pre-programmed for ease of use. The machine also has self-cleaning functionality. Comes with 2 ceramic cups.
Costco Link
Amazon Link
Drawbacks
- Since there are 2 removable reservoir tanks there is more to clean
- Some users complained about having to push the button more than once to get it to work.
Above $500
Jura E8
There are a few of these super all-in-one coffee makers at Costco. The Jura E8 coffee maker is the best for your buck. At $1,799 it is pricy. Unfortunately they didn’t have them at any of the local stores. I’ve read the reviews and sometimes they have refurbished ones on sale in-store.
Perhaps there are some available in-store close to your location. If so, and they’re within your price range then we highly recommend these quality coffee makers. There were some Jura espresso makers available online at the time of this writing.
Check availability at CostcoWant to Learn More About the Jura E8?
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Espresso Accessories at Costco
De'Longhi Espresso Machine Maintainance Kit
- Extends life of machine
- Made for De'Longhi espresso & coffee machines
- Reduces Damage from Hard Water, Increases Energy Efficiency, and Improves Coffee Flavor
Capresso Milk Frother
Looking for a milk frother at Costco?
Capresso is known for quality, so you know this milk frother is going to make it quick and easy with its simple dial.
Whether you’re looking for hot, warm or cold foam, this frother has you covered. If you’re looking for hot milk there is another attachment so your milk doesn’t burn.
Easy to Use
There are icons on the machine that show which mode is currently selected. Rotate the dial to get your desired milk temperature. It’s easy to clean too. You can immerse the entire pitcher in water and rinse out.
Compact Design
The power cable and extra attachments can be tucked under the unit.
Check availability at Costco
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