Costco offers a variety of espresso makers from simpler Nespresso capsule machines to fully-automatic espresso machines that cost up to $2300.
That’s why we decided to review the best espresso makers at Costco under $500.
Espresso models available can vary from store to store. However, you can check online and get any one they offer.
Walmart has a much wider variety of coffee makers and espresso makers.
Great thing about buying from Costco online is that you can return products to any physical store.
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch is the best espresso machine available at Costco. This is due to the amount of features packed into the machine, yet still an affordable price.
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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 it’s 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.
Then there are the Nespresso espresso machines. While not true espresso machines, it is great for those that are not espresso snobs or too picky about the true essence of espresso.
Nespresso machines at Costco are a great way to get espresso without the fuss of an espresso machine (or the cost of a fully-automatic).
Being able to get a shot of espresso and froth your milk at the same time is appealing.
Grinding beans using a burr grinder directly into the a non pressurized filter basket.
It comes with a frothing mug, portafilter, tamper and cleaning kit.
We were curious about Sur La Table brand, especially because they don’t sell espresso machines anywhere but Costco.
So we did a little research.
The Sur La Table brand does not focus on espresso machines. They went bankrupt in 2020 and was bought by holding company Marquee Brands, who also owns brands such as Martha Stewart.
For the price, on paper, it’s a good deal. However, if you don’t have espresso experience and looking for longevity we suggest trying a more reputable espresso brand.
Nespresso is available everywhere from Target to Costco & everywhere in between.
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.
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The Nespresso CitiZ is a classic compact espresso maker. The compact design makes it a great choice if you are limited on counter space.
The milk frother has several features. It can froth warm up to 150 degrees or cold. There are 2 spinning whisks that allow you to adjust the amount of froth or foam (or both) you would like. Definitely generates a nice foam for your espresso.
The Nespresso CitiZ uses a different technology than the VertuoLine. The Virtuo uses a centrifugal type system. Whereas the CitiZ uses a 19 bar pump that isn’t as powerful as the VirtuoLine spinning immersion type.
That being said the crema on the CitiZ is more traditional and the espresso comes out a bit stronger.
Depending on the size, the CitiZ takes approximately 2 minutes to pull a shot. Keep in mind, the machine is just as loud as a Keurig, some argue it is louder.
Learn how to Decipher What Coffee Companies are Trying to Tell You
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.
Calphalon (pronounced Kal-Fa-Lon) espresso machine has been added to the espresso lineup at Costco. This is a 3-in-1 espresso machine that has a built in grinder and steam wand. This is one of the few budget 58mm available.
If you’re a espresso snob you may have to tinker with it a bit to dial in the espresso machine. There are some drawbacks that have simple work-arounds that make this a wonderful machine that gives the Breville Express a run for the money.
Especially since it has a built in grinder and is about $200 cheaper.
You may see this in other locations under different names such as the SunBeam Barista Max or the Oster Xpert Espresso. The Calphalon IQ appears to have used this design.
The portafilter is 58mm. However, that is where the positives end. The portafilter feels cheap and doesn’t retain heat. It feels like it gets up to 80 degrees. The portafilter is proprietary 3 prong, so you’re limited by upgrade features. The spouts are wide, so if your espresso shot is narrow, it will make a mess.
That being said we’ve found two 58mm portafilters that fit the IQ (click the links to view product price & availability):
Tamp is cheap plastic. Here are some suggested 58mm tamps:
The steel pitcher that is included is of great quality.
You will need a scale with this machine. Or an SS dosing cup.
The Jura ENA 8 makes a bold statement aesthetically and has the tech inside to back it up. There is a lot of features packed into the relatively small footprint.
The water tank is encased in a jewel-facet water column that holds 36 ounces. There is one-touch brewing available and maintenance features too.
There are a few of these super all-in-one coffee makers at Costco. This Jura coffee maker is the best for your buck. At $1,499 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.
Check availability at Costco.
You can check the price and availability on Amazon here as well.
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.
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.
The power cable and extra attachments can be tucked under the unit.
Check availability at Costco
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