What is the best espresso machine under $500 If your budget for a brand Espresso machine new is 500 or less then you'll be able to choose many fantastic alternatives. If you're familiar with espresso machines and the way they work in a semi-automatic way, then a semi-automatic espresso maker could be the best choice for you. You should be able to utilize it without difficulty. If you're new to the world of espresso or are looking for ease of use without sacrificing quality, then you'll absolutely enjoy a fully automated espresso machine and especially the fact that it's less than $500!