I thought I had to spend $1k for barista-quality espresso, but I was wrong — I've tested 45 machines, these are my top 3 budget picks

In my 4-star review of the Casabrews 3700 Essential, I couldn't believe the performance for the price. Unlike other budget Casabrews machines, you don't have to purge the boiler (release water from the steam wand or group head without actually making coffee) when switching between steam and espresso. Although it's quite plasticky and flimsy, it's literally $109/$99 on sale. For this price, you aren't going to get better. With some skill (and maybe a bottomless portafilter), you can make seriously delicious espresso at home.

I love the De'Longhi Stilosa — it's one of the best ways to get great coffee for less at home. In my 4-star review of the De'Longhi Stilosa, I praised its affordability, powerful steam wand, and delicious espresso. I actually made some of the best latte art of my life on this underdog espresso machine. Although it's quite plasticky and not as pretty as Breville's budget models, it still does a fantastic job of making barista coffee for less.

Now the Breville Bambino is the only espresso machine I've ever given a perfect 5-star rating. For $299, you get premium, coffee-snob-approved features like a customizable pre-infusion time and a PID controller (temperature controller), a powerful steam wand, and, of course, an affordable price. This is the perfect bridge between a serious espresso enthusiast and a general coffee drinker. If I had to buy just one model on this list, it would be the Bambino.