We unboxed, tamped, steamed, and did shots like it was our job, because, well, it was our job to help you find the best espresso machine for your needs. Weeding out the best espresso machines out of the lot is something we would never wish upon our worst enemies because, well, we did exactly that and it is a journey. The market is fraught with enough competition-not to mention a whole lot of java jargon-to turn your uncaffeinated brain into mush. And the online discourse makes perfect sense. Too many people with way too much time (who are probably wired on caffeine) will talk your ear off as to why one machine is better and another is absolute trash. If you're researching the best espresso machines, chances are you've ended up diving down a Reddit rabbit hole.