Top 10 Best Commercial Espresso Machines
Choosing the right espresso machine is no small feat—it’s a major decision and a considerable investment, regardless of which model you go with.
Having worked closely with countless café owners, we understand just how complex this decision can be. Finding a commercial coffee machine that balances functionality, quality, and budget is rarely straightforward, especially when navigating an ever-expanding market of options.
We also recognize that not every café can afford the latest, top-tier equipment. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide—to help you identify the features that matter most while keeping cost-effectiveness in mind. Our goal is to simplify your search and bring you closer to selecting a machine that truly fits your business.
Before we dive into our curated recommendations, it’s important to explore some foundational concepts around how commercial espresso machines work. Understanding the basics—from machine types and brewing mechanisms to factors like durability, energy use, and maintenance—will better prepare you to make an informed, confident decision.
This guide is designed to give you the clarity and insight needed to choose a machine that not only satisfies your current demands but also supports your long-term success.
We’re passionate about great coffee and equally passionate about seeing your business flourish. Through our shared knowledge and experience, we hope to empower you to find the espresso machine that will serve as a cornerstone of your café for years to come.
1 Eversys Legacy - Best All Round Super Automatic Coffee Machine
Cost: $15,500 – $21,000 (2 group)
The Eversys Legacy is a premium super-automatic espresso machine engineered to deliver café-quality coffee with the speed and precision of automation. It’s an ideal choice for environments that demand both high performance and consistent results, without sacrificing craftsmanship.
What sets the Eversys Legacy apart is its intelligent design and advanced automation. The machine autonomously manages grinding, dosing, and tamping processes with remarkable accuracy—consistently producing espresso shots that match the standard of skilled baristas. This high level of precision ensures quality in every cup, with minimal manual input required.
For milk preparation, the Legacy offers flexible options with both one-step and two-step frothing systems. The one-step system automatically steams and dispenses milk directly into the cup, streamlining service. Meanwhile, the two-step setup gives baristas more control over texture and temperature—perfect for those who want to craft detailed latte art or fine-tune milk-based drinks.
In terms of output, the Eversys Legacy is built to perform under pressure. It can produce up to 175 coffee beverages per hour, making it well-suited for high-traffic cafés, restaurants, and corporate environments. Despite its high throughput, it maintains a consistently high standard in taste, temperature, and presentation.
Ease of use is another major advantage. A responsive touchscreen interface simplifies operation, making it easy for staff to navigate settings and manage drink preparation, even during busy service times. The built-in automated cleaning system uses cleaning tablets to keep internal components sanitized, reducing maintenance time and helping meet hygiene standards effortlessly.
Additionally, the Legacy supports remote monitoring and management via telemetry. This feature allows businesses to track machine performance, schedule maintenance, and implement quality control remotely, especially useful for multi-location operations aiming for uniform excellence and reduced downtime.
2 La Cimbali M200 - High Performance Espresso Machine
Cost: $21,240 – $25,640. (2 group – 3 group)
The La Cimbali M200 GT 2 Group is a high-performance commercial espresso machine built to handle the fast pace of busy cafés. Known for its advanced technology and ergonomic design, it delivers consistent, high-quality coffee with ease of use.
A standout feature is its PID temperature control, which ensures precise boiler temperature regulation for optimal espresso extraction. With independent boilers for each group head, baristas can fine-tune brews and maintain thermal stability across multiple drinks.
Designed with baristas in mind, the M200 GT offers an adjustable worktop, touchscreen interface, and angled steam wands for enhanced comfort and control. Its Smart Boiler system keeps steam and hot water readily available, even during peak service times.
Customisation options—like lighting and panel graphics—allow cafés to tailor the machine’s look to their brand. Added tools such as digital shot timers and integrated scales help ensure consistency and precision in every cup, making it a smart, stylish choice for quality-focused coffee venues.
3 La Marzocco Linea Classic - Most Popular Commercial Espresso Machine
Cost: $12,950 – $18,000. (2 group – 4 group)
The La Marzocco Linea Classic has long been a staple in the world of professional coffee, celebrated for its outstanding reliability, robust construction, and consistent results. Favoured by baristas and café owners around the globe, this machine is designed to meet the demands of busy coffee shops that prioritise performance and quality in every cup.
A standout feature of the Linea Classic is its dual boiler system, which enables baristas to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time. Each boiler operates independently—one for brewing, the other for steaming—ensuring temperature stability and smooth operation even during peak trading hours. This setup supports a faster, more efficient workflow without sacrificing drink quality.
Precision temperature control is another strength of the Linea Classic, thanks to its integrated PID system. This technology maintains stable brewing temperatures, helping baristas extract the full flavour potential from every shot. By eliminating temperature fluctuations, the PID controller ensures repeatable excellence in espresso preparation—an essential feature for high-volume environments.
Built to endure, the Linea Classic is crafted from durable stainless steel, making it more than capable of withstanding the daily pressures of a commercial setting. Its reputation for longevity and minimal maintenance means fewer interruptions to service and a better return on investment over time.
Ease of use is also central to the Linea Classic’s appeal. Its clean, functional design provides an intuitive user experience, allowing baristas of all skill levels to work efficiently, even under pressure. The machine’s classic aesthetics and refined profile also add a professional, polished look to any café interior.
Another notable advantage is the machine’s flexibility. Available in one- to four-group versions, the Linea Classic can be tailored to suit the needs of cafés of all sizes. This adaptability makes it one of the most dependable and versatile commercial espresso machines on the market, capable of scaling with your business as it grows.
4 La Marzocco KB90 – Built for Baristas, Engineered for Endurance
Cost: $28,000 (2 group)
The La Marzocco KB90 is a cutting-edge commercial espresso machine engineered to maximise workflow and efficiency in busy café settings. One of its most innovative features is the straight-in portafilter mechanism, which allows baristas to lock in the portafilter with minimal effort. This ergonomic design reduces physical strain and speeds up drink preparation, particularly valuable during high-traffic periods.
Another standout innovation is the automatic steam flush, which activates after each shot is pulled. This function uses a burst of steam to clean the group head, helping maintain optimal brewing conditions and reduce flavour contamination between extractions. By automating part of the cleaning process, the KB90 also frees up baristas to focus on customer service.
Precision is at the core of the KB90’s performance, with dual PID controls ensuring accurate temperature management for both brewing water and steam. Each group head is paired with an independent boiler, enabling simultaneous brewing and milk frothing without compromising thermal stability—a crucial feature in high-demand environments.
The machine’s layout is designed with the barista in mind. From its user-friendly interface to its thoughtfully placed controls, every element is tailored to reduce fatigue and streamline operations. The KB90 offers a more intuitive and comfortable experience for staff, helping maintain energy and focus throughout long shifts.
As with all La Marzocco equipment, the KB90 is built to last. Constructed from premium materials and designed for durability, it stands up to the rigours of daily use in commercial settings. Its solid build quality ensures dependable performance over time, making it a smart investment for any serious coffee business.
In addition to its technical strengths, the KB90 is also visually customisable. With a selection of colours and finishes available, café owners can align the machine’s look with their brand and décor, adding both function and style to their workspace.
5 La Marzocco Linea PB – Engineered for High-Volume Espresso Excellence
Cost: $19,750 – $26,750 (2 group – 4 group)
The La Marzocco Linea PB is a top-tier commercial espresso machine designed for cafés and baristas who prioritise precision, reliability, and high-performance output. Built for busy environments, it combines advanced engineering with intuitive controls to deliver consistently excellent results. At its core is a dual PID system, which independently regulates the temperature of the brewing water and steam. This ensures every espresso shot is extracted with temperature stability, enhancing flavour clarity and cup quality.
One of the Linea PB’s standout capabilities is its adaptability. Optional integrated drip tray scales enable automatic shot weighing, ensuring accurate dosing and consistent extraction with every use. Adjustable brew temperatures and steam pressure give baristas full control to fine-tune the machine according to specific blends or customer preferences.
The machine also shines in terms of usability and design. Its minimalist aesthetic is paired with a durable, ergonomic build that makes operation straightforward, even during peak service. The interface is easy to navigate, reducing the learning curve for new staff and supporting a seamless workflow for seasoned baristas.
Eco Mode adds a layer of sustainability, allowing the Linea PB to conserve energy during slower periods—helping businesses reduce both costs and their environmental footprint. It’s a thoughtful feature for cafés striving to operate more responsibly.
Built with La Marzocco’s renowned craftsmanship, the Linea PB is constructed from premium materials to handle the demands of daily commercial use. Its solid build and dependable performance make it a smart, long-term investment for coffee-focused businesses, reducing downtime and maintenance while ensuring the coffee stays centre stage.
6 Eversys Cameo – The Ultimate All-Round Super-Automatic Coffee Solution
Cost: $27,720 (2 group)
The Eversys Cameo is a high-end super-automatic coffee machine crafted to combine artisan-level coffee quality with the speed and reliability of automation. It’s a standout option for cafés, offices, and hospitality venues seeking consistent, barista-style beverages without the need for extensive staff training.
At the heart of the Cameo’s appeal is its intelligent automation. The machine continuously monitors and adjusts key variables such as grind size, coffee dose, and tamp pressure, ensuring each espresso is brewed to perfection. This self-calibrating system removes the guesswork, delivering café-quality results with every cup.
When it comes to milk, the Cameo offers flexibility to suit different service models. Its one-step system automatically textures and dispenses milk directly into the cup—ideal for high-speed environments—while the two-step option allows for manual steaming, perfect for baristas who want more control or wish to craft detailed latte art.
Designed for high demand, the Eversys Cameo can produce up to 175 beverages per hour without sacrificing consistency or flavour. It’s built to thrive in fast-paced settings, from bustling cafés to high-end office lounges, where quality and speed must go hand in hand.
The machine is also a winner in terms of user experience. Its responsive touchscreen makes operation and customisation straightforward, even for newcomers. Plus, the integrated automatic cleaning cycle—using specialised tablets—helps maintain hygiene and performance with minimal manual effort.
One of the most forward-thinking features is its remote connectivity. Through a built-in telemetry system, the Cameo can transmit data on performance, maintenance needs, and drink output. This makes it easy to manage from afar, especially beneficial for operators overseeing multiple venues or aiming to standardise coffee quality across locations.
7 La Marzocco GB5 – Superior Ergonomics and Comfort-First Design
Cost: $20,000 (2 group)
The La Marzocco GB5 is a top-tier commercial espresso machine designed for cafés that demand precision, consistency, and style. Engineered with advanced thermal stability in mind, it features a dual PID system that independently controls the temperature of both brewing water and steam. This precise regulation ensures consistent espresso extraction, helping baristas deliver high-quality shots that meet the expectations of specialty coffee professionals.
What sets the GB5 apart is its thoughtful blend of performance and sustainability. Its energy-efficient design includes an Eco Mode that reduces power consumption during quieter periods, lowering operating costs while supporting environmentally conscious practices. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to cut their carbon footprint without compromising on quality.
The GB5 also stands out for its ergonomic and user-centric design. With a clean interface and programmable buttons, it offers easy access to customised drink settings—perfect for maintaining speed and accuracy during busy service. The layout is designed to reduce barista fatigue, promoting a smooth and efficient workflow throughout the day.
Durability is another hallmark of the GB5. Crafted from premium materials and built to withstand daily commercial use, it’s a machine that’s made to last. Its robust construction ensures reliable performance in high-volume environments, offering long-term value for coffee-focused businesses.
Visually, the GB5 exudes sophistication. Its refined silhouette and polished exterior make it more than just a machine—it becomes part of the café’s aesthetic. Whether placed on a sleek modern counter or within a more traditional setup, the GB5 adds an elegant presence that enhances the customer experience.
8 La Cimbali M40 – Cutting-Edge Innovation in Espresso Technology
Cost: $18,480 (2 group)
The La Cimbali M40 redefines the fusion of heritage and modernity, delivering a sleek, compact build that balances robust performance with refined visual appeal. Built for commercial settings, this coffee machine incorporates state-of-the-art features to optimize barista workflow and elevate the customer experience. At the core of its innovation is the Eco-Smart Thermal System, a technology that prioritizes energy conservation without compromising coffee quality. It significantly cuts down on power usage while maintaining the precision and consistency essential for specialty coffee preparation—ideal for eco-conscious businesses.
Designed with ergonomics in mind, the M40 enhances user comfort and safety. The group heads are centrally positioned, away from the steam wands, to improve workflow efficiency and minimize the risk of burns. Its interface features a responsive, full-touch capacitive keypad, enabling baristas to customize coffee recipes quickly and intuitively.
Key to its performance is La Cimbali’s Perfect Grinding System (PGS), which auto-regulates grind size and dose to guarantee consistent extraction. Paired with the Barista Drive System, the machine intelligently identifies the portafilter and applies the appropriate recipe, streamlining operations and reducing the chance of user error during busy service times.
Maintenance has also been thoughtfully engineered—its modular design allows for fast, straightforward servicing, lowering downtime and operational costs, especially in high-traffic environments.
To further enhance usability, the M40 is compatible with the La Cimbali Project App, allowing users to remotely configure settings and personalize recipes via smartphone. With built-in IoT connectivity, the machine also integrates seamlessly with La Cimbali’s Art In Coffee platform for real-time monitoring, performance analytics, and remote management.
9 Casadio Undici 2 Group – Top Choice for Entry-Level Espresso Machines
Cost: $4,300 (2 group)
The Casadio Undici 2 Group is a smart, reliable choice for cafés, restaurants, and coffee bars with moderate daily demand. Built for ease of use and dependable performance, it’s a go-to solution for those seeking a professional-grade espresso machine that won’t overwhelm staff or require extensive training.
Engineered for simplicity, the Undici features clearly labeled, intuitive push-button controls that streamline operation—even for beginners. This user-friendly interface minimizes learning curves, making it perfect for teams with varying levels of barista experience.
At the heart of the machine lies a fixed-nozzle thermosyphon system, which ensures stable temperature management for consistently well-extracted espresso. This thermal design maintains brewing precision across multiple servings, so each shot meets the same high-quality standard.
Crafted from durable stainless steel and aluminum, the Undici is built to last in busy hospitality environments. Its compact footprint is ideal for tighter workspaces, yet it delivers the performance needed to keep up with medium- to high-volume service.
Functionality is enhanced by mechanical control panels equipped with LED-backlit buttons, allowing for accurate, programmable volumetric dosing. This means baristas can save and replicate specific shot volumes, ensuring every coffee is made to spec with minimal variation.
Maintenance is another strong point. Thanks to its modular construction, servicing the Undici is straightforward and efficient—an essential feature for fast-paced operations that can’t afford downtime. The machine’s design makes routine upkeep simple, helping businesses maintain performance with less hassle.
10 Slayer Steam EP – Most Stylish Espresso Machine
Cost: from $20,000 (2 group)
The Slayer Steam EP stands out for its exceptional thermal stability and precision engineering. Each group head is equipped with its own dedicated brew boiler and PID temperature control, allowing baristas to maintain consistent brewing temperatures across multiple drinks—even during the busiest service periods. This level of control ensures that every espresso shot is crafted with accuracy and consistency.
A major highlight of the Steam EP is its advanced volumetric dosing system, which offers up to four programmable shot profiles per group. This system allows for fine-tuned shot control and consistency across different brews. Additionally, the integrated Pre-Wet function—adjustable from 0 to 4 seconds—enhances extraction by gently pre-infusing the coffee puck, unlocking greater depth and nuance in every shot.
Designed with barista workflow in mind, the Steam EP features the Barista Dashboard™, a streamlined, heads-up display that simplifies operation and programming. This centralised interface allows for easy adjustments on the fly, making it ideal for fast-paced environments. Ergonomics are also well considered, with soft-touch steam actuators and thoughtfully designed portafilters that reduce strain and increase efficiency behind the bar.
Built to endure the demands of commercial use, the Steam EP combines premium materials with a low-maintenance design. Its electronic solenoid steam valves are engineered for longevity, reducing service intervals and improving reliability. This makes the machine not only high-performing but also cost-effective over time.
Visually, the Steam EP delivers just as much impact. With a low-profile body, generous drip tray, and a sleek anodized aluminum finish, it brings a contemporary edge to any café. Its open layout encourages interaction between baristas and customers, blending form and function in a way that enhances both service and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW DOES AN ESPRESSO MACHINE WORK?
We’ve all admired the elegance of espresso machines perched on café counters—sleek bodies gleaming under lights, illuminated buttons inviting a press, and steam wands ready to craft perfectly textured milk. With a single touch, it feels like magic delivers your ideal cup. But behind the scenes, a complex system is working hard to make that espresso possible.
Understanding Espresso Machines: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
When you invest in an espresso machine, you’re not just buying a device to brew coffee—you’re getting a system engineered to perform several critical tasks with precision. Water must be heated, pressurized, and delivered to the group head while steam is generated for milk frothing. A solid grasp of these internal processes helps you make a more informed purchasing decision.
The Boiler – The Heart of the Espresso Machine
At the center of every espresso machine is the boiler, a vital component responsible for heating and maintaining pressurized water. Though it may appear simple—a cylindrical chamber often made of copper or stainless steel—it performs complex work. A level sensor monitors water input through an inlet valve, filling the boiler to the correct level. From there, electric heating elements bring the water to temperature, creating the steam and hot water needed for brewing and milk frothing.
Espresso machines come in various boiler configurations: single, dual, or multi-boiler. Some models utilize a heat exchanger system to deliver brewing water at the proper temperature through a separate internal pathway.
Brew Temperature – The Foundation of Great Espresso
One of the most important factors in espresso quality is maintaining a consistent brew temperature. Commercial espresso machines typically operate within a range of 90–96°C. Even slight fluctuations can affect extraction, impacting the flavor, texture, and strength of your shot. Variables such as roast profile, grind size, and coffee type can all influence your ideal brewing temperature. In general, higher temperatures extract more soluble compounds, affecting both taste and balance.
Saturated Group Heads – Enhancing Temperature Stability
Saturated group heads are engineered to ensure maximum temperature consistency during extraction. As an extension of the boiler, they are surrounded by heated water, minimizing heat loss between the boiler and the group head. This leads to more stable brewing conditions and, ultimately, better espresso.
Knowing how these components work together gives you a clearer picture of what to look for in an espresso machine—whether you’re outfitting a small café or managing a high-volume coffee operation.
What Is the Best Brand of Commercial Espresso Machine?
The “best” brand of commercial espresso machine really depends on your business’s specific needs, workflow, and budget. Industry leaders like La Cimbali, La Marzocco, Eversys, Faema, Slayer, Rheavendors, Casadio, and ECM offer a wide variety of models—from high-capacity machines for bustling cafés to compact units perfect for smaller setups. Each brand brings its own strengths to the table, so choosing the right one means weighing factors like automation, temperature control, design, and ease of maintenance.
How Much Does a Commercial Espresso Machine Cost?
Commercial espresso machine prices can vary widely, typically falling between AU$3,000 and AU$50,000. Entry-level models are great for small businesses or lower-traffic venues, while high-end machines built for speed and precision come at a premium. It’s important to align your choice with your business volume and service expectations. A well-chosen machine is not just a cost—it’s an investment in quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction.
What’s the Lifespan of a Commercial Espresso Machine?
With proper care, a commercial espresso machine can last 7 to 10 years, or even longer. These machines are built to endure the rigours of daily café use, but their longevity depends on regular cleaning, timely maintenance, and professional servicing. Staying on top of upkeep will not only extend the life of your equipment but also keep performance and espresso quality at their best.
How to Choose the Right Espresso Machine
With today’s espresso machines packed full of cutting-edge features and technologies, not all models are built alike. Navigating the options can feel overwhelming, especially with so many choices hitting the market. At the core, your goal should be to find a machine that delivers great-tasting espresso, handles your desired volume, and fits within your budget. Here’s a practical guide to help narrow down the decision:
1. Budget
Your budget will shape what’s realistically within reach. While it might be tempting to opt for a cheaper unit, remember that quality espresso machines are long-term investments. Spending a bit more upfront often means greater reliability, better performance, and lower maintenance costs down the line. Prioritise machines that align with your goals rather than just price tags.
2. Size and Group Configuration
Espresso machines vary in size and group head configuration, generally from one to four groups. For cafés with steady foot traffic, a three-group machine offers excellent efficiency. However, if you’re limited by space or electrical capacity, a two-group model might be more suitable without sacrificing much performance.
3. Brew Temperature Control
Consistency in brew temperature is critical for excellent espresso, especially in busy settings. Look for machines that feature dual or multi-boiler systems, PID (proportional-integral-derivative) controls, and saturated group heads. These ensure precise temperature stability shot after shot, which is key for quality and repeat business.
4. Ease of Use
Your machine should support your workflow, not complicate it. While some high-end machines come loaded with advanced features, they might be overkill for smaller operations. Opt for a model that your baristas can operate confidently and efficiently, especially during peak hours.
5. Control Options: Push Button vs. Paddle
Espresso machines typically feature either push-button (volumetric) controls or manual paddle systems. Push buttons offer speed and consistency, ideal for high-volume setups. Paddles, on the other hand, appeal to baristas who prefer a hands-on, artisanal approach. Choose based on your team’s preference and the style of service you want to offer.
6. Shot Timers
A built-in digital shot timer is a useful tool for maintaining consistency. It allows baristas to monitor extraction times, which helps fine-tune brewing and troubleshoot issues quickly. If your budget allows, a timer is well worth the investment.
7. Appearance
While design doesn’t affect espresso quality, it does impact customer perception. A sleek or customised machine can become a showpiece, reinforcing your brand’s identity and elevating the overall coffee bar experience. If visual appeal matters to your clientele, it’s worth considering aesthetics as part of your purchase.
Should You Consider a Lever Espresso Machine?
Lever machines have a timeless, visually striking design and offer a tactile brewing process. However, they require skill and precision, making them better suited for high-end cafés or experienced baristas. Consistency can be more difficult to maintain, so they’re not usually recommended for high-volume, fast-paced environments.
What About Super-Automatic Machines?
Super-automatic espresso machines are built for convenience. With one push, they grind, dose, and brew—ideal for environments with minimal training or staff turnover. That said, they typically fall short in delivering the depth of flavour and texture achieved by manual or semi-automatic machines. If coffee quality is a top priority, they may not be the best fit.
How Good Is Coffee from an Automatic Machine?
The quality of coffee from an automatic espresso machine depends on several factors—most importantly, the machine’s extraction capability and the ingredients you use. Bean-to-cup models that grind fresh for every cup can deliver surprisingly high-quality results, especially when paired with premium beans and fresh milk.
Fresh Bean Machines
Look for features like programmable strength, adjustable milk volume, and multiple heat settings. Some machines even include mobile apps for customising drinks remotely, which is perfect for those who like to dial in their perfect brew.
Extraction Quality
To get café-level coffee from an automatic system, make sure the machine has good pressure and temperature control. Combine this with fresh ingredients, and the results can be impressively close to what you’d get from a skilled barista.
Try Before You Buy
Before making a purchase, try the machine in person if possible. Visiting a showroom or arranging a trial period allows you to sample the coffee firsthand and get a feel for how the machine handles under real conditions.
Extra Features to Look For
Consider versatility—can the machine make lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites? Also think about cleaning cycles, durability, and ease of maintenance, all of which affect long-term satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Other Essentials to Budget For
Don’t forget to set aside part of your budget for accessories and supporting equipment. You’ll need a high-quality burr grinder (ideally espresso-specific), milk jugs, tampers, shot glasses, cups, and cleaning tools. Proper accessories are just as vital to achieving great results as the espresso machine itself.
Need Guidance?
Choosing the right espresso machine can be a major decision—but you don’t have to make it alone. If you’re unsure where to begin or want help matching a machine to your business, I can help you weigh your options.
