The Best Espresso Machines with a Built-In Grinder
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A machine with a built-in grinder saves counter space and saves you from choosing a separate espresso grinder, which is the step that confuses most new buyers.
The trade-off: the grinder and machine are one unit, so if one part fails you lose both, and dedicated grinders usually offer finer adjustment. For most home users, the convenience wins.
Our picks at a glance
- De'Longhi La Specialista Arte: Best mid-range grinder combo
The picks
Built-in grinder at a mid-range tier, with a simple layout.
Watch out: Smaller 51 mm portafilter and fewer advanced controls.
Side by side
| Machine | Type | Grinder | Milk | Price tier* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| De'Longhi La Specialista Arte | Semi-automatic with built-in grinder | Yes, conical burr | Manual steam wand | Mid-range |
*Price tier is a rough guide. Click through for today's price on Amazon.
Tips before you buy
Check the height
The bean hopper sits on top, so measure the space under your kitchen cupboards before you buy.
Use fresh beans
A built-in grinder only helps if the beans are fresh. Look for a roast date and use beans within a few weeks of it.
Clean the grinder
Old coffee oils build up. Brush out the burrs regularly and avoid very oily dark roasts in automatic machines.
How we chose
We compared manufacturer specifications, design features and patterns in published owner feedback. We do not accept payment from brands for placement. More about how we work.
FAQ
Is a built-in grinder as good as a separate one?
For most home users, yes. Separate espresso grinders usually offer finer adjustment and can be upgraded on their own, which matters more to enthusiasts.
Which all-in-one heats up fastest?
Of the machines here, the Breville Barista Pro and Barista Touch use the ThermoJet system, which is ready in seconds.
Bean-to-cup or semi-automatic with grinder?
Bean-to-cup (like the Philips 3200) does everything for you. A semi-automatic with grinder (like the Barista Express) needs you to tamp and steam, but gives more control and usually better espresso.