BUYING GUIDE · UPDATED OCTOBER 2026

A Beginner Espresso Starter Kit

Most beginners buy a machine and forget the grinder. Here are three complete setups, with both halves paired.

By the Pull & Steep team · 6 min read

This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through one, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This guide is based on manufacturer specs, expert reviews, and owner feedback, not our own lab testing.

Good espresso needs three things: a machine, a grinder, and fresh beans. The machine gets all the attention, but the grinder usually decides how good the coffee is. Here are three complete setups at different budgets, with approximate total costs based on current Amazon prices.

Kit 1: The cheapest way to try it (about $230)

Casabrews CM5418 (around $140) + Kingrinder K2 (around $88). This is the lowest-risk way to find out whether you enjoy making espresso. The honest trade-off is that hand grinders at this price are a compromise for espresso, which needs very fine, consistent grinds. Check owner reviews for how the K2 performs at fine settings. If you end up loving the hobby, the grinder is the first thing you'll want to upgrade.

See the Casabrews → See the Kingrinder K2 →

Kit 2: Easy lattes (about $700)

Breville Bambino Plus (around $500) + Baratza Encore ESP (around $200). The Bambino Plus heats up fast and textures milk automatically, and the Encore ESP is the version of Baratza's popular grinder built to handle espresso. This is the pairing that costs the least effort every morning. One caution: the Encore ESP averages about 3.9 stars on Amazon, lower than the standard Encore, so skim owner reviews before you buy. Read our Bambino Plus review.

See the Bambino Plus → See the Encore ESP →

Kit 3: Learn it properly (about $650)

Gaggia Classic Pro (around $450) + Baratza Encore ESP (around $200). The Gaggia asks more of you, and it rewards you with a machine you can keep improving for years. Pairing it with a real espresso grinder is what lets it perform. Read our Gaggia review.

See the Gaggia → See the Encore ESP →

What not to do

Don't pair a great machine with pre-ground coffee, and don't buy a standard Baratza Encore for espresso. The standard model is a fine grinder for drip and pour-over, but it isn't built for espresso, which is what the Encore ESP is for.

Don't skip the small stuff. A kitchen scale, a milk pitcher, and fresh beans from a local roaster make a noticeable difference.

Not sure which kit suits you? Start with our guide to machines under $500, or read what the specs actually mean.

Prices and availability change. Last checked October 2026.