Free tool
Espresso Setup Builder
Pick a budget and get a matched machine, grinder and accessories list, priced with each maker's own list price and the date we checked it.
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Build your setup
Loading the builder. If nothing appears, use the budget table below: it lists the same matches.
Matched setups by budget
Built from our editorial picks first, then the rest of our catalog. Maker U.S. list prices only.
| Budget | Matched setup | Total list price | Price checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500 | Gaggia Espresso Evolution ($299.99) + Breville Dose Control Pro ($159.95) | $459.94 | Oct 17, 2026 |
| $1,000 | Breville Bambino Plus ($499.95) + Baratza Sette 270 ($399.95) | $899.90 | Oct 17, 2026 |
| $1,500 | Gaggia Classic Pro E24 ($549.00) + Baratza Sette 270 ($399.95) | $948.95 | Oct 17, 2026 |
| $2,500 | Lelit MaraX ($1,699.95) + Lelit William ($599.95) | $2,299.90 | Oct 17, 2026 |
| $4,000 | Lelit Bianca ($2,999.95) + Lelit William ($599.95) | $3,599.90 | Oct 17, 2026 |
About 8% of each budget (up to $150) is held back for accessories, because we do not yet have checked accessory prices. Retailer prices replace list prices once affiliate feeds are approved.
How the matching works
- Only machines and grinders with a published U.S. list price on the maker's own site are used; each price shows the date we read it.
- Our buying-guide picks get a nudge, and the grinder is kept in proportion to the machine. A machine with a built-in grinder counts as a full setup.
- "Lots" of milk drinks favors dual boiler and heat exchanger machines, which brew and steam at the same time; below their price, it favors the strongest single boiler and thermoblock steamers that fit.
- The table below uses the default "some milk drinks" answer.
- Accessories are sized to the machine: the tamper matches the portafilter diameter from the maker's specs.
- We do not bench-test any of this gear. Picks rest on maker specs and list prices.
Next: work out your cost per shot and payback, check recalls before buying used, or set a price drop alert.