
Is a 20 Bar Espresso Machine Good?
Espresso extracts at about 9 bars at the puck, so what does a 20-bar rating actually buy you? Here is what the number really measures, why marketing loves it, and what to look at instead.
Independent reviews of espresso machines, grinders, beans, and accessories for people who want better decaf shots at home.
Manual, automatic, and prosumer reviews.
The most important tool for better espresso.
Ethically sourced, specialty roasted beans.
We buy our own equipment and spend hundreds of hours testing. No sponsored bias.
Start with the standouts: a budget AMZCHEF pick that is already helping readers, plus proven upgrade machines for serious home espresso.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through our links costs you nothing extra and helps support independent reviews.

Premium
Delivers third-wave specialty coffee using Breville's four-keys formula with an integrated conical burr grinder, low-pressure pre-infusion, and PID temperature control. The ThermoJet heating system reaches brew temperature in about 3 seconds, and the automatic steam wand plus touchscreen workflow makes milk drinks easy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through this link costs you nothing extra.

Mid-Range
A modern update of an Italian classic, housed in solid steel and made in Italy. It delivers 9-bar extractions through a 58mm commercial portafilter, plus a three-way solenoid valve and commercial steam wand for manual milk texturing.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through this link costs you nothing extra.

Budget
A compact machine using an Italian 20-bar pump for crema-focused extraction. It offers PID temperature control, fast preheat, and a 360-degree rotating stainless steel steam wand for milk frothing.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through this link costs you nothing extra.

High-End
The dual boiler powerhouse that brings commercial stability to your kitchen. Features PID control, pressure gauge, and soft infusion.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through this link costs you nothing extra.
Latest brewing guides and gear reviews.

Espresso extracts at about 9 bars at the puck, so what does a 20-bar rating actually buy you? Here is what the number really measures, why marketing loves it, and what to look at instead.

A decaf-first look at the compact Breville Bambino Plus: why the 3-second heat-up makes it the best small espresso machine for evening decaf drinkers.

Decaf now costs as much as the good stuff, and bags keep shrinking. Four structural causes explain it, none of them are your roaster gouging you, and one is easing in 2027.
Follow us for more practical espresso and decaf insights delivered to your inbox.