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Despite the somewhat inconsistent reviews we found for espresso machines, experts do agree that $200 is the baseline price for a quality espresso machine. Several espresso machines costing less just don't make the grade. Making espresso requires steam, hot water and pressure -- elements that can quickly damage espresso machines made with less expensive lower-grade plastics and less durable parts.

Special Thanks to ConsumerSearch.com for the reviews above

If you want a tasty cup of espresso with minimal hassle, the Nespresso C100 espresso machine is the machine to buy. While it's relatively inexpensive for a pump-style espresso machine, you will have to buy the company's coffee capsules. But if you want a solid performer and can afford to splurge, the Krups XP7230 espresso machine might be the choice. It did an excellent job frothing milk for cappuccino and other drinks and offered very good convenience.

For a budget, stainless-steel espresso machine, consider the Breville Café Roma espresso machine. Although more expensive espresso machines get much better reviews for consistency and long-term durability, reviews say the Breville Café Roma espresso machine is a good beginner espresso machine, and its stainless steel housing makes this espresso machine a little more attractive than some other less expensive espresso machine that are generally encased in plastic. On the downside, reviews say espresso quality from shot to shot can be inconsistent, and that the grouphead can eventually start to leak.

For a budget, plastic casing espresso machine, consider the Gaggia espresso machine.  Although its plastic external housing doesn't make this espresso machine a head-turner, experts say that the Gaggia espresso machine has many of the same internal components as more expensive Gaggia espresso machines, so espresso quality is very good, especially in this price range. You can also choose to use pods in the Gaggia espresso machine instead of your own grind.

For a budget, plastic casing espresso machine, consider the Nespresso D290 pod espresso machine.  Although some experts scoff, owners love the Nespresso D290 pod espresso machine. The Nespresso works like any other high-quality pump-driven home espresso machine, but it takes away the learning curve by using prepackaged coffee pods. Users don't have to grind beans, measure and tamp the grind, or clean up afterwards. Reviews say that although you are limited to buying the coffee pods (about 50¢ each), the Nespresso D290 espresso machine's high-quality construction and simplicity is its major strength. Espresso taste is excellent and consistent.

For a budget, plastic casing espresso machine, consider the Krups Allegro espresso machine.  Experts say that steam-powered espresso machines can't produce true espresso because they don't use enough pressure to force water through grounds. The Krups Allegro espresso machine  is an inexpensive way to get your coffee fix, however, and you can use it to practice your milk foaming technique and experiment with various grinds and tamping pressures. Connoisseurs reserve machines like the Krups Allegro espresso machine for travel. We read some complaints about durability.