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De'Longhi · Espresso machine

De'Longhi Stilosa

The cheapest espresso machine worth buying. Simple, honest, no-nonsense — real espresso for around $140.

By Dana WhitfieldUpdated October 2026
Best Budget Pick
De'Longhi Stilosa
$139.00
7.8/ 10

Why we love it

At around $140, the Stilosa is the floor for a real espresso machine. It has a 15-bar pump, a stainless steel boiler, and a manual steam wand — everything you need to make actual espresso, not just strong coffee. There's no screen, no menus, no complexity — just a dial and two lights. The pressurized baskets mean you can use pre-ground coffee and still get decent crema. It's not going to compete with machines costing 3x more, but it does exactly what it promises: it makes real espresso, it teaches you the basics, and it costs less than a month of coffee shop visits. The perfect first machine for anyone who isn't sure they want to commit yet.

Pros

  • Unbeatable price — real espresso for around $140
  • Simple dial control — no learning curve for the machine itself
  • Stainless steel boiler for durability
  • Compact and lightweight — easy to store or move
  • Pressurized baskets work well with pre-ground coffee

Cons

  • Basic steam wand produces decent but not silky foam
  • No PID — temperature consistency isn't as tight
  • Plastic portafilter feels cheap compared to pricier machines
  • Small 1-liter water tank

Specs

Type
Espresso machine
Brews
Espresso
Power
Electric
Counter space
Compact
Suits
Beginner
Steam wand
Manual
Heater
Boiler
Shot
You stop it

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