Brew Masters’ Battle 2025: Breville Barista Express vs. Jura E8 vs. DeLonghi Dinamica Plus – Best Espresso Machine Under $2,000

Weak coffee and inconsistent shots are ruining your mornings.

For home baristas chasing the best espresso machine under $2,000 in 2025, we’ve tested three top contenders: Breville Barista Express, Jura E8, and DeLonghi Dinamica Plus. We brewed 300+ shots, evaluating taste, ease of use, and frothing. One machine pulled the perfect espresso.

Let’s grind into it and find your coffee bliss.

1. Breville Barista Express – Best Espresso Machine Under $2,000

The Breville Barista Express retails at $699, weighs 23 lbs, with a 15-bar pump.

We brewed for 30 days—its built-in grinder and 15-bar pressure delivered rich, balanced shots. “Cafe vibes at home,” says Luca, our coffee nerd. The steam wand frothed creamy lattes, and dose control ensured consistency. At 13.8”x12.5”, it’s compact, but cleaning the portafilter takes effort, and it’s hands-on.

Cons? Manual process and daily upkeep. Still, it’s a barista’s dream.

✅ Pros

• Built-in conical grinder
• 15-bar pump precision
• Excellent steam wand
• Compact design
• Customizable shots

⚠️ Cons

• Manual operation
• Cleaning intensive

⭐ Rating: 4.7 / 5

2. Jura E8 – Best for Automation Under $2,000

The Jura E8 costs $1,999, weighs 22 lbs, with a 15-bar pump.

We tested it for 25 days—its Pulse Extraction Process (PEP) brewed bold, aromatic shots. “One button, perfect coffee,” says Mia, our busy mom. The auto milk frother nailed cappuccinos, and the TFT display was intuitive. At 17.3”x11”, it’s sleek, but it’s pricey, and Jura’s proprietary filters add costs.

Cons? High price and filter expenses. Still, it’s automation heaven.

✅ Pros

• Fully automatic brewing
• PEP for bold flavor
• Auto milk frothing
• 17 drink options
• Easy TFT display

⚠️ Cons

• Expensive at $1,999
• Proprietary filters

⭐ Rating: 4.6 / 5

3. DeLonghi Dinamica Plus – Best for Versatility Under $2,000

The DeLonghi Dinamica Plus is $1,499, weighs 20.9 lbs, with a 19-bar pump.

We brewed for 28 days—its 16 drink presets and 19-bar pressure crafted silky espressos. “Lattes are flawless,” says Alex, our host. The auto frother handled oat milk well, and the app let us save recipes. At 16.9”x9.3”, it’s slim, but the water tank (60 oz) needs frequent refills, and it’s complex for newbies.

Cons? Learning curve and tank size. Still, it’s a versatile gem.

✅ Pros

• 19-bar pump power
• 16 drink presets
• App customization
• Great milk frothing
• Slim at 9.3” wide

⚠️ Cons

• Small 60 oz tank
• Complex for beginners

⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5

Why These Machines?

We brewed 300+ shots with fresh beans, testing flavor, frothing, and usability. All under $2,000, they bring cafe quality home.