Checklist
Espresso Starter Kit
Everything you need to start making espresso at home. Check items off as you go.
Everything you need to start making espresso at home. Check items off as you go.
The heart of your setup. Match to your budget and skill level.
More important than the machine. Don't skip or cheap out here.
Buy from local roasters. Use within 4 weeks of roast date.
Consistency requires measuring. Timer function is helpful.
Match to your portafilter size. 58mm is most common.
For disposing of used pucks. Makes workflow much cleaner.
For breaking up clumps in ground coffee. Improves extraction.
Prevents mess when dosing into portafilter.
Levels grounds before tamping. Some find it helpful, others skip it.
12oz for single drinks, 20oz for multiple. Stainless steel preferred.
See your extraction and diagnose channeling. Great learning tool.
VST, IMS, or similar. More consistent than stock baskets.
For milk temperature if your machine lacks a gauge.
Proper cups enhance the experience. Look for thick walls.
| Level | Machine | Grinder | Accessories | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $200 | $100 | $100 | $400-450 |
| Mid-Range | $400 | $200 | $150 | $750-800 |
| Enthusiast | $700 | $400 | $200 | $1,300-1,400 |
*Does not include ongoing costs like beans (~$40-60/month) and milk.
A $300 machine with a $200 grinder beats a $400 machine with a $100 grinder every time.
Buy essentials first. Add accessories as you learn what you actually need.
No equipment can save stale beans. Find a local roaster or subscribe to fresh delivery.
Quality used machines can save 30-50%. Check r/coffeeswap or local classifieds.
Check your setup requirements, review real user reviews, and calculate your savings before committing.