Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and many of us want to impress guests with café‑quality espresso or cappuccino. Fortunately, WIRED has identified four espresso machines that are already discounted for early Black Friday shoppers. These machines have been tested by WIRED reviewers, so you know the savings come with proven performance.
Key takeaways
- Four WIRED‑tested espresso machines are on sale now, with discounts ranging from 10% to 29%.
- Prices vary from $400 to $1,799, covering semi‑automatic, dual‑boiler, and pod‑based options.
- Each machine suits a different user: daily commuters, design lovers, traditionalists, and home baristas who want an all‑in‑one grinder.
- Sales are currently limited to specific colourways for some models (e.g., Breville Barista Express only in black and stainless).
- Buy now to lock in the discount before standard Black Friday pricing kicks in.
What’s on sale
| Machine | Original price | Sale price | Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Barista Express (semi‑automatic) | $700 | $500 | 29% off |
| Meraki Tech Espresso Machine (dual‑boiler, with grinder) | $1,999 | $1,799 | 10% off |
| Diletta Mio Espresso Machine (traditional, PID‑controlled) | $1,409 | $1,209 | 14% off |
| Casabrews 5700 PRO (semi‑automatic with onboard grinder) | $450 | $400 | 11% off |
Breville Barista Express – The Reliable Workhorse
WIRED has long praised the Breville Barista Express, and it remains a bestseller because of its durability and intuitive design. It’s a semi‑automatic machine that lets you grind beans, tamp, and pull shots using the same unit. The current sale is limited to the black and stainless steel finishes.
Who should consider it? If you stop at coffee shops every morning, the cost‑per‑cup savings can quickly outweigh the $500 price tag. Its built‑in grinder and straightforward controls also make it a solid entry point for newcomers who want a hands‑on experience without a steep learning curve.
Meraki Tech Espresso Machine – Dual‑Boiler Luxury
The Meraki Tech model is described as a “steampunk gasworks of a thing.” It features dual boilers, allowing you to steam milk while pulling a shot—a true advantage for latte art or cappuccino fans. An onboard conical burr grinder adds convenience, though WIRED notes that the descaling process is more complex than average.
Who should consider it? Design‑savvy home baristas who value simultaneous steaming and brewing will appreciate the dual‑boiler layout. Expect a higher price point, even after the $1,799 sale price, but the feature set justifies the expense for serious espresso enthusiasts.
Diletta Mio Espresso Machine – Classic Italian Craft
For those who prefer a traditional, analog feel, the Diletta Mio offers a robust build and a PID temperature controller that stabilises brew temperature. While it lacks a built‑in grinder, its solid construction and Italian heritage make it a favourite among purists.
Who should consider it? Users who already own a high‑quality grinder or who plan to buy one separately will benefit from the Diletta’s precise temperature control and timeless aesthetics.
Casabrews 5700 PRO – Simple Semi‑Automatic with Grinder
Pete Cottell, a former barista and WIRED reviewer, uses the Casabrews 5700 PRO at home. It’s a single‑boiler semi‑automatic unit with an onboard grinder and easy‑to‑use controls. Because it’s a single‑boiler design, you cannot steam milk while pulling a shot, but the machine’s simplicity makes it a solid choice for beginners.
Who should consider it? Home users who want a straightforward espresso experience without the complexity of dual boilers. The $400 price after discount is the most affordable option among the four.
What this means for you
These early‑season discounts give you the chance to purchase a high‑quality espresso machine at a lower cost before the flood of Black Friday deals. Here’s how to act:
- Check availability now. The sales are tied to specific colourways and inventory can disappear quickly.
- Compare your brewing habits. If you need simultaneous milk steaming, the Meraki Tech is the only dual‑boiler option.
- Plan for accessories. The Diletta Mio requires a separate grinder; the other three include grinders.
- Watch for warranty details. All four models are covered by the manufacturers’ standard warranties, but confirm any extended coverage offered by the retailer.
What happens next
Standard Black Friday pricing will arrive around November 27, but early shoppers can lock in the current discounts now. Keep an eye on WIRED’s full Black Friday deals page for additional espresso‑related offers, such as accessories (milk frothers, grinders) that may also be discounted.
After you purchase, give yourself at least a week to practice pulling shots before your Thanksgiving guests arrive. The extra time will let you fine‑tune grind size, tamp pressure, and milk texture, ensuring you serve café‑level drinks from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Frequently asked questions
Which early Black Friday espresso machine has the biggest discount?
The Breville Barista Express is 29% off, dropping from $700 to $500.
Do any of the discounted machines include a built‑in grinder?
Yes, the Breville Barista Express, Meraki Tech, and Casabrews 5700 PRO all have onboard grinders; the Diletta Mio does not.
Can I steam milk while pulling a shot with the Casabrews 5700 PRO?
No, it is a single‑boiler machine, so you cannot steam milk simultaneously.
Are the early Black Friday espresso deals limited to certain colors?
The Breville Barista Express sale applies only to the black and stainless steel colorways.
When will regular Black Friday prices start?
Standard Black Friday pricing typically begins around November 27, after the early‑deal period.
