There are two perfect times to buy an espresso maker: Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. These days see the biggest sales of the year, especially for the world's most popular models. The Breville Barista Express and the Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro, both top sellers, are enjoying massive early Prime Day deals, with prices up to $200 off list price.

These machines are not just gadgets; they're part of a coffee revolution that’s transforming at-home brewing into a nuanced art. The Breville Barista Express is a semiautomatic espresso machine that serves as a one-stop shop for milk-frothy drinks, with a built-in grinder and steaming wand, making it reliable and user-friendly.

WIRED has long recommended the Barista Express, praising its mix of value, reliability, precision, and ease of use. This year’s $200 discount during Amazon Prime Day 2026 represents one of the lowest prices in years—a deal that makes it hard to resist. The machine's longevity is proven; WIRED senior gear editor Julian Chokkattu has been using his Barista Express for seven years, and it remains in great condition.

Ninja’s flagship semiautomatic espresso machine, the Luxe Cafe Pro, also benefits from a $150 discount, matching the lowest price ever seen. Ninja’s entry into the semiautomatic market was initially met with skepticism, but these models have impressed with their ability to make excellent espresso with minimal effort. The Pro includes a useful bean assist function and a manual tamping lever, which are rare at this price point.

While Breville is tried and tested, Ninja’s devices come with some minor drawbacks, such as the 'drip coffee' function being best left unused. However, for latte lovers, the milk frother on Ninja’s machine stands out as one of the best among semiautomatic espresso machines I’ve encountered.