AnZa Espresso Machines: A Guide to Design, Price, and Performance

AnZa is a company known for producing espresso machines that are as much about aesthetics as they are about coffee. Their products feature unconventional materials like concrete and Corian, positioning them in the premium, design-focused segment of the market.¹⁴ These machines are treated more like sculptures or furniture, with a focus on tactile experience and artistic expression. This emphasis on design has earned Anza a spot in GQ’s “best machines” list.¹¹

While not budget-friendly, AnZa’s machines are design-driven and normally cost far less than the multi-boiler prosumer models that start around $2,000. Every version uses the same core components: a 300 ml stainless-steel boiler, PID temperature control, a 15-bar ULKA pump, and a 58 mm portafilter.^{8 9} Prices for new models range from approximately $900 to $1,500, making the AnZa look accessible for a home barista without spending commercial-machine money.^{1 2 5 7 11}

AnZa Models: A Detailed Look

The core of Anza's offering includes two primary models, the Concrete and the White, with a newer, more advanced "R2" version also available. These machines are priced at a premium, reflecting their unique materials and design philosophy.

Anza White

The Anza White offers a minimalist aesthetic, featuring a shell made of powder-coated steel panels or off-white Corian, a solid, non-porous surface material. This model presents a cleaner, more streamlined appearance with brass, porcelain, and wood accents.¹⁴

• Materials: Powder-coated steel or Corian shell, steel frame, brass top plate, glass water tank.
• Pump: 15 bar ULKA pump with a pressure gauge.
• Boiler: Low nickel 304 stainless steel boiler (300 ml).
• Temperature Control: PID controlled brewing temperature set to 199.4°F (93°C).
• Portafilter: 58mm wooden portafilter included.

Anza Concrete

The Anza Concrete espresso machine is notable for its brutalist design, featuring a hand-cast concrete shell that gives each machine a unique surface finish. It is a statement piece for a kitchen, with a steel frame, a glass water tank, and porcelain and brass details.⁶

• Materials: Hand-cast concrete shell, steel frame, brass drip tray, glass water tank.
• Pump: 15 bar ULKA pump with a pressure gauge.
• Boiler: Low nickel 304 stainless steel boiler (300 ml).
• Temperature Control: PID controlled brewing temperature set to 199.4°F (93°C).
• Portafilter Size: 58mm.

Anza R2 (Second Generation)

The Anza R2 is a newer release that builds upon the original models, offering more advanced features not present in the standard versions. It is available in a concrete finish and is priced higher than the original machines.¹⁵

• Materials: Hand-cast concrete with refined, sharper mold lines, porcelain, and matte black powder-coated steel.
• Upgraded Features: Instant steam, removable water tank, pre-infusion, adjustable brew pressure, quieter pump, and updated electronics.^{2 15}

Price and Retailer Comparison

The following table provides a snapshot of various purchasing options for AnZa machines, highlighting the differences in price and availability across various retailers.

*Prices recorded July 2025; shipping and tax excluded.

Detailed Purchasing Options

1. AnZa White (Direct)
   • Price: $895¹
   • Why choose it? It is the least expensive new AnZa, includes a 58 mm wooden portafilter and full warranty.
2. AnZa White (Sale Price)
   • Price: $860 during seasonal promotion².
   • Good deal? Yes—identical hardware to the full-price White for $35 less.
3. AnZa White (Industrialkonzept EU)
   • Price: €1 070 (about $1 150)³.
   • Extras: EU power cord and CE documentation. Ideal for European buyers who want local support.
4. AnZa Espresso Maker (Uncrate)
   • Price: $1 220⁴.
   • Finish: Off-white Corian with brass accents.
   • Perk: Ships within 24 hours; Uncrate offers hassle-free returns on most items.
5. AnZa Concrete (Direct)
   • Price: $1 500⁷.
   • Shell: Hand-cast concrete; every unit has a unique surface texture.
6. AnZa Concrete (Arjé)
   • Price: $1 365⁶.
   • Special touches: Porcelain steam knob, grey body, North-America voltage⁶.
7. AnZa Concrete (Uncrate)
   • Price: $1 400⁵.
   • Good for: Buyers wanting concrete but quicker delivery than the factory site offers.
8. AnZa Concrete R2 (Pre-order)
   • Price: $1 500².
   • What’s new: Sharper mold lines, quieter pump, and updated electronics, according to the maker.
9. AnZa Concrete R2 (EU Wait-list)
   • Status: Sold out; wait-list open³.
   • Expected price: ≈€1 300 once restocked.
   • Tip: Join the list early; EU allocations are limited each run.
10. Used AnZa White (Market Price)
    • Typical price: Around $750 for lightly used units¹².
    • Where to look: Home-barista forums, r/espresso classifieds.
    • Check list: Ask for brew-pressure reading and proof of regular descaling before buying.

Maintenance, Reliability, and Value

Maintenance & Reliability Snapshot

• The single-boiler system heats fast (≈5 min) but cannot brew and steam simultaneously. You must wait between brewing and steaming.^{8 9}
• All models rely on the widely available 58 mm portafilter, so baskets and accessories are easy to source.⁹
• Concrete shells can stain; wipe spills quickly and re-seal yearly with food-safe wax.¹⁰
• Internal parts are standard Italian components, so most repair shops can service them.^{9 11}

Value and Who It's For

If your budget is tight, a pre-owned White at about $750 delivers the same cup quality as a new unit.¹² Users focused purely on espresso performance (not appearance) may prefer budget stainless machines like the Gaggia Classic Pro at $449, but they lose the sculptural aesthetic. Conversely, if you want a dual-boiler workflow, expect to spend at least twice the price of any model here.

Affordable Espresso Machine Alternatives

The term "affordable" in the context of espresso machines typically refers to products priced under a few hundred dollars.¹⁶ As AnZa's machines are positioned significantly above this range, they do not cater to the budget market segment. For those seeking quality espresso on a more accessible budget, this guide explores top affordable espresso machines from other reputable brands that deliver excellent value and performance.

Top 10 Affordable Espresso Machines

1. Breville Bambino

   The Breville Bambino is a compact and powerful machine that offers cafe-quality results at a lower price point. It is recognized for its fast heat-up time and excellent steam wand, making it a strong choice for those who enjoy milk-based drinks. While it doesn't include a built-in grinder, its performance and small footprint make it a highly recommended option for those with limited space who already own a quality grinder.

   • Key Features: Fast heat-up, powerful steam wand, compact design.
   • Pros: Produces cafe-quality espresso, excellent for steaming milk, small and lightweight.
   • Cons: Does not have a built-in grinder, included tamper is of lower quality.

2. De'Longhi Stilosa

   The De'Longhi Stilosa is an entry-level machine that provides a good starting point for those new to espresso. It features a 15-bar pump and a stainless steel boiler for consistent performance. While its construction includes a lot of plastic, it is sturdy and capable of producing decent espresso shots and steamed milk. Its affordability and ease of use make it a popular choice for beginners.

   • Key Features: 15-bar pump, manual milk frother, compact size.
   • Pros: Affordable, easy for beginners to use, sturdy build for the price.
   • Cons: Smaller filter baskets can result in weaker shots, some plastic components.

3. Flair Classic

   The Flair Classic is a manual espresso maker that gives the user complete control over the brewing process. It is known for producing excellent quality espresso with beautiful crema. This machine is portable and comes with a convenient travel case, making it a great option for camping or travel. However, it has a steep learning curve and requires a separate grinder and kettle.

   • Key Features: Manual lever press, portable design, high-quality construction.
   • Pros: Excellent espresso quality, highly portable, durable build.
   • Cons: Steep learning curve, requires separate grinder and hot water source, smaller filter baskets.

4. Wacaco Picopresso

   The Wacaco Picopresso is an ultra-compact and portable espresso maker designed for travel. It features a standard 18-gram, 52mm stainless steel basket, allowing for the use of a proper espresso grind. While it requires some practice to master, it is capable of producing high-quality espresso shots with noticeable crema. Its durable, mostly metal construction makes it a reliable companion for coffee on the go.

   • Key Features: Ultra-portable, 18-gram basket, manual pump.
   • Pros: Excellent espresso quality for its size, very compact and durable, uses standard basket size.
   • Cons: Requires fine-tuning of grind and pressure, can be difficult to pump.

5. Gaggia Classic Evo Pro

   The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is a well-regarded machine that is often recommended for aspiring home baristas. It is known for its robust build and the ability to be modified, offering a platform for users to grow their skills. It provides a solid entry into the world of high-quality home espresso.

   • Key Features: Commercial-style components, modifiable design.
   • Pros: Capable of producing excellent espresso, durable construction.
   • Cons: May require some modifications for optimal performance.

6. Casabrews 5700Pro

   The Casabrews 5700Pro is an all-in-one machine that includes a built-in grinder. It features a 20-bar pressure pump and an LCD display for ease of use. Users appreciate its stylish design and the quality of the espresso it produces, though there can be a learning curve with the grinder and steam wand.

   • Key Features: Built-in grinder, 20-bar pump, LCD display, PID temperature control.
   • Pros: All-in-one convenience, stylish design, produces rich espresso.
   • Cons: Learning curve for grinder and steam wand, some users note inconsistent crema.

7. Sowtech Espresso Machine 3.5 Bar

   This Sowtech model is a steam-driven machine that is very easy on the budget. Its 3.5-bar pressure is not sufficient for "true" espresso, but it produces a decent, strong coffee that can be used for lattes and cappuccinos. It is a good choice for those who are new to espresso and want a simple, low-cost machine.

   • Key Features: 3.5-bar steam pressure, simple one-knob operation, includes milk frother.
   • Pros: Very affordable, easy to use, lifetime warranty.
   • Cons: Lower pressure does not produce true espresso, can result in a more bitter taste.

8. IMUSA USA 4-Cup Espresso Maker

   Similar to the Sowtech, the IMUSA is a steam-driven machine that is simple and affordable. Its typical price point and functionality place it in the budget category suitable for beginners who want to make espresso-like drinks and steamed milk without a significant investment.

   • Key Features: 4-cup capacity, steam-driven, milk frother.
   • Pros: Low price, simple to operate.
   • Cons: Does not produce authentic espresso due to low pressure.

9. De'Longhi EC155

   The De'Longhi EC155 is a compact and affordable pump espresso machine. It can use both ground coffee and ESE pods, offering flexibility. While it may struggle with very fine grinds and lightly roasted beans, it performs well for traditional dark roasts and milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes. It's a solid choice for beginners looking for a bargain.

   • Key Features: 15-bar pump, dual-function filter holder, swivel jet frother.
   • Pros: Affordable, easy for beginners, consistent for milk drinks.
   • Cons: Can have trouble with fine grinds, inconsistent temperature control.

10. Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

    This Mr. Coffee model is a semi-automatic machine that simplifies the process of making lattes and cappuccinos with its one-touch controls. It includes an automatic milk frother, making it very user-friendly for those new to espresso drinks. While it may not satisfy espresso purists, it offers great convenience for a low price.

    • Key Features: One-touch control panel, automatic milk frother, removable reservoirs.
    • Pros: Very easy to use, convenient for lattes and cappuccinos, affordable.
    • Cons: Lacks manual control over milk frothing, espresso quality may be weak.

Comparison of Affordable Alternatives

Works Cited

1. AnZa Coffee – “AnZa White Espresso Machine” product page
2. AnZa Coffee – Pre-order shop banner (“White $860 / Concrete R2 $1 500”)
3. Industrialkonzept – AnZa Concrete and White listings, EU pricing & wait-list
4. Uncrate Supply – “Anza Espresso Maker $1 220”
5. Uncrate Supply – “Anza Concrete Espresso Machine $1 400”
6. Arjé – “Anza Concrete Espresso Machine $1 365”
7. AnZa Coffee – “AnZa Concrete” shop listing $1 500
8. Industrialkonzept – Specification sheet (boiler, pump, PID)
9. Kickstarter FAQ – Detailed spec sheet for early production models
10. CoffeeSnobs forum – User review on internals and maintenance
11. GQ Magazine – Best Espresso Machines feature (AnZa $1 400)
12. Reddit r/espresso – Discussion of used White selling under $800
13. YouTube review – “The $1 220 AnZa Espresso Machine” hands-on impressions
14. Remodelista - Design Sleuth: The AnZa Espresso Machine
15. AnzaCoffee - AnZa R2 Concrete
16. The Spruce Eats - These Budget Espresso Machines Deliver Café-Quality Coffee
17. CoffeeGeek - Best Budget Espresso Machines for 2024
18. Home Coffee Expert - Flair Classic Review
19. BIKEPACKING.com - Wacaco Picopresso Review
20. Serious Eats - Wacaco Picopresso Espresso Maker Review
21. TechGearLab - Flair Classic Review
22. The Coffee Orb - Review - The Picopresso by Wacaco
23. TechGearLab - Breville Bambino Review
24. Home Coffee Expert - DeLonghi EC155 Review
25. TechGearLab - De'Longhi Stilosa Review
26. Home Coffee Expert - Sowtech Espresso Machine Review
27. Best Buy - Customer Reviews: De'Longhi Stilosa
28. Black Ink Coffee - Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker Review
29. Food & Wine - The 3 Best Budget Espresso Machines, Tested & Reviewed
30. The Home Depot - Reviews for CASABREWS 5700-Pro
31. CNET - Delonghi EC155 Pump Espresso review
32. Top Ten Reviews - Casabrews 5700Pro Espresso Machine review
33. Walmart - Sowtech Espresso Machine 3.5 Bar - Customer Reviews
34. TechRadar - Casabrews 5700Pro review
35. Tom's Guide - Wacaco Picopresso review
36. Approved Coffee - Casabrews 5700 Pro Review
37. Home Coffee Expert - Wacaco Picopresso Review
38. Coffeeness - DeLonghi EC155 Review
39. Black Ink Coffee - Delonghi EC155 Review
40. Coffee Blog - Best Cheap Espresso Machines in the UK
41. Coffee Kev - Best Espresso Machines in 2025
42. Serious Eats - The 12 Best Espresso Machines for Every Budget
43. The Coffee Chronicler - Delonghi Stilosa: Test & Hands-On Review
44. Coffeeness - Casabrews 5700 Pro Review
45. Coffee Kev - Breville Bambino vs Bambino Plus
46. Reddit - SOWTECH Espresso Coffee Machine REVIEW
47. Coffeeness - Flair Espresso Maker Review
48. Tom's Guide - This $149 De'Longhi espresso machine...
49. The Coffee Chronicler - Flair Espresso Maker Review
50. The Spruce Eats - These Budget Espresso Machines Deliver Café-Quality Coffee
51. Coffeeness - DeLonghi Stilosa Review
52. Reddit - Recieved a DeLonghi EC155 as my first espresso machine.
53. YouTube - Breville Bambino Review: Is It Worth It?
54. The Coffee Chronicler - On a Budget? My Favorite Espresso Machines around $100
55. The Kitchn - I Tried Breville's Most Affordable Espresso Machine
56. Caffeine Craze - Sowtech Espresso Machine: Is it Right for You?
57. TechRadar - The best espresso machine 2025
58. Tom's Guide - Best espresso machine 2025
59. Reddit - Breville Bambino (non-Plus) PSA + Review
60. Home Coffee Expert - Flair Espresso Maker Review
61. The Spruce Eats - Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Review
62. Good Housekeeping - 9 Best Espresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed
63. The Takeout - 11 Best Beginner-Friendly Espresso Machines, According To Reviews
64. Coffeeness - Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ Review
65. Mr. Coffee® - Mr. Coffee® 4-Shot Steam Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte Maker
66. Real Homes - Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker review