Espresso at home: What you need (and don't need) to get started in 2025 | Barista & Espresso

Espresso at home: easy to start – fun to grow in

Do you dream of About being able to brew café quality at home? Espresso may seem complicated at first, but it doesn't have to be. With the right basic equipment, you'll get started quickly and can gradually improve your technique and equipment. Here is our thoughtful guide for 2025.

✅ What you actually need to start with espresso at home

1. Espresso machine
   This is the heart of your setup. You don't need to go for the most expensive machine right away. Start with a compact semi-automatic model like Profitec GO, Stone Mine or Sage Barista Pro

2. Coffee grinder
   A good espresso grinder is at least as important as the machine. Choose a grinder with micro-steps for grind size. Examples: Eureka Mignon, Timemore or Profitec Drive Grinder.

3. Tamper
   A proper tamper makes a big difference for extraction. You don't need anything advanced at first, but a stable 58 mm tamper is a good investment.

4. Fresh beans
   Espresso requires freshly ground coffee of high quality. Choose beans that are roasted for espresso and experiment with roasting.

5. Basic accessories
   Backflush filter (blind filter), cleaning brush, and a cup scale (0.1 g accuracy) are all you need to get started.

❌ What you do not need (at the beginning)

• Distribution tools

• Electric tamper

• Shot glasses with markings

• Calibrated tampers

• Water filter station (About if you have good tap water)

• Sturdy knock boxes and metal funnels

Save these for later when you feel you want to optimize the experience and work.

☕ 3 setups depending on ambition level

1. Basic level: Espresso at home for under 5,000 SEK

• Manual brewer like Flair Neo or Flair Classic

• Manual grinder (Timemore C2 or Chestnut)

• Simple tamper + freshly roasted beans

• A good scale and a small milk frother

Perfect for curious beginners or students in a small apartment.

2. Intermediate: Barista feel under 15,000 SEK

• Profitec GO or Sage Barista Pro

• Eureka Mignon Classico or Profitec Drive Grinder

• Tamper, blind filter, cleaning brush

• Shot scale, pitcher, cleaning kit

Ideal for you who want consistent espresso with the function for milk drinks.

3. Premium: Café quality under 30,000 SEK

• Rocket Appartamento or Stone Mine

• Eureka Specialita or DF64

• Wiedemann accessories: wooden handle, tamper, tamp station

• Weighing system like Acaia Lunar

This is the level where the machine becomes an interior design object and a topic of conversation.

📦 Ready to get started?

No matter the price range, reach out in the chat and we can help you find the machine and accessories that suit you best. 

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need an expensive machine to get started?
No! Flair, Timemore and other affordable options are more than enough for the first year.

How important is a good grinder?
Extremely important. A bad grinder produces uneven Grind = poorer extraction.

Can I froth milk without an espresso machine?
Yes, with a manual whisk or electric milk frother you can go a long way.

How do I know which machine to choose?
Start with our espresso-guide or contact us for personal help.

Tip: Visit Barista & Espresso to find your first machine, grinder, and accessories – we have solutions for every step on the way to your dream espresso.