Is an espresso machine cheaper than a coffee shop?
It can be when it replaces enough purchased drinks. The machine and grinder create a large upfront cost, while beans and milk usually drive the ongoing at-home cost.
When a home espresso machine may be worth it
Frequent café customers, households with several coffee drinkers, and people who will keep the equipment for years have more opportunities to spread the purchase price across drinks.
Costs people overlook
Include a capable grinder, accessories, cleaning supplies, repairs, wasted beans while learning, milk, electricity, and water. Also be realistic about how many café visits the machine will actually replace.