Breville Bambino Plus

The r/espresso subreddit's most-recommended entry-level machine, and for good reason. The Bambino Plus heats up in 3 seconds (yes, three), pulls at 9 bars of pressure with a proper 54mm portafilter, and has an automatic steam wand that froths milk to the right temperature with one button. At $400-500, it punches well above its weight class. Pair it with a decent grinder (the Breville Smart Grinder Pro or a 1Zpresso manual) and you're pulling cafe-quality shots. The compact footprint fits on any countertop.