Free tool · no signup
Setup Cost Builder
"How much does this actually cost?" — the question every beginner asks. Pick your machine, grinder, and accessories below and watch the running total. Prices are typical US street prices as of 2026.
1 · Machine (pick one)
2 · Grinder (pick one)
3 · Accessories (pick any)
What the badges mean
- Under $500: a genuinely good starter setup — this is where most beginners should aim.
- Under $1,000: enthusiast territory — better grinder, better machine, or both.
- Over $1,000: prosumer gear. Wonderful, but make sure you're buying it because you'll use it, not because a forum told you to.
Want our hand-picked combinations instead of building your own? See espresso setups by budget for complete $300, $500, $1,000, and $1,500 shopping lists — then check what the setup earns back with the savings calculator.
The paid shortcut — totally optional
Want the whole process explained with pictures?
This tool is free, and it always will be. If you'd also like the full walkthrough — your first shot from start to finish, a flowchart for when shots taste off, milk basics, and a cheat sheet for the fridge — that's the 15-page Quick-Start Guide. It's $6, it downloads instantly, and there's nothing else to buy afterward.
Cost Builder FAQ
Do I really need all the accessories?
No. The non-negotiables are a scale and fresh beans. A WDT tool is the best $12 you'll spend, but a tamper, pitcher, and knock box can wait until you know you're sticking with the hobby.
Can I skip the grinder and use pre-ground coffee?
With a pressurized basket (included with beginner machines like the Dedica and Bambino), pre-ground coffee works acceptably. But a grinder is the single biggest upgrade you can make — budget for one as your first addition.
Are these prices current?
They're typical US street prices as of 2026. Sales move them around constantly — treat the total as a planning number, and verify each price before you buy.