10 Best Pod Espresso Machines 2026 in the United States

The De'Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a versatile pod espresso machine great for those who want both coffee and espresso options in one device. It uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which are widely available and come in various flavors and sizes, making it easy to find a blend you like. The machine can brew four cup sizes, including single and double espresso, and even iced coffee, which adds to its flexibility. It heats up quickly in about 25 seconds and has an energy-saving automatic shut-off feature, which is convenient and efficient.

The included Aeroccino milk frother is a big plus, allowing you to make creamy hot or cold milk froth easily for lattes and cappuccinos without needing a separate device. The water tank has a moderate capacity, suitable for typical home use but may require frequent refills if you brew multiple cups in a row. The machine’s size is compact enough to fit on most kitchen counters without taking up too much space, and its modern gray design is sleek and unobtrusive.

On the downside, cleaning isn't dishwasher safe, so some parts need to be hand washed, which could be less convenient if you use it daily. Also, while the machine offers good pressure and brewing quality typical of Nespresso systems, it’s not designed for custom pressure settings, so if you’re particular about espresso pressure control, this might be a limitation. This machine is well suited for coffee lovers who want quick, easy, and consistent espresso or coffee with the added benefit of a milk frother, but it requires some manual cleaning and offers limited pressure customization.

The CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine is designed for those who love espresso-based drinks and want to make them at home. With a professional 20 bar pressure system and a powerful boiler, it offers high-quality extraction for a rich and fragrant coffee experience. The built-in pressure gauge is useful for making adjustments according to your taste preferences. The machine's compact and stylish stainless steel design fits well in any kitchen, making it practical for home or office use.

The 34oz removable water tank allows you to brew multiple cups without frequent refilling, and the semi-automatic operation mode simplifies the brewing process. It also includes a steam milk frother for creating creamy microfoam milk, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos, and allows for milk foam art, enhancing the entire experience for aspiring baristas. However, the machine does require cooling down after frothing milk to prevent overheating, which might be inconvenient for some users.

Cleaning the machine is straightforward due to its detachable components, but some users might find managing the pressure settings challenging. Despite these minor drawbacks, this espresso machine is a solid choice for those looking for a durable, stylish, and efficient machine to make a variety of espresso drinks at home.

The Nespresso CitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De'Longhi offers a sleek, elegant design that fits nicely in most kitchens without taking up too much space. Its compact size and stylish black finish make it a good choice for those who appreciate looks as much as functionality. It uses Nespresso Original capsules, which are widely available and allow for a quick, mess-free espresso experience. The machine has a water tank capacity that supports several cups before needing a refill, making it suitable for daily use.

While it doesn’t come with a built-in milk frother, you can add milk frothing separately if you enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos. The machine operates fully automatically with simple button controls, so it’s easy to use even if you’re new to espresso makers. Cleaning is straightforward since the tank is removable, but note that the machine itself isn’t dishwasher safe.

It delivers consistent pressure for good espresso extraction, although it may not match the power of some larger, more professional machines. This model is best suited for individual espresso lovers or small households looking for a reliable, stylish, and easy-to-use pod espresso machine without extra milk frothing features.