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 Nespresso Vertuo Next by Breville is a convenient pod-based espresso and coffee machine designed for users who enjoy a variety of coffee drinks quickly and with minimal fuss. It offers a decent water tank capacity of 1.1 liters, which is enough for several cups before needing a refill, making it suitable for single users or small households. The machine uses Nespresso's Vertuo pods, compatible with different sizes including espresso and larger coffee cups, providing versatility in brewing options.

It heats up fast—ready in about 25 seconds—and has programmable buttons for four cup sizes, which is great for customizing your drink. An added bonus is the included Aeroccino milk frother, allowing you to make creamy hot or cold milk froth easily, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. The design is compact and stylish with a modern gray finish, fitting well in most kitchens without taking up too much space. Cleaning is straightforward but the machine isn’t dishwasher safe, and the milk frother requires separate cleaning. Energy-saving features like automatic shut-off add convenience.

This machine is a strong choice for those who want a simple, all-in-one pod espresso maker with milk frothing, especially if you appreciate variety in coffee styles without complicated setup or maintenance.

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine stands out in the pod-espresso machine category for delivering high-quality, barista-level coffee at home. One of its notable strengths is the rapid heat-up time, taking only 3 seconds to reach the optimal extraction temperature, thanks to its innovative thermojet heating system. This feature means you can enjoy your coffee without unnecessary delays.

The machine also excels in milk frothing, with an automatic microfoam milk texturing wand that allows for customized milk temperature and texture, perfect for creating latte art or velvety cappuccinos. The 54mm portafilter ensures full flavor extraction, and the low-pressure pre-infusion helps to achieve a balanced taste by gradually increasing pressure at the start. The digital temperature control (PID) system maintains precise water temperature for optimal espresso extraction, enhancing the coffee quality.

The Breville Bambino is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, fast-heating machine with advanced milk frothing capabilities, though it may have some limitations in terms of water tank capacity and pod compatibility. While the brushed stainless steel design is sleek and modern, it might require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance.