10 Best Portable Espresso Makers 2025 in the United States

The AeroPress Original XL is a versatile and portable coffee maker that blends the qualities of French press, pour-over, and espresso styles into one device. It features a large 20 oz (600 ml) water capacity, double that of the standard AeroPress, allowing you to brew one generous cup or enough for two people quickly—usually within about two minutes. Instead of relying on traditional high-pressure pumps like electric espresso machines, it uses air pressure created by manual pressing to extract flavor, producing a rich, smooth cup with less bitterness and grit that highlights the coffee's natural flavors.

Since it doesn't have a built-in heating element, you'll need hot water from another source, which is common for portable espresso makers focused on simplicity and travel use. The device is lightweight (just over 10 ounces), compact, and made from durable, shatterproof material, making it easy to carry for camping, travel, or office use. It is also dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleaning. One of its strengths is the control it offers over brewing time, temperature, and grind size, letting you customize your coffee just how you like it.

As a manual device, it requires some effort to press and might not deliver the same intense pressure as electric espresso machines, which could influence the crema and espresso authenticity. The AeroPress Original XL is best suited for coffee lovers who want a portable, easy-to-clean, and quick brewing device that delivers flavorful coffee with flexibility, but it is less suited for those seeking traditional espresso with thick crema or built-in heating.

The AeroPress Clear Coffee Press shines as a portable espresso maker, particularly for those who love rich, smooth coffee without the bitterness often associated with traditional methods. Its patented 3-in-1 brew technology stands out, allowing users to create a variety of coffee styles—espresso, French press, and pour-over—offering versatility in brewing. This feature, combined with its ability to use finer coffee grounds, results in a cleaner, grit-free cup, ensuring a delightful coffee experience wherever you are.

Portability is another major strength, as this coffee maker is lightweight, compact, and made from durable Tritan, making it suitable for travel, camping, or even daily office use. The shatterproof design means it can handle accidental drops, which is ideal for on-the-go coffee lovers. Additionally, the easy clean-up is a big plus; unlike many other coffee makers that require extensive cleaning, the AeroPress takes only seconds to tidy up after brewing, thanks to its micro-filter system.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While it excels in creating excellent coffee, it requires manual operation, which might not appeal to everyone. Users looking for a fully automated experience may find this aspect inconvenient. Additionally, while it does a great job with espresso-like coffee, true espresso enthusiasts might still find it lacks the pressure found in traditional espresso machines, which is essential for creating authentic espresso shots. For anyone looking for a lightweight, portable coffee maker that produces high-quality coffee without the fuss, the AeroPress Clear Coffee Press is an excellent choice, especially for travel and outdoor adventures.

The AeroPress Go Plus stands out as a versatile and compact portable espresso-style coffee maker, ideal for travelers, campers, or office use. It combines features of a French press, pour-over, and espresso into one device, allowing you to brew a smooth and rich cup in under two minutes. It uses manual air pressure and micro-filtration to reduce bitterness and bring out the full flavor of your coffee beans. While it doesn’t have a built-in heating element, it requires hot water from an external source, which is typical for portable espresso makers but something to consider if you want a completely self-contained system.

The water capacity is moderate, suitable for a single cup or small serving, and the included double-wall, vacuum-insulated stainless steel tumbler keeps your coffee hot or iced for longer. Its build quality is impressive; made from durable, shatterproof Tritan plastic and stainless steel, it feels sturdy yet lightweight at just over half a kilogram. Cleaning and brewing are quick and simple, making it user-friendly for beginners and convenient on the go.

The AeroPress Go Plus relies on manual operation, so it requires some effort and time to master your preferred coffee strength and style. It offers excellent portability and customization, making it perfect if you value flavor and flexibility over automatic features in a travel-friendly espresso maker.