10 Best Single Serve Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a robust option for coffee enthusiasts looking for a high-quality at-home espresso experience. One of its standout features is the integrated precision conical burr grinder, which allows you to grind coffee beans directly into the portafilter, offering fresh and customizable coffee grounds every time. The machine also boasts a digital temperature control (PID) system that ensures the water is always at the perfect temperature for optimal espresso extraction. This is essential for achieving a balanced and rich flavor in your coffee.

Additionally, the low-pressure pre-infusion feature helps in extracting maximum flavor from the coffee grounds by gradually increasing the pressure at the start of the brewing process. The powerful steam wand allows for manual microfoam milk texturing, which is great for latte art and enhancing the flavor of milk-based espresso drinks. The machine comes with a variety of useful accessories, including a stainless steel milk jug, cleaning tools, and a water filter holder, making it convenient for everyday use.

The Breville Barista Express is relatively large and heavy, which might be a concern if you have limited counter space. At 15.9 inches in height and weighing 22.1 pounds, it's not the most compact option available. Additionally, the manual operation may require a bit of a learning curve for those new to making espresso. The water tank capacity of 67 ounces is quite generous, reducing the frequency of refills. This machine is ideal for those willing to invest some time in mastering the art of espresso-making and who appreciate a high level of control over their brewing process.

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by De'Longhi is a versatile single-serve machine suitable for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate convenience and variety. One of its notable strengths is the ease of use, offering coffee or espresso at the touch of a button. With a quick 25-second heat-up time and energy-saving automatic shut-off, it’s ideal for busy individuals looking for a fast brew.

The machine provides versatility by allowing you to brew four different cup sizes, catering to different preferences whether you enjoy a bold morning espresso or a mild afternoon coffee. Its 40-ounce water tank is decent for single-serve use, meaning fewer refills between brews, which is convenient for regular users. Additionally, the included starter set of Nespresso capsules is a nice touch, enabling you to explore various flavors right away.

However, the machine’s reliance on Nespresso pods could be a downside for those looking to use their own ground coffee, as it limits flexibility to Nespresso’s pod range. While its compact design doesn't take up much counter space, the machine's size might seem bulky for some with small kitchens. Cleaning is straightforward, but regular descaling is necessary to maintain performance. In terms of design, the sleek ink black finish makes it a stylish addition to your kitchen. The fully automatic operation mode is user-friendly, but some might miss the control and customization of manually operated machines. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Nespresso Vertuo Plus excels in delivering quality espresso and coffee with minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize convenience and quality in a single-serve setup.