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10 Best Small Espresso Machines 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,500
Water Tank Capacity
Ease of Use
Milk Frothing Capability

Most important from
1252 reviews

Water Tank Capacity
The absence of a low water sensor is a minor oversight; users need to keep an eye on the water level to avoid running the machine dry.
Ease of Use
Maintenance is straightforward with a convenient tool tray and easy-to-follow cleaning routines.
Milk Frothing Capability
Heating milk in the microwave and using a frother wand is a viable alternative to the steam wand for those who prefer simplicity.
Build Quality and Durability
The machine’s durability and stainless steel finish add a premium feel, though it's quite heavy.
Additional Features
The built-in grinder does a great job, though it occasionally requires manual intervention to free stuck beans.

The Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy high-quality espresso at home. Its intelligent dosing system ensures that you get the right amount of coffee for each brew, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced coffee lovers. The assisted tamping feature mimics a professional barista's technique, helping to create a smooth puck for optimal extraction.

A standout aspect of this machine is its integrated conical burr grinder, which offers 25 grind settings. This allows you to customize the grind size to suit your taste, ensuring a flavorful brew every time. Additionally, the built-in microfoam steam wand is a great asset for creating textured milk, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.

The 2-liter water tank capacity is adequate for home use, and the design is compact, making it suitable for smaller kitchens. Durability seems promising with its brushed stainless steel finish, although the 23.7-pound weight could make it less portable than some users might prefer. Some users may find the initial learning curve a bit challenging, especially if they are completely new to espresso making. While the machine is designed for ease of use, mastering the milk frothing and brewing techniques may take some practice. The price point might be a bit steep for casual coffee drinkers, as it is positioned more towards espresso enthusiasts. Those who appreciate quality espresso and are willing to invest time in perfecting their craft will likely find this machine rewarding.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,500
Water Tank Capacity
Ease of Use
Milk Frothing Capability

Most important from
1252 reviews

Water Tank Capacity
The absence of a low water sensor is a minor oversight; users need to keep an eye on the water level to avoid running the machine dry.
Ease of Use
Maintenance is straightforward with a convenient tool tray and easy-to-follow cleaning routines.
Milk Frothing Capability
Heating milk in the microwave and using a frother wand is a viable alternative to the steam wand for those who prefer simplicity.
Build Quality and Durability
The machine’s durability and stainless steel finish add a premium feel, though it's quite heavy.
Additional Features
The built-in grinder does a great job, though it occasionally requires manual intervention to free stuck beans.
#2

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker with Steam Milk Frother, Stainless Steel Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men, Silver

Rating
9.7
Size and Portability
Ease of Use
Milk Frothing Capability

Most important from
6845 reviews

Size and Portability
Setup is straightforward, and the machine's compact size saves counter space without compromising performance.
Ease of Use
Solid construction and ease of use make it a great gift for espresso lovers, especially those looking to save money on café visits.
Milk Frothing Capability
This machine delivers delicious espresso and lattes, with a reliable steam wand for perfect milk froth.
Build Quality and Durability
The CASABREWS Espresso Machine exceeds expectations with its elegant design and high-quality build.
Additional Features
Noise can be an issue on certain surfaces, but a rubber mat underneath solves the problem.

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine is designed for coffee lovers who want to replicate café-quality drinks at home or in the office. Its compact size makes it a great fit for smaller kitchens, while the stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance. With a powerful 20-bar pressure system, this machine promises rich flavor and aroma in your espresso shots, which is a significant plus for those who prioritize coffee quality. The included milk frother allows you to create delightful drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, catering to anyone looking to experiment with milk foam art.

One standout feature is its 34 oz removable water tank, which provides ample capacity for multiple servings without frequent refills. However, it's essential to note that after using the frother, the machine requires a cool-down period before brewing coffee, which may be inconvenient if you want a quick drink.

Many users appreciate its ease of use and straightforward operation, though some may find the semi-automatic feature requires a bit of practice to master. The machine also has solid build quality but could benefit from the inclusion of more advanced features like a built-in grinder for added convenience. The CASABREWS Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and stylish machine capable of producing high-quality espresso and milk-based drinks. Potential users should be prepared to navigate the operational quirks but will enjoy the rich flavors it can create.

Rating
9.7
Size and Portability
Ease of Use
Milk Frothing Capability

Most important from
6845 reviews

Size and Portability
Setup is straightforward, and the machine's compact size saves counter space without compromising performance.
Ease of Use
Solid construction and ease of use make it a great gift for espresso lovers, especially those looking to save money on café visits.
Milk Frothing Capability
This machine delivers delicious espresso and lattes, with a reliable steam wand for perfect milk froth.
Build Quality and Durability
The CASABREWS Espresso Machine exceeds expectations with its elegant design and high-quality build.
Additional Features
Noise can be an issue on certain surfaces, but a rubber mat underneath solves the problem.
#3

Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip Coffee and Cold Brew Machine | Intergrated Coffee Grinder, Milk Frother, Assisted Tamper & Built-In Espresso Accessory Storage | Stainless Steel | ES601

Rating
9.1
Build Quality and Durability
Additional Features
Milk Frothing Capability

Most important from
1679 reviews

Build Quality and Durability
Exceptional build quality and durability shine through even after months of frequent use, with parts holding up well and minimal maintenance needed.
Additional Features
Automatic cleaning and self-programming simplify upkeep, and included accessories and recipe guides enhance the overall coffee-making experience.
Milk Frothing Capability
The dual frother excels at creating smooth microfoam and cold foam, with manual mode available but rarely needed thanks to reliable automatic settings.

The Ninja Luxe Café ES601 is a versatile 3-in-1 machine that combines espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew capabilities, making it a great choice if you want one device for multiple coffee styles. Its size is quite compact for what it offers (about 13"x13"x15"), which fits well on most kitchen counters but it weighs over 30 pounds, so it's not very portable. The water tank size isn’t specified but considering the range of brewing sizes (6 to 18 oz.), it likely supports several drinks before needing a refill. Pressure and temperature are automatically adjusted with smart technology to deliver balanced espresso shots, which is helpful for beginners who want café-quality coffee without guesswork.

The built-in burr grinder with 25 settings and weight-based dosing ensures fresh and precise grinding tailored to your drink choice, adding convenience and flavor consistency. Milk frothing is a highlight here; the dual froth system creates smooth microfoam automatically with four presets for different milk styles and temperatures, so manual frothing trial-and-error is removed. Build quality feels solid with stainless steel construction and useful extras like assisted tamper and built-in accessory storage, which keep things organized and support proper espresso preparation. Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleaning, and the machine includes helpful items like cleaning tools and a water hardness test kit.

The machine is on the heavier side, so it is not ideal if you want to move it often. While the smart features guide you well, it may feel a bit complex if you prefer a straightforward one-button operation. The integrated grinder and advanced frothing add to the price compared to simpler espresso makers. This Ninja model suits those looking for an all-in-one espresso and coffee solution with smart features and quality milk frothing, perfect for small kitchens and coffee lovers who enjoy variety and precision without professional barista skills.

Rating
9.1
Build Quality and Durability
Additional Features
Milk Frothing Capability

Most important from
1679 reviews

Build Quality and Durability
Exceptional build quality and durability shine through even after months of frequent use, with parts holding up well and minimal maintenance needed.
Additional Features
Automatic cleaning and self-programming simplify upkeep, and included accessories and recipe guides enhance the overall coffee-making experience.
Milk Frothing Capability
The dual frother excels at creating smooth microfoam and cold foam, with manual mode available but rarely needed thanks to reliable automatic settings.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Espresso Machines

Choosing the right small espresso machine can greatly enhance your coffee experience at home. When selecting a machine, it's important to consider your personal preferences, the space available in your kitchen, and how much effort you're willing to put into making your coffee. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best small espresso machine for you.
Size and PortabilityThe size of the espresso machine is crucial, especially if you have limited counter space. Small espresso machines are designed to be compact and portable, making them ideal for small kitchens or for taking on the go. When evaluating size, consider the dimensions of the machine and ensure it will fit comfortably in your designated space. If you plan to move it frequently, look for a lightweight model that is easy to carry.
Water Tank CapacityThe water tank capacity determines how many cups of espresso you can make before needing to refill the tank. This is important for convenience and efficiency. Small espresso machines typically have smaller water tanks, ranging from 0.5 to 1 liter. If you only make one or two cups a day, a smaller tank will suffice. However, if you entertain guests or drink multiple cups, opt for a machine with a larger tank to reduce the frequency of refills.
PressurePressure is measured in bars and is essential for extracting the perfect espresso shot. Most small espresso machines operate at 9 to 15 bars of pressure. Higher pressure generally means better extraction and richer flavor. For casual coffee drinkers, a machine with 9 bars of pressure will be adequate. If you are a coffee enthusiast looking for a more robust flavor, consider a machine with 15 bars of pressure.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses the machine's interface, the process of making espresso, and cleaning. Some machines have simple, one-touch buttons, while others require more manual operation. If you prefer convenience, look for a machine with straightforward controls and automatic features. For those who enjoy the art of making espresso, a manual or semi-automatic machine might be more satisfying. Additionally, consider how easy the machine is to clean, as regular maintenance is key to longevity and performance.
Milk Frothing CapabilityIf you enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, or other milk-based drinks, the machine's milk frothing capability is important. Some small espresso machines come with built-in steam wands or automatic frothers. A steam wand allows for more control and customization, but requires some skill to use. Automatic frothers are more convenient and easier for beginners. Decide based on your preference for milk-based drinks and your willingness to learn frothing techniques.
Build Quality and DurabilityThe build quality and durability of the machine affect its longevity and performance. Look for machines made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel or durable plastic. A well-built machine will withstand daily use and last longer. Read reviews and consider brands known for their reliability. If you plan to use the machine frequently, investing in a durable model will save you money in the long run.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance your espresso-making experience. These may include programmable settings, cup warmers, or built-in grinders. Programmable settings allow you to customize your coffee preferences, while cup warmers keep your espresso at the perfect temperature. Built-in grinders ensure freshly ground coffee for each shot. Consider which features are important to you and will add value to your daily coffee routine.

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