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10 Best Espresso Pod Machines 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker By De'Longhi, Ink Black

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,259
Pod Compatibility
Heat-Up Time
Size and Design

Most important from
16858 reviews

Pod Compatibility
The different pod sizes allow for everything from a quick espresso shot to a full mug of coffee.
Heat-Up Time
The machine heats up quickly, operates quietly, and fits beautifully in any kitchen.
Size and Design
The machine heats up quickly, operates quietly, and fits beautifully in any kitchen.
Additional Features
The rotating water tank is a brilliant feature, making it adaptable to any countertop space.

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by De'Longhi is designed for those who enjoy the convenience of pod-based coffee without compromising on quality. It features a quick 25-second heat-up time and automatically shuts off for energy saving, making it both efficient and user-friendly. This machine is versatile, capable of brewing four different cup sizes (5oz to 8oz coffee, single and double espressos) at the touch of a button. These features make it a good fit for a variety of coffee preferences, whether you like your coffee bold, mild, hot, or iced.

With a 40-ounce water tank, you won't need to refill often, and the included 10-count used pods container adds to the machine's convenience. Its compact size (5.59”D x 16.88”W x 12.79”H) and sleek design in ink black make it a stylish addition to any kitchen. Additionally, the complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules allows new users to sample different flavors and strengths.

However, the machine's reliance on Nespresso pods can be seen as a limitation since it restricts users to proprietary capsules, which can be more expensive than other options. Also, if you prefer a hands-on espresso experience, this fully automatic machine might not offer the level of control some coffee enthusiasts desire. This espresso-pod machine is ideal for those who prioritize convenience, speed, and variability in their coffee choices, with the primary drawback being the ongoing cost of Nespresso pods.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,259
Pod Compatibility
Heat-Up Time
Size and Design

Most important from
16858 reviews

Pod Compatibility
The different pod sizes allow for everything from a quick espresso shot to a full mug of coffee.
Heat-Up Time
The machine heats up quickly, operates quietly, and fits beautifully in any kitchen.
Size and Design
The machine heats up quickly, operates quietly, and fits beautifully in any kitchen.
Additional Features
The rotating water tank is a brilliant feature, making it adaptable to any countertop space.
#2

Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso Brew Styles, Single-Serve Coffee & Nespresso Capsule Compatible, Built-in Frother, Espresso, Cappuccino & Latte Maker, Black, CFN601

Rating
9.6
Pressure
Pod Compatibility
Water Tank Capacity

Most important from
2294 reviews

Pressure
The espresso machine excels, producing quality shots that rival those from a coffeeshop, with options like standard espresso, lungo, and over ice.
Pod Compatibility
I love the versatility, providing the option to brew both espresso capsules and traditional American coffee in one compact system.
Water Tank Capacity
Despite its compact size, the machine offers a delay brew feature and a spacious water tank, enhancing its convenience for daily use.
Size and Design
The design is eye-appealing and the machine is easy to clean, with excellent and clear instructions for setup.
Additional Features
This is a really cool coffee machine, offering the convenience of making both a carafe of coffee and espresso with adjustable strength settings.

The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System is a versatile machine that combines espresso and coffee-making capabilities, suitable for those who enjoy a variety of coffee styles at home. With a robust 19-bar pressure system, it delivers quality espresso with a smooth crema, which is a great feature for espresso enthusiasts. The compatibility with Nespresso capsules and the option to use coffee grounds adds to its versatility, allowing users to brew different styles, including espresso, lungo, and iced options. This makes it a flexible choice for households with diverse tastes.

The built-in frother is a handy addition for creating café-style drinks such as cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites, adding to the machine's appeal for those who enjoy milk-based beverages. The adjustable cup tray accommodates various cup sizes, which is practical for both single servings and larger brews.

On the downside, the machine's size might be a consideration for kitchens with limited counter space, as it measures approximately 12.21 inches deep by 9.84 inches wide by 14.96 inches high. While the removable water reservoir is convenient for refilling, the water tank capacity could influence how frequently it needs refilling depending on usage.

Additional features like the used capsule storage bin, which holds up to 20 capsules, and the delay brew, keep warm, and clean functions add to its user-friendly appeal. However, some users may find it cumbersome that espresso capsules are sold separately, potentially adding to the cost.

This product is particularly well-suited for individuals or families who enjoy experimenting with various coffee styles and appreciate the convenience of both pod and ground coffee options. Potential buyers should consider their kitchen space and budget when deciding if it’s the right fit.

Rating
9.6
Pressure
Pod Compatibility
Water Tank Capacity

Most important from
2294 reviews

Pressure
The espresso machine excels, producing quality shots that rival those from a coffeeshop, with options like standard espresso, lungo, and over ice.
Pod Compatibility
I love the versatility, providing the option to brew both espresso capsules and traditional American coffee in one compact system.
Water Tank Capacity
Despite its compact size, the machine offers a delay brew feature and a spacious water tank, enhancing its convenience for daily use.
Size and Design
The design is eye-appealing and the machine is easy to clean, with excellent and clear instructions for setup.
Additional Features
This is a really cool coffee machine, offering the convenience of making both a carafe of coffee and espresso with adjustable strength settings.
#3

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Rating
9.4
Pressure
Heat-Up Time
Size and Design

Most important from
2225 reviews

Pressure
The machine’s power and materials are sufficient to make decent espresso without the warmup time of big machines.
Heat-Up Time
Heats up in literal seconds, making espresso almost instantly—a lifesaver on busy mornings.
Size and Design
Compact design fits perfectly in small kitchens without taking up too much space.
Additional Features
Automated cleaning feature makes maintenance a breeze.

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is designed for coffee lovers who appreciate a hands-on approach to espresso making. Its standout feature is the automatic steam wand, which allows users to create microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos with ease. The machine heats up in just 3 seconds, ensuring you won't be left waiting for your coffee fix. The low-pressure pre-infusion helps enhance flavor extraction, which is great for achieving a balanced cup of coffee.

In terms of size, it has a compact design, making it a good fit for kitchens with limited counter space. The 54mm portafilter allows for richer flavors, and the digital temperature control ensures that water is heated to the optimal temperature for espresso extraction. With simple controls for one or two cups and adjustable milk settings, it caters well to both beginners and more experienced users.

Being a semi-automatic machine, it may require some practice to master, particularly for those new to espresso making. It doesn't come with pod compatibility, which could be a drawback for users looking for a quick, ultra-convenient option. Additionally, the machine's warranty is limited to one year, which some might consider short for a product in this category.

The Breville Bambino is perfect for home users wanting to dive into the world of espresso with a machine that delivers professional-quality results, yet it may not suit those prioritizing convenience over hands-on preparation.

Rating
9.4
Pressure
Heat-Up Time
Size and Design

Most important from
2225 reviews

Pressure
The machine’s power and materials are sufficient to make decent espresso without the warmup time of big machines.
Heat-Up Time
Heats up in literal seconds, making espresso almost instantly—a lifesaver on busy mornings.
Size and Design
Compact design fits perfectly in small kitchens without taking up too much space.
Additional Features
Automated cleaning feature makes maintenance a breeze.

Buying Guide for the Best Espresso Pod Machines

Choosing the right espresso pod machine can significantly enhance your coffee experience. These machines are designed for convenience, offering a quick and easy way to make espresso without the need for grinding beans or measuring coffee. When selecting an espresso pod machine, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look at and how to navigate them.
PressurePressure is measured in bars and indicates how much force the machine uses to push water through the coffee pod. This is important because higher pressure generally means better extraction of flavors from the coffee, resulting in a richer and more aromatic espresso. Machines typically range from 9 to 19 bars. For a strong, authentic espresso, look for machines with at least 15 bars of pressure. If you prefer a milder coffee, a machine with lower pressure might suffice.
Pod CompatibilityPod compatibility refers to the types of coffee pods the machine can use. Some machines are designed to work with specific brands or types of pods, while others are more versatile. This is important because it affects your choice of coffee flavors and brands. If you have a favorite coffee brand, make sure the machine is compatible with its pods. For more variety, look for machines that accept multiple pod types.
Water Tank CapacityThe water tank capacity determines how much water the machine can hold, which affects how many cups of espresso you can make before needing to refill. This is important for convenience, especially if you make multiple cups a day. Small tanks (under 1 liter) are suitable for occasional use or single-person households. Medium tanks (1-2 liters) are good for small families or frequent use. Large tanks (over 2 liters) are ideal for heavy use or larger households.
Heat-Up TimeHeat-up time is the duration it takes for the machine to reach the optimal temperature for brewing espresso. This is important for convenience, especially if you’re often in a hurry. Machines with quick heat-up times (under 30 seconds) are great for busy mornings. If you don’t mind waiting a bit longer, machines with heat-up times of 30 seconds to 1 minute can also be a good choice.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the machine affect how much counter space it will take up and how well it fits with your kitchen decor. This is important for both functionality and aesthetics. Compact machines are ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space. Larger machines may offer more features but require more room. Choose a design that complements your kitchen style and fits comfortably in your available space.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include things like milk frothers, programmable settings, and automatic cleaning functions. These features are important for enhancing your coffee-making experience and adding convenience. If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos, look for a machine with a built-in milk frother. Programmable settings can save you time by allowing you to customize and save your preferred coffee settings. Automatic cleaning functions can make maintenance easier and prolong the life of your machine.

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