10 Best Small Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

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.

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is compact and portable, making it ideal for home use, especially in small kitchens. With its 13.7 x 6.3 x 12 inches dimensions, it doesn’t take up much counter space. The machine is designed for ease of use, featuring an automatic steam wand and control panel with settings for 1 or 2 cups and steam, which allows for easy customization of your coffee and milk texture.

The automatic microfoam milk texturing feature is a standout, enabling users to create barista-quality foam for lattes and cappuccinos without much effort. The rapid heat-up time of three seconds ensures you can enjoy your coffee without a long wait, which is a significant advantage for busy mornings. The low-pressure pre-infusion and precise temperature control contribute to consistently balanced and flavorful espresso shots.

The build quality appears solid with brushed stainless steel, suggesting durability. The one-year limited warranty provides some assurance against potential defects. Potential downsides include the manual nature of some features, which might not suit those looking for a fully automatic experience. The milk frothing capability, while automatic, may require some trial and error to perfect. Yet, for its size, performance, and ease of use, the Breville Bambino is a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable, high-quality espresso machine for home use.

The Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville is a compact and versatile machine designed for convenience and quality. Its small size (8.32"D x 11.91"W x 11.93"H) makes it an excellent fit for tight kitchen spaces or for those who want an easy-to-move espresso machine. The 40-ounce water tank is relatively large for a machine of its size, which means fewer refills and more steaming hot coffee or espresso at your convenience.

The machine boasts a 25-second heat-up time, making it great for those in a rush, and an energy-saving automatic shut-off feature adds a layer of safety and efficiency. With the ability to brew four different cup sizes, it accommodates various preferences, whether you want a quick shot of espresso or a larger coffee. However, it should be noted that the Vertuo relies on Nespresso's proprietary capsules, which can be more expensive and less environmentally friendly compared to ground coffee options.

The machine includes a used pods container that holds up to 13 capsules, adding to convenience but also indicating that frequent disposals might be necessary. The black design is sleek and modern, fitting well in most kitchen decors. On the downside, the milk frothing capability is not integrated, so you will need a separate frother if you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos. Build quality and durability are solid. The included complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules is a nice touch for new users to explore different flavors. This machine is ideal for those looking for a user-friendly, versatile, and compact coffee and espresso maker, but it may not be the best choice if you prioritize integrated milk frothing or prefer not to be tied to proprietary coffee capsules.