Ever dream of cafe-quality espresso without the cafe-sized footprint? You’re not alone. The quest for the perfect morning shot has led many of us to explore the world of small espresso machines. These compact powerhouses promise professional results from your kitchen counter, saving both space and those daily coffee shop trips. But with so many models boasting steam wands and pressure gauges, how do you choose the right one for your routine?
We’ve tested the top contenders to cut through the noise. This review dives into everything from ease of use and crema quality to which machine actually fits under your cabinets. Let’s find the one that’ll make your home feel like your favorite corner espresso bar, no barista certification required.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Small Espresso Machines
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CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker…
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9.8 |
Read Review |
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CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact…
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8.9 |
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Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker, Stainless Steel…
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8.6 |
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Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Steam Espresso Cappuccino and Latte Maker…
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8.4 |
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atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Pressure…
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8.2 |
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XIXUBX Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine…
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7.9 |
Read Review |
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Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Super Compact Espresso Maker…
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7.7 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Small Espresso Machines
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
The CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine is a compact, 20-bar system designed to bring the core experience of a coffee shop into your kitchen. It’s built for anyone who appreciates a genuine espresso, cappuccino, or latte without needing a massive, complicated machine. With its stainless steel finish and practical size, it fits neatly on a counter, making it a straightforward choice for home or office use. At its heart is a professional 20-bar pressure pump, which is key for proper extraction.
This pressure forces hot water through finely ground coffee, pulling out the oils and flavors that create a rich, fragrant espresso with that desirable layer of crema on top. A helpful built-in pressure gauge lets you monitor the process, so you can fine-tune things based on your prefered strength. The 1350W boiler heats up quickly, getting you from setup to your first shot in minutes. A standout feature is the integrated steam wand. This isn’t just for heating milk; it’s for texturing it.
With a little practice, you can create creamy microfoam that’s essential for a velvety latte or a thick-capped cappuccino. It opens the door to customizing your drinks and even trying your hand at simple foam art. The machine comes with both one-cup and two-cup brewing filters, so you can make just what you need. Practicality is a major focus. The 34-ounce water tank is removable, making filling and cleaning under the tap very easy.
CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel Cappuccino & Latte Machine with Steam Frother for Home, 43.9oz Water Tank, Coffee Gift for Women & Men, Silver
The CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine is designed for anyone who wants to bring the cafe experience into there own kitchen. This stainless steel machine combines a professional 20-bar pressure system with a dedicated steam wand, giving you the tools to craft authentic espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos at home.
At its core is a 20-bar professional pump and a 1350-watt motor.
This pressure is key for proper extraction, pulling a shot of espresso that has a rich aroma and a flavorful crema on top. It’s the foundation for all your drinks. The semi-automatic 2-in-1 design means you have control over the brewing process, but it remains straightforward to use.
The integrated steam frother is what lets you move beyond straight espresso. The powerful steam wand textures milk, creating a creamy micro-foam that’s essential for a latte or cappuccino.
This foam not only enhances the flavor and mouthfeel of your coffee but also allows for some basic latte art if your feeling creative. It’s how you turn a simple shot into a specialty drink.
Practicality was a big focus in the design. The machine has a compact footprint, so it won’t dominate your countertop, fitting well in kitchens of any size. It features a sizable 43.9-ounce removable water tank.
KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact Espresso and Cappuccino Machine with Preheating Function, 4 Cup Espresso Maker for Cappuccino or Latte, Gift for Coffee Lover
The KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is a compact and user-friendly appliance designed to bring the core espresso experience into your home kitchen. It balances simplicity with key features, making it a practical choice for beginners or anyone with limited counter space. This machine operates with a straightforward single switch knob and an indicator light, guiding you through the process. It’s built to make both hot and iced coffee preparations managable.
A helpful pause function lets you stop the brew if needed, which is great for multitasking. Remember to always turn the knob to “OFF” to release pressure before opening the water tank or removing the portafilter—this is a crucial safety step. The fast brewing technology aims to heat water quickly, delivering 1 to 4 cups (max 240ml) of espresso in about two minutes. The included glass carafe has clear markings to help you measure your brew.
Just be sure not to exceed the 240ml water line to prevent any leaking from the nozzle. For milk-based drinks, the integrated steam wand is a key feature. The 800W system generates steam to froth milk in roughly 40 seconds, allowing you to create texture for cappuccinos or lattes. A silicone pad on the wand helps prevent burns. Accurate temperature control here is meant to ensure a better tasting result.
KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact Espresso and Cappuccino Machine with Preheating Function, 4 Cup Espresso Maker for Cappuccino or Latte, Gift for Coffee Lover
The KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is a compact, user-friendly appliance designed to bring the core espresso experience into your home kitchen. It balances simplicity with the essential functions needed for both straight espresso and milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes, making it a practical choice for beginners and those with limited counter space.
Operation is straightforward. A single control knob with an indicator light guides you through the process.
A key feature is the innovative pause function, which lets you halt brewing if you need to—a helpful touch for busy mornings. Remember to always turn the knob to “OFF” to release pressure before opening the water tank or removing the portafilter. The machine uses fast brewing technology to heat water quickly, delivering 1 to 4 cups (up to 240ml) of espresso in about two minutes. The included glass cup has clear markings to help you pour the perfect amount.
A important note: do not exceed the 240ml water max, or the nozzle may leak.
For milk-based drinks, the powerful 800W steam wand is central. It generates enough pressure and heat to create micro-foam for creamy cappuccinos in roughly 40 seconds, with temperature control aimed at preserving flavor. A silicone pad on the wand helps prevent burns. Crucial maintenance tip: always clean the steam wand immediately after use to prevent clogs from milk residue.
KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 800W Compact Espresso and Cappuccino Machine with Preheating Function, 4 Cup Espresso Maker for Cappuccino or Latte, Gift for Coffee Lover
The KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is a compact, user-friendly appliance designed to bring the core espresso experience into your home kitchen without overwhelming complexity. It’s ideal for someone who wants a straightforward path from beans to a decent espresso or milky drink, all without needing a ton of counter space or barista-level skills. Operation is kept simple with a single switch knob and an indicator light.
You can make both hot and iced coffee, and a handy pause function lets you stop the brew if you need to—a useful feature for beginners. The machine uses fast brewing technology to heat water quickly, delivering 1 to 4 cups (up to 240ml total) of espresso in about two minutes. Just remember to not exceed that water mark, as the nozzle might leak. The included glass cup has clear markings to help you pour the perfect amount everytime. For milk-based drinks, the powerful 800W steam wand is key.
It generates enough pressure to create micro-foam for cappuccinos and lattes in roughly 40 seconds. Accurate temperature control helps ensure your milk doesn’t scald, preserving taste. A crucial tip: always clean the steam wand immediately after use to prevent clogs from milk residue. Also, be careful not to add water to the tank right after making coffee, as components will be very hot. Its compact size is a major plus.
Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker, Stainless Steel Professional Expresso Coffee Machines with Steam Milk Frother & 34oz Removable Water Tank for Home & Office, Latte, Cappuccino, Silver
The Espresso Machine 20 Bar Compact Espresso Maker is designed for anyone who wants authentic cafe-style coffee without the complexity of a commercial machine. Its professional 20-bar pressure system is the heart of the operation. This high pressure, powered by a robust 1450W motor, ensures hot water is forced through your coffee grounds effectively.
This extraction process is key—it pulls the rich, aromatic oils from the beans to create a espresso with a full-bodied flavor and that classic golden crema on top. It’s the essential foundation for any espresso-based drink you have in mind. A standout feature is the integrated steam wand. This isn’t just for heating milk; it’s a true frothing tool. With a little practice, you can create smooth, velvety microfoam perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.
The wand gives you control over texture, allowing you to enhance your drinks and even try simple milk art. Remember, the wand is versatile—it can also dispense hot water for americanos or tea. A helpful tip from the manual: after frothing, let the machine cool down briefly before brewing espresso again. This prevents the system from overheating and ensures consistent performance. Practicality is a major focus.
Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Steam Espresso Cappuccino and Latte Maker with Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher
The Mr. Coffee 4-Shot Steam Espresso Maker is designed for anyone who wants classic espresso drinks at home without the complexity or cost of a high-pressure machine. It uses a straightforward steam-brewing method to produce a dark, rich espresso concentrate, perfect as a base for your morning routine or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Its core feature is the steam-brewing process.
Instead of forcing water through coffee with a pump, this machine heats water to create steam, which then passes through the coffee grounds. This method brews a strong, robust espresso that’s particularly well-suited for making traditional Cuban coffee. It’s a simple, effective system that gets the job done with minimal fuss.
You won’t be making just a single shot at a time. The machine comes with an extra-large portafilter that lets you brew up to four shots of espresso in one cycle.
This is great for serving guests or if you prefer a larger drink. To help with consistency, the removable water pitcher has clear measurement markings, so you always know how much water your putting in for brewing or for using the steam wand.
Speaking of the steam wand, it’s integrated right into the machine. After you brew your espresso, you can switch the knob to steam and use the wand to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Pressure Espresso Maker, with 44OZ Removable Tank, Compact Stainless Steel Coffee Machine for Home, Office, Latte, Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men
The atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother is designed for anyone who wants real cafe-style coffee without the complexity. It combines professional features with a straightforward, compact design that works well on a kitchen counter or in an office. Its core is the Professional 20 Bar Pressure System. This pump generates enough power to ensure a consistent 9-10 bars of pressure during extraction.
This is the key to getting a full-bodied shot with rich flavor and that signature layer of golden crema on top. You’re not just making coffee; your extracting the complete taste profile from your beans. The NTC Precision Temp Control is equally important. It heats up in about 30 seconds and locks in the ideal 90-96°C brewing temperature.
This stability means you get a consistent, balanced cup every time, whether you prefer bright light roasts or intense dark roasts, solving the problem of sour or bitter shots from inconsistent heat. You have flexible control over the brew. Choose the Auto Espresso Mode for a hands-off approach—it automatically brews a single or double shot.
XIXUBX Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Steam Wand, Compact Design Coffee Maker for Latte, Safety Lock & Tritan Cups, 800w, Black
The XIXUBX Coffee Machine is a compact espresso maker designed for simplicity and speed. It uses 3.5 bar pressure and an 800W system to brew a fresh espresso in about two minutes. That makes it a practical choice for a quick morning routine or an afternoon pick-me-up without a long wait. The fast brewing relies on consistent heat, so it’s a good idea to let the machine cool briefly between back-to-back shots for the best flavor. Its small footprint is a major advantage.
Measuring just 8.3 inches deep and 11.8 inches high, it takes up minimal counter space. Weighing only 3.3 pounds, it’s easy to move around if needed. This compact design fits well in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office corners where space is limited, proving you don’t need a large machine for a proper espresso. For milk-based drinks, the machine includes an adjustable steam wand. This wand lets you froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes, and it’s designed with a heat-resistant tube for safety.
It comes with a red pin to clear any milk blockages, which is handy for maintenance. A note: if the wand feels stiff when attaching, a gentle twist usually helps. The wand might require a bit of dexterity to use and clean effectively. Operation is straightforward with a single control knob. You use this one dial to turn the machine on, start the brewing cycle, and activate the steam wand. The portafilter has a locking clip for easy disposal of used coffee grounds.
Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Super Compact Espresso Maker Stainless Steel Professional Coffee Machine Espresso with Power Steam & LED Display for Home Barista Latte and Cappuccino Maker-Silver
The Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar Super Compact is designed for the home barista who wants professional results without a massive machine. It combines a powerful 20-bar pressure system with precise controls in a sleek, stainless steel body that fits easily on your counter. At it’s core, the professional 20-bar pressure pump and 1350W boiler work together to properly extract coffee.
This is the kind of pressure used in cafes to get that rich, flavorful espresso with a good crema layer, which forms the perfect base for lattes and cappuccinos. You get consistent quality shot after shot. Temperature is crucial, and this machine gives you control. The integrated LED display shows you precise temperature readings, so you can monitor the heat for both brewing and steaming. This helps ensure your coffee is never under or over-extracted, leading to a balanced taste everytime.
The pre-infusion function is a key feature often found in higher-end models. It starts the extraction with low pressure, gently wetting the coffee puck before full pressure kicks in. This reduces air bubbles and helps draw out the coffee’s flavors evenly for a more complete and smoother cup. For milk-based drinks, the powerful steam system is ready. The steam wand delivers dry, hot steam that texturizes milk effectively, creating that microfoam needed for latte art.
Small Espresso Machines Buying Guide
A compact espresso machine is your ticket to a quality morning shot without needing a barista’s diploma. These units prioritize a small footprint and straightforward operation, making them perfect for tight kitchens. Key things to consider are how much control you want, how quickly you need your coffee, and how much cleanup your willing to do.
Pressure Type: Pump vs. Steam
This is teh core difference. True pump machines (often 9 or 15 bars) force hot water through packed grounds, creating that classic espresso crema. Steam-driven models are simpler and cheaper, but thay use steam pressure which can result in a weaker, more bitter shot. For authentic espresso, a pump model is the way to go.
Your Daily Routine & Volume
Think about your real mornings. Are you pulling a single shot for yourself, or making back-to-back lattes for a partner? Machines with a single boiler can only do one task at a time—brew, then steam milk. If you regularly make milk drinks, a faster thermoblock heater or dual boiler saves a lot of waiting. A smaller water tank means more frequent refills, too.
Grind Dependency and Dosing
Some machines need you to use pre-ground coffee, which is convenient but less fresh. Others have a built-in grinder, a huge space-saver but an extra part that can wear out. The most flexible option is a machine with a pressurized basket that works with pre-ground, but also accomodates finely ground fresh coffee for when you want more control over flavor.
Milk Frothing Capability
If cappuccinos are your goal, check the steam wand. A basic *panarello* wand with a sleeve is easier for beginners and makes decent foam. A professional-style wand is just a metal pipe; it gives you total control for microfoam but requires practice to master. Some machines even have an automatic milk frother, which is super consistent but another component to clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Espresso Machines
What makes an espresso machine “small”?
Usually, it means a compact footprint for tight spaces like small kitchens or dorm rooms. They prioritize a smaller water tank and often a single boiler. They’re designed for making one or two drinks at a time, not for a big crowd.
Can a small machine make real espresso?
Yes, absolutely. Look for machines that use a pump to create at least 9 bars of pressure. This is teh key to getting that rich, creamy crema on top of your shot. Some very compact models use steam pressure instead, which doesn’t quite get the same result.
Do I need a separate grinder?
For the best espresso, yes. Pre-ground coffee goes stale fast and won’t give you that fresh taste. A burr grinder lets you adjust the fineness, which is crucial for a good extraction. Some small machines come with a built-in grinder, which saves counter space.
Are thay hard to clean and maintain?
They require regular care, but it’s not too difficult. You’ll need to backflush the group head with a cleaning tablet and descale the machine to remove mineral buildup. Daily cleaning of the portafilter and drip tray is essential to. It keeps everything tasting great.
What’s the difference between a steam toy and a pump machine?
This is a big one. Steam machines are cheaper and simpler, but they just don’t create enough pressure for authentic espresso. Pump-driven machines are the real deal. They cost more, but they produce the proper pressure and temperature for a true espresso shot.
Is the milk frother any good on small machines?
Many small machines have a panarello steam wand, which is easier for beginners to use for frothing milk. It may not give you the super fine microfoam a professional wand does, but it’s great for lattes and cappuccinos at home. Some models just have a simpler, automatic frother.
Key Takeaways
Finding the right machine is really about what fits your routine. Think about how many drinks you make each morning and the counter space you have. A simpler model might be perfect if you just want a straightforward, good espresso. If you enjoy the process itself, a machine with more control could be a better match.
At the end of the day, the best choice is the one you’ll use and enjoy. These compact appliances make it easy to have a quality coffee at home. With so many great small espresso machines available now, you can find one that feels just right for you. It’s a nice way to start your day without the cafe line.