The best coffee doesn’t have to come from a barista. Most of us are aware you can buy espresso makers to brew coffee from the comfort of your own home and this can save you a lot of money over the years as well as giving you the satisfaction of brewing your own delicious cup of java.
What a lot of people don’t realize, is that you don’t need a large, bulky machine that takes up all your countertop space. You can brew great-tasting coffee with a mini espresso machine and this means you never have to compromise on your kitchen layout.
To help you out, we’ve created a complete guide to the ten best mini espresso machines for small homes. We have a full list of categories to suit any need from our top pick to a budget option. Whether you like a full barista set-up or a programmable, automatic option, we have them all here.
Feel free to have a browse and if you like the look of any of these machines, click the ‘Price & Reviews’ button to check current prices on Amazon. Now let’s dive right in and check out the top choice today which is the Lavazza Blue Classy Mini Espresso Machine.
The 10 Best Mini Espresso Machines
- Top Choice – Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee Machine
- Runner Up – Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
- Best Option for Coffee Shop Quality Coffee – Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
- Best For Tall Glasses – De’Longhi Espresso, Stainless Steel
- Stovetop Option – Bialetti – Mini Express Lichtenstein: Moka Pot Set
- Best Pod Machine – Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine with Aeroccino by Breville
- Medium Sized Option – Gaggia Carezza De LUXE Espresso Machine
- Best Portable Option – Wacaco Minipresso NS, Portable Espresso Machine
- Best Cappuccino Maker – Gevi Espresso Machine 15 Bar Pump Pressure
- Budget Option – Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker
1. Top Choice – Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee Machine
Brand: Lavazza
Size: 13L x 5.3W x 10.2H (inches)
Type of Machine: Automatic Espresso Machine
Milk Frother: Not Included
The Lavazza Blue Classy Mini is the perfect all-rounder for ease of use and good quality espresso. The high-pressure system gives you the option to brew espresso or a long shot (cafe lungo). It’s fully automatic so all you need to do is add a capsule and press the size button.
Once your coffee is ready the machine ejects the capsule into a storage container. The drip tray can be adjusted to suit your favorite cup size so helps prevent splashes. The machine heats up in only 28 seconds and has eco standby mode that kicks in if it’s left inactive.
The Lavazza brand is an Italian, family-owned company that’s been making premium coffee equipment since 1895. This machine really showcases beautiful craftsmanship as well as a great user experience.
The downside is this machine is only compatible with Blue Lavazza capsules and these can be difficult to find in grocery stores so often have to be ordered online which can be a bit frustrating if you run out unexpectedly.
2. Runner Up – Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
Brand: Nespresso
Size: 12.9L x 3.3W x 8H
Type of Machine: Automatic Capsule Machine
Milk Frother: Not Included
Nespresso wins second place with this compact machine. It’s extremely narrow at just over 3 inches wide so hardly takes up any space in your kitchen. This tiny machine brews really delicious espresso thanks to the 19 bars of pressure it can achieve.
It takes only 25 seconds to heat up and the machine won’t waste power as it switches off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity. You can choose between two types of coffee, espresso or cafe lungo to suit whichever mood you’re in that day.
This machine comes with a welcome pack of Nespresso capsules which is really useful if you’re not sure which option is best for you. The only thing this machine doesn’t have is an empty water tank indicator. This isn’t a major concern though as the tank is clear so you can quickly glance over and see when it needs to be topped up.
3. Best Option for Coffee Shop Quality Coffee – Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Brand: Breville
Size: 12.5L x 7.6W x 12.2H
Type of Machine: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Milk Frother: Steam Wand Included
Best known for their barista express, Breville has taken this premium espresso machine and condensed it down to create the Bambino Plus. This little machine may be small in size but it behaves as impressively as a coffee shop machine.
It achieves the best water pressure using low-pressure pre-infusion to gradually extract all those wonderful flavors. Their Thermojet heating systems mean this machine is ready to dispense hot water in only 3 seconds and digital temperature control ensures your coffee is never burnt and bitter.
Dose control grinding helps you load up the filter basket to perfection. This machine has a built-in steam wand that helps automatically steam milk to create the perfect texture. You have the option to adjust the temperature as well to ensure it’s just to your liking.
This machine is really one of the best quality options for a compact espresso machine that’s as powerful as any larger model. The only downside is the price but for the quality build and all the features, you really get a whole lot more than you pay for.
4. Best For Tall Glasses – De’Longhi Espresso, Stainless Steel
Brand: De’Longhi
Size: 12.9L x 5.9W x 12.9H
Type of Machine: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Milk Frother: Steam Wand Included
If you love a wonderfully creamy latte, iced coffee, or a rich americano served in a tall glass then you need a machine that can accommodate this. An issue with a lot of espresso machines is that the brew head is very low so you can only really use small espresso cups. De’Longhi has created this espresso machine with a removable drip tray so you can brew straight into latte glasses.
This is a really easy-to-use espresso machine as it dispenses just the right amount of water every time so removes any need for guesswork. The steam wand means you can create wonderfully thick, micro-foamed milk so you can make any kind of specialty coffee you enjoy best.
With a 15-bar professional pump you get the fullest and most delicious flavor every time and at under 6 inches wide this machine fits well into any home.
5. Stovetop Option – Bialetti – Mini Express Lichtenstein: Moka Pot Set
Brand: Bialetti
Size: 9 x 9 x 4.3 inches
Type of Machine: Stovetop Espresso Maker
Milk Frother: Not Included
There are many reasons why an electric brewer isn’t the best option. The benefit of a Stovetop espresso maker is you can pack it away in a cupboard or drawer when not in use so it doesn’t require any counter space at all! They are also great for camping trips, travel, work as all they need is a heat source so can work without power. They’re even useful to use on a gas stove or wood burner so even if the power is out you can still enjoy a delicious espresso.
This Mini Express has the unique ability to brew the coffee directly into a cup. This means you maintain any crema produced as this is sometimes lost when the coffee is poured out.
The water is added to the single boiler base unit and full just below the air intake. The filter basket is placed on top and filled loosely with medium-finely ground coffee. Do not tamp it. The top portion can then be fixed in place and the whole device is placed over a heat source.
Steam pressure creates a rich, espresso-like cup of coffee that’s dispensed straight into the cup provided so you can sit back and enjoy. This option is quirky, easy to use and a great low maintenance option.
Espresso Machine Buyers Guide
Type of Machine
The best espresso machine for you really depends on where you lie on the beginner to barista spectrum. If you want a hands-on experience and the possibility to really get creative with your coffee brewing then you want a semi-automatic or manual espresso machine. You can load up the portafilter to perfection and a steam wand allows you to create cafe-quality microfoam that’s perfect for latte art.
If you’re a newbie to espresso making or you really need an automated system to help you out on those crazy busy mornings then a capsule coffee machine takes care of all the hard work for you.
The machine has to suit your needs so it’s best to consider your expectations as well as when and where you will be using this coffee maker. Once you have these points highlighted, you can go ahead and choose the very best home espresso machine for you.
Capsule Vs Fresh Coffee
Capsule machines have the benefit of ease of use and no-mess coffee brewing. The capsules help lock in those fresh coffee flavors but they do have some downsides. The capsules can be very wasteful and are not always recyclable. The coffee can vary in quality and freshness and you have less control over the brewing process.
Nothing quite beats the rich and full flavors you get from fresh coffee beans. You get complete control over the flavor profile and they can be disposed of in the compost as they are fully biodegradable. The downside is, pre-ground coffee isn’t always ideal as the fresh flavor is lost very quickly and the grind size isn’t always ideal for the machine you’re using. To really showcase fresh coffee, you need to use a high-quality coffee grinder, specifically a burr grinder. This can add an extra cost to your coffee set-up but is well worth the investment.
Milk Frother
If you are a fan of cappuccino, lattes, macchiato, or any other milk-based specialty coffees then you need a machine that can froth milk. These come in the form of espresso makers with a built in steam wand or a separate milk froth system.
Using a steam wand to steam milk always gives the best quality, textured microfoam so you can create any kind of coffee drink you enjoy best. The downside is that it does take practice to get this skill nailed.
A milk frother system does all the hard work for you but generally creates a lighter, airy texture to the milk so isn’t as versatile. It’s a great option for beginners and for making an easy cup of coffee.
Water Tank
It’s worth considering the water reservoir size and design when you’re looking to start brewing espresso at home. A removable water tank can be a great feature as this makes it pretty easy to clean and refill. If you plan to brew a lot of espresso drinks at once you need to make sure the water tank can cope. Some automatic machines will brew coffee to match the volume of water added so make sure you choose a model that suits your needs.
Descaling
Espresso machines often have a system of fine tubes that work with the pump to create pressure and move the water up to the brew head. These tubes can easily clog if the machine is not descaled regularly and this can cause pump failure. It’s really important to check the manufacturers guidelines and descale your machine as frequently as they recommend and using a solution that’s intended for your particular machine. If you don’t follow the guidelines then you risk invalidating your warranty.
F.A.Q.s
What are the different types of mini espresso machines?
Mini espresso machines can come in a variety of makes and models. You can get semi-automatic ones that give you the full barista experience or a super-automatic one so all you need to do is press a button. There are manual options that you have to physically pump or press to extract your shot of espresso and pod machines that take all sorts of pods or capsules. Finally, you can get stovetop espresso makers. Also known as a Moka pot, these are an Italian classic design that use steam pressure to brew a coffee that’s very similar to a cup of espresso.
What is a mini espresso machine?
A mini espresso machine is pretty much the same as a full sized espresso maker except the housing is a lot smaller. This allows them to fit into small kitchens.
What is the best mini espresso machine for a small kitchen?
The best mini espresso machine for you to be an at home barista really depends on your needs and requirements. There are so many great options to suit any skill level, budget, and brew method that the real answer to this question depends on your needs.
More Mini Espresso Machines Reviewed
6. Best Pod Machine – Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine with Aeroccino by Breville
Brand: Nespresso
Size: 16.9L x 5.5W x 12.4H
Type of Machine: Capsule Coffee Maker
Milk Frother: Aeroccino Milk Frother Included
When it comes to easy coffee, nothing beats a pod machine and Nespresso really knows a thing or two about these! The Vertuo Next comes from Nespresso’s Vertuoline of coffee makers. These use centrifusion technology to spin the capsule and create a coffee with a super thick crema every time.
The coffee maker reads a barcode on the capsule and adjusts all brew parameters automatically from coffee size, temperature, pressure, and brewing time. This means you don’t have to do anything except add a capsule and press a single button.
This option comes with the Aeroccino milk frother which is also very easy to use. Simply add your milk of choice and press a button. The frother swirls and froths the milk to create a wonderfully thick, foamy texture that makes wonderful lattes and cappuccinos.
7. Medium Sized Option – Gaggia Carezza De LUXE Espresso Machine
Brand: Gaggia
Size: 8.2L x 11W x 11H
Type of Machine: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Milk Frother: Auto-Frothing Steam Wand
Gaggia is one of the best manufacturers for its simple yet high-quality designs. This machine is no exception and is a perfect option for beginners thanks to its user-friendly design. It’s a little wider than other options so is better for those who are not quite needing a mini-sized machine but still want something fairly compact.
The pressurized portafilter basket means you don’t need a tamper so this makes it easy to load and start brewing. The machine reaches 9 bars of pressure, perfect for espresso brewing and preinfusion ensures an even flavor extraction.
It comes with an auto frothing steam wand for perfect milk-based coffees. It comes with a double-sized filter basket for richer, fuller tasting coffees, especially double shots. It has a cup warmer on top to get your coffee cups warm and ready to brew straight into.
This is an easy-to-use, high-quality coffee maker that’s perfect for a medium-sized home.
8. Best Portable Option – Wacaco Minipresso NS, Portable Espresso Machine
Brand: Wacaco
Size: 6.89 inches long
Type of Machine: Manual Espresso Maker
Milk Frother: Not Included
If you’re looking for great coffee when you’re camping, hiking, or traveling then this portable espresso maker is a great companion. It works with a hand-powered pump so you press it to brew the coffee. It takes coffee capsules so you need to add one of these alongside some hot water to start the brewing process. It’s a good idea to preheat the whole device with some hot water before you add the coffee.
This device is small enough to pack away into any backpack with ease. It only weighs 0.78lbs and can brew a little over 2 ounces of hot coffee. When you press the plunger it can reach an average of 8 bars of pressure so can produce a decent espresso with crema.
This little device can’t compete with the cafe-quality, high-pressure pumps found in expensive espresso makers but what it can do is make tasty coffee anywhere. It’s inexpensive, easy to use and extremely portable.
9. Best Cappuccino Maker – Gevi Espresso Machine 15 Bar Pump Pressure
Brand: Gevi
Size: 10.83L x 15.08W x 13.7H
Type of Machine: Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
Milk Frother: Steam Wand
This espresso machine by Gevi is perfect for anyone who loves to indulge in a thick, frothy cappuccino. You get full control over the coffee flavor as you load up the portafilter, tamp it and fix it in place. You then get to control the flow of water through the coffee by switching the brew button on and off. This means you can create a bolder cafe lungo if you prefer a more intense coffee taste throughout your cappuccino.
The steam wand also gives you plenty of control over the milk frothing stage so you can create the thickest, bubbliest milk ready to make your perfect cappuccino. The best part about this machine is the dual temperature control so you can ensure the milk frothing and coffee brewing temperatures are perfect for the job at hand and don’t end up burning the coffee. You can easily check these levels using the temperature control dial attached.
This is the perfect option to give you more control over brewing the best-tasting cappuccino you’ve ever tried.
10. Budget Option – Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker
Brand: Keurig
Size: 11.3L x 4.5W x 12.1H
Type of Machine: Pod Machine
Milk Frother: Not Included
If you’re looking for a compact little coffee maker that won’t break the bank then this Keurig is perfect. Despite being very small in size it can accommodate larger cups and travel mugs up to 7 inches tall thanks to the removable drip tray.
It brews coffee according to the amount of water you add so if you want a small volume, espresso-like coffee then just add enough water for this. It comes in a variety of colors and brews tasty coffee quickly.
With hundreds of flavors to choose from, the K cup pods are versatile, inexpensive, and easy to come by. This machine is in-expensive to buy and to run and is a great option for those with limited space and funds.
Final Thoughts
So that’s it for mini espresso makers. Whether you enjoy an americano, a thick creamy latte, or simply a bold double shot of espresso with a rich crema, there’s a machine here that will suit all your needs. Great espresso doesn’t have to take up a lot of counter space and no matter how small your home is, there’s a coffee maker out there that can fit right in!
