Best Espresso Machines for Small Kitchens: Compact & Powerful Picks

Breville Infuser Espresso Machine

When it comes to espresso, we have different tastes and needs. Most of you know that the components used for creating an espresso affect its entire taste. However, most of the time, the taste will always depend on how it has been made.

That is why espresso is known to be an excellent method of producing and drinking coffee. These days, things have changed dramatically. This means that you don’t need to go to your favorite coffee shop every morning to grab your favorite espresso.

Nowadays, to create your espresso drink with your preferred taste, you need to purchase an easy-to-use, powerful, and effective espresso machine, such as the Breville Infuser Espresso Machine.

If you are looking for an espresso machine that has a compact size and can perfectly fit in your small-spaced apartment, then this machine is perfect for you.

Breville is one of the most reliable brands in terms of making espresso machines. Aside from coffee makers, they are known for producing kitchen and home appliances. The Breville Infuser Espresso Machine is designed to be used in both the office and the house. This item has been on the market for a long period, and it has gone through a lot of upgrades as time passes by.

If this is your first time using a coffee maker, keep in mind that this machine is a type of semi-automatic coffee maker. Since it is semi-automatic, you can manage the entire espresso-making process. But it needs your time and effort to memorize and understand its techniques.

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Key Features

• Volumetric control – This feature will enable you to have full control over your espresso volume. Generally, you need to take two cups of espresso volume. On the other hand, if you put your made coffee in a small or large cup, consider looking at its settings options.
• Pressure Gauge – This feature will enable you to have an idea about the perfect pressure you need to apply when making a coffee.
• Cup Warming Tray – This feature will maintain your espresso warm as long as it is placed in this area. This cup warming tray can support a wide range of coffee cup sizes.
• Drip Tray – This component of the said espresso machine can be removed. This will help you a lot in terms of cleaning the machine. It can be used when you have several cups.
• Dedicated Hot Water Dispenser – This feature will enable you to have a constant supply of hot water.
• Its control panel can be managed easily. Its display section will provide you about well-written details you need to know about the tasks
• Its water reservoir is removable and huge enough to hold about 61 fl. Oz
• It has excellent storage sections, volumetric controls, and water dispenser features
• It has a top-notch performance that is similar to the other espresso makers that are pricey
• You can control its temperature with its Electric PID and Thermocoil Heating System.
• It is beginner-friendly
• Compact size, which is perfect for small apartments
• It has a short warranty time
• In spite of its top-notch performance, it has a low build quality
• You can’t control its temperature level manually since it uses the electric PID technology

Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine – Best Espresso Machine with Pod System

Another best espresso machine that you might consider is the Breville-Nespresso USA Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine. 

It is one of the coffee makers that has the smallest size in the world. But despite that, its size does not affect the taste and the flavor of espresso you can make with this.

Since it is very compact, you can make sure that you can take it anywhere with you. In connection with that, you can also store it easily, and it will not take up too much space in your small area.

Its price ranges from 109 US Dollars to 190 US Dollars. One of the drawbacks that you can notice with this machine is that it does not offer any warranty. But it features a recalibrating system and descaling function. These features will help you in cleaning it.

You can use it in brewing both espresso and coffee drinks. Upon purchasing it, you can get some espresso pods that you can use for your first espresso-making experience.

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Key Features

• Eco-Mode – This feature makes this machine consume low energy. Aside from that, it also comes with an automatic energy-saving function. This will turn off the machine during its inactivity after nine minutes. As a result, it can consume a lesser amount of energy.
• Programmable Cup Sizes – The machine can be used for creating Lungo and Espresso drinks. These cups can be used easily and intuitively. Each programmable cup has a minimalist design.
• Compact Design – It features a curvy design and rounded edges. It is also portable since it is only 6.1 pounds.
• It can create both regular coffee and an espresso drink
• It can be cleaned easily because of its descaling and recalibrating functions
• It is lightweight, portable, and compact in size. This means that you can take and store it in a small-spaced kitchen
• Even though it is expensive, it does not provide any warranty

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

Are you looking for an espresso machine that has an affordable price and can be used easily? 

Well, the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel is what you are looking for.

It has loads of good features. Aside from that, it is durable. One of the things that you will love about it is that it has a minimalist design. 

It also features simple controls with no additional buttons.

The coffee maker features a drip tray indicator. This will float from the time its tray has been full. It is a plastic disk that will float whenever the tray gets full. Another thing that you will love about it is that it comes with a removable water reservoir that can hold 64 oz. of water. Aside from that, it is not hard to remove for cleaning.

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Key Features

• Hands-Free and Automatic Microfoam – A coffee or espresso with microfoam on its top looks more attractive than a plain one. Beginners and new baristas might have a hard time making a perfect milk-based coffee drink. But, there’s nothing for you to worry about since this machine comes with a hands-free and automatic microfoam maker.
• Auto Purging – Its heat system is being purged right after being used.
• Precise Extraction PID – It can automatically heat the water to the perfect heat temperature level. This will help you to have a perfect espresso extraction.
• 3 Seconds ThermoJet Heating – You can get the perfect temperature for extraction in just three seconds. This can be done by pressing the cup indicator
• Its steam system can be cleaned after making the first coffee batch.
• Its steam wand will enable you to create the perfect texture of your milk foam for your created espresso drink
• This is perfect for those who have a small-spaced kitchen. Storing it does not take up too much space in your cooking area
• You don’t need to go to your favorite coffee shop to order your preferred espresso drink
• It has a small drip tray
• Since it is small, it means that it does not have whistles and bells
• It does not feature a grinder

Delonghi Dedica 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine

This machine is the latest bar pump machine feature. Since it is the newest version, it has gone through lots of advancements. 

Also, it is much slimmer compared to before. But even though it is now slimmer, it does not mean that it lacks important features.

Its width is just half that of the traditional pump-driven machines. But despite that, it still features a good water tank in its back area.

Aside from the ground coffee granules, this machine also uses the easy-serving espresso (ESE) capsules. This means that you can brew your espresso easily without having any unusual mess. You can purchase it in three different colors – black, red, and stainless steel- covering a durable metal body.

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Key Features

• Sleek design – The machine features a narrow footprint, compact design, and sleek profile that is suitable for your small-spaced kitchen countertop.
• Adjustable Bottom Trays – This feature will enable the machine to support taller cups. If you want to pour your espresso drink into a larger cup, then you can because of its adjustable bottom trays. Aside from that, it also comes with a water reservoir that can be removed easily
• Manual Frother – This feature will enable you to mix steamed milk to make your creamy and rich froth. It will also help you to achieve your desired froth texture
• It can be used easily and conveniently, even if you are a beginner or an expert barista
• It has a sleek design
• Since it comes with an automatic stop flow feature, you can ensure that overflows will never happen again
• It is quite expensive

Gevi Commercial Professional Espresso Machine – Best Choice for Small Cafés and Home Baristas

If you’re looking for a professional-grade espresso machine that delivers café-quality drinks right at home, the Gevi Commercial Professional Stainless Steel Espresso Machine is worth considering.

This espresso maker is designed for both home users and small commercial settings, offering the ideal blend of performance, capacity, and elegant design. With its 15-bar Italian pump, it ensures optimal pressure for rich espresso extraction and a smooth crema every time.

One of the standout features of this machine is its dual temperature control system, allowing you to separately manage water and steam temperatures. This ensures that both your espresso and milk foam reach the perfect consistency. Its large 2.5-liter water tank is another great advantage, minimizing the need for constant refilling—ideal for busy mornings or when serving multiple guests.

Built with a durable stainless-steel body, the Gevi Espresso Machine not only looks sleek but also promises long-lasting performance. The professional steam wand gives you the freedom to create creamy cappuccinos, silky lattes, and other milk-based drinks with ease.

While this model comes with a slightly higher price tag compared to entry-level machines, its quality, consistency, and versatility make it a solid investment for coffee enthusiasts who want barista-level results at home.

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Key Features

• 15-Bar Professional Pump – Delivers the ideal pressure for rich flavor extraction and balanced espresso shots.
• Dual Temperature Control System – Separately adjusts water and steam temperatures for precision brewing.
• 2.5-Liter Removable Water Tank – Large capacity, easy to refill and clean.
• Professional Steam Wand – Perfect for creating frothed milk and latte art.
• Stainless-Steel Construction – Durable, elegant, and easy to maintain.
• Double Temperature Display – Offers clear visibility for both espresso and steam settings.
• Suitable for Home or Small Café Use – Powerful enough for light commercial settings.

When it comes to buying the best espresso machine for a small kitchen, there are a few important things you need to consider before making your purchase. Whether you are a beginner home barista or someone who wants to enjoy café-quality espresso without leaving the house, choosing the right model will make all the difference.

Here are some helpful tips to guide you in selecting the perfect home espresso maker for your needs:

Size and Design

If you live in a small apartment or have limited counter space, it’s essential to pick a compact espresso machine. Look for sleek, space-saving designs that won’t take up too much room on your kitchen counter. Models like the Nespresso Essenza Mini or the Breville Bambino Plus are great examples—they’re lightweight, portable, and easy to store.

Type of Espresso Machine

Espresso machines come in different types—manual, semi-automatic, fully automatic, and pod-based.

• Manual machines give you full control but require more skill.

• Semi-automatic machines like the Breville Infuser or Gevi Commercial Espresso Machine offer the perfect balance of control and convenience.

• Pod systems, such as the Nespresso Essenza Mini, are best for beginners who want quick, mess-free brewing.

Think about how much time and effort you’re willing to spend on making your espresso.

Pressure and Heating System

The pump pressure of an espresso machine is crucial for flavor extraction. Look for at least a 15-bar pump system, which ensures rich flavor and perfect crema. In addition, check for a fast-heating boiler or PID temperature control, which helps maintain consistent brewing temperature. Machines like the Gevi Commercial Espresso Machine or Breville Infuser feature advanced heating technology that guarantees stable performance.

Water Reservoir Capacity

If you make several cups of coffee throughout the day or often serve guests, a larger water tank will be more convenient. Machines with a 2-liter or more capacity, such as the Gevi Commercial Professional Espresso Machine, will save you from constant refilling.

Milk Frothing System

If you love cappuccinos, lattes, or macchiatos, choose a model with a steam wand or automatic milk frother. A high-quality frother helps create smooth, velvety foam. For example, the Breville Bambino Plus has an automatic microfoam feature that makes café-style milk drinks easy, even for beginners.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning your espresso machine regularly keeps your coffee fresh and your machine in top condition. Choose one with removable drip trays, detachable water tanks, and descaling functions. The Nespresso Essenza Mini includes a descaling feature that makes maintenance simple.

Budget and Warranty

Espresso machines come in various price ranges. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find affordable models like the KRUPS XP3208 that still deliver good results. For those willing to invest more, higher-end models like Gevi Commercial Professional or Breville Infuser offer premium performance and durability. Don’t forget to check the warranty period, as this can vary between manufacturers.

Choosing the best espresso machine for your small kitchen depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. If you’re just getting started, a compact and easy-to-use espresso maker will be the most practical choice. But if you’re aiming for professional-level quality and performance, investing in a semi-commercial espresso machine like the Gevi Commercial Professional Espresso Machine will definitely be worth it.

No matter which model you choose, having your own home espresso maker will let you enjoy fresh, flavorful espresso every day—without the daily trip to the coffee shop.

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