Compact coffee machines are a game-changer for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices where counter space is at a premium. In 2025, the market offers a range of high-performing, space-saving options that deliver barista-quality coffee without dominating your workspace. From pod-based convenience to semi-automatic espresso machines, we’ve scoured expert reviews and hands-on tests to bring you the top eight small coffee machines. This guide includes detailed recommendations, pros and cons, and a FAQ to help you choose the perfect brewer for your needs.
1. Nespresso Essenza Mini
We recommend the Essenza Mini because it’s compact, efficient, and easy to use. This no-frills workhorse coffee grinder produces a super consistent grind. At just 33cm deep and 12cm wide, its countertop footprint is one of the smallest of all the coffee machines tested, yet brews single espresso with 10 bars of pressure to produce rich, flavourful coffee. If a longer short or lungo shots is your favourite, this is the perfect machine.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact design fits tiny spaces.
- Quick brewing with consistent espresso quality.
- Eco-friendly with Nespresso’s recycling program.
Cons:
- Limited to Nespresso pods, which can be pricey.
- Small water tank requires frequent refills.
2. Breville Bambino
If you’d love a Sage machine, but don’t want to pay the big bucks then buy the Bambino. If you have a grinder already, then you’re onto a winner with this espresso machine and if not, you can use ground coffee instead. In our tests, it made amazing espresso and the steam wand is very quick to heat. It’s small, unobtrusive and is speedy to pre-heat – everything you need for a perfect espresso machine. It comes with the same cup holder on top, the sturdy backlit buttons and a removable water tank that makes it easy to fill up despite the smaller size.
Pros:
- Powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
- Fast preheat and intuitive controls.
- Works with ground coffee or separate grinder.
Cons:
- Low-hanging filter can obstruct taller mugs.
- No milk jug included, requiring separate purchase.
3. Nespresso Vertuo Pop
For those working with a smaller budget, this more affordable edition within Nespresso’s Vertuo range is a stylish addition to any countertop. Available in six colours, it has an attractive body with rounded edges and an easy to use push-button interface, but what stands out to us most is the quality of the espresso. The coffee we brewed in the Vertuo Pop was rich and dark, with a thick, silky crema and light touch of acidity. Setting it up was a bit more of a faff – the manual is large and features all the models within the Vertuo range, which means a chunk of the information included isn’t relevant to this machine.
Pros:
- Sleek design with multiple color options.
- High-quality espresso with rich crema.
- Simple one-button operation.
Cons:
- Confusing manual with irrelevant details.
- Limited to Vertuo pods, increasing long-term costs.
4. AeroPress
Coffee is a serious necessity for some, and the AeroPress is small, simplesix, portable, and easy-to-use way to brew a highly competitive, frothy cup of coffee somewhere between a French press and an espresso. When we tested the best single-serve coffee makers, we discovered that AeroPress’s unique design is perfect for brewing a single cup of coffee, with a rich and complex flavor that blows away pod-based machines. The manual brewing process allowed us to control every major variable in our tests, like grind coarseness, water temperature, and steep time. That much control means that any home barista can create a flavorful, fully extracted cup of coffee that’s leagues better than anything brewed from a pod.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight, ideal for travel.
- Full control over brewing variables.
- Produces rich, complex coffee flavors.
Cons:
- Requires single-use filters.
- Learning curve for optimal results.
5. De’Longhi La Specialista Touch
If your kitchen is as small as mine, the De’Longhi La Specialista Touch is one of the best espresso machines you can buy. It took seconds to set up this machine, and we were able to create barista-quality coffee quickly. The steam wand took moments to get up to temperature and enabled us to create dense microfoam easily in the metal milk jug that’s included. All the accessories felt great quality, right down to the metal weighted tamper. We also liked the small footprint of this appliance – for a bean-to-cup machine, it didn’t take up too much space on our kitchen counter.
Pros:
- Quick setup and barista-quality results.
- High-quality accessories, including milk jug.
- Compact for a bean-to-cup machine.
Cons:
- Higher price point than pod machines.
- Requires regular cleaning of bean grinder.
6. Keurig K-Mini
If you just want small quantities of coffee, though, we’d recommend a single-serve coffee maker from Keurig or Nespresso. It’s a little on the pricey side compared with other models that perform just as well—but as a drip coffee maker brand, Keurig receives high ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction. Its rounded statement handle lifts and lowers to lock the capsules into place. The K-Mini is compact, so won’t take up too much space in your kitchen. Cheap to buy – some cost as little as £40. Quick, simple and consistent results, with little clean-up required.
Pros:
- Affordable and reliable single-serve brewer.
- Minimal cleanup with pod system.
- Compact design for small spaces.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Pods are less eco-friendly than ground coffee.
7. Smeg ECF02 Espresso Machine
Smeg is well known for producing sophisticated gadgets with a 1950s aesthetic, and this espresso machine is no different. It feels like an upgrade from the ECF01 as it comes with an integrated bean grinder with automatic dosing, so you can enjoy fresh coffee in every cup you make. Other accessories include a stainless steel milk jug and 58mm portafilter, which has cushioning underneath to aid with tamping. The machine is small enough to fit on most countertops while delivering professional-grade espresso.
Pros:
- Stylish retro design with integrated grinder.
- Includes high-quality accessories.
- Compact yet powerful for espresso.
Cons:
- Premium price for aesthetic appeal.
- Grinder settings may need frequent tweaking.
8. Casabrews 20 Bar Espresso Machine
Although it lacks some of the bells and whistles we love about more premium coffee makers, the Casabrews on quality extraction and surprising value for money. Paired with a good grinder, you’ll be able to make some brilliant espresso. The built-in pressure gauge provides useful feedback and we have to give a hat tip its powerful steam wand, which outperformed some machines that cost hundreds of dollars more. And finally: it has one of the smallest countertop footprints of any machine we’ve seen.
Pros:
- Excellent value with strong extraction.
- Powerful steam wand for the price.
- Ultra-small footprint.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features of pricier models.
- Occasionally out of stock.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Small Coffee Machine
Types of Coffee Machines
- Pod Machines: The simplest option, offering convenience and consistency. They’re smaller and cheaper than bean-to-cup machines, though pods can be pricier than beans or grounds. Ideal for quick, hassle-free coffee.
- Espresso Machines: These use ground coffee or beans, offering more control over your brew. They’re often compact and affordable but require more effort than pod machines.
- Manual Brewers: Devices like the AeroPress give you full control over brewing variables, producing rich flavors. They’re portable but involve a hands-on process.
- Bean-to-Cup Machines: These grind fresh beans for each cup, delivering superior flavor. They’re pricier and slightly larger but still compact enough for small spaces.
Key Features to Consider
- Size and Footprint: Ensure the machine fits your counter space. Models like the Nespresso Essenza Mini and Casabrews are among the smallest.
- Ease of Use: Pod machines like the Keurig K-Mini are foolproof, while espresso machines like the Breville Bambino may have a learning curve.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Look for automatic cleaning programs or dishwasher-safe parts. Manual brewers like the AeroPress require more hands-on cleaning.
- Milk Frothing: If you love cappuccinos or lattes, choose a machine with a steam wand (e.g., De’Longhi La Specialista Touch) or built-in frother.
- Water Tank Capacity: Smaller tanks (common in compact models) need frequent refills, which can be inconvenient for heavy users.
- Environmental Impact: Pod machines generate waste, but brands like Nespresso offer recycling programs. Manual brewers and bean-to-cup machines are more eco-friendly.
Budget Considerations
- Under $100: Keurig K-Mini and AeroPress offer great value for basic brewing.
- $100-$300: Nespresso Essenza Mini, Vertuo Pop, and Casabrews deliver quality espresso on a moderate budget.
- $300+: Breville Bambino, De’Longhi La Specialista Touch, and Smeg ECF02 cater to enthusiasts seeking premium features.
FAQ
What’s the smallest coffee machine available in 2025?
The Nespresso Essenza Mini has one of the smallest footprints, measuring just 33cm deep and 12cm wide, making it ideal for tiny kitchens or dorms.
Are pod machines worth it for small spaces?
Yes, pod machines like the Nespresso Vertuo Pop and Keurig K-Mini are compact, easy to use, and require minimal cleanup, making them perfect for small spaces. However, the ongoing cost of pods and environmental concerns are drawbacks.
Can I make lattes with a compact coffee machine?
Many compact machines, such as the Breville Bambino, De’Longhi La Specialista Touch, and Smeg ECF02, have steam wands for frothing milk, allowing you to make lattes and cappuccinos.
How do I maintain a small coffee machine?
Regularly descale the machine (every 3-6 months, depending on water hardness), clean removable parts, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guide. Machines with automatic cleaning programs, like some bean-to-cup models, simplify upkeep.
Which is better: pod or espresso machine?
Pod machines are more convenient and compact, ideal for quick coffee with minimal effort. Espresso machines offer better flavor customization and are more cost-effective long-term but require more skill and maintenance.
This guide is designed to help you find a small coffee machine that fits your lifestyle, whether you prioritize convenience, flavor, or aesthetics. For more coffee-related reviews, check out Wirecutter, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide.