Best Espresso Makers for 2026

Pros

• + Brews espresso, regular coffee, and pod-compatible cups from one machine
• + Built-in frother handles milk drinks without a separate tool
• + Compact footprint for a multi-function machine
• + Straightforward digital controls

Cons

• – Espresso shots aren't as fine-tunable as dedicated semi-auto machines
• – Water reservoir needs frequent refilling with heavy daily use

Pros

• + No electricity needed — works on any stovetop
• + Simple three-chamber moka design with no learning curve beyond the basics
• + Compact and easy to pack for travel or camping

Cons

• – Requires monitoring on the stove to avoid over-extraction
• – Aluminum body needs hand-washing and careful drying

Pros

• + Built-in conical burr grinder dosing straight into the portafilter
• + Precise temperature control for consistent shots
• + Steam wand allows genuine microfoam texturing
• + Widely regarded as an entry point into serious home espresso

Cons

• – Steeper learning curve than pod or super-automatic machines
• – Larger footprint and higher price than basic espresso makers

Pros

• + The original, widely recognized octagonal moka pot design
• + Simple, durable aluminum construction with decades of proven use
• + 6-cup size suits sharing or back-to-back servings

Cons

• – Aluminum isn't dishwasher-safe and needs hand care
• – No safety auto shut-off, so it needs to be watched on the burner

Pros

• + Multiple brew styles including rich, over-ice, and specialty concentrated modes
• + Fold-away milk frother built into the machine
• + Large carafe suited to brewing for several people

Cons

• – Not a true espresso machine — concentrated brew mode approximates rather than replicates espresso
• – Larger unit needs more counter clearance

Pros

• + Compact semi-automatic machine with a steam wand for milk drinks
• + Removable water tank makes refilling easy
• + Comparatively affordable entry into semi-automatic espresso

Cons

• – No built-in grinder, so pre-ground or separately ground coffee is required
• – Steam wand takes some practice to texture milk well

Pros

• + Integrated, hands-free milk frothing system for lattes and cappuccinos
• + Multiple brew and espresso strength settings
• + Digital display simplifies switching between drink types

Cons

• – Larger, more complex machine with more parts to clean regularly
• – Premium price relative to simpler espresso makers

Pros

• + 12-cup glass carafe brews enough for a full household or guests
• + Programmable timer has coffee ready when you wake up
• + Stainless accents and hot plate keep the pot warm after brewing

Cons

• – Drip-only machine — no espresso or milk-drink capability
• – Takes up more counter space than single-serve brewers

Pros

• + Compact 5-cup (0.8 qt) size fits small kitchens and offices
• + Removable, reusable filter basket cuts out paper filters
• + Auto shut-off and brew-pause let you pour before the pot finishes

Cons

• – Small carafe means frequent rebrewing for bigger households
• – No programmable timer or strength settings