5 Best Small Espresso Machines in 2025

Looking for the best small espresso machine? Here’s what you need to know…

One night, I visited a friend who lives in a ridiculously small apartment. I mean, you stretch your arms, and boom, you’ve touched both walls. I figured he’d be stuck drinking instant coffee or weak pod machine espresso. But nope.

He had this tiny espresso machine sitting on his counter. I laughed and said, “There’s no way that thing makes good coffee.”

Then he handed me a shot: rich crema, deep flavor, smooth finish. I was floored. Turns out, that “little thing” was the Breville Bambino Plus—a small but mighty machine that changed my mind about compact espresso setups.

If you’re short on space but still want café-quality espresso, you’re in luck.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best small espresso machines, covering options for every budget and brewing style. So let’s start brewing!

What To Look for in a Small Espresso Machine?

Whether you’re working with a tiny kitchen, a dorm room, or want something compact for the office, here’s what matters:

1 – Size & Portability

First make sure it actually fits your counter! If you need something ultra-compact, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is a great pick, while the Breville Bambino Plus keeps things small but still packs a punch.

2 – Performance & Pressure

Look for at least 9 bars of pressure to get a proper espresso shot. Anything less, and you’ll end up with weak and watery coffee.

3 – Milk Frothing

Love lattes? Get a machine with a steam wand, like the De’Longhi Dedica EC685 or Breville Bambino Plus. If you don’t need milk frothing, a simple espresso-focused machine might be a better fit.

4 – Ease of Use & Cleaning

The easier, the better. Machines with simple controls and removable parts make cleanup a breeze. If you want a hassle-free option, the Jura ENA 4 takes care of everything, while pod-based machines like the Nespresso Essenza Mini keep things mess-free.

Top 5 Small Espresso Machines in 2025

These top picks deliver great espresso while saving space. So let’s see more details about each machine:

The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact yet powerful espresso machine that delivers high-end performance in a small footprint.

This machine has a rapid 3-second heat-up time, ensuring you can start brewing almost instantly. Unlike many small espresso machines, the 54mm portafilter provides even extraction. So, you get richer and more balanced shots.

One of its standout features is the automatic milk frothing system. You can easily create silky microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos without manual steaming skills.

It also has a low-pressure pre-infusion feature, which gradually increases water pressure to ensure even saturation of the coffee puck before full extraction.

Despite its small size, the Bambino Plus does not compromise on performance or speed. It includes a thermojet heating system.

In other words, you can pull shots and steam milk in quick succession without long wait times.

While it lacks some of the programmability of larger, more expensive machines, it’s a perfect balance of power, simplicity, and efficiency for small kitchens or tight spaces.

This sleek and compact machine is great for anyone who wants quality espresso without sacrificing counter space or breaking the bank.

Measuring a slim 6 inches in width, the Dedica EC685 is perfect for kitchens where space is at a premium. Also its stainless steel construction not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures durability.

Regardless of its compact size, this machine comes with a 15-bar pressure system. This helps you get authentic espresso with a rich crema.

One standout feature is its rapid heat-up time. Thanks to the Thermoblock technology, the Dedica is ready to brew in 35 seconds. So you’ll find it ideal for those hectic mornings when every second counts.

The user-friendly control panel features three illuminated buttons. You can choose between single or double espresso shots and easily operate the steam function.

The adjustable drip tray accommodates taller cups. So whether you’re pulling a shot into a demitasse or brewing a lungo in a larger mug, the Dedica has you covered.

If you enjoy milk-based drinks you’ll appreciate the manual steam wand. This lets you froth milk to your preferred texture, which is perfect for crafting cappuccinos, lattes, or flat whites.

The machine also offers customizable settings for water hardness and standby time, allowing you to personalize it to your preferences.

The Nespresso Essenza Mini is all about simplicity and efficiency. Weighing in at just 5.1 pounds and measuring a slim 4.3 x 8.1 x 12.8 inches. For this reason, it fits perfectly in small kitchens.

However, this machine doesn’t skimp on performance. It boasts a 19-bar pressure system, ensuring each shot of espresso is rich and flavorful.

One of the standout features is its rapid heat-up time. In under 30 seconds, the Essenza Mini is ready to brew.

Also, using it is easy with only two programmable buttons: one for espresso (1.35 ounces) and another for lungo (5 ounces). This straightforward interface means you can enjoy your preferred coffee style without hassle.

The water reservoir holds 20.3 ounces, which is modest but adequate for several servings before needing a refill.

However, depending on your counter setup, its placement at the back might require you to move the machine for refilling. Additionally, the used capsule container can accommodate up to six capsules. So regular emptying is part of the routine. ​

You also have two different aesthetic designs available. The Breville model offers a black, white, or gray rectangular shape.

Meanwhile the De’Longhi version features a more rounded design in vibrant colors like red and green. This variety lets you choose a style that best fits your kitchen decor.

This manual espresso machine stands out for its elegant design, portability, and unparalleled control over the brewing process.

Unlike traditional electric machines, the Flair requires no electricity. So you can brew authentic espresso anywhere you have access to hot water.​

The Flair is constructed with a forged aluminum base and stainless steel components. So, you can expect a durable machine.

Its detachable brewing head is a unique feature, simplifying the cleaning process and enhancing portability. The entire device can be disassembled and packed into a custom carrying case. This makes it ideal for travel or compact kitchens. ​

This hands-on approach gives you a real feel for the art of espresso making. A lot of people find it enjoyable because it lets them tweak things like grind size, tamping pressure, and extraction time to nail the perfect shot.

One of the standout features of the Flair is its ability to produce high-quality espresso shots that rival those from more expensive electric machines.

The manual lever mechanism allows for precise pressure control, which is essential for good espresso extraction. However, it’s worth noting that the Flair does not include a built-in grinder or milk frother.

So, to get the best out of it, you’ll want to grab a good burr grinder since a consistent grind makes a huge difference in your espresso quality.

This machine is perfect for anyone who wants great coffee with just one touch. One of the standout features of the ENA 4 is its minimalist design. Measuring just 10.7 inches in width, 12.7 inches in height, and 17.5 inches in depth.

For this reason, it fits easily comfortably on most countertops without hogging space. The machine comes in two stylish colors: Metropolitan Black and Nordic White. The diamond-faceted water reservoir adds a touch of elegance and is practical for easy refilling. ​

When it comes to brewing, the ENA 4 doesn’t disappoint. It’s equipped with Jura’s Aroma G3 grinder, which ensures fast and precise grinding, preserving the aroma of your coffee beans.

The machine offers three strength levels. This allows you to personalize your brew to your preferences. Additionally, Jura’s Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) optimizes extraction time, ensuring a rich and flavorful espresso shot every time. ​

One of the best things about the ENA 4 is how easy it is to use. The simple button interface makes brewing your favorite coffee simple. Plus, it has a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee—perfect for switching things up with decaf.

However, it’s worth noting that the ENA 4 focuses solely on black coffee specialties and doesn’t include a built-in milk frothing system. ​

Last Thoughts

Well, choosing the right machine depends on what you want. If you want a high-performance machine with fast heat-up time and excellent milk frothing, the Breville Bambino Plus is a solid pick.

On a budget? The De’Longhi Dedica EC685 offers great value without taking up much space.

If convenience is your priority, the Nespresso Essenza Mini makes espresso effortless with the push of a button.

Meanwhile, the Flair Espresso Maker is perfect for hands-on enthusiasts who love full control over their shots. Otherwise, if you prefer something that isn’t complicated, the Jura ENA 4 fully automatic machine is your best bet.

Still unsure which one to choose? Have a favorite compact espresso machine I didn’t mention? I’d like to read your comment below and with that voilà!