Many people love to kickstart their day with a rich cup of coffee, but there’s a unique charm to a shot of espresso, perfect for an afternoon boost or as a sophisticated ingredient in an after-dinner espresso martini. While traditional espresso machines can be large, complex, and pricey, the best Single Serve Espresso Machines offer a compact solution, often with the simplicity of just pressing a button.
“Espresso machines can generally be categorized into manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic types,” explains Heather Calatrello, owner and head roaster at ShedLight Coffee. “For those seeking the ultimate convenience, fully automatic machines are ideal. However, for most home users, a semi-automatic machine strikes a good balance between ease of use and affordability.”
Regardless of your preference, the top single serve espresso machines should consistently deliver excellent results without the bulk and complicated operation of larger models. We rigorously tested numerous espresso machines, evaluating them on design, user-friendliness, and overall performance. With expert guidance from Calatrello, we’ve curated a list of the best single serve espresso machines available.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine at Amazon $486
Best Value:
SALE
De’Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine at Amazon $100 $74
Best Splurge:
SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Coffee Machine at Amazon $1,071
Best Nespresso:
SALE
Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe by Breville at Amazon $199 $140
Best Portable:
AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press at Amazon $50
Best Stovetop:
Bialetti Moka Express at Amazon $40
Best Overall
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
PHOTO: Breville
$486 at Amazon $500 at Williams Sonoma $500 at Sur La Table
Pros: The Bambino is user-friendly, compact, and features an exceptional milk frother.
Cons: Lacks variable grind control settings, requiring a separate grinder for precise adjustments.
The Bambino stands out as our top pick for a single serve espresso machine. Its ability to automatically brew one or two shots at the touch of a button makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced espresso lovers seeking a quick and easy single serving. This user-friendly machine boasts a simple control panel with just five buttons. Its compact and lightweight design allows it to fit seamlessly into any kitchen, whether tucked away or proudly displayed on your countertop.
During our tests, we were impressed by its small footprint without compromising on sturdiness and durability. The well-designed automatic milk frother is a standout feature, ideal for those who prefer hands-free milk frothing. While it doesn’t offer grind control settings, its performance with pre-ground coffee or coffee from a separate grinder is exceptional. Overall, the Bambino delivers a premium single serve coffee experience in a compact form. It’s worth noting that we’ve even compared it favorably against other machines like the Breville Bambino Plus vs. De’Longhi Dedica Maestro, further solidifying its position as a top single serve espresso machine.
Dimensions: 7.6 x 12.5 x 12.2 inches | Type: Manual | Coffee Source: Grounds | Milk Frother: Yes
- [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-breville-bambino-plus-nsimpson-008-ab09d761ce3c452da2431cac5960b4a0.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/szZQqLjP5WJfKmveXpVRDVHDUcs=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-breville-bambino-plus-nsimpson-008-ab09d761ce3c452da2431cac5960b4a0.jpeg)
This fully automatic single serve espresso machine features five user-friendly buttons on its control panel. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-breville-bambino-plus-nsimpson-013-a327e7ccd1084f66884cc9dbf19ecbe9.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/V3Swf-jdbNpLZNwGRt_pOfwYfcg=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-breville-bambino-plus-nsimpson-013-a327e7ccd1084f66884cc9dbf19ecbe9.jpeg)
The 54mm portafilter of this single serve espresso machine is compatible with various coffee grind sizes. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-detail-breville-bambino-plus-espresso-machine-nsimpson-523-8a35f15523f648a28e9ffa869c7b7556.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/mqkRVN-EQaW17Dn6LvpBy3oeAQQ=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-detail-breville-bambino-plus-espresso-machine-nsimpson-523-8a35f15523f648a28e9ffa869c7b7556.jpeg)
The integrated steam wand of the Breville Bambino Plus consistently produced perfectly frothed milk during our testing. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-breville-bambino-plus-nsimpson-037-471f9bec73194c919b4fbf8b5464ccd8.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/rXn0uwULLXernguibRf-r5FijnA=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-breville-bambino-plus-nsimpson-037-471f9bec73194c919b4fbf8b5464ccd8.jpeg)
This single serve espresso machine’s steam wand ensures incredibly foamed milk with a silky smooth texture. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-detail-breville-bambino-plus-espresso-machine-nsimpson-518-e0aac1c1f8054e498eb1462776bdd1ba.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/g_mhIqC2gy8CYdXzFBhdPzX7rWo=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-detail-breville-bambino-plus-espresso-machine-nsimpson-518-e0aac1c1f8054e498eb1462776bdd1ba.jpeg)
The 64-ounce water tank of this Breville single serve espresso machine is easily removable from the back. PHOTO: Food & Wine
Best Value
De’Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine
PHOTO: Amazon
$100 $74 at Amazon $83 at Target $74 at Wayfair
Pros: Excellent value for a manual single serve machine.
Cons: Plastic body feels less premium compared to other models.
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, the De’Longhi Stilosa is a fantastic budget-friendly single serve espresso machine with a small footprint. This compact machine allows you to brew either a single or double shot of espresso, perfect for enjoying in a stylish espresso cup. It also includes a built-in milk frother and a dual-level cup holder to accommodate various mug sizes.
During our testing, mastering the correct pressure and water flow required some practice. However, we found that the resulting espresso shots were consistently excellent. While there’s a slight learning curve for those new to manual espresso machines, the straightforward design of the De’Longhi will have you brewing quickly. The package includes all essential accessories to get started – simply add your preferred espresso grounds to enjoy single serve espresso at home.
Dimensions: 8.07 x 13.5 x 11.22 inches | Type: Manual | Coffee source: Grounds | Milk frother: Yes
- [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-product-delonghi-stilosa-manual-espresso-machine-nsimpson-184-faa6bb707ef74284946c4337cf0d6296.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/o6Y1H3dbGmu3XNZLeZaaNnLNo2M=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-product-delonghi-stilosa-manual-espresso-machine-nsimpson-184-faa6bb707ef74284946c4337cf0d6296.jpeg)
The De’Longhi Stilosa single serve espresso machine has a sleek design and a compact size perfect for countertops. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-571-574f606fc6114ece8463bf424cf78420.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/KKrnwftZVaIManTXXKN_FERLnQE=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-571-574f606fc6114ece8463bf424cf78420.jpeg)
This single serve espresso maker includes a portafilter with filters for both single and double shots, along with a tamper. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-584-13fa2c1da3644eecabc0f0f20a234773.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/Ia-NR3uPkkthtf5ooCqgVn3PJJM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-584-13fa2c1da3644eecabc0f0f20a234773.jpeg)
The De’Longhi Stilosa provides optimal pressure for single serve espresso extraction, offering both single and double shot options. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-603-50c04a3008f34a7d90c725f3863f2e16.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/TiyNxxFCWF1OpZLUStiH7qz1esc=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-603-50c04a3008f34a7d90c725f3863f2e16.jpeg)
This single serve machine includes a built-in milk frother and steam wand; milk pitcher is not included. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-560-ea62f4eb0c124de38f32e85a501c343b.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/zFd9mi9LGkrgvyFqRN3gsyuaY3U=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-delonghi-stilosa-manual-nsimpson-560-ea62f4eb0c124de38f32e85a501c343b.jpeg)
Close up view of the De’Longhi Stilosa single serve espresso machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine
Best Splurge
SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Coffee Machine
PHOTO: Williams Sonoma
$1,071 at Amazon View on Smeg.com $600 at West Elm
Pros: Most consistent performance among semi and super-automatic single serve machines.
Cons: Milk wand is short, and a milk jug is not included.
The Smeg Medium Fully-Automatic Coffee Machine beautifully blends retro aesthetics with modern minimalism, earning near-perfect scores in our tests. If you desire an exceptionally easy-to-use automatic single serve espresso machine, the Smeg is highly recommended. It features a fully automated brewing process controlled by a simple 5-button panel. Despite its initially boxy appearance, it has a compact footprint, easily fitting into any coffee bar setup.
As one of the most user-friendly single serve espresso machines we tested, it handles everything from grinding beans and tamping espresso to steaming milk. We found it consistently produced well-balanced espresso shots with every brew. While the milk wand could be longer, its overall ease of use and performance make it an excellent choice, even for those new to espresso. Its consistent performance and user-friendliness justify its place as our best splurge for a single serve espresso machine.
Dimensions: 13.25 x 7 x 17 inches | Type: Automatic | Coffee source: Grounds | Milk frother: Yes
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Hand pressing a button on the top of the SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Single Serve Coffee Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-1017-9ed0b45fa87a4c4c8e8c8015c9c49ba5.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/evb38pP4k0RrVb_Aay6h6NR4G-A=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-1017-9ed0b45fa87a4c4c8e8c8015c9c49ba5.jpeg)
Person watching the SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Single Serve Coffee Machine effortlessly brew espresso. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-998-662042babe714b40a8206ede395e25f6.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/5HH8mQcKxurYkPph_mqmq5ZfupA=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-998-662042babe714b40a8206ede395e25f6.jpeg)
Close-up of the user-friendly control panel with push button settings on the SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Single Serve Coffee Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-1027-b2b96bbd2cd740f29e9ba418f4f3ad3e.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/gyPqo_KNa4FvMZx9r0lF0_H7kJk=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-1027-b2b96bbd2cd740f29e9ba418f4f3ad3e.jpeg)
Hands using the milk wand on the SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Single Serve Coffee Machine to create silky milk foam. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-992-e2e0e44936724d39abec3bf02e7b6e90.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/BotuUmJSnjUG2USJahdhIEUr42g=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-992-e2e0e44936724d39abec3bf02e7b6e90.jpeg)
Hand pouring coffee beans into the integrated burr grinder of the SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Single Serve Coffee Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-989-afd9c45466dc48a1b1593dcf2ff348e1.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/-gPD7kXaJu_mnOpNr95Hv8Y3a-k=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-espresso-machines-test-smeg-automatic-coffee-machine-milk-frothing-nsimpson-989-afd9c45466dc48a1b1593dcf2ff348e1.jpeg)
Hand removing the easy-to-fill water tank from the SMEG Medium Fully-Automatic Single Serve Coffee Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine
Best Nespresso
Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe by Breville
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PHOTO: Amazon
$199 $140 at Amazon $187 at Target $200 at Williams Sonoma
Pros: User-friendly single serve pod machine with integrated pod storage.
Cons: Exclusively compatible with Nespresso Vertuo pods.
Also featured as a top choice in our best Nespresso machines guide, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe is a standout single serve espresso machine due to its simplicity and consistent quality. In our evaluations, we found this machine highly versatile, capable of brewing both espresso and coffee in four different sizes. The generous 60-ounce water tank minimizes refill frequency. Whether brewing espresso or a full cup of coffee, the VertuoPlus consistently delivered smooth, aromatic drinks.
While it exclusively uses Vertuo Nespresso pods, a wide variety is available, and the VertuoPlus offers convenient built-in pod storage. With settings for 5-ounce coffee, 8-ounce coffee, single espresso, and double espresso, your beverage is ready at the touch of a button. This compact, user-friendly, and high-quality single serve espresso machine is an excellent pod-based option.
Dimensions: 5.5 x 16.9 x 12.4 inches | Type: Automatic | Coffee source: Pods | Milk frother: No; sold separately
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Hand placing a Nespresso Vertuo pod into the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Single Serve Espresso Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2401-e17c6db73346410d8effee109fa9fe11.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/BPVNNxYoAGrbExrY0h185PB_U1U=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2401-e17c6db73346410d8effee109fa9fe11.jpeg)
Hand holding the built-in pod storage compartment of the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Single Serve Espresso Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2211-849b66e4a93d452cade35c8d5c8c5023.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/RWd-BIeftY7ju7R4Up8Od2czfWs=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2211-849b66e4a93d452cade35c8d5c8c5023.jpeg)
Hand holding a mug filled with freshly brewed coffee from the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Single Serve Espresso Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2161-8d94c5b56a3841158d5c0bd01df66658.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/7SUv-g-6vdna6ajQjHqp9jBCc6U=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2161-8d94c5b56a3841158d5c0bd01df66658.jpeg)
Close-up of a hand adding a Vertuo pod to the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Single Serve Espresso Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2171-32cd58ad66f44424b7df1d829cdebfe8.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/jAIzllXeDeHMYR4lNEzh4GMBoFY=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-2171-32cd58ad66f44424b7df1d829cdebfe8.jpeg)
Hand holding a mug as coffee pours from the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Single Serve Espresso Machine. PHOTO: Food & Wine - [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-238-094b40f460664898970f12996ca60f85.jpeg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/c2AHAtG-eODJsas4dzlEVktQt24=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-nespresso-machines-june-24-test-vertuoplus-deluxe-breville-nsimpson-238-094b40f460664898970f12996ca60f85.jpeg)
Hand removing the used pod container from the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Single Serve Espresso Machine for easy disposal. PHOTO: Food & Wine
Best Portable
AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press
PHOTO: Amazon
$50 at Amazon $50 at REI $50 at Target
Pros: Portable and lightweight single serve kit, includes all necessary components except coffee.
Cons: May require some experimentation to perfect coffee-to-water ratios.
Whether you need a camping coffee maker or a discreet espresso setup at your workplace, the AeroPress Go is the top choice for portable single serve coffee brewing. Its 10-ounce capacity allows you to brew various amounts of coffee, including a quick espresso shot. In our AeroPress tests, we appreciated the convenience and simplicity of this manual press for pour-over coffee, cold brew, lattes, and single or double shots of espresso.
The AeroPress Go kit includes everything you need, and its intuitive design means the primary adjustment is finding your ideal coffee-to-water ratio. The kit is thoughtfully designed for compact storage, with all components fitting neatly inside the mug and lid, eliminating the need for counter space. It’s the perfect single serve solution for coffee on the go.
Dimensions: 4.75 x 4.75 x 11.75 inches | Type: Manual | Coffee source: Grounds | Milk frother: No
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TTF-AeroPress-tout-8492443c117a491da9c478c7070475f1.jpg)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/0wgZm14ztrBDkCrqMrJGozAFcIE=/750×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TTF-AeroPress-tout-8492443c117a491da9c478c7070475f1.jpg)
Food & Wine
Best Stovetop
Bialetti Moka Express
PHOTO: Amazon
$40 $38 at Amazon $38 at Target $40 at Williams Sonoma
Pros: Classic and iconic single serve espresso maker, still relevant in modern kitchens.
Cons: Aluminum body can impart a flavor that might not appeal to everyone.
For purists or those seeking a simpler approach, the classic Moka pot remains an excellent way to brew quality single serve espresso at home. No complex machinery is required; simply place the Moka Express on your stovetop and let the heat work its magic. While it might not be the ideal choice for complex barista-style drinks, its ease of use and compact size make it hard to beat for straightforward single serve espresso.
In our tests, we found the Bialetti quite easy to use—fill the base with water, add your grounds, screw on the top, and place it on the stove. Be aware that the aluminum body becomes very hot, so handle with caution. This stovetop method provides a unique and traditional single serve espresso experience.
Dimensions: 5.51 x 3.94 x 6.69 inches | Type: Manual | Coffee source: Grounds | Milk frother: No
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bialetti-moka-express-6-cup-ashley-rodriguez017-f36b7a0541d0419bb4ad2a7874de2d65.JPG)](https://www.foodandwine.com/thmb/dHkST_w1AcAmufMa4LC20gsjB4g=/750×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bialetti-moka-express-6-cup-ashley-rodriguez017-f36b7a0541d0419bb4ad2a7874de2d65.JPG)
Food & Wine
Our Favorite Single Serve Espresso Machines
Our top single serve espresso machine is the Breville Bambino because it’s user-friendly, compact, and the milk frother works exceptionally well for single servings. The Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine is an excellent pod-based option for single servings if you prioritize simplicity. For a splurge-worthy single serve experience, we recommend the Smeg Medium Fully-Automatic Coffee Machine.
How We Tested Single Serve Espresso Machines
As part of our extensive espresso machine testing, covering automatic machines, budget espresso makers, and everything in between, we analyzed our testing data to identify the best single serve espresso machines from our selections. These machines range from manual single-cup presses to fully automatic espresso machines, but share a common trait: they all fit easily within a standard kitchen cabinet, making them ideal single serve options for smaller spaces.
Each recommended single serve espresso machine features a compact footprint and lightweight design. In our tests, we evaluated each machine based on these criteria:
- Setup: Each single serve machine underwent three tests to assess setup, espresso shot performance, and milk steaming/frothing capabilities. We also recorded the time taken for each process.
- Ease of Use: The first test evaluated the setup difficulty, time consumption, and beginner-friendliness. We followed manufacturer instructions, explored machine settings, and completed the cleaning/flushing cycle. Ease of setup is crucial for home-use recommendations, especially for single serve machines.
- Consistency: The second test assessed consistency and ease of use in pulling espresso shots. We adhered to manufacturer guidelines and optimized water temperature/preheating. We prepared a double shot and programmed settings as applicable, evaluating crema, body, and taste. Points were deducted for under-extracted (watery, sour) or over-extracted (syrupy, bitter) espresso. Well-balanced results earned top marks. Each machine was used for six shots to account for user adjustments.
- Milk Frothing: The final test evaluated milk steaming and frothing performance for machines with this feature, focusing on temperature, speed to desired result, and consistency of froth/steam.
Factors to Consider
Type
Consider your preferred level of involvement: manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic. Do you prefer push-button convenience for a quick single serve espresso, or do you enjoy a more hands-on barista experience each time you brew? Manual machines require more effort but are preferred by some.
Versatility
What’s your typical coffee drink? If you prefer black coffee or straight espresso shots, a milk frother might be less important. If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos with your single serve espresso, prioritize a machine with milk frothing capabilities and versatile settings.
Pressure
“Pressure is essential for the rich crema unique to espresso,” notes Calatrello. “Pressure is measured in bars, with many machines advertising 15, 18, or even 20 bars. However, nine bars is actually the optimal pressure for espresso extraction,” especially important for consistent single serve quality.
Size
Espresso machines can be bulky, especially models with milk frothers, grinders, or large water reservoirs. While dimensions are provided for each model, ensure you choose a single serve espresso machine that fits your available counter or storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do you use an espresso machine for a single serving?
Each machine operates differently; consult the manual for best results. Pod machines typically require just a button press after pod insertion. Traditional machines need a more hands-on approach, but are still manageable for single servings.Manual machines require bean measurement and grinding, water addition, tamping grounds, machine reassembly, and shot pulling. Machine operation varies, so always read instructions thoroughly for single serve brewing.
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How do you descale a single serve espresso machine?
Refer to your instruction manual first. Descaling solutions or a 50/50 water/distilled vinegar mix can be run through the machine every 1-2 months, depending on usage, to maintain optimal condition. Regular descaling is important for single serve machines to ensure longevity and performance. -
What grind size is best for a single serve espresso machine?
“For espresso, a fine grind is needed,” says Calatrello. “The grounds should be slightly finer than table salt. This grind works for espresso machines, stovetop Moka pots, and Aeropress coffee makers,” ensuring ideal extraction for single serve brewing. -
How much caffeine is in a single shot of espresso?
A single shot of espresso contains approximately 63 mg of caffeine. An 8-ounce coffee cup typically has around 96 mg, making a single coffee cup stronger than a single espresso shot. Single serve espresso allows for controlled caffeine intake.
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