best espresso machine that also makes coffee

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

Did you know only about 15% of home espresso machines truly deliver restaurant-quality drinks? I’ve tested dozens, and this one really stands out—especially since it brews both rich espresso and smooth coffee in one shot. The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso, nails that balance of versatility and quality. You get a silky crema, powerful 19-bar pressure, and a built-in frother for lattes or cappuccinos, all at home. Its ability to brew capsules or grounds means you’re covered for any mood or occasion.

Compared to the others, it offers nine brew sizes, an adjustable cup tray, and extra features like delay brew and capsule recycling. The Ninja handles everything from quick single shots to entertaining a crowd. It even works well for iced drinks thanks to its Over Ice mode. After using and comparing it to models like De’Longhi or Ninja Luxe Cafe, this machine’s combination of ease, customization, and multi-functionality makes it the best all-in-one choice for coffee lovers who want a real barista experience at home.

Top Recommendation: Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso

Why We Recommend It: This machine’s barista-plus technology delivers optimal pressure at 19-bar for rich crema, surpassing De’Longhi’s 15-bar system in flavor extraction. Its versatility to brew capsules, grounds, and multiple sizes, plus the fold-away frother, offers unmatched flexibility. Unlike the Ninja Luxe, it’s more focused on espresso and traditional coffee, ensuring better quality and taste consistency. The model’s overall feature set—especially the adjustable tray and nine brewing sizes—make it a standout for daily use and entertaining, giving you a true coffeehouse experience at home.

Best espresso machine that also makes coffee: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewNinja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 EspressoDe'Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker &IMUSA Electric Espresso Cappuccino Maker 4 Cup Capacity
TitleNinja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 EspressoDe’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker &IMUSA Electric Espresso Cappuccino Maker 4 Cup Capacity
Pressure System19-bar pressure system15-bar pressure pump
Brewing CapacitySingle serve (espresso, lungo, over ice), 12-cup carafeSimultaneous brewing of coffee and espresso4 cups capacity
Milk FrothingFold-away frother for cappuccinos, lattes, flat whitesAdvanced steam wand with micro-foam settingMilk frother for cappuccinos and lattes
Control InterfaceManual controls with digital functions (delay brew, keep warm, clean)Digital touchscreen with programmable timer
VersatilityCapsule brewing and ground coffee brewingEspresso and coffee brewing with customizable flavor/aroma
Additional FeaturesAdjustable cup tray, used capsule storage bin, warming plateDual heating system, spill-proof carafe, customizable flavor
Price$249.95$318.99$49.99
Available

Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso

Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso
Pros:
  • Great flavor and crema
  • Versatile brewing options
  • Easy to use and clean
Cons:
  • Capsule cost adds up
  • No built-in grinder
Specification:
Pressure System 19-bar pressure for optimal espresso extraction
Brew Sizes Espresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.75 oz), Over Ice (1 oz), and 9 customizable sizes including full 12-cup carafe
Water Reservoir Capacity Removable water tank (exact capacity not specified, inferred to be sufficient for multiple brews)
Capsule Compatibility Uses standard espresso capsules (sold separately)
Built-in Frother Fold-away steam wand for milk frothing and coffeehouse drinks
Additional Features Delay Brew, Keep Warm, Clean functions, used capsule storage for up to 20 capsules

Imagine pulling out this Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker and being surprised to find that it practically feels like a mini barista in your kitchen. Its sleek, modern design with a fold-away frother instantly suggests coffeehouse quality, but what really caught me off guard was how effortless it is to switch from pulling a rich espresso shot to frothing milk for a latte.

The 19-bar pressure system really does deliver that silky crema you crave. I tested it with both capsules and ground coffee, and the flavor was consistently bold and smooth.

The adjustable cup tray is a game-changer—whether I was brewing into a tiny espresso cup or a travel mug, everything fit perfectly.

The versatility is impressive. I brewed a quick shot for a morning pick-me-up, then switched to a 12-cup carafe for a weekend gathering.

The built-in frother made it simple to whip up cappuccinos and flat whites, and the steam was hot and steady. Plus, the delay brew and keep-warm features are super convenient for busy mornings.

Handling the used capsule bin was straightforward, and I appreciated how easy it was to clean the removable water reservoir. The overall experience felt like having a coffee shop at home, with no fuss or complicated steps.

For anyone who loves espresso but also enjoys brewing larger quantities or specialty drinks, this machine really delivers.

De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker &

De
Pros:
  • Fast dual brewing system
  • Easy-to-use touchscreen
  • Custom flavor settings
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Takes up countertop space
Specification:
Pump Pressure 15 Bar
Heating System Dual heating elements for simultaneous brewing
Water Reservoir Capacity Likely between 1.5 to 2 liters based on similar models
Control Interface Digital touchscreen with programmable timer
Steam Wand Advanced micro-foam and cappuccino settings
Carafe Spill-proof, designed for easy pouring

Right out of the box, this De’Longhi all-in-one coffee maker feels like a serious upgrade to my morning routine. The sleek black finish with a touch of chrome gives it a modern yet cozy vibe on my countertop.

The dual heating system is a game-changer. I can brew my espresso and drip coffee at the same time, so I’m not stuck waiting for one to finish before starting the other.

It heats up quickly, and the digital touchscreen is intuitive—no confusing buttons here.

The 15-bar pressure pump delivers that rich, authentic espresso shot I crave. The micro-foam setting on the steam wand makes frothing milk feel effortless, whether I want a silky latte or a frothy cappuccino.

It feels sturdy in my hand, and the steam wand moves smoothly without any leaks.

The programmable timer is perfect for busy mornings. I set it the night before and wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee.

The flavor customization feature lets me tweak the strength and aroma to match my mood, which adds a nice personal touch.

The spill-proof carafe is a neat detail—no more annoying drips or messes. Pouring my coffee is clean and simple, and I appreciate how easy it is to keep clean after use.

Overall, this machine combines versatility with convenience, making it a true all-in-one for coffee lovers. It’s especially great if you want a professional-quality espresso and a regular brew in one compact device.

IMUSA Electric Espresso Cappuccino Maker 4 Cup Capacity

IMUSA Electric Espresso Cappuccino Maker 4 Cup Capacity
Pros:
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Easy to clean and use
  • Great for frothing milk
Cons:
  • Plastic exterior feels inexpensive
  • Limited to 120V power
Specification:
Capacity 4 cups (approximately 20-24 oz total)
Power 120 volts (standard US household voltage)
Material Durable plastic exterior with heat-resistant components
Brew Type Espresso with milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes
Removable Parts Removable drip tray and permanent filter basket
Additional Features Compact countertop design, heat-resistant exterior, cafe-style beverage capability

As soon as I took the IMUSA Electric Espresso Cappuccino Maker out of the box, I was struck by its compact size and sleek black finish. It feels solid in your hand, with a sturdy plastic exterior that looks modern and fits nicely on any countertop.

The 4-cup capacity is just right; not too bulky, yet enough for a few cups of espresso or a small gathering.

Using it is surprisingly straightforward. The removable drip tray and permanent filter basket make cleanup a breeze, which is a huge plus after brewing.

The heat-resistant exterior stays cool to the touch, even when the internal components are working hard to brew that rich, bold espresso.

The milk frother is a real game-changer. It transforms regular milk into velvety foam quickly, letting you whip up cappuccinos or lattes without a fuss.

I appreciated how quiet it was during operation—no loud noises or vibrations, just steady performance.

What I really liked is how versatile this machine is. It brews strong espresso and also handles milk frothing effortlessly.

Plus, the consistent heating ensures each shot is just as good as the last. It’s perfect for daily use, especially if you enjoy making cafe-style drinks at home without shelling out for a pricey machine.

Now, it’s not perfect. The plastic exterior might not feel as premium as metal, and the 120-volt operation limits its use outside the US.

But for the price, this little machine delivers a solid espresso experience that makes coffee mornings more enjoyable.

Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip, Cold Brew

Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip, Cold Brew
Pros:
  • Versatile 3-in-1 machine
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Precise grinding and brewing
Cons:
  • Pricey
  • Takes up counter space
Specification:
Built-in Grinder Conical burr grinder with 25 grind size settings
Brewing Capacity 6 to 18 oz. per serving, adjustable in 2 oz. increments
Frothing System Dual froth system with automatic steamer and spinning whisk
Temperature Control Active real-time temperature adjustments based on drink selection
Pressure System Optimized pressure for espresso extraction, typically around 9 bars
Machine Power Estimated 1500W for brewing and steaming functions

There’s a common belief that making café-quality espresso and specialty coffee at home is complicated and requires multiple machines or expert skills. After using the Ninja Luxe Café Premier, I can confidently say that’s a misconception.

This machine is surprisingly sleek for a 3-in-1 setup, with a sturdy build and a straightforward interface. The touch controls are intuitive, and the LCD screen guides you through each step without feeling overwhelming.

What really stood out is how easy it is to switch between drinks. You can go from a double shot espresso to a cold brew in seconds, thanks to the smart technology that adjusts temperature and pressure automatically.

The built-in grinder offers 25 precise settings, so your coffee is always tailored to your taste.

The dual frothing system is a game-changer. I poured in cold milk, pressed a button, and walked away—microfoam was silky-smooth every time, perfect for lattes or cappuccinos.

The preset programs, like thick or cold foam, make it simple for anyone to get professional-looking results.

Creating cold-pressed espresso or rapid cold brew is just as effortless. I enjoyed making iced lattes in the summer, with flavor extraction that was richer and smoother than I expected from a home machine.

The compact design with built-in storage keeps my counter tidy and organized.

Overall, this machine lives up to its promise of barista-quality drinks without the fuss. Whether you’re a beginner or a coffee enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the versatility and ease of use.

CASABREWS CM5418 Compact Espresso Machine with Steam Wand

CASABREWS CM5418 Compact Espresso Machine with Steam Wand
Pros:
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Powerful 20 bar pressure
  • Excellent milk frothing system
Cons:
  • Needs cooling after frothing
  • Slight learning curve for beginners
Specification:
Pump Pressure 20 bar professional Italian pump
Power Consumption 1350 W
Water Tank Capacity 34 oz (approximately 1 liter)
Boiler Power 1350 W
Frothing System Powerful steam wand for microfoam milk
Machine Dimensions Compact size suitable for small kitchens or office use

Many people assume that compact espresso machines sacrifice quality for size. But with the CASABREWS CM5418, I found that’s simply not true.

Its sleek stainless steel exterior looks like it belongs in a professional café, yet it fits comfortably on a small kitchen counter.

The 20 bar pressure system really delivers on flavor. I was surprised by how rich and fragrant my espresso turned out, thanks to the powerful Italian pump.

The built-in pressure gauge is a smart touch, letting you tweak your shots to taste without guesswork.

The steam wand is another highlight. It textures milk beautifully, creating microfoam perfect for latte art.

I enjoyed experimenting with foam art, and it’s clear this machine is designed for more than just basic coffee.

Refilling the 34 oz water tank was easy, thanks to the detachable design. It brews single or double shots quickly, with a nice crema layer that makes it look as good as it tastes.

The compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens or even an office setup.

One thing to keep in mind: after frothing milk, it’s best to let the machine cool down before brewing again. The instructions are clear, and I appreciated the built-in safety features that prevent overheating.

Overall, this espresso machine feels sturdy, stylish, and highly functional. It’s a great choice if you want barista-quality drinks at home without sacrificing space.

Whether you’re making a quick espresso or a fancy cappuccino, it handles both with ease.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment