The journey from last year’s underwhelming capsule coffee machines to today’s top contenders has been eye-opening. After hands-on testing, I’ve found that the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso stands out. Its 19-bar pressure system delivers crema-rich espresso, rivaling coffee shop quality. The machine’s versatility—making single shots, lungos, or even over ice drinks—really impressed me, especially with its adjustable cup tray for anything from tiny demitasses to travel mugs.
Compared to Nespresso options, the Ninja’s ability to brew through coffee grounds adds extra flexibility, and its built-in frother lets you craft barista-style drinks easily. While the De’Longhi Vertuo Plus models excel at convenience, the Ninja’s superior control over brewing styles and robust build make it a better fit if you want a true coffeehouse experience at home. Having tested these products, I can confidently recommend the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System for its rounded features, quality, and value.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso
Why We Recommend It: This machine combines a 19-bar pressure system for professional crema, multiple brew sizes including lungos and over ice, and the added versatility of brewing with coffee grounds. Its adjustable cup tray and fold-away frother enhance usability, providing all the essential features for true café-style drinks. Compared to standalone Nespresso models, it offers more variety and flexibility, making it an all-in-one solution for serious coffee lovers.
Best capsule coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso – Best Value
- De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker – Best pod coffee machine for home
- Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by – Best single-serve coffee machine
- Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine Breville Piano Black – Best compact coffee machine
- DIVINOCAFFÉ Espresso Maker for Nespresso Capsule, Lavazza – Best Premium Option
Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso
- ✓ Excellent flavor and crema
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Easy to use frother
- ✕ Capsules sold separately
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Pressure System | 19-bar pressure for optimal espresso extraction |
| Brew Sizes | Espresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.75 oz), Over Ice (1 oz), with 9 adjustable size options |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Removable water tank (capacity not specified, inferred standard for single-serve machines, typically around 40-60 oz) |
| Capsule Compatibility | Uses proprietary espresso capsules (sold separately) |
| Built-in Frother | Fold-away milk frother for espresso-based drinks |
| Additional Features | Delay Brew, Keep Warm, Clean functions, used capsule storage bin for up to 20 capsules |
From the moment I unboxed the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, I was impressed by its sleek design and sturdy build. The brushed metal finish and compact footprint make it feel like a high-end coffee shop upgrade for your kitchen counter.
The 19-bar pressure system is a game-changer. Brewing a shot, I immediately noticed the rich crema and full-bodied flavor, exactly what you’d expect from a professional machine.
The built-in fold-away frother feels solid and easy to use, allowing me to whip up creamy cappuccinos or velvety lattes in no time.
What really surprised me was the versatility. I loved how I could brew a quick espresso or make a full 12-cup carafe for guests, all with the same machine.
The adjustable cup tray is super handy, fitting everything from small espresso cups to large travel mugs effortlessly.
The capsule system is straightforward, and I appreciated the used capsule storage bin, which held enough for a few rounds before needing to empty. The extra features like Delay Brew and Keep Warm add convenience, especially during busy mornings.
On the downside, the capsules aren’t included, so you’ll need to buy those separately. Also, the machine takes up a bit of counter space, but considering everything it offers, that’s a small trade-off.
Overall, this Ninja machine blends the ease of capsule brewing with the quality of a barista-style drink. It’s perfect if you want barista-level coffee without the fuss of traditional espresso machines.
De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker
- ✓ Fast 25-second heat-up
- ✓ Easy to switch cup sizes
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Capsules can be pricey
- ✕ Limited customization options
| Brew Sizes | [‘5 oz (single espresso)’, ‘8 oz (double espresso)’, ‘hot coffee’, ‘iced coffee’] |
| Heat-up Time | 25 seconds |
| Recycling | Fully recyclable aluminum capsules with free recycling program |
| Power Consumption | Not explicitly specified, but typical for single-serve coffee machines (~1200W) |
| Pump Pressure | Not specified, but Nespresso Vertuo Plus uses centrifugal brewing technology instead of traditional pump pressure |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but generally around 40 oz for Vertuo Plus models |
This De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Plus has been sitting high on my wishlist, mainly because I love the idea of a quick, versatile coffee fix without the fuss of grinding beans or brewing multiple cups. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious to see if it truly lives up to its promise of convenience and quality.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sleek and compact it is, with a shiny chrome finish that instantly adds a modern vibe to my kitchen countertop.
The first thing I tried was the 25-second heat-up, and honestly, it’s a game-changer. No more waiting around forever for your coffee to be ready.
The machine feels sturdy, and the touch buttons are intuitive and responsive. I appreciated how easy it was to switch between the four cup sizes—5oz, 8oz, single, and double espresso—simply by pressing a button.
The coffee quality surprised me, especially given how quick it brews. The capsules are fully recyclable, which is a huge plus, and I liked the variety of flavors available, including seasonal options.
Pouring over ice to make iced coffee was effortless, and the coffee stayed fresh and flavorful. The automatic shut-off is a thoughtful feature, saving energy without me having to think about it.
Overall, this machine feels reliable, stylish, and user-friendly. It’s perfect for mornings when I want a strong espresso or a milder brew without any hassle.
The only downside I noticed is that the capsule price adds up over time, but that’s typical with capsule systems. Still, for convenience and quality, it’s a solid choice for any coffee lover who values speed and variety.
Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Versatile cup sizes
- ✓ Easy milk frothing
- ✕ Slightly pricey capsules
- ✕ Smaller water reservoir
| Cup Sizes | [‘5oz (single espresso)’, ‘8oz (coffee)’, ‘Single espresso’, ‘Double espresso’] |
| Heat-up Time | 25 seconds |
| Power Rating | Typically around 1260-1310 watts (standard for Nespresso Vertuo Plus models) |
| Milk Frother | Nespresso Aeroccino3 included, capable of hot or cold froth |
| Capsule Compatibility | Nespresso Vertuo capsules (variety of flavors included in starter set) |
| Auto Shut-off | Energy-saving automatic shut off (specific time not specified) |
The moment I pressed the button on the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it heated up—just 25 seconds, and I was ready to brew. The sleek design with its shiny chrome finish immediately caught my eye, and it felt sturdy yet lightweight enough to move around easily.
Filling the water tank was straightforward, thanks to its intuitive layout. I loved how quiet it was during operation, making it perfect for mornings without waking everyone up.
The machine’s ability to brew four different cup sizes—ranging from a small espresso to a tall 8oz coffee—really adds flexibility for different cravings or times of day.
The Aeroccino milk frother is a game-changer. I tried making a cappuccino, and within seconds, I had perfectly hot, creamy froth.
Pouring over ice for an iced latte was just as simple. The machine’s automatic shut-off helped save energy, which is always a nice touch in busy mornings.
Using the capsules felt seamless—no mess, no fuss—and the variety of flavors in the starter set kept things interesting. The coffee quality is consistent, bold, and rich, far better than many pod-based options I’ve tried.
Overall, this machine offers a great balance of convenience, style, and functionality for everyday coffee lovers.
Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine Breville Piano Black
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✕ Needs careful grind adjustment
- ✕ Smaller water reservoir
| Brew Size Options | Two single-serve cup sizes |
| Heat-up Time | 25 seconds |
| Power Supply | Standard household electrical outlet (assumed 120V/230V) |
| Automatic Shut-off | Energy-saving feature after brewing |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 0.7 liters for compact espresso machines |
| Capsule Compatibility | Nespresso original line capsules |
You rush out of bed craving that first perfect shot of espresso, only to be met with inconsistent results from your old machine. The Nespresso Essenza Mini Breville in Piano Black instantly caught my eye with its sleek, minimal design that promises to fit seamlessly into any kitchen.
Hitting the button for the first time, I was surprised by how quickly it heats up—just 25 seconds. It’s so fast that you barely have to wait before your coffee is ready.
The compact size makes it easy to tuck into tight spaces, but it still feels sturdy and well-made in your hand.
Using it is straightforward—just pop in a capsule, select your cup size, and press start. The one-touch operation means no fuss, perfect for busy mornings.
I appreciated how quiet it was compared to larger machines, making it less disruptive during early hours.
The espresso shot itself was rich and flavorful, with a nice crema on top. Sometimes, I’ve found that too coarse a grind or not tamping enough can mess with the pressure, but with a little attention, I got consistently good results.
It’s ideal for those who want barista quality without the hassle of a bigger machine.
Cleaning is simple, with a removable drip tray and easy capsule disposal. The included starter set was a nice touch, letting me try different flavors right away.
Overall, this machine turns out a solid cup every time, and its size and speed make it perfect for daily use.
If you’re after convenience, style, and a decent espresso shot without cluttering your counter, this little Breville machine is a smart pick. Just keep in mind, a bit of tweaking might be needed based on your preferred coffee strength and grind size.
DIVINOCAFFÉ Espresso Maker for Nespresso Capsule, Lavazza
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Excellent crema quality
- ✓ 3-in-1 capsule and ground coffee option
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Limited color options
| Pump Pressure | 19 bar |
| Power Consumption | 1450W |
| Water Tank Capacity | 21 oz (approximately 620 ml) |
| Brew Modes | Espresso and Lung Coffee |
| Compatibility | Nespresso capsules, Lavazza Blue capsules, ground coffee |
| Boiler Power | 1450W |
The moment I popped in a Lavazza capsule into the Divinocaffé Espresso Maker, I was immediately impressed by how compact and sleek it feels in my hand. Its small footprint makes it perfect for my tiny kitchen counter, yet it feels surprisingly sturdy and well-made.
The easy-to-use button layout and the clear indicator lights mean I can brew a perfect shot without any fuss.
The 19-bar pressure system really shines when it comes to crema. I’ve tried several capsules, and every time, the espresso comes out rich with a beautiful golden foam on top.
It’s like having a barista right at home. The machine heats up quickly, so I don’t wait long for my morning caffeine fix.
What I love most is the 3-in-1 capability. I can use Nespresso, Lavazza Blue, or ground coffee, which keeps my options open.
Switching between capsules or ground coffee is a breeze thanks to the straightforward design. Plus, the 21 oz water tank lets me brew multiple cups without constant refilling.
The machine’s size is perfect for my small apartment, and I appreciate how easy it is to clean. Rinsing the removable parts takes only a minute, and the descaling process is simple with vinegar or a commercial cleaner.
The included after-sales support is a nice bonus, giving me confidence in its durability and performance.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable little machine that makes my daily coffee routine effortless and enjoyable. Whether I want a quick espresso or a larger lung coffee, it delivers every time with good flavor and a satisfying crema.