Best Espresso Machines for Small Spaces: A Hands-On Review and Buyer’s Guide for 2024

As a long-time home barista who also battles limited counter space, I understand the daily dilemma of yearning for café-quality espresso while lacking room for a commercial machine. After testing a dozen “mini” models over the years, I’ve found what I believe to be the best espresso machines for small spaces.

While no petite machine rivals the power and features of hulking restaurant equipment, today’s small-but-mighty models employ clever engineering to mimic commercial operation. Advanced thermodynamics coax bold, balanced flavor from small packages. Smart steaming systems texture milk to silky perfection. And intuitive programming takes the guesswork out of brewing, so anyone can craft serious espresso at home.

Read on for the best espresso makers tailored for modest square footage.

Top 5 Best Espresso Machines for Small Spaces

1. Breville BES840XL Infuser - Best Overall
2. Rancilio Silvia Pro - Best Premium Option
3. DeLonghi EC155 - Smallest Footprint
4. Breville Bambino Plus - Best for Mixed Coffee Drinks
5. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine - Best Budget Machine

1. Breville BES840XL Infuser - Best Overall

The Breville Infuser secures the top spot for offering the most bang-for-your-buck in a reasonably sized footprint. This semi-automatic machine provides commercial capabilities, including PID-controlled temperature calibration and pre-infusion functionality for significantly less money than comparable models.

The Infuser’s advanced PID temperature controller drastically improves shot consistency by holding water within 1.8 degrees of the target temp. Set the degree and let the Infuser handle the rest…no more guessing or experiencing temperature fluctuations during extraction.

Pre-infusion is another prized commercial feature that saturates coffee grounds prior to full-pressure extraction. This technique coaxes out the grounds’ full flavor potential and produces a balanced cup with sweeter notes. Most other machines at this size and price don’t have that feature.

And few petite powerhouses can compete with the Infuser’s top-notch steam wand. The articulating design creates just the right angle for expert latte art execution. Microfoam milk textures beautifully, and the powerful jet reduces lag time between brewing and steaming.

In terms of size, the Infuser is 13” wide, but it fits in a compact 12” x 13” footprint. And at 23 pounds, it feels reassuringly sturdy rather than dainty.

While the Infuser lacks a double boiler, its energy-efficient operation still satisfies serious espresso aficionados. For a relatively affordable price, it’s my overall top pick for incredible espresso in cramped confines.

2. Rancilio Silvia Pro - Best Premium Option

Espresso obsessives who won’t compromise on quality or customization will adore the Rancilio Silvia Pro. This professional-grade dual boiler machine puts fine-tuned functionality and commercial prowess into a slim frame, and I love just about everything about it. Expect cafe-caliber espresso and next-level latte art pours from this powerful Italian import.

The Silvia Pro justifies its princely price tag with jaw-dropping temperature calibrating capabilities. Its commercial PID controller allows precision fine-tuning between 86-265 degrees F, while dual independent boilers permit simultaneous brewing and steaming. Say goodbye to lingering between shots or drinks—this rapid-fire machine keeps the coffee flowing.

It doesn’t quit when it comes to milk texturing, either. The Silvia’s commercial-style steaming wand creates that signature frothy milk in seconds, while the angled tip makes decorating easy. Budding baristas will be frothing like pros in no time. These features also make this one of the best espresso machines overall, in my opinion, even if you’re not specifically looking to conserve counterspace.

In terms of size, the Silvia Pro requires just a 12” x 14” footprint to house its good looks and brawn. It clocks in at a heavy 37 pounds, but conveniently recessed handles make moving more manageable than most similarly-sized espresso makers.

While dropping $1,500+ on an espresso machine gives some sticker shock, one taste of the Silvia Pro’s smooth aromatic extraction will convince you it’s worth every penny. If size matters but quality matters more, this powerful Italian jewel brews professional precision without hogging precious counter space.

3. DeLonghi EC155 - Smallest Footprint

The DeLonghi EC155 earns top billing in the tiniest of kitchens where every square inch counts. This ultra-compact, budget-friendly model squeezes serious espresso capabilities into a frame smaller than a loaf of bread. While its size may seem miniature, this mighty mini can still churn out cafe-worthy cups.

Measuring just 11” L x 8” W x 10” H, the EC155’s diminutive dimensions make it perfect for RVs, dorm rooms, apartments, tiny homes, and small office spaces, no matter how cramped.

Despite its itty bitty footprint, the EC155 can still pull solid shots thanks to its self-priming operation and adjustable pressurized filters. Those handy pressurized filters help novice home baristas harness extraction power by reducing the effect of grind irregularities. So even newbies can pull balanced shots.

The attached Panarello steam wand won’t win barista competitions, but it textures milk well enough for cappuccinos or lattes. Just don’t expect microfoam showpieces or café-quality latte art. 

For an insanely low price, the EC155 lets cash-strapped coffee lovers or space misers access legitimate espresso capabilities from roughly 1 cubic foot. While serious enthusiasts may crave more complexity, it out-punches its size and price range. Perfect for anyone seeking a small-but-strong espresso maker.

4. Breville Bambino Plus - Best for Mixed Coffee Drinks

If you crave coffeehouse variety in a petite package, the Breville Bambino Plus exceeds expectations. This mighty half-pint so skillfully steams and froths that you’ll swear you’re sipping from a full-sized cafe model twice its size.

While the Bambino comes equipped with just a single boiler, that lone ranger generates ample brewing and steaming power on demand. Cycle quickly between pulling shots or aerating milk thanks to an automatic steam wand that switches into steaming mode after each extraction. This makes whipping up lattes, mochas, and macchiatos blessedly easy.

That aforementioned auto steamer truly dazzles too. Most micro-machines produce wet steam that splatters milk everywhere or can’t inject enough air for silky froth. But the Bambino’s precise wand textures expert microfoam in seconds, no matter the milk amount or cup size. Expect gorgeous floats that rival your favorite coffeehouse. I was continuously impressed by this tiny espresso machine.

In terms of bulk, the Bambino Plus models diminutive dimensions after its name, measuring just 7.7” W x 12.5” H x 12.2” D and weighing a mere 20.5 lbs. But don’t judge this little guy by its small stature—it brews and steams like a beast.

While Breville cut some corners with lots of plastic components, the Bambino Plus still awes aspiring home baristas. If variety drives your coffee cravings but size limits your equipment, this mighty mini churns out cafe-worthy espresso and flawlessly frothed milk drinks time and time again.

5. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine - Best Budget Machine

De’Longhi’s Stilosa Espresso Machine proves you don’t need to spend thousands—or even hundreds—for barista-style beverages. This wallet-friendly manual model packs functionality into a frugal package, which is perfect for sparking beginners’ brewing journeys without magnum prices or mammoth machinery.

While most quality pump-driven espresso makers cost $500+, the sub-$100 Stilosa makes incredible coffee available even on humble budgets. It provides basic shot pulling and steaming without overwhelming new users with tricky tactile programming. Think commercial features without complications. Just load, tamp, lock, and pull.

Its self-priming boiler ensures efficient brew temperature regulation while the pressurized filter basket helps inexperienced home baristas achieve balanced extractions. An attached steam wand puts latte and cappuccino making within grasp too.

Sure, more advanced users may crave finer brew customization or control. And milk frothing falls short of true microfoam. But focusing on a few core competencies keeps quality high and cost low. An exceptional balance, especially for casual home brewers.

The Stilosa’s transparent water chamber permits convenient three-cup capacity monitoring—no guessing if you’ve got enough to pull a shot. And automatic flow stop means beginners avoid common accidents like overflow. Nice touches to simplify the process.

While serious enthusiasts should look elsewhere, the Stilosa brings legitimate espresso and light steaming into any home for less than a $100. An exceptional value pick for cash-conscious coffee lovers with more passion than paycheck.

How to Buy a Good Espresso Machine for Small Spaces: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Choosing an espresso machine tailor-made for limited square footage goes beyond comparing dimensions on paper. Performance matters exponentially more than size measurements alone, especially because smaller machines can tend to compromise on quality to fit into tinier packages.

Let’s explore a few key criteria that affect flavor and functionality, regardless of machine proportions. Because compromising strength or quality defeats the entire purpose of specialty coffee. We want tiny AND mighty.

Footprint and Weight

Of course, counter clearance plays a pivotal role when evaluating petite appliances. Be sure to measure the precise flat surface your machine requires—water tanks, cup tray extensions, and steam wands need maneuvering room too. And don’t overlook vertical dimensions either. Fitting under cabinets often proves trickiest in small spaces. There’s nothing more annoying than having to pull your machine out every morning just to fill the water reservoir.

Machine mass also affects usability, especially if you plan on stashing your setup out of sight. Lifting and transferring bulky models grows tiresome fast, and that’s a common necessity in cramped kitchens and coffee bars.

But don’t sacrifice too much heft or stability either. Durable materials like metal prevent vibrations that disturb extraction. Ultimately, prioritize what works best for your lifestyle.

Boiler System

Espresso machine boilers heat brew water while also powering steaming operations. But configurations vary greatly, and each affects overall convenience and drink quality. Let’s break down the pros and cons of the most common systems.

Single Boiler: Common in home models; heats water to brew temp but then requires reheating for steam. Simple and affordable but causes lag time between brewing coffee and prepping your milk.

Heat Exchanger (HX): Diverts single boiler steam into a separate chamber surrounding brew water to elevate its temperature rapidly after pulling shots. Faster than single boilers but not as consistent as double boilers.

Dual Boiler: Considered the gold standard; utilizes separate boilers for dialing in precise brewing and steaming temperatures simultaneously. No waiting between drinks, but they’re expensive and tend to be a bit more space hungry.

Think about your beverage preferences when choosing. Milk fans need steam power, purists demand perfect temps. Then select boiler abilities to best match. Balance performance against available space and price.

Machine Type

Home espresso makers generally slot into three main classifications, each providing different levels of user control. Let’s analyze how your involvement in the brewing process and coffee quality relate to one another.

Semi-Automatic: User manually initiates shot pull, and then the machine takes over until the user manually ends the shot. Greater hands-on control but slightly more complex. Offers best potential quality, as you have control over your shot time.

Automatic: Just like a semi-automatic, but you don’t have control over the shot time. These machines usually give you pre-set shot times, which aren’t as precise or as customizable as the shot time on a semi-automatic machine.

Super Automatic: Push-button operation automates everything from grinding to shot pulling to milk texturing. Very user friendly and consistent but less customizable. These machines don’t make great espresso in most cases.

Manual Lever: Utilizes manual force on a lever instead of electric pump for pressure. Finicky and difficult to master but unmatched hands-on control. I didn’t include any of these in my reviews here, but I do have a review of one of the best manual machines included in my article on the best espresso machines for home.

I suggest semi-automatic machines for new home baristas because they simplify brewing fundamentals without sacrificing engagement. But if convenience wins out, super automatic types grant decent consistency too. Just prepare to relinquish some user oversight and quality.

Espresso Pods vs Grounds

Single-serving “pods” stuffed with pre-ground coffee offer tempting convenience for small kitchens since they eliminate grinding and dosing steps, and they tend to come in smaller packages. But pods also severely sacrifice freshness and quality over freshly ground beans. Flavor and aroma degrade rapidly after grinding, so pre-ground coffee is usually going to disappoint.

And pod machines lack fundamental flavor customization like grind adjustments or shot variations. Expect acceptable but rarely exceptional drinks.

If you crave quality above all, stick to standard machines that utilize fresh grounds. Dialing in grind size and shot ratios unlocks vastly richer dimensions in your cup, too. And whole bean storage keeps volatile oils intact until they’re ground moments before meeting hot water, which helps achieve the right consistency for layering milk drinks. No contest here, in my opinion.

Programming and Customization

User-facing programming dramatically affects what ends up in your cup. Key features that expand personalization include:

• PID Controller: Precisely calibrates temperatures to within 1-2° for accuracy.
• Pre-Infusion: Soaks grinds with low pressure before full extraction for balanced flavor.
• Adjustable Pressure: Fine tunes pump pressure to 9+ bars for desired intensity.
• Programmable Shot Volumes: Sets exact brew durations based on preferred strength or roast level.

Seeking out appliances with expanded settings allows you to tweak each component of the brew process. The more variables within your control, the better chance of creating your ideal extraction.

Milk Frothing Finesse

While straight espresso purists can skip this section, milk drink devotees rely on a steam wand for incorporating air into milk to create a silky, frothy texture. But not all wands work equally.

Inferior steamers sputter wet steam unevenly, scalding milk and creating big bubbles rather than silky microfoam. The best machines feature precise tips that maximize air power for smooth incorporation. Swiveling wands provide ideal angles, too, and they help cut down on the space your machine takes up when you’re not using it.

Prioritize excellent steaming if milk drinks dominate your menu. When executed perfectly, steaming elevates espresso-based mixed drinks from tolerable to transcendent.

Price Considerations

Cost naturally weighs heavily on appliance evaluations, especially for luxury kitchen items. While capable starter machines average around $300, gleaming chrome professional models creep towards $3,000+.

Setting a budget eliminates impulse purchases, but don’t equate expense exclusively with quality. Well-designed engineering can achieve commercial functionality at just a fraction of the cost.

Instead of fixating on price alone, calculate cost per cup over your machine’s lifespan. If you drink daily lattes, even pricy machines can still save money long-term over buying from a café.

Think carefully about your habits and dedication before buying. Novices unsure if they’ll stick with home brewing should penny pinch until passion proves out. Just don’t compromise so much that cheap parts sabotage your enthusiasm.

Wrapping Up: The Best Espresso Machines for Small Spaces

After analyzing dimensions, functionality, and drink performance, two exceptional models stand slightly taller. The Breville Infuser strikes an ideal balance between precision, size, and price for passionate baristas, while the tiny but mighty DeLonghi EC155 injects authentic espresso into the tiniest abodes. Both achieve competence beyond their compact confines.

But the perfect petite espresso machine must match your personal taste, technical skill, and, of course, available counter space. So whether you crave café cocktails or just straight shots, rest easy knowing flavorful fixes fit into even the most cramped kitchens. Happy brewing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do small espresso machines make drinks as well as larger, commercial models?

Small home espresso machines utilize clever compact designs and thermodynamics to mimic results from professional models twice their size. Features like PID temperature controls, pre-infusion cycles, and articulating steam wands let little machines calibrate water temperature, saturate grounds, and texture milk just like you’d find in cafes. They may lack some customization or fine tuning capabilities, but you can absolutely craft incredible espresso and milk drinks from petite models.

How do I know which features are most important when shopping for an espresso machine for a small space?

Carefully evaluate which drink types you prefer and how much customization control you desire. Espresso purists should maximize temperature stability with PID controllers and pre-infusion, while milk drink fans need powerful steaming wands and, ideally, a double boiler for microfoam. Those short on counter space can consider super automatic machines that trade customization for compact all-in-one convenience.  Match programming and components to your ability level, too. Novices may appreciate automatic functions while experts typically desire fine tuning features.

Should I choose espresso pods or fresh grounds for a small machine?

While single-use pods tout tempting convenience in compact appliances, the compromise on freshness and quality makes them hard to recommend over machines that take fresh grounds. Pre-ground coffee in pods degrades rapidly after grinding, creating flat, stale flavor. And pod machines lack customization like grind adjustment or shot programming. I recommend sticking to standard brewers utilizing whole beans ground immediately before extraction. The rich dimensions unlocked by freshly grinding before brewing can’t be replicated by pods.

How much do quality espresso machines for small spaces cost?

Good home models range widely from just $100 for no-frills manual devices focused on essential brewing to over $1,000 for dual-boiler machines that mimic commercial cafes. Set your budget based on features most important to you, not by price alone. Passionate beginners can start around $300-$500 for well-engineered appliances high on value. Prioritize longevity and parts quality over bargain pricing to get the most from your investment long-term.