9 Best Small Espresso Machines (November 2026)

The best small espresso machines include the BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee for the narrowest counter, the Stilosa Compact Manual Espresso Machine for manual milk frothing, and the CM5418 Compact Espresso Machine with Milk Frothing for a slim milk drink setup.

On this page (4 sections)

1. Which small espresso machines suit different counters?
2. How do you choose a small espresso machine?
3. What should you measure before buying?
4. Which small espresso machine is the best fit?

The best small espresso machine for the narrowest counter is the Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini, with a stated width of 5.3 in and touch controls for espresso or lungo. For a small setup with milk drinks, consider the CASABREWS CM5418; for Nespresso Original capsules, choose the Essenza Mini.

Compact can mean narrow, shallow, or short, so measure the whole space before you choose. Check the tank access, cup clearance, and room to work with the portafilter or steam wand as well as the machine's outer dimensions.

For a closer look at Breville's compact options, see our guide to the best Breville espresso machine compact models. If you're deciding whether a built-in grinder is worth the extra footprint, compare Breville espresso machines without built-in grinders.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for the narrowest counter

   BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for manual milk frothing

   Stilosa Compact Manual Espresso Machine

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a slim milk drink setup

   CM5418 Compact Espresso Machine with Milk Frothing

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Maker

   Best for a light-colored counter setup
   Check it
5. 5

   Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar Super Compact

   Best for a compact machine with temperature display
   Check it
6. 6

   Breville Nespresso Original Essenza Mini Espresso Machine

   Best for Nespresso Original capsules
   Check it
7. 7

   Vertuo Pop+ Coffee and Espresso Machine by

   Best for several capsule drink sizes
   Check it
8. 8

   Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine

   Best for an integrated grinder
   Check it
9. 9

   Ninja Luxe Café Pro 4-in-1 Espresso Machine

   Best for multiple brew styles
   Check it

Which small espresso machines suit different counters?

The best fit depends on the counter's tightest dimension and how you make coffee. A capsule machine keeps the routine simple, while a portafilter machine can add manual control and milk frothing.

We compared stated dimensions, coffee input, drink options and included features against the needs of a limited counter. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

Which best small espresso machine is narrowest?

The Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini has the smallest stated width here at 5.3 in. The two CASABREWS CM5418 versions are close behind, while the capsule models offer one-touch brewing and different pod systems.

1

BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee: Best for the narrowest counter

9.7/10Our score

• 5.3 in wide
• Lavazza Blue capsules
• Two touch controls
• Programmable free dose and preset

At 5.3 in wide, this capsule machine has the narrowest stated width among these picks. Its two touch controls brew espresso or lungo.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Narrow 5.3 in width
• Two touch controls
• Programmable dose

Cons

• Uses Lavazza Blue capsules
• No milk frothing feature is specified

The Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini is a focused choice for a narrow counter. At 5.3 in wide, it takes less width than the other machines here, though its 13 in depth still needs a clear spot.

Two touch controls serve espresso or lungo, and one dose is programmable. It uses Lavazza Blue capsules, so check that the capsule system matches what you want to keep on hand.

The machine is described as the smallest in Lavazza's Blue range. Its simple controls make it a better fit for buyers who value compact, capsule-based brewing over a steam wand or grinder.

Choose it when width is the main constraint and you're comfortable with Lavazza Blue capsules. Measure the depth and leave access for loading capsules before setting it under a cabinet.

2

Stilosa Compact Manual Espresso Machine: Best for manual milk frothing

9.7/10Our score

• Manual operation
• Ground coffee
• Manual steam wand
• Single and double filters

This manual De'Longhi includes a steam wand for milk drinks and filters for single or double espresso. Its 9.45 in width needs more counter space than the narrowest capsule pick.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Manual steam wand
• Single and double filters
• Two-level cup holder

Cons

• 14.17 in tall
• Manual operation takes more steps

The De'Longhi Stilosa suits a small counter where manual espresso and milk drinks matter. Its manual steam wand textures milk, and the included filters support single or double espresso.

At 9.45 in wide and 14.17 in high, it is broader and taller than the capsule options. The two-level cup holder can accommodate taller cups, but you should still check the height beneath your cabinets.

It takes ground coffee and includes a portafilter, measuring scoop and tamper. That setup gives you more steps than a capsule machine, with room to adjust how you prepare each shot.

Choose Stilosa for a manual workflow and milk frothing in a kitchen with enough height for the machine and wand. If you want help with setup and routine, our guide on how to use a Breville Bambino espresso machine covers a different compact portafilter machine.

3

CM5418 Compact Espresso Machine with Milk Frothing: Best for a slim milk drink setup

9.7/10Our score

• 5.47 in wide
• 34 oz removable tank
• Steam wand
• Single and double filters

The slim CASABREWS CM5418 pairs a 5.47 in width with a steam wand and removable 34 oz tank. It suits buyers who want ground coffee and milk drinks in a compact footprint.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Slim 5.47 in width
• Steam wand
• Removable 34 oz tank

Cons

• Requires ground coffee
• Needs cooling after frothing before brewing

The silver CASABREWS CM5418 combines a slim 5.47 in width with a steam wand. It uses ground coffee, has single and double filters, and includes a removable 34 oz water tank.

Its listed body dimensions are 12.28 in deep by 11.97 in high. The removable tank helps with refilling, but leave space to lift it out and move a milk pitcher near the wand.

CASABREWS advises letting the machine cool after frothing milk before brewing. That extra step matters if you plan to switch quickly between milk drinks and espresso shots.

Choose this version if you want a slim ground-coffee machine with a steam wand. It offers a narrower footprint than the cream-colored CM5418, while retaining the same stated depth and height.

4

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Maker: Best for a light-colored counter setup

9.7/10Our score

• 5.9 in wide
• Creamy color
• 34 oz removable tank
• Steam wand

This cream-colored CM5418 offers a steam wand and a 34 oz removable tank. Its 5.9 in width remains slim, though it is slightly wider than the silver CM5418 here.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Creamy color
• Steam wand
• Removable 34 oz tank

Cons

• Requires ground coffee
• Needs cooling after frothing before brewing

The cream-colored CASABREWS CM5418 pairs ground coffee brewing with a steam wand and removable 34 oz tank. Its 5.9 in width is compact, though the silver version in this guide is slightly narrower.

It supports single or double espresso and includes a portafilter, tamper with spoon, and two filters. Those parts need a little working space beside the machine when you prepare a shot.

As with the silver version, let the machine cool after frothing milk before brewing. That makes it less suited to a routine that alternates instantly between steaming and espresso.

Choose the cream version for its color and milk frothing features when your counter has room for its 12.28 in depth. Compare the width of both CM5418 options with the gap available before deciding.

What compact machines fit low shelves?

A low shelf calls for a short machine, while a narrow counter calls for less width. The Neretva is the shortest listed portafilter machine here, and the Essenza Mini offers a compact capsule format.

5

Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar Super Compact: Best for a compact machine with temperature display

8.6/10Our score

• 12 in wide
• 9.1 in high
• Temperature display
• Steam wand and pre-infusion

The Neretva is 9.1 in high and includes a temperature display, pre-infusion and a steam wand. Its 12 in width makes it a better fit where low height matters more than a narrow footprint.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Low 9.1 in height
• Temperature display
• Steam wand

Cons

• 12 in wide
• Requires ground coffee

The Neretva measures 9.1 in high, which can help when overhead clearance is the main limit. It is 12 in wide and 11 in deep, so it is not the narrowest choice for a crowded counter.

A temperature display, low-pressure pre-infusion and steam wand give it more features than a basic capsule brewer. For more choices for a shared workspace, see espresso machines for the office.

It uses ground coffee and includes a portafilter and filters.

Neretva describes the design as compact and includes a removable 1.3 L tank. Check the full footprint and the space needed to use the steam wand, especially if the machine will sit beneath cabinets.

Choose it for low height and manual milk drinks when width is less restrictive. If you want to compare more buying factors, read what to look for in an espresso machine.

6

Breville Nespresso Original Essenza Mini Espresso Machine: Best for Nespresso Original capsules

8.2/10Our score

• 8 in wide
• 12.8 in high
• Two cup sizes
• Nespresso Original capsules

The Essenza Mini brews two cup sizes with one-touch controls and uses Nespresso Original capsules. Its listed dimensions make it easy to compare with a tight shelf or counter.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two one-touch cup sizes
• Compact 8 in width
• 25-second heat-up

Cons

• Uses Nespresso Original capsules
• No steam wand is specified

The Essenza Mini is a compact capsule brewer for Nespresso Original coffee. Its 8 in width and 4.3 in depth give you a small stated footprint, and one-touch controls brew two cup sizes.

It heats up in 25 seconds and switches off automatically after inactivity. The included starter set of capsules can help you begin, though the assortment may vary.

A milk frother is mentioned as a feature, but a steam wand is not specified, so consider a separate frother if you make lattes often.

Choose the Essenza Mini for a small counter and Nespresso Original capsules. Check the 12.8 in height against any shelf above it, and leave room to open the capsule area.

7

Vertuo Pop+ Coffee and Espresso Machine by: Best for several capsule drink sizes

9.6/10Our score

• 5 drink sizes
• Side-mounted 25 fl oz tank
• 8.6 in wide
• Nespresso Vertuo capsules

The Vertuo Pop+ brews five drink sizes, including single and double espresso, and has a side-mounted removable tank. It needs Vertuo capsules and more depth than the Essenza Mini.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Five drink sizes
• Side-access removable tank
• Adjustable drip tray

Cons

• Uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules
• 14 in deep

The Vertuo Pop+ is a compact capsule machine for buyers who want several drink sizes. It brews five sizes, including single and double espresso, with a removable 25 fl oz tank positioned at the side.

At 8.6 in wide, it is only slightly wider than the Essenza Mini, but its 14 in depth calls for more counter space. The side-mounted tank can make access easier in some layouts, though the side also needs clearance.

It uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which are not the same system as Nespresso Original capsules. The adjustable drip tray supports different cup heights, while one-touch brewing keeps operation simple.

Choose it for drink-size variety and Vertuo capsules if the deeper footprint fits your counter. For a comparison of two compact Breville choices, see Breville Bambino vs Bambino Plus.

Are built-in grinders worth the counter space?

A built-in grinder can reduce the number of separate appliances, but it often means a larger machine. The Barista Express and Ninja Luxe Café Pro both combine grinding with brewing and need more space than the mini models.

8

Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine: Best for an integrated grinder

9.3/10Our score

• Integrated conical burr grinder
• 12.5 in wide
• 15.9 in high
• 67 fl oz water tank

The Barista Express combines an integrated grinder with a portafilter, steam wand and 67 fl oz tank. At 12.5 in wide and 15.9 in high, it needs a larger counter area than the mini machines.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Integrated conical burr grinder
• Manual microfoam steam wand
• 67 fl oz tank

Cons

• Largest width among these picks
• 15.9 in tall

The Breville Barista Express is the largest Breville option in this list, but it combines an integrated conical burr grinder with espresso brewing. It also has a manual steam wand, a 67 fl oz water tank and a portafilter.

Its dimensions are 12.5 in wide, 13.8 in deep and 15.9 in high. That is a substantial footprint for a small kitchen, so measure both the counter and overhead clearance before choosing it.

The grinder doses beans directly into the portafilter, and the grind size dial gives you room to adjust for different beans.

Choose it when an integrated grinder matters more than a mini footprint. If you prefer a Breville without built-in grinding, our guide to the best Breville espresso machines without grinders compares that kind of setup.

9

Ninja Luxe Café Pro 4-in-1 Espresso Machine: Best for multiple brew styles

9.2/10Our score

• Espresso, drip coffee, cold brew and hot water
• 12.48 in wide
• Built-in grinder
• Onboard accessory storage

This all-in-one machine adds drip coffee, cold brew and hot water to espresso, with onboard accessory storage. Its 12.48 in width and 14.84 in height call for a larger counter space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Four brew functions
• Built-in grinder with 25 settings
• Onboard accessory storage

Cons

• 27.1 lb
• Largest height among these picks

The Ninja Luxe Café Pro combines espresso, drip coffee, cold brew and hot water in one machine. It also includes a grinder, automatic frother and onboard accessory storage, which can reduce the need to keep some gear elsewhere.

At 12.48 in wide, 13.39 in deep and 14.84 in high, it needs more counter room than a mini capsule machine. Its 27.1 lb weight also makes it a heavier option to move for storage.

Barista Assist technology guides grinding and dosing, while the dual froth system combines a whisk with an automatic steamer. Those features suit buyers who want several drink styles and more guided preparation in one appliance.

Choose the Ninja for a broad coffee menu and integrated tools when your counter can accommodate its size. Skip it if your priority is the smallest possible espresso setup.

How do you choose a small espresso machine?

Choose a machine by measuring the counter and matching its coffee system to your routine. Width alone does not tell you whether the tank, capsule lid, cup or steam wand will fit.

Start with the dimensions and include space to use the machine. A narrow model can be deep, while a short model may take more width.

Next, decide how you want to brew. Capsule machines simplify dosing and cleanup, while ground-coffee machines use a portafilter and may include a steam wand for milk drinks.

Consider storage and refilling, too. A removable tank needs room to lift out, and a side tank needs room on that side of the machine.

If you want a built-in grinder, accept that many all-in-one models take more counter space. The Barista Express and Ninja are both over 12 in wide, while the Lavazza and CASABREWS options are under 6 in wide.

What should you measure before buying?

Measure the available width, depth and height, then check how the machine opens and refills. Leave practical clearance for cups, a capsule lid, a removable tank or a portafilter handle.

For a machine that sits beneath cabinets, measure from the counter to the lowest obstruction. Compare that number with machine height, then account for any part that lifts or swivels during use.

Check nearby outlets and the path for filling the tank. A side-mounted tank may be awkward beside a wall, and a removable tank needs enough vertical room to come out.

For machines with steam wands, leave space for a milk pitcher and your hand. A compact body does not guarantee a compact working area.

Which small espresso machine is the best fit?

Pick the Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini if the narrowest width is your main goal and its capsule system suits you. Choose a CASABREWS CM5418 if you want ground coffee and a steam wand in a slim body.

For one-touch Nespresso Original brewing, choose the Essenza Mini. If you need several drink styles or an integrated grinder, consider the larger Ninja or Breville and measure the full counter space first.

If plumbing or a permanent water connection affects your setup, read what a plumbed-in espresso machine is. For more on Breville's milk-drink features, compare the Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine review.

The right small espresso machine is the one that fits both your counter and your daily routine. Measure the whole working area, then choose capsules, ground coffee or an integrated grinder based on how much preparation you want.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for the narrowest counter

   BLUE Classy Mini Single Serve Espresso Coffee

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for manual milk frothing

   Stilosa Compact Manual Espresso Machine

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a slim milk drink setup

   CM5418 Compact Espresso Machine with Milk Frothing

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best small espresso machine for a narrow counter?

The Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini is the narrowest option here at 5.3 in wide. It uses Lavazza Blue capsules and has touch controls for espresso or lungo.

Measure depth too: its 13 in depth may matter on a shallow counter.

How much counter space does a small espresso machine need?

Check the machine's width, depth and height, then leave room for its tank, portafilter or capsule lid to open. A narrow body can still need a deep counter or overhead clearance.

Measure the space where the machine will sit, including any cabinet doors above it.

Are capsule espresso machines smaller than manual machines?

Some capsule models have narrow footprints and one-touch brewing, while manual machines add a portafilter and may include a steam wand. The Lavazza BLUE Classy Mini is 5.3 in wide, while the De'Longhi Stilosa is 9.45 in wide.

Choose based on counter dimensions and whether you want milk frothing.

Can a small espresso machine make milk drinks?

Yes. The De'Longhi Stilosa, both CASABREWS CM5418 options, and Neretva include steam wands for milk frothing.

Capsule models in this list focus on coffee brewing, and a steam wand is not specified for them.

Remember to allow room beside the machine for a milk pitcher.

Should I choose a small machine with a built-in grinder?

A built-in grinder can reduce the need for a separate grinder, but it usually comes with a larger machine body. The Breville Barista Express and Ninja Luxe Café Pro include grinders, and both are over 12 in wide.

Measure the full counter area before choosing an all-in-one model.