Do you enjoy having a free cup of espresso or coffee regardless of where you are? Do you wish you could take your espresso machine with you everywhere? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then a portable espresso machine might be the best choice to fit your needs.
However, it is important to understand that portable espresso machines have several factors that need to be considered to purchase the right one for you. Here, you will not only find reviews of 10 of the best portable espresso makers, on the market, but we have comprised some crucial information to help answer any questions about these factors that you might be asking yourself.
Portable Espresso Maker Buyer's Guide
Finding the perfect portable espresso maker that fits your needs starts with you researching to find out what factors you want in your machine. After all, if you have little hand strength, you might need to look to an automatic machine, or if you are going to be in a place where there is no electricity, you have to deal with a manual espresso machine. Whatever your needs are, we are here to help you think about different factors and what each one means to you. After all, just because one espresso maker is perfect for one person does not mean that it will be the best option for you.>
How Important Is The Manufacturer?
Just like with any product, you should always consider the manufacturer of your portable espresso maker. Just because it is a name brand product does not mean that it will be overly expensive or out of your price range. Many manufacturers cater to different budget brackets, and therefore, it is important to read reviews on different manufacturers and their products.
Warranties are another aspect of a manufacturer that you need to take into consideration. It doesn’t matter if an espresso maker has a lifetime warranty if the manufacturer is known for not honoring their warranties or make it extremely difficult to claim on these warranties. Knowing who the manufacturer is will help you choose between who makes good quality products or shotty products that will never last or live up to your expectations.
Pods
A lot of single serve coffee makers use coffee pods, which are small compressed bags of grounds—similar to tea bags, but with a firmer pack. Since the pods are biodegradable, they’re more environmentally sound than some of the alternatives, and they can be used with a variety of different machines. Bear in mind, however, that they allow the grounds to be exposed to light and moisture, which can have adverse effects on their longevity.
| Image | Model | Type | Grinder | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine | Fully automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker with Tote Bag | Fully automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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Handpresso HPWILDHYBRID Coffee Machine | Fully automatic | Ceramic Disc grinder | Check Price |
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Wacaco Minipresso GR Portable Espresso Machine | Semi-automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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DELONGHI EMK6 Authentic Italian Espresso | Super automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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Bodum Stainless Steel Travel Coffee Press | Super automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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Handpresso Hybrid Auto Set | Super automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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Bialetti Moka Espresso Maker | Super automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker | Super automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
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Flair Signature Espresso Maker | Super automatic | Conical burr grinder | Check Price |
Do You Need A Manual or Electric Espresso Maker
People from all walks of life enjoy their espressos and coffee. Depending on where you plan on traveling, you need to ensure that you will be able to use your espresso maker. For instance, if you are an outdoor person that loves going camping in the woods where you don’t have any sort of electricity, then you want to ensure that your espresso maker can work without electricity.
Luckily for you, many portable espresso makers are manual. However, these types of makers usually require a fair amount of hand strength to brew the espresso properly. If this is the case, you might have to deal with an espresso maker that can hook up to electricity, and this type is also excellent for people that love basic travel. Therefore, manual or electric is an entirely personal preference, but it is important to make sure you consider which one will best suit your needs first.
Why Is Weight An Important Factor?
The answer to this question might be obvious, but the heavier the product the more inconvenient it might be to fix multiple situations, especially when it comes to traveling. After all, when you are planning any kind of trip, you want to travel as light as possible to help ensure annoyance with lugging around a lot of heavy luggage. It might seem like common sense, but the weight has a lot to do with an espresso maker being considered portable.
There are different classifications in weight when it comes to espresso makers, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t portable. You have ultra-light makers that range from 180 to 340 grams, light makers that range from 340 to 500 grams, and portable that range from 500 grams and up. After 500 grams, the definition of a portable espresso maker varies depending on other factors that we will talk about further down.
Is Design Based On Preference Or Necessity?
Just like most products, the design is almost always based on preference, but there are occasions where it might be a necessity. After all, with an espresso maker, the most important factor is that you can brew an espresso whenever and wherever you have the need. Some of the factors that you need to consider that are linked to the design are the materials that the espresso maker is made from.
After all, an espresso maker is only good if it is durable and holds up to your traveling plans. Some makers are made from hard plastics and some are made of metals like stainless steel and aluminum. You should always look into this aspect when looking at a particular design. Depending on the design, you might want to steer closer to makers that are made from the metals just because of their overall durability.
What Are Some Additional Features Or Accessories You Need To Consider?
Just like with most products, looking for a full package can make or break a deal. Considering these are portable devices, you need to consider looking for one that comes with or has the option of finding some sort of case that will keep it safe while traveling.
Many portable espresso makers come with their traveling cups, which means you can make your espresso wherever you are without having to worry about tracking down a mug as long as you have hot water and the appropriate heating source for your chosen espresso maker. So, once you have looked at weight, design, manufacturer, and materials, you need to also look and see what sort of accessories if any come with an espresso maker because a fully accessorized espresso maker could cost you less in the long run.
The Importance of Maintenance and Cleaning
Finally, the last major consideration that you need to think about is if the chosen espresso maker will be easy to clean and maintain. Just like anything, these machines need to be cleaned after most uses, but being portable, most people don’t have time for a long and complicated cleaning process while traveling. Therefore, it is important to make sure the espresso maker you choose is known for being easy to clean.
Usually, ESE pods or Nespresso pods are a cleaner option when it comes down to it, but that doesn’t always mean that if your favorite choice can only use ground coffee beans that it is a bad or wrong choice. You just need to consider this aspect, as well, before making your final purchasing decision.
What Kind Of Coffee Can Your Portable Espresso Maker Brew?
Most portable espresso makers can use a range of types of coffee, and some can use only one type. The three main types of coffee that these types of makers can use are Nespresso pods, ground coffee beans, and ESE pods. Everyone has their preference on the type of coffee they prefer, and therefore, it is imperative to make sure the maker you choose will be compatible.
When traveling, Nespresso pods and ESE pods are sometimes easier and less messy to carry, because they are confined, and you do not have to worry about an open bag spilling out in your traveling bags. However, it is also important to understand that not all espresso makers can handle ground coffee beans, but the following reviewed makers do have this capability.
Product Review Guide
1. STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine
This offering from Cuisinart features a high-tech appearance at an affordable price point. It’s compatible with many different K-Cup styles, and capable of brewing cups in five different sizes, from 4- to 12-ounce servings. In addition to the basic brewing option, there’s a hot water button that allows you to put together instant soup, tea, or hot chocolate on the fly. Folks with busy morning schedules should also appreciate the automatic start feature and the user-friendly interface.
The removable drip tray and rinse setting make the Cuisinart SS-10P1 very easy to clean. There’s even a charcoal water filter to ensure that your brew is concocted from the highest-quality ingredients possible. What we love best about this model, however, is the reusable filter cup, which provides all the convenience of a K-Cup unit without sacrificing environmental concerns.
Specifications:
- Weight: 440 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Nespresso pods and ground coffee
- Warranty: 2 years
GOOD
- Easy to maintain
- Foams milk
- Lightweight
BAD
- Requires strength to use
2. AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker with Tote Bag
The AeroPress is not technically an espresso maker, but it does make a delicious cup of espresso-like coffee. Out of most of the portable espresso makers, this one is the lightest amongst them, which makes it the perfect device to carry with you to ensure you get your coffee no matter where you are. You can also make cold-brewed drinks with this machine, as well, and it even comes with a one year warranty to help give you peace of mind on your purchase.
This portable espresso maker does require an external heat source to run, but it is still easy to travel with, and it uses regular ground coffee to create your delicious beverages. It was also designed to be versatile making it the perfect machine for multiple occasions.
Specification:
- Weight: 184 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Ground coffee
- Warranty: 1 year
GOOD
- Ultra lightweight
- Versatile
- Compact design
BAD
- Doesn’t make traditional espressos
3. Handpresso HPWILDHYBRID Coffee Machine
The Handpresso was designed to be lightweight, and due to its design, it can easily be brought everywhere with you, which means that you can enjoy a delicious cup of espresso anywhere you are. It does require an external heat source. So, it is recommended to carry a thermal flask of hot water if you are not going to be in a position to boil water.
The manufacturer provides a two-year warranty on the espresso maker, they have designed it to be easier to use than many other portable espresso makers, on the market. It is designed to work with espresso ground coffee for a traditional taste, or you can choose to use ESE espresso pods, that were designed to be clean and easy to use.
Specifications:
- Weight: 480 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses ESE pods and ground coffee
- Warranty: 2 years
GOOD
- Easy to set up
- Small footprint
- Compatible with pods of different sizes
- Ability to customize brew strength
- Large reservoir
BAD
- Difficult to clean
- Low clearance
- Some K-Cup brands may be prone to breakage
4. Wacaco Minipresso GR Portable Espresso Machine
Wacaco is a well-known manufacturer of espresso makers, and this is one of their most popular mini-portable expresso machines. Unlike other minipressos, this model does not require any sort of compressed air, and you can get different water tanks that allow you to enjoy various espresso types.
This minipresso is hand operated, and it was also designed to be durable, which means it is less likely to break or become damaged while in transport. Another excellent feature of this machine is that it is compatible with a variety of accessories that make the traveling expresso making easier.
Specifications:
- Weight: 360 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Nespresso pods and ground coffee
- Warranty: 1 year
GOOD
- Durable design
- Compact features
- Portable and lightweight
BAD
- Can only do one brew type
5. DELONGHI EMK6 Authentic Italian Espresso
The EMK6 is a small espresso machine designed by DELONGHI, a well-known espresso machine manufacturer. Unlike most of the other machines on this list, this machine is a little bulky in design, but it is still portable. Plus, it is capable of making three to six cups of espresso depending on the filter that is being used.
This design does require electricity to use, but it is easy to use and monitor. To make things better, it also has an automatic shut-off safety system that is designed to turn off when the machine is finished brewing, but it also turns off when you remove the body of the machine from the base.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1100 grams
- Heat Source: Wall Socket or DC to AC power inverted built-in source
- Uses: Ground coffee
- Warranty: 1 year
GOOD
- Made from stainless steel
- Makes up to 6 cups of espresso
- Automatic shut-off safety system
- Easy to use
BAD
- Bulky design
- Requires electricity
6. Bodum Stainless Steel Travel Coffee Press
If you are looking for a machine that brews espressos, then it is not the best option, but this is an excellent traveling companion for any espresso or coffee maker. Bodum manufacturers a lot of products like this, but this one is well insulated and is excellent at keeping hot beverages hot, while on the go.
This mug has a French press design, and it comes with a spill-resistant lid. It also has a built-in plunger, and the outside of the mug has a non-slip material to make the mug excellent for traveling. It can hold up to 15 ounces of coffee or tea, and you can even clean it in a dishwasher, which makes the experience even better. So, although it might not brew your espresso, it will help you travel with your favorite beverage.
Specifications:
- Weight: 410 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Ground coffee
- Warranty: 1 year
GOOD
- Dishwasher safe
- Lightweight
- Insulated
BAD
- Only works as a thermos doesn’t brew
7. Handpresso Hybrid Auto Set
If you have little strength in your hands but enjoy fresh espressos on the go, this might be the best option to take with you on your travels. It was designed to be portable, and although it doesn’t require hot water to work, it does require electricity. If you are heading to a place that doesn’t have a 12V outlet, then you might want to bring an adaptor so it can be used.
Unlike a lot of other portable espresso machines, this one was designed to be easy to use even if you don’t have a lot of physical strength. Plus, you have options on the types of coffee or espresso you want to drink, because it can use both ground coffee and ESE pods. The Handpresso comes with a case to carry everything, and it also comes with a couple of espresso glasses so you have everything you need no matter where you are.
Specifications:
- Weight: 880 grams
- Heat Source: 12-volt built in heat source
- Uses: ESE pods and ground coffee
- Warranty: 2 years
GOOD
- Comes with complete kit
- Excellent for anyone who doesn’t have lots of strength
- Doesn’t require hot water
BAD
- Requires a 12V power outlet or adaptor
8. Bialetti Moka Espresso Maker
Bialetti is a well-known manufacturer of espresso makers, and this is one of their most popular portable products. It was designed for travel, but at the same time, it is capable of producing up to three cups of two servings of coffee or espresso. The design of this maker is meant to be appealing, and they even offer it in several color schemes.
Plus, this was designed to be an affordable option, and it uses ground coffee, which gives you a wide range of flavors to pick and choose from. It does require an external heat source, but the machine is not compatible with microwaves or induction burners as a source. The entire machine is lightweight, but when traveling with it, it is important to understand it needs to be carried with care so as not to keep it from getting broken.
Specifications:
- Weight: 450 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Ground coffee
- Warranty: 2 years
GOOD
- Durable and affordable
- Appealing design with multiple color choices
- Excellent for groups
BAD
- Doesn’t work with microwaves or induction burners
9. WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
Wacaco has manufactured several different portable espresso makers, and although this model is a little more expensive, it is designed to provide a delicious cup of espresso. However, it has several features that make the extra price worth it. For one, it has an ergonomic lightweight design that makes it easy to travel with this machine anywhere you might wish to enjoy a fresh cup of espresso.
It also comes with an 80ml water tank, which is larger than most tanks on portable espresso makers, which makes it easier to produce more espressos than other models. Not to mention, it comes with Wacaco’s newly patented pumping system, which makes it easier to pump your espresso even if you don’t have a lot of physical strength.
Specifications:
- Weight: 336 grams
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Nespresso pods and ground coffee
- Warranty: 1 year
GOOD
- Newly patented pumping system
- 80ml water tank
- Ergonomic lightweight design
BAD
- Slightly more expensive than other portable espresso machines
10. Flair Signature Espresso Maker
Flair has grown its reputation for being a quality espresso maker, and this model is one of its signature devices. It is designed to be both lightweight and portable, but the design is also meant to be sturdy so that it doesn’t break during transit. However, it is important to understand that it does require an external heat source to work properly.
This machine does come with a customized pressure gauge that allows you to get the exact amount of shots desired for your perfect espresso. It is molded with reinforced aluminum materials to help ensure the durability of the machine, and this also makes it easier to clean, as well.
Specifications:
- Weight: 3.2 kilograms
- Heat Source: External heat source required
- Uses: Ground coffee
- Warranty: 5 years
GOOD
- Portable and sturdy design
- Easy to clean
- Customized pressure gauge
BAD
- Can’t be used with a microwave or induction burner
Conclusion: The Best Portable Espresso Maker Is...
As stated, several factors go into purchasing the right espresso maker, and it is important to know what is important to you. However, after reviewing the espresso makers above, we have concluded that the best portable espresso maker is the DELONGHI EMK6 Authentic Italian Espresso. Out of all the reviewed makers, this one is the best all-around espresso maker that we found.
It has everything that you could look for. It’s lightweight and portable, and although it is a little bulky compared to the other models that we reviewed, it’s easy to use and clean. Plus, it has the capability of making multiple cups of espresso if the need does arise.
However, we understand that you might be looking for a smaller espresso maker. Unfortunately, espresso makers do not come one size fits all, which means you need to research and know your particular needs before making that final selection.
