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9 Best Coffee & Espresso Maker Combos in 2024

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This is our review of the best coffee and espresso maker combos with emphasis on beginners. Keep reading to learn more.

Sometimes I’m not in the mood for espresso, but don’t want to buy a separate drip coffee maker. That want led me to craft this guide on some of the best all-in-one machines.

Despite its appearance, the Ninja CM401 is beautiful on the inside with its flexibility with the number of people it can serve. It doesn’t cost much, yet includes excellent quality-of-life features like automatic shutoff. Making it a must-buy if you must get a combination maker.

ninja cm401

Ninja CM401: Best Overall

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 8.75 × 11.99 × 15.04 in (D, W, H)
  • Bars of pressure: 0
  • Boiler type: Single boiler
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Milk frother: yes
  • Water capacity: 40 fl oz = 40 solo shots
  • Material: Stainless steel

It doesn’t produce traditional espresso. Only espresso-like taste—concentrated coffee. I’ll cover other machines that’ll produce actual espresso and black coffee, though.

This is where the fun begins.

Best Coffee & Espresso Maker Combos for Home

  1. Ninja CM401: Best Overall
  2. AeroPress: Best Budget Maker
  3. PHILIPS EP4347: Best Maker With Grinder
  4. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: Best Maker With Pods
  5. Ninja CFN601: Easiest To Use All-In-One Machine
  6. Gevi Professional: Best Super-Automatic Maker
  7. De’Longhi All-in-one Combination: Best De’Longhi All-In-One Maker
  8. Bialetti Moka Express: Best Stovetop Combination Maker
  9. Espressione Combination: Best Maker UK

9 Ultimate Coffee & Espresso Makers: Top Picks

When shopping for a machine that makes black coffee and espresso, you’re sacrificing quality and functionality for convenience and savings. Many coffee makers under this category (that are affordable) won’t include proper milk frothers or features typically found in espresso machines.

Like PID temperature monitoring and control. I’ll emphasize more on this point throughout the guide.

Each section will cover the goods and bads, who it’s best for, and what parts of our criteria the machine meets. You’ll also find specific features that make it stand out.

Before moving on, here’s a legend that may clear up confusion:

  • Dimensions:
    • D: depth
    • W: width
    • H: height
  • PID = proportional integral derivative: monitors water temperature & makes minor adjustments to keep it to a set temperature.
  • ESE = Easy Serve Espresso: pods with pre-ground beans to make brewing drinks easier.

If you don’t understand some of what I’m talking about, refer to the section “How to Choose the best Combo Machine.” It should clear things up

Let’s admire this list’s winner—

1. Ninja CM401: Best Overall

ninja cm401
Price$$
Dimensions8.75 × 11.99 × 15.04 in (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure0
Boiler TypeSingle boiler
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherYes
Water Capacity40 fl oz = 40 solo shots or 12 cups
MaterialStainless steel

Pros

  • Removable water reservoir
  • 6 brew sizes
  • Automatic shutoff

Cons

  • Doesn’t look good
  • Folding milk frother isn’t convenient

While the CM401 resembles a blender attached to a forklift, it works great for anyone who wants a machine that’ll support various cup sizes and brew types (coffee and espresso).

There’s XL cup, travel mug, 1 cup, multi-serve travel mug, half carafe, and full carafe. Giving you various ways to prepare your coffee. Whether you’re going to work (travel mug) or entertaining guests (full carafe).

It also deals with coffee blooming, which I like. This spreads out the flavors to enhance extraction. But there’s a massive downside to this machine.

You’re technically not getting espresso. Due to the lack of pressure. While the product says you can make lattes, macchiatos, and cappuccinos, that’s technically untrue. Those drinks include espresso plus frothed or steamed milk.

You’ll get the milky taste and texture when frothing milk. But it won’t come close to what you’d get with a separate milk frother or one built into a standalone espresso machine.

And since it uses a single boiler, it’ll take longer to reheat. Not ideal for those who make coffee while in a rush to get ready for work.

I also love the automatic shutoff feature. Once finished brewing, the machine will power off after an hour. Great for saving electricity or if you’re in a rush to leave your home and forget to turn it off.

Looking for a cheaper, more affordable option?


2. AeroPress: Best Budget Coffee & Espresso Maker Combo

aeropress
Price$
Dimensions4.75 × 4.5 × 11.75 in (D, W, H)
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherNo
Water Capacity10 fl oz = 1 cup
MaterialSilicone

Pros

  • Portable
  • Easy to clean
  • Great for learning coffee-making basics
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not actual espresso
  • Has a learning curve
  • Makes 1 drink at a time
  • Requires paper filters

The AeroPress doesn’t cost much, yet it delivers portable espresso-like drinks. Making it ideal for folks on the move, or who don’t have much kitchen space.

If you want concentrated coffee with crema, you must hone your craft and make many drinks. But it’ll give you black coffee and a drink like espresso.

It doesn’t include a boiler, grinder, or frother. You have to buy all these separate components if you want to customize your drinks. Another downside stems from the single-use paper filters.

They’re not the best for the environment and add an extra cost to maintenance. I suppose that’s not too bad, considering they don’t use electricity. An added cost from electric combo machines.

Though the AeroPress is made from silicone, they last, on average, 2–3 years. In my experience, they’ve lasted longer than 4 years. You’ll need to care for them and clean often to make them last this long.

Speaking of. These don’t require descaling, another huge advantage over other machines.

Almost every all-in-one machine won’t provide the best-tasting coffee drinks, since it doesn’t specialize in coffee or espresso. If you want to switch between concentrated and black coffee, you’re better off getting an AeroPress or Moka Pot.

I’ll cover it later.

Perhaps, you need a grinder. Here’s a machine that includes one.


3. PHILIPS EP4347: Best All-in-One Coffee Machine With Grinder

philips ep4347
Price$$$
Dimensions9.6 × 11.42 × 14.6 in (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure15 bars
Boiler TypeThermoblock
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherYes
Water Capacity60 fl oz = 50 solo shots
MaterialPlastic

Pros

  • Touch screen buttons
  • Uses a ceramic grinder
  • Removable components

Cons

  • No adjustable milk frother
  • Plastic feel cheap

PHILIPS’ combination coffee maker is great for anyone who can afford it and wants to automate their coffee- and espresso-making experience. Ideal for those in a rush or who want customized drinks at the press of a button.

It’s a super-automatic espresso machine, which means it’ll grind, time espresso shots, deal with water pressure, and froth your milk. But this one can also make black coffee. A welcomed addition.

Unlike every other machine on this list, it uses a thermoblock water boiler, which heats your device on demand. Making it ideal for brewing drinks back-to-back.

I love the automatic milk frother. And you should, too, if you drink lattes and cappuccinos. All you do is press a button on the touchscreen (e.g., Caffe ai Lait), and it’ll do all the work for you.

Since it’s automatic, you can’t control the milk froth texture by hand. But that doesn’t matter. You know what you’re getting yourself into with a fully-automatic machine.

Despite my praise, the machine’s ceramic grinder and plastic body fall behind. Ceramic coffee bean grinders are superior to steel since they don’t overheat, which can make your drink more bitter. But ceramic burrs don’t stay sharp as long as steel ones.

And plastic espresso machine bodies may not last as long as stainless steel. Since they’re more susceptible to wear and tear.

What if you want to use K-Cup and Nespresso pods?


4. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: Best Coffee and Espresso Maker Combo With Pods

hamilton beach
Price$$
Dimensions9.84 × 13.68 × 11.02 in (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure19 bars
Boiler TypeSingle
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherNo
Water Capacity56 fl oz = 56 solo shots
MaterialPlastic

Pros

  • Supports Nespresso & K-Cup pods
  • Removable water reservoir
  • Bulky

Cons

  • Unsightly
  • Requires separate grinder

The Beach FlexBrew is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to use K-Cup or Nespresso pods, but doesn’t mind sacrificing bean variety for espresso.

It does allow you to use ground coffee when making black coffee, though. Which requires buying a separate coffee grinder. Or doing your business at complimentary coffee grinders in grocery stores.

The machine’s very user-friendly since it has a removable water tank, which makes for easy cleaning. Then it allows you to choose among 8-, 10-, or 14 fl oz of black coffee. Ideal for anyone who wants to fill travel mugs.

The 19 bars of pressure make Hamilton’s bulky boy stand out, since it’ll supposedly brew your drink faster. Though, using over 15 bars of pressure usually leads to more bitter drinks.

I keep bringing up the machine’s size. That’s because it’s not great for small kitchens or coffee carts. 

If you want something smaller, here’s an option.


5. Ninja CFN601: Easiest to Use All-in-One Machine

ninja cfn601
Price$$
Dimensions12.21 × 9.84 × 14.96 (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure19
Boiler TypeSingle
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherYes
Water Capacity12 cups
MaterialStainless steel

Pros

  • Also works with Nespresso capsules
  • Removable water tank

Cons

  • Unsightly
  • Limited brew functions
  • Fold-away frother feels cheap
  • Can’t use coffee grounds to make espresso

The CFN601 works best for anyone who doesn’t mind using Nespresso pods for espresso and a cheap-looking machine taking up their countertop. And who doesn’t care much for lattes.

Because the fold-away wand isn’t the best. It reminds me of one of those $5.00 handheld milk frothers that only spin and don’t blow steam. But the machine’s ” cheap ” look contributes to its slower price.

You’ll have something that can froth milk, make black coffee, and brew Nespresso that’s cheaper than many Nespresso machines with such features. The chunky carafe also allows you to serve many guests black coffee without pressing the “brew” button a million times.

Meanwhile, I recommend throwing a blanket over the machine while you have guests. Make up a story as to how you got a large carafe full of coffee.

I kid.

It has 19 bars of pressure, which is great for more bitter tastes. It’s simple to clean due to the removable components. And the stainless steel body should make it last for years.

The following section will provide a more compact option.


6. Gevi Professional: Best Compact Coffee & Espresso Maker

gevi professional
Price$$
Dimensions15.4 × 9.89 × 14.85 in (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure20 bars
Boiler TypeSingle
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherYes
Water Capacity35 fl oz = 35 single shots
MaterialStainless steel

Pros

  • Cup warmer can cook paninis
  • Uses pre-infusion
  • Also works with Nespresso capsules
  • Pressure gauge

Cons

  • No removable water tank
  • Machine gets very hot
  • A bit expensive for what you get

The Gevi Professional leans more toward being an espresso machine. But it’s great for smaller kitchens due to its compact size.

Though it appears as solely an espresso machine on the surface, you could buy a separate portafilter to use Nespresso coffee and espresso pods. Giving you the means to make both types of drinks in a decent-quality machine.

This machine serves 3 purposes. The third is to make paninis while waiting for your device to heat. Place your sandwich on the cup warmer, wait for your machine to get hot (a huge issue), then bam. You have a heated sandwich.

Speaking of sandwiches, here’s a compliment sandwich:

I like that it has pre-infusion, which makes it better for extracting flavors from your espresso. The lack of a removable water tank makes cleaning unbearable, despite the product description’s claims of a “humanized design.”

You could justify these downsides with the infusion of a pressure gauge, which prevents you from using intuition as to when to time your shots. But the 20 bars of pressure is unnecessary. I’ll cover why in a bit.

Weigh the pros and cons and determine whether it’s worth buying. Worst case scenario, you have a 1-year warranty to fall back on. The included features and stainless steel body make me feel more confident to recommend such a product at its price point.

Maybe you’re a De’Longhi fan. I got you.


7. De’Longhi All-in-one Combination: Best De’Longhi Coffee and Espresso Maker

delonghi all in one combination
Price$$
Dimensions11.02 × 14.52 × 12.79 in (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure15 bars
Boiler TypeSingle
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherYes
Water Capacity10 cups
MaterialStainless steel

Pros

  • Simple (& touchscreen) user interface
  • Removable water tank & drip tray

Cons

  • Chunky
  • Can engage machine when bumping knob
  • No automatic shutoff

De’Longhi’s all-in-one machine works like a charm for anyone who wants a machine that’ll make “proper” espresso and includes a decent steam milk frother.

You’d need a milk frother to make drinks like macchiatos and cappuccinos. Most combination machines have cheap-looking and almost impractical milk frothers. De’Longhi’s machine will give you milk-based drinks with better texture and taste.

Then, it includes a dual heating system, which allows you to brew coffee and espresso simultaneously. A fantastic addition for someone who wants to make espresso for themselves and their guests. Or to make a Red Eye coffee drink.

A beverage that calls for a shot of espresso mixed with black coffee.

The 15 bars of pressure will ensure your drinks aren’t too sour or bitter. Since you can’t go higher with pressure, bitter flavor lovers may not appreciate this much. Though, it’s standard with espresso machines.

Since it has all these features, the machine demands a lot of counter real estate. Not ideal for smaller kitchens. And it has no automatic shutoff like the NINJA machines I mentioned, which is a bit of a deal killer.

Considering I always forget to turn off coffee makers.

And despite lacking such features, De’Longhi’s combo maker costs more than many machines on this list. But for a good reason. It brews good coffee and espresso, and I wouldn’t be ashamed to have it on my countertop.

Want a stovetop experience? Read on.


8. Bialetti Moka Express: Best Stovetop Combination Coffee Maker

bialetti moka
Price$
Dimensions6.5 × 4.53 × 8.66 (D, W, H)
Warranty2 years
Milk FrotherNo
Water Capacity1–12 cups
MaterialAluminum

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Portable

Cons

  • Doesn’t work w/ induction stovetops
  • Not actual espresso
  • Has a learning curve

Bialetti’s Moka Express is technically the most compact stovetop combination maker that’s also affordable. It’s great for anyone who wants to have coffee and an espresso-like beverage

“Espresso-like” means concentrated coffee.

It’s a stovetop maker; plop this baby on a stovetop and let it brew. So long as it’s not induction. Because the aluminum body of the Moka isn’t magnetic, meaning it won’t do anything when trying to brew.

If you have an induction oven, search for a Moka pot made of stainless steel or other magnetic materials.

The price is the best on the list, considering you’re getting great-tasting concentrated coffee, a better warranty than most machines, and a device you could stash in a cupboard. Making it perfect for compact kitchens.

One issue arises from needing to buy a separate coffee bean grinder. With all that space and money you’re saving, this shouldn’t be an issue.

Those in the United Kingdom will appreciate this following recommendation.


9. Espressione Combination: Best Coffee & Espresso Maker Combo UK

espressione combination
Price£££
Dimensions33 × 35 × 27 cm (D, W, H)
Bars of Pressure19 bars
Boiler TypeThermoblock
Warranty1 year
Milk FrotherYes
Water Capacity10 cups of coffee
MaterialStainless Steel, Aluminum, Plastic

Pros

  • Removable water reservoir
  • Easy-to-understand buttons

Cons

  • Requires a learning curve
  • Must buy separate coffee grinder

The Espressione Combination works great for folks in the UK due to its compatibility with electrical outlets and warranty support. It’s also great since it’ll heat up quicker. Reducing downtime between drinks.

That’s thanks to its thermoblock heater. It’ll heat much quicker than single boilers many cheaper espresso machines include. Whether you’re making multiple drinks for yourself, or someone else in your home, you’ll likely appreciate this feature.

Despite the lack of features, the fact that it’s a dual-purpose coffee machine with a thermoblock heater makes it competitively priced. Otherwise the removable water reservoir is the only point that makes it stand out.

Since it makes the machine much easier to clean. And the 19 bars of pressure is “okay,” but not exceptional. Unless you love bitter coffee. Since the ideal number of bars you need is 9–15.

Didn’t understand a lot of the stuff I covered? This next section may make things clear.


How to Choose the Best Coffee & Espresso Maker

Follow this criteria to shop for your next espresso machine:

ChecklistWhy it’s Important
Water PressureDetermines drink flavor.
Ease of UseWon’t require a steep learning curve.
Time to HeatDetermines time required to make the next drink.
DesignIt should fit into your kitchen—design- and size-wise.
PriceShould fit within your budget.
Brewing CapabilitiesWhat it can brew.
Additional FeaturesTakes less time to brew & provides better-tasting drinks.
Built-in GrinderWhether the machine includes a grinder.

Each section will cover important factors to consider with each criterion. I’ll then emphasize each point and who they work best for.

If you want to more detailed guide, read our espresso machine buying guide.

We have much to cover. Let’s get to it.

1. Machine Water Pressure

  • <7 bars: under-extracted; super sour
  • 7–9 bars: Mild flavor & a bit sour
  • 9 bars: sweet spot; balanced flavor & excellent starting point
  • 15 bars: stronger-tasting drink, but not too bitter
  • >15 bars: over-extracted drink; excessively bitter

9 bars of pressure is the sweet spot for making drinks [1]. Not too sour or bitter. Going up to 15 bars will give you a bit more bitter drink, while not over-extracting it.

You may have seen combo machines on this list with 19 to 20 bars. But why? To give bitter drink lovers more opportunities to brew their drinks. 

2. User Experience

Make cleaning easier by keeping an eye out for these features:

  • Easy-to-understand buttons: Less of a learning curve.
  • Touchscreen interface: More customization & less manual work.
  • Removable components: Easier to clean; no need to dig into the machine.
  • Descaling notification: Machine shows when it requires descaling.
  • Automatic descaling: Descales for you.
  • Built-in grinder: Grinds beans for you.

Most combo machines will include simple buttons to give you the choice between espresso and coffee. For instance, one of the NINJA machines I mentioned allows you to choose between espresso, lungo, and over ice.

Almost all the machines I offer don’t offer a touchscreen UI, which tends to give you more drink choices.

Removable components like water tanks and drip trays make cleaning machines or refilling reservoirs much easier. What would you rather do, carry your device to the sink to replenish the water or only carry the tank?

Unfortunately, many combo machines don’t include these. I highly recommend opting for this feature above all else. Because it’ll save you time. And you from dropping your machine.

Descaling is the process of removing mineral buildup from machines. Failure to do this will result in clogged or malfunctioning appliances. Most manufacturers recommend descaling your device every 1–3 months.

You may not be able to remember this, though. That’s where descaling notifications come in. Though, most affordable machines don’t include them. Most machines with this feature, and automatic descaling, cost over $500.

Determine whether it’s worth getting a built-in grinder.

3. Time to Heat Machine & Boiler Type

  • Temperature control: Keeps machine at set temperature.
  • Boiler type: The time it takes to heat your machine.
  • Time to heat frother: Time before you can froth milk.

Most machines, especially combo machines, don’t include Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control. It’s a feature that constantly monitors water temperatures and adjusts the machine to maintain the same temperature.

It’s an ideal feature for folks who are making multiple drinks back-to-back and don’t want to wait for the machine to reheat.

Another component that affects this is a boiler. Most combination machines have single boilers, which take the longest to heat.

Before emphasizing, let’s explore the different boiler types:

  • Double boilers (best): Uses separate boilers for simultaneous brewing & steaming.
  • Thermoblock (runner-up): Heats on demand & fast warm-up time.
  • Single boiler (worst): Lower cost, but takes much longer to heat.

It’s rare to see double boilers on machines less than $1,000. And they’re only practical for offices, coffee shops, and get-togethers. Thermoblock heaters work great for multiple folks in households who want to make drinks at the same time.

If you can’t access either of the above boilers, you’re stuck with single ones, which are technically only ideal for brewing for a person. However, combo machines usually include glass carafes to keep black coffee warm.

The same doesn’t go for espresso.

And the frother. Most machines in this category won’t include devices to maintain frother temperature. Meaning, you’ll need to wait more time between brewing lattes or cappuccinos.

4. Design 

  • Size: If your machine can fit on counters & carts.
  • Aesthetics: Whether the maker fits your kitchen’s style.
  • Materials: Effects how your machine looks & how long it lasts.
  • Water reservoir size: Number of cups your machine can brew before refilling.

Combination machines require a carafe holder for black coffee, a separate area for brewing espresso, and multiple slots for adding espresso beans. These machines usually won’t fit in small kitchens, studio apartments, or compact coffee carts.

The only way around this is to get the Bialetti. You’ll have an espresso-style drink and access to black coffee. All it requires is a stovetop. So long as it’s not induction.

Most combination machines are subjectively ugly. If you’re after something fitting your kitchen’s theme, you’re best off getting separate drip coffee and espresso machines.

As for materials, many of these use plastic housing, which makes them look cheap and not last long. Opt for stainless steel if possible. I’ll emphasize further in the next section.

Most all-in-one machines will have water reservoirs large enough to make at least 5 cups of black coffee and over 5 espresso shots. Making them ideal for homes that don’t want to refill the tanks continually.

5. Budget

  • Warranty: They often indicate how long the machines will last.
  • Opt for better materials: Better materials usually result in longer-lasting machines.
  • Electricity usage: Consider voltage required to calculate electricity costs.

Most combination machines will cost $100 to $300. The higher-end ones with more features will cost $900. Unfortunately, the costs don’t account for milk frothers (if it doesn’t include one) and coffee grinders.

Those additions will cost another $100–200 each. Depending on how much you want to invest in this hobby.

Most espresso machines, regardless of type, will offer warranties of up to a year. If they don’t, stay away. Because these often indicate how long manufacturers believe their products will last. Though, in my experience, most machines outlived their warranty period.

I mentioned that you should get stainless steel machines. They’re less susceptible to wear and tear and melting. Thus, they’ll last longer and won’t require immediate replacements

Another factor to consider regarding cost is electricity usage. It’s not too bad unless you’re making 20 drinks back-to-back. Here’s an example. Say you pay $0.5 per kWh and a machine requires 1,550 watts [2].

Use it for 12 min a day total, and you’ll pay $6 a year in electricity.

6. Brewing Capabilities

  • Shot preparation methods: Lungo, doppio, solo shots, & ristretto.
  • Pressure: How much water bursts through your machine.
  • Included milk frother: Needed for adding oxygen to milk to make drinks like lattes.

Not applying the right amount of pressure could make your drink too bitter or sour. Refer to the “water pressure” section to learn more.

Many espresso maker and coffee machine combos will include milk frothers, though many folks complain about their ease of cleaning. Ones that don’t include frothers will require you to buy a separate frother. So long as you want to make milk-based drinks like flat whites or cappuccinos.

All espresso machines (with frothers) will allow you to make all these drinks:

AmericanoCortadoLong macchiato
Black EyeGuillermoRápido y Sucio
CappuccinoGalãoCafé Crema
Dripped EyeIrish CoffeeFreddo Cappuccino
Flat WhiteCafé MediciAffogato al Caffe
LatteCafé BreveMocha
Lazy EyeVienna CoffeeCubano
Manilo Long BlackMacchiatoZorro
Red EyeEspresso RomanoMarocchino
List of espresso drinks espresso machines can make.

Very pricey models, like the PHILIPS have pre-programmed functions to automatically froth the right amount of milk. And they’ll apply the right pressure to create specific drinks like Cafe au lait and macchiatos.

Regarding different espresso preparation methods:

Other combo machines, like one of the NINJAs, come with a lungo—watered down shot—button. If machines don’t include such buttons, you’ll need to make your own lungo, ristretto (concentrated), solo shots, and doppio (double). 

7. Additional Quality-of-life Features

Keep an eye out for these features:

FeatureDescriptionBest For
Programmable SettingsAllows users to customize settings like temperature, volume, and strength.Those who want personalized espresso.
Pre-InfusionGently wets coffee grounds before extraction to ensure even flavor release.Coffee connoisseurs seeking optimal taste.
PID Temperature ControllerPrecisely maintains water temperature for consistent brewing results [3].Users seeking temperature consistency.
Hot Water DispenserProvides instant hot water for tea, hot chocolate, or Americanos.Users who enjoy a variety of hot beverages.
Energy Saving ModeReduces power consumption when the machine is not in use.Environmentally-conscious users.
Cup WarmersHeats cups to maintain espresso temperature, enhancing flavor and aroma.Those who want to maintain an ideal serving temperature.

Manufacturers make most combo machines to only be able to make coffee and espresso. To appeal to casual coffee makers who don’t demand luxury features.

If you do see these features on an all-in-one machine, prepare to pay much more than $300.

Let’s move on to frequently asked questions that may further clarify any information.

8. Built-in Grinder vs. Separate Grinder

1. Built-in Grinder

Espresso machines with integrated grinders combine grinding and brewing capabilities into a single device. Appealing to those who desire a compact and convenient solution.

Here’s why:

Pros:

  • Compact design: Integrates 2 appliances, saving countertop space.
  • User convenience: Simplifies the brewing process, making it faster.
  • Coordinated performance: Designed to work in harmony with the machine.
  • Tidiness: Keeps coffee grounds contained within the unit, reducing mess.

Cons:

  • Upgrade limitations: If a component breaks, the machine may require replacement.
  • Possible lack of precision: Might not provide the accuracy as standalone models.
  • Higher price: May cost more than buying separate devices.
  • Reduced flexibility: May be tailored specifically for espresso, limiting their use for other brewing methods.

Most combo machines won’t include built-in grinders. Meaning, you’ll need to buy a separate one.

Here’s a more realistic option for your situation.

2. Separate Grinder

Dedicated espresso grinders offer specialized grinding features. They work best for those who prioritize precision and adaptability. Explore the advantages and disadvantages to learn why.

Pros:

  • Upgrade options: Can modify or replace individual components as necessary.
  • Accurate grinding: Often yield superior grind consistency & control.
  • Versatility: Can fine-tune for various brewing techniques, not just espresso.
  • Straightforward maintenance: Can clean Individual parts without impacting the setup.

Cons:

  • Increased space requirements: Additional countertop space is needed.
  • Added expense: Acquiring 2 devices may be pricier.
  • Extra steps: Must transfer coffee grounds between appliances, adding time & effort.
  • Increased cleanup: May produce more mess and require additional cleaning.

To save space your all-in-one machine is already filling, consider Nespresso or ESE pods.

Explore why it’s important for your machine to heat up fast.

FAQs

Read these frequently asked questions that focus on espresso maker and coffee machine combinations.

Can You Make Coffee & Espresso in the Same Machine?

Yes. Some combination machines, also known as espresso and drip coffee makers, are designed to make both coffee and espresso in the same unit.

Can Nespresso Do Coffee & Espresso?

Nespresso machines can make coffee and espresso using different capsule sizes and brewing settings.

Our Verdict

Here are the top 3 choices in case you need a refresher:

  1. Ninja CM401: Affordable & can make many drink types.
  2. AeroPress: Portable & ideal for making espresso while traveling or camping.
  3. PHILIPS EP4347: It’ll automate making espresso & coffee drinks.

Despite its size, I chose the Ninja CM401 as the number one choice due to its flexibility with making different sizes of drinks. The inclusion of an auto shutoff feature makes it amazing for forgetful folks like myself.

Get it now.

ninja cm401

Ninja CM401: Best Overall

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 8.75 × 11.99 × 15.04 in (D, W, H)
  • Bars of pressure: 0
  • Boiler type: Single boiler
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Milk frother: yes
  • Water capacity: 40 fl oz = 40 solo shots
  • Material: Stainless steel
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Author

Tim Lee is, as you might have guessed the founder of TimsCoffee.com. He is a former barista and a professional web publisher. He has now combined his knowledge and expertise in both subjects to create TimsCoffee.com.
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2 thoughts on “9 Best Coffee & Espresso Maker Combos in 2024”

  1. Just wanted to say a quick thanks for this super helpful article on coffee/espresso makers! As someone who’s kinda new to the whole coffee game, this guide was a lifesaver. Seriously, choosing between all these machines can feel like rocket science sometimes. 😅

    Also, gotta say, I’m really digging this website. It’s got this cool, easy vibe that makes sifting through all the tech talk a breeze. Plus, I can actually understand what I’m reading, which is a huge plus!

    Reply
    • Hi Nawras,

      Thanks so much for your kind words! Really glad you found the article helpful. We love sharing our coffee passion and it’s awesome to know it resonates with our readers.

      Reply

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