10 Best Pod Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

The CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine is designed for those who love espresso-based drinks and want to make them at home. With a professional 20 bar pressure system and a powerful boiler, it offers high-quality extraction for a rich and fragrant coffee experience. The built-in pressure gauge is useful for making adjustments according to your taste preferences. The machine's compact and stylish stainless steel design fits well in any kitchen, making it practical for home or office use.

The 34oz removable water tank allows you to brew multiple cups without frequent refilling, and the semi-automatic operation mode simplifies the brewing process. It also includes a steam milk frother for creating creamy microfoam milk, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos, and allows for milk foam art, enhancing the entire experience for aspiring baristas. However, the machine does require cooling down after frothing milk to prevent overheating, which might be inconvenient for some users.

Cleaning the machine is straightforward due to its detachable components, but some users might find managing the pressure settings challenging. Despite these minor drawbacks, this espresso machine is a solid choice for those looking for a durable, stylish, and efficient machine to make a variety of espresso drinks at home.

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by De'Longhi is a versatile pod-espresso machine designed for home use. It stands out with its ability to brew both coffee and espresso with a single button press, making it convenient for users who enjoy a variety of drinks. The machine heats up quickly in 25 seconds and has an automatic shut-off feature for energy efficiency. It offers four different cup sizes, catering to different preferences, and includes a 40-ounce water tank, which is relatively large and reduces the frequency of refilling.

Additionally, it comes with a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules to get you started right away. However, a notable drawback is the lack of a built-in milk frother, which means users will need to purchase a separate frother for milk-based beverages like lattes and cappuccinos. The machine is designed to be easy to clean with reusable filters and a used pod container, but as with any pod machine, users should be mindful of descaling to maintain performance.

The compact and sleek design in Ink Black should fit well in most kitchen spaces, though its longer depth might require careful placement. The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a strong choice for those seeking convenience and variety in their coffee and espresso drinks, with minor considerations regarding milk frothing and space.

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus by De'Longhi is a user-friendly pod espresso machine well-suited for those who want quick coffee or espresso with minimal effort. It heats up fast—ready in just 25 seconds—and offers four cup sizes, from espresso shots to larger coffee servings, making it versatile for different tastes. The water tank is removable and reasonably sized, allowing for multiple cups before needing a refill, which adds to convenience.

While it doesn't include a built-in milk frother, you can still use it to brew espresso that pairs well with milk if you have a separate frother. Its design is sleek and compact enough to fit comfortably on most kitchen counters, and the button controls are straightforward, making operation simple even for beginners. Cleaning is made easier by the removable tank and automatic shut-off feature, which also saves energy.

The machine works exclusively with Nespresso's Vertuo pods, which are widely available and recyclable, supporting sustainability. If you prefer more pod variety outside of Nespresso's ecosystem or want an integrated milk frother, this model might feel limited. This coffee maker is ideal for anyone wanting a fast, no-fuss machine that covers a range of coffee styles through convenient pods, although it lacks built-in milk frothing and limits pod choices to Nespresso's system.