The best coffee espresso maker combo offers unparalleled versatility for mornings, serving both dedicated espresso lovers and drip coffee enthusiasts in a single, efficient unit. Finding the right one depends on your specific brewing preferences, counter space, and desired features, as quality can vary significantly. Choosing a unit that doesn’t align with your usage habits can lead to disappointing results, wasted counter space, and diminished beverage enjoyment.
With so many options on the market, navigating the choices to find a machine that perfectly balances espresso intensity with satisfying drip coffee is crucial. Below, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 coffee espresso maker combo units to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen.
For those seeking the best coffee espresso maker combo, the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System stands out with its 19-bar pressure system designed for rich espresso and smooth crema, alongside versatile brewing options for diverse coffee preferences.
Best Coffee Espresso Maker Combos Compared
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso Best for: Espresso & Drip Lovers | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | De’Longhi COM530M All-In-One Combination Coffee and Espresso Machine, 47 ounces Best for: All-in-One Brewing | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew™ Pro Specialty Coffee Best for: Specialty Coffee Variety | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, & Best for: 3-in-1 Versatility | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series, Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, Cold Best for: Cold Brew Options | Check Price |
How We Picked
We prioritized the best coffee espresso maker combo by evaluating real-world performance and standout features. Durability and build quality were paramount, leading us to favor machines offering robust construction and user-friendly interfaces. We ruled out models with limited brewing options or those lacking advanced brewing technologies.
Safety and long-term value were also considered, ensuring the selected machines are dependable choices for coffee enthusiasts seeking versatility and quality in their home brewing experience.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Pressure Differentiates True Espresso Machines
When looking at combo units, the espresso component’s pressure is paramount. A true espresso extraction requires around 9 bars of pressure to properly force hot water through finely-ground coffee. Look for machines specifying a 19-bar system, like the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System.
Lower pressure, or unspecified pressure, often indicates a weaker espresso-style shot, not the rich, crema-topped experience you’d expect from dedicated espresso machines.
Grind Consistency is Key for Espresso
The quality of your espresso shot is heavily reliant on the coffee grind. For combo machines that include a grinder, like the De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo, pay attention to the grind settings. Too coarse a grind or insufficient tamping can lead to inadequate pressure and a weak brew, as noted by De’Longhi.
Ideally, a combo unit should offer multiple, precise grind settings to accommodate the fine consistency needed for espresso extraction.
1. Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso
Best for: Espresso capsule brewer with coffee ground option.
A 19-bar pressure system extracts ultra-flavorful espresso, creating a silky-smooth crema for home coffeehouse drinks. The fold-away frother prepares cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and more directly from its built-in system.
This 1550-watt machine accommodates both espresso capsules and coffee grounds, offering three espresso styles (Espresso, Lungo, Over Ice) and drip coffee. It features a touchscreen interface and brews directly into your cup.
Pros
- 19-bar pressure system for rich espresso
- Integrated fold-away frother for milk drinks
- Brews espresso capsules or coffee grounds
- Multiple espresso and coffee sizes available
Cons
- Nespresso Original compatible pods only, limiting capsule choice.
This machine is ideal for individuals or couples who enjoy variety in their morning beverage. It’s perfect for quickly making both single espresso shots and larger drip coffees.
2. De’Longhi COM530M All-In-One Combination Coffee and Espresso Machine, 47 ounces
Best for: Programmable drip coffee and espresso combination machine.
The 1500-watt De’Longhi All-In-One handles your morning coffee or authentic espressos and cappuccinos with its dual coffee maker type. Its 47-ounce capacity allows for brewing multiple servings at once.
This fully automatic machine accepts both ground coffee and pods, with a reusable filter and a milk frother for creating specialty drinks. It offers programmable settings, a touchscreen interface, and operates on 115 volts.
Pros
- 47-ounce water reservoir for multiple cups
- Accepts both ground coffee and pods
- Programmable settings for convenience
- Integrated milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos
Cons
- Requires specific grind size and tamping for optimal espresso pressure.
This versatile brewer suits households that drink both drip coffee and espresso throughout the day. It’s a good choice for those who appreciate programmability for their morning routine.
3. Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew™ Pro Specialty Coffee
Best for: Dual brew coffee maker for grounds and K-cups.
Brewing K-Cup pods faster than the Keurig K-Elite, this 1550-watt single-serve coffee maker is perfect for a fast-paced lifestyle. Its 13-size dual system accommodates both grounds and pods for maximum beverage options.
This drip coffee machine offers 5 grounds brew sizes (Sm, XL Cup, Travel, XL Travel Mug) and 4 carafe brew sizes (¼, ½, ¾, Full Carafe). It also provides 4 traditional pod brew sizes (6-12oz) and includes a milk frother and auto-clean function.
Pros
- Faster pod brewing startup speed
- 13 total brew sizes across grounds and pods
- Compatible with K-Cups and coffee grounds
- Includes milk frother and auto-clean function
Cons
- Not smart home compatible, limiting remote operation.
This machine is designed for busy individuals or families who need quick, customizable coffee options throughout the day. It’s perfect for households with diverse coffee preferences.
4. Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, &
Best for: 3-in-1 espresso, drip, and cold brew machine.
This 1650-watt machine combines three brewing functions into one unit, offering espresso, balanced drip coffee, and rapid cold brew. It delivers two espresso styles—double or quad shot—and multiple drip and cold brew sizes.
Enjoy 3 drip coffee styles (classic, rich, over ice) and 2 cold brew styles (cold pressed espresso, cold brew coffee), all available in sizes from 6 to 18 oz. Features include a milk frother, auto shut-off, and programmable timer.
Pros
- 2 espresso, 3 drip, and 2 cold brew styles
- Wide range of brew sizes (6-18 oz)
- Integrated milk frother for specialty drinks
- Programmable timer for scheduled brewing
Cons
- Requires manual input for grind size recommendations.
This unit is ideal for the aspiring home barista who enjoys experimenting with different coffee styles. It’s perfect for small kitchens needing maximum brewing versatility without sacrificing counter space.
5. Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series, Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, Cold
Best for: 4-in-1 espresso, drip, cold brew, and hot water system.
The 1650-watt Ninja Luxe Café Pro offers four distinct brewing systems: espresso, balanced drip coffee, rapid cold brew, and an independent hot water system. Brew up to five espresso styles, including ristretto and lungo, alongside other coffee preparations.
This machine provides 3 drip coffee styles, 2 cold brew styles, and hot water for drinks like americanos or tea. Drip and cold brew options are available in sizes from 6 to 18 oz, and it features an adjustable brew strength control.
Pros
- Independent hot water system for teas and americanos
- Five espresso styles including ristretto and lungo
- Accommodates drip, cold brew, and hot water
- Adjustable brew strength for personalized taste
Cons
- Does not include an integrated grinder for whole beans. (Grounds input only in data)
This system is perfect for households with diverse beverage preferences, from strong espresso to tea or hot chocolate. It provides extensive functionality for a true coffee enthusiast.
6. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
Best for: All-in-one bean-to-espresso machine with grinder.
The Breville Barista Express delivers third-wave specialty coffee at home with its integrated precision conical burr grinder, grinding beans on demand for espresso in under a minute. It’s an all-in-one solution for crafting authentic espresso.
This 1600-watt manual espresso machine features dose control grinding, enabling custom grind sizes for any roast. It utilizes low-pressure pre-infusion to ensure even extraction and boasts ThermoCoil heating for optimal water temperature stability.
Pros
- Integrated conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Dose control grinding for personalized extraction
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for better crema
- ThermoCoil heating system for stable temperatures
Cons
- Operation is entirely manual, requiring user intervention for all steps.
This machine is designed for the dedicated espresso aficionado who wants hands-on control over every step of the brewing process. It’s perfect for achieving café-quality espresso at home.
7. Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker | Includes 10-Cup Carafe, Fold-Away Frother,
Best for: Specialty coffee maker with frother and multi-size brews.
Four versatile brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty Brew—are available from this 1550-watt coffee maker, enabling the creation of rich coffee concentrate for lattes and cappuccinos. Brew fresh over ice for flavorful iced coffee without dilution.
This drip coffee machine offers six brew sizes, from a single cup or travel size to a half or full carafe. The integrated milk frother allows for easy preparation of milk-based coffeehouse drinks, and it includes a 10-cup carafe.
Pros
- Four distinct brew styles for versatility
- Specialty brew for rich coffee concentrate
- Brew over ice for non-diluted iced coffee
- Six brew sizes from single cup to full carafe
Cons
- Brewing operation is manual and requires active user involvement.
This coffee maker is ideal for households that enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, including iced coffee and lattes. It’s a great option for those who like to brew larger quantities for sharing.
8. De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine – Compact Cold
Best for: Compact espresso machine with built-in grinder and wand.
The De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo features a built-in conical burr grinder with 8 settings, delivering precise, consistent doses for single or double espresso and cold brew drinks. Its 1550-watt Italian pump ensures optimal extraction pressure.
This semi-automatic espresso machine includes a commercial-style steam wand for expertly crafted micro-foam, suitable for latte art. Cold Extraction Technology is integrated for delightful cold brew creations, all powered by a 120-volt system.
Pros
- Integrated 8-setting burr grinder
- Commercial-style steam wand for micro-foam
- Cold Extraction Technology for cold brew
- 15 Bar Italian pump for consistent pressure
Cons
- Requires manual tamping and grind adjustment for optimal results.
This machine is perfect for aspiring baristas who want to master espresso and milk steaming at home. It’s ideal for users who appreciate the hands-on approach to creating specialty coffee drinks.
9. Philips 5500 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, LatteGo Milk System,
Best for: Fully automatic espresso machine with 20 drink presets.
With 1500 watts of power and 15 bars of pressure, this fully automatic espresso machine grinds, tamps, and brews up to 20 different drinks, including espresso, coffee, lattes, and cappuccinos. The LatteGo milk system tops drinks with silky smooth milk.
Customize strength, volume, and milk preferences on the intuitive color display, saving up to 4 user profiles. This machine accepts both ground coffee and whole beans, featuring a metal filter and a 230-volt power source for rapid heating.
Pros
- 20 drink presets for extensive variety
- LatteGo system for effortless milk frothing
- Save up to 4 personalized user profiles
- Intuitive color touchscreen interface
Cons
- Operates on 230 volts, requiring specific electrical setup in some regions.
This machine is perfect for households that enjoy a wide variety of coffee drinks with minimal effort. It’s ideal for users who want one-touch convenience and personalized brewing.
10. Philips 3300 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk
Best for: Automatic espresso machine with 6 presets and LatteGo.
This 1500-watt fully automatic espresso machine delivers 6 presets, including espresso, coffee, iced coffee, cappuccino, and latte macchiato, with 15 bars of pressure. The LatteGo milk system tops your coffee creations with smooth, creamy foam.
Easily adjust strength, volume, and milk level via the intuitive full-color display, ensuring your coffee is always perfect. It automatically grinds and tamps whole beans, featuring AquaClean technology for guided descaling and a removable brew group for easy maintenance.
Pros
- 6 one-touch drink presets
- LatteGo milk system for creamy foam
- Adjustable strength, volume, and milk level
- AquaClean filter for machine longevity
Cons
- Only brews from whole beans, not pre-ground coffee.
This machine is ideal for users who seek daily convenience and consistently delicious espresso-based drinks. It’s perfect for households that appreciate automated brewing and easy milk frothing.
Espresso Quality: The True Divider
The defining characteristic separating truly capable best coffee espresso maker combo units from mere pretenders is not the number of brew styles or the inclusion of a frother, but the relentless pursuit of proper espresso extraction. This means machines like the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, with its integrated grinder and focus on the 4 keys formula, offer a fundamental advantage over units that simplify espresso into a single button press. They acknowledge that achieving that silky crema and rich flavor profile hinges on nuanced control over grind size, dose, and pressure – elements that simpler systems, like those prominently featuring Barista Plus Technology such as the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, often gloss over in favor of broader appeal.
The core issue lies in understanding that while a machine might produce a shot that looks like espresso, its quality is dictated by the underlying mechanics. The De’Longhi COM530M All-In-One Combination Coffee and Espresso Machine, for instance, explicitly warns about grind coarseness and tamping as vital factors for adequate pressure, highlighting a hands-on approach that many users may not expect or desire. This is a stark contrast to fully automatic machines like the Philips 5500 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk System, which prioritize convenience and a vast array of presets over the intrinsic variables of espresso brewing.
When evaluating these dual-purpose machines, the most significant trade-off is the depth of espresso capability versus coffee brewing versatility. Brands like Ninja often excel at offering a wide spectrum of coffee options, from single-serve K-Cups on the Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker to robust carafe brews on the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker. However, when it comes to their espresso capabilities, the precision that differentiates a true third-wave café experience – as aspired to by machines like the De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine – Compact Cold with its built-in burr grinder and 8 grind settings – is typically sacrificed for ease of use.
Ultimately, the user who prioritizes authentic espresso shots will gravitate towards machines like the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, which is engineered from the ground up for that specific task, accepting a steeper learning curve. Conversely, those who seek a convenient way to make both passable espresso and a variety of coffee drinks will find numerous options, like the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, & appealing, but they should temper expectations regarding the espresso’s complexity.
How to Choose the Best Coffee Espresso Maker Combo
Brewing versatility
For espresso, prioritize machines offering dual-shot or even quad-shot capabilities, typically indicated by portafilter size of 54-58mm. These confirm robust brewing pressure for true espresso. For drip coffee, a minimum 8-cup capacity fulfills most household needs, aiming for carafes around 1.2 liters.
When it comes to frothing, a manual steam wand offers superior texture control for experienced users, producing microfoam. Choose the manual steam wand for control and a larger drip coffee capacity for shared beverages.
Spacesaving design
When counter space is critical, look for units with a footprint under 30cm wide and 40cm deep. A water reservoir between 1.5 and 2 liters is optimal for reducing refill frequency without excessive bulk. Bean hoppers around 200-300 grams strike a balance between capacity and machine size for integrated grinders.
Select compact models with moderate water tanks to maximize efficiency in smaller kitchens; these units deliver convenience without dominating your workspace.
Ease of use cleaning
Aim for the simplest cleaning routine: a removable drip tray is essential for quick spills, and dedicated, easily accessible portafilters simplify puck removal. Programmable settings for brew strength and time offer convenience but ensure manual overrides are intuitive. Glass carafes are easy to see and clean but lose heat; thermal carafes maintain temperature longer.
Opt for straightforward controls and a thermal carafe to ensure effortless daily operation and enjoyable hot coffee.
Specialty features
Integrated grinders are a significant convenience, so look for burr grinders, not blade, for consistent particle size. For milk frothing, choose between an automated frother that dispenses perfectly textured milk, or a manual wand for customizability. A hot water dispenser is a valuable addition for Americanos or tea.
Select the integrated burr grinder and automated milk frother for the ultimate convenience for busy mornings; these automate complex steps with precision.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you prioritize speed and versatility for single servings and don’t mind pod compatibility, look for models with rapid brewing and multiple single-serve size options.
- If you want to craft a variety of coffeehouse drinks at home with true espresso capability, seek out machines with built-in grinders, precise temperature control, and pressure systems for crema.
- If you enjoy experimenting with different brew styles and have limited counter space, consider units that offer multiple coffee types (drip, specialty) and espresso options in a compact design.
- If you desire a high degree of automation for various espresso-based drinks with minimal effort, opt for fully automatic machines with numerous built-in presets and integrated milk frothing systems.
Quick Best Coffee Espresso Maker Combo Buying Checklist
- Brew Strength Control: Look for options to adjust coffee intensity for personalized taste.
- Espresso Portafilter Size: Ensure compatibility with standard single and double shot baskets.
- Water Reservoir Capacity: Consider how many cups you can brew before refilling.
- Milk Frothing Capability: Decide between manual steam wands or automatic frothers for lattes and cappuccinos.
- Ease of Cleaning: Check for removable parts like drip trays and brew baskets.
- Included Accessories: Verify if tampers, scoops, or extra filters are provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Defines A Coffee And Espresso Maker Combo?
A coffee and espresso maker combo integrates both drip coffee brewing and espresso extraction capabilities into a single appliance. This allows users to enjoy a wide variety of hot beverages, from a simple cup of joe to a rich espresso-based drink, without needing two separate machines.
How Do I Clean My Combo Coffee And Espresso Machine?
Cleaning typically involves descaling the water system regularly, washing removable parts like the drip tray and carafe with soap and water, and wiping down the exterior. For espresso components, backflushing with a cleaning agent and cleaning the portafilter are crucial for maintaining performance.
What Is The Best Type Of Milk Frother For A Combo Machine?
The best milk frother depends on your preference; steam wands offer control for experienced users, creating microfoam ideal for latte art. Automatic frothers are simpler, providing convenient frothed milk at the touch of a button for those prioritizing ease.
Can A Combo Unit Make Both Strong Coffee And Good Espresso?
Yes, a good combo unit can produce both quality drip coffee and satisfying espresso shots. Effective machines utilize different brewing pressures and temperatures for each function, ensuring optimal extraction for both coffee grounds and finely ground espresso beans.
How Much Counter Space Does A Combo Coffee And Espresso Maker Need?
Counter space requirements vary significantly by model, ranging from compact units designed for small kitchens to larger, feature-rich appliances. It’s essential to check the product’s dimensions and compare them with your available counter space before purchasing.
Final Words
Investing in the best coffee espresso maker combo streamlines your morning routine and expands your beverage horizons. Enjoying both flavorful drip coffee and rich espresso drinks from one appliance offers unparalleled convenience. Elevate your home cafe experience and start brewing your perfect cup today.