The best coffee espresso maker combo is for those who crave versatility without sacrificing countertop space, delivering both rich espresso and delicious drip coffee in one sleek unit. When selecting one, consider the brewing methods, user interface, and cleaning ease, as a mismatch can lead to disappointing beverages and wasted efficiency. Opting for a model that doesn’t align with your daily routine or skill level can compromise both the quality of your affectionate morning cup and the longevity of the appliance.
With numerous options available, finding the perfect fit requires understanding key differences. This selection of top-rated coffee and espresso maker combo units will help you brew like a pro at home.
For a versatile best coffee espresso maker combo that handles both espresso and drip brewing, the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 offers café-quality espresso for lattes and cappuccinos alongside drip coffee. If built-in grinding and precise temperature control are priorities for specialty coffee at home, the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is a strong contender.
Best Coffee Espresso Maker Combos, Compared
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, & Best for: Home baristas upgrade | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso Best for: Espresso plus coffee | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew™ Pro Specialty Coffee Best for: Versatile coffee brewing | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel Best for: All-in-one espresso | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Ninja Luxe™ Café Pro designed by David Beckham, Espresso Machine, Best for: Premium home café | Check Price |
How We Picked
To determine the best coffee espresso maker combo, we prioritized real-world performance and durability. We assessed build quality and unique features, examining performance against claims like ultra-flavorful espresso and faster brewing. Machines lacking robust construction or dedicated espresso capabilities were ruled out.
Standout features like integrated grinders and versatile brewing styles were highly valued. For the ultimate home barista experience, we focused on machines offering consistent, high-quality results, ensuring long-term satisfaction and excellent value.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Brew Strength vs. Espresso Pressure
When choosing a combo machine, understand that the pressure listed for espresso (often measured in bars, like the 19-bar system in the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System) is crucial for extracting a true espresso shot with crema. This is distinct from the brew strength options (Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty Brew) found on drip coffee makers like the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker. Don’t confuse a rich drip coffee setting with the extraction power needed for authentic espresso.
Machine Size for Your Countertop
Espresso and drip coffee makers vary significantly in footprint. Before purchasing, measure your available counter space. While a machine like the Breville Barista Express offers an integrated grinder and powerful features, it’s larger than compact options such as the Ninja Luxe™ Café Mini, which is designed for smaller kitchens.
Consider how much room you have for both the unit itself and any accessories you’ll need to access regularly.
1. Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, &
Best for: Espresso and drip coffee fans with minimal effort.
A 1650-watt motor powers the Ninja Luxe Café Premier, enabling its three distinct brewing functions: espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew, so you can craft everything from a quick latte to an entire pot of coffee without switching machines.
This 3-in-1 unit grinds whole beans and offers two espresso styles (double or quad shot), three drip coffee styles (classic, rich, over ice), and two cold brew styles, consolidating multiple appliances into a footprint that fits standard countertops.
Pros
- Three distinct brew functions in one unit
- Accommodates whole beans or ground coffee
- Multiple styles for espresso, drip, and cold brew
- Auto shut-off for energy saving
Cons
- Dishwasher safe parts are limited to specific components, requiring manual cleaning for others.
For those seeking versatility without sacrificing counter space, this machine delivers. It’s ideal for households with diverse coffee preferences, from espresso aficionados to drip coffee lovers.
2. Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso
Best for: Capsule espresso and ground coffee users seeking crema.
The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker boasts a 19-bar pressure system that extracts rich flavor and silky crema from your favorite espresso capsules or ground coffee, allowing for truly café-style drinks at home without a dedicated espresso machine.
With a 1550-watt heating element, this semi-automatic machine brews single-serve espresso in three sizes (Espresso: 1.35 oz, Lungo: 3.75 oz, Over Ice: 1 oz) or full coffee grounds, offering flexibility for morning routines or afternoon pick-me-ups.
Pros
- 19-bar pressure for rich espresso and crema
- Built-in fold-away frother for milk drinks
- Multiple brew sizes for espresso and coffee
- Accepts both capsules and coffee grounds
Cons
- Requires specific Nespresso Original compatible pods for capsule brewing.
This machine is perfect for anyone who enjoys both the convenience of espresso capsules and the option of brewing with ground coffee. It provides a satisfying espresso experience with the added ability to make coffeehouse-style beverages.
3. Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew™ Pro Specialty Coffee
Best for: Busy individuals needing fast single-serve or carafe coffee.
A 1550-watt heating element ensures the Ninja DualBrew Pro brews a coffee pod faster than competitive models, making it ideal for busy mornings where speed and flavor are paramount.
This fully automatic machine features 13 brew sizes, offering 5 for grounds (Sm, XL Cup, Travel, XL Travel Mug), 4 for carafe (¼, ½, ¾, Full Carafe), and 4 for traditional pods (6-12oz), providing unparalleled customizability for any coffee need.
Pros
- Faster single-serve pod brewing speed
- 13 distinct brew size options
- Accommodates both K-Cups and coffee grounds
- Programmable settings for convenience
Cons
- Milk frother requires manual operation and cleaning.
For those who frequently brew single cups or need a quick carafe for the office or family, this machine is a prime choice. Its dual functionality with pods and grounds offers maximum brewing flexibility.
4. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
Best for: Espresso purists seeking bean-to-cup control.
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL features an integrated precision conical burr grinder that delivers the ideal amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter, ensuring optimal flavor extraction from whole beans.
With a 1600-watt heating element and manual operation, this machine provides precise control over grind size and dose for consistent espresso. It includes a 54mm stainless steel portafilter and delivers 9 bars of pressure for authentic results.
Pros
- Integrated conical burr grinder for fresh beans
- Precise dose control for consistent espresso
- Manual operation for ultimate control
- Built-in thermocoil heating system
Cons
- Requires manual tamping and operation, offering less automation than other models.
This machine is best for the dedicated home barista who enjoys the hands-on process of crafting espresso. It offers direct control over every step, from bean grinding to extraction for a truly personalized coffee experience.
5. Ninja Luxe™ Café Pro designed by David Beckham, Espresso Machine,
Best for: Design-conscious individuals wanting luxury espresso.
Limited edition and designed by David Beckham, the Ninja Luxe Café Pro features bead-blasted matte black stainless steel with ebony wood accents, offering a refined aesthetic to complement its versatile 3-in-1 brewing capabilities.
This 1650-watt machine transforms whole beans into espresso, filter coffee, and cold brew, featuring an integrated conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings and an easy-to-use, mess-free lever for tamping.
Pros
- Limited-edition designer aesthetic
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- 3-in-1 brewing: espresso, filter coffee, cold brew
- Mess-free integrated tamper
Cons
- Automatic shut-off feature, while a safety measure, may require reactivation if left inactive.
Ideal for discerning users who appreciate both superior coffee and elevated design, this machine brings a touch of luxury to the kitchen. It’s for those who want premium espresso and coffee with an integrated grinder and a beautiful finish.
6. Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker | Includes 10-Cup Carafe, Fold-Away Frother,
Best for: Specialty coffee lovers for lattes and iced drinks.
With four distinct brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty Brew—the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker allows you to create a super-rich concentrate perfect for delicious coffeehouse-style drinks like lattes and macchiatos.
This 1550-watt drip coffee machine offers six brew sizes, from a single cup to a full 10-cup carafe, ensuring you can brew exactly the amount needed. Its fold-away frother is perfect for adding milk foam to your specialty beverages.
Pros
- Specialty Brew setting for rich concentrate
- Brew over ice for flavorful iced coffee
- Six versatile brew sizes
- Fold-away milk frother included
Cons
- Manual operation means users must select brew size and style each time.
This machine is perfect for those who love to experiment with coffeehouse drinks at home, especially lattes and iced beverages. It offers the flexibility to brew a single cup or a full carafe for entertaining.
7. Ninja Luxe™ Café Mini | Espresso Machine & Drip Coffee
Best for: Space-conscious users needing espresso and drip coffee.
The Ninja Luxe Café Mini, with its compact design, fits easily into any kitchen while delivering barista-style espresso and hot or iced drip coffee, proving that small machines can offer significant versatility.
This 1650-watt, semi-automatic machine provides 2-in-1 brewing versatility, offering bold espresso for cappuccinos and lattes, alongside classic, rich, or over-ice drip coffee options. It utilizes Barista Assist Technology for consistent results.
Pros
- Compact size for small kitchens
- 2-in-1 espresso and drip coffee brewing
- Barista Assist Technology for consistency
- Accommodates whole beans for fresh grinding
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation requires user intervention for brewing steps.
Ideal for apartment dwellers or those with limited counter space, this mini café delivers on both espresso and drip coffee needs. It’s a great option for individuals or couples who enjoy a variety of coffee drinks.
8. De’Longhi COM530M All-In-One Combination Coffee and Espresso Machine, 47 ounces
Best for: All-around home brewers seeking drip and espresso.
The De’Longhi COM530M All-In-One Combination Coffee and Espresso Machine offers a 47-ounce water reservoir, allowing you to brew multiple cups of drip coffee or several espressos consecutively without frequent refills.
This fully automatic 1500-watt machine handles both ground coffee and pods, with a built-in milk frother for creating cappuccinos and lattes. It supports various brewing preferences, from morning coffee to authentic espressos.
Pros
- 47-ounce water reservoir capacity
- Accommodates both ground coffee and pods
- Integrated milk frother for milk-based drinks
- Programmable settings offer convenience
Cons
- Brewing can be affected by grind size, coffee amount, and tamping pressure, requiring user adjustment.
This versatile machine is designed for users who want to enjoy both drip coffee and espresso from a single appliance. It’s a practical choice for households with diverse beverage preferences.
9. De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine with Auto
Best for: Convenience seekers for multiple one-touch espresso drinks.
The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo offers 7 one-touch recipes, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte macchiato, all prepared with a 1250-watt motor and an integrated grinder that provides 13 grind settings for optimal bean preparation.
This fully automatic espresso machine uses a dual heating system and a 15-bar pump to deliver consistent results. It features a touchscreen interface for easy selection and customization of your favorite beverages.
Pros
- 7 one-touch drink recipes
- Integrated grinder with 13 grind settings
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
- Automatic frothing system for milk drinks
Cons
- Requires specific whole beans as input, not compatible with ground coffee for main brewing.
This machine is ideal for those who want to easily prepare a variety of popular espresso-based drinks with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy individuals or families who enjoy café-style beverages daily.
10. PHILIPS 5500 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, LatteGo Milk System,
Best for: Busy individuals wanting one-touch tailored coffee.
With 20 presets and a LatteGo milk system, the PHILIPS 5500 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine grinds, tamps, and brews at the push of a button, allowing you to save up to 4 personalized drink profiles on its intuitive color display.
This 1500-watt espresso machine operates automatically to produce hot drinks like espresso, coffee, lattes, and cappuccinos, or iced coffee. Its 15-bar pump ensures optimal extraction for a rich and flavorful cup.
Pros
- 20 one-touch drink presets
- LatteGo system for easy milk frothing
- Save up to 4 personalized user profiles
- Intuitive color touchscreen display
Cons
- Requires ground or whole bean coffee; no pod compatibility.
This machine is perfect for busy professionals or households that value convenience and customization. It simplifies the process of making complex coffee drinks with its one-touch operation and personalized settings.
Espresso Pressure vs. Coffee Volume Dictates Your Use Case
The fundamental difference that separates the pack in the best coffee espresso maker combo category isn’t about a particular frothing wand or a sleek, limited-edition design like the Ninja Luxe™ Café Pro designed by David Beckham, but rather the intended breadth of beverages and the underlying brewing science. Specifically, it boils down to whether you prioritize robust espresso extraction, typically demanding 19 bars of pressure as seen in models like the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, or a higher volume of drip coffee suitable for multiple servings.
Machines like the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL and certain De’Longhi units lean heavily into the espresso side, often integrating grinders and offering nuanced controls that speak to the pursuit of that perfect shot. These are for the home barista who understands that true espresso requires precise grind size, tamping consistency, and sustained pressure – elements a machine like the De’Longhi COM530M, with its explicit notes on brewing adequacy, is designed to facilitate. The sophisticated extraction required for a rich crema is paramount here, and compromising on the pressure and grind mechanism fundamentally alters the output.
Conversely, devices such as the Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew™ Pro Specialty Coffee and the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker highlight versatility for larger coffee quantities and simpler, faster single-serve options, sometimes compatible with K-Cups. While some Ninja models, like the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine, Drip Coffee, & aim to bridge this gap by offering both espresso and drip functions, the quality of the espresso is inherently a compromise against machines solely dedicated to it. The lower pressure brewing methods suitable for drip coffee are simply not designed to produce café-quality espresso; they bake in a different expectation of flavor and texture.
When evaluating a best coffee espresso maker combo, the user’s primary goal dictates the viable options. If your morning routine centers on a single, potent espresso shot to kickstart your day, or if you frequently craft milk-based espresso drinks, then the higher bar pressure and integrated grinding capabilities of machines like the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL or the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System are non-negotiable. Sacrificing on these core espresso-making elements for the sake of having a drip coffee option can lead to a disappointing experience on both fronts.
Ultimately, the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine with Auto, with its array of one-touch recipes and super-automatic functionality, is best suited for the user who desires convenience and variety across espresso-based drinks without the deep dive into manual espresso craft.
What to Look For in a Coffee Espresso Maker Combo
Brewing method versatility
When choosing a coffee espresso maker combo based on brewing method versatility, consider your daily routine. For households needing to brew multiple cups of drip coffee, look for models offering a drip capacity of at least 10-12 cups. If espresso is your primary focus, confirm the machine produces standard espresso shot volumes of 1-2 ounces per shot.
For ultimate convenience, select a unit that accepts popular pod systems if that’s your preference. If you often brew just one cup, ensure a singleserve option is integral to the design.
For broadest capability, opt for a combo that handles both large drip batches and consistent espresso pulls.
Water reservoir size
The water reservoir size directly impacts convenience; choose based on your household’s coffee consumption. For single users or very light drinkers, a minimum capacity of 30-40 ounces is sufficient. Families or busy offices should target reservoirs above 60 ounces to minimize refilling frequency.
A removable tank is a significant advantage for easy cleaning and refilling under a tap. Integrated tanks, while often larger, can be cumbersome to manage.
Prioritize a removable tank for at least 50 ounces if you want the best balance of capacity and ease of use.
Grinder functionality
For the freshest flavor and ultimate control, an integrated grinder is key. Seek out units with a burr grinder, specifically a conical burr grinder, for superior grind consistency; avoid blade grinders which produce uneven particle sizes. A good grinder will offer at least 10-15 distinct grind settings, from coarse for drip to fine for espresso.
Ensure the hopper capacity is adequate for your needs, ideally 8 ounces or more, so you don’t have to refill it after every brew. Buy a combo with a conical burr grinder and ample settings for consistent, high-quality grounds.
Milk frothing capabilities
Milk frothing capabilities can transform your coffee experience into café-style drinks. For true control over foam texture and density, a manual steam wand is essential, allowing you to practice and perfect microfoam. However, if ease and speed are paramount, opt for an automatic wand or a built-in carafe system that dispenses perfectly frothed milk.
Look for wands that produce a strong, consistent stream of steam for dense, glossy microfoam. For the best all-around milk frothing experience, select a machine with a powerful, manual steam wand.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you want the simplest way to make both espresso drinks and a full pot of coffee, look for a machine with distinct brewing heads for each, offering straightforward operation for both.
- If you’re passionate about espresso and want to control every step, choose a machine with an integrated grinder and manual (or semi-automatic) espresso controls.
- If you prioritize speed and convenience for single servings of coffee and occasionally want espresso, opt for a compact machine that accepts pre-packaged pods for coffee and has a simple espresso function.
- If you desire a wide variety of coffee and espresso drinks with minimal effort, seek out a super-automatic machine that offers multiple one-touch recipes.
Quick Best Coffee Espresso Maker Combo Buying Checklist
- Drip Coffee Capacity: Ensure it meets your daily brewing needs, from single cups to full pots.
- Espresso Shot Output: Check for single or double shot capabilities and brewing pressure.
- Water Tank Size: A larger tank means fewer refills during busy mornings.
- Milk Frothing System: Evaluate if a steam wand or automatic frother suits your preference.
- Built-in Grinder: Consider integrated grinders for the freshest possible coffee and espresso.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for removable parts and simple descaling processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Primary Advantage Of A Coffee Espresso Maker Combo?
The primary advantage of a coffee espresso maker combo is its dual functionality, offering both drip coffee and espresso capabilities in a single appliance. This convenience saves counter space and provides versatility for various coffee preferences.
How Do I Choose The Right Water Reservoir Size For A Combo Machine?
Choosing the right water reservoir size depends on your household’s coffee consumption. For individuals or couples, a smaller reservoir might suffice, while larger families or those who entertain frequently will benefit from a larger capacity to brew more without constant refilling.
Is A Built-In Grinder Essential For A Coffee Espresso Maker Combo?
A built-in grinder is not essential but highly recommended for the best flavor, as it grinds beans immediately before brewing. This ensures maximum freshness and aroma for both your coffee and espresso shots, significantly enhancing the taste.
What Should I Consider Regarding Milk Frothing Capabilities?
For milk-based espresso drinks, consider the frothing mechanism. A manual steam wand offers more control for experienced users, while automatic frothers provide convenience and consistent results for beginners. Evaluate the texture and temperature of the froth produced.
Can A Coffee Espresso Maker Combo Produce Authentic Espresso?
Yes, many coffee espresso maker combos are designed to produce authentic espresso by utilizing sufficient pressure and temperature. Look for machines that specify brewing pressure (measured in bars) to ensure they can extract a proper espresso shot with crema.
Final Words
Investing in the best coffee espresso maker combo enhances your daily routine by offering unparalleled beverage versatility. Enjoying rich espresso and smooth drip coffee from one streamlined appliance simplifies your mornings and elevates your coffee experience. Make the switch today and unlock a world of coffee possibilities right at home.
