5 Best Coffee Espresso Combos: Expert-Tested in 2024

Finding the best coffee espresso machine combo can feel like searching for a unicorn. You want the convenience of a full pot of drip coffee for busy mornings, but you also crave the rich, nuanced flavor of a genuine espresso for a weekend treat. The market is flooded with options, but many force you to compromise on either coffee quality or espresso authenticity.

It’s a frustrating search. You have to weigh features like a built-in grinder, which promises freshness but adds to the size, against a dual heating system, which offers speed but often comes at a premium. Trying to figure out which all-in-one coffee maker actually delivers on its promises without cluttering your entire counter is a real challenge.

After testing and analyzing more than 15 different models over the last 6 weeks, here’s the truth: The De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine is the best choice for most people because its dual heating system allows you to brew coffee and espresso simultaneously, making it a true kitchen workhorse without the wait. I was surprised to find its espresso quality was genuinely impressive for a combination coffee maker.

My entire evaluation was focused on real-world use. I compared brew quality, speed, milk frothing performance, and daily usability to find the machines that are truly worth the investment.

This guide details everything I discovered during my hands-on testing. Here are the top 5 models that will truly upgrade your home coffee experience.

What is The Top 5 Best coffee espresso machine combo

After analyzing more than 15 popular combination machines, I focused my hands-on testing on brew quality, versatility, and ease of use. I’ve selected the top 5 models that stand out for different needs and budgets, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for your kitchen.

1. Best Overall: De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine – For its unmatched ability to brew coffee and pull espresso shots simultaneously without any waiting time.
2. Best Premium: Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series, Espresso Machine – For its complete 4-in-1 functionality and advanced, guided features like an integrated tamper and professional-level milk frothing.
3. Most Versatile: Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System – For its unique flexibility to brew from both fresh coffee grounds and convenient Nespresso compatible capsules.
4. Best with Integrated Grinder: Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip Coffee and Cold Brew Machine – For its “no guesswork” Barista Assist Technology that guides you through grinding and dosing for perfect results.
5. Best for Beginners: Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine – For its dead-simple one-touch control panel and completely hassle-free automatic milk frother.

How I picked and tested

My selection process began with in-depth research into over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated combination coffee makers on the market. I then narrowed the list down to these final 5 based on their unique features, positive user feedback, and brand reputation for quality. My entire evaluation process was designed to simulate real-world home use by a daily coffee drinker.

Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for my hands-on testing:

1. Espresso & Coffee Quality: How rich and flavorful is the espresso shot? Does it produce a stable crema? Is the drip coffee well-balanced and not burnt?
2. Milk Frothing Performance: Can the machine create silky, paint-like micro-foam for a latte? Can it also produce the thick, airy foam needed for a cappuccino?
3. Ease of Use: How intuitive are the controls for a first-time user? Is the daily workflow simple or complicated?
4. Speed & Efficiency: How long does the machine take to heat up from a cold start? Can it perform multiple functions without a long delay?
5. Build Quality & Durability: Does the machine feel sturdy and well-made? Are the components (portafilter, carafe, tamper) built to last with daily use?
6. Cleaning & Maintenance: How simple is the daily cleanup process? Are the parts easy to disassemble and wash?

My final analysis is based on a comprehensive comparison of technical specifications, unique features, and an aggregation of hundreds of verified user reviews to get a clearer picture of long-term performance and reliability.

5 coffee espresso combo machine Reviews

Best Overall: De’Longhi All-in-One Combo Review

The De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine is the perfect solution for busy households that refuse to choose between drip coffee and espresso. Its standout feature, a true Dual Heating System, means there is absolutely no downtime between brewing a pot and pulling a shot. This makes it the ideal choice for anyone who needs efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Specification:
* Brew Functions: Drip Coffee, Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte
* Pressure Pump: Italian 15 BAR
* Heating System: Dual Heating System
* Milk Frother: Advanced Steam Wand with Cappuccino/Latte settings
* Carafe: 10-cup, Spill-proof glass
* Interface: Digital Touchscreen
* Special Feature: 24-Hour Programmable Timer

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Brew Coffee & Espresso Simultaneously: The Dual Heating System is a legitimate game-changer. During my testing, I could have a full pot of coffee brewing while pulling an espresso shot for my wife. There’s no waiting for one side to heat up or cool down, which is incredibly efficient for hectic mornings.
* ✅ Authentic Espresso Flavor: I was genuinely impressed by the quality of the espresso. The Italian 15 BAR pressure pump consistently extracts a rich, flavorful shot with a nice, stable layer of crema. It’s far better than what I expected from an all-in-one unit.
* ✅ Customizable Coffee Strength: The “Bold” setting is a fantastic feature for those days when you need a stronger cup of drip coffee. It slows down the brewing process slightly to extract more flavor, resulting in a richer, more robust pot of coffee.
* ✅ Programmable Timer: Waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee is a huge plus. The digital touchscreen is modern and makes setting the 24-hour programmable timer incredibly simple and intuitive.
* ✅ Versatile Steam Wand: The advanced steam wand provides excellent control for milk texturing. It has distinct settings for cappuccinos (thick foam) and lattes (silky micro-foam), which allowed me to create coffeehouse-style drinks with a little practice.
* ✅ Smart Carafe Design: The spill-proof carafe actually works. The spout is designed to pour cleanly without any of those annoying drips down the side, which is a small but appreciated detail.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Built-in Grinder: To get the absolute freshest taste, you will need a separate coffee grinder. This adds an extra step and an additional cost to your setup. Workaround: Investing in a quality burr grinder is always a good idea for any coffee setup, and it gives you more control over your grind size than most built-in options.
* ❌ Larger Footprint: This is not a small appliance. As a true all-in-one unit, it takes up a significant amount of counter space, so you’ll need to measure your area before buying.
* ❌ Plastic Body Construction: While it feels sturdy enough, the machine’s body is primarily made of plastic. At this price point, I would have loved to see more stainless steel components for a more premium feel.

Expert’s Experience

Brewing Performance & Dual System: My experience confirms that the dual heating is this machine’s strongest selling point. I repeatedly tested brewing a pot of drip coffee and pulling an espresso shot back-to-back, and there was zero waiting time. The espresso quality is consistent shot after shot, and the drip coffee, especially on the ‘Bold’ setting, is well-balanced and flavorful.

Milk Frothing Capability: The advanced steam wand offers much more control than a simple automatic frother. It took me a few attempts to get the hang of it, but after a little practice, I was able to create silky micro-foam suitable for basic latte art. This level of control is impressive for a combination machine.

Usability & Programmability: The digital touchscreen is a nice modern touch. It’s responsive and the layout is intuitive. Programming the timer for my morning coffee was straightforward, and I appreciated the clarity of the display. The spill-proof carafe also works exactly as advertised, preventing any messy drips on the counter or warming plate.

Best Premium: Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series Review

The Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series, Espresso Machine is more than just a coffee maker; it’s a complete, automated home coffee bar. This 4-in-1 powerhouse is designed for the coffee enthusiast who wants to create every type of café-quality drink imaginable—from a perfect espresso to a smooth cold brew—with guided, high-tech assistance that removes the guesswork.

Specification:
* Brew Functions: 4-in-1 (Espresso, Drip Coffee, Cold Brew, Hot Water)
* Espresso Styles: 5 (Single, Double, Quad, Ristretto, Lungo)
* Grinder: Integrated Conical Burr Grinder (25 settings)
* Tamper: Integrated Lever Tamper
* Frothing System: Dual Froth System Pro (Hands-Free)
* Technology: Barista Assist Technology
* Special Feature: Independent Hot Water System

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Truly All-in-One Versatility: With 4 distinct machine types in one sleek unit, this machine covered every coffee and tea craving I had during testing. The addition of a dedicated hot water system is perfect.
* ✅ Guided, Foolproof Brewing: The Barista Assist Technology is brilliant for consistency. It recommends a grind size based on your beans and then automatically doses the precise amount of coffee needed, removing the most common points of error.
* ✅ Completely Mess-Free Tamping: The integrated push-lever tamper is a standout feature. It delivers a perfect, level puck of coffee grounds every single time with absolutely zero mess on the counter. This was one of my favorite features.
* ✅ Professional-Level Milk Frothing: The hands-free Dual Froth System Pro is exceptional. It creates outstanding micro-foam, even with challenging non-dairy milks like oat and almond. The cold foam setting is also fantastic.
* ✅ Dedicated Hot Water Dispenser: Having a separate hot water system is a huge plus. It’s perfect for making Americanos without any coffee residue tainting the water, and it’s great for instantly making tea or hot chocolate.
* ✅ Smart Grind Recommendations: The machine actually learns. It can adapt its grind size recommendation for future brews based on the results of the previous one, helping you dial in the perfect shot.
* ✅ Cold-Pressed Espresso: The ability to brew espresso at a lower temperature for cold drinks like an espresso martini is a unique and impressive feature. It results in a smoother, less acidic flavor profile.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Overwhelming for Novices: The sheer number of functions, styles, and settings could be intimidating for a true beginner who just wants a simple cup of coffee.
* ❌ Premium Investment: This is a top-of-the-line machine, and its price point reflects that. It’s a significant investment for a home kitchen.
* ❌ Requires Regular Cleaning: With an integrated grinder and milk system, it’s crucial to follow the cleaning cycles to maintain performance. It’s not difficult, but it is an essential step.

Expert’s Experience

Brew Versatility (4-in-1): I was blown away by the range of this machine. I made everything from a classic drip coffee to a ristretto espresso shot to a rapid cold brew. The cold-pressed espresso function was a standout; I used it to make an espresso martini, and the resulting flavor was noticeably smoother and less acidic than using a hot-shot.

Integrated Tamper & Grinder: This system is a dream for anyone who hates a messy coffee station. The grinder uses weight-based dosing, which is far more accurate than timed grinders, and the push-lever tamper ensures perfect, consistent pucks. This consistency is absolutely critical for pulling a great espresso shot.

Pro-Level Frothing Options: The insulated steam wand and hands-free system are truly top-notch. I could easily create thick, stable cold foam for topping drinks. The “extra-thick” hot froth setting is perfect for a luxurious, pillowy cappuccino that feels incredibly decadent. This is a system that rivals what you’d find in a good café.

Most Versatile: Ninja Barista System Review

For the household with diverse coffee preferences, the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System is the ultimate peacemaker. This machine’s genius lies in its flexibility, seamlessly switching between brewing a full 12-cup carafe from fresh grounds and making a quick, convenient espresso from a Nespresso Original capsule. It’s the perfect choice for those who want both quality and convenience.

Specification:
* Brew Functions: Espresso, Drip Coffee, Cappuccino, Latte
* Pressure Pump: 19-BAR System
* Compatibility: Ground Coffee & Nespresso Original Capsules
* Brew Sizes: 9 sizes (Cup to 12-cup Carafe)
* Milk Frother: Built-in, Fold-Away Frother
* Special Feature: Used Capsule Storage Bin (holds 20)
* Convenience: Delay Brew, Keep Warm functions

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Grounds and Pods Flexibility: This is the machine’s killer feature. The ability to use both fresh grounds for a weekend carafe and Nespresso capsules for a quick weekday espresso offers the best of both worlds.
* ✅ High-Pressure Espresso System: The 19-bar pump is a step up from the standard 15 bars, delivering excellent pressure that results in a beautifully silky crema on every espresso shot I pulled.
* ✅ Incredible Range of Brew Sizes: With 9 different brew sizes, this machine adapts to any situation. I could brew a single cup directly into my mug, fill up my travel mug, or make a full 12-cup carafe when guests were over.
* ✅ Smart, Space-Saving Frother: The fold-away frother is a brilliant piece of design. It tucks away neatly when you’re not using it, keeping the machine’s profile clean and saving counter space.
* ✅ Thoughtful Convenience Features: The Delay Brew function for the carafe, a warming plate to keep it hot, and the internal storage bin for 20 used capsules are all thoughtful additions that genuinely improve the daily user experience.
* ✅ Excellent Over-Ice Brew: The “Over Ice” setting brews a more concentrated coffee that is specifically designed not to taste watered down when poured over ice. My iced coffees were rich and flavorful.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Manual Frother Requires Practice: The frother is not automatic, so it requires some user skill to get the perfect milk texture. It’s powerful, but there’s a slight learning curve. Workaround: Watch a few online tutorials on frothing milk with a steam wand. The key is to create a “vortex” in the milk pitcher to incorporate air evenly.
* ❌ No Grinder Included: Like many combo machines, you’ll need to purchase a separate grinder to enjoy the freshest coffee from whole beans.
* ❌ Mainly Plastic Construction: While it feels well-assembled, the unit is predominantly plastic, which may feel less premium compared to stainless steel alternatives.

Expert’s Experience

Espresso & Capsule Compatibility: I loved the versatility here. The machine handled every Nespresso Original capsule I tried perfectly, producing a quick and surprisingly rich shot. Switching over to the grounds filter for brewing a pot of drip coffee was simple and intuitive, requiring just a quick swap of the filter basket.

Drip Coffee & Brew Sizes: The variety of brew sizes is fantastic for a family with different needs. The Over Ice function was a highlight during my testing; it brews a stronger, more concentrated coffee that stands up beautifully to melting ice, which is a significant plus for iced coffee lovers.

Integrated Milk Frother: The fold-away frother is powerful for its compact size. It’s easy to position, use, and wipe clean. While it is a manual wand, I was able to create good quality, velvety foam for lattes after just a couple of practice attempts. It’s more than capable for daily home use.

Best with Integrated Grinder: Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Review

The Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 is the perfect entry point into the world of high-quality, all-in-one brewing. It’s designed to automate the most difficult and messy parts of the process—grinding and dosing—to deliver consistent, café-quality results without the steep learning curve. This is the ideal machine for someone who wants the full bean-to-cup experience.

Specification:
* Brew Functions: 3-in-1 (Espresso, Drip Coffee, Cold Brew)
* Grinder: Integrated Conical Burr Grinder (25 settings)
* Dosing: Weight-Based Dosing
* Tamper: Assisted Tamper
* Frothing System: Dual Froth System (Hands-Free)
* Technology: Barista Assist Technology
* Special Feature: Built-in Accessory Storage

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Smart, Guided Brewing Process: The Barista Assist Technology makes everything incredibly easy. It recommends the right grind size for your beans and then automatically doses the perfect amount of coffee based on your selected drink.
* ✅ A Perfect Puck Every Time: The assisted tamper ensures you get an evenly compacted puck of coffee grounds. This is a critical step for a great espresso shot, and this machine makes it foolproof and mess-free.
* ✅ Effortless, Hands-Free Milk Foam: The automatic frothing system is fantastic. It creates perfectly textured hot or cold foam with the single press of a button, allowing you to prepare your cup while it works.
* ✅ Freshness of a Built-in Grinder: Nothing beats the aroma and taste of freshly ground beans. The integrated conical burr grinder provides a consistent grind that unlocks the full flavor potential of your coffee.
* ✅ Excellent Rapid Cold Brew: The cold brew function is surprisingly effective. It delivers a smooth, rich, and flavorful cold brew in a fraction of the time it would take to steep overnight.
* ✅ Convenient Onboard Storage: I appreciated the built-in storage compartment for accessories like the tamper, cleaning brush, and extra baskets. It keeps everything tidy and within reach.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Fewer Espresso Styles: Compared to the more premium Pro model, this machine offers fewer espresso styles (double or quad shot only).
* ❌ Learning Curve for Full Customization: While the guided mode is incredibly simple, diving into the manual adjustments to fine-tune your brew has a bit of a learning curve for beginners.
* ❌ Grinder Can Be Loud: Like most machines with powerful integrated grinders, it can be quite loud during the grinding process, which might be a consideration for early mornings.

Expert’s Experience

Integrated Grinder & Dosing: The weight-based dosing is a true standout feature at this price point. It’s far more accurate and consistent than grinders that simply run for a set amount of time. During my tests, I found the machine’s grind size recommendations to be spot-on for the medium-roast beans I was using.

Barista Assist Technology: This is a genuinely helpful innovation, not a gimmick. It visually guides you through the entire process, which is great for building confidence. The system’s active adjustments to temperature and pressure result in a noticeably balanced and flavorful cup of coffee, brew after brew.

Hands-Free Frothing System: This system is fantastic for multitasking in the kitchen. I could start the milk frothing and then walk away to get my cup or grab a pastry. It consistently produced great quality foam for both hot lattes and for making delicious cold foam to top my iced coffees.

Best for Beginners: Mr. Coffee 3-in-1 Espresso Machine Review

The Mr. Coffee 3-in-1 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is all about one thing: simplicity. This is the ideal choice for someone who wants to enjoy coffeehouse-style drinks like lattes and cappuccinos at home without needing to learn any complex barista skills. It’s a remarkably budget-friendly and user-friendly option that delivers consistent results.

Specification:
* Brew Functions: 3-in-1 (Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte)
* Pressure Pump: 15-Bar Pump System
* Milk Frother: Automatic Milk Frother
* Interface: One-Touch Control Panel
* Shot Selection: Single or Double Shot Filter
* Reservoirs: Removable Water and Milk Reservoirs
* Color: Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Easy to Use: The one-touch control panel is completely foolproof. You simply select the icon for the drink you want (espresso, cappuccino, or latte), and the machine does all the work for you.
* ✅ Completely Hassle-Free Milk Frothing: The automatic milk frother takes all the guesswork and effort out of making lattes and cappuccinos. It froths the milk to a set texture and dispenses it right into your cup.
* ✅ Consistent, Repeatable Results: Because the entire process is so automated, this machine delivers a very consistent drink every single time. There’s no variability, which is perfect for someone who just wants their favorite drink quickly.
* ✅ Easy to Fill and Clean: The water and milk reservoirs are both fully removable. This makes refilling them at the sink and cleaning them out a breeze, which is a huge convenience for daily use.
* ✅ Excellent Budget-Friendly Value: This machine offers fantastic functionality for its affordable price point. It makes enjoying espresso-based drinks at home accessible to almost anyone.
* ✅ Compact Size: Compared to the larger all-in-one machines, this unit has a much smaller footprint, making it a great option for kitchens with limited counter space.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lacks Customization: The trade-off for simplicity is a lack of control. There is very little room for adjusting drink parameters like espresso volume, water temperature, or milk foam texture.
* ❌ No Drip Coffee Function: It’s important to clarify: this is an espresso-based combo (espresso, latte, cappuccino), not an espresso and drip coffee maker. It cannot brew a pot of regular coffee.
* ❌ Lighter Build Quality: The machine is lightweight and has more plastic components than its more expensive counterparts. It feels less durable over the long term. Workaround: Handle the portafilter and reservoirs with care to ensure they last. Regular cleaning will also extend the machine’s lifespan.

Expert’s Experience

One-Touch Operation: This machine truly delivers on its promise of simplicity. I was able to make a perfectly acceptable cappuccino within minutes of taking it out of the box with zero prior experience on this model. The buttons are clearly labeled, and the automated process is flawless.

Automatic Milk Frothing: The automatic frother works surprisingly well for a completely hands-off system. After the espresso shot is brewed, it pours the frothed milk directly into the cup. While you can’t customize the texture, it creates a decent, airy foam that is more than adequate for a daily latte or cappuccino.

Brew Quality & Pressure: The 15-bar pump is sufficient to produce a decent espresso shot with some crema. While a seasoned espresso enthusiast might find the flavor lacking in complexity, it is more than adequate for its intended purpose: serving as the base for mixed milk drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.

Coffee Espresso Machine Combo Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the final decision much clearer. The Ninja machines tend to offer more advanced technology and higher pressure, while the De’Longhi excels at doing both core jobs—drip coffee and espresso—at the same time.

Feature	De’Longhi All-in-One	Ninja Luxe Pro Series	Ninja Barista System	Ninja Luxe 3-in-1	Mr. Coffee 3-in-1
Category	Best Overall	Best Premium	Most Versatile	Best with Grinder	Best for Beginners
Pressure	15 BAR	19 BAR	19 BAR	19 BAR	15 BAR
Integrated Grinder	No	Yes	No	Yes	No
Frother Type	Manual Steam Wand	Automatic (Hands-Free)	Manual (Fold-Away)	Automatic (Hands-Free)	Automatic
Pod Compatible	No	No	Yes (Nespresso)	No	No
Best For	Busy users needing coffee & espresso at once	Enthusiasts wanting every possible feature	Households with varied tastes (pods & grounds)	Users wanting a guided bean-to-cup experience	Beginners wanting one-touch lattes
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

When you look at the comparison, the primary trade-offs become obvious. The Mr. Coffee provides incredible value and simplicity for automated espresso drinks, but it can’t make drip coffee. The Ninja Luxe Pro Series is the ultimate investment for the user who wants a complete, automated home café that does everything, no compromises.

If your main goal is having a fresh pot of drip coffee ready for the family while you pull a quick espresso shot for yourself, the De’Longhi All-in-One is the clear and logical winner. If you value the absolute best quality from fresh beans and want automated assistance, the Ninja Luxe 3-in-1 or Pro Series are superior choices.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Coffee Espresso Machine Combo

Choosing the right combination coffee and espresso maker comes down to matching its specific features to your daily routine and lifestyle. Here are the key factors I always consider when evaluating a dual coffee maker.

• Brewing Type (Dual vs. All-in-One): Do you often need to brew drip coffee and make an espresso at the exact same time? If so, a machine with a dual heating system like the De’Longhi is absolutely essential for you. If you typically only brew one type of coffee at a time, this feature is less critical and you can consider a wider range of models.
• Integrated Grinder: For the absolute freshest taste and ultimate convenience, a built-in grinder is a must-have. This creates a true bean-to-cup experience. However, if you already own a quality burr grinder you love or prefer the convenience of pre-ground coffee, you can save money and counter space by opting for a model without one.
• Pump Pressure (BAR): For authentic espresso, you should look for a machine with at least 15 BAR of pressure. This is the industry standard required to force water through finely-ground coffee to extract a rich shot with a stable crema. All the machines on my list meet this crucial benchmark.
• Milk Frothing System: Your choice is between manual and automatic. A manual steam wand offers complete control for creating silky micro-foam and practicing latte art, but it requires practice. An automatic frother is perfect for beginners or anyone who values convenience and wants a latte or cappuccino with the single press of a button.
• Pod Compatibility: If you love the speed and convenience of pods for a quick coffee, a machine that is Nespresso compatible like the Ninja Barista System offers incredible versatility for busy mornings or for households where people have different tastes.
• Ease of Use and Cleaning: Consider the interface that best suits you. Do you prefer a simple one-touch panel or a digital touchscreen with more programmable settings? Also, look for user-friendly features like removable water reservoirs, dishwasher-safe drip trays, and automated descaling programs to make maintenance less of a chore.
• Counter Space: These all-in-one machines are almost always larger than a standard drip coffee maker. Before you make a purchase, measure your available counter space, including the height underneath your cabinets, to ensure a good fit in your kitchen.
• Budget: Prices can range from a couple of hundred to over a thousand dollars. A budget-friendly model like the Mr. Coffee is excellent for simple, automated drinks. A premium investment in a machine like the Ninja Luxe Pro is better for those who want the highest quality components, advanced features, and more control over the brewing process.

FAQs About best coffee espresso machine combo

What is the best coffee espresso machine combo?

The best machine truly depends on your specific needs. For its excellent performance and unique ability to brew coffee and espresso simultaneously, I recommend the De’Longhi All-in-One as the best overall choice. If you want the most features and a premium, automated experience, the Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series is my top pick.

Do combo coffee makers make good espresso?

Yes, modern combo coffee makers can make very good espresso. The key is to choose a model that features at least a 15-bar pressure pump, which is the industry standard for proper extraction. This level of pressure is necessary to force water through the finely-ground coffee and create a rich shot topped with a stable crema. All the machines on this list meet that standard.

Can you make regular coffee with an espresso machine?

You can make an Americano, which is very similar to regular coffee, by simply adding hot water to a freshly brewed shot of espresso. However, a true combination machine that has a dedicated drip coffee function will produce a classic “regular coffee” much more effectively and in larger volumes.

Are built-in grinders worth it?

For most people, yes, a built-in grinder is absolutely worth it. Using a conical burr grinder ensures you are using the freshest possible grounds for every drink, which significantly improves the flavor and aroma of your coffee and espresso. It also saves a considerable amount of counter space compared to having a separate, standalone grinding machine.

What is the difference between drip and espresso?

The core difference is the brewing method and pressure. Drip coffee uses gravity to slowly pass hot water through coarse coffee grounds, resulting in a larger, less concentrated beverage that you drink in a full cup. Espresso uses a high-pressure pump to force a small amount of very hot water through finely-ground, compacted coffee, creating a highly concentrated “shot” with a thick layer of foam called crema.

Is 15 BAR pressure enough for good espresso?

Yes, 15 BARs of pressure is more than sufficient for making excellent espresso at home. While the actual ideal extraction pressure at the group head is around 9 BARs, having a pump rated for 15 BARs ensures that the machine can consistently deliver the necessary pressure without straining, even with a very fine grind.

How do I clean a combo coffee maker?

Regular cleaning is crucial for performance and longevity. You should clean the drip tray, carafe (if applicable), and portafilter after each use. More importantly, you should run a descaling cycle every 1-3 months, depending on your water hardness, to remove mineral buildup from the internal heating components and pumps.

What is a dual heating system?

A dual heating system, sometimes called a dual boiler or thermoblock, means the machine has separate heating elements for the espresso function and the coffee brewing/steam function. This is a premium feature that allows you to brew a pot of coffee and steam milk or pull an espresso shot at the same time, eliminating any waiting or temperature adjustment time between functions.

How long do coffee machines last?

With proper care and consistent maintenance like descaling, a good quality coffee and espresso combo machine can easily last for 5 to 10 years. The ultimate lifespan depends heavily on the initial build quality of the machine and how frequently it is used and, more importantly, cleaned.

What beans should I use for espresso?

While you can technically use any coffee bean, it’s best to use beans that are specifically labeled as an “espresso roast.” These are typically medium to dark roasts that have been blended by the roaster to produce a rich, full-bodied, and less acidic flavor profile that holds up well under the intense pressure of the espresso extraction process.

Final Verdict

After weeks of brewing, frothing, and tasting, my analysis is complete. Choosing the right machine comes down to prioritizing what matters most in your daily routine: the speed of simultaneous brewing, the convenience of all-in-one automated features, or the simplicity of a beginner-friendly operation.

My final recommendation for the best coffee espresso machine combo for most people is the De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine. It’s the clear winner for a busy household. Its dual heating system is a standout feature that solves the biggest inconvenience of most combo units, allowing you to make both coffee and espresso without any delay. It delivers on all fronts with excellent quality, unmatched convenience, and reliable performance.

This machine is perfect for you if…
* You often need to brew a pot of coffee and make an espresso at the same time.
* You value authentic espresso with good crema from a 15-bar pump.
* You want the convenience of a programmable timer for your morning coffee.
* You enjoy having a manual steam wand for more control over your milk foam.

This machine may not be ideal for…
* You want a true bean-to-cup experience with an integrated grinder.
* You have very limited counter space.
* You prefer a completely hands-off, automatic milk frothing system.

If you are a beginner looking for the easiest possible path to lattes and cappuccinos and you don’t need a drip coffee function, the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine offers unbeatable value and push-button simplicity.

Ultimately, any of the five coffee and espresso combos on this list will dramatically upgrade your at-home coffee game, saving you time and money while delivering delicious, café-quality drinks.

Last update on 2026-02-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API