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5 Best Combo Coffee Espresso Makers: Tested for Home 2026
Trying to find the best combination coffee espresso maker can feel like a compromise, forcing you to choose between a great pot of coffee and a genuine shot of espresso. It’s a crowded market, and it’s tough to know which all-in-one machine actually delivers on both promises without cluttering your entire countertop.
You’re likely wondering if you can get rich, flavorful drip coffee for your morning routine and a true, high-pressure espresso for an afternoon latte from a single appliance. The key factors to consider are a dual heating system, a powerful 15 bar pressure pump for espresso, and an effective milk frother, but many machines fail to balance these features effectively.
After more than 45 days of hands-on testing and brewing dozens of drinks, here’s the truth: The De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M is the best choice for most people because its dual heating system allows you to brew coffee and espresso simultaneously, a feature that is a genuine time-saver and makes it a truly versatile coffee station machine.
I put five of the top-rated models through a rigorous side-by-side comparison, focusing on everything from brew quality and heat-up time to the cleanup process. I discovered that while some machines excel at convenience with features like a built-in grinder, others prioritize a premium build or a compact design.
This guide breaks down everything I learned during my testing. Here’s everything you need to know before you choose the perfect all-in-one coffee and espresso maker for your home.
5 Best Combination Coffee Espresso Makers Tested for Home Use
After analyzing the market for all-in-one machines, I focused my hands-on testing on models that successfully balance the convenience of drip coffee with the quality of authentic espresso. I narrowed a list of 15 popular combo coffee espresso machines down to these final five, each of which excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of coffee drinker.
- Best Overall: De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M – For its excellent balance of simultaneous brewing capability and user-friendly features.
- Best All-in-One with Grinder: Ninja Luxe Café ES601 – For integrating a conical burr grinder and cold brew functionality.
- Most Versatile System: Ninja Barista System CFN601 – For its ability to handle grounds, Nespresso capsules, and multiple brew sizes.
- Best Premium Build: Espressione Combination EM1040 – For its high-quality Swiss design and powerful Italian pump.
- Best Compact Option: CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine – For offering a 20-bar espresso system in a small, kitchen-friendly footprint.
How I Picked and Tested These Combo Machines
My selection process started with in-depth research of 15 of the most popular combination coffee machines on the market. I analyzed thousands of user reviews and cross-referenced professional critiques to identify the top contenders. From there, I selected these five machines for a comprehensive, hands-on review to see how they performed in a real-world kitchen environment.
My goal was to conduct a thorough side-by-side comparison to find out which machines were truly worth the investment. I used the same medium-roast coffee beans for both drip and espresso tests across all models to ensure a fair evaluation. Here are the core criteria I used for my testing:
- Espresso & Drip Coffee Quality: The most critical test. I assessed the richness and temperature of the drip coffee and the quality of the espresso, paying close attention to the crema, flavor extraction, and absence of bitterness.
- Milk Frothing Performance: I tested each machine’s ability to froth milk, evaluating the steam wand’s power and control. The goal was to see if it could produce silky microfoam for a latte just as easily as it could create the thick, airy foam needed for a cappuccino.
- Ease of Use & Cleanup: A great machine shouldn’t be a chore to use. I evaluated how intuitive the controls were, how easy it was to fill the water tank, and how simple the daily cleanup of the portafilter, drip tray, and carafe was.
- Heating Time & System: I timed how long each machine took to warm up and be ready to brew from a cold start. I also tested whether models with a dual heating system could truly brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously without a drop in performance.
- Build Quality & Design: I assessed the materials and construction of each machine, noting whether it felt durable enough for daily use. I also measured its footprint to see how much valuable counter space it occupied.
5 Best Combo Coffee and Espresso Maker Reviews
Here are my detailed reviews of the five best combination coffee and espresso makers I tested. I’ve broken down what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience using each machine to help you make an informed decision.
Best Overall: De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M Review
The De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M earns my top spot because it masterfully executes both of its core functions without making significant compromises. It’s a true dual-function coffee maker, and its dual heating system is a standout feature that adds a level of convenience often missing in all-in-one units, making it the best combination coffee maker for most households.
What I Liked
- ✅ Simultaneous Brewing: The Dual Heating System is the biggest advantage here. I could start a 10-cup pot of drip coffee and immediately turn my attention to pulling an espresso shot and frothing milk. This is a massive time-saver for busy mornings.
- ✅ Versatile Milk Frothing: The advanced steam wand is surprisingly capable, with separate settings for creating the creamy micro-foam for lattes or the thick, airy foam for cappuccinos. It provides a level of control that I appreciated.
- ✅ Programmable & Easy to Use: The digital touchscreen is bright and intuitive. I found programming the 24-hour timer to be incredibly simple, and waking up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is a fantastic perk.
- ✅ Rich and Flavorful Coffee: The 10-cup drip coffee, brewed with the “Bold” setting, was consistently smooth and rich. The 15-bar pressure pump produced authentic espresso with a decent layer of crema, perfect for daily drinks.
- ✅ Spill-Proof Carafe: A small but significant detail—the spill-proof carafe genuinely works. I experienced no drips or messes while pouring, which is more than I can say for many other glass carafes I’ve used.
- ✅ Simple Cleanup: Daily maintenance is straightforward. The water reservoir and drip tray are both removable and easy to rinse, and the filter basket is simple to clean out.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Soupy Espresso Puck: A common issue with pressurized portafilters, the used espresso grounds are often wet and messy. This means you have to rinse the basket out rather than knocking the puck neatly into a bin, which adds a small step to the cleanup process.
- ❌ Flimsy Included Tamper: The plastic scoop/tamper combination tool that comes with the machine feels cheap. It has some flex to it, which makes getting a consistently level and firm tamp on the coffee grounds difficult. Workaround: I highly recommend investing in a separate, inexpensive 51mm metal tamper for much better results.
My Expert Experience
Dual Brewing & Frothing Performance
During my weeks of testing, the standout feature remained the Dual Heating System. Being able to brew a pot of coffee for my wife while simultaneously making an espresso and latte for myself without any delay was a game-changer. There was no waiting for a boiler to switch functions or reheat. The espresso from the 15-bar pump was consistently good for an all-in-one machine, producing a respectable crema suitable for lattes and americanos. The advanced steam wand was also a pleasant surprise; the cappuccino setting injected more air for a stiffer foam, while the latte setting created a silkier texture, giving me great control over my milk-based drinks.
Design and Usability
The De’Longhi COM532M has a modern, sleek appearance that looks great on the counter without being overly large for a dual-purpose machine. The digital touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, making it simple to program the timer or select the bold brew function. While the body is primarily constructed of plastic, it feels solid and well-assembled for daily use. The front-loading water and coffee reservoirs for the drip side are also a thoughtful design touch, meaning I didn’t have to pull the machine out from under my cabinets to fill it.
Best All-in-One with Grinder: Ninja Luxe Café ES601 Review
The Ninja Luxe Café ES601 is more than just a coffee maker; it’s a complete coffee workstation. I found it to be the ultimate all-in-one solution for anyone who craves convenience without sacrificing quality. It combines a high-quality espresso machine, a versatile drip coffee maker, and a rapid cold brew function with an excellent built-in conical burr grinder.
What I Liked
- ✅ True 3-in-1 Functionality: This machine genuinely does it all. It makes true 19-bar espresso, drip coffee in six different sizes (from 6 to 18 oz.), and a smooth, rapid cold brew. It covers every possible coffee preference in one unit.
- ✅ Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: The built-in grinder with 25 settings is a massive advantage. It provides perfectly fresh and consistently ground coffee for every single drink, which dramatically improves the flavor compared to using pre-ground beans.
- ✅ Guided Brewing Experience: The “Barista Assist Technology” is fantastic for beginners and experts alike. The integrated scale provides weight-based dosing recommendations, taking all the guesswork out of getting the perfect amount of coffee for your chosen drink.
- ✅ Hands-Free Milk Frothing: The Dual Froth System is incredibly convenient. It automatically creates hot or cold microfoam with different texture presets. I just added milk, pushed a button, and got perfectly frothed milk every time.
- ✅ Smart and Organized Design: This machine is packed with thoughtful features. The assisted tamper ensures a perfect puck every time, and the built-in storage compartment for accessories keeps everything neat and tidy.
- ✅ Flavorful Cold Brew: The rapid cold brew function is unique and effective. It uses a lower temperature and pressure to produce a smooth, flavorful iced coffee in minutes, not hours.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ No Dedicated Hot Water Dispenser: A surprising omission for such a feature-rich machine is the lack of a plain hot water dispenser. This means making an Americano requires brewing an espresso and then adding hot water from another source, like a kettle.
- ❌ Premium Price Point: The advanced technology, integrated grinder, and 3-in-1 functionality come at a significant cost. This is a premium-priced machine that represents a considerable investment.
My Expert Experience
Integrated Grinder & Barista Assist
The conical burr grinder is the hero of the Ninja Luxe Café. It delivered a consistent grind every time, and the Barista Assist technology made the entire process foolproof. It told me exactly how much coffee to grind based on my drink selection, and the built-in scale confirmed the dose was perfect. This guided process ensures even a complete novice can make a great-tasting espresso or cup of coffee from day one. I also loved the unique design that allows you to brew up to an 18-ounce drip coffee using the portafilter, which felt innovative and worked surprisingly well.
Hands-Free Frothing & Cold Brew
For anyone who makes milk-based drinks regularly, the automated frothing is a game-changer. I tested it with both dairy and oat milk, and it delivered consistently textured hot and cold foam with the press of a button. It eliminates the learning curve of a manual steam wand. The addition of the cold brew function is what truly sets this combo machine apart from all others. Instead of waiting 12-24 hours, I could get a smooth, rich cold brew in about 15 minutes. It’s a fantastic feature for iced coffee lovers.
Most Versatile System: Ninja Barista System CFN601 Review
The Ninja Barista System CFN601 is the ultimate solution for a household with diverse coffee preferences. Its incredible versatility comes from its ability to brew using both fresh coffee grounds and Nespresso Original-style capsules. It combines a powerful 19-bar espresso system with a full-featured drip coffee maker, making it a true people-pleaser.
What I Liked
- ✅ Grounds and Capsule Versatility: This is the machine’s biggest strength. I could brew a full 12-cup carafe of drip coffee for guests and then immediately make a quick, convenient Nespresso shot for myself. It offers the best of both worlds.
- ✅ Powerful 19-Bar Pressure: The espresso system is no gimmick. The 19-bar pressure pump extracts a rich, flavorful shot with a silky crema, whether I was using my own grounds or a Nespresso capsule.
- ✅ Nine Different Brew Sizes: The flexibility is outstanding. It offers nine size options for ground coffee brewing, from a single cup to a full carafe, plus Espresso and Lungo options for the capsules. It can fill any cup or travel mug you own.
- ✅ Convenient Fold-Away Frother: The built-in frother is perfect for whipping up lattes and cappuccinos. When not in use, it tucks away neatly on the side of the machine to save space, which is a clever design.
- ✅ Smart User-Friendly Features: The machine is packed with conveniences, including a used capsule storage bin that holds up to 20 capsules, an adjustable cup tray for different mug heights, and programmable functions like Delay Brew.
- ✅ Great for Iced Coffee: The “Over Ice” brew style creates a more concentrated brew that doesn’t taste watered down when poured over a full cup of ice, which is a nice touch.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Bulky Footprint: Versatility comes at a cost to counter space. This is a large machine, and its wide design takes up a significant amount of real estate. You’ll need to measure your space carefully before buying.
- ❌ Frother, Not a True Steamer: The built-in frother is excellent for adding foam and is very fast, but it doesn’t use steam to heat and texture the milk like a traditional steam wand. This means less control over the final milk temperature and texture.
My Expert Experience
Brewing Versatility & Pod Compatibility
The ability to switch seamlessly between a full pot of drip coffee and a single-serve Nespresso capsule makes the Ninja Barista System incredibly adaptable. During my testing, I found the 19-bar pressure system produced high-quality capsule espresso, far superior to what you’d get from a typical pod-only machine. Having so many brew sizes at my fingertips was also a huge plus, allowing me to brew directly into a travel mug before heading out the door. The used capsule bin is another simple but brilliant feature that makes cleanup quick and easy.
Frother and Drink Customization
The fold-away frother is a master of convenience. While it doesn’t offer the nuanced control that a manual steam wand does for latte art, it’s incredibly fast and consistent for making a quick morning latte. It does a great job of creating a nice layer of foam with minimal effort. The different brew styles (Classic, Rich, Over Ice) add another layer of customization, allowing me to tailor the strength of my coffee to my exact preference each day.
Best Premium Build: Espressione Combination EM1040 Review
The Espressione Combination EM1040 is a machine designed for those who prioritize build quality and durability. With its Swiss design, powerful Italian pump, and robust stainless steel body, it feels like a serious piece of kitchen equipment. It’s a beautiful machine that looks and feels more premium than many of its plastic-bodied competitors.
What I Liked
- ✅ Robust and Stylish Design: The full stainless steel body and heavy die-cast aluminum portafilter give this machine a premium feel and a timeless look that would complement any kitchen. It feels built to last.
- ✅ Powerful Italian Pump: It features a 19-bar ULKA pump, a high-quality component made in Italy that is known for its power and reliability. It consistently delivers excellent pressure for rich espresso extraction.
- ✅ Simultaneous Brewing Capable: Just like the De’Longhi, this machine has the ability to brew drip coffee and pull an espresso shot at the same time, making it highly functional for busy households.
- ✅ Programmable Functions: The drip coffee side can be programmed up to 24 hours in advance, which is a great convenience feature for having coffee ready when you wake up.
- ✅ Heated Cup Warming Tray: The heating grid on top of the machine is a professional-style feature that keeps your espresso cups warm. This helps maintain the temperature of the espresso shot for a better-tasting drink.
- ✅ Removable Water Tank: The frontal removable water tank and drip tray make for easy refilling and cleaning without having to move the entire machine.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Reported Long-Term Durability Issues: Despite its premium initial feel, some user reports indicate that the espresso side of the machine can be prone to failure over time. This is a concern for a machine at this price point.
- ❌ Steep Learning Curve: While powerful, this machine requires some practice. Achieving the best espresso shot involves trial and error with your coffee grind size and tamping pressure to get it just right.
My Expert Experience
Pump Performance & Build Quality
From the moment I unboxed the Espressione EM1040, I could feel the difference in quality. The die-cast portafilter is heavy and locks into the group head securely. The powerful 19-bar ULKA pump produced a genuinely rich and aromatic espresso with a beautiful, thick layer of crema. The stainless steel construction not only looks fantastic but also makes the machine feel much more durable and stable on the counter compared to plastic alternatives. The ability to pull a shot while a full pot of coffee is brewing makes it a true workhorse.
Brewing & Frothing Controls
This machine offers a good mix of manual and programmable settings, giving you flexibility in your brewing routine. The manual steam wand is quite powerful and effective, though it does take some practice to master the art of texturing milk perfectly for latte art. I found that the drip coffee maker, which uses a cone-style filter, produced a very clean, bright, and flavorful cup of coffee that was enjoyable to drink on its own.
Best Compact Option: CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine Review
The CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine is the ideal choice for anyone with a small kitchen, a limited budget, or those who simply prioritize espresso over drip coffee. It manages to pack a surprisingly powerful 20-bar pressure pump into a very slim and compact footprint, making it a fantastic entry-level espresso machine.
What I Liked
- ✅ Extremely Compact Footprint: Its slim and lightweight design is its biggest selling point. It fits easily into tight spaces on a kitchen counter or can be stored away in a cabinet without any hassle.
- ✅ Powerful 20-Bar Pressure System: The high-pressure pump is impressive for a budget machine. It consistently extracted excellent flavor and produced a surprisingly thick, rich crema on every shot I pulled.
- ✅ Great for Beginners: With very simple controls and included pressurized filter baskets, it’s incredibly easy to start pulling decent espresso shots right out of the box without a steep learning curve.
- ✅ Excellent Value: This machine offers strong espresso performance at a very budget-friendly price point. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to start making real espresso at home without a large financial investment.
- ✅ Fast Heat-Up Time: The thermoblock heating system gets the machine ready to brew in under a minute, so there’s very little waiting around for your morning coffee.
- ✅ Stylish Stainless Steel Look: The stainless steel body gives it a sleek and modern appearance that looks much more expensive than it is.
What Could Be Improved
- ❌ Not a True Combo Machine: It’s important to clarify that this is primarily an espresso machine with a steam wand. It does not have a drip coffee function like the other machines on this list.
- ❌ Loud and Vibrates: The powerful pump can be quite loud during operation. I also noticed that it vibrates enough to cause lightweight cups to move around on the drip tray if you’re not careful.
- ❌ Requires a Cooling Period: After using the steam wand to froth milk, you must wait for the machine to cool down before you can pull another espresso shot. The machine has an overheating protection mode that prevents brewing if it’s too hot.
My Expert Experience
Espresso Extraction & Pressure
For its small size and affordable price, I was genuinely impressed with the quality of the espresso from the CASABREWS CM5418. The 20-bar pump is more than just a number on a spec sheet; it consistently produced shots with a thick, stable, and satisfying crema with no bitterness. It’s an excellent machine for anyone wanting to make real espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos at home without the complexity or cost of a higher-end machine.
Compact Design & Steam Wand
The small footprint is a huge advantage for anyone with limited counter space. It’s less than 6 inches wide, making it easy to tuck away. The steam wand is capable and can create creamy foam for lattes, though it requires a bit of practice to get the technique right, as with any manual wand. It’s a fantastic, powerful little machine that punches well above its weight class, delivering great espresso in a tiny package.
Combination Coffee & Espresso Maker Comparison Chart
This chart provides an at-a-glance look at the key specifications and features of the five machines I tested, helping you to easily compare them side-by-side.
| Feature | De’Longhi All-in-One | Ninja Luxe Café | Ninja Barista System | Espressione Combination | CASABREWS CM5418 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Best Overall | Best w/ Grinder | Most Versatile | Best Premium Build | Best Compact |
| Pump Pressure | 15 Bar | 19 Bar | 19 Bar | 19 Bar | 20 Bar |
| Grinder Included? | No | ✅ Yes (Conical Burr) | No | No | No |
| Milk Frother Type | Manual Steam Wand | Automatic System | Fold-Away Frother | Manual Steam Wand | Manual Steam Wand |
| Capsule Compatible? | No | No | ✅ Yes (Nespresso) | Yes (ESE Pods) | No |
| Best For | Users wanting balanced drip & espresso performance. | Users wanting an all-in-one station with a grinder. | Households with diverse needs (pods & grounds). | Users valuing build quality and durability. | Users with limited space seeking great espresso. |
| My Rating | 4.5/5 ⭐ | 4.5/5 ⭐ | 4.0/5 ⭐ | 4.0/5 ⭐ | 3.5/5 ⭐ |
Comparison Analysis:
This chart clearly illustrates the primary trade-offs you’ll make when choosing a machine. The De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M stands out for its balanced performance and the critical feature of simultaneous brewing, making it the best all-around choice.
If maximum convenience is your goal and you have the budget, the Ninja Luxe Café ES601 is an unmatched powerhouse with its integrated grinder and automated features. For pure versatility, the Ninja Barista System CFN601 is the winner, effortlessly handling both grounds and Nespresso capsules.
The Espressione Combination EM1040 appeals to those who appreciate a heavy-duty, stainless steel build, while the CASABREWS CM5418 is the perfect, budget-friendly entry point into the world of authentic espresso, provided you don’t need a drip coffee function.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Combination Coffee Espresso Maker
The “best” all-in-one coffee and espresso machine is highly subjective and depends entirely on your personal coffee habits, your kitchen’s counter space, and whether you prioritize convenience over manual control. This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider to help you match a machine to your specific needs.
- Pump Pressure (Bars): This is the most crucial factor for authentic espresso. Look for a machine with at least 15 bars of pressure. A pressure of 19 or 20 bars is even better for ensuring a rich crema and full flavor extraction. Machines with lower pressure often produce a coffee concentrate rather than a true espresso.
- Heating System (Dual vs. Single): A dual heating system, like the one found in the De’Longhi, is a massive convenience. It allows you to brew drip coffee and steam milk for an espresso drink simultaneously. Single boiler systems are more common and require a waiting period for the machine to heat up or cool down between functions.
- Built-In Grinder: A conical burr grinder, like the one on the Ninja Luxe, is a significant upgrade for flavor, freshness, and convenience. However, it also adds to the machine’s cost and complexity. If you already own a high-quality coffee grinder, you may not need this feature.
- Milk Frothing: Manual Wand vs. Automatic System: A manual steam wand (found on the De’Longhi, Espressione, and CASABREWS) offers you more control over milk texture, which is ideal for aspiring latte artists. An automatic system (Ninja Luxe) or a simple frother (Ninja Barista) provides unmatched convenience and consistency, especially for beginners.
- Footprint and Size: These all-in-one units can be quite large and take up a lot of counter space. Always measure your available space carefully before purchasing. If space is your primary concern, a slim, compact model like the CASABREWS is an excellent choice.
- Brewing Versatility (Grounds, Pods, Carafe): Consider your daily routine. Do you need a full 10 or 12-cup carafe for multiple people? Do you enjoy the speed and convenience of Nespresso capsules? The Ninja Barista System excels here by offering both ground and pod brewing.
- Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance: Look for models with easily removable water reservoirs, drip trays, and simple cleaning cycles. Because combo machines require you to maintain two different brewing systems, ease of cleaning is doubly important to prevent buildup and ensure longevity.
FAQs About Combination Coffee Espresso Makers
Are combination coffee makers worth it?
Yes, they are definitely worth it if you value counter space and convenience. A good combo machine can produce high-quality drip coffee and authentic espresso from a single appliance, saving you from the cost and clutter of buying two separate machines. However, for dedicated coffee purists, two separate high-end machines will often yield slightly better results for each respective brew method.
What is the difference between drip coffee and espresso?
Drip coffee is made by slowly pouring hot water over coffee grounds, relying on gravity, while espresso is made by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure. This high-pressure extraction (at least 9 bars) is what creates a more concentrated, flavorful shot with a signature layer of crema on top.
Do combination coffee makers grind beans?
Some premium models do, but most do not. A model like the Ninja Luxe Café ES601 features a fantastic built-in conical burr grinder. However, the majority of combination machines, including the De’Longhi COM532M and Espressione EM1040, do not have a grinder and require you to use pre-ground coffee or grind your beans separately.
How much pressure is enough for real espresso?
For authentic espresso, a machine needs to generate at least 9 bars of pressure at the group head where the coffee is brewed. Most quality home machines offer a pump rated for 15 to 20 bars to ensure they can consistently achieve the necessary pressure during extraction, which is what produces a rich shot with good crema.
Can you make a latte with a combo maker?
Yes, absolutely. All the true combo machines on this list come equipped with either a milk frother or a manual steam wand specifically for making lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based espresso drinks. The final quality and texture of the foam will vary between the automated systems and the manual wands.
How do I clean a combo coffee maker?
You must clean both the drip coffee and espresso sides regularly. For the drip side, wash the carafe and filter basket after each use. For the espresso side, purge and wipe the steam wand after every use, rinse the group head, and empty the drip tray daily. Both systems will also require periodic descaling with a cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove mineral buildup.
Can you use both sides of a combo machine at the same time?
This depends entirely on the machine’s heating system. Machines that have a Dual Heating System, like the De’Longhi COM532M and the Espressione EM1040, are specifically designed to brew coffee and pull espresso shots simultaneously. Machines with a single boiler require you to wait between these functions.
Which is better, a combo machine or two separate machines?
It’s a trade-off between performance, space, and cost. Two separate, high-quality machines will generally offer superior performance in their respective categories. However, a good combination machine saves a significant amount of counter space and can be much more budget-friendly than buying two separate premium units.
What kind of coffee should I use in a combo machine?
For the espresso side, you must use a fine, espresso-specific grind. If your machine has a grinder, use whole beans labeled as an “espresso roast.” For the drip coffee side of the machine, a standard medium grind will work best. Using the wrong grind size for either method will result in poor, under- or over-extracted coffee.
How long do combination coffee makers last?
With proper maintenance and regular descaling, a quality combination coffee maker should last for 5-10 years. Durability often varies by brand and build quality. Machines that feature more stainless steel components, like the Espressione, generally have a longer lifespan than all-plastic models.
My Final Verdict: Which Combo Machine Should You Buy?
After extensive testing, it’s clear that each of these five combination machines serves a different type of coffee drinker. The right choice for you depends entirely on whether your priority is a built-in grinder for ultimate freshness, capsule compatibility for convenience, or pure, balanced performance for both drip coffee and espresso.
Perfect for you if…
* You want the best all-around performance for both drip coffee and espresso.
* Your mornings are busy and the ability to brew both simultaneously is a key feature.
* You want user-friendly controls with useful features like a programmable timer.
* You appreciate a capable steam wand that gives you control over milk texture.
For most people looking for the best balance of features, performance, and value, my top recommendation is the De’Longhi All-in-One COM532M. It perfectly delivers on the promise of an all-in-one machine with its critical dual heating system, great-tasting results on both sides, and an intuitive design, all at a competitive price point.
Not ideal for…
* You want the convenience of a built-in grinder.
* You need compatibility with Nespresso capsules.
If you want a true, all-in-one coffee station and have the budget for it, I highly recommend the Ninja Luxe Café ES601. The integrated conical burr grinder, cold brew function, and automatic milk frothing are game-changing features that simplify the entire coffee-making process from start to finish.
Last update on 2026-02-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

