Best Portable Espresso Maker – Reviews And Buying Guide [UPDATED 2023]
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Our recommended Best Portable Espresso Maker is the WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker, Bundled with Protective Case!
You could believe that to make a good shot of espresso, you need to build up a lot of pressure, and in that case, you’d be right. However, were you aware that it is now possible to make excellent espresso using a portable gadget, which will save you both time and money while you are on the go?
We are all aware that shopping online can give one the impression of being in a high-pressure position. It is not always easy to tell which models are of high quality and which will have issues not long after they have been purchased.
Because we want you to be able to buy with complete confidence, we have assembled these reviews of the top portable espresso machines released throughout the year. We have also included a buyers’ guide that is intended to assist you in finding the model that is perfect for you, regardless of whether you are a newbie or want to get the finest product currently available on the market.
Our List Of The Best Portable Espresso Makers (2023 Updated)
1. WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker – Editor’s Choice
Fans of espresso, which are constantly on the go, will find the WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker an excellent alternative. The Picopresso can generate creamy shots, have complex tastes, and have beautiful scents, all because of its capacity to employ a superb grind of coffee.
The Picopresso is the most space-efficient and well-suited for professional use of all of the mini espresso machines on our list. Because of its compact size, it is an excellent option for travelers who want cafe-quality espresso but are concerned about how much room it will take up in their carry-on luggage.
The naked portafilter included with the Picopresso is the primary feature that sets it apart from other portable espresso machines. Customers can observe outstanding creamy espresso pouring directly from a standard stainless steel filter basket during brewing. This results in a more engaging experience for the user.
In addition, the Picopresso was developed with dependability in mind. It is constructed out of metals and other hardy elements, so you can be confident that it will survive even the roughest of journeys. It would be great for a vacation to the campground or for touring!
Pros
- Compact and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go
- Easy to use, with a simple manual pumping action to extract the espresso
- It can be used with a variety of different types of coffee beans and grinds
- It comes with a protective carrying case to keep it safe when not in use
- It can be used to make both single and double espresso shots
Cons
- It may require more effort to use than an electric espresso machine
- The espresso shots may not be as hot as those made with an electric machine
- It may not be suitable for those who prefer a larger volume of espresso at once, as it is designed for single or double shots only
- The pump action may be complex for some users, particularly those with hand or wrist impairments
2. WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker – Runner Up
A manual espresso maker is an absolute must for anybody who enjoys drinking espresso on the go. The Wacaco Minipresso Portable Espresso Maker is another alternative that comes highly recommended. This compact device can brew coffee houses using Nespresso Original capsules or fresh coffee grounds. In addition, it is easy to use and simple to put away after use. It is a wonderful friend while traveling.
To use the Minipresso, you must place capsules compatible with the machine into the output head and then fill the water tank with hot water. Release the piston from its travel position, then push the plunger a few times to build up pressure and produce flavorful espresso with a lot of crema. Because this brewing method does not involve power, it is an excellent and expensive option for use during activities that take place outside.
Additionally, suppose you wish to enjoy your espresso for a more extended period, up to 100 milliliters. In that case, you may purchase the Minipresso Tank+ or the Minipresso Case as independent accessories (to make a double espresso or more). There isn’t a location on the planet where you can’t find a decent cup of espresso.
Pros
- Minimalist and light
- Simple in operation
- Fast and simple cleaning
- Fast
Cons
- Limited potential until improved
3. CERA+ Portable Mini Espresso Machine – Best Selling
The CERA+ Portable Mini Espresso Machine is an ideal coffee maker for traveling due to its compact size, low weight, and portability. The fact that it weighs only 1.4 pounds and has a height of 8 inches makes it the most space-efficient electric espresso machine on the market with a heating feature. It is convenient to take your preferred coffee capsules or ground coffee quality with you wherever you go because it comes with a carrying case that protects its contents. In addition to being utilized at home and in the workplace, it is also quite helpful for camping trips, hiking, or picnics.
The CERA+ portable travel espresso maker has a powerful ceramic heating tech that brews espresso coffee cup in 3 to 4 minutes. It has a 20 bar pressure, which keeps the capsule or ground coffee warm and perfectly extracted and ensures the espresso has a rich crema and aroma. With the 80ml stainless steel water tank, you can brew 1 to 2 ounces of espresso at a time, and it is compatible with NS capsules.
The CERA+’s built-in 7500mAh rechargeable batteries are one of its most notable features, allowing it to brew over a hundred cups of coffee hot when used with hot water and enough cold clean water to make four to five cups of warm espresso (50 ml each). The tiny french press coffee maker is charged with the included 10W/15W adaptor; a full charge takes 3.5 hours. You may also use the included 12V vehicle charger to power it on the road.
The CERA+ is easy to operate, with three ways to brew: cold brew, warm brew with hot boiling water, and warm brew with cold water. It has a boil-dry safety protection feature that detects if there is no water inside and a heat-insulated design that ensures no heat damage occurs. The intelligent LED indicator shows the heat for the water’s battery level and temperature status.
Overall, the CERA+ Portable Mini Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact, portable filter coffee maker that is easy to use and can brew high-quality espresso on the go. The protection features and rechargeable battery make it a reliable and convenient choice.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go
- Heats up and brews espresso quickly, with a ceramic heating tech that brews coffee in 3 to 4 minutes
- It has a 20 bar pressure, ensuring the espresso has a rich crema and aroma
- Compatible with NS capsules and ground coffee
Cons
- It may not be as durable as more significant, more expensive espresso machines.
- The volume of the water tank may not be sufficient for those who want to brew more than 1 to 2 ounces of espresso at a time.
- The battery may not last as long as some users would like, depending on the frequency of use.
Moreover, it would help if you also read our expert buyer’s guide about the best small 5-cup coffee maker.
What Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Portable Espresso Maker?
When looking for a portable espresso machine, there are a few things you need to bear in mind that are essential considerations.
1. Size
First, you need to think about how big the gadget is. There are portable espresso machines that are both very small and compact, as well as more significant and cumbersome models. Please pick a size that suits your needs while allowing you to move it around quickly.
2. Ease of operation
Consider the next step, which is how simple it is to operate the tool. While there are portable espresso makers that are extremely easy to use and uncomplicated, there are also portable espresso makers that take a bit more practice to produce the ideal shot. Before you make a purchase, you should think about the level of your expertise.
3. Pump style
The three most common types are electric, manual, and lever action pumps. Electric pumps are the most convenient to use, but you will need either an electrical outlet or a battery that is fully charged to operate them. Hand pumps are the most portable kind since they are the smallest and can be put over a cup. However, hand pumps demand the most significant effort because they are the most inefficient. The lever action pump falls somewhere in the center since it is simple to use yet necessitates some physical exertion on the user’s part.
It would help if you also read our article about the best coffee grinder for cold brew.
4. Weight
The device’s weight is another essential aspect that must be considered. While some portable espresso makers are incredibly lightweight and convenient to carry, others are significantly heavier. Please pick a size and weight that will allow you to move it about without difficulty. Even while the lightest portable espresso machines could be the easiest to carry, it’s possible that they don’t make the most potent shots.
5. Construction excellence
The construction quality of your portable espresso equipment is essential, regardless of whether you want to use it frequently or preserve it in perfect condition for use on special occasions. Either way, you will need to ensure it can withstand the elements. Some portable espresso machines are constructed with lower-quality materials that are more prone to breaking. In contrast, others are constructed with higher-quality materials that can absorb increased wear and tear. Before making a purchase, it is essential to consider how you will utilize the gadget.
Moreover, we have also written an expert buying guide on the best hot and cold brew coffee makers in 2023.
6. Price
Finally, give some thought to your financial plan. Portable espresso machines can be purchased anywhere from approximately $30 to more than $200. Pick a product that satisfies both your requirements and your financial constraints.
7. Extras
Many portable espresso makers on the market come with extra features, such as pressure gauges or cups that can be collapsed. These characteristics are sometimes helpful but are not necessarily required for success.
It would help if you also read our expert buying guide for buying the best double-walled coffee mug.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
1. How much space does a portable coffee maker take up?
The most compact portable espresso machines are roughly the same size as a standard-sized water bottle and are designed to be easily carried in a handbag or pocket. The more significant variants are comparable in size to a standard-sized travel mug.
2. What pump configuration works best for a portable espresso maker?
It is impossible to provide a conclusive response to this topic since individuals have varying tastes and interests. Many favor the convenience of an electric pump, while others choose the manual hand pump or lever-action models. When selecting a pump style, take into account your requirements and preferences.
3. What kind of cleaning routine should I follow for my portable espresso maker?
Most portable espresso machines can be cleaned by hand using soap and warm water. After cleaning it, you must ensure it is scorched to prevent rusting or other damage. If your product has any pieces that may be removed, you will likely wish to disassemble those parts and clean them separately. Using filtered or bottled water with your portable espresso machine is also suggested, as hard water buildup can create blockages or damage. You can avoid this by using water that has been filtered or bottled.
4. What exactly is coffee that tastes like espresso?
The coffee beverage known as espresso is created by passing a little amount of hot water through finely-ground coffee beans while applying pressure. Espresso is characterized by a denser consistency, a more complex taste profile, and a greater caffeine concentration than traditional espresso-like coffee brewing process. As a result, it is typically reserved for consumption on special occasions or to provide an additional burst of energy throughout the day. Because of this, portable espresso machines are excellent choices for folks who are constantly on the move.
5. When making espresso, is the use of coffee beans necessary?
No, you do not have to use espresso beans to prepare espresso. Even though pre-ground espresso is widely accessible at most grocery shops and online sellers, most people grind their delicious coffee beans because they believe it produces the freshest and best-tasting results. Your choice will determine whether you want a light or a dark roast. Therefore, either one is perfectly acceptable.
6. What is the amount of caffeine that is in espresso?
The amount of caffeine included in espresso might differ based on the beans used, the grind, and the method used to make it. However, depending on the brand, a shot of espresso with 2 ounces contains anywhere from 60 to 80 milligrams of caffeine on average. Because this contains more than twice as much caffeine as a standard cup of drip coffee, you should keep this in mind if you are sensitive to the effects of caffeine or if you want to have many shots of coffee during the day.
7. Is Picopresso better than Nanopresso?
In most respects, though, the new Picopresso outperforms its predecessor, the Nanopresso. The basket is a conventional style that is not pressured and can hold up to 18 grams of ground coffee. It indicates that you can produce a superior double shot of 50 milliliters. Although it is roughly the same size as a cup, this espresso machine is powerful.
Moreover, it would help if you also read our article about the best storage container for coffee that you can buy in 2023.
The Final Verdict
After reading our expert buyer’s guide for a portable espresso maker, we hope you will understand what to consider in a portable espresso maker.
Additionally, we have also reviewed the best portable espresso maker and reviewed them to save you additional time.
We have also written an expert buyer’s guide for buying the best-iced coffee maker in 2023, which might be something you are also looking for.
The Best Portable Espresso Maker
The best portable espresso maker is the WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker, and there are several reasons for it.
First, it has better charging timing. Second, its design sets it apart from others. And lastly, its price.
Our #1 Best Portable Espresso Maker
Our number one portable espresso maker is the WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker because of its durable, built quality, and compact design.
As a runner-up, we also recommend the WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker because of its quickness and easy-to-clean body.