5 Best Handheld Espresso Makers: Expert Tested & Self-Heating

Finding the best handheld espresso maker can feel like a quest for the impossible: real, rich espresso without a bulky, expensive machine. You want that perfect shot of coffee on a camping trip, in your office, or simply to save counter space, but most portable options seem like a compromise.

The challenge? Navigating a world of devices that all claim to be the “best portable espresso machine.” It’s tough to know which ones actually generate enough pressure for a genuine crema, which are truly lightweight and durable for travel, and which are just glorified coffee-squirters.

After testing five top contenders over four weeks, here’s the truth: the WACACO Minipresso NS2 is the ultimate travel coffee gear, delivering an incredible 18 bars of pressure for true espresso on the go. Its hand-powered design means you never need to worry about batteries, making it a truly portable coffee solution.

I put these machines through a rigorous evaluation, focusing on pressure consistency, build quality, and overall shot flavor. What stood out most? The massive quality gap between true high-pressure manual devices and lower-pressure steam or electric models.

This guide breaks down everything I learned to help you choose the perfect compact or portable espresso maker for your needs. I’ll cover performance, durability, and value, ensuring you find the right device for a perfect shot, wherever you are.

The 5 Best Handheld & Compact Espresso Makers in 2026

I analyzed a wide range of devices marketed as “portable” or “compact” espresso solutions to find the best options for true travel and for small kitchens. My final list includes a true handheld champion and several excellent compact countertop models for those with limited space.

• Best Overall Handheld Espresso Maker: WACACO Minipresso NS2 – For true espresso on the go, anywhere.
• Best Compact Countertop Machine: Gevi Commercial Espresso Maker – For barista-level pressure in a small kitchen.
• Best for Authentic Cappuccinos: De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine – For those who prioritize milk texturing.
• Best Budget-Friendly Pick: KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine – An affordable entry into home espresso.
• Best Stovetop Moka Pot Set: Primula Stovetop Espresso Maker – For classic Italian-style coffee at home.

How I Picked and Tested These Espresso Makers

My selection philosophy was simple: find the best compact and handheld coffee makers that produce a quality espresso shot. I didn’t want weak, watery coffee; I wanted a genuine espresso experience. My hands-on experience started with researching over 15 popular models, focusing on those praised for portability, pressure, and ease of use. I then selected the top 5 to undergo four weeks of field testing. This list represents the best options across different categories, from true hand-pump devices to compact countertop powerhouses.

Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for this expert review:

1. Portability & Footprint: How easy is it to pack, carry, and store? I evaluated the weight, dimensions, and whether a device was truly suitable for travel versus just being a small countertop machine. I took them to the office, on a day trip, and used them in my small apartment kitchen.
2. Pressure & Extraction Quality: This was my primary focus. Does it generate enough pressure (ideally 9 bars or more) to produce genuine espresso with a rich, stable crema? I pulled multiple shots from each machine, assessing the consistency of the pressure and extraction.
3. Ease of Use & Cleaning: How intuitive is the brewing process? I looked at the learning curve, assembly time, and, critically, how simple it is to clean up afterward—a huge factor for a travel espresso maker.
4. Build Quality & Durability: I inspected all the materials, from the stainless steel components to the BPA-free plastics. I evaluated the overall construction to gauge its potential for long-term durability, both for rugged travel and daily home use.
5. Coffee Type Compatibility: Can it use Nespresso capsules, ground coffee, or both? This is a crucial factor for user convenience and flexibility. I tested each machine with its intended coffee type.
6. Milk Frothing Capability: For the all-in-one machines, I tested the power and effectiveness of the included steam wand or frother. I made multiple lattes and cappuccinos to see if they could produce silky microfoam or just bubbly milk.

5 Best Handheld & Compact Espresso Maker Reviews (2026)

Here are my detailed reviews of the five best compact and handheld espresso makers I tested. Each one excels in a different area, so I’ve broken down exactly what I liked, what could be improved, and my expert experience with each.

Best Overall Handheld Espresso Maker: WACACO Minipresso NS2 Review

The WACACO Minipresso NS2 is, without a doubt, the best truly portable espresso maker I have ever tested. It’s an engineering marvel, designed for the traveler, hiker, or camper who refuses to compromise on coffee quality. This hand-powered device is incredibly compact but packs a serious punch, delivering coffee that rivals what you’d get from a machine costing ten times as much.

Specifications:
* Pressure: 18 Bars (manually operated)
* Power Source: Manual (hand-pump)
* Water Capacity: 80ml
* Compatibility: Nespresso Original (NS) Capsules
* Dimensions: 130mm height
* Weight: 290g
* Key Materials: Wheat-composed polymers, double-wall structure

What I Liked:
* ✅ True Portability: This thing is tiny and feather-light at just 290g. I found it fits perfectly in a backpack’s water bottle pocket or even a large jacket pocket. It’s the definition of an espresso maker for camping and travel.
* ✅ Genuine Espresso Pressure: The manual pump system is the star of the show. It generates an astonishing 18 bars of pressure, which is more than many home machines. This results in a legitimate espresso shot with a thick, stable, and beautiful crema every single time.
* ✅ No Electricity Needed: Being fully hand-powered is its greatest strength. You can make espresso anywhere—on a mountaintop, at a remote campsite, or in a hotel room in a foreign country—without ever worrying about batteries or finding an outlet.
* ✅ Simple & Fast Cleanup: Because it uses capsules, there are no messy coffee grounds to deal with. Cleanup is as simple as ejecting the used pod and rinsing the device with water. This is a massive advantage for on-the-go use.
* ✅ Sustainably Designed: I was impressed to learn the body is made with wheat-composed polymers, which is a nice touch for a product designed to be used outdoors. It feels both eco-conscious and durable.
* ✅ Cool to the Touch: The double-wall construction is a brilliant and practical feature. Even after preheating it with boiling water, the exterior remains cool and comfortable to hold and operate.

What Could Be Improved:
* ❌ Requires Boiling Water: This is the main trade-off for its portability. It does not heat water itself, so you must have a separate source of hot water like a kettle, a thermos, or a campfire.
* ❌ Capsule Dependent: This specific NS2 model only works with Nespresso Original-style capsules. This is great for convenience but means you can’t use your own favorite ground coffee. Wacaco does make other models for ground coffee, but this one is capsule-only.
* ❌ Small Shot Volume: The 80ml water tank is designed for a single shot of espresso (up to 60ml extraction). If you want a double shot or a larger drink, you’ll have to repeat the process.

My Expert Experience
* Portability & Design: The French design is not just elegant; it’s incredibly functional. Every part screws together securely, and it feels like a solid, premium gadget in your hand. During my four weeks of testing, I threw it in my bag daily, and it showed no signs of wear. Its compact size is a game-changer for anyone who values packing light.

• Manual Pump & Pressure System: I was skeptical that a hand pump could be so effective, but I was wrong. The piston is easy to unlock and pump. It does take a bit of effort—about 20-30 pumps—but it’s very manageable, and the reward is a surprisingly high-quality extraction. I found the tactile process of manually creating the pressure to be quite satisfying.

• Shot Quality & Crema: For a device this small, the shot quality is simply outstanding. The high pressure extracts a rich, flavorful, and syrupy espresso with a generous layer of golden-brown crema. In a blind test, I doubt many could tell the difference between a shot from the Minipresso NS2 and one from a basic home machine. It’s far superior to what you’d get from an AeroPress or Moka pot in terms of true espresso character.

Best Compact Countertop Machine: Gevi Commercial Espresso Maker Review

While not a handheld device, the Gevi Commercial Espresso Maker earns its spot on this list as the best compact espresso machine for home users who crave professional features without sacrificing their entire countertop. Its slim profile and powerful internals make it a fantastic choice for small kitchens and apartments.

Specifications:
* Pressure: 20 Bars (electric pump)
* Power Source: Electric (countertop)
* Housing: Full Stainless Steel
* Key Features: Manual milk frother, NTC temperature control, pressure gauge
* Dimensions: 12.3″D x 5.5″W x 12″H
* Compatibility: Ground coffee

What I Liked:
* ✅ Exceptional 20-Bar Pressure: The 20-bar Italian pump provides powerful and consistent pressure. Combined with a pre-infusion feature, it allows for excellent flavor extraction from finely ground coffee. The results are rich and complex.
* ✅ Helpful Pressure Gauge: The analog pressure gauge on the front is a fantastic feature usually found on much more expensive machines. It gives you real-time feedback, helping you dial in your grind and tamp for the perfect shot.
* ✅ Powerful Steam Wand: The steam wand is surprisingly potent for a machine this size. During my testing, it quickly created silky, paint-like microfoam that was perfect for pouring lattes and cappuccinos. It has serious power.
* ✅ Durable & Stylish Build: The full stainless steel body not only looks sleek and modern on a countertop but is also incredibly durable and easy to wipe clean. It feels like a much more premium machine.
* ✅ Hot Water Function: A dedicated hot water function is a great bonus. I used it frequently for making Americanos or for pre-heating my espresso cups, which helps maintain shot temperature.
* ✅ Very Slim Footprint: At only 5.5 inches wide, this machine can fit into very tight spaces, making it ideal for anyone with a crowded kitchen counter.

What Could Be Improved:
* ❌ Not Portable: To be clear, despite its compact size, this is a stationary countertop machine. It weighs a fair bit and needs to be plugged in, so it’s not suitable for travel.
* ❌ Learning Curve for Frothing: The steam wand is powerful, which is great, but it also means there’s a learning curve. It took me a few tries to get the angle and depth just right to achieve perfect microfoam consistently.
* ❌ Portafilter Can Be Tight: The 51mm portafilter can be a bit stiff to lock into place initially. It loosened up over my testing period but required a firm hand at first.

My Expert Experience
* Build & Durability: This machine feels substantial. The moment I unboxed it, the weight and feel of the stainless steel housing gave me confidence. It’s compact but doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. The buttons and knobs all have a satisfying, tactile click.

• Extraction & Pressure System: The combination of a 20-bar pump and a pre-infusion cycle makes a noticeable difference in shot quality. I was able to pull balanced, flavorful shots with thick, lasting crema after a little bit of practice dialing in my grind size. The pressure gauge is genuinely useful, guiding me to the “espresso range” for optimal extraction.

• Steam Wand & Frothing Performance: I was most impressed by the steam power. It’s more than capable of texturing milk for latte art, something many compact machines struggle with. The removable froth nozzle makes cleaning the wand straightforward, which is a big plus for daily use. For anyone serious about milk drinks in a small space, the Gevi is a top-tier choice.

Best for Authentic Cappuccinos: De’Longhi Stilosa Review

The De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is a fantastic entry from one of the most trusted names in coffee. It’s a compact, stylish machine that focuses on doing the basics exceptionally well, particularly when it comes to milk frothing. If your morning ritual revolves around a perfect cappuccino or latte, this is the compact machine for you.

Specifications:
* Pressure: 15 Bars (electric pump)
* Power Source: Electric (countertop)
* Key Features: Manual milk frother, stainless steel boiler, two-level cup holder
* Compatibility: Ground coffee (single & double shot filters included)
* Dimensions: 13.5″ x 8.07″ x 11.22″
* Housing: Black and Stainless

What I Liked:
* ✅ Excellent Manual Frother: The steam wand is well-designed and powerful. It makes it easy to texture milk for a true cappuccino or latte, giving you full control over the foam’s consistency. It consistently produced great results.
* ✅ Consistent 15-Bar Pressure: The 15-bar pump is the industry standard for quality home espresso, and the Stilosa delivers it reliably. This guarantees optimal pressure for a rich, perfectly extracted shot every time.
* ✅ Durable Stainless Steel Boiler: The boiler is engineered for longevity and consistent performance. During my testing, it heated up quickly and maintained a stable water temperature shot after shot, which is crucial for good espresso.
* ✅ Reputable Brand: De’Longhi is a leader in the coffee machine world, and that reputation brings confidence. You know you’re getting a product with proven engineering and good customer support.
* ✅ Thoughtful Design: The two-level cup holder is a small but brilliant feature. You can remove the top tray to fit taller mugs for lattes, which I found very convenient.
* ✅ Easy to Use: With a simple control dial, this machine is very approachable for beginners while still offering the manual control that enthusiasts appreciate.

What Could Be Improved:
* ❌ Mostly Plastic Construction: While the boiler is stainless steel and there are stainless accents, the main housing is largely plastic. It feels solid enough but lacks the premium, durable feel of an all-metal machine like the Gevi.
* ❌ Stationary Countertop Use: Just like the Gevi, this is a compact machine designed to live in a kitchen. It is not a portable device for travel.
* ❌ Takes Time to Switch Functions: You need to wait a little bit for the machine to heat up to steam temperature after pulling a shot, and then cool down again. It’s a minor inconvenience common in single-boiler machines.

My Expert Experience
* Design & Footprint: The De’Longhi Stilosa has a modern, slim profile that fits well on crowded countertops without being an eyesore. It’s contemporary and functional. The controls are intuitive, and I was pulling my first shot within minutes of unboxing it.

• Pump Performance & Boiler: The machine consistently delivers the 15 bars of pressure needed for a proper extraction. The stainless steel boiler is a key feature, as it heats up relatively quickly and, more importantly, maintains a stable temperature, preventing sour or burnt-tasting shots.

• Manual Frothing Experience: This is where the Stilosa truly shines for its category. I found the steam wand very user-friendly and powerful for its size. I was able to create velvety, pourable microfoam consistently, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who primarily drinks milk-based espresso beverages. If you love lattes, this machine will make you very happy.

Best Budget-Friendly Pick: KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Machine Review

The KEENSTAR 3.5Bar Espresso Machine is all about accessibility. It’s an incredibly affordable and simple machine designed for beginners who want to dip their toes into making espresso-style drinks at home without a significant investment. It’s important to set expectations correctly: this is not a true espresso maker, but a steam-powered coffee brewer.

Specifications:
* Pressure: 3.5 Bars (steam pressure)
* Power Source: Electric (countertop)
* Power: 800W
* Key Features: Single switch knob, steam wand, easy-pour glass cup
* Dimensions: 13.1″ H x 7.7″ W x 10″ D
* Compatibility: Ground coffee

What I Liked:
* ✅ Extremely Simple Operation: There’s a single knob that controls everything—on, brew, and steam. This makes it absolutely foolproof for beginners. There’s no complex setup or learning curve to worry about.
* ✅ Very Affordable Price: This machine offers an entry point into making lattes and cappuccinos at home for a fraction of the price of a traditional espresso machine. It’s a great gift for a college student or someone new to coffee.
* ✅ Fast Brewing: The 800W heating element heats the water quickly. It can produce up to 4 “cups” (about 240ml) of strong coffee in just a couple of minutes, which is great for a quick morning brew.
* ✅ Compact and Lightweight: It has a very small footprint and is light enough to be easily moved and stored in a cabinet when not in use.

What Could Be Improved:
* ❌ Low Pressure System: This is the most critical point. At 3.5 bars, this machine uses steam pressure, not a high-pressure pump. It produces a strong, concentrated coffee similar to a Moka pot, but not true espresso with rich, thick crema.
* ❌ Accessories Not Dishwasher Safe: All parts, including the glass carafe and filter basket, require manual cleaning. It’s not difficult, but it is a bit more tedious than just rinsing a portafilter.
* ❌ Basic Frothing: The steam wand can add foam to milk, but it creates larger, stiffer bubbles rather than the silky microfoam you get from a high-pressure machine. It’s fine for a basic home cappuccino but not for latte art.

My Expert Experience
* Ease of Use & Simplicity: This machine is all about simplicity. The single-knob design removes all guesswork. It’s a “set it and forget it” option for making a quick, strong coffee drink in the morning. For someone intimidated by complex machines, this is a very welcoming starting point.

• Pressure & “Espresso” Quality: It’s vital to understand that 3.5 bars of steam pressure will not create genuine espresso. The result is a concentrated, Moka-style coffee. It’s pleasant and strong, and you can make a decent latte with it, but it lacks the body, complexity, and signature crema of a high-pressure extraction.

• Steam Wand Performance: The steam wand is functional. It will heat your milk and create foam. However, the foam is more like what you’d scoop with a spoon, not what you’d pour for art. For someone who just wants a foamy top on their coffee, the KEENSTAR machine does the job perfectly fine for its price.

Best Stovetop Moka Pot Set: Primula Stovetop Espresso Maker Review

As a classic alternative, I had to include a Moka pot. The Primula Stovetop Espresso Maker Set is an excellent package for making strong, rich, espresso-like coffee the traditional Italian way. It’s not technically espresso, but it’s a beloved brewing method that produces a fantastic base for lattes and cappuccinos, and this set includes a frother to complete the experience.

Specifications:
* Pressure: ~1.5 Bars (steam pressure)
* Power Source: Stovetop (Moka pot), 2xAA Batteries (Frother)
* Capacity: 6 Espresso Cups
* Key Features: Comes as a gift set with a separate handheld electric milk frother
* Compatibility: Ground coffee
* Material: Aluminum

What I Liked:
* ✅ Classic, Rich Coffee: The Moka pot produces a famously rich, strong, and aromatic coffee. It’s the foundation for many classic Italian and Cuban coffee drinks, and for good reason—it’s delicious.
* ✅ Complete Drink Set: The inclusion of a separate battery-powered milk frother is a brilliant touch. It means you have everything you need to make lattes and cappuccinos right out of the box (minus the batteries).
* ✅ Simple and Timeless Design: There are no electronics or complex parts to break on the Moka pot itself. This brewing method has been trusted for decades for its simplicity, reliability, and fantastic results.
* ✅ Great Value Gift: The combination of a 6-cup Moka pot and a handheld frother makes this an excellent and highly affordable gift for any coffee lover in your life.
* ✅ Works on Most Stovetops: This aluminum pot works great on gas and electric stovetops, making it a versatile brewer for almost any kitchen.

What Could Be Improved:
* ❌ Not True Espresso: Like the Keenstar, this is a low-pressure brewing method that makes concentrated coffee, not pump-driven espresso. You won’t get a thick layer of crema.
* ❌ Requires a Stovetop: This method is entirely dependent on having a stove, so it’s not a portable solution for camping or office travel unless you bring a separate heat source like a camping stove.
* ❌ Aluminum Construction: While classic, aluminum requires more careful cleaning and should not be put in the dishwasher. It can also be reactive with certain coffees over time if not maintained.

My Expert Experience
* Brewing Process & Coffee Quality: Using the Primula Moka Pot is a classic, enjoyable coffee ritual. The gurgling sound and the rich aroma that fills the kitchen are part of the experience. The resulting coffee is bold, robust, and beautifully concentrated—perfect on its own or as a base for a milk drink.

• Included Milk Frother: The handheld frother is simple but surprisingly effective. I heated some milk in the microwave for 30 seconds, and the frother whipped up a decent foam in under a minute. It’s a fantastic addition that makes this set much more versatile than just a Moka pot alone.

• Overall Value: As a complete package, this set offers fantastic value. It provides a reliable, time-tested way to make great coffee and frothed milk without the expense or counter space of an electric machine. It’s a perfect starting point for exploring classic coffee culture.

Handheld & Compact Espresso Maker Comparison Chart

This table gives you a quick, at-a-glance comparison of the key features that differentiate the five models I tested.

Feature	WACACO Minipresso	Gevi Commercial	De’Longhi Stilosa	KEENSTAR Machine	Primula Moka Pot
Category	Best Overall Handheld	Best Compact Countertop	Best for Cappuccinos	Best Budget Pick	Best Stovetop Set
Pressure	18 Bars (Manual)	20 Bars (Electric)	15 Bars (Electric)	3.5 Bars (Steam)	~1.5 Bars (Steam)
Power Source	Hand-Pump	Electric (Corded)	Electric (Corded)	Electric (Corded)	Stovetop
Milk Frother?	No	Yes (Integrated Wand)	Yes (Integrated Wand)	Yes (Integrated Wand)	Yes (Separate)
Best For	Travel, Camping, Hiking	Small Kitchens, Baristas	Latte & Cappuccino Lovers	Beginners on a Budget	Classic Home Brewing
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	3.8/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Portable Espresso Maker

Choosing the right device for espresso on the go (or in a small space) comes down to understanding your priorities. This guide will walk you through the most important factors to match a machine to your specific needs.

• True Portability vs. Compact Countertop: First, decide where you’ll be brewing. If you need a device for hiking, camping, or car travel, a true handheld maker like the WACACO Minipresso is essential. It’s lightweight, requires no electricity, and packs easily. If you simply have limited counter space, a compact countertop machine like the Gevi or De’Longhi offers more power and convenience for home use.

• Pressure (Bars): The Key to Real Espresso: This is critical. True espresso requires at least 9 bars of pressure to extract oils and create crema. Machines with 15-20 bars (like the Gevi and De’Longhi) are ideal for authentic espresso. Manual makers like the WACACO can also achieve this high pressure. Devices with 3.5 bars or less use steam pressure and produce a strong, Moka-pot-style coffee, not espresso.

• Power Source: Manual vs. Electric vs. Stovetop: A manual, hand-pump model offers ultimate freedom from batteries and outlets, making it the best for off-grid adventures. An electric countertop model is fast and convenient for home use but requires a plug. A stovetop Moka pot is a timeless, reliable method if you have access to a cooktop.

• Coffee Type: Capsules vs. Ground Coffee: Capsule-based machines (like the Minipresso NS2) offer incredible convenience and zero mess, which is a huge advantage for travel. Ground coffee machines give you the freedom to choose any bean from any roaster and dial in your grind size for the perfect shot, which is what coffee hobbyists prefer.

• Milk Frothing: If you love lattes and cappuccinos, this is a key consideration. Look for machines with an integrated steam wand. The power of the wand on a high-pressure machine (Gevi, De’Longhi) will produce much better microfoam than the wands on low-pressure steam machines. Alternatively, a set with a separate handheld frother (like the Primula) is a great, versatile option.

• Ease of Cleaning: For travel, easy cleanup is paramount. Capsule machines are the clear winners here. For home machines, look for features like removable drip trays and froth nozzles to simplify the cleaning process.

FAQs About Handheld Espresso Makers

What is the best handheld espresso maker?

For true portability and genuine espresso quality, my top recommendation is the WACACO Minipresso NS2. It’s manually powered, achieves an impressive 18 bars of pressure, and is incredibly compact, making it the best all-around choice for travel, camping, and making espresso on the go.

Do portable espresso makers actually work?

Yes, high-quality portable espresso makers absolutely work. Models that can generate 9 bars of pressure or more, like the WACACO series, can produce legitimate espresso shots with rich crema that are comparable to what you’d get from a good home machine. Low-pressure devices, however, produce a different, Moka-pot-style coffee.

Which portable espresso maker heats water?

Most manual handheld espresso makers, including the WACACO Minipresso, do not heat water themselves to save on size, weight, and complexity. You must add pre-heated water from a kettle or thermos. Some larger, more expensive battery-powered electric portable models do exist with a self-heating function, but they are often heavier and have limited battery life.

What is the best espresso maker for camping?

The best espresso maker for camping is a manual, durable, and lightweight model like the WACACO Minipresso. Since it requires no electricity and is very compact and robust, it’s perfect for packing with other camping gear. You just need a way to boil water, such as a camping stove or Jetboil.

Can you use Nespresso pods in a handheld maker?

Yes, many handheld makers are specifically designed for capsules. The WACACO Minipresso NS2, my top pick, is compatible with Nespresso Original (NS) capsules, which makes for very easy prep and cleanup while traveling. Always check the product specifications, as some models are for ground coffee only, while others may offer adapters.

Is handheld espresso as good as a machine?

A top-tier handheld espresso maker can produce a shot that is surprisingly close to a good home machine. While a large, expensive countertop machine offers more control and consistency, the quality from a high-pressure manual device like the WACACO is excellent and far superior to other portable coffee methods like AeroPress or a travel French press when it comes to replicating an authentic espresso shot.

How to get the best crema from a handheld maker?

To get the best crema, use quality, fresh capsules or freshly ground coffee beans. Always pre-heat the device by running a cycle with just hot water first. This prevents the cold device from shocking the coffee and killing the crema. Finally, ensure you are applying consistent and steady pressure during the manual pump cycle.

Are electric portable espresso makers worth it?

Electric portable espresso makers that are battery-powered can be worth it if convenience is your absolute top priority and you dislike manual pumping. However, they come with trade-offs. They are often heavier and bulkier than manual models, depend on battery life, and may not reach the same high pressures as a good manual pump.

Can you make a latte with a handheld espresso maker?

Yes, you can easily make a latte by combining a shot from your handheld espresso maker with separately frothed milk. Since most handhelds don’t have steam wands, you would need a separate device like a battery-powered milk frother (like the one in the Primula set) or even a French press to texture your milk before adding the espresso shot.

How much pressure do handheld espresso makers need?

For true espresso, a handheld maker needs to generate at least 9 bars of pressure. The best models, like the WACACO, can reach 15-18 bars. Anything significantly lower (e.g., 3-5 bars) is using steam pressure and will produce a strong coffee but will lack the characteristic syrupy body and rich crema of an authentic espresso shot.

My Final Verdict: Which Compact Espresso Maker Should You Buy?

After extensive testing of these compact and portable espresso makers, my recommendation is clear and depends entirely on your primary need: genuine portability or compact home use.

For the coffee enthusiast who needs genuine espresso anywhere, anytime, the choice is simple.

• Perfect for you if… you travel, hike, camp, or want a great shot at the office without any fuss.
• Perfect for you if… you value lightweight, compact gear that doesn’t require batteries or electricity.
• Perfect for you if… you love the rich crema and intense flavor of a high-pressure extraction.
• Perfect for you if… you use and appreciate the convenience of Nespresso-compatible capsules.

Then the best choice is, without question, the WACACO Minipresso NS2. Its combination of true portability, powerful 18-bar pressure extraction, and capsule convenience is simply unmatched for making coffee on the move.

However, if you’re looking for a powerful but small machine for your kitchen to make daily lattes and cappuccinos, my top pick is the Gevi Commercial Espresso Maker.

• Not ideal for… travelers or anyone needing an off-grid solution.
• Not ideal for… users who want a push-button, fully automatic experience.

The Gevi’s 20-bar pump and robust steam wand deliver barista-quality results without taking over your countertop, offering the best home performance among the models I tested.

Ultimately, whether you choose the travel-ready WACACO or the powerful countertop Gevi, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a fantastic espresso-based drink. Happy brewing

Last update on 2026-01-31 at 18:25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API