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10 Best Travel Coffee Makers in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

There are countless travel and portable coffee makers on the market, but we’ve handpicked the best ones to make your life easier. You may prefer a particular coffee-brewing method, and just because you are traveling doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice coffee made the way you like it. No matter what you’re looking for in a travel coffee maker, from espresso machines to French presses, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our list of the 10 best.

• A Quick Summary of Our Favorites in 2024

The 10 Best Travel Coffee Makers

• 1. AeroPress Portable Coffee Maker – Best Overall

The AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker is everything you want in a travel coffee maker. It’s extremely lightweight (only 13 ounces) and compact, so it won’t take up much space in your bag. It makes coffee fast, with less than two minutes to brew a cup, which is perfect for when you’re on the go. It’s easy to use and easy to clean. Best of all, it’s completely manual. It doesn’t require electricity, so you only need access to hot water. This makes it ideal for any travel situation: hotels, beach houses, your friend’s house, or even camping and backpacking .

The only issue is that it can only make one cup of coffee at a time. If you want more than one cup, or if you want to impress your friends with your coffee-brewing skills, you have to go through the process all over again.

All in all, we think this is the best travel coffee maker of the year.

By the way… you can read our full review of the AeroPress coffee maker here !

• Very lightweight
• Makes coffee fast
• Inexpensive
• Easy to use
• Easy cleanup
• No electricity needed
• Only makes a single cup of coffee at a time
• 2. Bodum TravelPress – Best French Press Coffee Maker for Travel

We chose the Bodum Travel Press as the best french press coffee maker for travel, as it’s incredibly convenient. The travel cup comes with a plunger and filter, so you brew your coffee right in your travel cup. This means you don’t have to pack a separate coffee maker or paper filters, saving valuable space in your luggage. It’s made of a stainless steel double-wall design that keeps coffee piping hot, so be careful! It’s quick and easy to use, which is great for travel. It even comes in a few bold color choices.

On the negative side, this isn’t the best cup for daily use. That’s fine if you plan to use it just for travel, but the durability is questionable. The filter breaks down over time, and the lid tends to be flimsy.

To conclude, we think this is the best portable French press coffee maker. Take it on your next trip and see what you think!

RELATED READ:  There’s a new French press in town.. and it’s solar-powered!

• Brews in a travel cup
• Insulated stainless steel cup keeps coffee hot
• Available in various colors
• Quick and easy to use
• Not as durable; breaks down over time
• 3. Black+Decker Portable Single Serve Coffee Maker – Best Value

The Black + Decker Single Serve is another great portable coffee maker that brews right in the travel cup. It’s an auto-drip maker, but its compact design makes it ideal for travel and small spaces ( like a dorm room ). A permanent filter is included, so you don’t have to worry about disposing of or buying paper filters. It’s also very inexpensive.

It does have a couple of problems, however. It comes with a plastic travel cup, which won’t keep your coffee hot for long. You can upgrade to any 16-ounce travel mug, but that’s an added expense. It’s also not very durable and shouldn’t be used for daily use.

• Compact design
• Permanent filter
• Plastic travel cup
• Not very durable

NOTE:  You can see a breakdown of the best travel-friendly ESPRESSO makers here

• 4. Keurig K-Mini – Best Travel K-Cup Coffee Maker

Keurig is the manufacturer of popular K-Cup makers , so it makes sense to include their most travel-friendly model on this list. The Keurig K-Mini is extremely compact and lightweight; it’s only 4.5 inches wide, and it weighs a little less than five pounds. It comes in a variety of colors, and it has a compartment for K-Cup storage. For more potent cups of coffee, it has a strong brew option.

If you’re the type of person who likes more than one cup of coffee in the morning, then this design might get a little tedious, since the water reservoir can only hold up to 12 ounces. Other than the strong brew option and a couple of size options, this brewer doesn’t have any extra features.

Read our full review of the Keurig Mini here!

• Extremely compact and lightweight
• Available in several colors
• Strong brew option
• Only enough water for one cup of coffee
• No extra features
• 5. GSI Portable Portable Pour-Over Coffee Brewer

The GSI Outdoors Java Drip is a great option for backpacking, camping, or boating. It collapses almost completely flat and is made of durable silicone. Fewer parts mean easy cleanup, and it’s easy to use. Just insert a paper filter, place the silicone disc over your mug or travel cup, and use the pour-over coffee-making method with hot water. It’s big enough to use a regular-size coffee filter, so it can handle up to twelve cups of coffee.

Even though the silicone makes it durable and easy to clean, it has a detectable smell, especially right out of the box. This can affect the taste of your coffee. You’ll also need paper filters, which are another thing to purchase, take up space in your bag, and dispose of.

• Collapsible, lightweight design
• Easy to clean and use
• Brews 1-12 cups of coffee
• Silicone can affect the taste of coffee
• Paper filters needed
• 6. Wacaco Minipresso Portable Travel Espresso Maker

If you can’t live without espresso while you’re traveling, especially in situations where you won’t have access to electricity, the Wacaco Minipresso is a great choice. All of its parts stack together into one unit, so it’s very compact. It comes in at 0.8 lbs, which is very light. It’s entirely manually operated via a pumping mechanism, so you don’t have to worry about batteries or finding an outlet.

However, with eight BARs of pressure, it’s just under the nine BARs needed for espresso. This means that the grounds are a bit under-extracted. Quite a bit of hand strength is needed for the pump, and even though the company’s video shows it being operated with only one hand, many people will need to use both. All those parts also mean it’s harder to clean, and some will require air-drying.

Read our full review of the Wacaco Minipresso here! (We loved it).

• Compact and lightweight
• Manually operated
• Harder to clean
• Espresso is under-extracted
• Hand strength required
• 7. Coffee Gator Travel Pour-Over Coffee Brewer Mug

The Coffee Gator Pour Over Brewer Mug is another option for pour-over brewing, where you can brew directly into the included travel mug. It’s made of vacuum-insulated stainless steel, and it has a copper lining to keep your coffee hotter longer. The metal filter means you don’t have to buy paper filters or have them take up space in your luggage. It comes in a range of colors, and it’s easy to use.

There are a few things that keep it from the top of the list, however. It has a flimsy lid, so the durability is questionable. The lid also has a few small parts, making it difficult to clean. This wouldn’t be a good choice for daily use, as the filter appeared to break down over time.

• Brews right in the travel mug
• Made of quality materials to keep coffee hot
• Metal filter
• Available in a variety of colors
• Difficult to clean
• Questionable durability
• Filter breaks down over time
• 8. Bialetti Portable Stovetop Coffee Maker

This is the compact, travel-friendly version of the Bialetti Moka pot you love. It’s extremely portable because it’s entirely self-contained. Just add ground coffee and water. The brew time is fast at under five minutes, and it’s easy to clean.

One major issue, however, is that you’ll need access to a stovetop or campfire. That’s not a problem if you’re staying in a hotel suite with a kitchen or traveling in an RV , but it wouldn’t be the best travel coffee maker choice for a regular hotel room, for example. It’s also a bit heavier than some of the other options, at a little more than a pound. It only makes one small cup, so it’s a bit of a pain if you want multiple cups of coffee.

• Entirely self-contained
• Easy to clean
• Fast brew time
• Requires access to a stovetop or fire
• On the heavier side
• Only makes one small cup
• 9. Presto MyJo Single Cup Travel Coffee-Maker

The Presto MyJo is another good choice for camping, backpacking, or other traveling activity where you don’t have access to electricity. If you love the convenience of a K-Cup brewer, this is the travel coffee maker for you. It uses K-Cups, but it also comes with a reusable coffee filter that you can fill with your own ground coffee. The design is extremely compact, and it weighs less than a pound.

Unfortunately, the reusable filter is also pretty delicate, and it’s custom-made by Presto, so you have to order it from the company. The MyJo isn’t very durable, and the gasket leaks easily if you don’t have it properly sealed. It may also be convenient that no electricity is needed, but it requires a lot of force to pump the water through.

• Extremely compact design
• K-Cup compatible
• Reusable coffee filter included
• Reusable coffee filter is delicate
• Tends to leak
• Takes a lot of force to pump water
• 10. Takeya Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker

Can’t live without your iced coffee , even when traveling? Then the Takeya Cold Brew is the coffee maker for you. It’s easy to use; you only need coffee grounds and cold water. This design is especially compact and lightweight, at just under 10 ounces.

However, the handle is flimsy, and the lid tends to leak if you aren’t careful. The filter also never forms a perfect seal, so grounds always manage to escape into the coffee. Because of this, the overall design doesn’t seem very durable. It’s fine for occasional travel use, but it wouldn’t be a good choice for daily use.

• Lightweight
• Filter allows coffee grounds to escape
• Tends to be flimsy
• Prone to leaks
• Final Thoughts – Finding the Best Travel Coffee Maker

We think Aeropress is the best travel coffee maker of the year. It’s lightweight and compact enough for air travel, and the fact that it doesn’t require electricity makes it ideal for camping. It makes both American-style coffee and espresso, so it can suit the tastes of almost everyone.

If you can’t leave home without your French press, then the Bodum Travel Press is the best for travel. The fact that it brews directly in the travel mug makes it great for travel, and it won’t take up much space in your luggage.

If you’re on a budget, Black + Decker’s Single-Serve Coffeemaker is inexpensive and also brews right in the travel mug. This is an auto-drip model that’s easy to use and familiar to just about everyone.

For those who love the convenience and efficiency of a K-Cup coffee maker, the Keurig K-Mini is perfect to take along. Its compact design ensures it won’t take up much space, while still giving you the speed and efficiency you’ve come to expect from a single-serve coffee maker.

Whether you prefer a cup of espresso or love the convenience of a K-Cup, we hope our reviews helped you find the travel coffee maker to suit your needs. We truly hope that our guide helps you find the best portable coffee maker for your tastebuds. Happy brewing!

WORTH READING:

• Can you bring coffee beans on a plane?
• Airplane Coffee Guide: What Kind of Coffee Do Airlines Serve?

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The 13 Best Portable Travel Coffee Makers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

774 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

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Why Buy a Portable Coffee Maker?

The different types of coffee makers, things to consider with a travel coffee maker, 1. big tasting coffee from a tiny device, 2. a travel mug for coffee enthusiasts, 3. perfect espresso wherever you go, 4. easy expresso at the push of a button, 1. affordable, portable, pour-over coffee maker, 2. a quirky little gadget that delivers great coffee, 3. an all-in-one brew method for great coffee on the go, 4. a durable coffee maker for every kind of adventure, 1. share great coffee with your significant other, 2. big-brand beverages from bodum, 3. a beautiful italian standard both at home and away, 4. single-serve packs with flavor, 5. unique coffee brewing from a world leader, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Whether you are looking for something to perk up your morning commute or want to sip a hot cup of joe on a mountain top in the middle of nowhere, a portable coffee maker is an absolute game-changer.

From single cup heaters to coffee makers you can share with friends, a portable coffee maker is a travel must-have for those who never want to miss a coffee fix, wherever they are headed.

Sure, you could nip into the nearest Starbucks (or other coffee shops available) and grab a paper cup on the go. But being able to brew your favorite hot beverage is far more satisfying and much more cost-effective.

Portable coffee makers are, among other things:

An automatic coffee maker can brew up a cup at the touch of a button. Your morning cup can be just as tasty as it is at home, even on the road.

Fancy lattes and other brews can be expensive. Nice for the occasional treat, but buying 1 every day can soon add up. Making your own will save you money from the get-go.

Compact, discreet, and easy to take with you, a portable coffee maker can fit in your carry-on bag and be produced for a brew whenever you need it.

Blendable To Suit Your Tastes

Once you get used to using your coffee maker, you will soon be brewing like a barista as you mix blends and flavors to create your perfect cup.

Because not all coffee makers are the same, they offer varying ways to brew your coffee on the go.

The most common types of coffee makers include:

Pour-over Coffee Makers

Possibly the best option for longer journeys, pour-over coffee makers are compact and light as a feather. Carry just a few grams of your favorite blend and voilà — a perfect coffee on the go. The only downside to these types of coffee makers is that you may have to wait a few minutes for your brew.

French Press

French press coffee makers work by immersing all of the coffee in hot water to capture more of its natural flavor, resulting in a rich, strong cup of coffee. While the coffee may be better, the cleaning processes take longer, and some French press coffee makers are more portable than others.

Espresso Makers

If you like your coffee dark, a portable espresso maker will give you big flavors on the go. As the machine applies pressure to the beans, the maximum flavor and oils spill out, giving the same result as bigger coffee machines, but in a compact and completely portable format. These models are the most expensive but will be a big hit with true coffee connoisseurs.

Hot Tip: Check out our favorite travel mugs to go with your travel coffee maker.

When choosing your perfect portable coffee maker, consider the following:

Portability

One of the most important features of a portable coffee maker is that it needs to be “portable” — the clue is in the title. Some types of coffee makers are far larger and bulkier than others, so look for one that suits your needs.

Whichever type of coffee maker you favor, it needs to be easy to carry and not take up too much space. Otherwise, you may as well leave it back at home.

Hot Tip: Look for lightweight materials like silicone, and consider coffee makers that are complete and without the need for lots of other fancy accessories.

Traveling can take its toll on your possessions, and you need to make sure that you buy appliances and devices that will go the distance. Stay clear of delicate glass coffee makers and opt instead for reinforced materials such as plastic, silicone, or even aluminum for guaranteed durability.

Brewing Time

A portable coffee maker is almost pointless if you have to wait half of your journey time for it to brew. Choose appliances that take between 30 seconds to 5 minutes to brew, and you can enjoy speedy coffee on the go.

Ease of Cleaning

Dirty coffee is not good coffee. Consider where you are headed and how easy the coffee maker will be to clean when you get there. If you are hotel-based or have an apartment, you can enjoy the luxuries of a hot tap and maybe even a dishwasher, but if you are camping in the middle of nowhere, you should choose a coffee maker that is easy to clean, with minimal components.

Coffee for 1? 2? Or maybe more than a few? The size of your coffee maker could determine how grumpy your fellow travelers will be in the morning. You can be the chief coffee maker for as many as you want, but remember that the larger the capacity of the appliance, the bigger and bulkier it is likely to be.

Nearly every appliance or device you take with you will eventually need charging or require some form of power to make it work. Your portable coffee maker will be no different, but you need to be sure how you need to power it before you go.

Those that don’t run on elbow grease alone will run on electricity or batteries. To ensure your charging needs match your destination, read the instructions and reviews before you buy.

The 4 Best Espresso Makers for Travel

There are many different types of portable coffee makers out there to choose from, all of which will brew you a great cup of coffee. Here are some of our favorites.

Wacaco Minipresso GR, Portable Espresso Machine

Claiming to be one of the smallest and lightest handheld espresso machines on the market , the Wacaco Minipresso could be everything you need for your next big adventure.

Hand-operated and easy to use, the Minipresso uses a semi-automatic piston to allow small quantities of water to be injected into the coffee adapter. After a few pushes, the optimal extraction pressure is achieved, creating a wealth of rich and bold espresso flavors.

This impressive-looking bullet-shaped coffee maker comes with all the accessories you need to brew up a great single cup of coffee, as well as a travel case to keep it safe on the go. It is one of the more expensive models on this list, but its innovative design, sleek good looks, and impressive espresso-making capabilities make the price tag well worth it.

What We Like

• Produces perfect crema

What We Don’t Like

• Only makes 1 shot of espresso with cleaning required after each shot

Espro Travel Coffee Press, Stainless Steel

Make 10 ounces of great-tasting coffee with this traditional travel mug-style coffee maker. Super easy to use and carry with you, this travel press creates awesome coffee in an instant.

The leak-free mug lets you enjoy your freshly brewed coffee wherever you may be, and the patented double micro-filter keeps your cup free of grit and sludge, allowing you to drink it upright to the last sip.

The insulated double-walled stainless steel construction will keep your brew hot for hours , and the filter press will keep your coffee from getting bitter. Durable build quality makes this an excellent choice for regular travelers, and the BPA, BPS, and phthalate-free mugs will keep your coffee tasting completely authentic.

• Portable press that stays hot for hours
• The plunger is tight to remove to clean
• STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine

This swanky little coffee maker has everything you need to pour a cup of authentic tasting espresso. Measuring just 8 x 6 inches, this is an incredibly portable little device that weighs next to nothing and is super easy to use.

Compatible with both Nespresso pods and ground coffee , all you need is access to hot water to be brewing like a pro. Intuitive and straightforward to use, the patented pumping system means you can make espresso without the use of any electricity, just by using your elbow grease alone. Once you are done, the modular design makes it easy to clean and pack away the coffee maker until your next craving.

Made from high-quality BPA-free material, with a stainless steel pump and coffee chamber, the Staresso is an attractive, sophisticated, and easy-to-use portable espresso maker for serious coffee lovers.

• Makes espresso and froths milk
• The pump can sometimes get stuck
• CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker

The CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker is a clever little device that creates expresso at the touch of a button. Compatible with Nespresso and L’OR coffee pods , you simply pop in a pod, fill with water, and press the button.

Automated pressure builds to 15 bars, and depending on whether you used boiling or cool water, it will produce creamy, rich, and flavorsome espresso instantly, or within 8 to 10 minutes.

It’s easy to charge up using the supplied home or car charger cables, and it even has a super convenient auto wash function, so all you need to worry about is cleaning your cup.

Lightweight and incredibly portable in its small carry case, this coffee maker is a firm favorite with serious coffee lovers who are always on the go.

• Easy to use and wash
• Only creates 3 servings per charge

The 4 Best Pour-Over Coffee Makers   for Travel

• Primula Brew Buddy Portable Pour Over

Create perfect coffee on the go with an easy personal brewing system that works in minutes. Unlike some of the larger portable coffee makers here, this little device is portable, slimline, and incredibly easy to take with you , meaning that you can make the perfect cup every time.

All you need is a cup and some hot water to create a perfect single cup of coffee. Simply place the Brew Buddy over your cup, add your coffee, and sit back and brew before enjoying the rich, smooth taste.

Dishwasher safe at home or easy to rinse through on the road, this little gadget also eliminates the need for reusable paper filters, coffee pods, or K-Cups, and there is no excess waste from paper filters or plastic pods — perfect!

• Small, lightweight, and easy-to-use
• The filter bag sits in your cup, reducing the space for a full cup of coffee

Kuissential SlickDrip – Collapsible Silicone Coffee Dripper

This quirky-looking little gadget will give you truly excellent coffee on the go. Negating the need for bulky or expensive coffee machines or filters , you can brew up delicious flavors in minutes.

Made from high-grade silicone, this device is durable and completely portable. Unlike some other cheaper plastic coffee drippers, it will not absorb odors or leave a chemical taste in your brew.

To use the SlickDrip, simply place it over your mug, set the paper filter, add coffee and boiling water, and wait for the flavors to drip on through. Perfect for camping, commuting, at work, or at play, the unique collapsible design of this little coffee dripper makes it easy to clean and more practical to carry than glass or porcelain alternatives.

• Flattens down completely for portability
• Leaking can occur when using a skinnier travel mug

Coffee Gator Paperless Pour Over Coffee Maker

Popular with both baristas and regular coffee fans alike, this pour-over coffee maker gives you much more from your beans. Designed to make up to 10.5 ounces of coffee , this pour-over coffee dripper comes in a 100% BPA-free carafe and offers awesome coffee flavors on the go.

Offering an all-in-one brew method, this little beauty is just right for single-cup perfection. The detachable stainless steel filter adds body to the coffee and is much more eco-friendly and efficient than having to replace paper filters time and time again.

The compact dimensions make this small enough to be carried anywhere with ease, and the Coffee Gator company offers a satisfaction guarantee. Good looks and great brews from this cute-looking, single-cup coffee maker.

• Very easy to clean
• The glass bottom can be easily broken

Cahlis all-in-one Travel Coffee Maker and Thermal Cup

A personal pour-over brewer with a difference, this travel coffee maker features a stainless steel mesh filter to make your coffee taste great on the go.

Drip coffee directly into the cup, and the double-wall stainless steel will trap in the heat for longer while keeping the outside cool to the touch. Perfect for long car rides and trips away, the cup has even been designed to fit nearly all car cup holders for awesome ease of use.

The metal filter sets this coffee maker apart from the competition, as well as being more environmentally friendly and cheaper to maintain. This 1-cup coffee maker uses a manual hand drip method to unlock the flavor of your brew. Measuring in at just 8.34 x 4.1 x 4 inches, this is a great choice for coffee lovers.

• The mug has a non-slip grip area for holding
• The metal filter doesn’t store inside mug when transporting

The 5 Best French Presses for Travel

• AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

Perfect for making 1 to 3 cups of coffee on your travels, the AeroPress promises to offer a fuller flavor brew than a traditional French press portable coffee maker. Complete with a press, funnel, scoop, stirrer, 350 micro-filters, and a filter holder, this impressive press measures in at 9.5 x 4 x 4 inches — just right for taking with you.

The superfast brewing process promises a full-flavored cup of coffee that is free from bitterness or the acids that can be produced by some lesser appliances. The patented micro-filter helps to eliminate grit and makes this coffee maker super easy to clean in seconds.

Create espresso-style coffee on the go with this lightweight, portable, and compact coffee maker that is perfect for camping trips, days out, morning commutes, and so much more.

• Easy to clean after use
• Only makes 1 cup at a time
• Bodum Travel Press

Made by the big brand coffee enthusiasts at Bodum, this travel coffee maker holds up to 15 ounces of coffee and is an impressive little addition to your travel kit . Designed for you to enjoy a single cup of French press coffee, you can guarantee plunger perfection every time and an excellent cup of joe.

Incredibly easy to use by just adding coarsely ground coffee and hot water, stirring the contents, replacing the lid with plunger up, and off you go. The silicone and mesh filter also helps to reduce sediment to produce a smoother brew.

Made from vacuum-sealed stainless steel with a double-wall design, your coffee will stay hot for longer, and the non-skid rubber base’s non-slip grip makes for perfect, spillproof coffee anywhere you go.

• Keep the coffee incredibly hot
• Filter plunger is stored inside the mug at all times

Bialetti 06799 Express Moka Pot

Made from high-quality, polished aluminum in the classic octagon shape, this is an iconic Italian coffee maker made by an iconic Italian brand . A real statement piece for your kitchen, you can also take this out and about with you.

Just large enough to hold 4.4 ounces of coffee, this coffee maker is just right for 2. From start to finish, the Bialetti only takes 5 minutes to brew the perfect cup, so you and another coffee drinker can enjoy the very best in next to no time at all.

The distinctive 8-sided shape allows the heat to diffuse perfectly to enhance the aroma of your coffee, and the rich, aromatic flavor is as good as anything you will find in a coffee shop, all in the comfort of your own home.

• Can be washed with just water
• Easy to burn yourself as the pot gets very hot

Presto 02835 MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker

With its compact design, this single cup coffee maker offers many of the benefits of larger coffee makers in a perfectly portable package.

Using single-serve packs, the Presto MyJo offers a portable and affordable way to make great coffee using a K-Cup. By simply compressing the air inside the reservoir to push water through the pack, rich, smooth coffee will drip into your cup, ready to be enjoyed.

Easy to clean, you only need to rinse the base , while the single-serve packs can be disposed of and replaced by a new one when it’s time to brew again. The hot water reservoir is safe and easy to handle, and this type of coffee maker is a good choice for use in hotels and other bases where no coffee machine is present.

• Water can be heated in the reservoir in the microwave
• The rubber seal can fail over time, causing leaks

KOHIPRESS The Original Portable French Press Coffee Maker

As one of the best-selling portable French press coffee makers, there must be something pretty special about this compact little compact coffee maker. Using its patented “Advanced Isolation Mechanism” and a fine mesh filter, coffee lovers can enjoy a rich, flavorsome cup of joe, where the grounds really have separated perfectly from the brew after pressing.

For travelers who appreciate both function and form, the sleek, cylindrical design is sure to impress, and the 3-minute brew time means even quicker coffee.

The insulated double-wall vacuum construction, along with the completely leakproof design, will ensure that your coffee stays hot and tasty wherever you are headed — a really good quality coffee maker for real coffee lovers.

• Coffee grounds stay separated for great tasting coffee
• Coffee doesn’t stay hot for very long

If you can’t get going in the morning without your caffeine fix, a portable coffee maker could be your new best friend. Whether you choose a simple pour-over or a sophisticated espresso maker, the perfect portable beverage is yours for the making.

For smaller budgets, remote locations, and the most intrepid adventurers, invest in a pour-over with easy cleaning capabilities. If you can take your coffee maker home to a dishwasher, or want something that offers a superior brew to better your barista, a French press or espresso maker might be more your thing.

Looking for more travel products? Explore all of our best travel products reviews — all in one place. For coffee junkies, also check out our travel coffee grinders guide to get that perfect cup of coffee on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i take a coffee maker in my carry-on.

Coffee makers and espresso makers can be packed in your carry-on. Just make sure that there is no liquid inside.

Can you use a coffee maker without electricity?

There are many portable coffee makers that do not require electricity or even batteries. For example, the STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine runs on elbow grease alone, as does the Wacaco Minipresso.

What is the best travel coffee maker?

There are plenty of great lightweight, affordable, and portable coffee makers that are perfect for travel. Here are a few you should consider:

• Wacaco Minipresso GR
• Espro Travel Coffee Press

Are there battery-operated coffee makers?

Some portable coffee machines are battery-operated, but most have a built-in rechargeable battery. Other coffee machines are hand-operated.

How do you make coffee when traveling?

From single cup heaters to coffee makers you can share with friends, a portable coffee maker is a travel must-have. These range from a French press to an espresso machine and are usually simple to use by adding ground coffee or whole beans.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Best Portable Coffee Makers for Travel

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 14 Comments

We, like many people, love coffee. It’s a staple of our morning routine, whether we’re on a road trip, on a camping adventure, or just hanging out at home.

Of course, there’s a world of variety when it comes to coffee, and not every coffee drink is created equally. When we’re at home it’s easy for us to make a great cup of coffee, but when we’re travelling, it’s not always so simple. And as full-time travel bloggers and photographers, we find ourselves on the road a lot. So finding the best travel coffee maker was something we were keen to do!

Whether you are trying to escape the instant coffee in hotel rooms or the bad diner coffee, trying to fuel your espresso addition in the wilderness, or trying to save money on buying expensive coffee at places like Starbucks, we think that making your own coffee with a portable coffee maker may be the way to go.

You can make your own coffee to your own liking for much less than you’d spend if you bought it from a coffee shop. Making your own coffee can also be a more environmentally friendly option as well.

With this in mind, we wanted to share a list of the best travel coffee makers on the market. With one of these devices, you’ll be able to make great coffee wherever you are in the world – be that on a hiking trip, in an RV, or at a hotel.

As well as our list of the best coffee makers for travel, we’re also going to share everything you need to know when looking to buy a coffee maker. So even if you don’t go for one of our options, you’ll know exactly what to look for when purchasing a travel coffee machine.

Things to Consider When Buying a Portable Coffee Maker for Travel

Before you buy a coffee maker for travel, there are a few things you will want to consider. There’s a huge range of different types of coffee makers on the market, and the style of coffee they make also varies.

So it’s important before you buy that you know what to look out for. Here are some of the key things to consider when shopping for a travel coffee maker.

Brewing Method & Type of Coffee

As you are likely already aware, there are a variety of ways that you can brew coffee. These include French Press style coffee, drip coffee (also known as filter coffee), Turkish style coffee, pour over coffee, and espresso coffee. The latter can be used to make a range of other coffee drinks like Americanos, cappuccinos, and lattes, with the addition of ingredients like hot water or steamed milk.

You probably already have a style of coffee you enjoy, which will come with an associated brewing method. It’s important to pick a travel coffee maker that can make your preferred style of coffee, especially as no one travel coffee maker has the ability to make every type of coffee.

Espresso in particular is more challenging to make on the go, as it requires hot water to be pushed through very fine coffee beans at between 7 and 10 bars of pressure. These types of systems tend to be heavier and more expensive.

The options listed below offer different methods of brewing coffee, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

Dimensions & Weight

This is one of the most important factors when deciding which travel coffee maker is the right choice for you. The first thing you need to consider is the overall size of your luggage, and how much space you are willing to allot to your coffee maker.

Some of the options below have the ability to fold up, while others are lightweight and easily squeezed into the corner of your suitcase or popped in your hand luggage.

On the other hand, some of the coffee makers we mention in this list are much heavier and may only be suitable if you are traveling via car or RV. But they are probably too bulky for air travel.

Deciding on the ideal dimensions and weight all depends on your method of transportation, the size of your luggage, and the weight allowance of the airline you may be travelling with.

Volume of Coffee It Makes

Most travel coffee makers are designed for making quite a small amount of coffee, usually enough for only one or two people. It’s definitely worth checking before you buy to make sure the device you buy will make you enough coffee.

For example, if you are used to drinking a 12 oz mug of coffee every morning, you probably don’t want a system that will only make you 6 oz at a time.

Power Source

Some of the travel coffee makers on the market work by hand, while others require batteries, electric outlets, or solar power. If you are buying something for backwoods camping or boating, the options that work by electricity are not going to be ideal for you.

However, if you are staying in accommodation with access to plugs, you may wish to go for something electric or that can be charged for later use. If it needs to be plugged in, you want to be sure that it works in all the countries you plan to visit – the US for example has a 110v supply, whilst the UK has a 240v supply.

Also consider that most coffee makers require hot water to make coffee. If the coffee maker you buy doesn’t have a way to heat the coffee via a power source, you’re going to need something that will. If you’re camping, you’ll likely have a portable stove or access to a fire to heat water, so this might not be an issue.

Time to Brew Coffee

Sometimes you want a cup of coffee, fast! No fuss, no waiting around, just smooth, flavorful coffee on the go. How much fuss are you willing to go through for your morning cup, and how much time does it take to brew a cup or pot of coffee? This is something to bear in mind when searching for your next travel coffee maker.

All of the machines we mention in this list take varying amounts of time to make a cup, and also differing measures of coffee they can make at once. If you are traveling as a group of 4 or more for example, you may want a different solution than a solo traveler. Always consider the time per cup when calculating how long it takes to brew.

Ease of Cleaning

The last thing you want to worry about while you travel is how you’re going to clean the nooks and crannies of your coffee maker, so we definitely recommend looking into how easy the product is to clean before purchasing.

Some can be cleaned with a simple rinse, while others may have more finicky components that need to be cleaned after use. You will also find that certain coffee makers are dishwasher friendly, which is always an added bonus for when you have access to a dishwasher.

Environmental Impact

We are delighted to see more and more travelers opting for more environmentally friendly and reusable products lately.

In relation to coffee and coffee makers, it’s important to consider that coffee grinds are compostable, while single-use filters or pods might not be. Keep an eye out for recyclable or compostable options, it will do a world of good for the environment!

Additional Features like a Coffee Bean Grinder or Milk Frother

If you are a bit of a coffee connoisseur, you may require additional features to create your perfect cup of coffee, like a whole coffee bean grinder or milk frother . Some coffee makers have these built in, whilst others will require you to purchase additional accessories and add to the weight and cost of your final coffee making setup.

Versatility

Versatility is a big bonus when it comes to travel coffee machines, as you end up getting much more bang for your buck. While most machines only work with one type of coffee, others allow you to use a variety, from whole bean and fine ground, to K cups and instant coffee.

The same can be said for the types of coffee they can produce, for example, espresso, Americano, drip-style, and so on.

Another benefit is if the coffee maker can double up as a coffee mug so that you don’t need to carry both, or if it can also be used for tea, hot chocolate, smoothies, hot soup, or noodles. Some coffee makers even have the ability to keep your drinks cold as well as hot, or to make cold brew coffee as well as hot coffee.

This provides far more value to you in the long run than a regular coffee machine.

Lastly, take into consideration whether or not the product will also be useful in other situations other than just travel. Can you see yourself using it at home, work, hiking, or on a picnic at a local park? The more versatile the coffee maker, the more opportunities you will have to use it.

This isn’t something you usually need to think about when you are purchasing a coffee maker for your home, but if you are planning on taking it on the road, it is going to need to be able to withstand the wear and tear of travel.

Take a look at the key components that ensure long-lasting quality, such as the materials used and the warranty provided. Is it made from plastic vs stainless steel, and are there any extra parts that might be easily breakable?

We’ve searched for the highest quality products for every budget, but only you will know the level of durability required for your next travel adventure, so bear this in mind before you buy.

Prices can vary between USD $5.00 to over $100 depending on the level of functionality and durability that you are searching for. I always recommend seeking the best quality travel coffee maker for your budget. The better the quality, the longer is will last when you’re using it on your travels.

We have searched the internet to find the highest quality products at every price point so that there is something to suit everyone’s budget, as well as of course including our favorite travel coffee makers that we know and love.

Here’s our list of the best travel coffee makers on the market. They cover a wide range of budgets and styles of coffee, and we hope it helps you find the perfect option for your coffee on the go.

They are ordered by approximate price , from lower to higher, although prices do change regularly of course.

Primula Single Serve Coffee Brew Buddy

Designed to brew a single cup of coffee at any strength, the Primula Single Serve Coffee Brew Buddy is the ideal tool for rich and delicious coffee anytime, anywhere.

At just 1.6oz / 45g, it is by far the lightest option on this list as the eco-friendly and reusable lid simply fits on top of most mugs. This makes it extremely handy for travel, especially if you already have a favorite travel coffee mug! Its slim design makes it perfect for storage in a purse, suitcase, canvas bag or backpack.

It was built to accommodate coffee drinkers all over the world, so it can fit onto nearly all cups and mugs. It is also very easy to use, with no power required, all you have to do is pour in hot water, brew and enjoy. Cleaning is hassle free, as the coffee maker is dishwasher safe and doesn’t have any small areas where coffee can get stuck.

Please be aware that the mug is not included with this product, so if you are on the road or camping for the night, you will need to bring your own mug or thermos to use the Primula Brew Buddy.

This is a great option if you want a low cost and easy to use coffee maker which is incredibly portable and lightweight.

Capacity: 18oz / 500ml (limited only by the size of your mug really) Weight: 1.6oz / 45g Type: Pour Over Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Kuissential SlickDrip

Here’s something a little different! The Kuissential SlickDrip features an expanding silicone cone and lets you brew fresh coffee into your own mug or thermos. And then it collapses to under 1-inch high, making it really portable.

All you have to do is set the filter on top of one of your favorite containers, from a wide mouth thermos to a small pot. Then simply add any brand of #4 filter, grounds and hot water and voila – drip coffee just like home.

This coffee maker is small but mighty. It’s designed to be used over a single cup, but you could use it over a flask and make more coffee.

We love that it is so easy to wash with a quick rinse and there is no battery or power required. Although this is one of the more affordable and lightweight (136 g) options on this list, don’t forget that you will need to bring another cup or container for the coffee, and you will need to have access to hot water.

Capacity: 1 cup Weight: 4.8oz / 136g Type: Drip Coffee Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Zyliss Travel French Press Coffee Mug

Sometimes a simple solution is the best, and this travel coffee making mug from Zyliss is just that. This coffee maker allows you to brew coffee and take it on-the-go with one mug. All you have to do is put in the ground coffee, add hot water, and then press the filter to brew fresh coffee. Pop the lid on and off you go with no need to remove the grounds.

The double-wall insulation helps to keep your beverage hot on the go, while the mesh filter keeps grounds firmly pressed and out of your drink. It can also be used for all kinds of beverages as well such as hot chocolate and tea.

Weighing just 7oz / 200g, it is handy for travelers who want to throw it in their bags to drink on the go. No batteries or power required, making it a more affordable option.

While the mug is BPA free and dishwasher friendly, the body of this coffee maker is made from plastic, which means it isn’t quite as eco-friendly and durable as some of the other options on this list.

Capacity: 10oz / 280ml Weight: 7oz / 200g Type: French Press Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon  here

Presto MyJo

If your brew of choice comes in the form of a Keurig K-Cup or compatible reusable pod, the Presto MyJo will let you enjoy it on the go.

Measuring 4.1 x 4.1 x 9 inches and weighing 14oz / 400 grams, this is quite a compact travel coffee maker. To make the coffee, you just insert the K-Cup, add hot water to the reservoir, place it over your favorite travel mug, and pump.

It is very easy to set up, assembling in seconds and it can make 6-, 8-, and 10-ounce servings in less than a minute.

The Kitchen Gizmo is BPA free but not dishwasher safe. and can be taken apart easily for safe storage. You don’t need to worry about power, but you will need to have access to hot water. Last but not least, it includes a 1-year warranty, so if you have any problems, they will replace it free of charge.

Capacity: 10oz / 280ml Weight: 14oz / 400g Type: Keurig K-cups Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Coffee Gator

We’re big fans of the Coffee Gator motto “Bring the coffee house home”. They created the Coffee Gator Thermal Travel Cup with the aim of being able to make and drink incredible, barista-quality coffee at home or on the go.

The focus with this travel coffee maker is on high quality components. In their words, “Inferior metal makes drinks taste like licking a battery” and we couldn’t agree more. Which is why this is made from military grade stainless steel.

The dual layers of premium stainless steel create a vacuum that reduces heat transfer, so you are guaranteed the perfect temperature coffee for longer. In fact, it keeps coffee hot for 6 hours, or cold for 20 hours.

It comes with a stainless-steel filter for making pour over coffee, and it doubles up as a stylish insulated travel coffee mug too.

When used with the pour over system it can make 12oz / 340ml of coffee, whilst the cup on its own can hold 20oz / 568ml. Enough to wake anyone up we think!

The lid slips on and off in a flash, rinses in seconds, and is dishwasher safe. The icing on top of the cake is their total satisfaction promise, which covers everything they sell (they had nearly 10,000 positive reviews last year).

We travel with this coffee system and we also use this at home for a quick cup. It makes a great travel coffee mug in general, and it makes good coffee quickly and easily. We’d say it’s between this and the AeroPress Go for us in terms of our favorite travel coffee options.

Capacity: 12oz / 340ml Weight: 10oz / 400g Type: Pour over Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

JoGo CoffeeStraw

If portability is a critical factor in your decision making, then you should definitely consider the JoGo CoffeeStraw.

This innovative little device is basically a cross between a metal straw and a French Press. At one end of the stainless steel straw you’ll find a BPA free heat regulated silicone tip for drinking through. At the other end is a fine micron-mesh filter made from stainless steel.

Using the straw couldn’t be simpler. Just add ground coffee to any cup, pour in hot water, then wait a couple of minutes for it to steep (and the water to cool down!). Once brewed, you just drink through the straw. As you drink the coffee passes through the filter, giving you a coffee that is similar in style to a French Press.

Obviously, there is no pressure involved in the extraction, so the coffee produced isn’t espresso style. However, we find it to produce very tasty and smooth coffee, and it is incredibly easy to use. It’s also very small and lightweight.

In terms of cleaning, the filter unscrews for easy rinsing. The straw also comes with a bottle cleaner style brush so you can clean the inside, and it is also dishwasher safe.

The other good thing about this straw is that its use is not just restricted to coffee. You can also use it for loose leaf tea, fresh juice with seeds, or any other drink where you want to use a more environmentally friendly straw. It can also be used to drink cold brew coffee.

Of course, there are some drawbacks. You need to supply your own hot water and mug, and there’s no way to control the brew strength other than by adjusting the initial amount of coffee. As the coffee grounds (or tea leaves) stay in the mug, it will continue to brew as you drink.

We haven’t found this to be a problem, but if you are someone who likes to savour a cup over a prolonged time this is something to consider. The best option is to try and drink it consistently rather than slowly as otherwise the drink may become bitter or over brewed.

From an environmental perspective it saves on plastic straws as well as paper filters and single use coffee pods. It’s a unique product, and definitely one to consider for ultra-portable coffee making on the go!

Capacity: 1 cup Weight: 1oz / 23g Type: French Press Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here and direct from JoGo here .

GROSCHE Milano Moka Pot

When I travelled across Australia for a year, primarily camping out of my four-wheel drive vehicle in remote locations, my coffee maker of choice was a Moka Pot.

This is one of the most popular ways to make coffee at home in Italy. Basically, it’s a metal pot with two parts. – the hot water goes in the bottom container below the ground coffee, and you place it directly on a heat source like a stove top or gas burner. The water boils and is pushed through the coffee grounds and up into the upper pot.

Moka pots make espresso style coffee quickly and easily. The model we’ve chosen is available in 1, 3, 6 and 9 cup sizes, so you can brew from 1.5oz up to 15.2oz of coffee depending on your preferences.  You can either drink this as espresso, or use it as the base for longer drinks like an Americano or latte.

At 1.35lbs / 612g this isn’t the lightest coffee maker in our list, but it is definitely a durable and easy to use option. Just be aware it’s not dishwasher safe.

Capacity: 10oz / 295ml Weight: 1.8lb / 612g Type: espresso Requires power? No, just a heat source Requires hot water? No Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Stanley Camp Pour Over Coffee Set

Stanley are well known for their all-steel vacuum flask which they have been making since 1913. However, they also make a number of other camp and travel focused products, including some portable coffee makers.

We’re recommending the Stanley Camp Pour Over Coffee Set, which comes, as the name suggests, as a set with a cup and a stainless steel pour over filter.

You can also buy just the pour over part of the set if you already have a mug or cup you want to use.

The pour over filter and mug are both made from 18/8 stainless steel and is BPA free. It’s also dishwasher safe. The mug itself has a drink-through lid as well as double-wall vacuum insulation which can keep your drink hot for up to 1.5hours.

The mug has a capacity of 12oz and the pour over filter has a capacity of 20oz. The pour over has a built-in easy clean stainless-steel filter, so you don’t need any disposable filters.

It’s a very solid and sturdy device which is built to withstand the rigors of a camping trip. It also has an excellent guarantee. Just be aware that it is a little heavy due to the solid build.

Stanley also make a range of other products , including a portable French Press . Definitely worth checking out if you want a sturdy, well-made solution for your travel coffee needs.

Capacity: 12oz / 340ml (mug) Weight: 9.6oz / 272g (filter), 11.2oz / 317g (mug) Type: Pour over Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

AeroPress Espresso & Coffee Maker

If you are looking for something quick and simple that brews smooth ground-free coffee every time, this AeroPress might be a fantastic option for you. AeroPress basically created a new type of portable coffee extraction method, known as the AeroPress brewing system.

The AeroPress brewing system results in uniform extraction for a full coffee flavor. It includes a micro filter for grit free coffee and guarantees a 20 second ‘press time’ – just add your coffee and water. The end result is up to an 8oz coffee drink which is similar to but not quite as strong as espresso, to which you can add water to create a 10 oz sized Americano if you wish.

The AeroPress kit comes with 350 disposable filters, a scoop, funnel and stirrer. However, we recommend picking up a metal filter instead of the disposable filters so you don’t have to bring loads of filters with you when you travel, and also to avoid waste. You might also consider the flow control filter cap for more brewing control.

An added bonus is that there are no fiddly parts that are hard to get to when washing, so the cleanup is relatively simple. That said, in our experience no coffee system is ever that easy to clean as coffee grinds have a habit of getting everywhere!

The AeroPress also comes with a tote bag to keep your coffee maker tucked away neat and tidy on your travels.

Overall, this is a relatively lightweight and portable system that makes great coffee, and which is perfect for throwing in your backpack for your next camping trip or holiday. It’s designed to be simple to use, and you don’t have to worry about grind size or getting coffee grit in your finished drink, plus you can make both espresso style coffee and Americano style coffee by just adding hot water.

We have a complete AeroPress review if you’d like to learn more, which also compares the original against the AeroPress Go, so you can decide which might suit your needs better.

In addition, if you’re looking for a coffee maker made in the USA, then this is a great option, as AeroPress manufacturers all their coffee systems in the United States. As an aside, if you’re looking for more US made products, check out our guide to the best gifts made in the USA .

Capacity: 10oz / 296ml Weight: 8oz / 226g Type: AeroPress Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon  here

AeroPress Go

AeroPress also make the AeroPress Go . This has the same brewing system as the original, but it includes a 15oz (444ml) cup which fits all the accessories when not in use, and is slightly more compact. We have one of these and love it for the coffee it produces as well as for how portable it is.

It also comes with 350 disposable filters, but we’d recommend picking up a metal filter instead of the disposable filters so you don’t have to bring loads of filters with you when you travel, and also to avoid waste. You also get a coffee scoop.

It is obviously slightly heavier overall than the original AeroPress because of the mug, and it can only brew 8oz instead of 10oz as it’s slightly smaller. Otherwise you’re going to get the same great coffee.

The AeroPress Go is one of our most recommended systems for travelers, especially for campers and hikers where weight and simple cleaning is important – we’ve enjoyed it when exploring the outdoors of Scotland. See our complete AeroPress review for more on our experiences using this when traveling.

Capacity: 8oz / 220ml Weight: 11.2oz / 317g Type: AeroPress Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Soulhand 5 in 1 Electric Coffee Maker & Grinder

If you are a bit of a coffee connoisseur, you probably like to do everything yourself, including grinding your beans. From a travel perspective, whole bean coffee usually stays fresher than ground coffee, so having a way to grind your beans on demand makes logical travel sense too.

This travel coffee maker from Soulhand takes on-the-go coffee making to the next level. You can grind your own beans with the built-in battery powered electric burr grinder. Then, you just add hot water and allow the coffee to pour through the reusable stainless steel filter dripper into the insulated thermos mug.

The grinder is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery which holds enough charge to do 7 – 8 grinds. It’s chargeable by USB, meaning you can use a wide variety of chargers to top it off. A full charge takes around 3 hours.

It measures 11.1 x 4.7 x 4.7 inches, which is compact enough to travel with. The cup will also fit in most car cup holders for your next road trip.

This high-quality coffee maker and cup has a handy split design, making the cleaning process simple and quick. You can also use it with ground coffee of course if you prefer.

Capacity: 10.5oz / 300ml Weight: 27.5oz / 780g Type: Drip coffee Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Chulux travel coffee maker 

Although this travel coffee maker is one of the heaviest on our list, weighing 2.2lbs / 1kg, we wanted to include it for those of you wanting coffee when traveling via car or RV. Despite the weight, it’s still fairly compact.

It’s a single cup design which fits most coffee capsules, or you can use your own ground coffee, so you have plenty of options to make drip coffee. It’s quite similar to the drip coffee makers you find in many hotel rooms across the world.

The Chulux travel coffee maker includes a 12oz / 340ml water tank and a removable drip tray, which ensures that your daily coffee demand is met, mess free. It’s also quite quick, producing a 12oz cup of coffee in around 3 minutes, and it has an automatic shut off function after brewing for safety.

Cleaning is simple, with a quick wipe of the coffee outlets, and the detachable accessories are dishwasher safe. However you may find that you need to use a small sharp item such as a paper clip to really clear out the outlets every now and again for longer lasting maintenance. It is also easy to clean and store. It supports standard sized or larger cups (up to 5.3“ tall), and you can adjust the drip tray to fit your cup.

To top it off, the product comes with quality assurance and a one year warranty. It is also made from BPA-free material and it is UL & FDA certified, for safety guaranteed.

Capacity: 12oz / 340ml Weight: 2.2lbs/ 1kg Type: Drip coffee Requires power? Yes Requires hot water? No Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Bodum Travel Press

This French Press travel coffee maker allows you to brew coffee on the go and drink from the same container when it’s ready to go. It couldn’t be more simple to use, simply add your ground coffee and hot water and seal the lid for a delicious, freshly pressed cup in just 4 minutes.

The body is made of vacuum-sealed, double-wall construction stainless steel, keeping your beverages hot or cold for several hours. It also features a spill resistant lid, built-in plunger and silicone, non-slip grip for easy use on the go.

The travel mug itself without the press can hold 15oz / 420ml of coffee, however when you use it to brew coffee the grounds take up some of the space so expect around a 12oz / 340ml serving. It is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. It weighs 14.4 oz / 410grams, but if you are looking for something a little smaller and lighter, you can always opt for the smaller version which weighs just 8.8oz / 250 grams.

For those that prefer loose leaf tea, the Bodum Travel Press works equally as well for brewing a cuppa, giving it extra points for versatility!

Capacity: 12oz / 340ml Weight: 14.4oz / 410g Type: French Press Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon  here

Wacaco Portable Espresso Maker

Famous among the hiking community, the Wacaco Portable Espresso Maker is designed to be the smallest, lightest and most versatile handheld espresso machine. Space and weight are major factors when selecting the right travel coffee maker and this model is portable, compact and functional!

With its innovative design, the Minipresso is easy to use, with no battery or electric power needed. You just need to add ground coffee and hot water. For a shorter trip you can even add boiling water to its tank so you don’t need to worry about heating it up while you’re out.

With the help of the semi-automatic piston, the water is pushed through the coffee at 8 bars, and after just a few pushes, your espresso is ready to be extracted. Water tanks of different capacities are also available so you can enjoy multiple espresso types, ranging from ristretto to caffè lungo.

Considering the body of the machine is made from stainless steel, it isn’t very heavy, weighing just 360g. A quick simple wash will do wonders, but keep an eye on the indentations in the filter chamber to ensure that it continues to seal nice and tight.

You can buy it from Amazon, as well as directly from Wacaco here . It’s worth checking out the Wacaco website as they have a number of other products you might like too.

Capacity: 1.76oz / 50ml Weight: 12.7oz / 360g Type: Espresso Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

CONQUECO Portable Espresso Machine

The Conqueco Portable Espresso machine is a one-stop-shop for coffee on the go, with support for Nespresso pods and L’OR capsules. It’s also one of the few options on the market that has a built in battery which allows you to heat your water on the go – although this can take a while, so using pre-heated water is quicker.

Operated by a rechargeable lithium battery, this machine can heat water up to 194F/90C and the coffee it produces is at 158F/70C. You will need to use the supplied car or wall adapter to charge the battery pack prior to use.

If you use the built-in battery to heat the water from room temperature, it will be able to make three cups of espresso. If you use preheated water, it can make 200 cups!

With a 50 ml water tank capacity, you can create a standard 40-45ml single espresso shot very quickly from hot water – in seconds in fact. The 15 bar high-pressure pump helps to unlock the delicate flavor and premium aromas of your coffee capsule during the brewing process. Once you are done, it has a self-cleaning process.

With all of this functionality, it is understandable that this option is higher up on the scale in terms of weight, coming in at 31oz / 880g. It is also important to note that this coffee maker was designed and tested for Nespresso capsules only, so it does not work with Nespresso compatible capsules or ground coffee.

Capacity: 1.6oz / 45ml Weight: 31oz / 880g Type: Nespresso pods Requires power?  No, except to charge Requires hot water? No, but can be used with hot water if available Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Bripe – Coffee Brew Pipe Kit

If you’re looking for something a bit different for your coffee making needs, then check out the Bripe Coffee Brew Pipe. As the name suggests this is kind of like a drinking pipe for coffee lovers.

The “bowl” of the pipe serves as the brewing and heating area, whilst the stem is where the coffee is filtered as you drink it. The kit includes a quad-jet torch which you can use to heat the water in the bowl of the pipe before you suck it through the stem, meaning you don’t need to worry about power.

There’s also a thermometer so you can check the water temperature is perfect for your brew, and the filter is stainless steel and reusable. The only waste is the ground coffee. In terms of brew time, you’re generally looking at around a minute to heat the water up, and a couple more minutes for it to cool down to a drinkable temperature.

It makes around 2oz of coffee at a time, and only weighs 337g. It’s definitely a unique portable coffee making device!

Capacity: 2oz / 57ml Weight: 11.9oz / 337g Type: Coffee pipe Requires power?  No Requires hot water? No, but can be used with hot water if available Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Handpresso Wild Hybrid

This simple, lightweight and elegant travel coffee maker is the latest portable espresso maker from Handpresso. You can use the Wild Hybrid with either E.S.E. pods or ground espresso coffee.

This espresso maker works a bit like a bicycle pump. To use, you generate up to 16-bars of pressure with the hand pump, add hot water (from a kettle or a thermo flask), espresso coffee (ground coffee or E.S.E. pods), and then let the machine prepare high quality espresso with the push of a button! As it’s hand operated there’s no battery or electricity required: making this a great option for espresso in the back country. It’s also relatively lightweight at 17oz / 480g.

This compact travel option can also come as part of a beautiful outdoor kit , which is the perfect gift for any coffee lover in your life. Complete with a hard travel case for ultimate protection, 4 unbreakable cups and a new thermo flask with integrated thermometer.

Capacity: 1.76oz / 50ml Weight: 17oz / 480g Type: e spresso Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Pakt Coffee Kit

The Pakt Coffee Kit aims to provide nearly everything you need to create coffee on a go, in a portable and travel friendly package.

The device includes an electric kettle with dual voltage support for worldwide travel, a 12oz double walled stainless steel travel mug with lid, a stainless-steel reusable mesh filter, a coffee ground scooper and storage for your ground coffee. All of these elements pack away neatly inside the kettle element for easy travel, and it comes with a neat travel sleeve to keep it all safe. It also all comes in planet friendly plastic-free packaging.

You will need access to power to heat the water up obviously, or hot water if you just want to use the pour over filter and cup.

The only real downsides are the weight, as this is quite heavy for a travel item, although it is reassuringly solid and well built. It’s also at a fairly premium price point.

Capacity: 12oz / 340ml Weight: 3.76lbz / 1.7kg Type: pour over / filter Requires power? Yes Requires hot water? No Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Uniterra Nomad Espresso Machine

Although this coffee maker is the heaviest option on this list (2.6lbs/1.18 kg), it is famous among the travel community for its innovation and spectacular tasting coffee! With optimized pressure, flow and temperature characteristics the Nomad produces a full rich crema that rivals even the best commercial machines.

Here’s how it works; The seesaw motion of the small lever operates two tiny piston water pumps, building up pressure over a few strokes. That means you have got the ideal 8 to 10 bars of brewing pressure at your fingertips. You can pull a perfect shot each and every time with the help of the True Crema Valve.

You can adjust the pumping speed to produce optimal brewing pressure, giving you total control. It functions like a true lever machine while simplifying the operation and increasing the success rate of what’s involved in pulling a shot of great espresso.

This travel coffee maker is outdoor and environmentally friendly and it produces minimum waste. You will need to carry your own mug though, so bear in mind that this travel coffee maker might be more suitable for road trips and for making coffee in an RV rather than for air travel and extended back country trips, as the weight is quite high.

Capacity: 10oz / 300ml Weight: 2.6lbs/1.18 kg Type: Espresso Requires power? No Requires hot water? Yes Price: Check latest price on Amazon here

Which Travel Coffee Maker Would You Recommend?

The answer to this will vary depending on your preference for coffee style. For us, we think that the AeroPress Go or Coffee Gator pour over travel cup are our favourite options. They’re both relatively inexpensive, easy to use, portable, and easy to clean. They also make great coffee!

If price and portability are your main criteria, then check out the Primula Single Serve Coffee Brew Buddy or JoGo CoffeeStraw . The latter in particular is super easy to use and only weighs an ounce!

If you absolutely must have espresso coffee on the go, then the Wacaco espresso maker is an excellent choice.

You can see the majority of the portable coffee makers and accessories in one place on Amazon here for easy comparison.

Coffee Accessories for Travel

Now you have your coffee maker all figured out, you might need some accessories to go with it. Your needs will vary depending on the coffee maker you purchase, but here are some options to consider.

Travel Coffee Mug: Contigo Stainless Steel Travel Mug

The Contigo is the ideal travel flask to keep your coffee hot while you enjoy your travels. The body is made from stainless steel for maximum durability, while the silicone band adds extra comfort while holding.

It can hold up to 16oz / 450 ml, which I think is more than enough to keep you going on your next adventure. It also includes a clever lid technology to ensure that the product is leak-proof for on-the-go activities and it can keep your drinks hot up to 5 hours or cold up to 12 with vacuum insulation.

If you are planning on taking a road trip, the Contigo travel mug fits most car cup holders. In terms of washing, the lid is dishwasher-safe, however the body is hand-wash-only.

Travel Coffee Grinder: JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder

Finding the perfect coffee grinder is no easy task. If you want the perfect cup of coffee, you need high quality materials, durability, and functionality in one.

Thankfully the JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder is built to last, featuring a stainless steel body, a durable ceramic burr, and an adjustable grind selector for optimal results. This portable coffee grinder can be used anywhere, be it hiking, camping, backpacking or out on the open road.

It features a built-in adjustable grind selector so you can fine-tune it to get the coarseness you want.

Travel Milk Frother: Café Casa Milk Frother

This lightweight, hand-held, battery-operated device is designed specifically to produce perfect frothy milk in 15 seconds or less. It can be used to froth all types of milk, including cow, soya, rice, almond, coconut, UHT, and powdered milk, so you are guaranteed smooth, frothy coffee no matter what your taste.

The head and shaft are both made from robust stainless steel. It is also easy to clean and maintain.

Travel Sized Kettle: Travel Foldable Electric Kettle

Travel coffee mugs aren’t the only foldable products on the market these days, now you can get collapsible kettles! This travel kettle provides readily accessible hot water on any continent, with support for both the US 110v standard and the European 240v standard.

It is perfectly safe to use, with boil dry protection, and a sturdy lid lock to ensure scorch-free usage, while the concealed heating element eliminates those rusty metal coils.

Travel Water Heater

If you would like a way to heat water but don’t want to carry a whole kettle, consider an immersion heater. These basically take the heating element from a kettle, which you them immerse into the water you are heating up.

The one we recommend is designed for travel, and supports both 120v and 240v supplies, making it ideal for world travel. It’s small and compact, and all you need is a power outlet and something like a mug for heating.

When using a device like this it is obviously important to carefully read and follow the directions for safety.

There’s no use having all of this equipment if you don’t have any actual coffee! There’s a huge range of coffee available today from all around the world, which comes in different formats depending on your requirements.

We recommend checking what type of coffee your coffee maker manufacturer recommends. Usually there will be a specific grind size for your coffee maker, or if it takes pods, a specific type of pod it is compatible with. Here are some quick links to different types of coffee to get you started:

• Ground Coffee
• Coffee Pods
• Whole Coffee Beans

Finally, don’t discount instant coffee for those situations where you just don’t have any alternatives. We’ve had good results with the Starbucks Via range when road tripping and hiking – they are really lightweight, the coffee is good, and they even dissolve in cold water if you don’t have a stove or other heat source. Some of the Via range is specifically designed to make cold brew coffee.

Further Reading

We also have a number of other relevant posts that we think you will find useful for travel planning.

• We have a detailed review of the AeroPress and AeroPress Go coffee system
• We have a guide to the best travel shoes for men , and the best travel shoes for women
• If you’re looking for packing tips, see our guides to what to pack for a ski trip ,  what to pack for Iceland ,  what to pack for London , and  what to pack for winter in Finland  to get started.
• For gift ideas, see our guide to  what to buy for photographers ,  travel themed home decor items , and our  ultimate gift guide for travelers .
• Just because you have your own travel coffee maker doesn’t mean you should skip out on trying great cafes when you travel. See our guide to the best cafes in Rome as a starting point.
• We also have lots of travel posts to help inspire and help you plan your next trip! These include our guide to the  world’s best road trips , our guide to  getting online when travelling , our  guide to picking a travel router  and more
• We have reviewed many other travel related products you might find useful. Check out our guide to the best travel routers , best travel cameras and best travel wraps to get started!

And that’s it for our guide to the best travel coffee makers! As always, we’re happy to hear your feedback and questions! Just pop them in the comments below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 14 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Rolando Ajata says

20th October 2023 at 5:28 pm

Thank you very much for this compilation. I use the following alternatives for field trips: 1) Staresso portable coffee maker to prepare espresso; 2) PRESSE by Bobble French Coffee Press by Gamila Company; 3) Rivers brand reversible silicone coffee dripper cave. Greetings from the North of Chile.

Laurence Norah says

22nd October 2023 at 3:34 pm

Thanks for sharing your favorite products Rolando 🙂 Enjoy your coffee on the go!

17th January 2023 at 5:05 pm

When we travel, I use a small, cheap Black& Decker 5 cup drip coffee machine. I have found it even easier than a French press + cleaner is better.

19th January 2023 at 1:37 pm

Thanks for your input Fred, glad to hear your device works well for you and I hope your tip helps others as well!

Brenda says

8th July 2022 at 11:35 pm

Enjoyed travel coffee review. Will research your suggestions.

9th July 2022 at 9:52 am

Thanks Brenda!

Kathleen says

4th April 2021 at 7:55 pm

Have you tried (and have comments on) the ESPRO Ultralight Travel Coffee Press?

5th April 2021 at 11:42 am

Hi Kathleen – I haven’t tried it and so don’t have personal experience. It has largely positive reviews and running the brand through Fakespot the reviews also appear genuine. So if you are after a French press style mug coffee maker it certainly looks like a good option. If you do purchase it I’d be happy to hear your opinion!

Dada Vai says

27th August 2020 at 6:06 am

Great article, Coffee Gator is my best choice in your article, I found a lot of information. Which one do you recommend for the best Coffee Gator and Bodum Travel Press? Thanks for sharing such an informative article. Hopefully, waiting for your more article in the future.

27th August 2020 at 12:13 pm

Thanks very much! If you want a French Press style coffee maker, and like Coffee Gator, then you’ll want the Coffee Gator French Press 🙂

7th July 2020 at 7:06 pm

Great info about the travel coffee machines. Thank you for sharing this article.

8th July 2020 at 12:25 pm

My pleasure, thanks for reading and leaving a comment 🙂

Juliette Mason says

29th April 2020 at 9:55 pm

Hi there, great review of travel coffee makers. Do you know if the moka pot you recommend would work on a camp stove induction burner? Thanx!

29th April 2020 at 10:12 pm

Hi Juliette,

Thanks very much! According to the manufacturer it should work on an induction stove. There are some reviews suggesting it doesn’t, but the manufacturer says that that was an older model, and the new version which is on sale now is induction compatible. I have a number of CoffeeGator products, and they have always been very quick to respond to any questions when I’ve messaged them, so I would say that if for some reason it doesn’t work for you, I am sure they would help out 🙂

Let me know how it goes if you decide to go for it 🙂

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Home » Gear » The Best Travel Coffee Makers • TESTED IN 2024

The Best Travel Coffee Makers • TESTED IN 2024

But first, coffee.

Does this saying ring true for you? If yes, then an awesome travel coffee maker is the best purchase a caffeine-loving nomad like you could make. Not only will a portable coffee maker save you money by letting you ditch your dependence on café-purchased coffee drinks, but you can be sure to always have a cup of joe within reach even in the most isolated of destinations.

I personally never travel (if I can help it) without some sort of coffee making device.

So if you’re in the market for the perfect portable coffee maker – whether you’re an espresso, press, or drip brew enthusiast – you’ll get all the information you need with this ultimate guide to finding the best coffee makers for travel that meets your needs and budget.

Let’s talk coffee…

Quick Answer: These are the Best Travel Coffee Makers of 2024

#1 – overall best travel coffee maker, #2 – most portable travel coffee maker, #3 – best travel coffee maker for a single cup, #4 – best portable coffee maker for large groups, #5 – best portable coffee maker for solo travel, #6 – best travel coffee maker for espresso lovers, #7 – best travel coffee maker for a jetboil, #8 – best portable coffee maker for backpackers, #9 – best car camping french press, #10 – best travel coffee maker for commuters, how to choose the best travel coffee maker, faq about the best travel coffee makers, final thoughts on the best travel coffee makers.

• Overall Best Travel Coffee Maker – GSI Outdoors Java Press
• Best Lightweight Travel Coffee Maker – Sea to Summit X-Brew Coffee Dripper
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for a Single Cup – AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for a Large Groups – GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel 14-Cup Percolator
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for Solo Travel – AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for Espresso Lovers – GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Set
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for a Jetboil – Jetboil Grande Silicone Coffee Press
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for Backpackers – GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip Coffee Maker
• Best Car Camping French Press – Snow Peak Titanium French Press
• Best Travel Coffee Maker for Commuters – GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press

GSI Outdoors Java Press

• > Mug-within-a-mug construction
• > Spill-resistant lid

Sea to Summit X-Brew Coffee Dripper

• > Collapsible
• > Eco-friendly

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

• > Versatile and convenient
• > 350 paper micro-filters

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel 14-Cup Percolator

• > Made of high-grade stainless steel
• > Up to 14 x 8 oz. cups of coffee
• > Weighing only 11.5 ounces
• > Has a drinking cup built

GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Set

• > Lightweight
• > Double-wall stainless-cup

Jetboil Grande Silicone Coffee Press

• > Compatible with Jetboil MiniMo, SUMO and SUMO TI
• > Improved silicone ring

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip Coffee Maker

• > Drip cone with legs

Snow Peak Titanium French Press

• > High-quality stainless steel coffee press
• > Weighing 6.3 ounces

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press

• > No need for a plunger
• > Flip-top, spill-resistant lid

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GSI Outdoors Java Press is our top pick for the best travel coffee maker

• Liquid capacity: 30 fl.oz.
• Best Use: Camping
• Style: French Press
• Weight: 10.3 oz.

We love this thing! In fact, Epic Backpacker Tours (a TBB partner company) uses these for our group tours. It’s not the smallest unit, but it makes consistently delicious fresh-brewed coffee that you can count on to get your day started right.

The GSI has a silicone-ringed plunger and double-walled construction that not only keep your brew hot during and after brewing but also makes for a very durable java press. It’s perfect as an everyday coffee maker for digital nomads or for long camping trips. Getting your coffee fix – and having enough to share with friends – has never been easier with this epic coffee maker for travel.

• Large enough to serve 2-4 people
• Press mechanism produces very little coffee silt
• Too bulky for shorter backpacking trips

The best portable coffee maker on our list is Sea to Summit X-Brew Coffee Dripper

• Best use: Backpacking
• Style: Drip
• Weight: 4 oz
• Volume: 16.2 fluid oz.
• Materials: Food-grade silicone/nylon/stainless steel

Collapsible, eco-friendly, light, economical…just about everything a java lover needs for the trails. While not ideal for brewing coffee for a whole group, you can count on a tall, 2-cup brew just by using coffee grounds and hot water.

Another plus is that it’s made from food-grade silicone and has a reusable stainless steel double-mesh filter so there’s no need for paper filters – less to carry, less waste. It fits comfortably on most mugs and wider water bottles for enjoying warm coffee on-the-go. 

Sometimes the best travel coffee makers are the simplest.

This unit is perfect for ultralight backpacking .

• Lightweight and minimally designed for maximum utility
• No paper waste
• Budget-friendly
• Does not work well with very fine coffee grounds

Top pick for the best coffee maker for a single cup is AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

• Liquid capacity: 8 fl.oz.
• Weight: 11.5 oz.

You’ll love how versatile and convenient this travel coffee maker is. It effortlessly brews a delicious cup of espresso, cold-brew or American style coffee. Not only that, but it’s designed as an all-in-one mug and carrying case that makes it ideal for efficient portability. 

Filters are needed; 350 paper micro-filters are included. This makes it easy to use and clean. All you need is some hot water and within 1-2 minutes, you have a delicious cup of coffee to kickstart your morning.

To have the freshest coffee possible, we also recommend purchasing the GSI Outdoors JavaGrind to go with the AeroPress . The java mill features an adjustable and lightweight conical burr grinder that packs down easily and lets you have a high-quality cup of coffee every time. It’s the ultimate travel coffee power duo for one!

• Easy to clean
• Built-in drinking cup
• Portable and lightweight
• Not enough for those that want more than 8 oz at once

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel 14-Cup Percolator is one of the best travel coffee maker for a large groups

• Liquid capacity: 112 fl.oz.
• Style: Percolator
• Weight: 2 lbs. 2 oz.

Made of high-grade stainless steel, this durable coffee maker is perfect for brewing a perfect cup of joe for every member of your camping posse. It’s designed to be used on a camping stove or hung over a campfire for a delicious pot of coffee every time.

The GSI Outdoors Percolator will brew up to 14 x 8 oz. cups of coffee to accommodate the caffeine needs of a large group of super-sized needs of a smaller group all in one batch. Because of its larger size, it’s preferred by trailer campers or for campers who take longer trips and are used to hauling plenty of equipment. 

• Sturdy stainless steel design will last a long time
• Glass knob lets you assess the coffee’s strength
• Doesn’t fit stably on all camping stoves

Meet the best travel coffee maker for solo travel: AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

As a solo traveler, going to a cafe for your morning cup of coffee can be a regular part of your travel schedule. But, if you’re camping in a remote location or just maximizing the idea of solo time, a Go Travel Press is the perfect solution for getting your coffee fix – anywhere, any time.

Weighing only 11.5 ounces, it’s a breeze to pack away and to make one of your travel gear essentials. And no need to take up extra packing space with a mug because the AeroPress has a drinking cup built-in that also serves as a carrying case. Just add hot water to coffee grounds, drink, and go. Cleaning requires just taking out the filter and a quick rinse – it’s a solo travelers’ coffee dream! 

The Aeropress is a staple in the Digital Nomads’ tool kit.

• Very portable and lightweight
• Built-in drinking cup/carrying case
• Limited to brewing 8 oz of coffee in one batch

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Our top pick for best travel coffee maker for espresso lovers is GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Set

• Liquid capacity: 2.5 fl.oz.
• Style: Espresso
• Weight: 11 oz.

If you’re all about espresso for your caffeine fix, the GSI mini espresso set is a godsend for travel. Lightweight, portable, and easy to use, this little travel kit includes everything you need for the perfect serving of espresso.

The stainless-steel, mini stove-top espresso maker includes a double-wall stainless-cup that makes an on-the-go coffee supply that much easier. Want your espresso pronto? All it takes is 90 seconds to have a 2.5oz double shot ready to go. Rinse, disassemble and pack up into its compact case – it’s that easy.

• Ultra-lightweight and portable
• Cup and espresso maker parts disassemble and fit into a compact carrying case
• Made of durable stainless steel
• Limited to brewing just one 2.5 oz of espresso in one batch

Jetboil Grande Silicone Coffee Press is one of the best travel coffee maker for a jetboil

• Best Use: Backpacking
• Weight: 1.5 oz.

If you have a Jetboil and want the option to brew the best coffee possible while traveling, take a look at the Jetboil Grande coffee press. This press is compatible with Jetboil MiniMo, SUMO and SUMO TI cooking systems. 

Go ahead and ditch the instant coffee and give yourself the luxury of fresh ground coffee no matter where you are. With the improved silicone ring that makes for a secure fit, keep coffee grounds out and enjoy a flawless cup of brewed coffee. 

Learn More: Jetboil Flash review

• Detachable stem and basket for compact packing
• Easy clean up
• Less residue than previous version
• Only works with Jetboil

Our pick for the best travel coffee maker for backpackers is GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip Coffee Maker

• Weight: 0.4 oz.

When it comes to coffee-making essential simplicity, it doesn’t get more minimal than this. The GSI java drip is simply a drip cone with legs that clips onto any mug of your choosing (mug is not included). If you’re willing to carry some coffee grounds in your pack, this near-weightless coffee maker is the best way to get a fresh cup of brew on the trails, no matter how remote you are.

The GSI Outdoors Ultralight is the perfect solution if all you’re looking for is an inexpensive, portable way to make a good cup of coffee in the morning. If instant coffee doesn’t quite cut it for you, give this setup a try for your next backpacking venture. You won’t be disappointed.

• Doesn’t require a filter
• Packs down flat for ultimate portability
• Can work with most mugs and wide-mouth bottles or flasks
• Inexpensive
• Drip process can be slow
• Plastic and not ultra-sturdy/durable

The best car camping french press is Snow Peak Titanium French Press

• Liquid capacity: 24 fl.oz.
• Weight: 6.3 oz.

The Snow Peak French Press is a portable french press coffee maker. Its the the way to go if you’re looking for a high-quality stainless steel coffee press that’s neither too big nor too small while being lightweight and easy to use. You’ll be sure to get 24 ounces of hot, great-tasting coffee every time. Say goodbye to instant coffee and wasteful paper filters.

Weighing 6.3 ounces, it’s heavier than most solo-cup portable coffee makers but is plenty compact and lightweight for most camping trips. It’s perfect for car camping stoves and will deliver the fresh brew taste you crave on the road.

• Compact stainless steel design
• Includes pot, lid, plunger, and carrying bag
• Works better by pouring hot water into versus boiling water directly into the pot

GSI Outdoors Java Press is our pick for the best travel coffee maker for commuters

• Liquid capacity: 15 fl.oz.
• Best Use: Commuting
• Weight: 9.6 oz.

If a coffee maker that fits into your cup holder sounds ideal to you, the GSI Commuter java press is for you. Simply use 2oz of ground coffee, add 8oz hot water, wait a few short minutes, push the press, and – voilà – you have hot, freshly-brewed coffee to go!

No need for a plunger like you’d find in traditional java press coffee makers – its mug-within-a-mug construction allows for a press-and-drink process that makes caffeination while commuting a breeze. The flip-top, spill-resistant lid makes it even more commuter-friendly. 

• Get a double serving of coffee in one container
• Neoprene sleeve keeps coffee warm and provides insulation for easy holding
• Non-slip base for stability and narrow enough for car cup holders
• Too heavy for easy packing

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

We’ve provided the above travel coffee maker reviews to help you in your search for the perfect coffee maker, but if you want to keep shopping around, here are some things to know and pointers on how to choose the best travel coffee maker. 

The first question to ask yourself is: how much coffee do I need? Second question: how many people do I need to provide coffee for? If you’re a solo traveler, getting a large travel coffee maker likely isn’t necessary. If you’re traveling in a big group – and everyone wants to enjoy their cup of coffee at relatively the same time – a small coffee maker won’t cut it. Brewing multiple batches to accommodate everyone will quickly become cumbersome and annoying.

Consider not just the size of the coffee maker itself but also the brewing capacity and weight. Obviously, the larger the contraption, the more it will weigh and the bulkier it will be to pack away. For a backpacker, this weight and space make a considerable difference. Whereas, for car camping, the weight of a medium-to-large travel coffee maker that has greater brewing capacity won’t be as big of a deterrent. 

When choosing the best travel coffee maker for you, it’s important to consider how picky you are about the taste and quality of your coffee. Drip units, espresso makers and French press produce a cup of coffee that tastes different – even if you use the same type of coffee. The quality of the beans matter too, but not all coffee makers yield the same results.

Typically, a drip unit makes a more basic, less-intense cup of joe. French press and espresso machines usually result in a tastier and overall better quality cup of coffee. Consider what you prefer and what you’re used to and choose your coffee maker style accordingly.

Toughness 

How well is the device going to do after long-term abuse on the road? Consider how long you want (and need) your travel coffee maker to last and what you’re using it for. More economical coffee makers are usually plastic or include plastic parts – and are less durable. While stainless steel units are tougher and will last longer.

If you’re a backpacker that needs a coffee-making unit that will fold down and won’t break the bank, expect to get a plastic device that will do the trick for that trip. Whether or not it survives the abuse on the road can’t be guaranteed. For camping nomads that enjoy regular and frequent camping trips, investing in a tough, durable stainless steel travel coffee maker is probably the better way to go.

Parts vs Simplicity 

Also consider this question: does the device have a lot of parts that could break? If so, can they be easily replaced? The more parts, the more likely your chances of losing or breaking a piece while on your travels.

If you’re really attached to your travel coffee maker – and finding replacement parts is fairly quick and simple – then the extra hassle of multiple parts could be worth it. But, if your travel style tends to be less organized and rugged, you should consider getting a simple device with as few extra parts as possible.

Eco-Friendly 

Does the device require filters? Many espresso units do not require filters and some coffee presses have a silicone filter built-in – however – some do require paper filters. Be sure to know what the requirements are. Take the opportunity to bash the Keurig/Nespresso pods as an extreme environmental danger.

The more dependence your unit has on paper filters, the more wasteful and less eco-friendly it is. A device that has a reusable filter – or doesn’t require a filter at all – is much better for the environment. As a nature-loving nomad, leaving the smallest carbon footprint possible is always more ideal.

Price 

How often will you use your travel coffee maker? If the answer is often, then buying a high-quality one – or the one you really want – will be worth splashing out a little extra cash for. Most travel units aren’t that expensive to begin with, and getting the quality cup of java you need to kickstart your travel days the right way will be worth it.

Also, think about the money you save by making your own coffee while traveling versus buying individual cups at cafes. With extended and frequent use, the unit will eventually pay for itself.

Power vs No Power 

Typically, one should always go for a travel coffee maker that does not require electricity – that is why there are no powered coffee makers on our list. This is especially true for backcountry campers or backpackers who enjoy spending time the most remote places possible. Not having to find or bring along an extra source of electricity to power up your coffee machine will save a lot of hassle.

There are plenty of good travel coffee makers that produce delicious, high-quality coffee that don’t require power. We highly recommend sticking to those when making your final selection.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Is the AeroPress the best coffee maker?

The AeroPress is a great coffee maker for one cup of coffee, but we’re big fans of the GSI Outdoors Java Press . They both offer great value, but the Java press has a bigger capacity.

What do you need to consider when choosing a coffee maker?

Keep these key features in mind: 1. Size, Quality and Toughness 2. Parts and Simplicity 3. Price

What is the best travel coffee maker for solo travellers?

Since a single person won’t need endless ounces of coffee (at least it’s not recommended), the AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press is the perfect choice for solo travellers.

What is the best travel coffee maker for large groups?

When travelling with your friends, opt for the GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel 14-Cup Percolator . It’s got a liquid capacity of 112 fl.oz. which is plenty enough for multiple backpackers.

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That’s it, java lovers! This is all you need to know about the best travel coffee makers out there and what you need to know to find the right portable coffee maker for your adventures. As you can see, there are many styles, sizes, and features available when it comes to brewing a great cup of coffee while on the road. But getting your necessary coffee fix is important, so be sure to weigh all your options.

Remember, not everyone has the same opinion about what makes the “perfect” cup of coffee – so carefully consider your own personal tastes, travel style and needs. 

We recommend using your new portable coffee maker with fair-trade, organic coffee :).

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The 6 Best Portable Coffee Makers of 2023, According to Our Hands-On Experience

Our top recommendation is the Aeropress Go—a versatile, portable coffee maker that’s affordable and easy to use.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

A portable coffee maker ensures a great cup ’o joe is always close at hand, whether you’re commuting, camping, or traveling for vacation. They’re compact, lightweight, and relatively easy to clean, plus most don’t require batteries or an outlet to operate.

To find the best portable coffee makers, we looked to our staff for their favorites and put them to the test. Read on for our recommendations, plus the most important things to consider before shopping.

Best Portable Espresso and Coffee Makers

Best Overall

Aeropress go portable travel coffee maker.

Best for Job Sites

Makita cordless coffee maker.

Best for Capsules

Wacaco minipresso ns2 portable espresso machine.

Best with Grinder

Cafflano all-in-one portable coffee maker.

Best for Espresso

Wacaco picopresso portable espresso maker.

Best French Press

Espro ultralight travel french press, what to consider, coffee vs. espresso.

The main difference between coffee and espresso is in the brewing process. Coffee is infused, whereas espresso is extracted under pressure, upwards of nine bars (about 130 psi).

Most of the portable coffee makers we write about brew roughly a single cup of coffee. If you prefer to down a double-shot of espresso and get on with your day, we’ve also included our favorite portable espresso makers to use with grounds or capsules.

Our top pick, the Aeropress Go , requires manual pressure for brewing, but it falls below the amount required for true espresso extraction. That said, one of the reasons it's our top pick is because its design allows for versatility to make espresso-like coffee if you adjust the grounds-t0-water ratio.

Using freshly ground beans is the best way to get a rich, full-bodied cup of joe. If you don’t have time to grind and go, consider an all-in-one portable coffee maker and grinder, like Cafflano's travel mug grinder/pour-over combo, which we recommend below.

Several of the other portable coffee makers we cover, such as the Espro French press and our favorite portable espresso maker, Wacaco’s Picopresso , are easy to load up with grounds and brew when you arrive at your destination.

Packability

With the exception of the Makita cordless coffee maker, which we recommend specifically for bringing to job sites, a portable coffee maker should be compact and lightweight, especially if you’re also hauling a laptop or camping gear in your bag. We list dimensions and weight, among other specs, for every model below.

Easy cleanup is important while you’re on the road. As such, it’s something we prioritized while developing our list of recommendations. To some extent, ease of cleanup depends on the type of portable coffee maker you choose.

For example, recycling an espresso capsule or composting a paper filter with coffee grounds takes less time than, say, cleaning a French press. Most of the portable coffee makers we write about have components that are top-rack dishwasher-safe, so you can give it a thorough clean when you get home.

How We Selected

Several of our staff editors own portable coffee and espresso makers and use them regularly, and we pooled those models to try them out. To make sure we didn’t miss any stellar options we haven’t tried, we then researched models from major brands that covered a range of brewing methods, and considered reviews of those models from other expert sources, including Wired , and popular coffee blogs like Bean Ground and Coffee Affection . We evaluated each portable coffee maker we write about for coffee taste and temperature, the size and weight of components, ease of cleanup, and overall design of portability.

While there’s a slight learning curve to achieving your perfect brew, you have to try pretty hard to make a bad cup of coffee using the Aeropress Go.

The compact and lightweight portable coffee maker wins our top spot for straightforward design and ease of use, with a reasonable price tag to match. With some experimentation and practice, it’s also versatile for making different styles of coffee. There are two ways to brew. The standard method is similar to a French press—pour water, stir grounds, and press. For a stronger cup, flip it upside-down to use the inverted method, favored by our deputy editor, Zoë Hannah, who snapped this photo of her Aeropress Go. She uses it while camping and at home when a caffeine craving strikes. All of the components pack inside the cup and there’s a soft, grippy lid that keeps everything together inside your backpack. Everything is top-rack dishwasher-safe, too. The one drawback is that the small container for paper filters doesn’t close well, and they can slide out. That’s why we recommend the brand's reusable metal filter that’s made to fit.

We didn’t get our hands on this cordless portable coffee maker, but since it’s from Popular Mechanics reader favorite, Makita, we’d be remiss not to bring it to your attention.

When we wrote about job site coffee makers a few years back, an earlier model won Editors’ Choice , and the improvements made to this updated model are considerable.

For starters, it has a top handle and removable water tank under the lid, along with a permanent filter and an auto-turn-off if the water is too low to make a cup. Best of all, it’s compatible with Makita’s 12-volt max CXT and 18-volt LXT rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, sold separately.

Depending on which you use, it brews a short five-ounce cup in five minutes or enough to fill a 16-ounce travel mug. The stainless-steel mug shown in the photo is included.

You can’t beat the convenience of a capsule espresso maker, especially if portability is a priority. Wacaco’s Minipresso NS2 is a relative newcomer in the brand’s lineup, compatible with original Nespresso capsules.

The portable espresso maker is only five inches long and weighs a mere 10 ounces. Just like the Picopresso we recommend, it can reach 18 bars of pressure (the equivalent of 261 psi) and has the same 2.7-ounce capacity.

There’s also a similar pop-out piston for manual extraction. But unlike the Picopresso, there’s an integrated cup that screws off on the bottom.

Freshly ground coffee beans are essential if you’re serious about coffee, but carrying around a grinder to use with your portable coffee maker is impractical.

We appreciate this option from Cafflano with a built-in adjustable grinder featuring a clever foldaway handle. There’s also a reusable stainless-steel microfilter nestled inside and a hole in the cover to slowly pour water over the grounds.

There’s nothing more required to fill the 16-ounce double-walled tumbler with java, though it lacks a sipping lid, which is definitely a drawback.

When I travel, I can’t do without good morning coffee at my immediate disposal. Years ago, I’d hoard Illy instant coffee sticks from flights (still unavailable in the U.S.!) just in case I couldn’t get my hands on a decent cup.

These days, there are plenty of portable coffee makers, but fewer options for espresso, which is why I was excited to try Wacaco’s top-of-the-line Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker.

Right out of the box, the Picopresso felt like a high-end camera lens in hand—definitely more espresso machine than maker.

There are about a dozen components, though they're clearly labeled in the manual. That really helped during the brewing process and with getting it back in the zippered carrying case for storage.

I wasn’t sure I’d have the hand strength to generate pressure required for extraction, which can reach a maximum of 18 bars (the equivalent of 261 psi) on the Picopresso. Not so. The pop-out piston operated smoothly and with minimal effort.

Some other portable coffee makers we cover are designed with an integrated cup, which the Picopresso doesn’t have. While it would be a nice extra, it certainly isn’t a dealbreaker.

If you can swing the price, the Picopresso makes an exceptionally good shot of espresso. If you prefer the convenience of a capsule for espresso, scroll down to our review of Wacaco's Minipresso NS2 .

Anyone who’s a fan of the French press should zero in on Espro’s superb Ultralight Travel French Press. Our team’s associate editor Tom Price says that it “genuinely [makes] one of the smoothest cups of French press coffee I have ever had” after using it for several months and toting it around in his backpack.

He attributes that smoothness to the press’s double mesh filter, which keeps the sludge out of his mug and prevents the brew from being too bitter. He also appreciates the double-wall insulation that maintains the coffee’s temperature hours after pressing.

All the components are top-rack dishwasher-safe, though you may want to give it a good rinse first to get coffee grounds out of the filter.

The lightweight and portable coffee maker is 16 ounces and comes in eight colors, as well as a brushed stainless steel. There’s no carrying case, but the looped lid can easily be hooked onto the side of a backpack with a carabiner.

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics , where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend. 

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Travel For Adventurous Women

11 Best Travel Coffee Makers (Portable Espresso, French Press & Cold Brew)

There’s nothing worse to waking up in an Airbnb to find they don’t have a decent coffee maker that they described in their listing. First off, let me just admit I’m a total caffeine addict, I really need a good cup of joe to get me started. I’m not particularly fussy about the method used to make the coffee, although I love cappuccino in Rome or cafe con leche when I’m in Spain as long as its good quality coffee I’m happy. I’m just as satisftied by a cup good “cowboy” style boiled coffee when I am backpacking.

According to Forbes , drinking coffee may lower your risk of early death so you certainly don’t want to skimp on your coffee intake while on holiday or travelling for work! Not all coffee makers are made equal, so let’s first look at a few criteria to find the best ones for travel.

Best Travel Coffee Makers

Aeropress coffee and espresso maker.

The AeroPress is one of the most convenient portable coffee making options. It is light weighted and will not take up too much space in your luggage. And it only takes three minutes to prepare a delicious cup of coffee.

Bodum Travel Tea and Coffee Press

Another great option for travelling light. The stainless-steel coffee mug with a plunger will make your coffee and you can drink from it as well. The portable French Press is very easy to use. Steep the coffee grounds in hot water, wait for two minutes, press the filter down, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup on the go.

Espro Stainless Steel Travel Coffee Press

OXO BREW Venture Travel French Press

Soma Double Wall Glass Tea and Coffee Cold Brew Bottle

Wacaco Minipresso GR, Portable Espresso Machine

Moocoo Manual Espresso Maker

Bialetti Moka Express Espresso Maker

A Moka Espresso Maker is a good option if you quickly want to make more than one cup of coffee. It can be a bit bulky in your suitcase and the brewing method is more laborious than for instance a French Press. But the delicious coffee is worth the hassle. Add a touch of home to your travel experience with the stove operated Moka espresso maker.

Presto MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker

You don’t have to compromise on the quality of your coffee while travelling. This coffee maker is compatible with K-cups or another brand of your choice. Before starting, you can choose the cup size that you want (6, 8, or 10-ounce options) Insert the K-cup or coffee grounds, fill the reservoir with water, attach it, and start brewing your delicious cup of morning coffee.

Kuissential Collapsible Silicone Coffee Dripper

The silicone is a great material that doesn’t affect the taste of the coffee. And it’s more durable than a plastic or porcelain dripper. Kuissential Coffee Dripper is also very easy to clean and pack away. It is great value for money, and perfect for travelling. If a pour over coffee is your brewing method of choice, this travel coffee maker is your best option.

Primula Single Serve Coffee Brew Buddy

This single server will fit almost any size mug or cup. And it’s small enough to easily fit into your handbag or backpack. It is the ideal travelling accessory for a solo traveller who enjoys a regular coffee fix.

All-In-One Coffee Maker & Manual Grinder

If you are a coffee connoisseur that insists on only the freshest coffee possible, this is the coffee maker for you. A compact hand grinder is hidden inside. Simply screw off the top, select your grinding setting, grind a single serving of beans, and add water to the travel mug for a premium coffee with the snap of your fingers.

How to Select the Best Travel Coffee Maker

Firstly, you want a coffee maker that will save you time while travelling. Try to find a coffee maker that brews in maximum five minutes. Also, pick a coffee maker that is easy to clean.

Next, decide what size coffee maker you want to travel with. Some travel coffee makers are so compact, they can fit in your handbag or backpack which often make great travel gifts .

Another important question to ask yourself is whether you want a powered or powerless coffee maker. Rather select a battery-operated or manual coffee maker if you are unsure of what kind of access you will have to a power source while travelling.

Lastly, you need to choose the type of coffee maker you prefer, for instance, espresso or pour-over. A French Press is one of the most convenient brewing methods for travel.

Coffee Maker Reviews

Reviews are always handy if want to compare different products. Greatcoffeebrewers.com has a great series of reviews on the best coffee makers to help you narrow down your options if you are still unsure of what to buy.

They also have a number of coffee-lover related informative articles for helpful information on topics such as how to make the perfect cup, and the different types of coffee available so you can pair the perfect cup of coffee with your brand new travel coffee maker.

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Related posts:, about the author.

Mae has travelled to over 40 countries and lived in 8. Born in St. Petersburg, Mae grew up in Lithuania and has spent most of her adult life in the UK. She has been blogging for over 8 years and is the lead editor on Travel Belles.

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Scott Gilbertson

• The Best Portable Espresso Makers

I take my espresso seriously. I put myself through college making espresso for others, and I even married my favorite barista. It's been a while now since either my wife or I had access to the kind of expensive Italian-made espresso machines you find in nice coffee shops, but thanks to the world of portable espresso makers, I've figured out how to make the perfect espresso no matter where I go.

WIRED has looked at some of the best latte and cappuccino machines , best portable coffee makers , and best cold brew makers , but we wanted to share some ways to make great espresso on the road or at the campsite. Making a barista-worthy espresso is challenging. Doing it without electricity or a giant machine is even more daunting. 

• How to Make Better Coffee at Home
• The Best Coffee Grinders
• The Best Espresso Machines
• The Best Coffee Subscriptions
• Coffee Myths and Misconceptions
• The Best Latte and Cappuccino Makers
• The Best Electric Kettles
• Gifts for Coffee Lovers
• More Coffee Coverage

Updated August 2021: We've changed our top pick to Wacaco's new Picopresso.

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If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more .

Wacaco Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker ($130)

Wacaco's Picopresso is the overall best portable espresso maker I've tried. The compact design, lightweight but solid construction, and excellent extraction results give it the edge over the rest of our picks below. It consistently pulled delicious shots (once I got the grind right) with very little bitterness, and it reliably produces a nice crema.

A couple of notes to getting the best extraction: Grind your coffee pretty fine. I used my trusty Hario hand grinder, but have a look at our coffee grinder guide for other options. Make sure you preheat the Picopresso—pump hot water through with nothing in the basket and then make your actual shot. It takes a fair amount of pressure to pump the water. If you have arthritis, repetitive strain injury, or another source of joint pain in your hands, the Picopresso is probably not the best choice. The company has a handy video here that breaks down the process.

The biggest downside right now is getting your hands on one. The company currently has a waitlist, you can sign up to be notified when more are in stock. Our former top pick, Wacaco's Nanopresso ($80) , is still a solid choice and might be easier to come by right now. The extraction it produces isn't quite as good as the Picopresso and it's less compact, but if you need it now, it's probably your best bet.

Flair Signature ($239)

Flair Signature

Brenda Stolyar

Nena Farrell

The Flair is the least portable of the devices reviewed here. It does pack down to a roughly laptop-size case that's about 2 inches thick, but it's heavy. It looks great on a kitchen counter between trips, though. What you lose in portability is more than made up for in the quality of the espresso. 

The Flair Signature is simple to use. You can see the process in the company's very helpful video guide to brewing . It's also built like a tank, and clean-up is just a matter of dumping the espresso and rinsing out the portafilter.

Experimentation with various grinds is necessary to get the ideal extraction. Of course, the fresher the coffee, the better the results. That said, you can even get excellent results with pre-ground espressos like Medaglia D'Oro .

Flair offers two other models: the Classic and the Signature Pro. The primary differences are the size and the materials of the brew heads. If you're willing to forgo stainless steel, the classic works the same way and should produce the same results. The Classic is $165 at Amazon . The Signature Pro goes for $325 and is a step up in build quality.

9Barista ($385)

I've reviewed a lot of gadgets over the years, but few, if any, have been as astoundingly ingenious as the 9Barista. This is the only stovetop espresso maker I am aware of that actually reaches 9 bars, the amount of pressure you need for true espresso. 

The designer is a jet engineer and his background shows in the internals. The double-chambered design traps boiling water until the pressure builds to 9 bars. At that point, a release valve opens and the water travels up a coil, which cools it slightly, before being pushed up into the ground espresso, and finally out into the cup. The results, once you get your grind right, are delicious. It produces a clean, smooth extraction with a nice bit of crema.

Portable is stretch here—the 9Barista is very well made, but it does weigh more than three pounds. For a small apartment with limited kitchen counter space, or for those RV trips you've been plotting, it's perfect.

The main drawback, aside from the price, is that you'll have to wait for it to cool before opening it to brew a second shot. At least you can grind and prep your coffee while you wait, saving some time. I found that, with a bit of cool water to speed things along, I could brew shots with only a couple of minutes in between. And yes, it's expensive, but considering the quality of construction and the materials involved, it doesn't feel outrageous.

Uniterra Nomad ($300)

Uniterra Nomad

The Uniterra Nomad is also not the most portable device, though it is smaller and lighter than the Flair. It puts that heft to good use by looking like a little piece of metal art sitting on your desk while cranking out an excellent, creamy espresso.

The Nomad, which grew out of a Kickstarter campaign, is made mostly of solid metal, which gives it a sturdy feel some of our other options lack. It's also the only one to include a proper, heavy, high-quality tamper to evenly press down your coffee.

The company touts its True Crema Valve, a bit of engineering that helps compensate for a bad grind or poor tamping. I tested this by using some pre-ground coffee from a large chain that shall remain nameless. The extraction from the poorly ground coffee with the True Crema valve was better than the extraction without it.

You should always use high-quality beans—nothing will improve your espresso so much as good, freshly roasted beans. But if you mess up the grind or don't tamp the grounds properly, the Nomad's True Crema Valve can save you from yourself.

Cafflano Kompresso ($75)

The Cafflano Kompresso is the lightest espresso maker in this roundup and also the easiest to clean, making it ideal for backpacking.

It relies on a manual hydraulic compressor to force the water through and extract espresso. It's the least forgiving device I tested, and the results can be the best cup of espresso or the worst among these picks. You need fresh, high-quality beans and time to get the grind right. Grind too coarse and you'll end up with a watery mess. Grind too fine and you'll have to use your whole body weight to force the extraction. But when you find the sweet spot, you can get a good 3/8 inch of crema and a deliciously smooth shot.

Unlike every other device, the Kompresso makes a good cold-brew shot too. The secret, which I found on the company's Instagram account , is to tamp extra hard and presoak for one minute. The results are amazing (again, assuming you have high-quality beans and a good grind).

Coffee must meet three requirements to qualify as espresso.

• It must be brewed under pressure instead of infused.
• It should have a very high brew ratio, usually two parts water to one part coffee. Brewed coffee is more like 15 to one.
• Espresso tends to be darker, heavier, and richer than infusion-brewed coffee. As such, the beans are typically a darker roast, though I've noticed lighter roasts may be growing in popularity.

For this guide, I limited the options to pressurized brewers, which is why there's no AeroPress or moka pot, neither of which make espresso. (A moka pot is pressurized, but not enough to qualify as espresso.) The Aeropress is in our Best Portable Coffee Makers guide .

There are three basic, vital espresso tips I'll leave you with.

Find good, fresh beans: If you haven’t made espresso before, start with high-quality beans. Quality beans can make even cheap brewing equipment shine. And high quality means fresh. Find a local coffee roaster in your area.

If you don't have a coffee roaster nearby, you can order beans online or try one of the preground espresso blends at your local grocery store. I've tried popular espresso blends like Lavazza , Medaglia D'Oro , and Café Bustelo . Medaglia D'Oro has a smoother flavor than the others, but it's still more bitter than freshly roasted and ground whole beans.

For testing, I used beans from Jittery Joe's roasting company in Athens, Georgia, specifically the Wake-n-Bake blend. (Disclosure: I worked for Jittery Joe's for many years, so I grew to like its coffee.) I also used an espresso blend from Fahrenheit Coffee Roaster in Mancos, Colorado, and an excellent dark roast Indian coffee from Atlas Coffee Club . If you can't find something near you, have a look at our guide to coffee subscription services .

Get a quality grinder: Once you have good, freshly roasted beans you need to grind them. You'll want a burr grinder, which grinds your beans evenly rather than chopping them like a blade grinder. See our guide to coffee grinders to find the perfect one for you.

Start experimenting: Pick one of these makers and start experimenting. At first, make sure you weigh out your beans and water using a good scale like this Eravsow Digital Scale , and take notes. It may sound like extreme nerdery, and it is, but after experimenting for a few days you'll likely find something you love, and you'll know how to pull your perfect shot every time for espresso—no matter where you are.

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The Best Coffee Makers

By Wirecutter Staff

Over the years, we’ve tried nearly every method of making coffee, from  cold-brew coffee makers and the Chemex to moka pots and Moccamasters . For people who want pour-over-quality coffee as well as the convenience of an automated machine, we recommend the Bonavita Enthusiast 8-Cup Drip Coffee Brewer with Thermal Carafe .

Of all the methods we’ve tested, we think the Enthusiast offers the best ratio of flavor to effort. But if you’re looking for an espresso machine , a  coffee grinder , pour-over gear , and more, we have other recommendations, too.

Bonavita Enthusiast 8-Cup Drip Coffee Brewer with Thermal Carafe

The best drip coffee maker.

This stylish brewer consistently makes delicious coffee. It’s fast, easy to use and maintain, and has a compact and attractive design.

Buying Options

Find the right coffee maker for your needs, best drip coffee maker, best budget drip coffee maker, best pour-over coffee dripper, best french press, best cold-brew coffee maker, best beginner espresso setup, best nespresso machine, best coffee grinder, best electric kettle, more for coffee and tea drinkers, frequently asked questions.

Who this is for: Anyone who wants a solid drip coffee maker to make a pot of great-tasting coffee that stays hot for hours. If you already own a good grinder (the most important part of any coffee setup), and you pay a premium for gourmet beans, this machine will get the most out of them.

Why we like it: The Bonavita Enthusiast 8-Cup Drip Coffee Brewer with Thermal Carafe is fast and convenient, with features like a removable water tank and an optional bloom function (which pre-wets your coffee, for more-even brewing and smoother flavor). In our tests to determine the best drip coffee maker , we found that this brewer made some of the best coffee of all the ones we tried, producing a nuanced, well-balanced pot. The coffee maker has a handsome and nicely compact design, with a well-made thermal stainless steel carafe that pours easily and keeps coffee hot for hours.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Enthusiast doesn’t have an auto-brew function that would allow you to program the machine to brew a pot before you wake up. (If that’s a priority, get the OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker , another pick in our guide to drip coffee makers).

There’s no drip stop on the filter basket, which means it will drip a bit when you remove the carafe after brewing.

The 45-minute descaling program is slow, taking over twice as long as other brewers we tested with similar functions.

While some other brewers in this price range are covered for two or more years, the Enthusiast has only a one-year limited warranty.

Capacity: 40 ounces

Brew time: less than 8 minutes

Budget pick

Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker CE251

Our cheap coffee maker pick.

This easy-to-use machine consistently brews hot coffee at the right strength.

May be out of stock

Who this is for: Someone who wants a decent, low-fuss drip coffee maker for under $100. This machine will brew reliably good coffee whether you use freshly ground or pre-ground beans, so this an especially good choice if you typically buy the latter.

Why we like it: Among the budget drip models we tested, the  Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker CE251 made the most balanced and the hottest cup of coffee. It has convenient, simple-to-use features, like different settings for a classic or richer taste, and its removable water tank is easy to read and fill. This model was also intuitive enough to program, so it’s suitable for shared kitchens.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We had issues with the carafe’s lid: It screws on and off, and it’s not as easy to use as the flip-top lids on some of the other models we tested.

Capacity: 60 ounces

Brew time: about 13 minutes

Kalita Wave 185 Dripper

The best dripper.

Out of all the pour-over drippers we’ve tested, the Kalita Wave 185 made the best-tasting coffee most consistently.

Who this is for: People who want a manual, inexpensive method for making great-tasting coffee, and one that doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Why we like it: The pour-over method is simple, and it produces delicious coffee. By having more control over the brewing process, you can hone each variable to get the most flavor out of the beans. Of all the drippers we tested in our guide to the best pour-over coffee makers, our favorite was the Kalita Wave 185 , because it produced the most-consistent, even, and flavorful cup of coffee. Its flat bottom promotes more even drainage, which makes it easier for beginners to master.

In addition to the glass model shown here, you can also get a ceramic or stainless steel version of this dripper. All perform about the same.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: In comparison with an automatic drip coffee maker, a multistep, gear-intensive method of making coffee can be a bit complicated, especially if you’re groggy first thing in the morning. But the Kalita Wave 185 is more forgiving and easier to master than many drippers.

Also, the Kalita Wave uses proprietary filters that are more difficult to acquire than standard Melitta filters. They are, however, available on Amazon or in specialty coffee shops.

Espro P3 French Press

The best french press.

This inexpensive French press has an innovative filter that consistently makes cleaner, more-nuanced coffee than the competition.

Who this is for: People who want a super-simple, quick method of making coffee. This is great for coffee drinkers who want something that’s easy to learn and master.

Why we like it: The Espro P3 French press produces consistently clean, bright, flavorful coffee. It has a bucket-shaped double filter, with finer mesh than that found in most French presses. This keeps coffee as close to grit-free as you get with a pour-over (and noticeably more so than coffee made in our runner-up pick , the Bodum Chambord ). Once the Espro is plunged, it keeps the grounds away from the coffee, so your java doesn’t take on bitterness from oversteeping. In our tests, the last cup we poured tasted as good as the first—even a full hour later.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Glass presses will never be as sturdy as their stainless steel counterparts . All glass beakers are delicate and will break if you drop them or knock them too hard. In the event that the Espro P3 does break, you can buy replacement parts , including beakers and filters.

The Espro P3 is not as visually appealing as some other French presses, like the Bodum Chambord, with its classic stylings. And the double filter makes it a little tricky to clean. But we didn’t find the Espro to be that much harder to clean than any other French press, and we think the results are worth any of these tradeoffs.

Capacity: 32 ounces

OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker

The best cold-brew coffee maker.

OXO’s cold-brew maker has the best-looking design, plus some clever aspects that make it easier to pour from and to store. The brew it makes was often a favorite of panelists.

Who this is for: For people who want to make better iced coffee. Compared with simply refrigerating hot-brewed coffee, cold-brewing with a slow exposure extracts fewer bitter flavors. So you’ll get a sweeter, milder-tasting coffee.

Why we like it: The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker is our pick for the best cold-brew coffee maker because it’s well designed and easy to use, and in our tests it produced a more-consistent, flavorful cup of coffee than other models. It made cold coffee with balanced acidity, a stronger aroma, and a cleaner finish.

This brewer makes enough cold brew concentrate to yield about 12 to 14 servings of coffee, which should last all week. But if you’re short on space or prefer to make less at a time, OXO also makes a compact cold brew maker that’s just as easy to use.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Some of our testers thought the Filtron Cold Water Coffee Concentrate Brewer (our runner-up) made a smoother, mellower cup of coffee. But others liked the stronger, bolder flavor of coffee from the OXO. Plus, we found our pick easier to use than the Filtron (which is a bit more cumbersome).

Capacity: 32 ounces (yielding 24 to 28 ounces of cold brew concentrate)

Breville Bambino Plus

The best espresso machine for beginners.

This potent little machine is fast and easy to use, and it will impress beginners and experienced baristas with its consistent espresso shots and silky frothed milk.

Baratza Sette 30 Conical Burr Grinder

The best espresso grinder.

This coffee grinder has the finer, more precise settings that are needed to make the best espresso.

Who this is for: People who like good coffee and want to make quality espresso (or espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and Americanos) at home.

Why we like it: The Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine stood out in our tests for the best espresso machines for beginners , pulling consistently great-tasting espresso shots more easily than other machines. It was also the simplest to use, featuring the best documentation and most user-friendly design. The Bambino Plus’s steam wand was easily the best of those on the under-$1,000 machines we tested, and it has an automatic function that produces cafe-quality steamed milk at the press of a button. This model comes with a lot of accessories and a place to store them. And it’s available for a reasonable price.

When you’re making espresso, a good grinder is just as important as a good espresso machine. Our coffee-grinder picks , though great at grinding beans for drip or pour-over coffee, lack the finer, more-precise settings that are needed to make the best espresso. The Baratza Sette 30 accurately produced fine espresso grinds. In our tests, it performed the best in its price range.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: In our tests, the Bambino Plus made the most consistently good espresso, but it did not make the absolute best espresso (the pricier Breville Barista Touch won that crown). The preprogrammed double-shot setting on the Bambino Plus cut off the extraction too quickly during our initial attempts. But reprogramming the shot volume, using a phone timer, was easy. Finally, the Bambino Plus lacks the dedicated hot-water dispenser that’s included with other Breville models, but you can dispense hot water through the steam wand .

Water-reservoir capacity: 1.9 liters

Nespresso Essenza Mini

The nespresso machine we recommend.

The Essenza Mini makes the same exact espresso as $400 Nespresso machines, but it has no unnecessary features.

Who this is for: People who are interested in convenience and speed. A Nespresso is the fastest, most effortless way to make an espresso-like drink—all you have to do is pop a capsule into the machine and press a button.

Why we like it: The Essenza Mini is our pick for the best Nespresso machine because it’s small and mighty, capable of making the same espressos and lungos as any other Nespresso machine in its line. We’ve determined that all of the machines make identical drinks, so the least expensive one is your best bet. Nespresso pods are expensive compared with a cup of drip coffee brewed at home, and they don’t all taste great. But the real appeal of Nespresso is its ease, speed, and consistency.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: In exchange for its compact size, the Essenza Mini has a 20.3-ounce water tank and a reusable tray that can accommodate just six capsules, the smallest of any Nespresso machine. But then again, both are easy to refill and empty. The Essenza Mini did struggle slightly in our testing after brewing dozens of back-to-back espressos. This may be a problem if you plan on churning out lungos from your Essenza Mini for a large dinner party. But if the machine sputters or stops, let it rest for a minute and it should be good to go again.

Water-tank capacity: 20.3 ounces (enough for eight espressos)

Used-capsule capacity: six

Baratza Encore

The best coffee grinder.

This no-frills workhorse coffee grinder produces a super consistent grind.

Who this is for: If you want to take coffee seriously, the most important item in your brewing setup will be a good-quality burr grinder. Unlike blade grinders, which randomly chop coffee beans into smaller and smaller pieces, burr grinders pulverize coffee beans between two sets of burrs and deliver a much more uniform grind, resulting in better-tasting coffee.

Why we like it: The slim and trim Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder is priced lower than most of the competition—about $150, compared with about $200 for anything else in its echelon. In our testing for the best coffee grinders guide , the Encore performed as well as or better than any home grinder we tried. It grinds beans quickly and evenly and is simple to use and adjust. And because it’s easy enough to clean, maintain, and even repair , you’ll use it for years to come. The Encore makes it supremely easy to produce a great cup of coffee.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Encore is a very simple machine. It has an on/off switch only, so it doesn’t allow for a timed grind (whereas the Baratza Virtuoso+ , our upgrade pick, does). It can take a long time to grind on a very fine, espresso-like setting. And like all of the machines we tested, the Baratza machines can be messy when grinding coffee, spreading dust and chaff over the counter.

Grind settings: 40

Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle

The best electric kettle.

This 1.7-liter stainless steel kettle quickly brings water to the temperatures needed for optimum flavor from tea or coffee.

Cuisinart Digital Gooseneck Kettle

The best gooseneck kettle.

We recommend this gooseneck kettle for anyone preparing pour-over coffee or for tea lovers who will geek out over its spot-on temperature accuracy.

Who this is for: The Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle is for anyone who needs to bring water to a boil to make French press coffee, pour-over coffee, or tea. The Cuisinart GK-1 Digital Gooseneck Kettle is best for people preparing pour-over coffee (the gooseneck spout offers better aim) or for tea lovers who will geek out over its spot-on temperature accuracy.

Why we like it: The Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle topped all of the competition in our tests for the best electric kettle guide (this model has been our pick since 2013). The PerfecTemp offers a winning combination of speed, accuracy, and ease of use. Its handle has buttons with preset temperature settings, which is pretty useful since different coffees and teas require different brewing temps. In addition, if pour-over coffee is your jam, you’ll appreciate the precise aim and smooth pour of the Cuisinart GK-1 Digital Gooseneck Kettle ’s gooseneck spout. It had the most accurate temperature controls among all of the models we tested.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although the Cuisinart CPK-17 had better accuracy than most of the other kettles we tested, we found that it wasn’t as accurate at hitting lower temperatures; when we set it to 160 °F, it measured 8 degrees over. Because this model has a slew of other noteworthy features, we’re willing to forgive its minor temperature variances at the lowest setting.

As with the lids of most gooseneck kettles we tested, the Cuisinart Gooseneck’s lid doesn’t open at the push of a button—you have to pull it off manually, which can be tricky when the kettle is hot. Also, like most gooseneck kettles we tested, the Cuisinart Gooseneck lacks a water-level window.

We’ve received feedback from some readers who said their CPK-17 broke down after about a year, and we heard from others who found the markings wore off the buttons. (The gooseneck kettle is newer, so we haven’t heard as much about its reliability). But many others report this kettle has lasted them for years, and the one we’ve been using in our office looks nearly new after years of use. When we analyzed Amazon reviews of a number of electric kettles, we found they all seemed to have similar rates of failure (small when compared with the number of kettles sold). Cuisinart, at least, covers its kettles with a three-year warranty, whereas most manufacturers cover theirs for just one year.

Cuisinart CPK-17  c apacity: 1.7 liters; temperature settings: six preset heat settings

Cuisinart GK-1 capacity: 1 liter; temperature settings: adjustable in five-degree increments, from 140 °F to 212 °F

This article was edited by Anna Shults Held and Marilyn Ong.

What is the best black coffee maker?

Though getting the most out of your beans is important no matter how you drink your coffee, it’s especially important for those who drink their coffee black. We think pour-over methods make the best black coffee. They’re a simple, consistent way to brew coffee, with flavor dimensionality you might not get from a machine. And the paper filters used with our pour-over picks reduce residue, resulting in a cleaner-tasting cup, compared with coffee made in a French press. That said, our French press pick, the Espro P3 , uses a mesh double-basket filter, which makes a cup that’s pretty close to pour over.

How can I make coffee taste better at home?

Buy whole beans in small batches. Coffee beans lose flavor over time. Keeping the beans whole and storing them at room temperature in an airtight container —we like the Rubbermaid Brilliance Pantry Storage Containers —will keep your coffee from turning bitter or absorbing ambient smells. Grinding them just prior to use with a burr grinder will ensure that the coffee is ground evenly, resulting in coffee that is flavorful and balanced.

For the most consistent cup, weigh your beans using a kitchen scale , rather than measuring by volume. Beans and grounds don’t settle the same way in a spoon every time, and the coffee-to-water ratio can make the critical difference between a good and bad brew. The American Weigh Scales LB-3000 Compact Digital Scale is the most accurate 0.1-gram scale we’ve tested.

Are pricier coffee makers worth it?

Arguably, the best ways to make coffee are often the cheapest. You can get a quality pour-over dripper for about $25 and a French press for about $40. However, hand-pour methods can still require other gear, like grinders and kettles. The grinder especially is worth spending a little more money on. Our burr grinder pick, the Baratza Encore , costs nearly $150, compared with a budget blade-style grinder which runs about $25, but ensures a more consistent, flavorful cup.

For automated makers, they’re worth springing for up to a point. We tested espresso machines and learned that many machines under $500 aren’t worth buying —espresso requires durable hardware and precise temperature and pressure control, which are costly. For drip coffee makers, a $100 coffee maker will make better coffee than a $40 coffee maker. After a certain point, though, the price difference comes down to user interface and design, rather than coffee quality.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Best Picks for Coffee and Tea Lovers

by Wirecutter Staff

Give your caffeine routine a jolt with these Wirecutter-recommended electric kettles, coffee makers, tea steepers, mug warmers, and more.

The Best Drip Coffee Maker

by Marguerite Preston and Kathleen Squires

We’ve been testing coffee makers since 2014, and we think the Bonavita Enthusiast 8-Cup Drip Coffee Brewer offers the best combination of convenient features and delicious coffee.

The Best Cold-Brew Coffee Maker

We’ve been testing cold-brew coffee makers since 2016. The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker makes the tastiest brew and is the easiest to use and clean.

How to Clean Your Coffee Maker

by Joanne Chen

Cleaning your coffee maker regularly and thoroughly will help the machine last longer and make the coffee taste better.

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8 best portable coffee makers for the perfect brew while camping

For a barista-quality cup of joe while travelling, you need one of these compact gadgets , article bookmarked.

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There’s no better way to welcome a crisp morning at the campsite than with a cup of hot, barista-quality coffee .  

Thanks to the recent intersection between the hipster and hiking cultures, you can forget mediocre mugs of instant and cold strolls to the cafe. There are plenty of pocket-sized, artisanal coffee makers on the market that you can use to brew from your sleeping bag.  

We tested these coffee makers on camping trips, day hikes and windswept surf trips. We also discovered a useful crossover: many of these little coffee-makers are desk-sized and keep your drink warm for hours, meaning you can maintain a steady supply of caffeine when working from home, without having to pop to the kitchen to microwave your mug.

The kind of coffee maker you need depends on what kind of coffee you like – there are really portable options out there for every style of brew. If you like a long, even cup of coffee, pick a “drip” brewer or a french press (also known as a cafetiere).  

If you need a short jolt of coffee to get going, try one of the portable espresso makers – you can always lengthen these with hot water to make an Americano.  

Related stories

If you’re a gourmet, you’ll love the Hario V60 and the travel version of the famous Aeropress. These made such smooth, flavourful cups of coffee that we started using them at home, too.

You will need to be able to boil water to use with these coffee makers, although with some systems, the kettle is integrated, so you can pop the whole thing on the stove. Most make a single shot or cup of coffee at a time, unless we’ve specified otherwise, but many also come in larger models.

How we tested

We looked for portability and durability first – so glass and ceramic were out, as was anything that took up too much room in our backpack. We also preferred options that didn’t need paper filters, because those can be fiddly to pack – although we made some exceptions. Overall, we looked for the best-tasting cups of coffee across a range of brew methods, with a variety of beans and roasts.

The best portable coffee makers for 2022 are:

• Best overall – Aeropress go: £28, Blackbagcoffeeco.co.uk
• Best durable design – BruTrek ovrlndr press: £42, Outside.co.uk
• Best for espresso – Wacaco nanopresso: £59.90, Wacaco.com
• Best for camping – Sea to Summit x-brew coffee dripper: £15, Seatosummit.co.uk
• Best for a camping stove – Bialetti moka express: From £24, Johnlewis.com
• Best for backpackers and cyclists – MSR windburner coffee press kit: £24.03, Amazon.co.uk
• Best for beautiful design – GSI mini espresso set one cup: £37.95, Absolute-snow.co.uk
• Best for a coffee-shop filter – Hario V60 coffee dripper: £8.89, Amazon.co.uk

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Aeropress go

• Best : Overall
• Capacity : 227g
• Coffee maker type : Vacuum coffee pot
• Size : 9.9cm x 9.9cm x 13.5cm

The portable coffee-maker of choice for many coffee experts just got even more portable. Aeropress makes some of the smoothest, best extracted coffee we’ve tried, and this slightly smaller travel version is no different. Packing down into its own plastic mug, it’s a brilliantly compact device. It also comes with some upgrades on the classic model – we found it had a slightly smoother plunge, for example. It comes with paper filters, but we prefer reusable metal ones when we’re on the go – Aeropress doesn’t have an official one yet, but they’re easy to find online.

BruTrek ovrlndr press

• Best : Durable design
• Capacity : 709g
• Coffee maker type : French press
• Size : 4.5cm x 2.1cm x 1.55cm

This is the most rugged, adventure-ready coffee maker we tested. It’s essentially a tall cafetiere, made from steel, with an integrated mug. Thanks to the vacuum insulated wall, it kept our coffee warm for at least an hour. It’s incredibly neat and simple: add coffee (coarse ground) and water, stir, then pop on the lid – which integrates the press – and push down. The mesh press sits snug against the wall, so the grounds stay firmly at the bottom of the cylinder while you drink. It’s very durable and easy to clean – simply unscrew the bottom compartment and throw away the grounds. It’s on the heavier side but makes two generous cups at a time.

Wacaco nanopresso

• Best : For espresso
• Capacity : 8g
• Coffee maker type : Espresso machine
• Size : 5.6cm x 7.1cm x 6.3cm

This is a handheld espresso maker that extracts with more pressure than most machines and is the perfect camping companion if you like your coffee short and strong. It works best with ground, shop-bought espresso coffee and takes very little time and effort to brew: fill the small water tank with hot water, pack in the coffee, and squeeze. It’s not quite barista-quality espresso, but if you consider the fact that it will fit in your pocket or the side pocket of your backpack, it’s a very fine substitute. 

Please note the price shown excludes VAT.

Sea to Summit x-brew coffee dripper

• Best : For camping
• Capacity : 480g
• Coffee maker type : Dripper
• Size : ‎10.1cm x 10.1cm x 8.8cm

This is our favourite of Sea to Summit’s clever range of collapsible camping cooking equipment. The flexible, cooking-grade silicone pour-over-style coffee filter collapses to the size of a small coaster, making it the ultimate coffee maker for ultralight camping or hiking trips. We found a finer grind made the best coffee – water seems to flow straight through coarse-ground coffee – and you need roughly the same proportions of coffee to water that you would use for any drip system. It’s easy to clean and fits on any mug.

Bialetti moka express

• Best : For a camping stove
• Capacity : 60g
• Coffee maker type : Moka pot
• Size : 3.2cm x 5.5cm x 5.1cm

A tiny, one-person version of the classic Italian stovetop coffee maker. A moka pot is ideal if you camp with a gas stove because you can leave it gently bubbling away while you pack up camp. It’s designed to make espresso, so it’s best suited to people who like a short coffee – although you can easily top up your shot with hot water to make an Americano. The espresso it makes – a shot at a time – is exquisite, as good as you would make at home, and well worth the little bit of space it takes up in your pack. Producing a tiny version of Italy’s coolest coffee maker at breakfast will also win you major style points.

MSR windburner coffee press kit

• Best : For backpackers and bikers
• Capacity : 1,000g
• Size : 13.9cm x 13.9cm x 3.3cm

This spectacularly fast, neat coffee system only works with MSR’s windburner stove – it’s basically a lightweight press that fits inside the windburner pot – but paired up, they make the most reliable and dependable cup of coffee you can get on the road. It will light in even the worst weather thanks to the burner being very well shielded, and, because the pot sits snug on top, the water boils fast, even at altitude. The coffee is smooth and works best with a course ground. Everything packs down into the windburner’s pot, making it ideal for backpackers and bikers. If you’re an adventurer and coffee is a survival essential, this little press is the best you can get.

GSI mini espresso set one cup

• Best : For beautiful design
• Capacity : 70g
• Coffee maker type : Stovetop
• Size : 9.1cm x 7.62cm x 14.9cm

A beautiful little espresso system that works a bit like the moka pot. The base sits comfortably on a small gas stove, and the coffee bubbles up the longer spout to drip into the double-walled cup provided. It looks amazing and the coffee is excellent. The whole system packs down into a small case that’s just slightly bigger than a sunglasses pouch. It only makes one shot at a time, but it brews very quickly. It’s the perfect, lightweight treat for a camper – it’s also available as a larger, four-cup model if you’re heading out with a group, or just require a lot of caffeine before summiting.

Hario V60 coffee dripper

• Best : For a coffee-shop filter
• Capacity : 400g
• Coffee maker type : Pour over
• Size : 11cm x 8.9cm x 10.6cm

Hario makes the wildly popular ceramic V60 drippers you see deployed at artisan coffee shops, and we’re happy to report this lightweight, plastic version works just as well. Brewing with this is an art, but it is one you can replicate at the campsite: make sure you use V60 filters , and let your boiled water cool a little before pouring it, which should be done as slowly and precisely as possible, in circles over medium-coarse grounds. The lightweight plastic dripper in the single-cup size is very small, and even though it’s a slightly odd shape we found that we could fit it easily into our backpack pocket.

The verdict: Camping coffee makers

The Aeropress go takes one of the best handheld coffee makers on the market and makes it pocket-sized, which is hard to beat. Our espresso-loving reviewers were also blown away by Wacaco’s nanopresso handheld pump .

Cook up a storm with our guide to the best camping stoves for grilling sausages, toasting marshmallows and making hot drinks

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Don’t Travel Without One of These Killer Portable Coffee Makers

Aeropress go, a beloved, easy to use pour over, brew pour-over coffee maker, a ‘breaking bad’-level espresso machine, portable coffee maker, the perfect french press for camping, adventure all-in-one french press, simply must include the og, v60 ceramic dripper, do you even brü, mate, pour over brewing system, again, not a microphone, one email. one story. every week. sign up for the vice newsletter..

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8 Best Portable Espresso Makers (Made for Travel)

• Author: Julia Bobak
• Last Updated: February 7, 2024

Fact Checked

• Why Trust Homegrounds?

Julia Bobak

Julia is a west coast canada-based professional coffee specialist who has spent nearly a decade immersed in the world of coffee research and professional brewing. she loves trail running, rock climbing, coffee, food, and her tiny dog — and writing about all of them. she starts every morning with a fresh americano from her home espresso machine, or she doesn’t start it at all..

Whether you’re traveling for work or going off the beaten track, the problem for coffee lovers on the road is where to get a good caffeine fix. There are plenty of portable coffee makers on the market, but finding one that makes a true espresso is a slightly harder task. 

We’ve done the research and found 8 portable espresso makers that will brew you a great shot no matter where you are. Here’s our guide to finding the best travel espresso maker for your needs.

The Flair Signature Espresso Maker

Yes; it’s a little larger than the others on this list, but hands down it makes the best quality on-the-go espresso at this size. If you can manage the extra space; the Flair will ensure you start every morning off with 10/10 espresso. What a life!

The 8 Best Portable Espresso Makers for 2024

Now all you need is a bag of espresso beans like these , a few tips on how to extract espresso  – and you’re good to go!

Let’s take a look at the eight best portable hand espresso makers:

1.  Flair Signature Espresso Maker  

• Works with: Ground coffee
• Heat Source: Requires external heat source

The Flair Signature Espresso Maker looks less like a kitchen gadget and more like something you’d see on a plinth in an art museum (particularly in chrome!). While this is the heaviest espresso maker by far in this list, the Flair actually packs into a relatively compact travel case that makes it great for bringing out to the lake house, visiting the in-laws, or even car camping trips.

The Flair is a true manual coffee machine and offers you complete control over your shot: grind, tamp , water temperature, pressure, and timing.

With lever machines, the barista is in control. If a certain coffee needs a longer pre-infusion or extracts more flavor with a distinct pressure profile, it is easy to do this. They allow creativity and experimentation.

Like many of the offerings on this list the Flair does not require any electricity to operate but will require you to have some means of heating your water. The Flair has an optional pressure gauge for those who are scientifically minded, but it is entirely possible to pull great shots without it.

Watch Scott review it in detail here and you’ll see why we love it so much:

You can also read our Flair espresso review .

2.  Wacaco Nanopresso  

• Works with: Ground coffee and Nespresso pods

The Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker offers a degree of customization not seen in any of the other espresso makers here. The optional Barista Kit  comes with multiple sizes of filter basket and water tanks.

Watch Steven’s video on Nanopresso here:

With these additional accessories, the Nanopresso is capable of brewing single shots of espresso, double espresso, long shots of espresso, and any permutation in between. Compared to the Wacaco Minipresso and the Handpresso , the Nanopresso requires less physical effort to use, meaning that even if you’ve got limited hand strength or dexterity you can still make delicious espresso on the go ( 2 ).

3.  Conqueco Portable Espresso Maker

• Works with: Nespresso capsules
• Heat source: Self heating

The Conqueco is one of the heaviest machines on our list, but the hefty package does contain one very important feature – it’s self heating. Investing in an ultra-light coffee maker might save weight in your pack, but you still need a way to heat your water. If you’re on a daytrip and not planning to set up camp, a self-heating coffee maker is going to be much more suitable. It’s also great for road trips.

This coffee maker will also do the extraction for you – no need to pump. The machine will brew directly into the attached cup in 8-10 minutes when using cold water, or around 5 seconds if you happen to have hot water handy. You’ll get 3-4 cups out of a charge when using cold water, or more with hot water.

The manufacturer claims a top pressure of 15 bars, which is more than enough for espresso. But with no option for ground coffee, you will be limited by the quality that you get from Nespresso capsules.

The heater and pump are powered by a built-in lithium battery, which can be recharged with either a wall charger or a car charger (both of which are included). It’s worth noting that you can use the Conqueco while plugged into the car charger to save battery, but not when plugged into the wall.

Find more battery operated coffee makers here.

4.  Wacaco Minipresso  

• Works with: Ground coffee or Nespresso pods

The Wacaco Minipresso, while not quite as impressive as its younger brother the Nanopresso, is still a rugged machine that delivers delicious espresso. If you’re on a budget but absolutely demand proper espresso, this machine will meet your needs.

The pumping action is a bit stiffer than its competitors, but the underlying mechanism is durable and easy to clean. The one major downside is you’ll have to select whether you want to brew from coffee grounds or from Nespresso pods before you buy – there are separate models for each brewing method.

Read our full Minipresso review .

5. KFLOW Portable Espresso Maker

• Works with: Ground coffee, Nespresso capsules, Dolce Gusto capsules (separate machines)

Ground coffee and original Nespresso capsules are the most common brewing options for portable espresso machines, but the K-FLOW stands out as working with Dolce Gusto capsules too. These are all separate models, but you can purchase adapters from the company that would allow you to have multiple options with the same machine.

Even if you don’t need that kind of flexibility, the KFLOW is a great travel companion, with a clever, compact design. The BPA-free plastic coffee maker folds down to a tiny 6.3 inches long. Once unpacked it reveals two travel cups, and a stand that gives you a sturdy base for pumping. 

The ground coffee model will fit up to 12g of coffee in the filter basket, so this isn’t your best option if you like double shots. All models have a water tank of 110 ml, which is the size of a Nespresso lungo.

6. Wacaco Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker

• Works with: Ground coffee 

Wacaco has emerged as the go-to brand for portable espresso makers, with each model aimed at a different traveler. The latest, the Picopresso, is the most “pro-oriented”.

This mainly comes down to the larger 52 mm filter basket (compared to 39 mm on the Nanopresso), which will hold the 18 g needed for a good double espresso. It’s also non-pressurized, which will help deliver that rich crema.

On paper, it’s more compact than the other Wacaco machines at just 4.17 inches long, but it is the only one not to include an integrated cup. The Picopresso comes with a range of extra tools including a funnel to help load the filter basket, a tamper and a distribution tool. It makes for a more professional brewing experience, but there’s more for you to potentially misplace in transit. 

Being a machine for the connoisseur, it’s assumed that you’ll be grinding your own beans for the Picopresso. To get the best results from the machine you’ll need an ultra-fine grind, far finer than what you’ll get from pre-packaged ground coffee.

Here’s a more detailed Wacaco Picopresso review . You can also watch Steven from Home Grounds use and review the Picopresso in this video:

7.  Wacaco Pipamoka

• Heat Source: Requires external heat source.

Wacaco’s latest travel espresso maker (released in 2019), Pipamoka, is another irresistible delight from their production. This all-in-one coffee maker is entirely hand-operated; it brews up to 236 ml of coffee that you drink instantly after twisting the ring for vacuum-pressured coffee extraction. 

Pipamoka is also a thermal cup that keeps your coffee hot for hours. Thus, it’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, long walks, or traveling. Additionally, its reusable stainless steel microfilter makes it environment friendly, which is always a big plus.

As with other Wacaco products, Pipamoka comes with additional equipment: a carrying bag, funnel, scoop, brush, warranty card, and instruction book. 

Just make sure always to have a source of hot water when using it, and you’re ready to go.

8.  Staresso SP-200  

• Works with: Ground coffee and Nespresso pods (Note: In order to use Nespresso pods the user must poke holes in the pods manually.)

If you are looking to drink your espresso by its lonesome, then other espresso makers on this list will probably be a better choice. However, if your morning pick-me-up involves foamed milk, then the Staresso Portable Espresso Machine is your only portable option that brews espresso and foams milk. An added perk to the Staresso is that if you are traveling light you won’t need to bring a cup as one is built into the machine.

When you’re done, cleanup is a breeze and involves a simple rinsing with warm water. Cleanup is slightly more involved if you find yourself making milk-based beverages, but the company recommends using an alcohol and water solution to ensure a complete rinse.

Some people have noticed that the pumping action of the Staresso is more difficult than other pump-style machines like the Wacaco Nanopresso and Minipresso, so if you have limited hand strength or dexterity you may want to consider foregoing this particular model. The difficulty in pumping seems to increase over time, leading some to doubt its long-term reliability, but the 2-year manufacturer’s warranty offers some peace of mind.

How To Choose the Right Portable Espresso gadget

Don’t just purchase based on size or style. There are a few things you should understand about the portable espresso market ( 1 ).

How important is portability (and weight) for you?

When it comes to deciding on bringing a coffee brewer on your trip, weight may be the deciding factor if you’re highly mobile (i.e. a ‘digital nomad’). Nobody in their right mind would bring a traditional home espresso maker  with them, but the portable options do vary greatly in weight too.

Watch Steven from Home Grounds review four great portable espresso makers of various weights in this video:

While all of the espresso makers below are ‘portable’ (in that they come with carrying cases, are durable, and compact), they vary considerably in weight. Some are light enough to reasonably bring along on a multi-day hike, while others are better suited to less weight dependent ventures like canoe camping or an airline’s checked luggage.

Ultra Light (<340 grams)

If you intend on backpacking or hiking and waking up to a shot of espresso in a new location daily; then ultra light is the ideal option (unless you are a glutton for both espresso and punishment). Most backpackers tolerate instant coffee as an adequate substitute for the real thing, but we’re here to drink espresso so let’s just assume that isn’t going to cut it.

The lightest portable espresso makers are in the 220-340 gram (8-12 ounce) range and if you pack well can easily be accommodated on a multi-day trek. Have more than one person coming along? Perfect, have them carry some of your gear and treat them to a shot of espresso each morning for their trouble.

This thing will come with you anywhere. But read our reviews below – it has one major drawback.

Light (340-500 grams)

If you intend on taking your espresso maker everywhere except on multi-day hikes, then this weight will be perfect. At this weight, your espresso maker is light enough to toss in an overnight bag, a checked bag, or even a purse without encumbering you.

Portable (>500 grams)

Above half a kilogram portability becomes a function of ease of use, packability, and durability more than weight. These units are best used when based out of a car, a camper, or brought to a vacation house. If you’re the type that will not sacrifice on quality, and travel a little more slowly, this is your weight class.

Does it take ground coffee, pods, or both?

The machines shown below variously brew coffee using ground coffee beans, ESE pods, and Nespresso pods. In my experience, ESE and Nespresso pods are the best choices for camping as they allow the easiest cleanup.

“Leave No Trace” – If you pack it in, pack it out. Coffee grounds might be biodegradable, but don’t leave them at your campsite!

The ability to use ground coffee is a considerable boon as pods are nearly impossible to find outside of major metropolitan areas. Getting to your campsite and realizing you forgot your pods can spell disaster if your espresso maker can’t handle ground coffee. All of the models featured below are able to brew with ground coffee.

Some of the espresso makers listed here can also brew tea – but since brewing tea typically only requires hot water and a tea bag, it shouldn’t be a deal breaker.

Is it covered by warranty?

Espresso makers have a tough jobs. Nearly boiling water, hundreds of PSI, and lots of tiny sealing surfaces all working together. Sometimes they just give up. Wouldn’t you? A warranty brings peace of mind – letting you know that the company that made the gadget you plunked down the better part of a hundred bucks for has faith in its quality control and is willing to repair or replace any failed units.

All of the espresso makers in the following list come with at least a one year warranty, and the incredibly built Flair Signature comes with a 5-year warranty. Typically, warranties do not cover o-rings, glass parts, or other wear surfaces, but if these parts fail they can usually be replaced without much effort or cost.

Don’t forget; You’ll need a Heat Source

One thing that makes most of these espresso makers portable is that they are entirely manual coffee machines. This means that you provide all of the impetus to turn water into espresso. In most cases, this includes heating the water. Some of these espresso makers are indifferent to how you heat the water: microwave, stovetop, grill, whatever. Others, like the aluminum Bialetti Moka Express, can’t be used with a microwave or with induction stovetops.

If finding some way to heat the water is a problem there are a few options that will take care of that step for you – but they will require access to an electrical socket.

These espresso makers work best when they have been preheated. Just like your home espresso maker, a cold machine will result in tepid and unpleasant espresso!

Why not watch our video from below, to see what coffee making on the road looks like? We cover various brewing methods, guaranteed to please everyone.

The Verdict

The best portable espresso maker for you is mainly going to depend on exactly how portable you need it to be, but if you have the space, we recommend considering the Flair Signature Espresso . The espresso shots that you get out of this will stand up to any full sized espresso machine, so you won’t have to sacrifice quality while you’re away from home.

Are Nespresso capsules recyclable?

Nespresso capsules are recyclable, but only by returning them to Nespresso. This can be done via capsule collection points, Espresso stores or a post. In some countries such as Germany, Sweden, Finland, the capsules can be placed in household recycling bins.

Is there a portable espresso maker with built-in grinder?

There isn’t a portable espresso maker with built-in grinder, but you might find this feature on portable pour over or French press coffee makers. For a portable espresso maker, you can use a travel grinder, or grind your beans before you leave home.

What is the best coffee thermos?

The best coffee thermos is durable with excellent heat retention. We like the Stanley Classic Volume Bottle, which can keep liquids hot for up to 24 hours. A thermos is a great option to use with a portable espresso maker if you don’t have a way to heat water when hiking.

• Hand powered portable espresso machine – Outdoors coffee maker. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.wacaco.com/pages/nanopresso
• Portable Espresso Machines Market Forecast, Trend Analysis, & Competition Tracking – Global Review 2019 to 2029. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.factmr.com/report/3876/portable-espresso-machines-market
• Espresso Coffee. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.coffeeresearch.org/espresso/definitions.htm

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We take the accuracy of our content very seriously. We understand that our readers rely on us for precise and trustworthy information, and we are committed to meeting that expectation. Our fact-checking process is rigorous and thorough, designed to ensure that every piece of information we share is accurate, up-to-date, and reliable.

Every article we publish undergoes a stringent fact-checking procedure. To complement our own first hand experience, we draw from reputable sources within the industry, including coffee communities such as the coffee and espresso SubReddits, and a number of specialty coffee forums and private groups.

Our editors cross-reference every claim, statistic, and piece of data with multiple sources to verify its accuracy. We also compare our own experience to community reviews to see if there is anything we may have overlooked. Any discrepancies found are flagged and corrected before the article is published.

This meticulous process ensures that the information you receive from Home Grounds is not only engaging and useful but also trustworthy and reliable. We're committed to helping you 'Brew Better Coffee', and that starts with providing you with the best, most accurate information possible.

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And we don't just talk the talk. We put our money where our mouth is, sourcing and testing all the gear you see reviewed on our site. Each recommendation we make comes from extensive personal use.

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Best Portable Coffee Makers For Camping And Travel

For us coffee lovers, travel can sometimes be a problem. If you’re lucky enough to be heading on your holidays to somewhere with a great coffee culture, then you’re in luck. But if you’re heading out on your travels with work, you don’t want to be stuck with the hotel coffee machine. And if you’re going out into nature you might think that instant (yuck) is your only hope of getting coffee on the road. 

Because we know coffee lovers have very particular tastes, and that there’s more than one way to travel, we’ve tried to break this guide down so you can find what works best for you. 

Best Portable Coffee Makers

Of course there are alternatives to taking a brewer on the road - you could pre batch enough cold brew to last for example, or bite the bullet and drink coffee like a cowboy. Or you could go with a dedicated and portable coffee maker. We think we know what you'd prefer, so here are a few of the best portable coffee makers.

Handpresso Auto Black E.S.E.

However, if you have a portable coffee machine, if you’re moving around the country in your car or truck, then there’s no need for the coffee lover to miss out. The Handpresso Auto Black E.S.E. could well be the travel coffee maker you've been praying for. 

This little handheld wonder only needs to be plugged into the 12v cigarette lighter in your car and you can brew your own espresso wherever you’re heading. All you need is water and coffee, and you have a portable espresso machine. The Handpresso is designed for use with any 7g E.S.E pod, meaning your espresso is consistently delicious, and the clean up is super easy: just dispose of the pod. E. S. E. pods (Easy Serving Espresso pods) are similar to those used in Nespresso portable coffee makers and just as convenient.

You don’t even need to add hot water: it also has the ability to heat cold water in its mini-boiler and generate up to 16 bars of pressure, which is not far from the pressure found in commercial machines. Lightweight at 880g, and compact enough to fit into your car's cup holder, this portable coffee maker is the perfect for travel.

But that’s not all - the Handpresso outdoor case comes with a thermos and four unbreakable glasses so you have everything you could possibly need in one stylish package. 

Rok Espresso Maker

All well and good if you have the motor with you. But if you’re off camping espresso would be nice too right? What about coffee makers for campers? If you’re going properly off-grid, you can still make proper espresso as you go. In fact, it’s even more authentic this way, as the Rok Espresso Maker uses the same principles as the early espresso machines. 

The levers are used to apply pressure manually and force the water through the coffee, meaning that with the Rok Espresso maker you can make espresso without the need for a power outlet. The lever system generates between 5 and 10 bars of pressure, and the double spout portafilter means you can brew for you and a friend at the same time. 

Built from engine grade aluminium, the Rok is both lightweight and extremely hard-wearing, and comes with a 10-year guarantee just to make the point. All you need is coffee and hot water and your very own espresso machine is good to go. 

Flair Espresso Maker

Unsurprisingly, this also means the Flair makes strong, creamy and crema topped espresso just as you would expect from your local barista. 

And it’s easy to use whether you’ve made espresso before or not. Simply fill the basket with freshly ground coffee, reattach the head, and fill with hot water. Press down on the handle, and within 25-45 seconds, your espresso will be ready. 

Bellman Espresso Steamer CX-25p

The coffee is brewed in a similar manner to a moka pot or other stove top espresso maker. What makes the Bellman unique though, is that it also generates steam for frothing milk. And with the ability to make up to 9 shots at once, you can make campside coffee for all the family or your friends in one hit. 

Just place the water in the chamber and coffee in the basket, reattach the top and place on the stove. You’ll know when the pressure is high enough to brew as the green indicator will turn on to let you know. At this point all you need to do is open the tap and your espresso will be released. 

What's The Difference Between Nanopresso And Minipresso?

Well, as the name suggests, it is a little smaller, roughly 2cm shorter than the original. Despite this, the capacity of the water chamber was increased, to 80ml. It is also 26 grams lighter than the original. So, in terms of portability and ease of travel, the Nanopresso is a decent improvement on the original. 

But of course, size isn’t everything. What really stood out about the Minipresso was the quality of espresso it was able to produce. This was partly to do with the amount of pressure applied to the water as it was forced through the coffee grounds. So it’s undoubtedly a big plus that the Nanopresso is capable of producing up to 18 bars of pressure, which puts it right alongside a commercial coffee machine.

Providing an already impressive 16 bars of pressure (232 PSI), the Minipresso required the user to apply a force equal to 13.6 kg (30 lbs). Compared with the Nanopresso, which only requires a force of 11.6 kg, that’s a 2 kg difference.

Portable Nespresso Machine With Nespresso Capsules

The Nanopresso already does everything the Nespresso machine does. And they’ve made the Nanopresso NS Adaptor so that you can fit your Nespresso pods directly into the machine, so you can enjoy your favourite coffee wherever you are with your very own Nespresso travel machine.

Camping Coffee Makers

If you're the designated camp coffee maker, then you need the right tools. Luckily there are a variety of other options if none of the above took your fancy so you can find your perfect camping coffee maker.

Aeropress Go Coffee Maker

The lightweight and ultra-durable design mean the Aeropress is perfect for packing up. The plastic construction means this innovative coffee maker won’t shatter or break when it’s packed tightly. Aeropress coffee is also thick and rich like espresso, which is why many espresso lovers opt for this when on the road. The other major plus of the Aeropress is its affordability. Not surprising, when you consider that the Aeropress is basically two plastic tubes. The lack of moving parts means this is super cheap to produce, but it also means there’s really nothing that can easily break. 

The Aeropress also has the magical ability to self-clean, which is useful if you find yourself far from a running tap or faucet! To use the Aeropress when camping, all you need is coffee, water, and a stove to heat.

Camping Coffee Percolator

All you need to do is add the water to the lower chamber, and then place the basket containing the coffee on top of this. Screw on the top chamber and place on a low heat. If you pop the lid, you can watch the coffee as it begins to bubble up into the upper chamber. If it’s too quick, lower the heat. As soon as the upper chamber is close to full, remove from the heat and pour. See our moka pot coffee brewing guide for more great tips.

Best Travel Coffee Makers

Whatever your preference there is a travel coffee maker for you. The OXO Venture French Press is built to be able to stand up to the rigours of the road (and being carried in luggage) and can be used anywhere you can access hot water. 

So whether you’re camping out or stuck in a hotel for the night, with a travel french press you can still start your morning with your favourite style of brew. 

Travel Mugs

And if you’re heading into nature to enjoy it, the least you could do is to do your little bit to preserve it, so that future generations can drink their favourite brews in the great outdoors too. 

If you’ve been wondering what’s the best way of enjoying coffee on your camping trips, your commute or just while you’re away from home, we hope you’ve found something here that helps. What’s definite is that whatever your favourite brew, there is a way of making it on the road, and without cutting corners. If you’re planning a trip and you haven’t yet made your coffee arrangements, check out our full range of travel coffee makers and accessories today. 

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6 Best Travel Coffee Kits to Take with You Everywhere

It is almost impossible for a caffeinated mind to have a good day without a good cup of coffee. Being on the road is not an excuse for most coffee aficionados to miss their much-needed dose of coffee. If you don’t have a lot of space for various devices, a coffee kit is a perfect solution.

We rounded up 6 of the best travel coffee kits with the Soulhand USB Electric 5 in 1 Travel Coffee Grinder as our Editor’s Choice in this guide. One of the most important considerations while choosing a travel coffee kit is the type of coffee maker, the three most common: pour-over, press, and pump. Another essential aspect is the durability of the kit. The finest long-lasting materials to consider are stainless steel and ABS plastic. They’re simple to maintain and can endure a lot of use.

• Quick Summary
• Editor’s Choice: Soulhand USB Electric 5 in 1 Travel Coffee Grinder "Excellent travel coffee kit with grinder and sturdy travelling case. 15 oz brewing capacity. 180 min charging time. 2 lbs weight."
• Best for Picnic: Picnic at Ascot Travel Coffee Tote "Travel coffee kit that can be a useful item for a meal in a park. 24 oz brewing capacity. 2.5 lbs weight. Stainless steel mugs included."
• Best Value: Espro Coffee Travel Press "Save some money while getting this French press travel coffee kit. 12 oz brewing capacity. Stainless steel cup. 1.5 lbs weight."
• Best Aeropress Travel Kit: AeroPress Go Portable Travel Coffee Press "Famous Aeropress travel coffee kit that is easy to use outdoors. 8 oz brewing capacity. Comes with 350 filters. 11.5 oz weight."
• Best Pour Over Travel Kit: Oranlife Pour Over Coffee Maker Set "Pour over travel coffee kit that can make your outdoors mornings the freshest. 14 oz brewing capacity. Stainless steel filter. 1 lbs weight."
• Best Espresso Travel Kit: CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker "Capsule coffee maker for a quick shot of espresso on a hiking morning. 1.6 oz brewing capacity. 5 seconds of brewing time. 3.3 lbs weight."

Top 6 Travel Coffee Kits Review 2024

Soulhand USB Electric 5 in 1 Travel Coffee Grinder

• Type: drip + grinder
• Capacity: 15 oz
• Weight: 2.02 lbs
• Charging time: 180 min
• Dimensions: 11.02 x 4.53 in

More features: working light indicator, car charger compatible, 5 grinding options, double mesh filter, 1200 mAh battery capacity

This tops our list for all the right reasons. First off, it is incredibly affordable. It is one of the best budget options in the market. Moreover, the Soulhand all-in-one-pour-over coffee maker comes in a functional design that offers unparalleled convenience. It includes a manual grinder, a drip kettle, a thermal carafe, and a stainless steel filter which is literally everything you need to make coffee.

The all-in-one coffee maker is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a low budget yet high-quality travel coffee kit. It is remarkably lightweight yet functional. Soulhand is also very simple to use and clean. Although it has a small brewing capacity, you will be able to make plenty of coffee in a short period of time because it is fast.

• the first thing we found impressive about the Soulhand travel coffee kit is its convenient all-in-one design. It includes everything you need to make the best coffee. We also liked how easy it is to detach its parts for easy cleaning. What’s more, the unit comes with 5 grinding options allowing you to customize your drink to your preference. If you love to grind your freshly roasted coffee beans then it should be your prime choice.
• the Soulhand USB Electric 5 in 1 Travel Coffee Grinder has all the bells and whistles but it has a flip side. Two things we didn’t like about the travel coffee kit; one, it has a very small brewing capacity. If you have a crew or tea that loves coffee in your car you are going to have to do more rounds to serve them all and that can be a bummer. Second, we didn’t like that you have to heat water separately.

Picnic at Ascot Travel Coffee Tote

• Type: container
• Capacity: 24 oz
• Weight: 2.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 13.5 x 8 x 3.5 in

More features: 2 stainless steel mugs (7 oz) and spoons included, lifetime warranty

This is one of the best coffee and tea totes out there. It is not a coffee maker per se but a container that allows you to make a god cup of coffee when you are in the outdoor with your loved one. The kit includes 2 stainless steel mugs, spoons, napkin wipes, and a brushed stainless steel vacuum flask. The cups are insulated and double-walled to keep your drink hot for long.

The Picnic at Ascot Travel Coffee Tote comes in a unique and original design that makes a great gift for coffee lovers. It is perfect for picnic lovers. The flask can carry enough hot water, milk, or ready-made coffee for two. The kit is super lightweight, coming in at a mere 2.5 pounds. You can easily carry it around. Plus, it comes with a rugged polyester carrying case that has an adjustable shoulder strap. It’s not only easy to tote around, but also looks so cool.

• We found the Picnic at Ascot Travel Coffee Tote super convenient, especially for picnic goers. It is an all-inclusive coffee kit, yet very compact and discreet. No one would guess you are carrying a whole flask of coffee, 2 cups, and spoons. We also liked its build quality. The stainless steel components are guaranteed to last you a lifetime. They are also easy to clean. Another praiseworthy feature is the easy pour push button on the flask.
• with all the amazing features of the Picnic at Ascot Travel Coffee Tote it is hard to spot its downsides. The only thing we didn’t like about this coffee kit is that when you run out of coffee that’s it. You’d have to wait to make some more coffee to fill it up which isn’t the case with other travel coffee maker kits that are designed to make coffee any place, any time.

Espro Coffee Travel Press

• Type: press
• Capacity: 12 oz
• Weight: 1.5 lbs

More features: stainless steel cup, double filter, BPA, BPS, and phthalate free

This is one of the most versatile options you can settle for. The Espro Coffee Travel Press does a lot more than just brew you the best cup of coffee. It can steep tea and keep your drinks hot for long periods without leaking. The coffee press is ultra-lightweight. It weighs only 1.5 pounds. It has a capacity of 12 ounces but can only brew 10 ounces.

The Espro Coffee Travel Press offers excellent value for money. It is a fantastic option for anyone who loves a good penny worth. It is also a prime option for anyone who’d love their coffee hot for longer periods. It comes with a vacuum-insulated stainless steel interior that ensures you can travel long distances without needing a re-heat. If you love fine and smooth coffee, then this coffee travel press is for you as well. It filters coffee twice and catches every grit and grind leaving you with a clean, oil-free product.

• Besides offering excellent value for money with its top-notch features, there are a few more things we loved about the Espro Coffee Travel Press like its multiple color options. If you love a coffee mug that matches your style then you will love freedom of choice offered by Espro. We also liked the unit’s BPS, BPA and phthalate free filters that produce a clean grit, grind and oil-free coffee.
• some of the things we didn’t like about the Espro Coffee Travel Press include its commute-unfriendly and café-unfriendly nature. You cannot drink coffee from the mug with one hand during your commute. You must use 2 hands to drink from it and this may be inconvenient for bikers or people who drive to work. Also, getting a coffee refill from a café may be a challenge because of its design and capacity.

AeroPress Go Portable Travel Coffee Press

• Capacity: 8 oz
• Weight: 11.5 oz

More features: 350 filters included, 14 gr scoop capacity

This is one of the most popular travel coffee makers on the market. It makes hella fine cups of coffee. Aeropress is also a famous brand and the AeroPress Go Portable Travel Coffee Press is one of the latest additions to their lineup. The Go is very compact and lightweight. It is barely bigger than a standard coffee mug but it is entirely self-contained.

The Aeropress Go sets itself apart from its peers with an infinitely customizable brewing process. With coffee, water, and pressure, you can experiment until you get the kind of coffee that suits your tastes. It is also very forgiving. You can never make a bad cup of coffee with the Aeropress Go. It is perfect for anyone who loves smooth delicious coffee without a stinging bitterness common with coffee made by sow brewing methods like French press.

• the first thing we fell in love with is the easy and convenient design of the AeroPress Go. We also loved how versatile it is. You can brew hot coffee or espresso in no time as well as make cold brew in less than 2 minutes. Moreover, you can make up to 3 cups of coffee per press and with the mug and lid that double as a traveling case taking coffee on the go will never be easier.
• we only wish the Aerospress Go’s had a larger capacity. Aeropress claims you can make 1 to 3 cups of coffee with one press. They probably mean shots instead of cups. We filled up the press to the maximum level and it only filled our standard coffee cup halfway. Another thing we didn’t like is how small the edge that rests on the cup for a press is. It can’t fit on some cups.

Oranlife Pour Over Coffee Maker Set

• Type: pour over
• Capacity: 14 oz
• Weight: 1 lbs

More features: stainless steel filter, glass mug

When it comes to travel pour-over coffee makers, this is the pick of the bunch. The Oranlife Pour-over Coffee Maker Set comes in an elegant, modern, compact design. It comes with everything you would need to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee anywhere from a Borosilicate glass mug to a stainless steel filter and portable protective case.

The Oranlife Pour over Coffee Maker Set distinguishes itself with its ability to keep coffee fresh. Its glass carafe coffee pitcher has a unique design that keeps out any residues or odors regardless of how strong your brew is. This means you will always enjoy the purest coffee flavors. If you hate to feel strange odors or flavors in your coffee this is your best bet.

• we had a love at first sight moment with the Oranlife Pour over Coffee Maker Set’s portable and durable case. It is aesthetically pleasant, super-convenient and practical. We also loved that the set is made with 100% safe food-grade materials that protect both your body and the environment. The idea of having the purest flavor of your favorite coffee is hard to beat. Not so many portable coffee makers offer such a privilege.
• the Oranlife Pour over Coffee Maker Set falls short in few area. The first downside we experienced was the travel case zipper. We noticed the zipper is not the best quality as it slipped and jammed easily. This can render the entire set useless if it pops open when moving. We also found the glass mug not fit for the rough unpredictable on-the-road use. It requires you to be extra-careful.

CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker

• Type: capsule coffee maker
• Capacity: 1.6 oz
• Weight: 3.3 lbs
• Charging time: 4.5hrs

More features: 15 bar pressure, 5 sec brewing time, 199°F water heating temperature

This is one of the best travel coffee makers that scream the possibility of making delicious coffee outdoors. The CONQUECO is a fully automatic coffee maker that is super easy to use and carry around. Essentially, it is a portable espresso machine with 15 bar pressure and a rechargeable battery. It comes with a car charger that you can use to charge and heat in the outdoors and a home charger.

The CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker was made with espresso lovers in mind. Getting a delicious espresso shot is as simple as pressing a switch button after adding the coffee capsules and water. Cleaning it is equally simple. You only need to press a button for 5 seconds to run the machine without coffee capsules.

• we loved that this portable espresso machine comes with 2 chargers that make its use in the outdoors and indoors possible. The car charger allows you to make your espresso shots just the way you love them whenever you are away from home of the office. The home charger allows you to make espresso at home or in the office. We also loved that it is super-easy to use and clean.
• the CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker is good in all ways but there are a few things that could make it a better portable espresso machine. One; it doesn’t heat cold water. You have to start with very hot water, which again takes time to heat. It’s just impractical and annoying. Another thing is it produces a relatively small amount of espresso. The amount produces is far from the standard espresso shot quantity.

• Things to Consider

There are so many coffee travel kits on the market and without adequate information, you may end up choosing one that doesn’t meet your needs. This detailed buying guide has all the hints and tips on how to choose the best travel coffee kit to get the best bang for your bucks.

• Can You Make Delicious Coffee Outdoors?

Thanks to advancements in technology there are myriad portable coffee makers on the market now that allow you to enjoy delicious coffee outdoors. Travel coffee kits with a travel coffee maker , a grinder, and a travel mug or thermos among other items, it is possible to make great tasting coffee when you are out camping, backpacking, or on a picnic. But have few helpful tips for you:

• Use quality coffee beans –add your favorite aroma and taste to enjoy every sip.
• Pre-grind – if your travel coffee maker doesn’t have a grinder or you can’t buy portable grinders – just take some ground coffee with you.
• Find a great view – coffee will taste better if you enjoy every second of your hiking trip

How to Pick the Best Travel Coffee Kit

Here are a few crucial aspects to look for when choosing the best travel coffee kit.

• What’s included

A complete and convenient travel coffee kit should have the following items;

A coffee maker – this is what will do the actual coffee brewing. There are different types of coffee makers and different coffee kits come with different kinds. You should choose one that can make your favorite type of coffee.

Coffee beans – Without coffee beans or coffee grounds you can’t have coffee. Most manufacturers don’t include coffee beans in the coffee kit. When packing the kit, ensure you have some coffee.

Grinder – for most coffee lovers, coffee making begins at grinding coffee beans. Get a kit that comes with a compact yet productive grinder.

Flask/thermos/travel mug – when traveling, you will hardly have the time to make yourself a fresh cup of coffee whenever you want. A travel mug or thermos will keep your coffee hot for later use.

Other things that aren’t that necessary but will enhance your on-the-go coffee-making experience include; a coffee scale, a cleaning brush, and a carrying case.

• Coffee maker type

It is important that you choose a coffee kit with a coffee maker that can make your favorite style of coffee. You may not be able to make the smoothest cappuccinos in the wilderness but just ensure it is close to what would make you happy. Pour-over, press, and pump coffee makers are the most common portable coffee makers.

• Coffee type compatibility

You must know the type of coffee Trusted Source Pure and Highly Concentrated Caffeine FDA addresses the potentially dangerous effects of pure powdered caffeine. www.fda.gov you can use with the coffee maker in your kit. For instance, the CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker is only compatible with the original line Nespresso capsules and L’OR capsules.

• Grinding possibility

The best coffee is made with the freshest ingredients. If you love fresh coffee with a pure flavor then it is recommended that you get a travel coffee kit that includes a high-quality hand burr grinder.

• Portability

This is a top consideration. A portable coffee kit should be lightweight, compact and durably built. It should be easy to carry and withstand the harsh and unpredictable on-the-go experience Trusted Source Mountains and Caffeine Effects of Caffeine at High Altitude highaltitudehealth.com .

• Ease of use

On the road, it is highly unlikely that you will have enough time to get through with a complicated brewing process. Prioritize ease of use and cleaning when choosing a travel coffee kit. The brewing process should also be fast enough.

Durability is key as you will be using the kit in transit. Go for kits with solidly built components. Stainless steel and ABS plastic are the best durable materials you should consider. They are easy to clean and can hold up well to consistent travelling.

Travel coffee kits come with different price points depending on the brand and components of the kit. Go for a kit that offers excellent value for money like the Espro Coffee Travel Press . Some brands are pricier than other because they are popular. A higher price doesn’t necessarily translate to better quality.

• Which is the most reliable coffee travel kit?
• How to clean coffee travel bags?

On the storage bags avoid using spot removers, bleach, or cleaning solvents.

• Our verdict

Travel coffee kits are the best thing to ever happen to any coffee lover out there. Anyone who can’t miss their dose of coffee no matter the circumstances can invest in the best coffee travel kit. So much goes into choosing the best travel coffee kit that can meet your needs and is within your budget. Our detailed guide has all the tips you need to make a choice you’d never regret. Our product line-up, for instance, has everything for someone.

Our best overall choice, the Soulhand USB Electric 5 in 1 Travel Coffee Grinder is the best all-around kit that money can buy. It is reasonably priced and has everything you would need for a wholesome coffee-making experiencing in the outdoors.

Our second-best choice, Picnic at Ascot Travel Coffee Tote is the best kit you can get if you love picnics. It is a perfect size for two and has everything you need to serve coffee. Our third pick, the Espro Coffee Travel Press is the best you can get if you love a good penny worth. It is one of the best portable press coffee makers on the market.

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The 9 Best Coffee Makers of 2024

These coffee makers will help kick start your day.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

The Bottom Line

• What to Know Before Shopping

Our Testing Process

Your questions, answered.

Better Homes & Gardens / Russell Kilgore

Say goodbye to your favorite barista—you won’t be back for a while once you upgrade your at-home coffee routine . Whether you’re looking for a programmable coffee maker or you’re interested in perfecting the perfect cup of pour-over coffee, we found the best coffee makers and espresso machines you’ll be glad you have every morning.

We tested several of the top rated coffee makers on the market through four separate testing processes to determine which coffee makers were the best of the best. Here are our choices for the best coffee machines and espresso makers.

We tested the first three products on our list and considered factors such as performance, taste, design, ease of use, and ease of cleaning .

For more information on how we tested air purifiers in our lab, check out  our testing process   below.

Best Drip Coffee Machine

Oxo brew 9-cup coffee maker.

This coffee maker has a double-walled stainless steel carafe that keeps coffee warm for hours.

This coffee maker delivers best with freshly ground coffee as opposed to pre-ground coffee.

The OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker is perfect for someone who makes coffee on a regular basis and enjoys large batches of high quality coffee. 

Its sleek design is made of high quality, double-walled stainless steel and plastic. The carafe kept the coffee warm throughout testing and would be perfect for someone making coffee to last throughout the day.

The first thing we noticed during testing was how lightweight and easy to use the machine was. The coffee maker has an “On” button, but the brew cycle will not auto-start without pressing one of the brew options.

The dial on the front of the coffee maker allows the user to choose how many cups are being brewed, program the time, and set an automatic wakeup timer. The instruction manual even includes insights into how to brew the perfect cup of coffee, which we saw as a major plus. 

We were blown away by the quality of the coffee at each testing level. All of the brew batches from the first three testing levels were consistently great. Even though the flavor did become more bitter over the course of the 60-minute mark, the coffee was still enjoyable.

However, we did find during our testing that the coffee made from pre-ground coffee grounds was not up to the same quality as the other brews. The pre-ground coffee was very bitter and unenjoyable. For the best results, grind your own coffee grounds so they are fresh and flavorful. 

Product Details: Size: 8.3 x 15 x 17.2 inches | Brewing Capacity: 45 ounces | Tank Capacity: Not listed | Ground or Pods: Ground

Best Budget

Mr. coffee mini brew coffee maker.

This coffee maker provides up to 5 cups of coffee with the touch of a button.

The flavor of the coffee declined over time after sitting in the carafe on the hot plate.

For those looking for a quality coffee maker that’s simple to use and fits a budget, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker is our top choice. We found during testing that it was so easy to use and made a flavorful cup of coffee.

The coffee maker is lightweight and compact, making it perfect for kitchens with limited storage space . Its straight forward design allows the user to make a delicious batch of coffee with the press of a button.

Throughout our testing, we found the coffee batches were surprisingly balanced. Each pot of coffee we brewed with this coffee maker provided a full and well-balanced batch of coffee. We noticed bright and pleasant aromatics and flavor extraction from the grounds as we tasted the coffee.

However, the main downside we found was because of the coffee maker’s hot plate, the coffee consistently became more bitter and acrid tasting as time went on. By the 30 and 60 minute marks of all three tests, the coffee continued to decline in flavor. 

Overall, we were very impressed with this coffee maker’s performance during testing. For the price point and simplicity of the design, it provided a consistent cup of coffee that any coffee drinker will enjoy. 

Product Details: Size: 10.7 x 9.8 x 7.2 inches | Brewing Capacity: 40 ounces | Tank Capacity: Not listed | Ground or pods: Ground

Better Homes & Gardens / Will Dickey

Best French Press

Espro p3 french press coffee maker.

This French press is built with an ultra fine, double-filter construction that provides a top quality brew of coffee every time.

The carafe could have fit tighter into the body of the French press.

“I also appreciate a nice French press, which is what we call a full-emersion method where the grinds steep in water like a tea,” says Dan Bailey with Amavida Coffee Roasters . “Once pressed down the extraction process stops. French press coffee also tends to have more body as there are no paper filters to trap the natural oils. Paired with the right coffee, the French press is a great experience.”

Through our testing process we determined the Espro P3 French Press Coffee Maker was the best French press for those who prefer to steep their coffee.

When we tasted the coffee from the French press, we were impressed that the flavor was well balanced, and it was clean and smooth in quality. There was little to no bitterness or acidity at all throughout testing, and we found each cup consistently provided us with that same high-quality flavor.

We appreciated the design of the plunger, which was made of a sheer silicone material that felt secure and was easy to push down. The design of the French press was easy to assemble and clean, which was a major perk. 

We felt this was the clear winner in terms of price point and quality of construction. Of all the French presses we tested, this was our favorite because its ultra-fine, double-filter construction provides a consistent, high-quality brew. Our one note was the carafe could have a tighter fit when inserted into the body of the French press.

Product Details: Size: 4.2 x 6.6 x 9.9 inches  | Brewing Capacity: 32 ounces | Tank Capacity: Not listed | Ground or Pods: Ground

For the following six coffee makers, we extensively researched the products to provide additional options for our readers. We considered details like size and capacity, design, and features .

Best Espresso Machine

De'longhi la specialista prestigio espresso machine.

It has a built-in grinder and smart tamping and temperature controls. Plus, some parts are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean.

It's larger than some other traditional coffee makers, so you'll need to ensure you have enough counter space for it.

If you prefer espresso drinks over traditionally brewed coffees, the best espresso machine is the La Specialista Prestigio by DeLonghi. Although it's an investment, this model makes it simple to grind, brew, and steam your way to a perfect cappuccino.

With three temperature settings, an even infusion of water, and more control over extraction, this machine delivers a quality espresso. It's due in part to its built-in technology, which ensures the optimal dose and grind size are being released. There's also a steam wand that'll produce the proper milk texture for cafe-like cappuccinos and flat whites.

The espresso machine features a dual heat system, so there's no wait time between brewing the espresso and frothing your milk. Plus, the stainless steel design and dishwasher-safe parts make it easy to clean , so it'll always look nice on your countertop.

Product Details: Size: 14.48 x 15 x 17.5 inches | Brewing Capacity: 2 ounces | Tank Capacity: 67 ounces | Ground or Pods: Ground

Best Stovetop Espresso Pot

Bialetti moka express.

It's less expensive than other options and is a traditional way to brew.

You brew the coffee on the stovetop, which requires you to be more vigilant than using a programmable drip coffee maker.

The Moka pot is the best espresso machine for the coffee lover who wants a stylish and traditional option without a high-end price point. The lightweight unit makes enough espresso for two to three people, so you'll be able to make cappuccinos and lattes for guests as well.

The aluminum design features three chambers and is fairly simple to use. All you have to do is add water to the base and coffee grounds to the center. Then, you set it on the stovetop and ignite it. Steam and pressure push the hot water up through the coffee grounds into the top chamber where the espresso collects.

The espresso maker is less expensive than other options and is on the smaller side, so it won't take up much space on your counter or stove between uses. Just keep in mind that the pieces will have to be hand-washed after each use to keep the pieces in good condition.

Product Details: Size: 5.6 x 4 x 6.7 inches | Brewing Capacity: 6 ounces | Tank Capacity: 6.5 ounces | Ground or Pods: Ground

Best Combination Coffee Maker

Ninja dualbrew pro system coffee maker.

You can brew a cup, a carafe, or a cappuccino with this multi-option coffeemaker. Plus, there's a hot water option so you can make hot tea or instant oatmeal.

With so many different sizes and brewing options, it may take a few tries for you to feel familiar with all the operations of the machine.

If you're looking for an all-in-one specialty coffee machine, the best coffee machine to consider is the Ninja DualBrew. The coffee machine can brew a cup with a coffee pod or an entire carafe from coffee grounds. Plus, in addition to 13 different brew sizes to choose from, it also has four brew settings for classic, bold, iced coffee, and specialty coffees.

One thing that makes this coffee maker stand out from other cup-to-carafe coffee makers is that it also has a built-in frothing arm that folds out. You can craft the perfect latte or cappuccino with this feature.

There's also a 60-ounce water reservoir that can be installed at the back of the machine or off to the side. This flexible configuration allows you to save counter space if you need the coffee maker to fit into a narrow space.

The hot water system is separate from the coffee dispenser so there's no cross-contamination of coffee grounds making it into your hot tea. There are two temperature settings for the hot water dispenser. This allows for boiling water to be used for oatmeal or instant soups.

Product Details: Size: 9.13 x 11.39 x 15.54 inches | Brewing Capacity: 6-12 ounces | Tank Capacity: 60 ounces | Ground or Pods: Both

Best Single Serve Coffee Maker

Keurig k-elite single serve coffee maker.

You can get your morning cup of coffee brewed in less than a minute. It also comes with a 6-pack of coffee pods.

It only works with coffee pods, so it's not as versatile as some other picks.

Convenience is what makes the Keurig Elite our top choice for a single-serve coffee maker . It's perfect for quickly filling your travel mug before running out the door in the morning. There are no beans to grind.

And, there's no wait for the water to heat up to brew a full pot of coffee—just pop in a coffee pod, and in less than a minute you can be on your way.

There are five cup size settings and options, so you'll be able to make a stronger brew, hot water, or an iced beverage. The water reservoir holds 75 ounces, making it possible to serve up several servings before needing to be refilled.

This coffee maker works with K-cups or the universal My K-Cup Reusable Coffee Filter. Although it's sold separately, the reusable filters allow you to brew any brand of coffee you prefer.

Product Details: Size: 9.9 x 12.7 x 13.1 inches | Brewing Capacity: 4-12 ounces | Tank Capacity: 75 ounces | Grounds or Pods: Pods

Better Homes & Gardens / Isaac Nunn

Best Pour Over Coffee Maker

Hario v60 ceramic coffee dripper.

Its simple design makes it easy to craft a high-quality cup of coffee without any expensive equipment.

It takes a few extra minutes to brew pour-over coffee, and it only brews one serving of coffee at a time.

The Hario V60 Ceramic Coffee Dripper is the best coffee machine if you want an experience to savor. The pour-over style is offered in two sizes and colors and includes the essentials to make it a part of your morning ritual.

The Hario V60 pour-over coffee maker is made of ceramic, which helps hold the coffee's temperature while brewing. The rippled design and open single hole at the bottom allow you to select what type of coffee flavor you want.

This coffee dripper requires a cone shape filter instead of a flat-bottom filter. You can pour it directly into your mug or opt for a small carafe. For best results, you may also want to purchase a good hot water kettle and a coffee grinder to accompany this pour-over coffee maker.

Product Details: Size: 5.5 x 4.7 x 4 inches | Brewing Capacity: 5-10 ounces | Tank Capacity: Not listed | Ground or Pods: Ground

Best Cold Brew Maker

Kitchenaid cold brew coffee maker.

You can brew, store, and serve your favorite cold brew from the convenience of your refrigerator.

The unit will take up space in your refrigerator. Plus, it has to steep for 12 hours before the coffee is ready.

Fans of coffee shop cold brew will love having cold brew on tap in the fridge. This cold brew coffee maker has a reusable stainless steel steeper.

To use it, all you have to do is fill the steeper to the indicator line with your favorite coffee grounds, fill it with water, and allow it to steep for 12 hours. The slow infusion of water with the coffee grounds pulls out all the great flavors of the roast and leaves behind the stuff that can make coffee taste bitter.

Once it's done brewing, you'll have up to 28 ounces of cold brew that'll stay fresh for up to two weeks. The built-in tapper makes it convenient to grab a cold brew from the fridge anytime you want.

There is also a built-in handle that makes it simple to transport the coffee maker from the countertop to the refrigerator. It's worth noting, however, that, unlike other coffee makers, this model is meant to be refrigerated so be sure to have enough space to store it.

Product Details: Size: 7 x 8 x 6.9 inches | Brewing Capacity: 28 ounces | Tank Capacity: Not listed | Ground or Pods: Ground

After testing multiple coffee makers, our top choice was the OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker . The carafe is designed to keep coffee warm for hours, and we were surprised at how much we enjoyed the flavor of the coffee with this machine. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, we loved the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker . This no-fills coffee maker was easy to use and made coffee that had a balanced flavor profile.

What to Know about Coffee Makers Before Shopping

The first thing you need to consider while shopping for the best coffee makers and espresso machines for your home is that they come in different capacities. The capacity is the total number of cups of coffee the machine will produce during one brew cycle.

For example, a pour-over coffee maker is only going to make a cup or two of coffee while a traditional drip coffee maker can brew 9-12 cups of coffee at a time. A French press will make 3, 4, 8, or 12 4-ounce cups depending on the size you purchase.

It's worth noting that coffee makers count coffee cups in 5-ounce increments. So, if you see a coffee maker touting a capacity of 12 cups of coffee, that translates to 60 ounces of coffee.

Grounds Requirements

When choosing the best coffee maker and espresso machine, be sure to take note if the coffee machine requires a single-use coffee pod or if you need to scoop grounds into a filter or reusable brewing basket. If you like to use whole beans, an espresso machine or specialty coffee maker might have a built-in coffee bean grinder , but not all of them have this feature.

If there is a particular type of coffee you prefer, like a blond or dark roast, you should look for a coffee maker with multiple brew settings that adjust the temperature and brew time for specific types of coffee grounds.

Additional Features

When choosing a coffee maker, it's worth considering if there are any particular advanced features you prefer. Whether you need something you can program overnight to be brew automatically in the morning or you need a frother for your daily latte, there are tons of styles out there to suit your needs.

Drip Coffee Maker Methodology

We tested 18 different drip coffee makers and considered factors like performance, design, ease of use and cleaning, and durability. 

First, we measured the coffee makers’ performance by brewing freshly ground, medium roast coffee. The coffee maker was filled to maximum capacity and brewed according to manufacturer instructions.

Then, we evaluated the coffee makers’ performances brewing the minimum capacity of freshly ground medium roast coffee. We also tested their performance by making coffee at mid-range capacity, with a standard ratio of coffee to water volume. 

Finally, we evaluated each coffee maker on their design and ease of use. The coffee maker was filled to maximum capacity, and we allowed the maker to brew approximately 3 cups of coffee. 

In each testing process, we allowed the coffee to cool to 125°F to stand as a constant variable for taste comparison. Once the coffee reached the control temperature, we tasted the coffee and recorded its flavor profile.

After the coffee was tasted and the flavor profile was recorded, we allowed it to sit for 30 and 60 minutes, and at each time interval we tasted the coffee. The quality of the flavor after 30 and 60 minutes was recorded and compared to the initial taste test.

French Press Methodology

We evaluated the taste, insulation, and ease of cleaning of each French press we tested. 

To taste the flavor, we freshly ground 38 grams of coffee and let it steep for six minutes in the French press with approximately 20 ounces of water. Then, we tasted the coffee and recorded the flavor profile. For the second taste test, we did a blind measurement of the coffee grounds and compared how that particular brew compared to the first test. 

For the insulation test, we left approximately 8 ounces of coffee in the French press and measured how the temperature decreased after 10 and 30 minutes. We also washed each French press to determine how easy or difficult they were to clean.

Do all drip coffee makers taste the same?

Simply put, no, not all coffee makers taste the same. Bailey says brewing a quality cup of coffee depends on a number of different factors including water quality, quality of the coffee being brewed, grind size, ratio of coffee to water, and water temperature.

“There are so many ways to brew coffee at home that create wonderful experiences: French press, pour over, stove-top, drip coffee makers and so on,” Bailey says. “So many options and the same coffee can taste very different, depending on the brew method chosen. Regardless of these brew methods, some variables are important to produce that excellent cup.”

Is it worth buying an expensive coffee maker?

Coffee makers can vary in price depending on their design and features. However, you don’t necessarily need to buy the most expensive one available—instead consider your own needs and what you need in a coffee maker. 

If you love espresso and creating different kinds of coffee drinks, the splurge-worthy DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine may be your best option. However, for a casual coffee drinker, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker (2129512) creates a consistently flavorful cup of coffee and it costs less than $30. 

How long do coffee makers last?

A quality coffee maker can last upwards of five years. Be sure to routinely clean and provide any manufacturer-recommended maintenance to ensure it lasts as long as possible. 

Megan Boettcher is a freelance writer for Better Homes and Gardens, writing about a variety of topics including home design, holiday crafts, and more. To find the best coffee makers and espresso machines she researched the ins and outs of coffee makers and their features for this story, comparing the latest features and product specifications.

Michelle Love is a freelance commerce writer for Better Homes and Gardens where she has written about kitchen appliances and interior design. To find out more about what people should look for when purchasing a coffee maker, she consulted Dan Bailey with Amavida Coffee Roasters and analyzed the results from our coffee maker lab tests.

Related Articles

The best coffee machines for offices in 2024

From single-serve to automatic espresso, these are the six best coffee makers for quickly filling a mug and seizing the day.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You’re not alone if you like to jump-start your day at the coffee machine. According to a report by the National Coffee Association (NCA), 63% of Americans drink coffee daily, making it the most consumed beverage—even more popular than water. The report also reveals that 36% of Americans say they have an in-office coffee station.

In the past, many offices were limited to commercial coffee brewers with warming plates. However, those models often resulted in bland and/or burnt coffee that didn’t get any better from sitting on a hot plate for too long. These days, however, coffee-maker manufacturers make affordable retail models with many of the bells and whistles you’d find in commercial coffee makers. The best coffee makers for offices can cater to cubicle coworkers’ and C-suite executives’ tastes alike without exceeding space or budget restrictions. 

• Best overall: Breville Precision Brewer
• Best splurge: Breville the Barista Touch Impress  
• Best for large groups: Bunn 12-Cup Commercial Coffee Brewer
• Best single-serve coffee maker: L’OR Barista  
• Best French Press: Espro P7 French Press
• Best value: Cuisinart Automatic Grind and Brew  

How we chose the best coffee machines for offices

As a freelance journalist for over 10 years, I’ve reviewed home and tech products for publications including Forbes, CNN Underscored , NBC News Select , Popular Mechanics , Architectural Digest , Tom’s Guide , The Daily Beast , USA Today’s Reviewed , TechRadar , Better Homes & Gardens , Bob Vila , and, of course, PopSci . I’ve tested and written several dozen coffee makers and combined this experience alongside interviews with several coffee experts for tips on choosing the best coffee maker(s) for this type of setting. 

The best coffee machines for offices: Reviews & Recommendations

Giorgio Milos, master barista for illy , tells us, “Good and well-prepared coffee at offices is a thing that should be available all the time and independently of who’s making the coffee.” He admits, however, that people are not born with the skills to make it right; some knowledge and training are necessary to make coffee properly.  

“Filter coffee is easy to prepare and maintain with very little training and knowledge, but making espresso-based drinks properly requires extensive training, practice, and passion,” he says. “On the other hand, single-serve pods or capsules are made to avoid the requirement of skills.” 

For office managers in the market to purchase a coffee maker, these are some NCA stats to keep in mind: Among people who drink coffee, the most popular preparation method is drip coffee (40%), followed by single-cup brewers (27%), cold brewing (16%), and espresso machines (11%). In addition, the most popular espresso-based beverages are lattes (18%), espressos (16%), and cappuccinos (15%). Based on testing, our experience with coffee makers in office settings, and the factors explained by our experts at the end of this roundup, here are the best coffee machines for offices that offer all types of extraction and allow you to leave behind that travel mug of homebrew without regrets.

Terri Williams

Why it made the cut: The large-capacity coffee maker is durable, easy to use, and looks good in any space.

Specs 

• Dimensions: 14” x 9” x 16”
• Weight: 3.15 pounds
• Brewing capacity : 60 ounces
• Six brewing presets, including fast, strong, and cold brew
• Programmable
• SGA Gold Cup standard certification
• Thermal carafe
• Easy to use
• 60-ounce capacity
• Adapter kit for pour-over option sold separately

The Breville Precision Brewer leads our list of the best drip coffee makers and is also our top pick for the best office coffee machines. The Breville Precision Brewer can brew 60 ounces (12 cups) of coffee. However, it also has a small cup detection feature for office workers who want to brew a single-serve volume. In addition, the coffee maker has several settings, including SCA Gold Cup, Fast, Strong Brew, Ice Coffee, and Cold Brew . SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) Gold Cup certification is only awarded to a handful of coffee makers, and certification is determined by various factors, including brew basket volume, temperature, uniformity of extraction and performance, holding receptacle and temperature. 

It’s easy to use, another reason this is a great coffee machine for office use. After pressing the start/cancel button, there’s a select dial, and the selection shows on the display panel. The coffee maker also has a “time since brewed” feature, so anyone walking up to the machine can see how fresh the coffee is.

It’s a durable coffee maker made of brushed stainless steel with a thermal carafe. I like thermal carafes because they can keep coffee hot without using a warming plate. In an office setting, a thermal carafe is also a heavy-duty option that won’t break if it’s accidentally dropped on the floor, unlike fragile glass carafes. Also, more manually minded caffiends can use the Breville Precision Brewer with a pour-over dripper.

Best splurge: Breville the Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine   

Tony Ware / Popular Science

Why it made the cut: The step-by-step instructions make this great for beginner baristas.

• Dimensions: 14.2” x 13.4” x 16.3”
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Brewing capacity: 12 ounces
• Onscreen guidance
• 9 bar extraction pressure
• Hands-free milk texturing

Don’t underestimate your officemates’ ability to use and appreciate high-end coffee makers. Many of them may have high-end espresso machines at home, and others, especially those who visit their favorite barista every day, may be willing to learn how to recreate their favorite drinks at work. Having a proper latte machine at the office saves them time and money and can help create a sense of camaraderie in the office. And the Breville Barista Touch Impress is actually a beginner-friendly automatic espresso machine with settings for flat white, latte, cappuccino, long black, babyccino, hot chocolate, tea, and more.

The 12-ounce bean hopper holds whole beans until you want the integrated burr grinder to transform them into ground coffee. Also, the generous 67.6-ounce water tank eliminates having to refill it continuously. The Thermojet heating system heats up quickly, and the automatic steam wand provides a silky microfoam layer on top of the coffee that beats a simple milk frother . In addition, settings for alternative milk types (almond, oat, soy) can also be selected for latte-based drinks.

• Dimensions: 8” x 23” x 19.2H
• Weight: 25.6 pounds
• Brewing capacity: 12 cups
• Three warming stations can keep 36 cups of coffee warm
• Can designate regular or decaf decanters
• Simple, easy-to-use buttons
• Temperature recovery period

If you need to make coffee for many people, the Bunn 12-Cup Commercial Coffee Brewer lets you brew up to three carafes (or decanters) of coffee and keep them hot on the three warming stations. The warming stations are each separately controlled. And for large events, like meetings and office parties, you can continue to brew coffee rapidly. In fact, this stainless-steel, easy-to-use commercial brewer makes 3.8 gallons of coffee per hour.

There’s another advantage to such commercial coffee machines. A Bunn allows you to brew fully leaded and decaf coffee simultaneously and keep them in carafes with a color-coded handle. This allows you to accommodate those who may be trying to cut down on their caffeine consumption. You can brew two carafes of coffee back-to-back, but then there’s a temperature-recovery period before the third carafe can be brewed.

Best single-serve coffee maker: L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine   

• Dimensions: 16” x 7” x 11”
• Weight: 11.02 pounds
• Uses a variety of coffee and espresso capsules
• Heats quickly
• 40-ounce detachable water tank
• Single-serve use only

If you have a small office that enjoys single-serve coffee, they can customize each cup with the L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine—a fully automatic machine that is quite easy to use. After pressing the Power button, just press the Small icon for a 5-ounce coffee or a 1.4-ounce espresso. The Medium icon produces 8 ounces of coffee or 2.7 ounces of espresso. The Large button is used for 12 ounces of coffee or 3.7 ounces of espresso.

The L’OR Barista can accept both large coffee capsules and small espresso capsules, producing a velvety layer of crema on top every time. Some coffee blends offered include Vanilla Flavored Blend, Bonjour Blend, Chateau Blend, Provocateur Blend, Le Tigre Blend, and Decaf Medium Roast. Some of the espresso capsules include Ristretto, Colombia, Ristretto Decaffeinato, Onyx, Profondo, Estremo, Forza, Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, and Papua New Guinea. L’OR single-serve coffee makers are also compatible with Peet’s Coffee capsules and Nespresso Original machine capsules (another popular style of office-friendly coffee maker).

• Dimensions: 3.5” x 4.2” x 9.5”
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Brewing capacity: 32 ounces
• Makes good, strong coffee
• Double filter keeps coffee sediment-free
• Gorgeous, space-saving design
• Plunger can be tricky

It’s been said that no coffee tastes better than properly prepared French Press coffee . If there are a few coffee snobs in your office, the Espro P7 French Press can provide the level of flavor that they’re unlikely to get from another brewing method. That’s because you can fully control the brewing process (using the plunger) in a way you can’t with most other types of brewing processes. The Espro P7 has a double micro-filter to ensure that no grit or sludge can make it into your cup—and it brews coffee in 4 minutes. In addition, since the stainless-steel French press has double-walled insulation, it keeps coffee (or tea) hot for hours with no degradation of taste.

The Espro P7 is available in 18- and 32-ounce sizes. It’s also available in several colors, including matte black, matte white, Aegean blue, cranberry, brushed stainless steel, and polished stainless steel. Of course, you’ll need a good source of hot water for a French Press, like the temperature-controlled Stagg EKG Pro Studio Electric Gooseneck Kettle —one of our top gift suggestions for the hot beverage-obsessed.

  Specs

• Dimensions: 8.74’ x 16.34” x 11.96”
• Weight: 15 pounds
• 12-cup carafe
• Bean hopper/grinder
• Grind-off feature
• Glass carafe

Nothing tastes better than freshly ground coffee beans, and the Cuisinart Automatic Grind and Brew can save you the space and expense of a dedicated grinder . The bean hopper, which holds half a pound of coffee beans, has a lid to keep the beans fresh, and the built-in burr grinder has a grind control knob to make the ground finer or coarser, as desired. However, there’s also a Grind-Off feature when using pre-ground coffee.

The coffee maker also has several other convenience features. For example, it can be programmed up to 24 hours in advance so that officemates can arrive to freshly brewed coffee each day. In addition, the brew strength can be controlled, and there’s a Brew Pause feature if someone wants to cheat and grab a cup of coffee before the carafe has finished. (I strongly advise against that since it weakens the remaining coffee.) The 12-cup carafe has a dripless spout. However, the carafe is made of glass, which doesn’t retain heat as well as a thermal carafe. But considering that it’s a 12-cup coffee maker with a built-in grinder, we also consider this the best value when looking for a coffee maker for the office.

What to consider when buying coffee makers for an office

There are many factors to consider when deciding which coffee maker for an office is right for you. Below are the factors we considered most important when writing this guide.

Machine type

The type of machine you purchase is the most important decision, and our experts had the most comments on this particular topic. “Consider your available budget, the number of employees that will be brewing coffee, the machine’s durability, and the counter space available in your office kitchen,” says Dr. Christina Rahm, founder and CEO at Rahm Roast Coffee in Franklin, Tenn.

She notes that single-brew coffee machines are popular because they tend to be cost-efficient, require minimal countertop space, and are easy to clean. “Utilizing a pour-over or French press, which is what we use in our office, is undoubtedly one of the finest ways to achieve a fresh and flavorful cup of coffee,” Rahm explains. “In a smaller office setting, this is a great option to consider.”

Caroline Bell, founder and CEO of Cafe Grumpy , agrees you want something easy to use. “However, you also want something that produces a good cup of coffee, so your team will want to take their coffee break in the office,” she says. “After establishing your budget, consider how many people will be using the machine and whether or not you want to have something that allows people to brew one cup at a time or a pot of coffee to share.”

And Bell recommends just the right amount of fresh ground coffee . “Although pods allow you to offer different types of coffee one cup at a time, having fresh ground coffee will give your team a better coffee experience, including those nice aromas.”

If you’re in a small office, Bell says investing in a coffee grinder and some pour-over equipment might be a good idea so people can brew individual cups and try different coffees. “On the other hand, if you have a big budget and a large team, you might want to splurge on an automatic espresso machine,” she says.

According to Shonali Paul, founder of Paul John Indian Caffeine Company , “The ideal solution for offices would be an automatic machine that brews at least three different coffees: an espresso, an Americano, and a latte,” she says. “That way, the possibilities are endless and will cater to all your employees’ likes.”

Paul is also a fan of machines with built-in bean grinders (pro tip: keep a small spray bottle of water handy to cut down on static and stray grinds ). “This also gives you the option to try many different roasts and blends—while grinding them on demand, so they stay fresh for longer.”

If there’s no coffee professional in charge, Milos (master barista for illy) recommends a system that avoids most potential errors in preparation. “Filter coffee is much easier to manage, and it can be set in offices regardless of the skills of the users,” he says. “Assuming all preparation variables are set—water temp, ratio coffee/water, grind size, and more—the two main rules are maximum two hours of consumption time, and the equipment must be cleaned every day.”

Settings  

When making your choice, consider which coffee machines provide ease and functionality. “Look for coffee makers with settings such as cup size, brew strength, a timer feature, and whether the machine can brew espresso shots or provide hot water for other beverages [don’t forget the tea drinkers in your company],” Rahm says. “Not all settings are created equal, so focus on the settings that would best benefit your team members.”

Capacity is an important factor, depending on the number of people in your office. “ Keep in mind the number of employees in your office, and regardless of what you choose, make sure it can provide enough fresh coffee for the number of employees working,” Rahm says.  

User-friendly interface

Next to the type of machine, Rahm says the second-most important decision to consider is the interface. “The last thing anyone wants to do when they want to brew a cup of joe is read an instruction manual,” she says. “Digital interfaces can offer a multitude of settings at a click, while traditional knobs or buttons are more straightforward but still effective at getting the job done.”

Additional tips

Whatever you decide, Bell recommends making the coffee station a fun place where people can add their own touches, with options like alternative milks, cinnamon and/or cocoa, fun mugs, and other accessories like the ones you would want to give or get .

Paul agrees and recommends getting creative. “For example, provide even more of a variety of coffee flavors by having different syrups to add,” she says. “Giving employees the chance to savor different flavors in the workplace can really change their coffee experience throughout the day.”

Q: Why are coffee makers important in an office?

Most Americans drink coffee and many expect companies to provide coffee makers in an office setting. In-office coffee makers provide convenience for employers who don’t have time to stop by a coffee shop during their morning commute. It can also help them save money. Lastly, gathering around the coffee maker provides an opportunity for workers to socialize temporarily.

Q: Are expensive espresso machines better?

It depends. We provided a variety of coffee makers and espresso machines , realizing that people have different tastes. However, I have noticed in numerous office settings that when a high-quality espresso machine is available, people tend to flock toward it and suddenly start drinking espresso-based drinks. Some eventually purchase an espresso machine for their home. However, if, for example, you only have two or three people interested in a high-end espresso machine, it may not be worth the investment.

Q: Which coffee maker is better: automatic or manual?

An automatic coffee maker is easier for most office workers to operate. However, just as companies expect office workers to learn new processes and technology, they can also quickly learn how to use coffee makers. Employees are at work for eight hours a day, and the desire to create the perfect coffee is a task they’re more than up to tackling.

Final thoughts on the best coffee machines for offices

When considering the best coffee machine for an office, the 12-cup Breville Precision Brewer is durable and easy to use. It’s a drip coffee maker that can also be used to make pour-over coffee. However, there are a variety of other coffee makers, some with grinders and others with espresso features, that may also appeal to various team members. If you have the budget for it, consider creating a coffee bar that includes two or three different types of coffee machines.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

As a contributor to Popular Science’s reviews team, Terri Williams covers all things tech, from smart doorbells to webcams. She’s also provided research for Popular Science’s Best of What’s New awards.

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The 7 Best Espresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed

To find the best espresso machines, we tasted the under-extracted, the over-extracted and the just plain bad espresso so you don't have to.

Photo by: Kamron Sanders

Kamron Sanders

Related To:

Our top espresso machine picks.

Best Overall

Best for Latte Art

Best for Beginners

Best Capsule

Best Automatic With Grinder

Best Super-Automatic

Also in This Article

How we tested, what to consider when shopping for an espresso machine, essential accessories for making espresso, espresso machine terms to know, frequently asked questions.

Tested by Kamron Sanders

A home espresso machine allows you to become your very own barista. Fall in love with lattes, carefully craft cappuccinos and double up the doppios all in the comfort of your own home. Want a morning latte? Done. How about a post-lunch pick-me-up? Coming right up. Want an espresso martini on any given night? Cheers!

What makes a great espresso machine? First, it has to make great espresso. Beyond this, it should be easy to clean and maintain, make silky smooth steamed milk and do all of this while looking stunning on your countertop. To help you decide which espresso machine is the right one for you, we’ve tested 15 different models and narrowed down the very best espresso machines for any budget or skill level.

After years of working as a barista in a local coffee shop, where I pulled espresso on premium, professional-grade espresso machines, I was ready for the ultimate challenge of making coffee shop-worthy espresso at home to determine which machines are worth the investment.

To find the best espresso machine, we put a variety of different models to the test. Each espresso machine was tested for overall usability, espresso extraction and taste and the ease and quality of milk steaming. To keep things as consistent as possible, we sourced all the espresso beans from K Brew in Knoxville, TN. For each shot of this espresso, we looked for tasting notes like caramel, chocolate and nuttiness, with a subtle grapefruit finish. Of course, compatible capsules were used for capsule machines.

To establish our espresso parameters, we turned to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) , which states, “Espresso is a 25–35ml (×2 for double) beverage prepared from 7–9 grams (14–18 grams for a double) of coffee through which clean water of 195–205 degrees F has been forced at 9–10 atmospheres of pressure, and where the grind of the coffee is such that the brew time is 20–30 seconds. While brewing, the flow of espresso will appear to have the viscosity of warm honey and the resulting beverage will exhibit a thick, dark golden crema.”

In addition to the quality and taste of the espresso, the machines themselves were tested for things like user-friendliness, ease of cleaning and maintenance and overall capability, such as the ability to accurately heat the water and maintain enough pressure to pull a quality shot of espresso. To monitor the temperature of the water, an instant-read thermocouple thermometer was used.

To test each espresso machine’s milk-steaming capabilities, we attempted to create microfoam using the available steaming mechanism. Some espresso machines came equipped with steam wands, while others had alternative milk-frothing devices. Once the milk was frothed, we assessed its texture and taste, then attempted to pour latte art, which requires high-quality microfoam. To level the playing field, we steamed and poured with a Rattleware 12-ounce milk steaming pitcher on every machine.

Photo By: Kamron Sanders

Best Overall: Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

• Stainless steel construction is easy to clean and looks great in any kitchen
• Integrated conical burr grinder is high quality and produces very consistent grounds
• Tamper is lackluster and uncomfortable
• Portafilter drips alot after removing it from the group head

Breville is a household name for home espresso machines, so it came as no surprise that one of their flagship machines took the top spot on this list. I found this espresso machine very easy to use and was pleasantly surprised by the amount of flavor it was capable of extracting from the coffee while maintaining balance.

The dosing dial and easy-to-adjust integrated burr grinder with 16 grind positions make it very easy to dial in espresso, preventing you from wasting coffee trying to achieve a balanced extraction. Additionally, I felt that the steam wand was one of the easiest to use among the espresso machines tested. The steam pressure felt even and controlled, which made it easy to create silky smooth microfoam.

Another feature we love is the optional manual espresso controls, which allow the user to stop the extraction at any point rather than relying on the machine's timer.

Best Value: Solis Barista Perfetta Plus Espresso Machine

• This high of quality at this low of a price point is surprising
• Included accessories are nicer than comparable models
• Brew temperature is easy to adjust
• Programmable features aren't the most intuitive and require referencing the manual
• Steam wand is a little too powerful, which may prove difficult for beginners

For an espresso machine under $500, the Solis is a standout machine. Not only was it capable of pulling a high-quality shot of espresso, the machine itself felt high-quality. The Solis and its accessories, such as the pitcher, portafilter and tamper, felt premium, while similarly priced machines felt lackluster. In fact, the tamper included with the Solis was far and away better than any other included tamper we tested, rivaling premium aftermarket tampers that you could easily spend an additional $40 to $60 on.

Additionally, the inclusion of a manometer (pressure gauge) on a relatively inexpensive espresso machine felt like an unexpected perk. The manual offers easy-to-follow instructions for utilizing the manometer to monitor and dial in your espresso shots.

Best for Latte Art: Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

• Milk-sensing technology makes steaming high-quality microfoam easy for beginners
• Machine is fairly sensitive to parameter changes, making it easy to dial in espresso
• Portafilter drips excessively when removed from the group head, leaving a mess
• Milk texture may be a little too foamy for some people's taste

Just like the Breville at the top of our list, the Bambino Plus delivered a delicious shot of espresso at the push of a button. However, what really won us over about this machine was Breville’s MilQ technology, which can complete the entire milk-steaming process from start to finish, with easily-programmable control of the foam level. It's an aspiring latte artist's secret weapon.

What I loved even more about this machine was that the steam wand can still be used as a manual milk-steaming wand, allowing you to control how much assistance you want from the machine and take back the reins as you perfect your milk-steaming skills.

Best for Beginners: Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS

• Integrated tamper arm makes tamping the perfect shot foolproof
• Integrated conical burr grinder yields a high-quality grind
• Auto-dosing feature isn't very intuitive
• Relying on auto-dosing feature in testing resulted in too much volume and a bitter, over-extracted taste

We've already established that the Breville espresso machines are capable of producing great espresso, but the Breville Express Impress machine has an impressive feature that wasn't on any other machine we tested: An integrated tamper.

I’ll admit, when I saw the integrated tamper arm on this machine, I was highly skeptical. It felt a little gimmicky. But that all changed once I used it because it yields a perfect tamp every single time. Hats off to Breville for developing this very effective integrated tamper that allows even the greenest barista to pull shots like a pro.

Best Capsule: The Bruvi Bundle

• User interface is intuitive and easy to use
• Capsules simplify the espresso-making process
• Machine can make much more than just espresso
• Capsules limit the kinds of coffee you can make
• Capsules aren't the cheapest option
• No milk steamer or frother

You rarely hear anyone bragging about the coffee quality coming from a capsule or pod-style coffee and espresso machine. Usually, qualifying statements like “for a pod machine” follow any positive reviews. However, the Bruvi seems like a step up from the run-of-the-mill capsule coffee machine offering well-balanced espresso and even delicious cold brew coffee from eco-friendly capsules. In fact, the Bruvi was able to pull a picture-perfect, crema-topped espresso shot with surprisingly good flavor, which wasn't accomplished by any other capsule machine we tested. What we loved most about this machine was the incredibly intuitive user interface that made it a joy to use.

The only thing this machine lacked was a means of steaming milk. For that, you'll need to purchase a separate milk frother .

Best Automatic With Grinder: Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine

• Manual steam wand lets you create great microfoam
• Beautiful design
• Steam wand has little movement, making it difficult to use comfortably

The Café Affetto looks like a futuristic espresso maker because it is a futuristic espresso maker. Out with the old steampunk-adjacent espresso machines of yesteryear and in with something that can complement your home's style.

But its looks aren't the only thing it has going for it. With an espresso mode, americano mode and a "my cup" mode, which is programmable via the SmartHQ app, you can make several great espresso drinks at the push of a button.

This machine has all the makings of a super-automatic espresso machine, but it maintains the manual milk steaming wand, which we love. Most alternative milk frother options tend to make the milk far too foamy, which leaves little room for pouring latte art. Plus, for those of us who cherish true microfoam in a latte and cappuccino, a manual steaming wand is a must-have espresso machine feature.

While certainly not a dealbreaker, the steam wand wasn't very ergonomic, which made it more difficult to use than other machines. It feels like the steam wand design prioritized form over function.

Best Super-Automatic: De'Longhi Magnifica Evo with LatteCrema System

• Machine does everything for you
• Great product warranty
• Milk was too foamy for latte art

The Magnifica Evo from DeLonghi doesn’t feel like it belongs in your home, but rather at a hotel espresso bar. This machine truly does every step of the process for you. From grinding the beans to pulling the shot to frothing the milk and even dispensing it into your latte, it’s a true hands-off espresso experience. With seven different recipes at the touch of your finger, including lattes, cappuccinos and iced coffee, this all-in-one machine is the equivalent of having a barista in your kitchen.

Is the Magnifica Evo going to rival the espresso beverages at a third-wave coffee shop? No. But it will easily replace your daily stop (or twice daily, we're not judging) at your go-to drive-thru coffee shop without sacrificing any of the convenience.

Type: When deciding on an espresso machine, consider how involved you want to be in the making of your espresso. This will help you determine if you want a fully automatic machine, a semi-automatic machine or a manual machine.

Budget: Next, establish how much you want to spend. With espresso machine prices, the sky is the limit. Determining your budget is about finding what you can spend and then striking a balance between cost and quality. The happy medium seems to be $500 to $1,000. In this range, you can make great espresso at home without breaking the bank. Plus, if you need help justifying the purchase, just calculate how much you will save by skipping your daily trip to your favorite coffee shop.

Integrated Grinder: If you don't want to buy a separate grinder, we recommend purchasing a machine with a built-in grinder. You should always grind espresso yourself rather than buying ground coffee, as this allows you to tailor the grind's coarseness to the machine and dial in your espresso extraction while maximizing the freshness and flavor.

Size: Espresso machines come in all shapes and sizes. Before you purchase an espresso machine, check its dimensions to ensure it will fit in your desired spot. Some espresso machines, especially those with top-mounted bean hoppers, may not fit beneath upper cabinetry.

While espresso machines usually include basic accessories like a tamper and a steaming pitcher, you may find that you need to upgrade your espresso tools to unlock your full barista potential. Other espresso tools, like a dosing funnel, knock box and a tamping mat, likely won’t come with your machine, but you’ll be kicking yourself for not buying them sooner. Oh, and if you opt for an espresso machine without a grinder, add a good conical burr grinder to your shopping list, as most standard coffee grinders won’t match your espresso machine’s capabilities.

Fellow Opus Conical Burr Coffee Grinder

IKAPE Espresso Knock Box and Organizer

notNeutral LINO Porcelain Cup & Saucer

watchget Espresso Tamping Mat

Normcore 58mm Magnetic Dosing Funnel V2

Normcore 58.5mm Espresso Coffee Tamper V4

To help you better understand what makes a good espresso machine, we’ve outlined some common features, specifications and other terms you should know below.

• Manual Espresso Machine: A manual espresso machine doesn't feature a pump, instead handing off the act of forcing the water through the coffee grounds to the user via an external mechanism.
• Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine: A semi-automatic espresso machine features a pump that forces the water through the coffee grounds, but the user is in control of turning the pump on.
• Automatic Espresso Machine: An automatic espresso machine does everything for the user. It completes all the steps of pulling an espresso shot on its own, from grinding the beans to pulling the shot.
• Super-Automatic Espresso Machine: A super-automatic espresso machine covers all the same steps as an automatic espresso machine, while also covering the milk frothing aspect as well.
• Capsule Espresso Machine: An espresso machine that utilizes capsules or pods rather than loose coffee grounds inside of a portafilter.
• Steam Wand: A steam-emitting wand typically located at the side or front of an espresso machine that's used for aerating and heating milk.
• Milk Steaming Pitcher: A metal pitcher used to steam milk with a steam wand.
• Filter Basket: The small metal basket that holds the espresso grounds during the extraction process.
• Portafilter: The handled tool that holes the filter basket and locks it into the espresso machine.
• Group Head: The portion of the espresso machine that delivers the water to the espresso, where the portafilter locks in place.
• Tamp: The act of compressing the coffee grounds inside the filter of the portafilter.
• Tamper: The tool used to compress the coffee grounds inside the filter of the portafilter.
• PID Controller: Proportional Integral Derivative, more commonly called "PID," is a highly sensitive temperature control device within some espresso machines, which helps the machine to consistently deliver precisely heated water throughout the extent of the extraction process.
• Crema: The light-colored, foamy portion of the espresso shot that sits at the top. A quality crema on top of an espresso shot is evidence of ample pressure exerted by the espresso machine.
• Microfoam: The silky smooth texture necessary for latte art, accomplished by delicately heating and aerating milk using the espresso machine's steam wand.
• What are the different types of espresso machines? The most common types of espresso machines are manual espresso machines, semi-automatic espresso machines and automatic espresso machines. Recently, "super-automatic" has been used to describe machines that do more than the average automatic espresso machine.
• How do you clean an espresso machine? Nearly every espresso machine on the market comes with detailed instructions for cleaning it. Typically, the process of cleaning an espresso machine consists of running a backflushing cycle, during which the machine cleanses its numerous internal parts using its own hot water.
• How do you descale an espresso machine? For most models, the process of descaling an espresso machine consists of adding a descaling agent to either the water tank or the portafilter, then running a descaling cycle, which dissolves the descaling agent and cycles it through the internals of the espresso machine.

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Coffeemania

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

Looks like a coffee shop but it's much more - excellent selection of food and drinks. When we were there there wasn't anyone who spoke English but we managed - had a lovely (recommended) ginger lemonade and a salad.

Put it simple, I reserve the hotel in proximity with this place THREE times in a row when I fly to Moscow. Its just amazing from pelmeni to potato blini with salmon .. I can go on for the whole menu list... The stuff is... just super friendly and effective. No matter what you'll try you will be back for more.. You can thank me later... More

Large indoor and outdoor seating area with friendly staff serving food from early till late. Plenty of breakfast options and great coffee to match. Thanks for the vote if you found this helpful.

Once you get to grips with Moscow you will come to realise just how stupidly expensive the Coffee Mania chain is. You can spend £4-5 just on a cup of normal tea. I wouldn't even pay that in London! When you realise that you can... get a tea in any other regular place for less than 25% of that price it makes you wonder how these places stay in business. In a Shokoladnitsa - a competitor chain, the cost is about half of this. I will not be coming back!! More

I visited it with my family for the lunch. The quality of dishes was middle, chairs was not so comfortable (I am quiet big, but it makes for children size). The cost was 8000 ruble (105 €) for 3 person without alcohol. So I could... not recommend it for the lunch, only for coffee short. More

A friend from Moscow took me there on my first visit...and now...whenever I visit Moscow, I can’t go home without at least one cake and ginger tea in this place! Highly recommend to all of you! The experience is amazing! If you’re there with friends,take... different cakes and share....try as many as you can😝 More

This is more than just a coffee shop, the menu is quite large, good for lunch or dinner as well. It's situated right in front of the Tchaikovsky Conservatory of music. Prices are on the high side and the food is good

I used to go to coffeemania for breakfast religiously every Sunday when I lived in Moscow 10 years ago. Every time I go back to Moscow I visit it and I am glad to see it is still good. The coffee although expensive by far... the best in town. The good is delicious and atmosphere is vibrant. Love it. More

Trendy coffee shop, I loved the atmosphere. The food was great, the coffee too. Very expensive for breakfast.

This place has a good menu, good food and a very friendly staff. Definitely recommend for breakfast or dinner. Not cheap.

This was a convenient place for us to go, but I must say that the price was the reason I would not go back. It's just a cafe with simple meals, charging 20 dollars for a plate of plain boiled alphabet pasta and some ketchup... is not very reasonable. The coffee is good there, but there is a different coffeeshop 3 minutes away we discovered, they charge half of that for a cup of coffee just as good. So obviously it's not the location surcharge. The food was good, they have a kids menu and nice spacious seating, but like I said, I wouldn't go back there. It's not a bad place, but there are others to chose from very nearby. More

nice and fast restaurant. foor is tasty and you can get it fast. nice place is also outside. they have nice pinot grigio :) dessert 'smetannik" became one of my favourite ever

The coffeemania combines old style services with a fresh and pimped menu. The famous Russian salads underwent a makeover and it tastes well. Service is great, menu is exhaustive and the food comes fast. One can only hope that the combination of service, good food... and atmosphere will remain once Moscow is on more Tourists agenda. (there is a smoking corner) More

A great place to go for delicious desserts and coffee. Very stylish, friendly service. From what I heard from locals it's a very popular place.

There is not a massive choice of food here, but the drinks are plentiful and usually it stays open all day. Handy if you are looking for somewhere for coffee after a night out!

COFFEEMANIA, Moscow - Bldg. 1 ul. Nikitskaya B. 13/6, Boulevard Ring - Menu & Prices - Tripadvisor

• Atmosphere: 4

‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ Is a Keeper: TV Review

Legendary talk show host and hot wing evangelist returns to television with hilarious new Max travel show

By Stephen Rodrick

Stephen Rodrick

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The key to understanding Conan O’Brien’s comedy is knowing that it comes from a point of kindness. Yes, I know in this age of comics punching down , this kind of compliment may leave you with a neon “Must Avoid!” sign flashing in your bleary eyes — but stay with me.

Popular on Variety

Conan’s three-decade run as a talk show host ended in 2021 under less-than-optimal circumstances , as he wound down his TBS show during the pandemic year. He talked to longtime sidekick Andy Richter , who sat among dozens of cardboard cutout fans. O’Brien quipped that they were last in line for the vaccine because the CDC had looked at the shows and “they said ours is the least essential of pretty much all the non-essential shows.”

There was some truth in that, but Conan had already started his move to other outlets , starting with his “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” podcast in 2018.

The podcast is funny and sweet, especially the pre-interview segments with longtime associate Sona Movsesian and producer Matt Gourley. Conan mocks Sona’s legendarily bad work habits. and Gourley’s flea market predilections, but any kind of comedic acid is reserved for the self-lacerating O’Brien. (On a recent episode, Conan runs down his own looks, and it is cruel and hilarious, but part of me is thinking, “Dude, cut yourself a break.”). The only time things get contentious is when Conan visited by longtime friend Kevin Nealon — perhaps the podcast’s best episodes.

The podcast had an offshoot called “Conan O’Brien Needs a Fan,” on which O’Brien would talk to a fan, often in a faraway land. That led to O’Brien traveling to Norway, Thailand, Ireland and Argentina to meet them. Why? Well, a dour and ominous narrator, aka Werner Herzog, offered this rationale at the beginning of each episode: “Once a proud talk show host, he’s been driven by a changing ecosystem to a drier and harsher climate: the weekly podcast. Here , without the nourishment of his studio audience, this clown with dull , tiny eyes, the eye of a crudely painted doll , is forced to feed on that meagerest of morsels: the random call-in fan. Unhinged by the feral scent of their mild enthusiasm. He scavenges in distant lands uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition , and the occasional selfie.”

It’s a self-deprecating bit, but it’s also the truth. Conan has been doing travel shows for years, most notably one to Movsesian’s native Armenia , as well as a chaotic trip to Finland where O’Brien is treated as a god because of his physical resemblance to the Finnish president who happens to be a woman. He clearly loves the journey. And he loves the comedy set piece–see his classic “Old Timey Baseball” opus — which has always been an essential part of his appeal.

The encounters work because O’Brien doesn’t treat his new friends as fools — rather , he revels in the fact that he is the fool. (See his instant-classic appearance on “Hot Ones,” the show where interviews are conducted while the celebrity consumes increasingly acidic chicken wings. Conan rhapsodizes on comedy being all around us as green-yellow mucus drips down his nose.) Of course, there are exceptions made for old friends. Conan goes out for asada in Buenos Aires with the effete and erudite Jordan Schlansky, a longtime producer and frenemy. Schlansky and Conan are the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon of American cable , and on his TBS show and podcast the two have tangled over Japanese customs, Conan hosting Schlansky’s bachelor party in his own office, and Schlansky hiding an expensive Espresso machine in an inaccessible part of their offices. (As with the Courtney Thorne-Smith segment, Conan’s visceral malice toward Schlansky works because it is so out-of-character).

During the Argentina episode, they get into a fierce argument about the proper pronunciation of the word “tango,” Conan then licks Schlansky’s favorite cut of meat — wait, that came out wrong. After, they go on an ill-fated trip to the Pampas, where both fail spectacularly at gaucho life.

Not everything works. O’Brien does a self-referential bit about the expensive drone he is using on the first show , and for the next four episodes I am distracted every time I see a beautiful shot thinking about the drone’s specifications and capabilities. Some of the stuff goes on a bit long, but so does my writing.

These are minor quibbles. If you’re a Conan fan, you’ll treasure the trips, just like his completists treasure encounters with a masturbating bear. The series ends with Conan tracing his family’s roots in Ireland. He comes across his ancestor’s land, makes a few jokes, but then looks at the land, clearly moved. Conan O’Brien has played the fool long enough; we grant him this moment of humanity with all our hearts.

All four episodes of “Conan O’Brien Must Go” are now available on Max.

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Here's How You Should Really Be Cleaning Your Keurig Machine

I f you've got a Keurig you know that making your morning coffee is as easy as pressing a button. But cleaning it? That's a whole other story. It's probably more than likely that your Keurig is pretty gross right now. But never fear, we've got the fix. 

If you leave your Keurig dirty for long enough, it can affect the performance of your coffee machine as well as the taste of your coffee. What's worse is that, when left dirty, it's a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Fortunately, it's pretty easy to give every inch of your Keurig the attention that it deserves. 

We've broken down everything you need to know about cleaning all the parts of your Keurig coffee maker, from cleaning the drip trays to the brewing mechanisms and even the outside of your machine. For more, here are our picks for the top coffee makers of 2024 and what to know about Keurig's new compostable coffee pods . 

Don't let the coffee pods sit for days at a time

One of the best things that you can do for your Keurig is treat it gently when you're using it, especially if you're using it every day. For instance, remove used coffee pods once they've cooled down, and try to immediately take care of any spills or drips. Coffee can grow mold once brewed, and you don't want that sitting in your Keurig pod holder.

Wipe down the outside of your Keurig

You can begin your Keurig cleaning process by gently wiping down the outside of your coffee machine with a warm, damp cloth or paper towel. Not only does Keurig recommend wiping down your coffee pot daily, this is a really simple step to integrate into your daily cleaning routine. Just make sure that your coffee pot is fully turned off and unplugged before you begin cleaning. 

Wash the drip tray

Keurig also recommends a daily wash for your drip tray, which catches drips from your coffee maker and spills. The drip tray is also prone to unseemly coffee stains. You can hand wash your drip tray with a bit of warm water and dish soap. 

Tackle the water reservoir and matching lid

Yet again, Keurig recommends cleaning this element of your coffee maker daily. Like the drip tray, you can tackle this by hand washing the water reservoir and corresponding lid with warm water and dish soap. Depending on your coffee maker, you can wash both the reservoir and lid in your dishwasher. Just be sure to remove any water filters if you have any in your water reservoir. 

Plus, fresh cold water in your Keurig machine daily tastes way better than days-old water.

Wash the coffee carafe and basket

If you have a K-Duo coffee pot, that means you have one extra step when it comes to daily care. You'll need to wash the coffee carafe and basket if you've brewed a traditional cup of coffee. Like the water reservoir, you can wash the carafe and basket by hand, or depending on your coffee maker, you can put them in the dishwasher.  

Clean the pod holder 

The pod holder can be one of the grossest pieces of your Keurig machine. It's the implement that holds your coffee pod and can collect used coffee grounds. If not cleaned somewhat regularly, it can become very gross very fast, and can also grow mold. Keurig advises cleaning this implement weekly but we suggest wiping it down daily if it looks gross. 

The pod-holder assembly (PHA) will need to be removed from the Keurig before it can be cleaned. You can do this by grabbing the rim of the assembly and gently pulling it out. You'll also need to detach the pod holder from the attached funnel by pulling the two pieces apart. Be careful of sharp exit needles when cleaning these pieces. 

Keurig advises rinsing with water, but it couldn't hurt to scrub away any obviously gross stains or stuck-on coffee grounds -- especially if this is the first time you've cleaned it. 

Give your Keurig a full rinse

To keep your Keurig running smoothly for as long as possible, you'll want to do a regular cleaning brew, or a process called descaling. Essentially, descaling is the process of removing buildup. By not cleaning your Keurig's brewing mechanisms regularly (Keurig officially recommends doing this quarterly) the buildup in your brewing mechanism can begin to affect the taste of your coffee. 

The first step you'll need to take is to run hot water through your coffee maker. You can do this by running your Keurig like you would if you were brewing a cup of coffee, but without a coffee pod. 

Next, you have two options. You can either descale your coffee maker with a mixture of one part vinegar and one part water, or you can use Keurig's own descaling solution . Pour your descaling solution of choice into the reservoir, and run your Keurig as you normally would. After the machine is done, you'll want to let it rest for about 45 minutes. 

We recommend running plain water through your Keurig several times after descaling your machine to combat a vinegary taste. The last thing you want after spending this much time cleaning your Keurig is a ruined coffee.

For more cleaning tips, here's how to make a natural, all-purpose cleaner with three ingredients and how to speed-clean your kitchen in less than 15 minutes .

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Here's How You Should Really Be Cleaning Your Keurig Machine

Be honest -- when was the last time you properly cleaned your Keurig?

Your Keurig machine is probably over due for a cleaning. 

If you've got a Keurig you know that making your morning coffee is as easy as pressing a button. But cleaning it? That's a whole other story. It's probably more than likely that your Keurig is pretty gross right now. But never fear, we've got the fix. 

If you leave your Keurig dirty for long enough, it can affect the performance of your coffee machine as well as the taste of your coffee. What's worse is that, when left dirty, it's a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Fortunately, it's pretty easy to give every inch of your Keurig the attention that it deserves. 

We've broken down everything you need to know about cleaning all the parts of your Keurig coffee maker, from cleaning the drip trays to the brewing mechanisms and even the outside of your machine. For more, here are our picks for the top coffee makers of 2024 and what to know about Keurig's new compostable coffee pods . 

Don't let the coffee pods sit for days at a time

One of the best things that you can do for your Keurig is treat it gently when you're using it, especially if you're using it every day. For instance, remove used coffee pods once they've cooled down, and try to immediately take care of any spills or drips. Coffee can grow mold once brewed, and you don't want that sitting in your Keurig pod holder.

Wipe down the outside of your Keurig

You can begin your Keurig cleaning process by gently wiping down the outside of your coffee machine with a warm, damp cloth or paper towel. Not only does Keurig recommend wiping down your coffee pot daily, this is a really simple step to integrate into your daily cleaning routine. Just make sure that your coffee pot is fully turned off and unplugged before you begin cleaning. 

Wash the drip tray

Keurig also recommends a daily wash for your drip tray, which catches drips from your coffee maker and spills. The drip tray is also prone to unseemly coffee stains. You can hand wash your drip tray with a bit of warm water and dish soap. 

Tackle the water reservoir and matching lid

Yet again, Keurig recommends cleaning this element of your coffee maker daily. Like the drip tray, you can tackle this by hand washing the water reservoir and corresponding lid with warm water and dish soap. Depending on your coffee maker, you can wash both the reservoir and lid in your dishwasher. Just be sure to remove any water filters if you have any in your water reservoir. 

Plus, fresh cold water in your Keurig machine daily tastes way better than days-old water.

Wash the coffee carafe and basket

If you have a K-Duo coffee pot, that means you have one extra step when it comes to daily care. You'll need to wash the coffee carafe and basket if you've brewed a traditional cup of coffee. Like the water reservoir, you can wash the carafe and basket by hand, or depending on your coffee maker, you can put them in the dishwasher.  

Clean the pod holder 

The pod holder can be one of the grossest pieces of your Keurig machine. It's the implement that holds your coffee pod and can collect used coffee grounds. If not cleaned somewhat regularly, it can become very gross very fast, and can also grow mold. Keurig advises cleaning this implement weekly but we suggest wiping it down daily if it looks gross. 

The pod-holder assembly (PHA) will need to be removed from the Keurig before it can be cleaned. You can do this by grabbing the rim of the assembly and gently pulling it out. You'll also need to detach the pod holder from the attached funnel by pulling the two pieces apart. Be careful of sharp exit needles when cleaning these pieces. 

Keurig advises rinsing with water, but it couldn't hurt to scrub away any obviously gross stains or stuck-on coffee grounds -- especially if this is the first time you've cleaned it. 

Give your Keurig a full rinse

To keep your Keurig running smoothly for as long as possible, you'll want to do a regular cleaning brew, or a process called descaling. Essentially, descaling is the process of removing buildup. By not cleaning your Keurig's brewing mechanisms regularly (Keurig officially recommends doing this quarterly) the buildup in your brewing mechanism can begin to affect the taste of your coffee. 

The first step you'll need to take is to run hot water through your coffee maker. You can do this by running your Keurig like you would if you were brewing a cup of coffee, but without a coffee pod. 

Next, you have two options. You can either descale your coffee maker with a mixture of one part vinegar and one part water, or you can use Keurig's own descaling solution . Pour your descaling solution of choice into the reservoir, and run your Keurig as you normally would. After the machine is done, you'll want to let it rest for about 45 minutes. 

We recommend running plain water through your Keurig several times after descaling your machine to combat a vinegary taste. The last thing you want after spending this much time cleaning your Keurig is a ruined coffee.

For more cleaning tips, here's how to make a natural, all-purpose cleaner with three ingredients and how to speed-clean your kitchen in less than 15 minutes .