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We rated 10 popular models on versatility, brew quality and ease of cleanup. These three started hot and finished strong.

BEST FOR ESPRESSO
Espressione Combination Stainless Steel Espresso + Coffee Machine
$248; amazon.com

These machines we tested all do double duty, but this one stood out for consistently longer espresso shots with gentler extractions, meaning fewer bitter notes.

BEST SPLURGE
Miele CM5300 Countertop Coffee System
$1,250; amazon.com

Featuring a customizable burr grinder and nine preset drink options, this intuitive device with LED display offers, in the words of one tester, “an impressive cup without any of the work.”

BEST OVERALL
De’Longhi All-in-One Coffee and Espresso Maker
$300; bestbuy.com

Our testers deemed this “versatile” machine the closest to a true barista experience, with its cafe-style portafilter, 10-cup glass carafe and “impressive” milk texturing when making cappuccino.

KNOW YOUR ESPRESSO!

Part of owning a combo brewer is making the most of the strong stuff. Here, three high-test drinks to try.

Macchiato
2 oz. espresso (a typical double shot) + 0.5 oz. foamy steamed milk

Cortado
2 oz. espresso + 2 oz. foamy steamed milk

Flat White
2 oz. espresso + 4 oz. foamy steamed milk