WACACOMinipresso NS2, Portable Espresso Maker Compatible with NS Original Capsules and Compatibles, Manually Operated, 18 Bar Small Handheld Coffee Machine for Travel, Camping

I LOVE this little powerhouse of an expresso maker. It is literally a ‘Where have you been my whole life?” traveling essential for expresso lovers. This version is a newer model. I do not know how the Wacaco team did it but they made a great product even better! The Minipresso NS looks sleek and compact until you see the NS 2. The newer version is half the size of the original model. Now I am not gonna lie, it is a bit tougher to squeeze out your expresso gold. Instead of just thumbs I need to get the palm of my hands involved. I just consider it my morning upper body strength training. It is doable, but notably more rigorous than the original minipresso.I have always been impressed with the exceptional packaging of Wacaco products and the NS 2 is no exception. It speaks to the attention to detail of the entire Brand. Speaking of attention to detail the individual or team who decided to add the little stand that the unit can be set in once you use the cup for expresso gets a standing ovation from me! This is the FRENCH KISS of the whole process! I have a couple other travel beverage makers that include cups. Once you use it and put the beverage in the cup there is no were to put the wet and possibly messy maker. You have to clean it up before you can set it down anywhere. With this little stand you can save the clean up for after you have enjoyed your expresso. This shows that the creators at Wacaco have thought through the entire process from start to finish and created a self contained, multi level product that fully meets your needs and solves problems you didn’t even know you were going to have. Insider tip, when storing the drip cup inside the unit make sure that you place it upside down. It fits very snugly and if it is upside down you have the lip on the bottom to grab on to when removing it. (Ask me how I know one way works significantly better than the other! You don’t wanna be fighting with it pre coffee, thats all I’m sayin’.)Of course the coffee made with this machine is good, other reviews cover this in more detail, the clean up is simple, all of the accompanying pieces can be conveniently stored inside the unit, and it comes with a draw string bag to use when tossed in your bag.This little travel buddy is well worth every penny. I highly recommend!

It does what it is designed to do, as well as possible. Really, success here may have two further variables beyond a flawless device: the flavor/freshness of the capsules, and th we strength and tenacity of your wrists and fingers. In the case of a manual espresso maker, all those bars of pressure don't come free. Having observed that, I particularly like the blend of wise simplicity with a compact elegance of style. This item is meant for portability and only a tiny mess in my apartment or cruise cabin. If those are your needs, go for it.

I admit to loving coffee gadgets. I drink one double Nepresso latte in the morning--and I like my coffee the way I like my coffee. I'm not a snob just a creature of habit. So, when I went to visit my mom for a few weeks, I needed a way to keep the coffee flowing. Enter this little bundle of joy. Small enough to take on the plane with me, it worked better than I expected. Are there issues with the pod getting stuck, yup, but you'll figure it out (it isn't that hard). Did I burn my hands pouring the hot water into the container--sure--but that was me not paying attention. Did my hand cramp into a permanent claw trying to pump the machine--absolutely. But ultimately, I got to have my coffee almost my way. I figure I can throw this thing, a small milk frother, and a box of Peets pods into my bag any time I have to travel and I'm set to go. All you need is some boiling water (and hot milk if that is your thing) and you're good. They include a little cup for the hikers and campers, but I skipped that in favor of a regular mug. You'll get some sputtering and, no, the coffee won't be as good as out of the machine, but it will certainly get you through a few days or more. I was quite pleased with the quality of the shots. Make sure to try it out before you go--there is a learning curve but not a steep one. It is easy to carry, easy to clean, and easy enough to use. This is a useful addition to the gadget collection.