The STARESSO Portable Espresso Maker is pretty flexible with how it brews, as per the manufacturer's description. You can use both ground coffee and capsules, including those compatible with Nespresso. So if you're into Nespresso, you can enjoy a familiar espresso whether you're at home or on the move.

As for how much espresso it makes per shot? It generally pumps out about 30-50 ml, which is what you'd expect for a single shot of espresso. Of course, this might change a little depending on how much coffee you stuff in and the pressure you apply since it's all done manually.

Our research shows that the adaptability of this little machine is a big plus. You can use between 10-12 grams of ground coffee or 5-6 grams with the capsules, giving you some room to play around and get the taste you like.

People often mention that using the Nespresso capsules is super easy, with less mess—a real bonus when you're traveling or in a rush in the morning.

Some folks have mentioned a bit of trouble with inserting capsules. The key advice here is to make sure the fit is snug and the pod is punctured properly for the best results.

Also, pre-heating the water and the device itself can really boost the flavor and warmth of your cup, so that's a tip worth trying.

Overall, the STARESSO Portable Espresso Maker isn't just about making coffee; it's about doing it effortlessly wherever you are. Whether you're using ground coffee or the capsules, this gadget gives you the versatility you need.

If you're open to a little experimenting with how you prep your espresso, it can really tailor the brew to your liking.

Cleaning the STARESSO Portable Espresso Maker is pretty simple, which is great if you're always on the go or just prefer not having to fuss with complicated maintenance.

To start, you'll want to take it apart. That means separating the water chamber, filter basket, and pump. The manufacturer suggests rinsing each part with warm water to get rid of coffee residues. Since it doesn't have any electronic bits, you don't have to worry about getting it wet.

For a deeper clean, especially if you've been using it a lot or making cold brew (which can leave behind more oils), you might want to use a little mild detergent. Just be sure to rinse everything well so your next coffee doesn't taste like soap. Its simple design means there aren't any tricky spots that are hard to clean.

Every so often, it's a good idea to do a deep clean. You can soak the parts in a mix of water and white vinegar to take care of any leftover residues or mineral deposits, which can mess with the taste or performance. Some people find it helpful to do this every few weeks, depending on how often they use it.

The STARESSO's portability and ease of use make it perfect for camping or hiking, where you might not have access to a sink. Its manual operation and quick cleaning keep things hassle-free, so you can always have espresso ready to go.

Honestly, whether you're at home or out on an adventure, it's easy to keep your STARESSO clean and ready for your next coffee fix.

With a simple cleaning routine, you can consistently enjoy a great cup with little effort.

The STARESSO Portable Espresso Maker is pretty cool if you're a fan of espresso and need something that works anywhere, even without electricity. It's designed to be flexible—according to the manufacturer's product description, you can use both ground coffee and coffee capsules, like Nespresso pods.

So, if you like switching between freshly ground beans and the convenience of pods, this has you covered.

Using Nespresso pods with this little machine is usually pretty straightforward. It comes with an adapter where you pop in your pod. But here's a tip: make sure the pod is properly pierced. Apparently, it helps with water flow and makes a big difference in extracting a good espresso shot.

According to our research, not piercing the pod completely can mess with the water flow, and you'll end up with a weaker brew. So, just to be safe, carefully puncture the pod before brewing.

Another handy tip from our research is to preheat the machine and your cup before you start brewing. This can really make your espresso taste better and stay warm longer. People who try this say it often results in a richer and more consistent cup of coffee.

Cleanup is a breeze with Nespresso pods! Once you're done, you can just eject the used pod, and there's hardly any mess to deal with. This is especially great when you're traveling or just need something quick and easy.

It might take a little practice to get the hang of using a manual espresso maker like this, especially if it's your first time. But once you do, it's super rewarding.

All in all, if you like the idea of having an espresso maker that can handle Nespresso pods and don't want it tied to a power outlet, the STARESSO is worth considering.