Nespresso machines have grown in popularity in the last few years due to their ability to produce high-quality, barista-style creamy coffees in a matter of seconds. All in the convenience of the home. They have become an essential ingredient to the modern kitchen, with homeowners wanting to create their coffee shop at home. Nespresso machines use pre-made coffee capsules which are pierced and blended with water in the machine. Some machines even contain a milk frother to make your coffees even creamier. The capsules come in a variety of different blends for you to choose from.
But what are the best Nespresso machines currently available to purchase? This article aims to give you answers to this question by providing information to assist the purchasing process. The buying guide outlines factors such as water tank and capsule capacity, dimensions, pressure level in bars and warranty information as some elements to consider when purchasing a Nespresso machine. You must identify what your coffee needs are before you commit to purchasing to maximize your chances of getting the best value product.
This article uses information from manufacturing websites and customer reviews. It begins with a comparison table of the eight products and this is followed by eight in-depth product reviews that include key features, pros/cons and product description. After the product reviews are the buying guide that outlines factors to consider when buying a Nespresso machine as well as a brief FAQ section. The article concludes with a top-three ranking of the best Nespresso machines.
More features: 2 cup sizes, water hardness programming, folding drip tray, 25-sec heat up time, automatic shut-off
The Breville Nespresso CitiZ is a slickly designed, high functioning, Nespresso coffee machine. The new look of the CitiZ is elegant and will certainly appeal to coffee and espresso drinkers. Add a touch of a class to your morning coffee ritual. A bonus of purchasing the CitiZ is that you will receive a complimentary gift of 14 original Nespresso capsules, giving you a great opportunity to discover which coffee blends are your favourite.
One of the best features of the CitiZ is its smart power use. If you are looking for a coffee machine that uses minimal energy, the CitiZ 19 bar extraction system combined with an automatic standby mode is a perfect choice. Ensuring your morning coffee does not increase your electricity bills.
The CitiZ is known for its versatility, giving coffee and espresso drinkers with plenty of options. The folding cup tray is ideal espresso cups or for tall, thin single-serve coffee cups. The operating system provides the option to brew different sizes of coffee cups, simply operate one of the two options – Espresso (1.35 ounces) Lungo (5 ounces). Also, you can add ice to the glass and make the perfect iced coffee. The CitiZ ensures these coffee options are easy to access.
Convenience is everything and the CitiZ certainly delivers this with a heat-up speed of only 25 seconds. Disposing of capsules is also very straightforward. The removable capsule container can hold up to 10 capsules at one time. This, combined with the removable drip tray and water tank which can hold 34 ounces, ensure the machine is easy to operate and clean.
More features: automatic shut-off, soft-touch controls, removable drip tray, automatic milk system, 5.6 oz milk carafe capacity, water hardness programming
The DeLonghi EN560W Nespresso Lattissima Touch is a premium range Nespresso coffee machine that is perfectly suited to coffee connoisseurs. Equipped with a large variety of coffee options, the Lattissima Touch leads the way in Nespresso coffee machine engineering.
Famed for its creamy coffee options, the Lattissima Touch specializes is barista-style coffees, giving options of a creamy latte, latte macchiato, warm milk, cappuccino, espresso or coffee. The creamy coffees are made through the de’longhi’s own advanced milk frother which creates a robust foam to mix with your coffees. All of these different coffee recipes can be operated with a simple touch of a button, which are soft-touch illuminated controls located on the top of the unit.
The Lattissima Touch is designed and engineered in Italy, which is born through the slick product design. The machine will fit in perfectly to most kitchen spaces. Built for practicality, the design incorporates a sliding drip tray and removable milk container that has rinsing function aid the cleaning process. Other cool features include a water hardness programming capability and automatic shut-off to reduce energy consumption.
The Lattissima Touch contains the industry-standard 19 bar pressure system to deliver coffees at a high-speed. This machine can create milk-based coffees in less than 40 seconds. The coffee capsules are easily inserted through the insertion mechanism and pierced automatically. With capacity for 10 used capsules, this machine is both high-quality and a practical solution to your morning coffee needs.
More features: folding drip tray, 30 sec heating time, 2 cup sizes and water hardness programming, backlit LED water indicators
The Breville Nespresso Pixie is a highly durable Nespresso coffee machine that has a slick compact design. Some may be put off buying an affordable espresso coffee machine because of fears of it breaking down. The Pixie breaks the mold by giving a long-lasting Nespresso coffee solution.
The Pixie is designed mainly for espresso drinkers, though coffee options are also available. Using efficient and energy-saving technology, the Pixie can produce delicious espressos in only 25 seconds. This is the industry-leading top speed for generating espressos from Nespresso capsules. After the machine has been used it will automatically turn off after 9 minutes, leaving you safe in the knowledge that your energy bills will not take a hit.
The water tank capacity of the Pixie is marginally less than other machines at 24 ounces. All this means is that you may have to refill it more often. The water tank, drip tray and used capsule receptacle are easy to remove. This is also ideal for the maintenance of the machine. The coffee options are easily operated from one-touch buttons located at the top of the machine. These buttons easily distinguish between espressos and coffees.
One of the advantages of purchasing with Breville is that customers receive a complimentary gift of 14 Nespresso capsules giving a wide variety of flavors to try out. If you are new to Nespresso coffee capsules this is an ideal opportunity to work out your preferred flavors.
More features: water hardness programming, automatic shut-off, removable drip tray, manual flow stopping option
The Delonghi EN80B Nespresso Inissia is a high-quality Nespresso machine that is renowned for being user-friendly and giving users the option to customize their coffees and espressos. This affordable compact machine can easily find a home in a kitchen, dorm or camping setup.
The Inissia is the result of world-famous Italian design and construction. The machine is quality guaranteed, with the slick neutral black design adding a touch of class to your morning coffee routine. The coffee that is created by the machine is high-class barista-quality, which will make you want to set up your coffee store inside your home. The machine can make either espressos or coffees, catering for most basic Nespresso needs.
The Inissia uses fast-heating themoblock technology that allows coffees to be made in under one minute from the moment the button has been operated. While this is slower than rival products, it remains a faster alternative to other types of coffee processes. The machine also contains energy-saving technology to reduce usage during operation. The machine will automatically turn off 9 minutes after the operation.
The Inissia has a large used capsule container which can store up to 11 used capsules at one time. This ideal for those who can be put off by having to constantly remove filters on other types of coffee machine. The Inissia is designed for maximum coffee convenience. The manual flow stopping action also allows you to manually control for the amount of coffee you desire. This feature is not found on many other machines and is a great customizing feature.
More features: removable drip tray, 25 sec heating time, milk frothing, automatic shut-off, cup sizes and water hardness programming, partially made of a recycled plastic
The Breville Nespresso Essenza is the smallest single-serve coffee and espresso coffee maker that is Nespresso compatible. This espresso machine that is easy to transport has a smooth and slick design that ensures it won’t look out of place on any countertop surface.
Despite the small size, the Essenza maintains the power of larger Nespresso coffee machines by having the 19 bar pressure system. This ensures that espressos and coffees can be made in just 25 seconds from pushing the operating button. This machine also has the milk-frothing capability, giving that extra creaminess to your coffees.
The Essenza is also remarkably versatile, giving users the options of having espressos and coffees. The two operating buttons are easily accessed on the top of the machine. If you prefer iced coffee drinks, simply add ice to your glass and you can enjoy a great tasting iced coffee. This is why the Essenza has become a really popular choice in recent times, as the compact and portable design allows you to have great coffee options while travelling.
Purchasing with Breville is a bonus through receiving a complimentary 14 Nespresso coffee capsule gift. This is a perfect opportunity to work out your preferred flavors so that you can make a customized Nespresso capsule order suited to your tastes. The Essenza is market-leading and unique. If you are not too fussed about having a limited water tank and used capsule storage, this Nespresso machine is the perfect choice for those seeking great-quality coffee in a portable unit.
More features: 29.1-inch-long cable, 25 sec heating time, 5 cup sizes programming, automatic shut-off, manual flow stopping option
The DeLonghi ENV150GY Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a budget pick Nespresso coffee machine that contains smart exterior design and a great range of coffee options from small 1.35 ounce espressos to larger 14 ounce Alto coffees which can be made in 20-25 seconds.
Despite having a budget price, the Vertuo Plus many of the benefits of DeLonghi’s world-famous Italian design and engineering. Design features include using smart technology to deliver the best in-cup results for large creamy coffees, manual flow stopping to allow users to customize their coffee sizes as well as automatic shut-off 9 minutes after the operation to ensure minimal energy usage.
One of the main benefits of Vertuo Plus is a large water tank that can hold 40 ounces of water. This compares well to other more expensive Nespresso machines on the market and will allow you to get a large number of coffees for every refill. This makes the Vertuo Plus convenient to use. There is also a great range of coffees available including espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, coffee and alto. This range of choices of coffee sizes compares very well to some premium machines. You can even make iced coffees by adding ice to your coffee cup.
One downside of using this machine is that the machine is only compatible with Nespresso capsules. This can be a frustration for some who wish to make use of other coffee capsule manufacturers. Despite this, purchasing comes with a welcome kit that features Nespresso Vertuo Plus capsules which is ideal to get you started.
More features: recognizes capsules, drip tray integrated, descaling indicator, cup support adjustments, 15-sec heat up time, cup sizes programming, automatic shut-off
The Breville Nespresso Vertuo is the premium Nespresso coffee machine that is known for its convenience and ease to use. For those who do not want to be confronted with a coffee machine that is difficult to operate, the Vertuo is perfectly designed to eliminate any stress from the coffee-making process.
Built with usability in mind, the Vertuo contains a variety of design features that maximize convenience. These include a used capsule container that can store anything between 13-20 capsules, a 40-ounce water tank that can produce a larger amount of coffees on every refill as well as cup support adjustments to ensure there is minimal splashing. The range of coffees that can be made goes from small size espressos (1.35 ounces) to large alto coffees (14 ounces). These are easily operated from the buttons at the top of the machine.
The Vertuo uses Nespresso’s CentrifusionTM technology uses barcodes to recognize Nespresso capsules and deliver fantastic tasting coffees. The crema ensures that even large coffees will contain that creamy feel without needing to add any milk. This technology makes the coffees in only 15 seconds, which is one of the fastest coffee speeds in the market.
In addition to quickly made coffees, the Vertuo uses energy-saving technology such as the automatic shut-off to prevent you from using too much daily energy. This machine is perfectly suited to coffee lovers who want a machine that is easy and convenient to use.
More features: fits into a backpack side pocket, color choice, 0.74 lb weight, cleaning brush included, ground coffee compatible
The Wacaco Nanopresso is a unique portable Nespresso compatible device that can deliver high-quality coffee on-the-go. This machine is not built to be placed in kitchen units but solely for those who are on the move.
The Nanopresso uses a newly patented super pumping system to generate the coffee and requires no battery or electric power. Through the power of your hands, all that is required is some stable pumping pressure which then creates a great tasting coffee. This machine requires 15% less pumping power compared to the Minipresso. The hands are also protected from any heating from the water thanks to a heatsink pattern which absorbs the heat. A disadvantage is that you need to add boiling water to the device before pumping as the machine alone cannot generate sufficient energy to boil water.
Weighing only 0.74 lb, the Nanopresso is supremely lightweight and can easily fit into a rucksack. Despite its lightweight feel, the machine is remarkably robust and will last a long time. The water capacity is 80ml which is more than sufficient for a coffee but will not be adequate if you like larger coffee sizes.
Another great advantage of the Nanopresso is that it is also compatible with other manufacturers of coffee capsules which makes it a convenient coffee machine. The machine is also compatible with ground coffee, giving users further coffee choices. This is the only machine reviewed that can cater for capsule and ground coffee.
The buying guide below provides all the essential information that you need to know before purchasing a Nespresso machine.
The following are the benefits of owning a Nespresso machine:
Limitations of owning a Nespresso machineOwning a Nespresso machine can be great but it can have the following limitations:
If you are a coffee lover and you do not want to be bothered by the process of grinding the beans, scooping the grounded coffee and boiling water using a kettle, a Nespresso machine could be something that you need. These machines use capsules just like tea bags to make you excellent coffee.
Whichever way you want to make your coffee, you will need two important ingredients; the coffee itself and water. For you to make the perfect coffee, the water should be at a temperature of around 88-96 degrees Celsius.
The following are the steps that you need to follow when making coffee using a Nespresso machine:
The Nespresso machines reviewed above range from $80 to $400. You need to consider the amount of money that you have or willing to spend n a Nespresso machine. Choose your purchase carefully if you want to spend money on a quality machine.
The high-priced Nespresso machines will have extra features such as multiple frothers, more drink options, larger tanks and memory programming.
Mid-priced Nespresso machines can make cappuccinos and lattes as well as have an automatic milk frother.
The cheaper machines have no frothers and only offer one or two size options. They are lightweight and more compact in design.
Consider the following features before buying a Nespresso machine:
Some machines such as the Breville Nespresso Vertuo brew as fast as 15 seconds while others take up to a minute to brew the coffee. Depending on how quickly you want your coffee, you will always have it in under a minute.
It should be easy for you to customize your Nespresso machine. You should be able to make your coffee just how you like it. Some machines allow you to make your preferred size of coffee by having a stop button that you can press when you have enough coffee.
The standard Nespresso machine has the options of making espresso and coffee, while other machines have several options that will allow you to make other types such as cappuccino, latte or even macchiato.
This will depend on the number of people that will be using the Nespresso machine every day. If you are getting a machine that will be used at the office, get a Nespresso machine with a larger water tank such as the DeLonghi ENV150GY Nespresso Vertuo Plus.
However, if you are getting one to be used by two people in a home, a smaller water tank capacity is preferred.
You need to consider the amount of counter space you are willing to give up to store your Nespresso machine. If you have a small space, a smaller Nespresso machine is for you. But if you have enough space, you can get yourself a bigger machine. But the machine should look great in your kitchen counter.
The weight of the machine also matters. If you plan on moving the machine to another storage space after use, consider buying a lighter coffee machine. However, if you do not need to move the machine around, a heavier one is not that bad at all.
Most Nespresso machines have a removable dry tray and waste container. This is to allow you to remove the parts and clean them after every use. If you need to replace any of these parts contact the Nespresso Club for more information
Depending on your counter space, there are different designs of Nespresso machines. Some are tall and thin while others are wider. You can also find Nespresso machines such as the Wacaco Nanopresso that are portable and do not need the use of electricity to make coffee, you just need to add in warm water and use your hand pump and make your coffee.
AccessoriesSome Nespresso machines such as the Breville Nespresso Essenza come with accessories such as a complimentary gift of a range of coffee capsules as well as a cleaning brush.
If you end up with a Nespresso machine that is hard to operate, you will not enjoy using it. There are things to consider when it comes to ease of use of a Nespresso machine. One is the control panel or the user interface.
The control panel should be straightforward and easy to understand and locate the buttons. Also, its operations should be intuitive so that you do not have to look at the manual every time you want to prepare coffee. It should also be easy to clean the machine.
One that comes with a descaler is more convenient and makes cleaning much easy as it helps with the mineral build-up, making the machine more durable.
The most important decision for you to make is whether to choose the Vertuoline or the Originaline Nespresso machine. Both brew fantastic coffees and work well but is suitable for the different types of coffee lovers.
Most people have been using Originaline Nespresso machines for many years and they use the standard size capsules to prepare lungo, ristrettos and espressos. They make coffee by pricking the capsule and using high pressure it runs hot water through the capsule and allows the brewed coffee to move down into the cup.
Vertuoline, on the other hand, is a new line of Nespresso machines that solves the problem of low-quality and cheap capsules facing Originaline users.
These machines target the Northern American markets that prefer larger servings. Originaline Nespresso machines make both coffee and espresso because they have two sizes of capsules. The pods and the machine make use of barcodes to make sure that the machine knows exactly how to brew the coffee. There are no third-party capsules similar to the Vertuoline capsules.
To increase the lifespan of your Nespresso machine as well as maintain the quality of the coffee, regular maintenance is important. This can be achieved by running water through the machine after every use, also making sure that the coffee capsule is not in the machine when doing this.
Descaling regularly is also important. Take into account the quality of water that you are using as well
It is important to have a guarantee of your money in any purchase that you make. This is through a warranty and different manufacturers have different warranties for their products. Generally, the Nespresso machines reviewed above have a one-year warranty. Make sure to confirm with your manufacturer before buying the machine.
The following tips will help you prepare a perfect cup of coffee for you to enjoy:
This process will also help in cleaning the machine to enable you to enjoy the rich flavor of the coffee.
First, prepare a shot of espresso and serve it in your cup, then remove the used capsule and run hot water through the machine into your cup. The coffee will be more like an Americano and less strong than an Espresso.
Nespresso single-serve Espresso machines have two types of capsule; the lungo variety and the standard Espresso capsule and each contain varying amounts of coffee. Since there are corresponding settings in a Nespresso machine, you can always match the capsule and the settings to make your desired coffee.
There are signs that your Nespresso machine needs descaling: one is the less flavor in the coffee and the other is that your coffee is not as hot as it used to be. Descaling will bring back your coffee to hot, tasty and delicious. Regular descaling also increases the longevity of your Nespresso machine.
Running hot water through the basket and the head is a simple way of cleaning your machine. Empty the tray as well because stagnant water is a place of breeding bacteria and this is unhygienic. You can avoid this situation by simply wiping the tray clean every day.
The following video will give you three tips on how you can make yourself the perfect coffee:
Before you go out and buy the best Nespresso machine based purely on reviews, check out the answers to these FAQs:
Just spare 30 minutes every month to descale your machine and it will serve you for a longer period. Most machines come with a descaling mode; all you need to do is read the manual on the steps that you need to follow and then descale your machine.
For effective cleaning, always remove the used capsule immediately after the coffee is made and then run hot water through it after every time you use the machine. You also need to use a cleaning capsule every few months to clean the chamber.
This used to be the case but Nestle, the manufacturer of Nespresso, has made it possible for their customers to use capsules from its competitors without risking their warranties. So, now you can get a wide variety of different flavors to try at a competitive price as well as gaining access to great customer service.
Hopefully, this article has provided you with all the essential information that you need to know about Nespresso machines to maximize your chances of buying a great value product that serves your daily coffee needs.
Our verdict on the top three best Nespresso machines is:
The Breville Nespresso CitiZ comes top of our rankings because of its elegant exterior design and energy-saving technology. With one of the largest capacities at 34 oz and features like water hardness programming, folding drip tray, 25-sec heat up time, and automatic shut-off, this machine is one of the best.
The DeLonghi EN560W Nespresso Lattissima Touch finishes second in the ranking due to the large variety of coffee options as well as the milk frother. It also comes with features like an automatic shut-off, soft-touch controls, removable drip tray, automatic milk system, and water hardness programming.
The Breville Nespresso Pixie comes third in our rankings because of its durable, robust and compact design that can easily fit into a kitchen space. As one of the easiest machines to use, the Breville machine recognizes multiple types of capsules, is drip tray integrated, has a descaling indicator, and also has an automatic shut-off feature.
Make sure you take time to research online and read customer reviews of products before committing to purchasing the best Nespresso machine to suit your needs to have to best value product.
