Buying a Nespresso machine was an easier process in the past because they all worked and acted alike. But Nowadays, there have been several upgrades. Some are now equipped with steaming wands, milk frothers, and the latest versions can be operated using a smartphone. Don’t get it wrong. We aren’t trying to discredit the improvements; they have all been put in place for users to have more delicious coffees, while enjoying a hassle-free brewing experience.
However, these diversities of Nespresso machines and the presence of several manufacturing companies have made it nearly impossible for coffee lovers to buy one without going through stress and severe thinking. Hopefully this guide can bring some value and help you choose the best Nespresso machine. This buyer’s guide is equipped with all you need to know about the Nespresso machine and the necessary information required to narrow down your selection to one that will serve you right. Let’s begin by learning some basic things about Nespresso.
The 7 Best Nespresso Machines
What is Nespresso?
The word “Nespresso” came into existence by combining the letter “N” from Nestle with the word “espresso,” this blend of words known as a portmanteau was chosen by Nestle group for their unit that will see to the production of a special kind of coffee brewer. But as time went on, there begin to be other brands in the niche, manufacturing the same kind of Nespresso like machines. And therefore, Nespresso graduated from being an ordinary company name to machines that use a special brewing principle.
The machines make use of the same brewing process, which is to make brews from coffee pods, also known as capsules. Coffee pods are finely coffee grounds of the same roast and size packaged in a capsule-like tube. When a capsule is placed in a Nespresso machine, the machine breaks into the pod and uses a predetermined amount of water from its reservoir to make a tasty coffee blend. Nowadays these newly made sophisticated coffee pod machines can read the barcodes on the capsules to brew according to the parameters and instructions stated by the pod maker.
The beverages made by Nespresso machines are highly tasty and delicious but are less concentration than the average espresso.
Why buy a Nespresso Machine?
Nespresso machines can be quite expensive. They are costlier than a Moka Pot or French press, and almost the same price as an Espresso machine. So, why should anyone go for this unique brewer when there are cheaper alternatives, and its price range equals that of a widely known Espresso machine? A Nespresso is more than a special brewer because it has many benefits to offer to the user. These advantages include;
Easy and faster brewing experiences
Coffee brewing cannot be more straightforward. Nespresso machines make the process more enjoyable without any complication. Even a new user can make a brew within 2 minutes with the press of a few buttons. Unlike other brewers, there’s no need for special skills; nor a learning curve. Besides, the brewing process does not include the problematic part of grinding and ensuring consistent coffee ground size. I can hear you say that’s my kind of brewer!
Consistent coffee quality
Once you have selected the flavor of your coffee pod, you are left to enjoy a consistent brew of your favorite coffee. The machine will decide the amount of water to use to get the same degree of concentration on every brew. You will always enjoy the same level of sweetness/bitterness and crema every morning with this brewer. What an incredible machine!
Hassle-free cleaning process
After every use, cleaning the brewer is a common practice among all coffee lovers, especially for those that use Moka pots and French presses. A household Espresso machine will cost you extra in descaling or washing powder to remove the acidity that has been piled up in its internal compartment. In some cases, there may be a need for disassembling your brewer. However, one of the key benefits of Nespresso machines is that they are self-cleaning, and most of them possess a large waste tank for used capsules. There won’t be much cleaning if you are following all the instructions accordingly.
Choosing the Best Nespresso Machine for You
Before going to market or scouting through online stores, there are some factors to consider before deciding on the best Nespresso coffee machine. These factors will enable you to realize what your needs are and which Nespresso coffee maker will be best for you. For a better understanding, The Coffee Guru has decided to put some of them in the question:
Nespresso VertuoLine Vs. OriginalLine?
Your choice of coffee pod machine will depend on the type of coffee pods you want to brew. The Nestle Nespresso machines are produced in two lines: VertuoLine and OriginalLine. Each line has it own set of Nespresso coffee pods- VertuoLine and the OriginalLine.
The OriginalLine was created first, hence the name Original. This line offers a large selection of capsule flavors compared to the VertuoLine, and since Nespresso’s cup shape capsule patent has expired, it has opened up the opportunities for many third party companies to produce their own flavor of coffee pods for the OriginalLine Nespresso. Be sure to check out Gourmesso: Organic, Fairtrade Coffee Pods for a wide array of Nespresso compatible pods.
The Nespresso Extraction Process
The OriginalLine Nespresso coffee makers work using a pressure-based principle to break into the pod and force water into it through an internal pump at a pressure of 19-bars, very similar to how traditional espresso is brewed. The brewing process is finished when the bottom of the pod erupts.
The VertuoLine capsules were introduced in 2014, along with a new VertuoLine machines. They offer a limited selection of pod flavors that deliver a much thicker crema.
Centrifusion is the term for describing the working principle of the VertuoLine machines. The term is coined from the word Centrifugation, which is the spinning of small tubes at an incredible speed to separate fluids into components. When a pod is inserted, the machine supplies hot water into it and then spins it at 7000rpm to brew the coffee. This rigorous process delivers much thicker coffees compared to the OriginalLine model, and the brewing process is much quieter. However, coffees made by the Original are hotter.
Another fantastic feature of the VertuoLine model is the barcode scanner system. It’s integrated into the machines to read and interpret the barcodes written on the VertuoLine coffee pods. These barcodes will help the machine create a suitable brewing condition for the pods according to the manufacturers’ instructions. The conditions include water flow rate, temperature, water volume, spinning speed, etc.
The Various Brewing Sizes
These two models also show differences in their cup sizes. For instance, the OriginalLine coffee pod machines offer two main cup sizes: 1.35oz Espresso and 3.70oz Lungo. Only a few of them offer the 0.5oz Ristretto. The VertuoLine machines provides a wide variety of sizes that include 1.35oz Espresso, 2.7oz Double Espresso, 5.0oz Gran Lungo, 7.8oz Coffee, and 14oz Alto LX Coffee. You can also make a 17oz Coffee in a single brew.
A more pronounced difference between these two is the price. The OriginalLine coffee machines can still fit into your low budget, but the VertuoLine models will cost more.
Nespresso Vs. Keurig Pod Machines
Nespresso and Keurig are the two most popular companies and top competitors in the production of single-serve coffee machines. As mentioned earlier, Nespresso is a unit of the Nestle group, and it is based in Switzerland. They have partnered with other companies like De’longhi, Phillips, and Breville in creating high-quality capsule coffee machines. They are also the primary producers of VertuoLine and OriginalLine capsules. Nespresso products have been a dominating force in the production of coffee pod machines around European countries.
Keurig, on the other hand, is a Northern American beverage company. This brand has numerous coffee machine models, and they have partnered with lots of companies to produce coffee pods. One of their targets is to provide a brewer for all kinds of households and establishments with different budget levels.
The joy of going for Keurig is that they are less expensive and provide lots of brewing options. Nespresso products are expensive with lesser brewing pod options.
Don’t forget that Keurig offers lots of sizing options, but the problem with their models is that the bigger sizes tend to be more diluted and less rich. If you really care for thicker coffee flavors, then the Nespresso Vertuo machines are the way to go.
Size of Nespresso Machine
The size of a Nespresso machine is determined by the capacity of the water reservoir, waste bin and built-in milk frother (if included). The bigger the compartments, the greater the size of the coffee pod machine. The Lattissima and Creatista from the OriginalLine Nespresso model come with built-in Milk frothers, while the Vertuo models don’t. The addition of the milk-frothers make the brewer much more expensive, and if you’re looking at the Vertuo models, but want a milk frother, you can also bundle it with Nespresso’s Aeroccino Simple and easy Milk Frother.
Coffee Drinks
Do you prefer Espresso beverages or love to take ordinary coffee flavors? The Nespresso Original machines are your best picks for the espressos. You should also consider any of the Original Nespresso machines if you like milk coffees like Lattes and Cappuccinos, since a few of the models come with built-in milk frothers and can produce these types of coffees with a touch of a button. Though the Vertuo machines don’t come with any built-in milk frothers, they can easily be combined with standalone milk frothers like the Nespresso Aeroccino.
As for the large selection of coffee drink flavors, since Nespresso’s capsule patent has expired, many third party coffee companies have started producing delicious flavors for the Nespresso OriginalLine, you may even find coffee pods from your favorite coffee shops like Starbucks!
The Pros and Cons of Nespresso OriginalLine and VertuoLine machines
Nespresso OriginalLine
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Wide range of brewing models and capsule flavours.The Lattissima and Creatista come with a built-in milk frother.
Less expensive than the VertuoLine.[/i2pros][i2cons]Machines only brew espresso
No barcode technology
Louder brewers[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso VertuoLine
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Offers a wider range of coffee sizes.“Centrifusion” Technology that delivers easy and consistent brewing results, with thicker crema.
A much quieter brewer than the OriginalLine. [/i2pros][i2cons]Less selection in models and coffee capsules.
The VertuoLine is much more expensive.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Nespresso Machines
Now is the time for you to make a choice. We believe that you now have a picture of your coffee pod machine in your head. Below are some of the best in the market. They are brought to you based on customer reviews and their high performances.
Nespresso CitiZ
This award-winning capsule coffee machine is a combo of aesthetic design and functionality. Nespresso Citiz is one of the most affordable and high-efficiency Nespresso coffee makers on the market. Preheating this machine to the brewing temperature will take about 25 seconds, and the press of the start button will supply a 19-bar pressure to the coffee pods. It is designed to produce 1.75oz Espresso and 3.5oz Lungo coffee drinks but can produce more when reprogrammed. It offers a huge removable 34oz water reservoir, so there won’t be the need to refill the water reservoir after every use. Its waste tank has a capacity for 10 used capsules.
- High performance: The 19 bar pump system offers barista-style single-serve coffee or Espresso every time, perfectly extracting the delicate flavor of each Espresso Original Coffee capsule
- Speed and Energy saving: the fast heat-up system reaches the ideal temperature in just 25 seconds. The automatic Energy saving function Switches the machine off after 9 minutes of inactivity and can be extended from 9 to 30 minutes
- Versatility: Adjustable cup size with two programmable Espresso (1. 35 oz. ) and Lungo (5 oz. ) buttons, making CitiZ a great coffee maker for all your single-serve coffee needs
- Design: citiz's look continues to Please both Espresso drinkers and design lovers, adding a touch of elegance to coffee rituals.
- Complimentary gift: Each machine includes a Espresso Original capsule welcome kit with a range of capsules with unique aroma profile..Power: 1710 Watt
Dimensions: 15.6 x 15.2 x 15 inches
Weight: 9.35 pounds
Water Tank: 30.4oz. / 0.9 L.
Waste Tank: 9-11 Capsules
Nespresso CitiZ Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Stylish and ergonomic.It automatically switches off after 9minutes of idleness.
Capsules can be easily inserted and removed from the machine.
Brews delicious coffee.
It can be used with a milk frother to make cappuccinos and latte.[/i2pros][i2cons]Very noisy.
The drip tray can use a redesign.
Doesn’t work well with large cups.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso VertuoPlus by De’Longhi
Consistency, high efficiency, and reliability packed in one product. This Nespresso machine is the right one for those with a tight schedule. It makes brewing so easy and fast that you can have your coffee in a matter of a minute, just with a click of a button. It is brought to you by the partnership of Nespresso and De’longhi, another prominent company in the beverage industry. This model uses barcode technology to make the best blends out of all capsules. You can make all sizes of cups conveniently in just one brew, from the smallest 1.35oz Espresso to the biggest 14oz Alto XL Coffee. You will never run out of water with its large removable 60-ounce water reservoir. Its heat-generating capacity is magnificent; this machine will heat up in just 15 seconds!
- VERSATILE AUTOMATIC COFFEE MAKER: VertuoPlus Deluxe makes both coffee and espresso in a variety of sizes; 5oz, 8oz Coffee and single and double Espresso. Pour over ice to create your favorite iced Coffee drinks.
- SMART COFFEE MACHINE: Brew the perfect single serve Coffee or Espresso drink time after time, thanks to Nespresso's Centrifusion technology using barcodes to deliver the best in cup results including the perfect crema for large Coffee cup sizes.
- WE RECYCLE: Nespresso aluminum pods are fully recyclable and guarantee coffee freshness - we provide different options for recycling your used aluminum coffee pods to fulfill our collective commitment to protecting the environment.
- SINGLE SERVE COFFEE MACHINE: Have the ability to create barista grade brewed single serve Coffee or Espresso cups at the touch of a single button; Designed for use with Nespresso Vertuo pods only.
- FEATURES: Large 60 ounce water tank and a 10 count used pods container; This Nespresso machine also has a fast heat up time of only 15 seconds; There is an energy saving automatic shutoff at 9 minutes of inactivity.
Dimensions: 5.6 x 16.7 x 12.8 inches
Weight: 10.27 pounds
Water Tank: 60oz. / 1.77 L.
Waste Tank: 10 Capsules
Nespresso VertuoPlus by De’Longhi Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Brews delicious and rich coffee.It produces thicker beverages.
Fast heat up.
Easy usability.
Brews 5 cup sizes.[/i2pros][i2cons]Bulky
Only brews Vertuo capsules. Can’t brew OriginalLine.
Expensive.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville with Aeroccino 3
This is a Nespresso machine in the VertuoPlus series. It has a similar design to the previous one but was created in partnership with Breville, a renowned company in coffee appliances. The VertuoLine machine uses barcode technology to scan the capsules’ instructions to make the optimal brew of all blends. It also serves all the five cup sizes expected from a Vertuo coffee pod machine. The efficiency of this product is much guaranteed, in that it spins coffee capsules at a speed of 7000rpm. And for this reason, your coffee drinks are always going to be much thicker, and delicious. The only difference between this one and the previous machine is that it comes with an Aeroccino 3 milk frother to enjoy beverages like latte and cappuccino.
- SINGLE SERVE COFFEE and ESPRESSO MACHINE: Single serve coffee or espresso at the touch of a button. Innovative programs and features such as 25 sec heat up and energy saving automatic shut off..Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- COFFEE FOR EVERY OCCASION: Brew better coffee at home with Nespresso's coffee espresso machine. Drink your coffee bold, mild hot, or iced.
- VERSATILE COFFEE MAKER: Brew 4 different cup sizes at the touch of a button (5oz and 8oz coffee, single and double espresso). Pour over ice to create your favorite blend of iced coffee and lattes.
- AEROCCINO MILK FROTHER INCLUDED: The Nespresso Aeroccino3 provides smooth hot or cold milk froth for your coffee recipes in a few seconds with one touch.
- COMPLIMENTARY GIFT: Each machine includes a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules (capsule assortment may vary from picture).
Dimensions: 14.75 x 11 x 15.5 inches
Weight: 10.1 pounds
Water Tank: 40oz. / 1.18 L.
Waste Tank: 10 Capsules
Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville with Aeroccino 3 Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Quick Heat up.Very easy to clean.
Comes with Aeroccino 3 Milk Frother.
Brews 5 cup sizes.[/i2pros][i2cons]Some buyers experienced leaking, but Nespresso replaced product.
Only brews Vertuo capsules.
Bulky.
Expensive.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso Inissia by De’Longhi
Here’s the product that can help you make the most out of your little budget. A small, compact, and fashionable Original model of Nespresso machine. It can fit entirely within a small space and will blend with any environment. This machine uses a 19-bar pressure pump system and will heat your water to the brewing temperature in just 25 seconds. Its holding capacity is relatively small compared to the previous products, but you can make 9-single serve coffees from its 24-ounce water tank. With that capacity, you can still enjoy an Espresso or Lungo cup size of coffee several times. The waste bin can hold up to 11 used capsules. It starts with a press of either the Espresso or Lungo button, and it automatically switches off after 9 minutes of inactivity.
- Compact machine offers 2 programmable cup sizes; Espresso Lungo
- 19 bar high-pressure pump for barista-style flavor and aroma
- Fast heat-up system reaches ideal temperature in just 25 seconds
- Automatic shut-off feature 9 minutes after last use
- Machine is compatible with Nespresso Original espresso capsules.
Dimensions: 12.6 x 4.7 x 9 inches
Weight: 5.29 pounds
Water Tank: 23.7oz. / 0.7 L.
Waste Tank: 11 Capsules
Nespresso Inissia by De’Longhi Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Auto turn off.Compact design.
Quick heat up
Available in various colors.[/i2pros][i2cons]Poor drip tray design for larger cups.
Loud brewer.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso Creatista Plus by Breville
Made from stainless steel, one of the best materials in the beverage industry. This capsule coffee machine is your best choice in the market, provided you have a large budget or ready to stretch your purse. However, longevity, performance, and high-efficiency are assured. With this Nespresso machine, your water is ready for brewing coffee in just about 3 seconds because of its ThermoJet heater. Apart from the excellent performance, this machine will always provide a consistent blend of Espresso and Lungo drinks, with a selection of 8 beverages to choose from and 11 milk settings. It’s also one of the very few machines that serve the Ristretto cup size.
There’s an built-in milk frother to make your latte and cappuccino drink at ease. This is the first product in this review of the best Nespresso coffee machine to feature steam wand technology. It is also has the largest water reservoir of 60 ounces.
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
Dimensions: 6.7 x 16.1 x 12.2 inches
Weight: 10.9 pounds
Water Tank: 50.72oz. / 1.50 L.
Waste Tank: 10 Capsules
Nespresso Creatista Plus by Breville Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Made from stainless steel.Beautiful design.
8 Drink Selections.
11 Milk Settings.
Heats up in 3 seconds.
60oz water reservoir.
2-Year warranty.[/i2pros][i2cons]Very expensive.
Frothing wand can’t move freely.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso Lattissina Plus by De’Longhi
Made in a unique and classic design that allows flexibility and customization. A perfect machine for making your Espresso, Lungo, Latte, Cappuccino, and warm milk. It has a built-in milk carafe that can contain about 12oz of milk and does excellently in serving milk with your coffee beverage. The 19-bar pressure pump is there for you to make the best out of your OriginalLine capsule blends. It has a 30 ounces water reservoir and a waste tank that can hold about 10 used capsules. The machines also features a sliding drip tray that is compatible with large and small coffee mugs and glasses. Its most excellent feature is a built-in rinse function that alerts and cleans the machine when needed. You see! We weren’t exaggerating when we mentioned that some machines are self-cleaning!
- Perfect cup of Espresso and Lungo: 2 programmable coffee selections (Espresso and Lungo).
- Indulge at the touch of a button: Simple one-touch button for espresso incomparable cappuccino, latte macchiato, creamy latte or warm milk froth suitable for many coffee milk recipes.
- Intuitive alerts High standards cleanliness: Manual clean system with a hygienic certification granted by an external laboratory to ensure higher standards of cleanliness. All Milk system components are dishwasher proof to ease the maintenance.
- High performance: 19-bar high-pressure pump system coffee, Fast heat-uptime: 25 seconds (coffee) +15 sec. (milk beverages)
- Machine is compatible with Nespresso Original espresso capsules.
Dimensions: 6.8 x 12.6 x 10.15 inches
Weight: 9.9 pounds
Water Tank: 30.4oz. / 0.89 L.
Waste Tank: 10 Capsules
Nespresso Lattissina Plus by De’Longhi Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Fast heat up.6 OneTouch coffee recipes
Milk froth regulator
Self-cleaning.[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive.
Not very compact.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville
Are you looking for a cheaper, small-sized, and high-efficient Nespresso machine? If yes, here’s the product for you. This Nespresso coffee machine has gotten many positive reviews and recommendations from buyers. This machine is about three feet wide and can fit into small spaces. You should consider it if you want a lightweight brewer that can be carried along for trips.
Its small size never takes away essential features. Your barista standard Espresso and Lungo beverage will be ready in about 30 seconds. The 19-bar pressure pump will optimally brew all the flavors in the coffee pods. The machine starts at the click of a button, enters a low-energy state in 3 minutes of idleness, and powers off by itself after 9 minutes of inactivity.
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted.Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
- ESPRESSO MACHINE: Enjoy a full range of espresso coffee with Nespresso.; Includes 25 second heat up and energy saving automatic shut off.
- BARISTA GRADE: Offers an impeccable single-serve coffee or Espresso cup , with this minimalistic beauty that incorporates a compact design with unrivaled quality to create the perfect cup of coffee every time; The Essenza Mini espresso machine brews 2 single-serve cup sizes all with just one-touch of a button.
- FOR ALL COFFEE DRINKERS: Embody the expertise of Nespresso with a user friendly, classic Espresso machine.
- INCLUDES: One Nespresso espresso maker with a compact design that is easy to place and move around in any kitchen.
Dimensions: 12.9 x 3.3 x 8 inches
Weight: 5.95 pounds
Water Tank: 20.29oz. / 0.6 L
Waste Tank: 5-6 Capsules
Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville Pros and Cons
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”PROS” cons_title=”CONS” ][i2pros]Beautiful compact design.Affordable.
Energy saving, auto turn off.
Brews delicious coffee.[/i2pros][i2cons]Only two brewing sizes.
Small waste tank.
Small water reservoir.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Conclusion
Choosing the best Nespresso machine is not about searching the market for high performance and long-lasting products because since you will never run out of options. Instead, it’s an art that involves understanding your needs, coffee taste, and the money you are willing to pay. Nespresso machines have become the ultimate go to when it comes to coffee pod machines. The company delivers amazing customer service and has a large community of coffee lovers that stand strong behind its products. We hope you have enjoyed this guide and that it has helped you find the right best Nespresso coffee machine for you. Thanks for your time, and we wish you good luck in your selection!
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