If you’re shopping for a new coffee machine and you’re looking for convenience first and foremost, there is no substitute for a single-serve machine.
Nespresso has a dominant presence in this space, the only serious challenger for Keurig’s crown in the vertical.
While Nespresso machines couldn’t be easier to use, choosing the most suitable model can be much more challenging.
Luckily, we’re here to guide you today.
To make it easier for you to navigate our Nespresso machine reviews, we’ll first highlight some of the most important things to consider when you’re choosing one of these single-serve gems.
The primary consideration is which type of Nespresso machine makes the smoothest fit. You have a couple of options:
The flagship Original Line models make only espresso and lungo, with the exception of some models that also allow you to make ristretto. Just like with a regular espresso maker, you get your short shot through hot water and up to 19 bars of pressure for an authentic experience with no hassle.
The Vertuo Line Nespresso machines, by contrast, use centrifusion and lower temperatures to extract your coffee without requiring a pump. The downside of this method is a tendency to under-extraction with excessively foamy crema. These Nespresso machines give you the choice of coffee and espresso in a single appliance.
As you’ll see from our reviews, Nespresso have launched multiple co-branded partnerships. Breville and DeLonghi are the key players in this space, and we review a handful of models from both brands below.
Here are some of the most popular models in the Nespresso stable:
Once you have established which model makes the best fit, there are some general pointers to bear in mind if you want to streamline your buying decision:
Keep these pointers uppermost in mind and you should have no problem finding the right Nespresso machine for your needs.
Dive in and explore out reviews!
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The 11 Best Nespresso Machines
1. Our #1 Pick: Nespresso Essenza Mini Original Espresso Machine by DeLonghi
Features
First in line and our overall favorite Nespresso machine is a DeLonghi-branded iteration of the enduringly popular Essenza Mini.
Choose from a trio of colors, including this fire hydrant red example, ensuring this espresso machine makes a bold statement without eating up too much space on the kitchen counter.
This ultra-compact espresso maker comes equipped to deliver 19 bars of pressure, more than enough for authentic espresso the way the Italians love it.
Ease of use is perhaps the key selling point of all Nespresso machines, and the Essenza Mini couldn’t be simpler to use. Program one of two cup sizes for espresso or lungo and enjoy push-button convenience and capsule-based espresso.
If you wake craving coffee, the water will be up to temperature within 30 seconds of firing up your Essenza, so you can get your day started the right way.
This espresso maker requires capsules from the Original Line rather than the Vertuo Line. You get a welcome pack bundled so you can get going right out the box.
The compact and lightweight nature of this machine means it’s a great fit for dorm rooms, and it also works well in small kitchens and apartments.
While there is no dedicated iced coffee setting, you could simply pour your hot coffee over ice if you fancy something different on a hot summer day.
Aside from some isolated complaints about dripping, the vast bulk of user testimony is positive, with many users proclaiming this the best Nespresso machine in a broad, deep line.
2. Breville Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine
Features
Breville is another powerhouse company making co-branded Nespresso machines. What makes this iteration of the Vertuo coffee and espresso machine stand out, then?
Firstly, you’ll need to choose from multiple configurations. This iteration offers you the Aeroccino milk frother as well as the machine, as well as a starter set of capsules from the Vertuo line.
These newer generation Nespresso machines use barcode recognition to deliver smart functionality. Pop in the capsule and let the machine do the rest, optimizing temperature and brewing to suit the contents of the capsule. On the flip side, this does mean you are conclusively locked into buying proprietary capsules.
The removable water reservoir makes it easy to fill and keep clean, and this has a 40oz capacity to minimize refilling.
Pick from 4 different cup sizes from espresso through to a 7oz coffee and enjoy gourmet coffee with push-button effortlessness.
Even by the standards of Nespresso machines, this model heats up in a hurry, with the water up to temperature in just 15 seconds.
Use the bundled frother to add some hot or cold milk froth to your coffee and you’re getting barista-grade coffee without needing to leave home.
3. Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
Features
Next up in our showcase of the best Nespresso machines is a Breville-branded iteration of the Essenza Mini.
This cheap-and-cheerful model is from the Original Line, so you’ll need to choose some capsules from the wide array on offer. As with all Nespresso machines, you’ll get a welcome pack of 12 capsules thrown in.
The water will be up to temperature in just 25 seconds, and then you need only choose between a 1.35oz espresso or a 5oz lungo, push a button and then enjoy single serve coffee at its finest.
One of the primary benefits of the Essenza is the small form factor, making it a great choice for apartments or anywhere with crowded kitchen counters.
While you cannot expect the same caliber of espresso as you would enjoy from a semi-automatic or super-automatic espresso maker, you won’t need to take out a bank loan or master a new skill either. You will get 19 bars of pressure, though, more than enough for making authentic espresso.
Although the bulk of user reviews for this Breville Essenza Mini are positive, we found some scattered complaints about issues with consistency developing over time. Do your due diligence here.
Overall, you’re getting one of the best Nespresso machines if you prioritize ease of use, great espresso, and a compact footprint when you’re looking for a new coffee machine.
4. Nespresso Creatista Plus Espresso Machine by Breville
Features
Next in line is another co-branded Nespresso machine from Breville in the shape of the Creatista Plus. What differentiates this model, then?
Lovers of the uber-strong ristretto will appreciate this machine’s ability to pour a tiny but powerful 0.5oz shot to get the day started with a bang. You can also enjoy regular espresso as well as lungo with the Creatista Plus, giving you all the options you need for short, strong coffee.
Elegant and featuring sleek, clean lines, this stainless steel machine might not be the cheapest Nespresso machine, but it’s arguably among the very best.
Despite the commanding aesthetics, this coffee maker is lighter than it looks, so you’ll have no issue shifting it around without straining yourself.
You can go beyond these basics to tweak the coffee volume and the milk temperature to create some longer coffees, including flat whites, latte macchiato, and cappuccino. You get a stainless steel milk jug to help you build these gourmet longer coffees.
Smart functionality and a crisp, clear interface means you can navigate this machine even if you’re not the greatest tech-lover.
The oversized water reservoir cuts down on refilling. This is removable to streamline cleaning and filling.
Backed by a 2-year limited warranty, you’re getting a slick and highly effective Nespresso machine that gives you access to a comprehensive menu of coffee at the press of a button. What’s not to love?
5. Nespresso Citiz Coffee and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi
Features
DeLonghi serves up their iteration of the Nespresso Citiz here, giving you a straight-up espresso machine with a milk frother thrown in.
This model is not the strongest when it comes to longer coffees, but it makes a mean espresso.
Available in striking black or white colorways, you get a space-saving machine that punches above its negligible weight.
Rated at 1700 watts and capable of delivering 19 bars of pressure, you’ll get first-class short shots of espresso without needing to master using an automatic espresso maker.
Packing a 34oz water reservoir, you can make coffee for the whole family without needing to top up the tank.
The machine automatically shuts off after just 9 seconds of inactivity to promote energy efficiency. If required, you can extend this auto shut-off period to 30 seconds, ideal for busier kitchens.
You get a welcome pack of Nespresso capsules included with purchase, so you can see which of the signature blends takes your fancy.
Not only does this Nespresso machine deliver first-rate espresso and lungo, but it also makes a commanding statement on the kitchen counter.6. Nespresso Lattissima Pro Coffee and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi
Features
DeLonghi enters the fray once more with their version of the Nespresso Lattissima Pro. What do you get when you look at the upper end of the Nespresso line, then?
Firstly, this machine has the requisite good looks, although we would like to see less plastic and more stainless steel at this price point.
Under the hood you get a machine capable of kicking out 19 bars of pressure, ample for ensuring you get authentic espresso.
Even better? Like all Nespresso machines, you only need to insert some capsules and push a button to enjoy primo coffee at home.
The milk frother included allows you to build out longer, creamier coffees, but this is not the strength of this machine. The milk is automatically dispensed from the glass carafe during the extraction process, and a few users report issues in this area. Stick with espresso, on the other hand, and you won’t be disappointed.
Thanks to the highly efficient thermoblock heating system, the water is up to temperature in seconds flat.
If you’re looking for a versatile Nespresso machine that offers you access to a wide menu of beverages at the push of a button, you can’t go wrong here.
7. Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker by DeLonghi
Features
As we pass the midpoint of our quest for the best Nespresso machines, we have another great example from DeLonghi in the form of the Vertuo.
The Vertuo Line, as highlighted above, brings you the convenience of single-serve espresso along with the ability to make longer coffees, too.
Choose from 5 vibrant colorways to suit, and you’ll benefit from a squat and compact coffee machine ideal for busy kitchen counters.
You also get a choice of 5 different drink sizes, from a small single espresso through to a longer 7.77oz coffee, giving you something for all the family.
As you would expect from a machine placing convenience uppermost, the water reservoir is substantial at 54oz, and also removable for ease of cleaning and refilling.
You will need to invest in some capsules from the new and improved Vertuo Line, and these come equipped with barcode recognition, delivering smart functionality and optimized coffee rolled into one.
Setting aside a handful of gripes about quality control, almost all users sing the praises of this flexible and effective DeLonghi Nespresso machine.
8. Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine
Features
Stepping up from the baseline Vertuo to the Next, what do you get for your money with this Breville-branded iteration?
Well, here you get the machine only with no milk frother and no capsules either. In return, you’ll pick up the Vertuo Next at a very keen price point.
The core benefit of the newer generation Vertuo Line of Nespresso machines is the ability you get to make longer coffees as well as lip-smacking espresso.
Finished in a muted matte black, this machine would set off any modernist or minimalist kitchen.
As well as allowing you to whip up single or double espresso at the push of a button, you can also create bigger beverages with coffees from 5oz through 18oz at your fingertips.
Another key selling point of this model is its super-slim footprint, even by the standards of most compact Nespresso machines.
With a choice of over 30 different blends, capsule-based coffee has never tasted this good.
If pushed to find fault with this model, we found a few complaints about the quality of the crema, but this is always an issue with single-serve espresso machines rather than a flaw specific to this model. On the plus side, you don’t have the hassle or the expense of a semi-automatic espresso machine to deal with here, so it’s not a deal-breaker.
9. Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker
Features
As we near the end of our collection of the best Nespresso machines, we have a discontinued model in the shape of the Inissia. Don’t let the fact this model has been put out to pasture discourage you from exploring what this punchy espresso maker has to offer.
One of the Original Line of Nespresso machines, you benefit from just espresso and lungo, ideal if you exclusively drink short shots, but a potential disappointment if you’re looking for more variety in your beverage menu.
The lack of choice when it comes to coffee makes this model among the very easiest to use of all Nespresso machines.
Despite offering pioneering performance, the styling of this espresso maker is decidedly retro. This iteration is finished in bright red, but you can choose from several other more understated colorways.
With a rapid preheating time of just 25 seconds and the 19 bars of pressure you need to generate a classic espresso, this model gives you everything you need and nothing you don’t need.
10. Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by DeLonghi
Features
As we near the end of our search for the best Nespresso machines, we have another offering from the new and improved Vertuo Line.
Like all machines in this fresh generation of Nespresso machines, you get to enjoy both espresso and longer coffees from one highly capable machine.
Pick from 4 colorways to coordinate with your kitchen then enjoy the push-button convenience of a single-serve coffee machine, cutting down on waste while increasing convenience, and all of this without compromising the quality of the coffee in your cup.
The free starter pack of capsules give you a taste of the 30 blends at your disposal if you invest in the impressive Vertuo Line. Thanks to bar code recognition, you benefit from smart functionality and the best coffee every single time.
A 40oz water tank cuts down on refilling, while the used capsule container has space for up to 17 spent coffee capsules, completing a winning package from a brand you can trust.
11. Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine by Breville
Features
Last but not least is a strong contender for the best Nespresso machine in the guise of the Pixie. How does this model stand and fall, then?
Firstly, this is a raw espresso machine, so you can choose from espresso or lungo and that’s the limit.
Of the several configurations available, this is the base offering of the machine only. You can also pick up the Pixie with a milk frother bundled.
Made from BPA-free ABS plastic, this is a lightweight, portable, and compact addition to your kitchen.
Featuring a pump capable of putting out 19 bars of pressure, this is a great way to bring home authentic espresso, but without needing to master a complicated machine. In place of levers, just punch a button and get a great short shot moments later.
The primary drawback of the Pixie is the small water reservoir, but for singles or couples, this is one of the best Nespresso machines you can find. Let us know what you think of you invest in the Nespresso Pixie. We always love to hear from our readers, so don’t be shy!
FAQs
1) Does a Nespresso machine need much maintenance?
No! This is one of the primary benefits of choosing a single-serve coffee machine. All you need to do is descale your Nespresso machine at least once a month. Descaling the machine will improve the taste of the coffee in your cup, while at the same time prolonging the machine’s lifespan.
2) How do I prime my Nespresso machine before use?
Most machines in this range heat up within 30 seconds or less. To prime your Nespresso machine, place a cup on the tray as though you were making a cup of coffee, but do not place a capsule in the machine. Switch the machine on then hit either the espresso or lungo button. When you see the water stops flowing, open the machine and pop in a pod with your cup still standing on the tray. Empty the contents of the cup and then replace it so you’ll enjoy your coffee at its finest. When you prime your machine, you’ll warm the group head as well as rinsing it. Priming will also ensure your cup is warm when it’s filled with coffee, a small but important extra.
3) What type of water should I use in my Nespresso machine?
Since even the best gourmet coffee is composed almost entirely of water, it makes sense to use high quality H20. Filtered or bottled water will give you a cleaner taste to your coffee than using water directly from the faucet.
Conclusion
While the Nespresso range may seem initially confusing, it’s not hard to navigate once you have a concept of the difference between the Original Line and the Vertuo Line. The former gives you espresso at the push of a button, while the latter widens your options to include longer coffee as well as shorter shots.
