I was a total old-timer when it came to brewing coffee myself: drip coffee or bust, folks! And nope, I’m not talking about some fancy coffee and espresso maker here. I mean the real DIY deal. Picture this: the filter holder is perched on the coffee pot, with a filter in place, of course. In goes a heap of coarsely ground coffee – one scoop per cup, the perfect amount. Then the grand finale: slowly, oh-so-slowly, pouring boiling water over it and reveling in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
By Frank
Mornings were an uphill battle to wake up, so in went an extra scoop to produce espresso that would really kickstart my engine. Evenings were for chilling, which meant a bit less coffee, spruced up with a playful sprinkle of cinnamon or a hint of vanilla for that little extra something. You could’ve called me an undercover barista, like the James Bond of the coffee world. Except where James Bond was confident in his skills, I quickly realized that my routine precision was not enough to make the strength and taste of my coffee consistent.
Enter the superhero: my Nespresso machine, a real espresso machine that revolutionized my coffee and espresso making at home. What a game changer! Now, not only is my coffee strength steady (unless I get adventurous), but I’m also whipping up espressos, latte macchiatos, and cappuccinos like nobody’s business, all with Nespresso coffee pods. All that coffee making magic is only a button push away, but I feel like a true coffee maestro now, more than ever. Move over, drip coffee – I’m Team Nespresso all the way!
Whether you are a casual coffee drinker or consider yourself a bit of an aficionado, choosing the right machine can seem like a daunting task. There is a wide range of Nespresso models out there that should be able to satisfy your inner barista. Some even have integrated milk frothers, offering the luxury of a variety of coffee drinks in the comfort of your own kitchen. And by testing espresso machines so you don’t have to, my goal is to help you find the best Nespresso machine for you.
The Best Nespresso Machine of Them All
Breville Creatista Plus – BNE800BSSUSC
Before we go any further into this espresso maker review, I have to warn you: the Breville Creatista Plus is not a budget espresso machine. However, all of the great features that it boasts justify the higher price tag. Breville is especially renowned for their milk frothers and steam wand technology which, for the first time, has now also been incorporated into an at-home espresso machine.
With this Nespresso maker, you’re in complete control – enjoy exploring your inner barista with 11 hot milk temperatures and 8 texture levels. This is great for your inner latte art lover, especially when combined with the chic stainless steel milk container! Alternatively, you can let the Creatista Plus take the reins. Not in the mood to get creative with your espresso drinks? Just spin the dial to your desired coffee type and let it guide you through the brewing process. It’s that easy.
You’re not short on your other options either, with three cup sizes: 0.8, 1.3, and 3.6 ounces. It also boasts a spacious 50.7-ounce water tank, which means less time refilling and more time enjoying your luxurious coffee drinks. Customizable water hardness settings, a descale feature, and an auto-cleaning steam wand add to the appeal. Plus, this machine is quick on its feet – ready to brew espresso shots in a swift three seconds. This powerhouse espresso maker is a must-have for anyone who wants café-quality espresso in the comfort of their own kitchen.
- Versatile brewing options for all types of coffee drinks.
- Ready to brew espresso in 3 seconds.
- Built-in milk frother and 11 hot milk temperatures.
- Generous 50.7-ounce water tank.
- Ability to personalize several pre-programmed recipes.
- Self-cleaning steam wand and descaling function.
- Pricier than many other Nespresso models.
The Best Buy
Nespresso Inissia Black
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly coffee and espresso maker that doesn’t sacrifice performance, then the Nespresso Inissia is the perfect machine for you. Sleek, compact and lightweight, the Inissia is great for those coffee drinkers who don’t have enough counter real estate for a bulky traditional espresso machine.
While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of its higher-priced competitors, the Inissia delivers where it counts: brewing a great cup of coffee. You can enjoy a nice, rich espresso, of course, but it doesn’t stop there. This espresso maker can put out cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, long coffee, lungo, hot milk and hot water like it’s nothing. To top it all off, it only needs 25 seconds to go from cold to ready to brew espresso, so say goodbye to agonizingly waiting for your morning coffee.
One of the more affordable Nespresso machines, the Inissia boasts a 24 ounce water tank, meaning you’re spending less time refilling and more time brewing. Designed to use disposable pods, it also has a 10 used capsule container capacity that takes the pressure off of you to clean your machine daily. All of the rich coffee taste with none of the hassle!
- Budget-friendly Nespresso maker.
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for small spaces.
- Ready to brew in 25 seconds.
- Accommodates up to 10 used capsules.
- Lack of advanced features like milk frothing.
The Best Cheap Nespresso Machine
ChefWave Espresso Machine
The ChefWave Espresso Machine is a classic blend of style and function. With an attractive, vibrant design and the ability to use Nespresso capsules, the best of both words can live right on your countertop. This coffee and espresso maker isn’t just pretty, either. It delivers quality Nespresso drinks without breaking the bank.
Thanks to its compact design, the ChefWave is a perfect option for any coffee lover who needs a machine that takes up little counter space or that can be easily transported. The small size hides some impressive features. The two programmable brew sizes (1.3 and 3.75 oz) cater to a variety of coffee preferences, whether you like espresso straight or as part of a larger coffee creation.
The best part is, the ChefWave comes with some awesome bonuses, including two 2.7 ounce espresso cups and a rack to store your Nespresso capsules. It’s almost hard to believe how great the value is for this machine.
- Affordable and Nespresso compatible.
- Heats up in 30 seconds.
- Espresso and lungo brewing options.
- Capsule holder and cups included.
- This machine does not allow you to froth milk.
The Best Nespresso Machine with a Milk Frother
Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Espresso & Coffee Maker Bundle
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe, one of many Vertuo machines, is a great option for those craving versatility in their coffee experience. While it is not the most budget-friendly option on this list, it more than makes up for it in the features it offers, at least for the enthusiasts out there.
A big thing that sets this machine apart is its ability to brew both traditional coffee and espresso shots. This versatility, along with its generous offering of five brew sizes, allows you to really live your best coffee-loving life.
The Vertuo features a 60-ounce tank, which means more drinking and less refilling. It utilizes Nespresso’s Centrifusion and barcode recognition technology to automatically adjust brew settings based on the capsule and comes with an Aeroccino milk frother, making the perfect cup of coffee more attainable than ever.
- Five brewing options, including espresso and larger coffee drinks.
- Heats in 20 seconds.
- Generous 60-ounce water tank.
- Nespresso Centrifusion technology.
- Aeroccino milk frother for the perfect café latte.
- More expensive than some of the other best Nespresso machines.
The Best Nespresso Machine with a Separate Milk Frother
Nespresso Citiz & Milk Coffee Maker and Espresso Machine
Coffee and espresso aficionados who are fans of a creamy, milk-based coffee will love this machine. Not only is it sleek and stylish, but it brings the café experience of delicious espresso right into the comfort of your kitchen.
The Citiz is not a cheap machine, but its features help highlight why that is. De’Longhi has fit a 34-ounce water tank into a compact package, complete with a folding drip tray that will accommodate taller glasses as needed. This kind of flexibility is hard to resist, and with a 25 second heating time, your morning pick-me-up or iced coffee is never far out of reach.
Much like the previous machine, one of the highlights of the Citiz is the inclusion of an Aeroccino milk frother. This addition makes for smooth, creamy coffee creations that were previously only available in cafés.
- Offers espresso and longo cup sizes.
- Integrated Aeroccino milk frother.
- Heats up in 25 seconds.
- Energy-saving auto-off function.
- More expensive than other Nespresso machines.
The Best Nespresso Machine for a Small Kitchen
Nespresso Essenza Mini Black
The Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville is a compact, cost-effective Nespresso machine that won’t compromise flavor in its quest for simplicity. This is a great entry into the world of Nespresso makers, coming with a welcome set of capsules with unique aromatic profiles so that you can find your perfect brew.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini impresses as Breville’s most compact machine, bringing the café to the counter in even the smallest of spaces. The small size does not mean small performance, though. The 20.3-ounce water tank is ready to brew in 25 seconds, which is a relief for those who can’t be bothered until they’ve had their coffee.
While it lacks some of the advanced features seen in higher-end Nespresso makers and real espresso machines, it makes up for this in portability, price, and performance. This small machine is a total powerhouse in a neat, sleek package.
- Affordable Nespresso machine.
- Ultra-compact and lightweight.
- Heats in 25 seconds.
- Offers espresso and lungo cup sizes.
- Smaller water tank compared to larger models.
- Does not include a milk frother.
The Best Nespresso Coffee Machine for Vertuo Capsules
Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Bundle by Breville
Not everybody is interested in the same old traditional espresso machines that everyone else has. Thankfully, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop adds an extra pop of color and fun into your coffee brewing experience. This is definitely one of the most personality-filled Vertuo machines on the market.
Don’t let its appearance fool you, this is one of the best espresso machines for a reason. Vibrancy and versatility go hand-in-hand in this machine, which brews espresso and traditional coffee in five different sizes. You can brew a single or double shot of espresso for enjoyment alone or as part of a bigger creation.
You don’t just get a Nespresso machine that is built to stand out, either. You also get an Aeroccino milk frother, making it a breeze to whip up the perfect cafe latte, complete with some fun latte art. Machines like this prove that you don’t need an integrated milk frother to make great coffee.
- Brews traditional coffee and espresso.
- Five brewing sizes.
- Aeroccino3 milk frother inluded.
- Vibrant and chic design.
- Accepts Nespresso Vertuo pods.
- 25-ounce tank is not very large.
- Higher price than other basic models.
The Best for Cappuccinos
DeLonghi Nespresso Lattissima Pro
The De’Longhi Nespresso Latissima Pro is not your average coffee and espresso machine. De’Longhi is one of the leading names in Italian espresso machines, and they have branched out from their original machines into creating Nespresso compatible machines that can accept all of your favorite Nespresso capsules. While it sits at the higher end of the price scale, this Nespresso machine is inspired by the professional equipment that you would find in your favorite café.
The Latissima Pro comes equipped with pre-programmed drink options like espresso, lungo, ristretto, one-touch capuccino, and latte macchiato, to simplify your coffee brewing. There is even a folding drip tray to accommodate your latte macchiato glass, allowing you to brew delicious espresso straight into your desired cup. All you have to do is select your option and enjoy the sweet smells of incoming coffee.
The inclusion of a 16-ounce milk carafe allows you to make milk-based drinks with one touch. All of these features, combined with the luxurious anodized aluminum exterior and 43-ounce water tank, make for a Nespresso machine that you will love for years to come.
- One-touch milk drinks.
- Pre-programmed drink options cater to different preferences.
- 44-ounce water tank and 16-ounce carafe.
- Anodized aluminum exterior for a sleek, professional appearance.
- Higher price point makes this a significant investment.
The Best Nespresso Machine with a Large Water Tank
Nespresso Vertuo Graphite
The Nespresso Vertuo is a fantastic option if you are looking for versatility and convenience on a budget. A sleek and user-friendly design makes it a valuable addition to any home barista’s kitchen.
The Nespresso Vertuo utilizes the same Nespresso Centrifusion technology that was mentioned before, reading the barcode on each capsule for a perfect brew every time. Combined with five cup sizes – espresso (1.35 oz), double espresso (2.7 oz), gran lungo (5 oz), coffee (7.7 oz), and alto (14 oz) – this feature injects some excitement into your coffee brewing.
Other noteworthy features are the large 54-ounce water tank, the short 15-20 second heating time, and the aesthetically pleasing graphite grey exterior design. Enjoy watching your sleek machine brew cup after cup in no time at all. This machine is a solid introduction to Vertuo machines.
- Versatile cup sizes.
- Large 54-ounce water tank.
- Heats in 15-20 seconds.
- Nespresso Centrifusion technology.
- Does not include a milk frother.
The Nespresso Machine with the Best Design
Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee Maker
Nespresso Vertuo has come out on top multiple times when it comes to coffee maker and espresso machine design, so the Vertuo Next should come as no surprise with its sleek exterior and impressive internals.
This machine comes with a 37-ounce tank and can brew anything from a single shot of espresso to a carafe of coffee, giving you some of the most size versatility of any machine on this list. This feature goes hand-in-hand with the Nespresso Centrifusion technology and automatic barcode recognition.
Notably, the Vertuo Next is the most eco-conscious option on this list, made with 54% recycled plastic and packaged in 100% recyclable materials. It also features Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity for easy software updates. This machine is bringing the future of coffee and espresso makers into the present.
- Impressive versatility in brew sizes.
- Heats in 20-25 seconds.
- Eco-friendly design and recyclable packaging.
- Wireless connectivity for software updates.
- Nespresso Centrifusion technology.
- Does not include a milk frother.
Top 10 Nespresso Machines of 2024: A Comparative Table
Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? To simplify things and provide a clearer picture, we’ve put together a table of the top 10 best Nespresso machines for you.
What to Look For When Buying a Nespresso Machine
Versatility
Nespresso makers come in a variety of models, each offering a range of features and capabilities. Consider what types of coffee drinks you enjoy most often. Do you have a preference for Americanos? Mochas? Iced lattes? Or maybe you are a big fan of a good old traditional shot of espresso. Machines with more versatility can prepare a simple espresso or a luxurious latte macchiato with the press of a button. Also think about cup sizes, as some Nespresso models only brew one standard size and some may brew five or more, with an adjustable or removable drip tray to accommodate those larger cups. If you enjoy letting your mood guide your coffee experience, then a more versatile option may be for you.
Speed
Time is our most valuable, irreplaceable commodity, and this means that we are always looking for ways to optimize and spend it better. Even our coffee breaks can become rushed in the push to not waste time. Some Nespresso models cater to this need better than others, offering shorter heating times. The Creatista Plus is a prime example of this – ready to brew in just 3 seconds, which is almost 98% faster than a standard coffee maker. For those who often find themselves hurrying out the door, coffee in hand, a quick-brewing machine could feel like a life-saver. Not only is coffee ready faster, but with heating times like that, you can spend a little longer relaxing in bed before the day begins.
Water Tank Capacity
Much like every coffee drinker, every Nespresso maker is unique. Different water tank capacities are designed to suit different needs, be it a single shot of espresso every morning or playing the barista role for a host of friends. If you are consistently brewing for a crowd, whether at work or at home, then it may be best to opt for a model with a larger water tank. Some can hold over a quart, which makes about 30 single shots of espresso before a refill is needed. While some may want this capacity at home as well, there are smaller models that will take up less real estate on your counter.
Frother
Avid fans of cappuccinos, lattes, and mochas know how important a good milk frother is. It can be the secret weapon to elevate your coffee from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether built-in or separate, milk frothers allow you to make barista-quality drinks at home. A separate frother allows you to have more control over your milk texture and temperature, which can give you even more creative freedom.
Ease of Cleaning
Brewing coffee and espresso ought to be a joyful ritual, not a daunting task. That’s precisely why the simplicity and convenience offered by pod coffee and espresso machines like Nespresso hold such appeal. Several models come equipped with self-cleaning and descaling features or have detachable parts (like the drip tray) that make maintenance a breeze. If your espresso machine is designed to be easy-to-clean, it not only saves you precious time and energy in the long run, but it also means not worrying about the cleanup when considering whether to indulge in a cup of coffee at any time of day.
Aesthetics and Design
Selecting a Nespresso machine is about much more than just functionality; aesthetics and design greatly influence the decision. The machine stands as a style statement within your space, so its design, whether sleek, modern, or compact, should harmonize with your interior. Design also impacts usability, with different models offering touch screen or button-based controls to suit various preferences. In the end, the optimal choice blends pleasing aesthetics, user-friendly controls, and the essential features to deliver your perfect cup of coffee.
Sustainability
If you’re eco-conscious, which more and more consumers are becoming, consider a machine that uses a significant percentage of recycled materials. Beyond their stylish designs and impressive features, some Nespresso machines are environmentally friendly too. Most machines have an auto-off feature that will ensure your machine gets shut off when not in use, every time, contributing to energy conservation. Even the Nespresso capsules themselves are made with recyclable aluminum, giving the coffee making process an environmentally conscious face-lift. It is important to remember that pod coffee always has associated waste, even despite sustainability efforts.
Budget and Value
Price can (and should) be a guiding factor in choosing which Nespresso machine is a perfect fit for you. While it is easy to look at the machine price and base everything on that, there is more to the consideration process than meets the eye. The machine has the highest price tag out of the gate, but you will still need to consider other costs as well. Think capsules and maintenance, for example – a pricey machine may use capsules more efficiently or need less maintenance overall, cutting costs in the long run. Figuring out what is worth it to you is a balancing act, and it should consider both upfront and ongoing costs, so that your decision can be as educated and beneficial as possible.
Conclusion: The Best Nespresso Machine For You
Finding the best Nespresso machine for you depends on a variety of factors. This isn’t just about choosing a coffee maker, it’s about choosing a companion to assist you in your everyday coffee needs. For those seeking the ultimate at-home barista experience, the Breville Creatista Plus stands out with its advanced milk frothing capabilities and remarkably quick heating time, making it a worthy contender for the coffee connoisseur. If your budget is on the tight end, but you don’t want to sacrifice quality coffee and espresso, the Nespresso Inissia provides fantastic value for the features you get, proving that good coffee doesn’t always have to put a sizable dent in your wallet. The Vertuo Next by Breville is a great option if you are looking for a versatile, eco-friendly option that will add a pop of color to your kitchen, combining form, function, and sustainability. This could go on and on, but the overall point is this: only you can fully assess your coffee needs, expectations, and budget in order to decide which of the best Nespresso machines will be that perfect fit for you. But once you do, you’ll be ready to enjoy the newest leg of your coffee journey with style and ease. It’s about time that you invest in starting your day right, one perfectly brewed cup at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditional espresso combines finely ground coffee, high pressure, and near-boiling water to achieve a bold, rich, and smooth taste. Nespresso simplifies the process. With their pre-made capsules, you get consistent flavor and strength without the extra effort. So, the biggest differences between traditional espresso and Nespresso are quality, taste, and ease of brewing.
There is no singular “best” Nespresso type. If you enjoy a rich, classic espresso, then the OriginalLine may have the best range of products for you. If you value variety, though, the VertuoLine may be the best option for you. At the end of the day, the best Nespresso will depend on personal taste, kitchen space, design, budget, and more.
Nespresso’s OriginalLine is designed to make traditional espresso and lungo shots, and is the more basic type of machine. The VertuoLine, on the other hand, can make regular and double espresso shots, gran lungo, coffee, and alto, all using a unique barcode scanning system that adjusts the brewing process as needed. It also uses Nespresso Centrifusion technology to extract coffee, whereas the OriginalLine uses pressure for the extraction process. The capsules themselves differ as well, meaning you cannot use OriginalLine capsules in VertuoLine machines and vice versa.
Different Nespresso machines will absolutely make a difference in your coffee brewing experience. Each machine offers its own combination of features, including (but not limited to) brew size, design, speed, and milk temperature and frothing capabilities. Because of this, one customer’s perfect machine may be another customer’s Nespresso nightmare. Every machine is unique, and it’s up to you to decide which one fills your needs best.
Nespresso is not discontinuing the entire OriginalLine, but they did discontinue four specific coffee capsules from their Single Origin range (Indriya from India, Rosabaya de Colombia, Dulsão do Brazil, and Bukeela ka Ethiopia). Following this, Nespresso stated that they were planning to launch a new range of coffee capsules that would embrace a similar coffee experience. Always check Nespresso’s website for the most up-to-date information. They may introduce new capsules to their range, or decide that others will be discontinued.
Nespresso understands the importance of convenience when it comes to their machines, and they’ve taken great care to make cleaning and maintenance a breeze. They’ve designed their machines with user-friendly features in mind, such as easily removable parts like drip trays and capsule containers. This thoughtful design enables effortless individual cleaning, simplifying the entire process for you. Moreover, when it comes to the internal cleaning of the machine, most Nespresso machines are equipped with a descaling feature. With just a press of a button, this function takes care of the challenging task of internal cleaning. By regularly performing these cleaning and maintenance routines, you can ensure that your Nespresso machine remains in great shape, prolonging its lifespan.
The lifespan of your Nespresso machine depends heavily on several key factors. Frequency of use is a large factor, as an office machine that experiences heavy daily usage will naturally wear out faster compared to a personal machine used only a couple of times per day. Proper maintenance routines and appropriate storage can guarantee 5-10 years of reliable performance from your machine. The type of water you use also matters, as hard water can negatively affect the machine’s lifespan. If hard water is common in your area, it’s advisable to choose a Nespresso machine specifically designed to handle hard water. All of these things can extend your machine’s performance and efficiency.
Third-party capsules offer greater variety and affordability than Nespresso branded capsules. While you can generally use these capsules in your Nespresso machine (especially OriginalLine machines), remember that you may be sacrificing the flavor and quality that are guaranteed in Nespresso branded capsules. This should factor into your decision to use third-party capsules in your Nespresso machine.
Unlike a typical coffee and espresso machine, Nespresso machines are designed to only be used with Nespresso-compatible capsules. This being said, it is not recommended to use your own coffee grounds in your Nespresso machine. Some third-party retailers offer refillable capsules for Nespresso machines, but use them at your own risk. Because they are not verified by Nespresso, use of these capsules could gum up or damage your machine.
Your Nespresso machine should be more than capable of brewing double espresso, with a variety of options to achieve this. First, you can use the “double shot” or “lungo” option, which brews a larger volume of coffee. Second, you can use two capsules in succession to brew a concentrated and flavorful double espresso. Some models may offer features specifically to accommodate a double shot, like a removable or adjustable drip tray for you to brew into a larger glass.
Nespresso wears its green heart on its sleeve. They’re not just about brewing up your morning cup of joe, but also keen on giving back to the planet. They champion a capsule recycling program and root for sustainable coffee sourcing. Some of their machines, like the Vertuo Next, even boast recycled plastics. But be aware, despite recycling strides, pod coffee does generate waste. Nespresso’s eco-friendly ambition doesn’t end at the coffee cup though, they’re also making efforts to reduce their carbon footprints and stand up for the hardworking coffee farmers that they partner with.
Nespresso is not inherently better than Keurig, and they fill two different niches in the coffee world. Nespresso machines are designed to brew under high pressure, similar to the original machines that baristas use to brew espresso. This means that Nespresso is better when it comes to producing rich, complex espresso. However, Keurig is better known for its wide variety, allowing you to brew coffee, tea, and even hot chocolate.
As mentioned above, neither of these contenders has the other beat. They both have their place in the coffee world. Nespresso is best for espresso lovers, and Keurig is best for those who like a wide variety of options, not being limited to just coffee.
Nespresso machines are designed to make brewing espresso easy and convenient. They operate at a lower pressure than the espresso machine that the barista uses at your local cafe. While they typically have to grind the beans and be very hands-on in the brewing process, the Nespresso machine only requires you to insert a capsule of already-ground coffee and press the button to brew – unless you are frothing milk, it’s literally that simple. Besides ease of use, Nespresso machines are also usually less expensive and take up less counter space than their traditional cousins.
Nespresso aims to provide the best coffee quality that they can in a convenient format. The capsules ensure that the perfect amount of coffee is brewed every time, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. Unfortunately, that usually means that the capsules are more expensive than the bulk ground coffee you may be used to. The flavor, consistency, and convenience make them well worth the investment for those Nespresso lovers out there, but it is up to you to decide how worthwhile the investment is to you.
Nespresso machines are designed to brew quality espresso without the hassle of operating an espresso machine. They offer state-of-the-art brewing technology, quality eco-friendly materials, and an assortment of features to appeal to all espresso lovers. For many, all of this justifies the high price tag on machines and the expense for capsules. For others, it is justified by the sustainability initiatives that Nespresso funds. Overall, when you pay for Nespresso, you are paying for quality, sustainability, and convenience, along with the products themselves.