What is a Nespresso Machine?
After being popular all across the world for several years, the Nespresso machine has finally become full-fledged popular in the US as well. A Nespresso machine is a machine which brews coffee that is similar to espresso. It uses single serving pods and works almost like Keurig for espresso. There is a lot of debate on whether the coffee brewed by Nespresso is similar to espresso. Since the beverage brewed by Nespresso is not espresso, the debate revolves around the wrong question. A traditional espresso and a Nespresso machine both serve their own purposes and are preferred by different types of coffee lovers. Using a Nespresso machine is usually easier than a traditional espresso machine. It is essential that you choose which one you would prefer before investing in any.
With the galore of electronics going on nowadays, it’s difficult to find a good Nespresso machine that won’t break down on the second cup of coffee. In order to know which Nespresso machine is best, you may need to do some thorough research first.
But do we really need a Nespresso machine? Why not just go for coffee made on the stove, in a simple pot, like our parents used to make in the past?
And if we do decide to get such a device, how do we know that we picked the best Nespresso machine and not some cheap junk? Well, this guide will offer you a few inside tips.
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Why Is a Nespresso Machine Perfect for You?
Try making a summary of your mornings and tell us: how much time do you actually have to yourself? A coffee lover that respects himself (or herself) will spend quality time in the morning brewing the perfect cup of coffee. They’ll make sure it has the right amount of beans that have been freshly ground and that the water has the right temperature and quantity. There are many other things you need to be careful of when you make coffee. This might be rather difficult to do after you just woke up and your brain is barely processing your existence, let alone the technique to brew a decent cup. This goes double if you and mornings don’t have a very good relationship and end up oversleeping most of the time; that’s when you don’t even have time to think about coffee.
Oh, if only there were a way for it to make itself; things would be so much easier… oh, wait. There is! Coffee machines were invented for exact reason so that you won't have to bother too much in the morning.
Here’s, however, the catch with traditional coffee machines; eventually, you will have to kill some time to figure out the right coffee ground amount, how much money you need, and some machines don’t even have a cream or milk option. So what do you do then? Thankfully, Nespresso machines were made with that thought in mind: “Ain’t nobody got time for that!” or so the popular saying goes.
A Nespresso device, however, will allow you to make coffee with just a press of a button – a professional kind of coffee – in just a few seconds, without compromising the taste of the brew. Overall, here are some benefits that you may reap from using a Nespresso machine:
- Quickness: All you have to do is put the pod in, press the button, and wait a few seconds until the coffee is made. It’s like making instant coffee – only the taste you get will be professional.
- Repeatability: No matter how many times you make that coffee, it will be the same. Coffee fans are all very keen on the idea of the perfect, consistent coffee, so this will be a huge plus for them.
- Beauty: Ever heard of the “perfect crema”? That’s what Nespresso can apparently do for you. Even the biggest critics can’t deny that there’s nothing more beautiful to behold that the smooth-looking crema formed at the top.
Most of all, it seems like the Nespresso machine is one of the most affordable options to go for. If you compare it with fancy brands such as Illy or Dolce Gusto, you’ll have much less to pay – and you’ll be going for the original, after all.
How does a Nespresso machine work?
Nespresso machines are slightly configured differently; however, the general mechanism is the same. A pod of espresso is put into the front of the machine and water is filled into the tank. Once the machine is switched on, water gets pumped through a line and is often wrapped around a heating element. After the water is heated, it is pushed through the pod with pressure to produce an espresso like coffee.
Nespresso produces a drink which is aromatic, delicious and low in acidity. If you want to enjoy the coffee produced by the machine, it is essential that you keep it clean and maintained. Regular cleaning will not only increase the lifespan of the machine, but it will also allow you to enjoy cleaner and fresher coffee.
What are the differences between Espresso and the coffee Nespresso makes?
There are a lot of people in this world who like to drink beverages brewed by a Nespresso machine, while others prefer espresso. There are various differences between the coffee an espresso and a Nespresso makes. Espresso refers to a concentrated coffee that is produced by forcing water through compressed coffee grounds. The whole procedure is done under pressure. By this definition, a nespresso could be considered as an espresso. However, the pressure has to match that of an espresso. An industry-standard espresso is made with a pressure of 9 bars; whereas, Nespresso claims that its machines can easily create pressure of up to 15 bars.
People who are passionate about coffee, think that the quality of Nespresso does not match that of an espresso. There are a lot of baristas who are of the opinion that the beverages produced by a Nespresso are less like an espresso and more like the ones produced by a moka pot.
The most prominent difference is that a Nespresso is less thicker. However, those who are not coffee enthusiasts do not find a lot of difference between the two. Nespresso brews balanced, tasty and rich coffee and could easily suit your taste. The acidity level of a nespresso is also generally low as compared to other brews.
Things to Pay Attention to When Choosing a Nespresso Machine
Nespresso machines are all very convenient – but depending on the manufacturer, there will be different things to look out for when you want to buy one. Here are some things you may want to keep an eye out for:
1. Coffee Flavor of Choice
Here, you may want to consider this: do you take your coffee with or without milk? In this circumstance, you may want to make sure that the Nespresso machine will make that certain type of coffee that you like.
For example, if you are a fan of cappuccinos, you may want a Nespresso machine that has a milk steamer so that you won’t be required to prepare the milk separately.
2. Coffee Capsule Compatibility
Not all coffee capsules are compatible with every Nespresso machine, so if you have a preference towards a particular type of capsules, make sure that they are compatible.
A lot of capsules are standard size; however, most machines work on barcode brewing, which is why you may want to make sure that your Nespresso machine can “understand” what’s written on that capsule.
3. Design and Size of the Machine
We live in an age where looks are everything, which is why it’s very important to be mindful of the design when picking out the best Nespresso machine. You may go for a red Nespresso machine or a black one – or you may want to get one with a matte or a shiny finish. After all, the last thing you probably want is a device that will scare off the guests from your house. Size also matters. If you live in a place that has limited space, you do not want a machine that will take up half your kitchen. You have to look for a Nespresso machine that is compact in its size but still has the key features that you’ll need.
Features to Consider When Buying a Nespresso Machine
Speaking of features, when you choose a Nespresso machine, you may want to make sure that it can meet all of your requirements. For instance, some devices can make their own cappuccinos or espressos, while others can make more than one coffee at the same time.
One important feature that you need to consider is the cup size. For instance, a compact Nespresso machine may only be able to make the regular “short coffee,” while the higher-end ones may offer you versatility when it comes to the brews.
1. Ease of Use
What help would a Nespresso machine be if you can’t even use it? If it seems too difficult to operate, you may just quit the thought of brewing coffee altogether and just grab a to-go from the first coffee-shop.
The best Nespresso machine shouldn’t have controls that are difficult to navigate. They should offer easy access to the buttons, but also be intuitive enough so that you won’t have to pull out the instruction manual just to make one coffee.
2. Easy Cleanup
Once more, if a Nespresso machine is difficult to maintain, then it might be more trouble than it’s worth it.
When looking for a Nespresso machine, you may want to go for one that is easy to clean and maintain. Using a descaler for cleanup may even extend the life of your Nespresso machine.
3. Cost
This may not be something to call a “primary concern” when buying the best Nespresso machine, but it’s still very important to keep in mind if you are on a tight budget.
Even the Nespresso machines that are not high-end should still be able to provide a decent number of features. This way, you won’t have to sacrifice functionality in favor of affordability.
4. Warranty
A warranty may be a lifesaver in case your machine experiences problems or issues – which have nothing to do with you dropping the device on a concrete floor. The longer the warranty, the safer you will be in case your machine decides you no longer deserve a coffee.
5. Our Recommendations
You know exactly what to look for – but the moment you go into the store, you’re like “now what?”
Thankfully, many people left a lot of Nespresso machine reviews, and we can safely recommend a few models that grabbed the hearts of many coffee addicts.
Best Nespresso Machines of 2021
1. Breville Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine. This machine has capsule recognition for blend-specific brewing of espresso or coffee. It makes coffee ranging from crema to cappuccinos, with settings that allow changes in milk temperature and coffee volume for 5 different cup sizes.
2. Nespresso Lattissima Pro Original Espresso Machine with Milk Frother by De'Longhi. The Lattissima Pro makes a perfect shot of espresso in less than a minute but also 6 pre-programmed drinks from the foamiest cappuccinos to steamed milk lattes. It is a practical machine that reduces waste and has an auto clean function.
3. Nespresso Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi. With Nespresso’s patented Centrifusion technology this machine can make capsule specific coffee or espresso with a delicious layer of crema on top. It has a memory function for 6 drinks including a cappuccino or macchiato.
4. Nespresso Essenza Mini Original Espresso Machine by Breville. Pure White To save counter space and also get espresso brewed in less than 30 seconds, invest in Essenza Mini by Breville. It has a one touch operation, 2 cup sizes, high pressure pump and a fast heat-up system.
5. Nespresso Creatista Plus Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville. If you wish to create your own coffee drinks the Creatista Plus is the machine considering it has 8 texture levels, 11 milk temperature settings, 3 cup sizes and a fully automatic steam wand. Coffee, espresso, long lasting foam, 3 second heat up time? Yes, to all.
DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus Nespresso Coffee System
This machine may be designed to work with Nespresso pods, but it’s still a fairly convenient tool to have around, due to its variety of features. Since it has an automatic one-touch system, your coffee of choice will be ready in the least amount of time possible. You will only need a few minutes.
The coffee system comes with a removable 12-oz milk carafe that you can store in the fridge for later use. It heats up quickly, and you can literally use it in a matter of seconds. The Nespresso machine can accommodate up to ten pods, which means that you won’t have to bother with refilling every time you make coffee. Furthermore, the used pods are ejected automatically into a separate tank, making the cleanup very easy.
OUR RATING
The machine is also quick and easy to operate, and it’s pretty intuitive as well. It has buttons that can produce all types of beverages going from espresso to long coffee, hot milk, and latte macchiato. You may choose whichever combo you want from the two coffee selections and the three milk ones. This Nespresso system also features an auto-off timer, which means that if you forget to turn it off, no energy will be lost. You’ll be saving money and protecting the environment all at the same time. Overall, according to a lot of people, this is the best Nespresso machine to have around. It’s quick, efficient, easy to clean, and it produces coffee that will reach all of your senses.
Pros
- It only takes 40 seconds to heat up
- The milk and coffee amount are adjustable, making the device perfect for customizing your coffee
- You may adjust the power-off setting from 30 minutes to 8 hours
Cons
- You can only put in a limited amount of coffee and milk
- The milk in milk-based beverages can only be warm, not hot
DeLonghi Nespresso Vertuo Evoluo
If you are familiar with the Nespresso machine from the original VertuoLine, then you should know that this one made by DeLonghi is pretty similar – with just a few extra kicks.
Compared to the original model that could only hold up to 40-oz in its water tank, this can hold up to 54. Plus, while the former could hold only 13 pods, the Evoluo can hold up to 17. This means that you’ll have to bother less with refilling the Nespresso machine.
There were a lot of complaints from many people that the original model could not make the coffee hot enough. The Evoluo, on the other hand, can brew at high temperatures so that you can enjoy a scalding hot cup of coffee (if you so wish).
OUR RATING
The design is also pretty sleek. While it can make a decent amount of coffee, it’s still compact enough to be used in a small kitchen. Plus, since it no longer has the rounded head of the original VertuoLine, it looks even classier on a coffee table.
This Nespresso VertuoLine coffee and espresso machine is perfect even if you are a fan of long or short coffee. It features two cup sizes, so no matter if you want a tasty 7.7 fl. oz. Cappuccino or a 1.35 fl. oz. Espresso, you may interchange the cups.
This is also considered the best Nespresso machine simply because it’s very easy to use. All you’ll have to do is insert the capsule, close the lever, and the patented extraction system will do the rest.
Pros
- The coffee produced is hot and no longer just warm, like the original line
- It has a large water tank that allows for more coffee-brewing sessions
- It can hold more coffee pods than the average Nespresso machine
Cons
- The device only works using a barcode system, so you can't customize the drink
Nespresso Pixie D60 Espresso Machine
If you are an apartment-dweller, then the Pixie device is the best Nespresso machine for espresso, as well as for other fancy drinks. It has a smaller frame than your average Nespresso machine, but it has all the features that you need in order to make a great cup of coffee.
This device has programmable buttons, which means that you may customize the coffee’s volume. No matter if you want a long coffee or an espresso, the choice is yours. You have a total of 19 pressure bars, giving you freedom of choice over the strength of your coffee. It’s very easy to forget to do a refill of the tank, which is why this machine will start flashing the red backlights when the tank has been emptied of water.
OUR RATING
Furthermore, it can store up to 10 used coffee pods in the capsule container, which is great if you don’t always have the time to empty it until your next coffee.
This Nespresso espresso machine is also an energy saver, as it shuts down by itself after nine minutes. If you happen to leave it on after you go out of the house, you won’t have to worry that it will burn through or start consuming excessive energy.
This device is also fairly stylish and easy to fit into every house design. Plus, you can choose from more than one color; so, no matter if you want a flashy red or a mysterious black, you’re all set.
Pros
- Measuring only 4.3 inches wide, the Pixie is the best Nespresso machine for small places
- The water is preheated in only 30 seconds
- The espresso and lungo have a pre-set, so you don't have to bother with the settings every time
Cons
- The foldable tray doesn't have a automatic fold-up option
Breville Nespresso Inissia Titan
Many people claim that this is the best Nespresso Inissia espresso machine, and they have a good reason for that.
This compact device is perfect for those who want to have a delicious cup of coffee, but don’t have the time and space for fancy brewing methods.
The water will heat up in less than a minute. You will no longer have to wait so much just to prepare a lungo or a simple espresso.
OUR RATING
The Inissia has been equipped with a high-pressure pump that offers you full control over the strength of the coffee. You will be able to make a barista-quality cup every time, but you can also choose the preset option if you don’t have the time.
The water tank is also very large – spacious enough to hold water for 9 cups of coffee. They will be done in a matter of seconds, so your guests will not have to wait too long on you to come back with the beverages.
Since the drip tray can be folded, the Inissia can also accommodate tall cups. This is a very convenient option if you like long coffee instead of the regular espresso.
Pros
- It's the best Nespresso machine when it comes to affordability
- Science it has only two programmable buttons, it is very easy to operate
- The water only takes 25 seconds to preheat
- The device automatically shuts off after 25 seconds
- The used capsule container can easily store up to 9 pods
Cons
- Some customers complained that the design doesn't let the pod stay in the right position, which means that some of them might end up crushed
KitchenAid Nespresso Machine
This KitchenAid Nespresso machine is perfect for those of you who want to bring the funk into the coffee making. Unlike many other manufacturers who have limited color options when it comes to their coffee makers, this one has plenty for you to choose from. No matter if you want an Empire Red, an Onyx Black, or a Sugar Pearl, you have plenty of color choices. With a die-cast, all-metal construction, this Nespresso machine was made to withstand the abuse of clumsy morning people. Furthermore, due to its construction, you won’t have to worry that it will fall from a simple push; it will stay exactly where you place it.
OUR RATING
With a 1.3L removable water tank, this is the best Nespresso machine if you want to make more coffees one after another. You also have a brew strength selector, so no matter if you want a strong espresso or a milder long coffee, you may adjust the device for your own preferences. Like every Nespresso machine, this one also has a very simple capsule loading system. You just introduce the capsule, flip the switch and your coffee will be finished shortly. While the milk frother is not included in the package, you may still buy it separately. Purchased as it is, this is a very good Nespresso machine for the regular “black coffee.”
Pros
- It has a beautiful design that works with every kitchen décor
- You have a variety of colors to choose from
- The coffee temperature is much hotter than the standard line Nespresso machine
- It features a very sturdy construction that makes the device durable
Cons
- It's heavy, so it's rather difficult to move it around
- it's a bit large, so it occupies a lot of countertop space
- Doesn't come directly with a milk forther
Final Thoughts
The best Nespresso machine can be your everyday savior since it helps you save a lot of time in the morning. Not all of us wake up when we should, and not all of us have the skill of brewing the perfect coffee ourselves, which is why we need something to do it for us. Some of these Nespresso machines are pre-set; others give you the freedom to “play” with the strength. Some are great mostly for espressos while others make excellent lattes. It’s up to you to choose which one is for you. For instance, if you want the best Nespresso machine for lattes, then the DeLonghi Silver Lattissima may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you only want espressos, the Pixie maker should do the trick just fine. In the end, it all depends on your preferences. A true fan will know exactly what they want from the best Nespresso machine, even without too much help.