If you are a fan of espresso but don’t want to spend upwards of $500 for an espresso setup, you may want to consider a Nespresso machine. Nespresso machines offer you a simplified way of making your morning brew at the push of a button.
However, selecting a machine is not always as simple as it seems. OriginalLine vs VertuoLine? Integrated milk frother or separate? Breville vs DeLonghi? We have done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the Best Nespresso Machines so you can find the right machine for you.
Whether you are a new explorer to the world of coffee or a well-established coffee enthusiast, the Nespresso range is a great way to enjoy delicious coffee with minimal effort.
Our Pick: Nespresso Vertuo Plus
If you are pushed for time and are wondering which is the best Nespresso machine then we recommend the Nespresso Vertuo Plus. This is a great all rounder machine capable of producing both espresso and drip style coffee. This versatile machine is great for the coffee enthusiast wanting a quick and easy way to enjoy their morning brew.
Why Buy a Nespresso machine?
At the heart of it Nespresso is all about good quality coffee (a relative term admittedly) that is brewed with minimal effort. Although Nespresso does not compare to a well brewed espresso from an espresso machine, they are consistent, enjoyable, and simple. There is no steep learning curve, no need to buy additional brewing equipment, and a wide range of different flavour profiles to test out.
If you are looking for an upgrade in your coffee journey without going the full hog and getting an espresso machine, then the Nespresso machine is a not bad second choice. In fact it was our first coffee machine and our doorway into the world of coffee. It is a good doorway into the world of better coffee.
Factors To Look For In a Nespresso Machine
So what considerations are worth being aware of when it comes to choosing a Nespresso machine?
OriginalLine vs VertuoLine
When it comes to the different types of machines you will find the first major decision you need to make is whether to opt for an OriginalLine Machine or a newer VertuoLine Machine. We have outlined the differences below:
Other Features
You will find that once you have decided which system to go for, most of the other differences between the machines are more in terms of design and extra features rather than brewing technology. Even between the two main manufacturers Breville and De’Longhi- the machines still use the same core technology to produce their beverages. All the machines have fast heat up times (less than 30 seconds), removable drip trays and water reservoirs.
Best Nespresso Machine 2023
Nespresso Vertuo Plus
Best All-Rounder
Category: Vertuo | Milk Frother: Separate | Water Tank: 54 oz | Capsule container capacity: 10 Mug capsules (large) | Dimensions: 8.7 x 12.7 x 12.8 inches | Warranty: 1 year
As part of their new range, the Nespresso VertuoPlus is our pick for the best all rounder Nespresso machine. Great if you are wanting the option of brewing both espresso and drip style coffee, this machine has 5 different drink size options! With it’s unique barcode scanning technology, the VertuoPlus automatically adjusts the brewing parameters such as temperature, pressure and brewing time, according to the capsule you insert. We also liked that it has a slim design with an adjustable water tank position so you can optimize counter space. With a modest price point this is a great machine to cater to the whole family. You can also buy the machine bundled together with an Aeroccino for milk based drinks.
Nespresso Creatista Plus
Best Nespresso Machine for Lattes and Cappuccinos
Category: Original | Milk Frother: Built in | Water Tank: 50.7 oz. | Capsule container capacity: 12 capsules | Dimensions: 15.4 x 12 x 6.7 inches | Warranty: 2 years
If you love lattes and cappuccinos, this is without a doubt the best Nespresso machine to get.
It is stylish, customizable, and makes a great cup of coffee. But what really sets this machine apart is its fully automated steam wand that allows you to create perfectly textured milk. The machine allows significant control over your milk with 11 temperature settings and 8 texture settings, ensuring you can create a drink to suit you. The Creatista has an LCD screen on the top allowing you to select between 8 different beverage options; espresso, cappuccino, latte, flat white and more. It also has a super quick heat up time taking only 3 seconds! The Creatista is a luxury coffee maker, beautifully designed and perfect for the Nespresso lover who wants to produce café quality coffee.
Nespresso Essenza Mini
Best Compact Nespresso Machine
Category: Original | Milk Frother: Separate | Water Tank: 20.3 oz | Capsule container capacity: 6 Capsules | Dimensions: 3.3 x 12 x 8.03 inches | Warranty: 1 year
If you are short on space then the Nespresso Essenza Mini is for you. This is Nespresso’s most compact machine. While small, this smart little coffee machine packs a punch allowing you to produce high quality espresso. In terms of features it has the usual 2 programmable cup sizes, 19 bar pressure and comes with 14 capsules to try. But other than that it is a no frills machine. The Essenza Mini has the option of being bundled with an Aeroccino milk frother for those who love milky drinks. This is an ideal option for those looking for an affordable entry level machine.
Nespresso Vertuo Next
Best Smart Nespresso Machine
Category: Vertuo | Milk Frother: Separate | Water Tank: 37 oz | Capsule container capacity: 8 capsules | Dimensions: 5.5 x 16.8 x 12.4 inches | Warranty: 1 year
If you love technology and want the ability to brew coffee from your phone then the Nespresso Vertuo Next is your machine. This Nespresso machine has a few unique features to it’s design. To start with, it is made from 54% recycled materials. It also has the ability to brew a wide range of coffees including an 18 oz carafe of pour over style coffee. Finally it’s main feature is that it offers bluetooth connectivity allowing you to turn the machine on and brew coffee from your phone. It is very similar to the Nespresso VertuoPlus in terms of design and functionality with a slightly smaller water tank and used capsule container.
Nespresso Gran Lattissima
Best Nespresso Machine for the Beginner
Category: Original | Milk Frother: Built in | Water Tank: 34 oz | Capsule container capacity: 14 capsules | Dimensions: 7.9 x 14.4 x 10.9 inches | Warranty: 2 year
This machine is perfect for those who are just starting out and want an all in one machine. The Gran Lattissima has a sleek and sophisticated design. But why we love it for the beginner is that it is super easy to use, with nine preset drinks that can be brewed with the touch of a button. The Gran Lattissima has a built-in milk frother that automatically froths your milk for you and adds it to your cup. It also has a dial on the milk compartment that allows you to customize the amount of foam you want. The milk frother is removable allowing you to store it in the fridge between uses. This is a good option if you are wanting a one touch machine, however it does have a hefty price tag, and you will find the milk it produces is not as good as the Creatista.
Nespresso Citiz and Milk
Best Basic Nespresso Machine
Category: Original | Milk Frother: Built in | Water Tank: 33 oz | Capsule container capacity: 9 capsules | Dimensions:8.6 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches | Warranty: 1 year
The Nespresso Citiz is a classic machine with a simple but sleek design, in fact when it was released it won the red dot design award. This is a great basic machine with the usual features you would expect in a Nespresso machine; 19 bar pump pressure, espresso and lungo shot options and a removable drip tray. It has a large water tank and the built-in Aeroccino means you can enjoy your milk based drinks as well as straight espresso. The Citiz has a tried and tested design and has proved to be a well built, durable machine at an affordable price.
Wacaco Nanopresso
The Best Portable Nespresso Machine
Category: Original | Milk Frother: No | Dimensions: 6.14 x 2.8 x 2.44 inches | Warranty: 1 year
If you are looking for a portable espresso machine, the Nanopresso is the way to go. Unlike the other options on this list, the Nanopresso is a hand pumped machine that is capable of producing up to 18 bars of pressure. The Nanopresso is in the shape of a capsule and consists of three main parts: the portafilter, the main body and the water tank. To brew with a Nespresso pod you need to buy an NS adaptor but after that brewing is as simple as inserting your pod, adding hot water and then pumping the piston and a single shot of espresso is slowly released.
The Nanopresso is made of plastic and is very robust, it also comes with a handy travel case so is easy to transport. If you love Nespresso and are looking for a portable espresso maker, this may be your thing.
The Best Nespresso Machine
As you can see if you are in the market for a Nespresso machine, there are a whole heap of options available. Finding the best Nespresso machine for you will ultimately come down to what you are looking for. If you are after a high end model with an excellent milk frother the Nespresso Creatista Plus is the way to go. If you want a basic entry level machine the Nespresso CitiZ + Milk is a great option. If you want to brew espresso and drink style coffee the Nespresso VertuoPlus is for you.
Happy buying!
FAQs
What type of Nespresso capsules are available?
Nespresso currently has about 30 different capsule options available in both lines of machines, however, there is an increasing number of third party capsules coming out with brands like Starbucks and Lavazza teaming up with the brand. See our guide on where to buy Nespresso pods for some tips on buying capsules and finding the right blend for your morning brew. Nespresso has the following types of capsules:
Are Nespresso capsules recyclable?
Yes, Nespresso has taken great care to make sure that their coffee is sourced sustainably and their capsules recyclable. Used Nespresso capsules are able to be taken back to the nearest store or capsule recycling station or they can provide free capsule-recycling bags.
Can you use a Nespresso capsule twice?
Yes, you can use the same capsule twice but we would not recommend it. The coffee will be substantially weaker and taste over-extracted.
Can you use a Keurig K-cup in a Nespresso machine?
No, K-cups are designed differently, so will not fit in your machine. Additionally, K-cups use a different system to extract coffee, which involves a paper filter, to produce drip coffee rather than espresso.
How do you clean a Nespresso Machine?
Day-to-day cleaning of Nespresso machines is very simple, you simply empty your drip tray and used capsule container and clean them with detergent in warm water. It is also recommended to run a bit of water through your machine after each use to remove any coffee remains. In addition, Nespresso recommends that you descale your Nespresso machine every 3-6 months. A lot of the machines have alerts such as an orange blinking light, to notify when this is due. This is very simple to do, you just buy some descaling solution and run it through your machine as per the instruction booklet.
