A big drawback to working from home is the lack of access to a high-quality coffee like espresso, lattes, and other coffee drinks since there’s no more stopping at the cafe on the way to work, or using a coffee run as an excuse for an afternoon escape. The good news is that home coffee makers are closing the gap on great coffee, thanks in no small part to Nespresso. Nespresso provides a great cup of coffee or espresso, in no small part due to its aluminum pod concept and high standards in manufacturing.
These days, Nespresso is so popular that a variety of machines have been created, and it can be tricky for some to figure out which machine is the best fit. With all of that in mind, let’s dive into the world of Nespresso and figure out how to choose the best Nespresso machine for your home.
What to know before buying Nespresso?
Before you purchase a machine, think about what you’ll be using it for daily. Are you more of an espresso shot drinker? Do you prefer milk-infused coffees like lattes and cappuccino? These will factor into your decision, as various models have different strengths and capabilities.
Here is a quick checklist to consider:
- Will you be making coffee, espresso, or both?
- How much capacity do you need?
- Do you want a machine that can steam or froth milk?
- What intensity or quality of coffee are you after?
- How big of a cup do you generally drink?
Before you decide on a machine, you also need to consider which line of machines you want.
What is the difference between the different Nespresso machines?
Vertuo vs Original.
The Nespresso Original line has three cup sizes: Classic (40 ml), Ristretto (25 ml), and Lungo (110 ml). These sizes are aimed at traditional espresso drinkers and those who prefer a concentrated coffee drink.
Nespresso is a European creation, and as with many things, the appetite for larger things in North America led to the creation of a new line that was capable of making a larger cup of coffee. In 2014, Nespresso created their Nespresso Vertuo specifically for North American consumers.
The Vertuo is capable of producing Espresso(40ml), Double Espresso(80ml), Grand Lungo(150ml), Mug(230ml) , and Alto (414ml) sizes.
In addition to larger sizes, the Vertuo line uses “centrifusion,” spinning the capsule in the machine at 7,000 RPM to blend the coffee and water. There is also a barcode on each capsule that the machine can read to provide it with the perfect parameters for making that specific style of coffee.
How do I choose Nespresso capsules?
The first step in choosing Nespresso capsules is to ensure you get the suitable capsule for your line of machines. The Vertuo line has its own style of capsules, so it’s essential to make sure you purchase the right ones.
Vertuo capsules.
Next, you need to decide whether you’re after espresso, cappuccino, macchiato, or flat white. Maybe you’re after just straight-up coffee or espresso with water (americano). Nespresso also has a scale for intensity, with capsules between 1-5 being low intensity, 6-8 being medium, and 9-13 for darker, more robust roasts. The lower numbers are best for espressos or americanos, the medium can be served up any style, and the higher intensity shines either all by itself or in a latte or cappuccino.
You can purchase capsules either at a Nespresso store or online. All of the capsules are recyclable, and Nespresso will take care of everything after giving them the used capsules.
What are the best Nespresso machines?
So, with all that in mind, here are a few picks for different categories.
Best Overall: Nespresso Inissia
Inissia.
The Inissia is our choice for the Best Overall Nespresso machine for several reasons. It’s a solid, dependable machine, the workhorse of the Nespresso line. The Inissia is one of the older models in the line, and people swear by it for quality. It has an engaging look, comes in a variety of colors, and is perfect for serving espresso.
The Nespresso Inissa is available on Amazon, Best Buy, and Canadian Tire.
Best Vertuo machine: Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Vertuo Plus has an original look with the water reservoir housed outside the machine and a minimalist design. It’s built for a busy kitchen, has a smaller profile, and is simple to use.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is available on Amazon and Walmart.
Best for Espresso: Nespresso CitiZ
The CitiZ has one of the biggest reservoirs for a Nespresso machine, and it just looks better than most. If you’re an espresso fan, this is the model for you. Simple, small, easy to use.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is available on Amazon and Walmart.
Best Quiet Operation: Nespresso Essenza Mini
Esssenza Mini.
Another small machine that will fit in any kitchen or space, the Essenza Mini is a solid performer, offering quiet operation, and it even comes in two styles to suit your taste.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is available on Amazon and Walmart.
Best High-End Machine: Nespresso Lattissima One
Lattissima One.
Comparing the Lattissima One with a smaller machine like the Pixie shows that Nespresso machines have a huge range of sizes and options. The Lattissima One is a beautiful model equipped with a steam wand.
The Nespresso Lattissima One is available on Amazon and Best Buy.
Best Big-Batch Brewer: Nespresso Vertuo Next
Vertuo.
If you drink coffee and espresso by the gallon, the Vertuo Next is your best bet. It has a large water reservoir and can make up to an 18 oz carafe. Nespresso sells a tailor-made carafe for the Next, but you can also use any vessel on hand. The look of this machine is minimalist, opting for size over style.
The Nespresso Lattissima One is available on Amazon and Best Buy.
Best Portable: Nespresso Pixie
Pixie.
The Pixie is fantastic to take with you; it fits anywhere. It has a more functional, industrial-style look, and while it doesn’t have a huge reservoir or capacity if you’re traveling, it’s the machine to have.
The Nespresso Pixie is available on Amazon and Walmart.
A Nespresso machine is a no-brainer if you’re a big fan of espresso and coffee. It provides simplicity, ease of use, and less mess and cleanup. You can mix and match capsules to provide yourself with a variety of delicious drinks. Whichever model you choose, you can be assured that you’ve made coffee much easier in the home.
Also Read:
- How to adjust drink sizes on Nespresso Vertuo Next by De’Longhi
- How to Choose: Nespresso Original versus Nespresso Vertuo
- Review: Breville Nespresso Pixie
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