Do you enjoy barista-style coffee but need more than $1,000 or counter space for a professional setup? Good news: With a Nespresso machine, you can produce coffee-based drinks at home, such as an iced latte, cappuccino, or double shot of espresso.
However, with over a dozen different Nespresso machines on the market, it can take time to decide which one to purchase – this is where The Home Accessoris Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab comes in. We examined simplicity of use, brewing duration, consistency, noise level, and taste while testing and evaluating Nespresso machines.
Our top picks:
3
BEST NESPRESSO MACHINE FOR BEGINNERS
Nespresso by De'Longhi Gran Lattissima Espresso Machine
8
BEST OVERALL NESPRESSO MACHINE
Nespresso by De'Longhi Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker
To help you create the best cup of coffee at home, we’ve spent decades testing kitchen equipment and Coffee makers, including drip coffee makers,Cold Brew Coffee Makers, single-serve coffee machines, French press coffee makers, latte machines, cold brew coffee makers, and coffee makers with grinders. Our picks for the finest Nespresso machines are based on models that our analysts and editors have evaluated in the Lab or tried at home, as well as options that piqued our interest due to new and distinctive features that we seek in all espresso machines and coffee makers.
1
PROS
- Makes great espresso
- Compact and portable
- More than 1,880 five-star reviews on Amazon
CONS
- Can be difficult to use and pod adapter is sold separately
- No water reservoir; must source hot water separately
Dimensions: 2.83 x 3.03 x 7.28 inches.
Capsules: Original with adapter.
Milk frother: No.
The Wacaco Nanopresso, while not an actual Nespresso machine, is the most excellent non-electric alternative to a proper espresso machine we’ve found. You can also utilise genuine Nespresso capsules if you purchase this pod-adapter attachment. This tiny espresso maker also has a lot of power. It can generate up to 18 bars of pressure using only hand strength, allowing you to brew a smooth espresso shot anywhere you can access hot water – even in a remote location like camping.
It’s a costly gadget for its size — and it’s not the easiest to use without some practice — but it’s the go-to for travellers and adventurers serious about their espresso or Nespresso while on the road. You can always count on a reliable — and reasonably priced — beverage, no matter where you are.
2
PROS
- Beautiful design
- Lots of customization options
- Spout for hot water
CONS
- Pricey
- Does not make regular coffee
Dimensions: 16.75 x 7.75 x 13 inches.
Capsules: Original.
Milk frother: Yes.
The Creatista Pro is the most premium Nespresso on the market, and it is a step up from the Creatista Plus. This is due to the machine’s additional features, which include a specialized hot water spout for tea and long blacks, a more extensive water reservoir, and more drink personalization possibilities. Although it is on the larger side to accommodate all of these bells and whistles, it has a lovely stainless steel design unmistakably Breville, along with an easy-to-use LCD screen. The Creatista Pro is a premium machine with a luxury price tag, but it is the most customizable model available from Nespresso.
While it cannot use VertuoLine capsules or create conventional coffee, the water spout allows for drip-coffee-like drinks such as Americanos. The following beverages are available: ristretto, espresso, lungo, Americano, flat white, cappuccino, café latte, and latte macchiato. The Pro, which can heat milk and produce espresso simultaneously, is ready to brew in three seconds flat. Furthermore, the inbuilt milk frother makes a smooth, creamy foam that is excellent for skilled users to create fantastic latte art. Our testers appreciate that consumers may retain their drink choices, such as milk volume and texture, as presets.
3
BEST NESPRESSO MACHINE FOR BEGINNERS
Nespresso by De'Longhi Gran Lattissima Espresso Machine
PROS
- Easy to use
- 9 drink presets
- Detachable milk hopper
CONS
- Milk frother is difficult to clean
- Inconsistent between drinks
Dimensions: 7.99 x 14.44 x 10.86 inches.
Capsules: Orignal.
Milk: frotherYes.
The Gran Lattissima falls somewhere between the elegant, user-friendly design of the VertuoPlus and the more sophisticated functionality of the Creatista series. On the top panel, you can choose from nine presets: ristretto, espresso, lungo, cappuccino, latte macchiato, flat white, caffè latte, hot milk, and hot foam. The labelled buttons and LED screen make it extremely simple to select what you want.
The durable machine also has an integrated frother and a built-in modern milk hopper that can be disconnected and stored in the fridge. When you’re finished, you can put the milk jug in the dishwasher. Furthermore, the rinse system is simple. Unfortunately, after testing, we discovered that the milk frother was challenging to clean. The Gran Lattissima was also somewhat uneven between drinks, according to our testers. However, the appliance’s basic presets — as well as its lower price point than the Creatista series — make it a worthy pick for your house, particularly if you’re a newbie seeking cappuccinos and lattes at the touch of a button.
4
PROS
- Makes coffee and espresso, both hot or cold
- Automatic detection of capsule type
- Bluetooth compatible
CONS
- Compatible with Vertuo pods only
- Doesn't include a milk frother
Dimensions: 8.6 x 14 x 10.4 inches.
Capsules: Vertuo.
Milk frother: No.
The Vertuo Pop+, the newest addition to the VertuoLine, is a trendy coffee and espresso machine that comes in a rainbow of seven colours and allows customers to brew hot and cold beverages in five sizes. Choose from 5, 8, or 12-ounce coffees, as well as single and double espressos served hot or cold. It performs similarly to the VertuoPlus but has a thinner design and a smaller water tank. It also has Bluetooth connectivity to make coffee from your phone. Regardless of how you prepare your drink, the one-touch unit heats up quickly – it’s ready to brew in only 30 seconds.
This model, part of the VertuoLine, uses barcodes on each specifically designed capsule to brew the correct strength and amount every time, producing a thick crema. After delivering the perfect cup, the machine has an energy-saving auto-shutoff that kicks in after two minutes of inactivity. The biggest disadvantage? The device does not include an integrated milk frother; if you want one, add the Aeroccino to your basket.
5
PROS
- Beautiful design
- Lots of brewing options
- LCD menu
CONS
- Somewhat loud while brewing
- Does not make regular coffee
Dimensions: 6.7 x 16.1 x 12.2 inches.
Capsules: Original.
Milk frother: Yes.
The Creatista Plus looks like a high-end machine, thanks to its traditional Breville stainless steel design and matching milk jug. The integrated milk-frothing steam wand is ideal for preparing lattes and other beverages.
Despite its advanced capability and execution, the machine is surprisingly simple. An LCD menu lets you choose between 11 different milk temperatures and eight distinct milk froth textures. To produce the perfect hot beverage, select your drink — ristretto, espresso, lungo, latte, cappuccino, flat white, or latte macchiato — size, and milk temperature and texture.
Because it comes from the original line, the Creatista Plus is louder throughout the brewing process (because of the 19 bars of pressure) than the VertuoLine. It also does not work with VertuoLine capsules or produce regular coffee. Overall, it’s one of the priciest Nespresso models on the market. However, our experts believe it is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys lattes and wants dependable espresso from a beautiful machine.
6
PROS
- Compact footprint
- Straightforward operation
- Makes full-bodied, creamy espresso
CONS
- Small water tank
- Louder than VertuoLine machines
Dimensions: 8 x 4.3 x 12.8 inches.
Capsules: Original.
Milk frother: No.
The small but mighty Essenza Mini is a pure Nespresso machine: It’s a small and inexpensive machine that produces high-quality espresso. The engine regularly produces a sound, full-bodied espresso with a lovely crema with each usage. The ultra-compact (just over four inches wide!) alternative foregoes bells and whistles in favour of classic pod espresso. If you’re happy with a good espresso or a lungo (with the option to remove the drip base for a larger cup), you won’t be disappointed. Not to mention that it’s an excellent choice if you need more space or like to keep things simple.
Because this type is from the initial series of machines, it produces 19 bars of pressure when brewing. As a result, despite its compact size, the device may be a little louder than other models. The size of the water bottle, on the other hand, maybe the most significant sacrifice. It’s small, but our testers were okay with refilling it to get the best-tasting cups. On the plus side, the machine has an energy-saving feature: it shuts down after nine minutes of inactivity.
7
PROS
- Budget-friendly
- Works with Nespresso and Keurig pods
- Huge water reservoir
- Auto-shutoff for saving energy
CONS
- Bulky design
- Difficult to close
Dimenions: 16.3 x 7.04 x 13 inches.
Capsules: Original and K-cups.
Milk frother: No.
This brand-neutral pod espresso machine from the makers of the Instant Pot is compatible with both original Nespresso pods and Keurig pods, popularly known as K-cups. Users appreciate the Instant Pod’s one-touch programmes for six various brew sizes, as well as its massive 68-ounce water tank, which reduces the number of trips to the washbasin. The appliance also has an energy-saving auto-shutoff feature that activates after 30 minutes of inactivity.
Despite its versatility, it is a simple and inexpensive machine with a basic black appearance. It’s also simple to clean — no extra rinsing required — making it an excellent choice for companies where employees may want to brew different coffee but lack the resources to maintain something fancier. It also has a small footprint, making it suitable for apartments, RVs, and other tight quarters. If there is a drawback, some users claim the machine can be challenging to close and remove pods.
8
BEST OVERALL NESPRESSO MACHINE
Nespresso by De'Longhi Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker
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PROS
- Foolproof operation
- Makes coffee and espresso
- Automatic detection of capsule type for the perfect cup each time
CONS
- Compatible only with Nespresso Vertuo pods
Dimensions: 16.88 x 5.59 x 12.79 inches.
Capsules: Vertuo.
Milk frother: No.
The VertuoPlus is the ideal Nespresso machine for most people because it properly balances functionality, affordability, and design. It’s also one of the most economical Nespresso machines available, giving it an excellent starting point for those interested in testing this device.
Despite its low price, this device is functional. It can produce coffee and espresso because it is part of the VertuoLine, and it uses barcodes on each specially designed capsule to brew the correct strength and amount every time. There are five different drink options: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, cup, and alto. Then let the machine do the work – owing to the automatic detection of capsule type, there’s nothing to think about. You can always utilise the brand’s Aeroccino milk frother – the best we’ve tested — in conjunction with the machine for something extra.
Every coffee we tested was hot and well-rounded, with a delicious, thick crema. We also liked how the power, rinsing, and brewing functions are all controlled by a single top-facing button. The item is relatively compact, the position of the water tank can be modified to fit any counter area, and the lid opens and closes with a single touch of the lever. If there is a drawback, this Nespresso machine only works with Nespresso Vertuo capsules — although this isn’t specific to this model because the different types of pods aren’t interchangeable.
How we test espresso and Nespresso machines
We test Nespresso machines in the Home Accessoris Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab using the same methods we use to assess espresso machines. We evaluate their ease of use, brew time, consistency, taste, and noise level. In our most recent espresso machine test, we gathered over 20 models capable of making more than 60 cups of espresso. We tried the machine’s milk frother with both skim and oat milk.
While we have yet to test every single Nespresso machine in the Lab formally, we have picked and vetted many of our road-tested top recommendations. We prioritised devices that balance useful features with pricing, are simple to set up and use, and consistently make espresso. Most Nespresso machines produce the same quality of espresso. Still, during taste tests, we ensured that each device had a hot, smooth cup of espresso with depth that wasn’t too bitter or acidic and crema that was smooth and free of visible giant or tiny air bubbles.
What to look for when buying a Nespresso machine
Before you start brewing, you’ll need to determine which type of machine is appropriate for you. Some models, like those in the famous VertuoLine line, can produce coffee and espresso. Some models include built-in milk frothers to make the perfect latte or cappuccino. Others add more crema for a more balanced espresso. Although almost all Nespresso models are easy to use and less expensive than other espresso machines, it’s crucial to think about the features that are important to you before investing. Remember the following:
✔️ Original vs. VertuoLine: To comprehend the distinctions between the Nespresso models, you must first understand how the VertuoLine and the original series of machines operate.
✔️ Original machines, such as the Creatista, Essenza, CitiZ, and Lattissima Series, make espresso by forcing water through the top of a pod at 19 bars of pressure (similar to a traditional espresso machine), eventually rupturing the foil at the bottom of the pod and allowing the espresso to flow out. Because the original machines behave more like espresso machines, they can only create espresso, not coffee, and the crema should be more authentic. Because of this method, original devices are also louder than VertuoLine machines.
✔️ VertuoLine machines, initially introduced in 2014 to appeal to the North American market, employ a distinct technology known as “contribution” by Nespresso: Water enters the dome-shaped capsule at the top, combines with espresso via centrifugal force, and then exits through 20 punctures on the side of the tablet. The VertuoLine machines produce espresso with a thick layer of crema as a result of this contribution process, as well as regular coffee.
Vertuo capsules compared. Original capsules: This is significant since pods cannot be swapped between machine types. All pod varieties, however, can be recycled through the Nespresso capsule recycling programme. Here’s the distinction:
✔️ The original pods are only available in one size. They are often easier to find, less expensive, and more diverse. However, this may change. If you just drink espresso and desire a conventional degree of crema, the original line will most likely meet your demands.
Vertuo pods have specific barcodes that the machines read to generate the correct drink every time, making them very simple. Vertuo pods are now available in various sizes, ensuring that your more extensive drinks are not diluted. A VertuoLine model is your best pick if you want to prepare a broad variety of coffee drinks and enjoy a machine that is very easy to use (and produce coffee!).
✔️ Frothers for milk: Some Nespresso machines, such as the Creatista and Gran Lattissima, include inbuilt steam wands for foaming milk. These are ideal for making macchiatos, lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based beverages. However, these milk frothers can be challenging to clean and maintain at times. Nespresso also sells the Aeroccino, which is a separate milk frother that is frequently included with their machines. If you want a café-like experience, look for a model with an integrated frother. The Aeroccino may not produce “true” microfoam, but it fared admirably in our milk frother testing and quickly and effortlessly prepares milk for your coffee and espresso.
✔️ Size: If you want a machine that is as tiny, powerful, and polished as a shot of espresso, there are many compact models to select from, like the Essenza Mini and CitiZ. To remain tiny and lightweight, these machines forego unnecessary features and large water tanks. However, if you want to prepare multiple cups in succession or a larger cup of coffee for yourself, you should look into larger, taller versions. Make sure the machine you purchase fits under your counters and is compatible with the type of vessel you’ll be drinking your coffee from.
✔️ Manufacturer: Don’t be confused by branding such as “by Breville” or “by De’Longhi” on distinct Nespresso models: Both firms have the right to produce these machines, and neither is necessarily better. The distinctions between manufacturers are essentially about design; for example, many Breville machines adhere to the company’s standard stainless and brushed-stainless look.
How to use Nespresso machines
Since its inception in 1986, Nespresso has created a line of stylish automatic household coffee and espresso machines that use a unique pod-based mechanism. To use a Nespresso machine, select your preferred coffee or espresso pod, insert it into the machine, and push a button for a drink in seconds.
Why trust Home Accessories?
Brigit Earley is a writer and editor with over 15 years of expertise covering home products such as furniture and accessories. She researched and reviewed the Coffee maker mentioned in this story with the help of HA Institute professionals, including vacuum scientists and engineers in the HA Institute Textiles Lab.
