The Best Nespresso Machine for Your Needs: An Epicurious Buying Guide

By Emily Farris

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In the world of pod coffee makers, Epi enthusiastically recommends Nespresso over its more ubiquitous competitors. But deciding which model is the best Nespresso machine for your needs and preferences is far more complicated than actually using any of them.

Whether you’re already sold on the idea of Nespresso or still on the fence, deciding between the different lines, models, and (yes) manufacturers is enough to send even the savviest shopper into a state of analysis paralysis. So to help you get that consistently-delicious coffee and espresso into your cup a little more quickly, I put together this Nespresso buying guide.

Below, I break down the differences between the Original and Vertuo lines, what each machine's features actually do, and what model is the best Nespresso machine based on your coffee drink of choice as well as your aesthetic preferences. And if you’re mostly interested in a Nespresso because it requires practically no cleaning, I don't blame you—and I point you in the right low-maintenance direction.

What's Inside:

Why buy a Nespresso machine?Nespresso Original Line vs. Vertuoline What to consider when buying a Nespresso machineNespresso Original machinesNespresso Vertuo machinesNespresso accessories

If you crave the convenience of a single-serve coffee maker, but can't start your day without a damn fine cup of coffee (or shot of espresso), popping a pod into a Nespresso machine will most definitely make your mornings better. That's because, by eliminating the need to use a grinder, measuring cup, or filter, Nespresso machines leave no room for error. They’re completely foolproof.

And unlike those K-cup machines that make single servings of low-quality drip coffee by forcing hot water through punctures in plastic pods, Nespresso machines use either 19 bars of pressure or centrifugal technology to exquisitely extract coffee and espresso from aluminum capsules. The mode of extraction depends on what line you go with, but both consistently produce a high quality cup with a beautiful crema—yes, even Nespresso coffee gets crema.

If you’re concerned about the environmental aspect of using pods, Nespresso's are free and easy to recycle through the brand's recycling program. Every time you order pods from Nespresso.com (where you can put them on subscription so you never run out) you can request two complimentary recycling bags. The bags have prepaid UPS labels so once they’re full, you can drop them off at a UPS location or Nespresso Boutique (I often hand mine to my UPS delivery person, too). Recycling used Nespresso pods is even easier for New York City residents, who can simply toss them into their curbside recycling bins.

Types of drinks: Espresso onlyCup size options: .85 ounces to 5 ounces

The Original Nespresso machines brew espresso-style shots from Original (sometimes called "Originalline") Nespresso pods using a pressure-driven drip method. And until the Vertuoline was introduced in 2014, Original machines and capsules made up the entirety of Nespresso's offerings.

The pod-only models in the Original line (CitiZ, Essenza Mini, and Pixie) are compact machines with just two buttons that brew either single shots or lungo (Italian for "long") shots with 19 bars of pressure. Out of the box, the settings for each button are 40 ml/1.35 oz and 110 ml/3.7 oz, but these machines can easily be reprogrammed to adjust the brew size to your specific preference. Beyond pod-only machines, the Original line also includes pricier Creatista and Lattissima models, with built-in milk frothers and control panels that allow for making espresso drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos at the touch of a button.

Jump to Nespresso Original machines.

Types of drinks: Coffee and espressoCup size options: 1.35 ounces to 18 ounces

When Nespresso's Vertuoline was introduced in 2014, it took an already-consistent, easy-to-operate espresso system to a whole other level by eliminating the need for the user to make any decisions beyond picking their favorite pods. That's because the rim of every dome-shaped Vertuo capsule is printed with a barcode that tells the machine exactly how much water and what extraction speed to use for that particular pod. And that specialized extraction is key, because the Vertuoline also marked the beginning of Nespresso coffee pods allowing households to have just one machine for espresso shots as small as 1.35 ounces and larger cups of coffee.

With any Vertuo machine, all the user has to do is pop a pod into the machine, make sure there's fresh water in the reservoir, and press the single button. Then the Nespresso takes care of the rest, using centrifuge technology to brew coffee and espresso-style shots—all with a beautiful crema. Like with the Original machines, Vertuoline espresso and coffee machines can be reprogrammed to adjust the water volume for any pod, but it's not really necessary since each brew in a Vertuo machine is already customized for optimal extraction. In addition to a diverse offering of pod-only Vertuo devices, Nespresso also recently released a Creatista (the model that includes a milk frother and allows you to make lattes and cappuccinos) that takes Vertuo pods.

Jump to Nespresso Vertuo machines.

The most important decision to make when choosing a Nespresso is whether you want to commit to the Originalline or the Vertuoline. If you want a machine that will brew larger cups of coffee and espresso-style shots, you should go with the Vertuoline. If you mostly drink espressos or Americanos, you may prefer one of the more compact Original models.

If you want the option to make espresso-based milk drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, you might consider spending a little more on a more versatile Nespresso with a built-in milk frother. The Lattissima and Creatista models make coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites with not much more effort than pouring some milk and pressing a button. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to clean the milk components every time you make a drink.

As a daily latte drinker who's married to a coffee drinker, I can confidently say that most people will be very content with the pod-only machines. They’re more compact, generally more affordable, and require far less daily maintenance than models with built-in frothers. At my house we use a Vertuoplus for coffee and espresso, and I froth and heat my milk with the easy-to-clean Nespresso Aeroccino.

Nespresso pods are available in the following sizes:

Not every Nespresso model makes every drink size, and some Vertuo capsules are slight variations on these defaults. It's also possible to reprogram every model to brew its default sizes with more or less water (well, within a certain range). I’ve included the default brew sizes for each model below.

Unlike smaller Keurigs and other compact single-serve coffee makers, every Nespresso machine has a water reservoir and only uses what it needs to brew a single pod, so you never have to worry about adding the right amount of water—not even when using the smallest models. All Nespresso models also automatically discard spent pods into a built-in receptacle every time you open the lever or lid. The size of the water reservoir and used capsule storage varies by machine, and if you see a machine available in both a Standard and Deluxe model, the biggest difference is that the Deluxe model has a bigger (usually just taller, not wider) water tank.

One of the most convincing reasons to buy a Nespresso is that it requires virtually no daily cleaning or maintenance. However, to prolong the life of your machine and ensure it continues to make quality coffee or espresso, it should be descaled a few times a year. Vertuo machines have an indicator light that alerts the user when it's time to descale, and the machine will still brew for a while in this "warning" state, but at some point it will eventually stop brewing until descaling has been performed. The compact Original machines don't have descaling alerts, but the Lattissima and Creatista models do have alert functions along with some built-in cleaning features.

Nespresso capsules are sold in packs of 10 and while prices on different pods vary depending on type, size, and origin, at the time of publishing, most Nespresso Original line espresso pods are 85 cents each, or $8.50 per sleeve. Single-shot espresso pods for the Vertuo machines are about a dollar each, or 20 cents more than comparable Original pods, while pods for double espresso shots, single-origin coffees, and blends run anywhere from $1.25 to $2.00.

To make choosing a Nespresso just a little bit more complicated, the machines themselves are built by manufacturing partners. In the US, the prominent fabricators are Breville and DeLonghi and while some consumers may have a manufacturer preference, the differences are mostly aesthetic.

Until Nespresso introduced the Vertuoline in 2014, compact, pod-only machines were the go-to for Nespresso drinkers (and the best alternative to Keurig). Three of those models are still widely available, and because they all have very similar specifications, choosing one is mostly a matter of aesthetic preference. That said, of the three compact Original machines, the CitiZ has the biggest water reservoir and has higher-end finishes, so it's the priciest of the bunch.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces Programmable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 33 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 9Maintenance alerts: NoBest for: The CitiZ is best for espresso drinkers with limited space who love the retro look of the early Nespresso models.

The Essenza Mini is the smallest Nespresso machine you can get. This model also really demonstrates that Nespresso's machines are manufactured by different companies. The Breville version is a tiny tower of clean lines and it's even more compact than the more rounded, retro-inspired De’Longhi version.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces Programmable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 20 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: No but removableUsed capsule container min. capacity: 6Maintenance alerts: NoBest for: The Essenza Mini is best for espresso drinkers who are really short on space but have a very clear idea of what they want their machine to look like.

The Pixie is another super compact Original machine with retro metal finishes—including a fun chrome lever for opening and closing the capsule compartment.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 20 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: No but removableUsed capsule container min. capacity: 11Maintenance alerts: NoBest for: The Pixie is best for espresso drinkers who need a compact espresso maker and also like an industrial look.

The newest Lattissima model, this compact espresso and latte machine makes nine one-touch milk drinks and has an integrated cleaning system that does most (but not all) of the daily cleaning for you. This is one of two Lattissima models that makes the smallest ristretto espresso shots right out of the box (the other is the Lattissima Pro, featured below) but it can also make big milk drinks thanks to the 17-ounce milk reservoir.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure, plus 9 preset espresso-based milk drinks Cup sizes: .85 ounces, 1.35 ounces, 3.7 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 34 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 14Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Gran Lattissima is best for cappuccino or latte drinkers who want the entire drinking-making process—including cleaning—to be as automatic as possible.

Introduced in 2014, the Lattissima Pro is another espresso maker plus a one-touch cappuccino and latte machine. This older model has an industrial-inspired look and seven preset buttons that allow you to customize the favorite drinks of everyone in your home. If you want a Nespresso that makes small shots of espresso and also has built-in milk frothing and drink-making capabilities, this is a great option.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure, plus 9 espresso-based milk drinks Cup sizes: .85 ounces, 1.35 ounces, 3.7 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 44 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 13Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Lattissima Pro is best for a household that prefers small shots of espresso and bigger espresso-based milk drinks, and likes an industrial look.

Introduced in 2018, the Lattissima Touch heats up quickly and has six one-touch drink recipes: cappuccino, cafe latte, and a latte macchiato, plus coffee, espresso, and hot milk foam. The Lattissima Touch also has a 14-ounce fresh milk reservoir and customizable milk-frothing functions.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure, plus 3 espresso-based milk drinks, and hot milkCup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 3.7 ounces Programmable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 30 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 10Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Lattissima Touch is best for a household that really enjoys espresso-based milk drinks and would like to have them at the touch of a button.

The newest addition to the Lattissima line, the Lattissima One is also the most affordable and compact. It has three customizable one-touch recipes—espresso macchiato, cappuccino, and latte macchiato—though some reviewers have complained that customization is not as intuitive as it is with other models. The 4.2-ounce removable milk container is dishwasher safe, too.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure, plus espresso-based milk drinks Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 3.7 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 34 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 8Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Lattissima One is best for folks who prefer relatively small milk drinks like cappuccinos and macchiatos and want one machine that does it all.

The Creatista Pro is Nespresso's priciest machine. It's manufactured by Breville, which also makes the Barista Express Impress, Epi's top pick for the best espresso machine under $1,000. With its brushed stainless steel body, steam wand, and lack of built-in milk reservoir, this high-quality Nespresso actually looks a lot like a superautomatic espresso machine, too. It heats up in just three seconds, has a dedicated hot water spout, and the touchscreen control panel lets you choose from eight preset milk drinks, plus an Americano. You can even customize the milk temperature and froth level. The standalone steam wand requires you to froth milk in a separate (included) stainless-steel pitcher—which means you can also experiment with latte art at home.

Drink type: Espresso using pressure, plus espresso-based milk drinks Cup sizes: .85 ounces, 1.35 ounces, 3.7 ounces, plus 5.3-ounce AmericanoProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 68 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 12Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Creatista Pro is best for latte drinkers who like the look of a real espresso machine but want a consistent cup at the push of a button (er, touchscreen icon).

The Creatista Plus was the precursor to the Creatista Pro. This more affordable Creatista model still comes with the built-in steam wand and milk pitcher, but it has fewer presets and customizations than the Pro and has a dial instead of a touchscreen (though it does have an easy-to-read LED display).

Drink type: Espresso using pressure, plus espresso-based milk drinks Cup sizes: .85 ounces, 1.35 ounces, 3.7 ounces Programmable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 50 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 12Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Creatista Plus is best for latte and cappuccino drinkers who want the consistency and convenience of a Nespresso with the look of a more advanced espresso machine—but who may not need all of the customizations of the Creatista Pro.

For Epi's single-serve coffee maker category review, I tested twelve popular pod and K-cup machines, including multiple Nespresso models, and the VertuoPlus was my top pick. It has a minimalist design, it's super simple to operate, and the position of the water tank can be easily adjusted—which is really helpful if you have limited or awkward counter space. It also comes in more colors than many other Vertuo models.

Drink type: Coffee and espresso using centrifusion Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces, 5 ounces, 8 ounces, 14 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 40 ounces (60 ounces on Deluxe model)Adjustable water tank position: YesAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 10Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The VertuoPlus is best for people who want consistent, foolproof coffee and espresso at the push of a button—with no daily maintenance or unnecessary bells and whistles.

The Vertuo Next is the only Nespresso pod-only model that can brew 18 ounces of coffee from a single pod (you can buy a compatible carafe from Nespresso or just brew into something big enough that also fits under the machine's spout). This was the first Nespresso machine made from 40% recycled plastic and also the first with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity—which some find useful for maintenance alerts, firmware updates, and capsule tracking. Customer reviews are really mixed on this model, but if you want the app control, it's worth trying it for yourself, considering Nespresso's 30-day return policy, one-year warranty, and great reputation for repairs and maintenance.

Drink type: Coffee and espresso using centrifusion Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces, 5 ounces, 8 ounces, 12 ounces, 18 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 37 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 10Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The VertuoNext is best for tech-savvy coffee and espresso drinkers who want the ability to brew single espresso shots as well as fill an 18-ounce carafe with coffee at the push of a button.

The Vertuo Pop+ is Nespresso's newest pod-only model. It has Vertuoline capabilities in a body that's closer in size to the compact Original machines. At 10.4 inches tall, it's pretty much a miniature version of the Vertuo Next, though it doesn't brew the 18-ounce coffee pod. It does, however, have a 25-ounce water tank that you can reposition. The Pop+ also comes in a handful of fun colors.

Drink type: Coffee and espresso using centrifusion Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces, 5 ounces, 8 ounces, 12 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 25 ounces (37 ounces on Deluxe model)Adjustable water tank position: YesAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 8Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Vertuo Pop+ is best for coffee and espresso drinkers who are short on space but big on tech.

The Nespresso Vertuo, launched in 2014, was the very first machine in the Vertuoline. Though it appears to be a lot bigger than the VertuoNext, it actually has a very similar footprint—as well as a cool Art Deco vibe. Beyond the smart barcode reader that differentiates all Vertuo machines from the Original line, this one doesn't have any high-tech features, but it does have a 40-ounce water reservoir.

Drink type: Coffee and espresso using centrifusion Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces, 5 ounces, 8 ouncesProgrammable water volume: YesWater reservoir size: 40 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 13Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The early-model Vertuo is best for coffee and espresso drinkers who prefer a large water tank and appreciate Art Deco-inspired design.

Until very recently, if you wanted a Nespresso machine with a steam wand or other built-in milk-frothing capability, your choices were limited to one of the high-end Creatista or Lattissima models Original line. But in March of 2023, Nespresso released the Vertuo Creatista. Manufactured exclusively by Breville, this coffee and espresso machine has the same features as the Original Creatista machine and then some, including buttons for drink presets, a steam wand, and an included milk jug for making latte art. But unlike the earlier Creatista models, this one takes Vertuo pods and will even brew the 18-ounce carafe size. You can also customize the water volume and extraction speed for espresso and select the temperature and texture of your milk. Though this model doesn't have a touchscreen, it does have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities for software updates and machine settings.

Drink type: Coffee and espresso using centrifusion Cup sizes: 1.35 ounces, 2.7 ounces, 5 ounces, 8 ounces, 12 ounces, 18 ounces, plus 7 milk drink pre-setsProgrammable water extraction: YesWater reservoir size: 60 ouncesAdjustable water tank position: NoAdjustable drip tray: YesUsed capsule container min. capacity: 10Maintenance alerts: YesBest for: The Vertuo Creatista is best for a coffee and espresso drinker who likes the look of a real espresso machine and sometimes wants to feel like a barista at home without having to do all the work—but is okay doing some daily maintenance to keep the milk components clean.

Here are a couple of items to enhance your Nespresso experience.

If you opt for a pod-only machine but still want the ability to make milk drinks, consider getting the Nespresso Aeroccino. This sleek, corded milk frother makes both hot and cold foamed milk and it can be tucked away in a cabinet when you don't need it. It's also super easy to clean.

To keep your Nespresso machine in tip-top shape, it needs to be descaled about twice a year (though the frequency depends on how much you use your machine as well as the hardness of your water). The best and easiest way to do this is by using the brand's descaling solution, which is sold in a two-pack.