If you want quality coffee, and after a good capsule machine, the best Nespresso machines are a popular choice. In fact, it’s one of the few brands of capsule machine which can reach a high enough temperature and pressure to brew a full-bodied espresso, complete with crema. Add to that, the machines are renowned for their convenience, sleek design and ease of operation, which even the best coffee makers struggle to compete with. But, with there being so many models available, how can you tell which one is suitable for your needs and home?
Luckily, we’ve done the research to find the best Nespresso machine you can buy. We tested everything each model had to offer, from functions and special features, all the way to its limitations—things like the design, ease of cleaning as well as its compactness for storage. Finally, we compiled our reviews to form a list of the best Nespresso machines.
If you're looking for the best of the best that Nespresso has to offer, we recommend the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima, which features milk frothing and smart Vertuo technology. Want something a bit simpler? Take a look at the Nespresso CitiZ, which is a high-quality machine that makes great espresso. So whether you’re shopping on a budget, or need a machine which can froth milk, we've selected the best Nespresso machines right now.
Quick list
If you want a Nespresso machine that ticks every box, the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima is our top pick. This neat little machine can make a huge range of drinks, dispenses a variety of steamed milks, and is immensely easy to use. We can't fault it.
The Nespresso CitiZ is an Original-line machine that works with a range of pods, not just own-brand. Construction quality is impressive, espresso was rich and flavorful with an authentic level of crema, and its two drink sizes are ideal for households who enjoy both espresso and longer coffees.
Offering brilliant value for money, we think the Vertuo Plus is great for coffee lovers. It's cheaper than Nespresso's standard Vertuo machine, and comes with large water container for a range of brew sizes.
Marked with the high-end finish you'd expect from a Breville-made machine, this stainless steel Nespresso has automatic milk steaming and brews original line Nespresso capsules.
It's not the most versatile of Nespresso's machines, only offering two drink sizes, but the Pixie is ideal for those who love espresso. It's also one of the brand's most compact options.
The older iteration of our number one buy, the Latissima One is great for making milk-based drinks. It might also be Nespresso's best-looking machine, with a textured exterior and frosted plastic milk container that's easy to store.
The best Nespresso machines you can buy today
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Best overall
If you want a Nespresso machine that can do it all, the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima is our top pick. This multi-faceted machine can make a selection of milky drinks and still has all the benefits of Nespresso's clever Vertuo system which automatically brews the ideal drink length for your chosen capsule.
We enjoyed the neat design of this attractive machine, which has a removable milk container that slots easily onto the front unit to make all-in-one cappuccinos or latte macchiatos. You can also make a babyccino, so not everything you make in this machine needs to be espresso-based.
In terms of performance, we were happy with the range of drinks we made in this machine, but the milk-based were the standouts. We also made a delicious long coffee over iced, but noticed that the 57fl oz container could run out fast if you prefer to drink mugs of coffee over espresso.
Read our full Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima review.
Best Original line
They don't make them like the Nespresso CitiZ any more. This luxe original-line machine brews two sizes by default — 1.35 oz espresso and 3.7 oz lungo — which are great for mixing it up between short, espresso-based drinks and longer coffees. The small machine features an impressively large used pod container, so you won't find yourself emptying it too often. It also has two cup holder levels that will prevent splashing, no matter which drink size you choose. It's also got a quality metallic finish that feels premium compared to many plastic alternatives.
Unlike Vertuo machines, you won't get tailor-made pods for different drink lengths with this Original line model, so the longer drinks you brew in the CitiZ will be extracted from the same pod size as your shorter espressos, making them a bit weaker. That aside, I was still very impressed with the rich and complex flavor of the coffee I made in this machine. It also brewed with an authentic layer of crema and an aromatic finish, pretty comparable to a real espresso machine.
The downside? The CitiZ is quite expensive for what you get. It makes sense, because Nespresso would sooner have you invest in its latest Vertuo line and lock you into buying Nespresso-exclusive capsules. By contrast, you can shop Original-line pods from any number of roasters or budget stores. So the up-front cost is higher, but this could be offset by a lower ongoing pod price.
Read our full Nespresso CitiZ review.
Best value
The Nespresso VertuoPlus was released as a step above the original Vertuo, but these days it not only offers a lower price tag but still brings out the best in easy to brew pod coffee. While the only extra features are a movable water reservoir and automatically opening and closing lid, you're getting a much better value Nespresso machine here. With capacity reaching all the way up to 14oz brews, you're sorted whether you're after a quick espresso shot or a full travel mug.
Not only that, but Nespresso's centrifusion brewing technology also makes for creamy, well-balanced coffee and the automatic pod detection means your Nespresso coffee maker always knows the perfect settings for your drink of choice.
That means you're getting a strong set of additional features, excellent coffee quality, and flexibility in storing your Nespresso - all for an affordable price. It should be noted that while there is no built-in milk frother, you can often buy this machine as a bundle with a separate Nespresso milk frother included.
Read our full Nespresso Vertuo Plus review.
Best premium
Created in collaboration with Breville, the Nespresso Creatista Plus is one of the best-looking Nespresso machines on the market. It has a smart control panel that allows you to choose your preferred drink, and an automatic milk steaming wand that recreates some of that classic espresso machine charm with the ability to pour your own milk, as opposed to watching a milk steaming attachment pour it for you.
This is an expensive option, but you won't get the Vertuo capsule system included so you'll be stuck with original Nespresso pods that work best for espresso-based drinks when you opt for this machine.
We were particularly pleased with the quality microfoam that was created by the Breville steaming attachment, which is a noisy feature hitting 86 decibels when we tested it, but offers an impressive 11 temperature options. If you love a premium look and a milky coffee, this is a brilliant choice.
Read our full Nespresso Creatista Plus review
Best for espresso
As one of Nespresso's original line coffee makers, the Pixie can only produce (0.84 and 1.35 oz) drinks. However, you can top up your espresso with hot water or run a few cycles through your capsule if you want to make a longer drink. We found that this comes out a little weak when we tested the machine, but where it excelled was its premium-feel, compact design.
The Nespresso Pixie features a largely metal construction, which makes it feels a lot higher quality than many capsule machines. Our reviewer described it as "robust" when testing, and enjoyed the metal lever that's used to open and close the capsule container. That there is only one Nespresso machine, the Essenza Mini, that's smaller than the Pixie, so this compact option is ideal for small spaces.
Another enjoyable feature is the ease of use with this machine. It has only two buttons, one for a shot of espresso and one for a lungo, and we found that it pre-heated in only 30 seconds, meaning you can have a cup of espresso in under a minute with its 20-second brew time. If you did want a milk frother to sit alongside the Pixie, you can buy it with Nespresso's Aeroccino in a bundle.
Read our full Nespresso Pixie review
Best for milky drinks
The Nespresso Lattissima One does carry a significant premium in its price tag, but for good reason. If you're looking to tinker with volumes of coffee, water and milk to make the perfect brew but still prefer the convenience of a pod coffee machine, the Lattissima One is the best Nespresso machine for you.
You can make either espresso or lungo with this Nespresso Original model, and then top it up with a selection of milk settings. The milk dispenser allows you to make latte macchiato or cappuccino as well as a cup of plain hot milk, although the milk container is on the small side.
If you prefer to drink longer coffees but want the option of milky lattes, we recommend the more versatile Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima, but the Lattissima one is perfect for those who prefer milk-based espresso drinks.
Read our full Nespresso Lattissima One review
Best small
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is another more affordable option when it comes to the best Nespresso machines. With this machine, you're getting strong value not just for the Nespresso brand but also for an espresso machine in general. You're not skimping on the richness of your coffee by dropping the price or choosing the convenience of a pod system either. With 19-bar pressure, the Essenza Mini manages to pack both ease of use and quality into a low price tag.
While it's definitely a no-frills approach, with no personalization options, those looking to streamline their morning shot of energy will benefit from the simple system here.
Read our full Nespresso Essenza Mini review
Best luxury
I find hard to recommend a Nespresso machine that costs over $600, but it can't be denied that if you want the best of the best and price isn't an option, Nespresso made the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista for you. It's got the classic Vertuo brewing system and can make drinks in 6 sizes, including 5, 8, 12, and 18 oz coffees, as well as single and double shots. What really stands out is, first, the high-tech look and feel of the design. Who doesn't love a Breville-style stainless steel coffee maker? Not everyone will this the Vertuo Creatista is a looker, but I'm quite keen on the build which straddles retro and hyper-modern style.
Secondly, milk steaming options are next-level. Featuring Breville's bespoke automatic milk steaming wand, which can brew to three different temperatures and textures, you'll be set to make any milk-based milk drink you could want with this machine. But it goes without saying that you could get this same milk wand on an actual espresso machine for around the same price, so this one's for the Nespresso fans who'd knowingly choose a single-serve over a classy espresso machine. If that's you, this is a great option.
Best for large coffees
One of the best Nespresso coffee machines for those who don't want to spend too much, the Vertuo offers a set of features designed for everyday, but still high quality, coffee. You're still getting the centrifusion brewing technique here, which means creamy coffee and an even steep, as well as Nespresso's premium pod detection technology so your machine can automatically configure the best brewing settings for each drink.
Not only that, but you can still brew up to 14oz drinks here, or even go for a carafe for a more traditional drip experience. This Nespresso coffee machine is sitting towards the more affordable end of the scale, though, so there are some sacrifices to be made.
The Vertuo Next takes a little longer to warm up, and there's no milk frother included here so you'll need to pick one up separately if you want that extra layer of luxury in your morning brew. We don't love the retro look, but it is good for fitting large cups underneath the dispenser.
Read our full Nespresso Vertuo review
How we test the best Nespresso machines
Millie has been reviewing Nespresso machines for five years, so it's a good thing she loves coffee. In fact, she's such an enthusiast that she's even taken a course with the Specialty Coffee Association to qualify as a barista. She brings these skills to all of her coffee reviews, from luxe espresso machines to entry-level pod models, and uses her in-depth knowledge to recommend the right machines to our readers.
Helen has reviewed countless kitchen appliances from coffee makers to air fryers. She's an expert home economist and spent years working at the Good Housekeeping Institute before going freelance. She reviewed a number of the machines in this guide.
We tested each and every coffee maker in this guide to bring you our comprehensive ranking. There are a few models that have very similar names: that's because Nespresso is currently adding Vertuo iterations of its most popular Original lineup to its offering: for example, the most recent Nespresso launch of the Vertuo Creatista is a Vertuo version of Nespresso's original Creatista machine, which features the same steam wand but with a different brewing system. Ranking these machines is tricky, because it depends on your prefered Nespresso system.
When reviewing, we firstly considered the actual taste of the coffee. After all, even the most convenient Nespresso machine would be no good if it didn't provide quality flavors. We also considered user experience though, because single-serve machines are designed to put convenience at the forefront. If a machine felt too prissy, we marked it down. This included the need to refill too often, or empty the capsules too regularly.
Where Nespresso machines came with milk wands or dispensers, we tested them on every setting. A good milk dispenser should create evenly distributed micro-foam that's not too hot and which lasts a good amount of time. And we give bonus points where it brews cool enough to steam plant milks without burning them.
If you're not sure which type of coffee maker to buy, be sure to check out our guide.
What are the different types of Nespresso machines?
Nespresso splits its machines into its Vertuo line and an Original line. Vertuo coffee makers will have this branding in their names, however the Original line encompasses larger and sometimes more expensive devices like the Lattissima, CitiZ, and Essenza.
The main difference between Vertuo and Original Nespresso machines is the coffee sizes you'll be able to brew from them. The Vertuo line offers everything from 1.35oz to 18oz while Originals are designed to offer smaller but stronger brews of between 0.85oz and 5oz.
You'll also need different pods for these machines, but both are made from recyclable aluminium and offer a massive range of blends and strengths.
How to choose the best Nespresso machine for you
When considering which Nespresso machine would best fit you, it's important to consider the context of how you will be using your device, the space you have available, and the pods you want to use.
How you will use your Nespresso
If you need a coffee machine that can handle larger servings, either for multiple morning drinkers or for guests later on in the day, make sure you've got a fast brew, a large water reservoir, and a large pod storage drawer. You could also check out the best coffee makers for some pod-alternative options.
However, if you just need a few cups in the morning to get you going, you won't need to pay for these features and can easily get by with a much smaller device.
How much space you have
Nespresso machines can get pretty large, even though they're still only using smaller pods. Once you add milk frothers, reservoirs, and pod storage into the equation you can easily start running out of counter space. Measure not only the coffee machine you're intending to buy, but also the accessories and storage needed to make the most of it.
Pod type
Nespresso Vertuo machines use different pods to the Original line of coffee makers. These pods allow for the centrifusion brewing technique that makes Vertuo coffee so creamy and well-balanced, so it's worth checking which pod type your chosen device will take.
Price
Nespresso tends to offer more premium and expensive designs compared to other pod brands on the market. This is because these machines can actually reach a high enough temperature and pressure to produce a quality espresso, complete with a layer of crema. Some of the best Keurig coffee makers come close to offering a comparable performance, and these feature a more reasonable price. However, if you want an espresso similar to what you’d get from an espresso machine, Nespresso is your best bet.
Some Nespresso machines are more wallet-friendly than others, particularly if you opt for a smaller design which doesn’t come with so many features or milk-frothing capabilities. And when you compare the price of our winner, which costs less than $200, to some of the best espresso machines, you will find there’s substantial savings to be had by opting for Nespresso.
FAQs
What's the difference between Nespresso vs Keurig?
If you're searching for the best Nespresso, you've likely also come across the brand's main competitor, Keurig. The two brands offer similar pod coffee machines, but with some key differences that will fit one use case better than another.
The Nespresso range tends to offer a slightly more complex approach to brewing your coffee. Many models make the most of centrifusion brewing techniques which allow for a more well-balanced coffee flavor, and many also use smart capsule recognition to automatically set the correct brew environment for your drink of choice. If you're after a more premium brewing method, it might be worth paying the slightly higher prices for a Nespresso machine.
However, the best Keurig coffee makers can make the most of the K-Cup variety on offer. There are so many brands offering their own K-Cup coffees, from Dunkin' Donuts and Krispy Kreme to Starbucks. If you're looking for extra variety in your brews, or if you want to spend a little less, this is likely the best way to go.
Do all Nespresso machines make the same quality of coffee?
Because the same brewing process is implemented across all Nespresso machines, and because the same capsules can be used across the range, the actual quality of the coffee should stay the same. However, keep in mind that there are two types of capsule available which will affect the final product: Original and Vertuo. These go through different extraction methods as part of the brewing process, with Vertuo generally offering larger brew sizes and Original focusing on espressos.
Each machine will also have its own independent design, which affects the simplicity of the controls, the general ease of use and the performance of any additional functions, such as the milk frother. That’s why we’ve taken the time to stop and compare what each model has to offer, so you can get the best of everything.
How much should I spend on a Nespresso machine?
While Nespresso is known to be a premium brand, its coffee machines can cost anywhere from $130 up to almost $600. So there’s quite a difference in price depending on the model and features you opt for, as well as any partnering brands.
For instance, a milk frother or steam wand will soon add to the price tag, while partnering brands, such as Breville, can give the machine a more premium finish, such as a stainless steel exterior. But, you don’t necessarily have to pay top dollar to get the best Nespresso machine for you.
With such a range of models to choose from, it’s important that you decide what you need from your Nespresso machine before you start shopping. For instance, are you likely to use a milk frother, or would a more compact design suit your space?
Decide whether you want a machine which takes Original or Vertuo capsules before you begin browsing as well. In doing this, you know exactly what to look for in your Nespresso machine, preventing you from overspending on unnecessary features.
It also helps to have a budget in mind as well, so you have a definite limit on your expenditure. By sticking to your needs and your budget, you won’t overspend on the best Nespresso machine.
