Nespresso machines make coffee from sealed capsules, which keeps the process quick and tidy. There are two main systems. The Original line brews small, strong espresso shots, while the Vertuo line spins its capsules to make larger cups of coffee as well as espresso-style drinks. The machine you pick decides which capsules you can use.
The six machines below cover both systems, from compact espresso makers to models with built-in milk frothing. We have not used these machines ourselves, and we avoid tank sizes and specifications we cannot verify. Please confirm capsule type, water tank size and included accessories on the current listing before you buy.
Think about the drinks you make most often. If you want a quick espresso, a compact Original machine is enough. If you like milk drinks or larger mugs, a Vertuo model or a machine with a frother may suit you better.
Counter space and cabinet height are easy to overlook. Vertuo machines are taller than the compact Original models, and milk systems need room for a container. Measure the spot before you order so the machine fits under your cabinets.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Capsule system | Original and Vertuo capsules are not interchangeable |
| Milk options | Built-in frothers save buying a separate one |
| Size | Compact machines suit small counters |
| Cup sizes | Vertuo models brew larger mugs; Original focuses on small shots |
| Water tank | A bigger tank means fewer refills |
Specs at a Glance
| Machine | System | Milk | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertuo Next | Vertuo | None built in | Compact; brews several cup sizes |
| Vertuo Plus | Vertuo | None built in | Larger tank; motorized head |
| Essenza Mini | Original | None built in | Very compact |
| Pixie | Original | None built in | Metal side panels |
| Lattissima One | Original | Built-in milk system | Makes lattes with one touch |
| Creatista Plus | Original | Steam wand | Manual milk texturing |
The 6 Best Nespresso Machines
1. Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine
A compact Vertuo machine that reads each capsule and adjusts the brew. It makes several cup sizes, from espresso-style drinks to larger mugs.
Suits: people who like bigger cups. Strengths: a compact body and variety. Weaknesses: only Vertuo capsules fit. Skip it if you prefer Original capsules.
View Nespresso Vertuo Next on Amazon
2. Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Machine
A slightly larger Vertuo machine with a motorized head and a bigger tank. It is a straightforward pick for households that drink coffee through the day.
Suits: daily coffee drinkers. Strengths: a larger water tank. Weaknesses: it takes more counter space. Skip it if your kitchen is tiny.
View Nespresso Vertuo Plus on Amazon
3. Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine
One of the smallest Original-line machines. It brews a short espresso or a longer lungo with the push of a button.
Suits: small spaces and espresso fans. Strengths: a tiny footprint and simple use. Weaknesses: no milk system. Skip it if you want lattes at the touch of a button.
View Nespresso Essenza Mini on Amazon
4. Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine
An Original-line machine with metal side panels and a compact build. It heats up quickly and offers espresso and lungo sizes.
Suits: people who want a sturdier-looking machine. Strengths: a compact design and metal finish. Weaknesses: no frother. Skip it if you want milk drinks built in.
View Nespresso Pixie on Amazon
5. Nespresso Lattissima One Espresso Machine
An Original-line machine with a built-in milk system that makes lattes and cappuccinos with a single touch. The milk container is designed to fit in the fridge.
Suits: milk drink lovers. Strengths: an easy, automated milk process. Weaknesses: the milk system needs regular rinsing. Skip it if you drink black coffee.
View Nespresso Lattissima One on Amazon
6. Nespresso Creatista Plus Espresso Machine
An Original-line machine with a steam wand for manual milk texturing. It lets you practice latte art at home while still using capsules.
Suits: people who like to texture milk by hand. Strengths: a steam wand and more control. Weaknesses: it takes practice. Skip it if you want a fully automatic routine.
View Nespresso Creatista Plus on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Descale the machine when the indicator asks for it.
- Empty the used capsule container regularly.
- Rinse the milk system after every use if your model has one.
- Use fresh water in the tank each day.
- Run a rinse cycle with no capsule if the machine has been idle for a while.
- Recycle used capsules through the maker’s program where available.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the wrong capsule type for your machine.
- Leaving milk in the system overnight.
- Skipping descaling.
- Ignoring the counter height under a cabinet.
- Using hard water without a filter or a descaling plan.
Nespresso Machines FAQ
Can I use any capsule?
No. Original machines use Original capsules and Vertuo machines use Vertuo capsules.
Which line makes bigger cups?
Vertuo machines brew larger mugs. Original machines focus on espresso and lungo.
Is a frother included?
Only some models. Check the listing, or buy a separate frother.
The Short Version
For compact Vertuo, the Vertuo Next. For a bigger tank, the Vertuo Plus. For tiny spaces, the Essenza Mini. For metal styling, the Pixie. For one-touch milk drinks, the Lattissima One. For manual milk, the Creatista Plus.