Comparing Nespresso Machines: Inissia vs. Pixie vs. Citiz vs. Essenza

For rich coffee flavour in seconds, the Nespresso line of machines delivers. With so many different models, however, it can be difficult to know which one is best suited to your needs. After we have reviewed the comparison between Nespresso and Dolce Gusto in a previous post, we have reviewed the most popular Nespresso models to help you determine which is right for you.

The basic function of a Nespresso machine remains the same in each model. Each model we reviewed features two programmable one-touch buttons for cup capacity, a fast 25-second warm up time, and an automatic shut off. In every model, the coffee is dispensed quickly and with a rich crema on top.

Inissia
This is a great choice if you are considering buying your first Nespresso machine.
A compact, lightweight machine
  • Dimensions: 32.1 x 12 x 23 cm
  • Weight: 2.4 Kg
  • Special Features: Programmable; Removable Tank; Thermoblock
  • Wattage: 1,260 watts
Pixie
This is a great machine if you are looking for a machine that will last.
Ultra compact, just 11 cm
  • Dimensions: 32.6 x 11.1 x 23.5 cm
  • Weight: 2.8 Kg
  • Special Features: Programmable; Removable Tank; Thermoblock
  • Wattage: 1,260 watts
CitiZ
The Citiz makes an espresso that even aficionados appreciate, and the increased height allows room for taller mugs.
Barista style coffee every time
  • Dimensions: 37.2 x 13 x 27.8 cm
  • Weight: 3.1 Kg
  • 1 L removable water tank
  • Wattage: 1, 870 watts
Essenza Mini
The Essenza Mini is the most compact of the Nespresso machines
A solid, quality machine
  • Dimensions: 32 x 11 x 20.5 cm
  • Weight: 2.3 Kg
  • Separate Aeroccino milk frother
  • Wattage: 1, 310 watts

Nespresso Inissia Review

The Nespresso Inissia is a compact, lightweight machine. It is 4.7 inches wide, 9 inches high, and 12.6 inches tall, with an ergonomic black handle. It’s whimsical and cute with a curving shape, and it comes in four different colours: black, white, red, and ivory. Each colour has a corresponding pattern in the black backsplash behind where the coffee dispenses. In the ivory and white, the grid has a honeycomb pattern, while in the red and black, a simple vertical line pattern. The 24-oz. water tank will brew up to nine cups of coffee without needing to reheat. The Inissia is considered the budget model, but it delivers the delicious coffee you want quickly, and it looks beautiful, too. This is a great choice if you are considering buying your first Nespresso machine. Something to consider, though, is that as the budget model more of the machine is made with plastic. This would be a great machine for a college student, it is fashionable and works well, but shouldn’t be handled too roughly.

Nespresso Pixie Review


The Pixie is similar in size and structure to the Inissia, but it features an avant-garde design aesthetic. It has a black centre with premium aluminium siding, which comes in two different colours and textures. The Pixie Aluminum is silver in colour along the side, with a small diamond pattern in the metal. The Pixie Electric Titan is a warmer steel colour, with a pattern of repeating horizontal lines. In addition to the differences in design from the Inissia, the Pixie model also includes a feature to alert you when you need to refill the water tank. When the water level in the tank begins to get low, red backlights along the side of the machine will light up. The Pixie also has a 24-oz. water tank, which translates to nine cups of coffee. The Pixie is a little sturdier than the Inissia and seems to have more parts made from steel. This is a great machine if you are looking for a machine that will last.

Nespresso Citiz review


The Citiz is slightly bigger than the Inissia and Pixie. It measures 5 inches wide, 11 inches tall, and 14.5 inches deep, and has a retro-modern design in black and silver. The Citiz has a slightly larger water tank as well, at 34 ounces. This allows you to brew up to 12 cups of coffee in quick succession. It further differs from the Inissia and Pixie in that it does not have a handle. To insert the coffee capsule, you raise a small, subtle lever on the top front of the machine. This model can collect 9-11 used capsules, before needing to be emptied. The Citiz makes an espresso that even aficionados appreciate, and the increased height allows room for taller mugs. This is a great option if you like to add steamed milk to your espresso to make a tall latte.

Nespresso Essenza Mini review


The Essenza Mini is the most compact of the Nespresso machines. It is 4 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 12.8 inches deep. The same model includes several colours and two different shapes to choose from. The first shape is a very contemporary rectangular box. The second shape has the same rectangular base but rises to a rounded peak. It reminds me a little of an old-style radio. The water tank holds 20 ounces, which can make seven consecutive cups of coffee. The Essenza is the quietest of the Nespresso machines we reviewed. If you want to make a cup of coffee without waking someone else up, this is a great choice! One thing of note, though, is the most compact machine you are limited in the cup size that will fit under the dispenser. This is best for small or traditional sized coffee cups.

Nespresso machines have earned a reputation for quality, both in design and in coffee experience. The truth is, you can’t go wrong with any of these models. Some of the brand makers of these models include De’Longhi and Krups, in addition to Nespresso. Each maker builds a solid, quality machine.

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