There’s not much that beats the smell and taste of a fresh cup of coffee. Sometimes, the early morning runs to Dunkin might get old, or you just don’t feel like heading there at all. Either way, a Nespresso could fit your coffee needs! Made with convenience in mind, the best Nespresso machines are a great option for providing you with coffee shop quality flavor in a pinch. But which are worth the money?
While there continues to be debate about caffeine and health, studies continue to come out supporting its benefits. Recent research finds that people who drink two to three cups of coffee per day have a 10 to 15 percent lower risk of developing coronary heart disease, heart failure, an issue with heart rhythm, or dying for any reason. Another study found that drinking three cups cuts heart attack and stroke risk by a third and that the drink is rich in antioxidants that fend off inflammation.
Even better, it turns out that you may not even have to drink coffee to reap some benefits. A recent international study has found that just the smell of coffee alone can increase focus, ambition, and even arousal. This same work also found that even drinking a cup of decaf can increase reaction time and productivity.
These listed benefits of coffee just scratch the surface. But even without them, you can’t go wrong with a good cup of coffee. That’s why StudyFinds has compiled a list of the consensus best Nespresso machines from multiple expert websites, to make those late nights and early mornings a bit easier. As always, we’d like to see your recommendations in the comments below!
The List: Best Nespresso Coffee Machines, According to Experts
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
The VertuoPlus also brews espresso capsules, so you can make espresso, double espresso, or a regular cup of coffee. “The technology behind this dense, rich, aromatic coffee is simple. A machine head penetrates the capsules in the center and around the edges, allowing hot water to enter the center opening and push through the twenty edge holes. This technique maximizes ground coffee interaction and pressure,” says USA Today.
“I’ve found the Nespresso VertuoPlus to be a standout choice for most users, striking an impressive balance between features, price, and design. This model stands out as one of the most accessible in terms of cost, making it an excellent entry point for those new to Nespresso machines,” offers Boyd Hampers.
“Our choice for the best Nespresso machine overall is a model that’s celebrated for its brewing speed and consistency. The VertuoPlus features thoughtful designs like a one-touch brewing system, an adjustable cup shelf, and a moveable water tank,” states the Insider.
2. Nespresso Essenza Mini
The Nespresso Mini’s tank only holds enough water for about 10 shots. But since it’s recommended that you refill the tank with fresh water every day, “The Essenza Mini dispenses the same great cup of crema-topped espresso you’d expect from the largest, most expensive Nespresso machine. But it won’t force you to give up as much precious counter space. Wondering what you give up? Although it’s attractively designed, the Essenza doesn’t quite have the heft of the pricier models,” says USA Today.
“The Essenza Mini stands out as a quintessential example of what Nespresso machines are all about compact efficiency and quality espresso production. This machine is a testament to the idea that good things come in small packages, delivering consistently rich and full-bodied espressos with an impressive crema,” states Boyd Hampers.
“Weighing in at only five pounds, the Essenza Mini is the smallest model offered by Nespresso, but its petite stature in no way limits its brewing power. This lean machine preheats in under 30 seconds, and shifts from flashing to solid lights on the control buttons makes it clear when it’s time to start brewing. The Essenza Mini has two control buttons: one for standard (or short) shots that produce a smaller amount of stronger espresso and one for lungo (long) shots that have more liquid and a lighter flavor profile,” adds Insider.
3. Nespresso CitiZ & Milk Frother
While all Nespresso machines are meant to be displayed, many agree that no other model taps into the needs of interior design nerds quite like the CitiZ. “This compact Nespresso is similarly sized to other small models like the Essenza Mini and Vertuo Pop+, but its stainless steel paneling, streamlined tank and cup placement, and polished modern industrial vibe feel especially Instagrammable,” shares Insider.
“The Nespresso CitiZ stands out for its high performance and sleek design. Equipped with a 19-bar pump system, this machine consistently delivers barista-style, single-serve coffee or espresso. It excels in extracting the full, delicate flavor of each Nespresso Original Coffee capsule, offering a superior coffee experience with every cup,” shares Boyd Hampers.
“Stylish and with a larger capacity, the Citiz is an Original line machine better for bigger groups. The buttons for the espresso and lungo can be programmed to adjust to the size of the drink you would prefer. This machine has a 33-ounce water tank, which can make seven to nine espressos, and has a capsule tray that holds nine used capsules,” states the Food Network.
4. Breville Nespresso Creatista Plus
The Breville Creatista Plus stands out because of its elegance and functionality. “Its classic stainless steel design, complemented by a matching milk jug, immediately positions it as a premium machine. The Creatista Plus excels in its brewing capabilities, offering a plethora of options. The highlight is its integrated steam wand, ideal for crafting lattes and a variety of other milk-based drinks,” says Boyd Hampers.
“This model offers several brewing options. Espresso options include regular-sized or lungo. Coffee offerings include flat white, cappuccino, and latte. This Nespresso is so straightforward, we didn’t even need to read the manual to get started. Once plugged in, the smart display screen quickly got my attention and led me through getting the machine ready. This model has every aspect of a user-friendly espresso maker. It features a sleek design, intuitive touch buttons, and a countertop-friendly size,” says USA Today.
“Along with the advanced technology comes a high-end look, one reminiscent of manual espresso machines but much easier to use. Simply choose the drink you want—from ristretto, espresso, lungo, latte, cappuccino, flat white, or latte macchiato—adjust the serving size, then select your milk temperature and texture from the digital menu,” shares The Spruce Eats.
5. Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista
If you’re looking to compete with top coffee shops, the Creatista is like having a barista right in your kitchen. “Start by selecting a drink from the LCD touchscreen, where you can swipe up and down from the drinks menu, then adjust your coffee preference. Water takes just three seconds to heat to the optimal brewing temperature. Thanks to an integrated milk-frothing system, you can also control milk frothing texture and temperature. This fully-automated machine does so much more than make espresso, so it’s the best option for latte-lovers looking to make high-quality drinks, like cappuccino or Americano at home,” adds Forbes.
“This handsome stainless steel Vertuo Creatista can turn your kitchen into a high-end barista counter, and an integrated milk wand releases your inner latte artist,” writes CNN.
“While the Vertuo Creatista has a hefty price tag, avid latte lovers can justify the expense when comparing it to what they’re already spending at coffee shops. We wouldn’t recommend the Creatista for more casual coffee drinkers, but the true connoisseurs out there will appreciate this best Nespresso machine’s precision and versatility,” explains Insider.
6. Nespresso Vertuo Next
This is the slimmest to come from Nespresso’s line of coffee machines. “It comes in various attractive colors to match any kitchen’s palette. During testing, we loved how intuitive this machine was to use and how easy it was to upkeep. With options beyond mere espresso—including regular coffee and 18-ounce carafes—the Nespresso Vertuo Next offers a lot of drink options with a tiny footprint,” says USA Today.
“Stylish and with a larger capacity, the Citiz is an Original line machine better for bigger groups. The buttons for the espresso and lungo can be programmed to adjust to the size of the drink you would prefer. This machine has a 33-ounce water tank, which can make seven to nine espressos, and has a capsule tray that holds nine used capsules,” adds the Food Network.
This model is affordable and reliable. “It includes a streamlined design and functionality that operates pretty similarly to the Vertuo Plus. At first, it was slightly difficult to use due to its lock-top mechanism, which was more complicated than many of the other models that allow you to simply lift a lever or press a button and insert a pod. However, it was pretty easy to operate once I got the hang of it,” writes Forbes.
7. Gran Lattissima Expresso Machine
The Gran Lattissima’s design is intuitive, featuring clearly labeled buttons and an LED screen that simplifies selection. “The Gran Lattissima machine smartly bridges the gap between the user-friendly VertuoPlus and the feature-rich Creatista series from Nespresso. This machine stands out for its ease of use and the versatility offered by its nine drink presets, including options like ristretto, espresso, lungo, and various milk-based beverages,” offers Boyd Hampers.
“Another benefit of the Gran Lattissima is how quickly it brews. This is true for most Nespresso makers, but the speed is especially notable here considering the variety and complexity of drink options. It took just 20 seconds for an espresso shot and 50 seconds for a cappuccino. We also found its heat-up time second fastest out of the eleven machines we tested,” adds The Spruce Eats.
“Like many options on this list, the machine warms up in 25 seconds. Most Nespresso makers are noisy when brewing and the Gran Lattissima’s adds the glugging and chugging of milk as it foams, which is something to consider if you’re an early bird in close quarters with sleeping night owls,” offers Pop Science.
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
Vertuo is NOT a reliable machine. in fact it has higher than industry average fail rates and I would not recommend it to anyone.
Note: I was working for 6 years for Nespresso marketing and I do know first hand the lies they say. Vertuo is just another coffee machine now that the capsule patent for Original Line has expired. They have a patent for Vertuo until 2027…
Kisses, an ex-employee