6 Best Nespresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed
Our coffee experts found the best Nespresso machines to suit your needs.
Expert consulted: Nicole PapantoniouKitchen Appliances Lab Director
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Nespresso machines offer a convenient way to make espresso and coffee simply by inserting a Nespresso capsule and pressing a button or two. The brand has two different categories of machines, one that uses its Original capsules and one that uses Vertuo capsules. Both offer a wide variety of coffee drinks but the Original line is better suited for espresso drinkers while the Vertuo models are geared toward coffee and espresso drinkers with more options for coffee styles and sizes.
Here at the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab we test coffee makers year-round including traditional drip coffee makers, single-serve coffee makers, French presses, coffee makers with grinders, espresso machines and so much more. To find the best Nespresso machines, we tested different models' ease of use and performance. Our experts also taste tested various coffee and espresso drinks. Over the years, we've had our hands on nearly every Nespresso model the brand has to offer and in our latest test, we brewed over 30 capsules to determine the best option for each person.
Nespresso by De'Longhi Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker
Pros
- Foolproof operation
- Makes coffee and espresso
- Automatic detection of capsule type for the perfect cup each time
Cons
- Compatible only with Nespresso Vertuo pods
Dimensions: 16.88" x 5.59" x 12.79" | Capsules: Vertuo | Milk frother: No | Water tank capacity: 60 oz.
The VertuoPlus perfectly balances features, price and design, making it the best Nespresso machine for most people. It's also one of the most affordable Nespresso machines out there, so it's a good entry for consumers who are interested in trying out this type of appliance.
Despite the budget-friendly price point, this coffee maker is highly functional. Because it’s part of the VertuoLine, it can make both coffee and espresso by reading the barcode on each capsule to brew the right strength and volume every time.
Choose from four drink capsules: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo and mug. Then let the machine do the work — there's nothing to think about, thanks to that automatic detection of capsule type. For a little something extra, you can always use the brand’s Aeroccino milk frother — the best milk frother we’ve tested — in tandem with the machine.
In our tests, every cup of coffee came out hot and well-rounded with a luxurious, thick crema. We also liked that there's one top-facing button that controls everything: power, rinsing and brewing. Adding to the convenience, the unit is relatively compact, the position of the water tank can be adjusted to accommodate any counter space and the lid opens and closes with one touch of the lever.
If there's any downside, it's that this Nespresso machine is only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo pods. However, this isn't unique to this particular model, as all Nespresso machines are only compatible with either the Vertuo or Original capsules.
Pros
- Makes coffee and espresso, both hot and cold
- Automatic detection of capsule type
- Automatic shut-off
Cons
- May not accommodate taller glasses
Dimensions: 8.6" x 14" x 10.4" | Capsules: Vertuo | Milk frother: No | Water tank capacity: 24.5 oz.
The Vertuo Pop+ is as fun as it sounds, coming in 11 stylish colors, such as Pacific blue, aqua mint and candy pink. The slim profile and compact size means it won't be taking up too much counter space.
It offers a choice of 5-, 8- and 12-ounce coffees as well as single or double espressos. Plus, it can accommodate XL Vertuo capsules so you can brew cold brew concentrate. One of our coffee experts also likes the iced coffee capsules, commenting they brew strong coffee that doesn't taste watered down.
In our Lab we found this machine easy to use with a removable water tank and one-touch push button to brew. Like other Vertuo models, the machine reads the barcodes on the capsules to brew at a strength and volume specific to the type of coffee inside so it's the same taste every time. In testing, an 8-ounce cup brewed in under two minutes.
After brewing, the machine automatically shuts off when idle for two minutes. The biggest drawback we found? There's not a lot of space between the brewing spout and platform, so you're limited to shorter glasses which can be an issue for a large 12-ounce drink.
Nespresso by Breville Essenza Mini
Pros
- Compact footprint
- Straightforward operation
- Makes full-bodied, creamy espresso
Cons
- Small water tank
- Louder than VertuoLine machines
Dimensions: 8" x 4.3" x 12.8" | Capsules: Original | Milk frother: No | Water tank capacity: 20.3 oz.
The tiny-but-mighty Essenza Mini Nespresso machine consistently makes quality, full-bodied espresso with a nice crema. The super-compact design (at just over four inches wide!) forgoes bells and whistles for classic pod espresso. If you're satisfied with a solid espresso or lungo (with the option to remove the drip base for a bigger cup), you won't miss much else. Not to mention, it’s a great option if you don’t have much space or want to keep things simple.
This model is part of the original line of machines, so it achieves 19 bars of pressure when brewing. This means you may find the machine a bit louder than some other models, despite its small footprint.
Perhaps the biggest sacrifice, though, is the size of the water container. It's definitely on the smaller side, but our testers didn't mind refilling it for the freshest-tasting cups.
Nespresso by Breville Creatista Plus
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Lots of brewing options
- LCD menu
Cons
- Somewhat loud while brewing
Dimensions: 6.7" x 16.1" x 12.2" | Capsules: Original | Milk frother: Yes | Water tank capacity: 50 oz.
With its classic Breville stainless steel design and matching milk jug, the Creatista Plus looks like a high-end machine — and it has the features to match. The integrated steam wand for milk frothing is perfect for making lattes and other drinks.
The Creatista Plus is part of the original line so it's only compatible with the Original capsules and not the Vertuo. Since this machine uses pressure to extract the espresso, it is louder than a Vertuo machine, but tolerable.
Our experts love this machine, especially the easy-to-scroll LCD color screen, and one of our pros uses it just about every day. We appreciate the selection of 11 different milk temperatures and eight milk froth textures. All you have to do to make the perfect hot beverage is choose your drink — ristretto, espresso, lungo, latte, cappuccino, flat white or latte macchiato — then select a size and pick a milk temperature and texture.
Overall, it's one of the more expensive Nespresso models available. But our experts say it's a fantastic pick for anyone who loves their lattes and wants reliably delicious espresso from a beautiful machine.
Nespresso Lattissima One Original Espresso Machine
Pros
- Easy to use
- Detachable milk hopper
- Compact size
Cons
- Milk frother requires disassembly to clean
Dimensions: 6.1" x 12.8" x 10.1" | Capsules: Original | Milk frother: Yes | Water tank capacity: 33.8 oz.
Cappuccino and latte fans can enjoy the ease and convenience of making their favorite drink with this Lattissima One. It offers three options including espresso, lungo and frothed milk so you can easily create a cappuccino or latte macchiato. Our experts were impressed with the milk froth container that froths the milk for you and pours it into your cup for a truly hands-off experience.
The dishwasher-safe milk container detaches from the machine for easy refilling and cleaning. Testers found the container and parts a bit difficult to clean because it requires disassembling multiple components, but the milk hopper is dishwasher-safe. The Lattissima One is simple to use with three buttons and the compact size won't take up much space.
Pros
- Makes great espresso from Nespresso original capsules
- Compact and portable
- Simple to use
Cons
- No water reservoir; must source hot water separately
- Takes a fair amount of strength to pump the device
Dimensions: 2.36" x 2.75" x 5.07" | Capsules: Original capsules | Milk frother: No | Water tank capacity: 80 ml
The Wacaco Minipresso NS2 is an excellent non-electric portable device for Nespresso on the go. According to the brand, this portable espresso maker can generate up to 18 bars of pressure with hand power alone, which is noteworthy for a manual machine. While we didn't measure the pressure in our Lab test, our experts were impressed it made a delicious espresso shot with a nice layer of crema that's typical of what you would get from a Nespresso machine.
We love the extremely compact size that's a little smaller than a soda can, so it's not going to take up too much space in a suitcase or camping bag. All you need to brew is a Nespresso Original capsule and access to hot water.
The parts nest together so you won't have to worry about losing anything. We found it takes some strength to pump the device due to the pressure so some might find it's not the best option for everyday use, but it's a great option for travelers or campers.
Other Nespresso machines we tested
• Nespresso Gran Lattissima by De'Longhi: We like that this machine offers nine drink options, including milk-based ones like lattes and cappuccinos, with one button press. However, we found the drinks lacked consistency, and the Lattissima One makes milk-based drinks at a lower price, though with fewer options.
• Nespresso Creatista Pro: The Creatista Pro lets you customize espresso volume, milk temperature and even froth level and texture. Our testers loved that they could also save their custom drink preferences. What held this machine back is that it stopped working after a few years, making it difficult to justify its $850 price tag.
How we test espresso and Nespresso machines
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab, we test Nespresso machines following a similar methodology to our espresso machine testing evaluating ease of use and performance.
While we haven't formally tested every single Nespresso machine in the Lab, our selection is a mix of the best Lab-tested machines and our road-tested top picks. Here, we prioritized machines that balance useful features with price, that are easy to set up and use, and brew consistent espresso time after time. Over the years we've used more than 300 Nespresso capsules to brew espresso or coffee.
For ease of use we assess factors such as ease of filling the water tank, using the controls, attaching or detaching accessories, cleaning and any splattering.
We time how long it takes to make a drink. We brew multiple drinks recording the temperature and volume of each one to ensure each drink is consistent, hot and the machine works well.
If the machine has a milk frother, we test it with both skim and oat milks. We assess if the foam is smooth and stable without large air bubbles.
Finally, we taste each drink to ensure each machine produces a hot and tasty coffee or espresso with crema that's silky and creamy. If the machine has a milk frother we also taste a cappuccino or latte to ensure a delicious drink.
What to look for when buying the best Nespresso machine
Before you get brewing, you'll have to decide what type of machine best suits your needs. Some models, like those in the popular VertuoLine, make both coffee and espresso. Some have built-in milk frothers for creating the perfect latte or cappuccino. Others create more crema for a well-rounded espresso. Although almost all Nespresso models are simple to use and less expensive than other espresso machines, it’s important to consider the features that fit your needs before making the investment. Here's what to keep in mind:
✔️ Original vs. VertuoLine: To understand the differences between all the Nespresso models, you must first understand the difference between how the VertuoLine and the Original series of machines operate.
- Original machines, including the Creatista Series, the Essenza, the CitiZ and the Lattissima Series, use Original Nespresso pods and produce espresso by forcing water through the top of a pod using 19 bars of pressure (much like a traditional espresso machine), eventually rupturing the foil at the bottom of the pod and allowing the espresso to flow out. Because the original machines operate more like real espresso machines, they can make espresso only, not coffee, and you should expect a more traditional level of crema. Original machines are also louder than VertuoLine machines because of this process.
- VertuoLine machines, first introduced in 2014 to appeal to the North American market, use a different technology that Nespresso likes to call “Centrifusion”: Water flows in through the top of the dome-shaped capsule (a.k.a. Nespresso's Vertuo pod), mixes with espresso grounds through centrifugal force, and then flows out through 20 punctures on the side of the capsule. As a result of this Centrifusion process, the VertuoLine machines produce espresso with a thick layer of crema, plus they also can make regular coffee.
✔️ Original capsules vs. Vertuo capsules: This is important to consider because you can’t swap pods between machine types. However, all pod types can be recycled through the Nespresso capsule recycling program. Here's the difference:
- Original pods come in only one size. They are generally easier to find, less expensive and available in more varieties and even brands, although this may change. If you’re strictly an espresso fan and prefer a traditional level of crema, the original line will likely suit your needs.
- Vertuo pods have custom barcodes that the machines read in order to automatically produce the right drink every time, making them very easy to use. Vertuo pods also come in different sizes, so your larger drinks won’t be diluted. If you’re looking to make a wide variety of coffee drinks and want a machine that’s very easy to use (and can make coffee!), a VertuoLine model is your best bet.
✔️ Milk frothers: Some Nespresso models, including the Creatista series and the Lattissima One, come with integrated steam wands for frothing milk. These are very convenient for those looking to make macchiatos, lattes, cappuccinos and other drinks with milk. However, these milk frothers can sometimes be difficult to clean and maintain. Nespresso also sells the Aeroccino, a separate milk frother that’s often bundled with their machines. If you want a café experience, you should consider choosing a model with an integrated frother. The Aeroccino doesn’t produce a “true” microfoam, but it performed great in our milk frother testing and prepares milk quickly and easily for your coffee and espresso.
✔️ Size: If you’re looking for a machine as small, powerful and refined as a shot of espresso itself, there are several compact options, including the Essenza Mini and CitiZ. These machines forgo extra features and big water reservoirs in order to remain small and lightweight. But if you want to make many drinks in a row or a larger cup of coffee for yourself, you’ll need to consider the larger models with a higher water tank capacity. Make sure the machine you choose will fit under your cabinets and suit the kind of vessel you’ll be drinking your coffee from.
✔️ Opening mechanism: Some machines like the Vertuo Pop, Essenza and Lattissima One require you to manually open them using a lever or slide handle. Other machines such as the Vertuo Plus open automatically by pressing the lever, making them slightly more convenient.
✔️ Manufacturer: Don’t be thrown off by the labels “by Breville” or “by De’Longhi” on different Nespresso models: Both companies have the rights to manufacture these machines, and neither necessarily makes a better one. The differences you’ll notice between manufacturers have more to do with design — for example, many of the Breville machines match the company’s usual stainless steel and brushed-stainless steel aesthetic.
How to use Nespresso machines
Since Nespresso’s launch in 1986, the Swiss company has developed a range of sleek automatic home coffee and espresso machines that use a patented pod-based system. To operate a Nespresso machine, simply choose your favorite pod from their coffee or espresso offerings, pop it into the machine and press a button for a drink in seconds.
Which Nespresso Vertuo is the best?
We love the Nespresso Vertuo Plus by De'Longhi which is our overall top pick for the best Nespresso machine. It's extremely easy to use and has a great price, making it great for first-time Nespresso users or those who want to purchase a new machine. It offers options for espresso or coffee with additional choices for double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto.
What is the difference between Vertuo and VertuoPlus?
The VertuoPlus is similar to the Vertuo with a few upgrades. The VertuoPlus has an adjustable water tank that swivels left, right or behind the machine, so it accommodates most counter spaces. Another handy feature: It automatically opens and closes, as well as ejects the capsule after it's finished brewing.
No matter which machine you choose, both have a computerized scanning system that reads the barcode on the Vertuo capsule and uses the Nespresso Centrifusion technology that relies on centrifugal force to brew espresso and coffee.
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Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing. She has held leading roles at both mid-size consumer goods companies and one of the most notable and largest apparel brands in the world. Jamie has contributed to several of the GH Institute Labs, including Kitchen Appliances, Media and Tech, Textiles and Home Appliances. In her free time she enjoys cooking, traveling, and working out.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.
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