6 Best Nespresso Machines [Updated With June 2025 Models]

You know that feeling when you're standing in line at your favorite coffee shop, watching your bank account drain $6 at a time? Yeah, I've been there too. That's exactly why I decided to dive deep into the world of Nespresso machines. After testing more machines than I care to admit (my kitchen looked like a mini coffee shop for weeks!), I'm here to share what I've learned.

I'll be honest - I was skeptical at first. Could a pod machine really deliver that café-quality espresso I'd grown addicted to? Spoiler alert: I'm now a total convert, and my wallet's thanking me for it.

Machine	Price	Best For	Coffee Types	Milk Frother
CitiZ & Milk	$319	Best Overall	Espresso & Lungo	Built-in
VertuoPlus Deluxe	$169	Versatility	Coffee & Espresso	Optional
Gran Lattissima	$399	Milk Drinks	9 Drink Types	Built-in
Essenza Mini	$119	Small Spaces	Espresso & Lungo	Optional
Vertuo Pop+	$129	Budget Pick	Coffee & Espresso	No
Creatista Plus	$527	Pro Features	Espresso & Lungo	Steam Wand

6 Best Nespresso Machines 2025: Detailed Reviews

1. Nespresso CitiZ & Milk Frother - My Top Overall Pick

I've been using the CitiZ for about six months now, and let me tell you - this machine has completely changed my morning routine. What really sold me was the whisper-quiet milk frother. I'm talking library-quiet here, folks. My partner can sleep through my 5 AM latte-making sessions, which is basically a miracle.

The design is sleek and inspired by 1940s NYC architecture (fancy, right?), but what I really love is how foolproof it is. Two buttons - espresso and lungo. That's it. No complicated menus or settings to fumble with when you're half-asleep.

What I Love:

• Heats up in just 25 seconds (I timed it!)
• The attached milk frother works with both dairy and oat milk
• Makes barista-style drinks without the barista price tag
• Compact enough for my tiny apartment kitchen

What Could Be Better:

• The water tank needs refilling pretty often if you're a heavy coffee drinker like me
• It's an Original line machine, so you're limited to espresso-style drinks

2. Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe - Best for Coffee Lovers

This was actually my first Nespresso machine, and I still keep it around because it's just so darn versatile. Unlike the Original line machines, this baby can brew both espresso AND regular coffee. Game changer for when my in-laws visit (they're not espresso people).

The barcode scanning technology sounds gimmicky, but it's actually brilliant. Each pod has a barcode that tells the machine exactly how to brew it. No guesswork, no settings to adjust - just pop in a pod and press the button.

What I Love:

• Makes 5 different cup sizes (from espresso to 14oz coffee)
• The 60oz water tank is HUGE - perfect for entertaining
• Moveable water tank fits any counter configuration
• That crema! It's like a coffee shop in my kitchen

What Could Be Better:

• Takes about a minute to brew (slower than Original machines)
• Vertuo pods are pricier and you can't use third-party options

3. Nespresso Gran Lattissima - The Luxury Choice

Okay, I'll admit it - this one's a splurge. But if you're serious about your milk-based drinks, it's worth every penny. I tested this at a friend's house (lucky friend, right?), and I was blown away by how it can make NINE different drinks automatically.

The milk system is next-level. It's got a detachable milk container you can pop in the fridge between uses, and it creates the silkiest microfoam I've ever gotten from a home machine. We're talking café-quality cappuccinos here, people.

What I Love:

• One-touch lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites
• Lightning-fast brewing (15 seconds for espresso!)
• Self-cleaning milk system (thank goodness)
• LED display makes it super easy to use

What Could Be Better:

• It's expensive (but you get what you pay for)
• Takes up more counter space than other models
• Milk container needs cleaning after every few uses

4. Nespresso Essenza Mini - Best for Small Spaces

When I moved into my studio apartment, counter space became precious real estate. Enter the Essenza Mini - this little powerhouse is only 3.3 inches wide! Don't let the size fool you though; it still packs that 19-bar pressure for authentic espresso.

I've had mine for over a year now, and it's been rock solid. Sure, it's basic - just two cup sizes and no built-in frother - but sometimes simple is exactly what you need.

What I Love:

• Tiny footprint (seriously, it fits anywhere)
• Comes in fun colors (I got the ruby red)
• Heats up in 25 seconds
• Super affordable for a Nespresso

What Could Be Better:

• Small water tank (20.3 oz) means frequent refills
• Capsule container only holds 6 pods
• You'll need a separate milk frother for lattes

5. Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ - The Budget Champion

At this price point, I wasn't expecting much. Boy, was I wrong! The Vertuo Pop+ delivers way more than its price tag suggests. It's perfect if you're Nespresso-curious but not ready to drop serious cash.

Yes, it's louder than the pricier models (my cat definitely notices), and yes, it's pretty basic. But for making a quick espresso or a decent cup of coffee? It absolutely gets the job done.

What I Love:

• Can't beat the price
• Makes both espresso and 12oz coffee
• Compact and lightweight (8 pounds)
• 30-second heat-up time

What Could Be Better:

• It's noticeably louder when brewing
• Smaller water tank (25.4 oz)
• No milk frothing options

6. Nespresso Creatista Plus - For the Home Barista

This is the machine for coffee snobs (I mean that in the best way possible). With 11 milk temperature settings and 8 texture levels, you can dial in your perfect latte. The steam wand lets you practice your latte art, and the 3-second heat-up time is just insane.

I tested this at a Williams Sonoma demo, and while I loved playing barista, I realized I'm too lazy for this level of customization in my daily routine. But if you're the type who enjoys the ritual of coffee making? This is your machine.

What I Love:

• Professional-grade steam wand
• 3-second heat-up time (fastest I've seen)
• Stainless steel design looks stunning
• Digital display with custom drink settings

What Could Be Better:

• Most expensive option
• Requires more skill to master
• Overkill for casual coffee drinkers

Original vs. Vertuo: Which Line Should You Choose?

After testing both lines extensively, here's my take:

Go with Original if you:

• Love espresso-based drinks
• Want to use third-party pods (saves money!)
• Prefer faster brewing times
• Need a milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos

Go with Vertuo if you:

• Want both coffee and espresso options
• Don't mind paying more for pods
• Like the convenience of barcode scanning
• Prefer larger coffee servings

My Honest Tips for Buying a Nespresso Machine

1. Think about your daily coffee habits. I made the mistake of buying a Vertuo first when I really only drink espresso. Know yourself!
2. Factor in the pod costs. Original pods run about $0.80 each, while Vertuo pods are $1-1.25. It adds up!
3. Consider your counter space. I learned this the hard way in my tiny kitchen. Measure first, buy second.
4. Don't skimp on the milk frother if you love lattes. Trust me, the Aeroccino is worth it if your machine doesn't have one built-in.
5. Check for deals. I've seen these machines go on sale during Black Friday and Prime Day. Patience pays!

Final Words

After all my testing (and way too much caffeine), I keep coming back to the CitiZ & Milk Frother as my top pick. It hits that sweet spot of quality, convenience, and price. But honestly? Any of these machines will revolutionize your morning coffee routine.

I've calculated that my CitiZ paid for itself in just 2 months compared to my old coffee shop habit. Now, instead of rushing out for my morning fix, I'm enjoying barista-quality espresso in my pajamas. And let's be real - that's the dream, isn't it?

Whether you're a espresso purist, a latte lover, or just someone who needs their caffeine fix ASAP, there's a Nespresso machine on this list that'll make you wonder why you waited so long to make the switch.

Have questions about any of these machines? Drop me a comment - I've probably tried every pod flavor and milk frothing technique at this point, so I'm happy to share what I've learned!