Espresso enthusiasts understand the significance of that perfect cup of coffee. Whether it’s a morning eye-opener, an afternoon pick-me-up, or an after-dinner decaf, the ritual of brewing and savoring espresso is sacred. However, the journey to becoming a home barista can be daunting for many. Enter Nespresso machines—automatic home coffee makers that promise convenience without compromising on quality.
With a plethora of Nespresso models available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, we put seven of the best Nespresso machines to the test. While all of them deliver exceptional espresso and coffee quality, some models come with extra features that make them stand out. Read on to discover our top picks for the best Nespresso machines in 2025.
Best Nespresso Machines Reviewed
Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville
Best Nespresso Machine Overall
The Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville is our top pick for the best overall Nespresso coffee maker. It is a simple, convenient, and consistent machine that brews both espresso and regular coffee using the newer Vertuo barcoded capsules. Here’s a detailed look at why this machine stands out.
Features and Benefits
- Affordability: Priced at around $170, it is the most affordable Nespresso machine we tested.
- Ease of Use: The VertuoPlus is extremely simple to operate, making it ideal for beginners.
- Versatile Brewing Options: It uses Vertuo barcoded capsules, allowing for a variety of drink sizes and strengths.
- Compact Design: Measuring 5.6 inches wide, 16.7 inches deep, and 12.8 inches high, it is slim enough to fit on most kitchen counters.
Detailed Review
Setting up the VertuoPlus is straightforward. The 40-ounce water tank can be positioned to fit your space (to the right, left, or straight back), and the four-position drip tray/cup holder is adjustable. After running a rinse cycle, the machine is ready to use.
Brewing with the VertuoPlus is a breeze. Insert a Vertuo capsule, tap the button to heat (which takes about 30 seconds), and your coffee is ready in seconds. The used capsule is automatically ejected into a container that holds up to 13 used pods.
The VertuoPlus delivers consistent coffee quality with a thick crema foam on top. It offers various brewing options, including 1.35-ounce espressos, 2.7-ounce double espressos, 5-ounce Gran Lungos, and 8-ounce coffees.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to use.
- Consistent coffee quality.
- Versatile brewing options.
Cons:
- Not the quietest machine.
- Vertuo capsules are more expensive than Original capsules.
Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima by De’Longhi
Best Nespresso Machine with a Milk Frother
If you enjoy milk-based coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima by De’Longhi is the perfect choice. With its built-in frother and intuitive design, it allows you to create coffee shop-style drinks at home with ease.
Features and Benefits
- Built-in Milk Frother: The 16-ounce built-in frother is perfect for making lattes, cappuccinos, and latte macchiatos.
- User-Friendly Design: The machine is easy to set up and operate, with a clear and intuitive display.
- Stylish Appearance: Available in matte black or matte white and black, it looks modern and stylish.
Detailed Review
Setting up the Vertuo Lattissima is similar to other Nespresso Vertuo machines. The built-in frother adds to its appeal, allowing you to select preprogrammed drinks with ease. We tested various milk types (whole, 2%, and almond) and found that 2% milk works best for frothing.
To make a milk-based drink, fill the milk carafe, place it on the machine, select your preference setting, and press the coffee button. The machine heats up in about 30 seconds, and the frother works its magic, producing a lovely, light foam.
The Vertuo Lattissima includes a self-cleaning function for the milk spout, and the frother parts are dishwasher-safe. The machine’s size is reasonable, measuring 16 inches deep by 7.5 inches wide by 12.4 inches high.
Pros:
- Built-in frother for convenience.
- Clear and intuitive display.
- Self-cleaning function for the frother.
Cons:
- More expensive than the VertuoPlus.
- Capsules are still pricey.
Nespresso Vertuo Creatista by Breville
Best Splurge Nespresso Machine
For those willing to invest in a high-end coffee maker, the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista by Breville is the ultimate choice. This luxurious machine can turn your kitchen into a high-end barista counter.
Features and Benefits
- Premium Design: The stainless steel model looks like it belongs in a fancy coffee shop.
- Integrated Milk Wand: The milk wand allows for professional-level frothing.
- Intuitive LED Display: The display makes it easy to navigate and customize your drinks.
Detailed Review
The Vertuo Creatista’s premium design and features make it a standout. It offers milk frothing options, including caffe latte, cappuccino, flat white, and latte macchiato, with adjustable milk and texture levels.
To make a milk drink, pour milk into the included stainless steel pitcher, place it under the wand, and select your temperature and froth level. The machine then froths the milk and brews the coffee simultaneously. The integrated steam wand is easy to clean, as it automatically purges after each use.
This machine handles single and double espressos, as well as 5-, 8-, 12-, and 18-ounce coffees. It’s slightly larger than other models, measuring 9.6 inches by 16.4 inches by 12.7 inches and weighing 15 pounds.
Pros:
- High-end design and features.
- Integrated milk wand for professional frothing.
- Intuitive LED display.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Takes up more counter space.
What is a Nespresso Machine, and How is Nespresso Different?
Since 1986, Nespresso has been offering single-serve machines that use aluminum pods filled with finely ground beans to deliver espresso and coffee drinks. Nespresso machines are known for their convenience and consistency, producing crema-topped brews that have garnered a loyal following.
Nespresso coffee is generally more flavorful than what you get from a Keurig-style machine. It is stronger than drip coffee but not as concentrated as espresso from a traditional espresso machine. Nespresso machines use a thermoblock system rather than a boiler, allowing them to heat up quickly (in just three to 30 seconds) and deliver consistent results.
Nespresso works with manufacturers like Breville and De’Longhi to produce machines that use two distinct capsule varieties: Original and Vertuo. Original capsules typically brew smaller drinks like ristrettos and espressos, while Vertuo capsules use barcode technology to brew a range of drink sizes, from espressos to 14-ounce coffees.
Nespresso capsules are more expensive than most K-Cups, costing between $0.80 and $1.65 each. However, investing in a Nespresso machine can save coffee lovers money in the long run by reducing the need for coffee shop visits.
Testing Methodology
To determine the best Nespresso machines, we evaluated each model over several weeks, focusing on design, functionality, and durability. Here’s how we conducted our tests:
Design and Functionality
We assessed each machine’s design, including its size, weight, and overall appearance. We noted the materials used, such as stainless steel or plastic, and evaluated the build quality. We also examined the user interface, noting the number of buttons, display functionality, and ease of use.
Brew Function
We tested each machine’s brewing capabilities, including:
- Optimal Temperature: While we didn’t measure the exact temperature, we noted the perceived heat and consistency of each brew.
- Taste: We used consistent capsule varieties across machines to compare taste.
- Time to Brew: We timed the heating and brewing process using a stopwatch.
- User-Friendliness: We evaluated how intuitive each machine was to use, from unboxing to brewing.
- Volume Yield: We recorded the ounces and styles each machine could brew.
- Special Features: We noted any additional features, such as app accessibility.
Durability
We assessed each machine’s durability by examining how sturdy it felt and how well it handled regular use. We noted how easy it was to remove, fill, and attach the water and capsule containers.
Setup and Breakdown
We observed how long it took to unbox, assemble, and rinse each machine before the first use. We also evaluated how easy it was to clean and maintain the machines.
Warranty
We recorded the warranty included with each machine to help consumers understand the long-term investment.
Other Nespresso Machines We Tested
Instant Pot Dual Pod Plus Coffee Maker
For those who appreciate versatility, the Instant Pot Dual Pod Plus Coffee Maker is an excellent option. It is compatible with K-Cup pods, Original Nespresso pods, and ground coffee, making it a versatile choice for households with diverse coffee preferences.
Detailed Review
The Instant Pot Dual Pod Plus is easy to use and allows you to adjust your brew strength. It accommodates 8-, 10-, and 12-ounce K-Cups and 2-, 4-, and 6-ounce Nespresso pods. However, when using Nespresso capsules, the Instant Pot delivered a slightly more watery, less hot drink with less crema than the Nespresso-specific machines.
This model is larger than other Nespresso machines, but its unique versatility makes it worth considering. It has a large 68-ounce water reservoir and an adjustable drip tray to accommodate different mug sizes.
Pros:
- Versatile with K-Cup, Nespresso pods, and ground coffee compatibility.
- Adjustable brew strength.
Cons:
- Larger size.
- Slightly less quality with Nespresso pods.
Nespresso Inissia by De’Longhi
For those with limited space, the Nespresso Inissia by De’Longhi is a compact and affordable option. It is the smallest machine we tested, making it ideal for small kitchens or offices.
Detailed Review
The Inissia measures 4.7 inches wide by 12.6 inches high by 9 inches deep and weighs just over 5 pounds. Its unique style involves lifting a handle to push the lever back, inserting an Original capsule, and pulling the handle back down. Initially, we had trouble puncturing the capsule correctly, but subsequent attempts worked fine.
Despite its lightweight and plastic construction, the Inissia brews two sizes: 1.35-ounce espresso and 5-ounce lungo. It has an adjustable drip tray, a 23-ounce water tank, and a descaling cycle.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight.
- Affordable.
Cons:
- Initial difficulty with capsule insertion.
- Plastic construction feels less durable.
Nespresso Creatista Plus by Breville
The Nespresso Creatista Plus by Breville is a high-end model for those who prefer Nespresso Original pods. It offers an intuitive high-res LCD display and advanced milk frothing capabilities.
Detailed Review
The Creatista Plus has an integrated steam wand and a stainless steel milk pitcher, with 11 milk temperature settings and eight froth levels. It is slightly smaller than the Vertuo Creatista, measuring 15.4 inches by 12 inches by 6.7 inches with a 50.7-ounce water tank.
This model features automatic purging of the steam wand and a descaling alarm. While it’s a dream to use and looks beautiful, the Vertuo Creatista offers similar results at a lower price, making the Lattissima a more economical choice.
Pros:
- High-end design and features.
- Advanced milk frothing options.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Similar results can be achieved with less costly models.
Nespresso Essenza Plus by Breville
For those who prefer Nespresso’s Original line, the Essenza Plus by Breville is a compact and versatile choice. It takes up minimal counter space and is light enough to store easily.
Detailed Review
The Essenza Plus allows for water volume adjustment and can be paired with the Nespresso app for customizable recipes and maintenance alerts. It is ideal for espresso enthusiasts who prefer smaller drinks like ristrettos and espressos.
Pros:
- Compact and light.
- App compatibility for advanced features.
Cons:
- Limited to Nespresso Original capsules.
- Smaller drink sizes may not appeal to all users.
Conclusion
After rigorous testing, the Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville emerged as the best overall Nespresso machine for its affordability, ease of use, and consistent coffee quality. For those who enjoy milk-based drinks, the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima by De’Longhi is the best option with its built-in frother. If you’re willing to splurge, the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista by Breville offers a high-end experience with professional-level features.
Nespresso machines offer convenience and quality, making them a great investment for coffee lovers. Whether you prefer espresso or regular coffee, there’s a Nespresso machine to suit your needs.
Additional Information
Nespresso is committed to sustainability and offers a recycling program for both Original and Vertuo capsules. Used aluminum capsules can be dropped off at collection points, Nespresso stores, or partner stores, or sent through a UPS mail-in program at no cost.
For more information on coffee makers, check out our related articles on the best pour-over and cold brew coffee makers of 2025.
