Nespresso

Nespresso machine and pods

This is our main page for all things Nespresso.

Nespresso is one of the original pod machine systems. We generally avoid pod machines at Craft Coffee Spot as they rarely compete with traditional brewing systems and pods create more waste. However, we make an exception for Nespresso because it actually brews good coffee. More importantly, Nespresso has a heavy emphasis on sustainability, as it’s registered as a B-corp and makes recycling pods simple.

We covered the machines in-depth with various guides on using Nespresso, the product lineup, and the pods.

Nespresso Overview

These are the main articles to learn more about Nespresso.

  • Best Nespresso machine comparison: Our master article puts together all of our work on Nespresso. We include everything to think about before buying and our top seven choices.
  • Nespresso vs espresso: comparing the two drinks, which are similar on the surface but have some important differences. At the core, one is a pod machine and one uses coffee beans. On a deeper basis, Nespresso generally produces more of a regular dark coffee taste with extreme ease of use. Meanwhile, the espresso machine takes time to learn but can produce way richer and bold-tasting drinks.
  • Nespresso Vertuo vs Original: these are the two types of Nespresso machines. Each one has a distinct pod, which influences the taste, drink options, and cost of ownership. Make sure to review each type carefully before buying one.
  • How to clean a Nespresso machine: a guide to keeping your machine in good shape. Instructions on getting the cleaning cycle for devices and how to descale.
  • Nespresso troubleshooting: If you’re having issues with your Nespresso, this is for you. We go through common issues, including blinking red light and blinking orange light issues on Nespresso machines.

Capsule Options And Recipes

After trying nearly every type of Vertuo pod and plenty of third-party options for Original machines, here are our favorite pods:

  • Favorite Vertuo pods: Nespresso exclusively makes Vertuo pods with about 40 different options. We selected our favorite pods after a lot of testing.
  • Capsules for latte: our favorite options that pair well with milk. We’ve selected seven options that can hold a nice roasted flavor when cut with milk.
  • Iced coffee capsules: seven options that also can hold their flavor even after being diluted by ice. This article also includes our tips on making a good iced coffee with a Nespresso machine that’s built for hot coffee.
  • Where to buy Nespresso pods: there are plenty of options to buy pods, but each has a unique selection and pricing. We review 10 options, including buying direct from Nespresso, other retailers, and specialty Nespresso retailers.
  • Nespresso recipes: a list of our 12 favorite recipes based on trying different options from Nespresso and different social shares. We include a full recipe for each one.

Comparing VertuoLine Models

The VertuoLine is Nespresso’s newer line that is meant to cater to larger cup sizes. The machines are extremely easy to operate (literally one button) and use the VertuoLine pods. There are several different models which we compare

  • Nespresso Vertuo Pop review: the newest Nespresso machine on the market is a small one that has some interesting features. We tested this and compared it to the Vertuo Next and Plus.
  • Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista review: another new introduction that combines Vertuo brewing and automatic milk frothing in a premium model.
  • DeLonghi Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima review: a new model from DeLonghi that has an integrated milk frother for one-touch lattes and a range of drink options.
  • Nespresso Vertuo Next vs Plus: these are two of the newest Vertuo models and both function as good starter machines. However, there are a few functional differences and some debate over which is better. We review the key differences.
  • Nespresso Evoluo vs VertuoLine: these are the bigger models of the Vertuo category, including the largest Evoluo. We think the Evoluo is an easy call for a larger tank and capsule container.

Comparing OriginalLine Models

The OriginalLine is Nespresso’s legacy model line. These coffee machines only make espresso and lungo shots, but they can take a wider variety of pods from different manufacturers outside of Nespresso. There are several models to compare:

  • Nespresso Inissia vs Citiz: these are two popular models with the Inissia being the long-time entry-level model for Original Nespresso machines. Meanwhile, the Citiz is the newer, larger version. We review the design differences in detail.
  • Nespresso Pixie vs Essenza Mini: these are the two smaller OriginalLine machines. The Pixie has a unique handle and a larger tank, while the Essenza Mini is extremely compact. This article compares the main specs.
  • Nespresso Creatista Plus review: this is a premium Nespresso machine made by Breville. It includes an automatic steam wand for high-quality milk and several drink options. We compare all the Creatista models in this review.
  • The Nespresso Gran Lattissima review: the Gran Lattissima is DeLonghi’s premium Nespresso machine. It makes one-touch cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites with a connected milk frother.

Other Nespresso Topics

  • Comparing Nespresso Breville vs DeLonghi: you’ll notice Nespresso machines often have another brand label, typically DeLonghi or Breville. Both of these companies manufacture Nespresso machines, and they function the same, but each has subtle design and aesthetic differences. We review each Nespresso machine for both manufacturers and compare the differences.
  • Nespresso vs Dolce Gusto: Nestle makes two pod machines – Nespresso and Dolce Gusto. We do a full comparison between the two styles, and they are most different in the types of coffee brewed and price.
  • L’OR Barista Vs Nespresso: L’OR is the newest pod machine made by Philips that’s meant to bridge the gap between Nespresso types with a full range of drink options. We discuss this.
  • Aeroccino 3 vs 4: most Nespresso machines require a separate milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. We review the two common options and really like the Aeroccino 4.

Sustainability

We care about sustainability at Craft Coffee Spot and have several articles covering how to reduce waste with Nespresso machines.

  • How to recycle Nespresso pods: pod machines get a bad reputation for environmental waste. While that’s usually true, Nespresso makes it easy to recycle pods. We review the full process of recycling Nespresso pods, so everyone can reduce the environmental impact.
  • Reusable Nespresso pods: you can save on waste and cost by using Nespresso pods. We gathered the best options by machine type with tips on getting the best flavor when using them.
  • The environmental impact of coffee pods: we surveyed 2,500 people to find out how many coffee pods are thrown away each year. The numbers are staggering: only 27% recycle and enough pods are thrown away to make 2,600 airplanes! There’s also a simple way to increase recycling: make it easy. We hope this article raises awareness about the issue.

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