The allure of a perfect espresso shot to kickstart your day is undeniable, but limited kitchen space can often feel like a barrier. Nespresso has revolutionized at-home coffee, and their compact models offer a brilliant solution for modern living.
However, navigating the vast array of options can be overwhelming. This guide is designed to simplify your search for the best small nespresso machines, focusing on the crucial factors that separate a good appliance from a great one.
Making an informed choice is essential to ensure you receive consistent quality, excellent convenience, and long-term value from your investment. We are here to help you identify the best small nespresso machines that will perfectly fit both your countertop and your lifestyle, delivering delicious coffee for years to come.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Small Nespresso Machines Compared
π BEST OVERALL Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
- Extremely compact and lightweight design, ideal for limited counter space.
- Very fast 25-second heat-up time for quick coffee preparation.
- Simple one-touch operation with two programmable cup sizes.
- Energy-saving automatic shut-off feature enhances safety and efficiency.
4.3/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi
- Very compact and lightweight design, ideal for small spaces.
- Heats up quickly, in under 30 seconds.
- Simple one-touch operation with programmable buttons.
- High 19-bar pressure pump for quality espresso.
4.5/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi
- Extremely easy to use with one-touch operation.
- Smart technology reads barcodes for consistent, optimized brewing.
- Includes a complimentary set of capsules to sample different coffees.
- Brews both espresso and standard-sized coffee.
4.6/5
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Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
- Very compact, space-saving design ideal for small kitchens.
- Extremely fast heat-up time of only 25 seconds.
- Simple and intuitive one-touch operation for Espresso and Lungo.
- High-pressure 19-bar pump for consistent coffee extraction.
4.6/5
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Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker by
- Simple one-touch operation for quick and easy brewing.
- Versatile enough to prepare both hot and iced coffee drinks.
- Convenient features like automatic capsule ejection and power-off.
- Provides consistent coffee quality with every use.
4.7/5
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Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
- Two programmable buttons for custom espresso and lungo volumes.
- Folding drip tray accommodates a variety of cup and mug sizes.
- Compact and user-friendly design suitable for small spaces.
- Automatic drip tray helps keep counter surfaces clean.
4.7/5
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CASABREWS CM7036E Espresso Machine for Nespresso Original Pods
- Four customizable brew sizes offer great versatility.
- Very compact and slim design is ideal for small spaces.
- Fast heat-up and brew time of around 25 seconds.
- Simple to operate and features easy-to-clean removable parts.
4.4/5
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Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville
- Brews both standard coffee and espresso.
- Fast 25-second heat-up time for quick preparation.
- Four programmable cup sizes for versatility.
- Large 40 oz water reservoir minimizes refills.
4.7/5
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Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
- Compact design is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Brews a wide variety of coffee sizes (5, 8, 12oz) plus single and double espressos.
- Very simple to use with one-touch operation and fast heat-up.
- Access to a large selection of Nespresso Vertuo coffee blends.
4.4/5
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Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville
- Very compact design is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Versatile brewing with five different cup sizes, suitable for hot or iced coffee.
- Simple one-touch operation and a quick 30-second heat-up time.
- Consistently produces a smooth brew with a thick, velvety crema.
4.3/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Small Nespresso Machines
Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville – Extremely compact and lightweight design, ideal for limited counter space.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a solid choice for anyone seeking a straightforward and compact espresso solution. Its primary advantage is its incredibly small footprint, making it an excellent fit for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms. The machine is very user-friendly, heating up in under 30 seconds and brewing a consistent shot of espresso with a single button press.
It offers two programmable cup sizes (Espresso and Lungo), which covers the basics effectively. The automatic shut-off feature is a practical addition for both energy savings and peace of mind. While it lacks advanced features like a milk frother, it excels at its core function: making good espresso quickly and without fuss.
The included starter pack of capsules is a nice bonus, allowing you to sample different varieties right out of the box. It reliably delivers the quality expected from the Nespresso system.
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight design, ideal for limited counter space.
- Very fast 25-second heat-up time for quick coffee preparation.
- Simple one-touch operation with two programmable cup sizes.
- Energy-saving automatic shut-off feature enhances safety and efficiency.
- Consistently produces quality espresso shots.
- Includes a complimentary starter set of capsules.
Cons
- Reliance on capsules can be more expensive than using ground coffee.
- The small size means a smaller water tank and used capsule container, requiring more frequent attention.
Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by DeLonghi – Very compact and lightweight design, ideal for small spaces.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a solid choice for anyone seeking a straightforward, compact espresso maker. Its main selling point is its small footprint, which is perfect for smaller kitchens or office spaces. Operation is incredibly simple with its two programmable buttons for Espresso and Lungo shots.
The machine heats up in under 30 seconds, making it very convenient for a quick morning coffee. The 19-bar pressure pump delivers consistent, crema-topped espresso, living up to the Nespresso standard. The included welcome kit is a nice touch, allowing you to sample different flavors right away.
The 20.3 oz water tank is on the smaller side, requiring more frequent refills if you make multiple drinks daily, but this is an expected trade-off for its compact size.
Pros
- Very compact and lightweight design, ideal for small spaces.
- Heats up quickly, in under 30 seconds.
- Simple one-touch operation with programmable buttons.
- High 19-bar pressure pump for quality espresso.
- Energy-saving feature with auto-off after 9 minutes.
- Includes a complimentary Nespresso capsule welcome kit.
Cons
- The 20.3 oz water tank is small and requires frequent refilling.
- Only compatible with Nespresso Original line capsules.
Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi – Extremely easy to use with one-touch operation.
The Nespresso VertuoPlus is a solid entry into the world of single-serve coffee and espresso. Its main selling point is its simplicity and consistency. The machine uses a barcode-reading technology to automatically adjust brewing parameters like temperature and volume for each specific Vertuo capsule, which takes the guesswork out of the process.
Setup is straightforward, and the one-touch operation makes it incredibly easy to use for a quick morning coffee. The included welcome kit is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to sample a variety of coffee profiles before committing to a full sleeve. While the design is modern and fits well in most kitchens, its performance is what stands out.
It consistently produces a smooth cup with a signature thick crema, whether you’re making a small espresso shot or a larger mug of coffee. Itβs a reliable machine built for convenience.
Pros
- Extremely easy to use with one-touch operation.
- Smart technology reads barcodes for consistent, optimized brewing.
- Includes a complimentary set of capsules to sample different coffees.
- Brews both espresso and standard-sized coffee.
- Modern design with a motorized brew head.
Cons
- Only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which can be more expensive than other pods.
- The machine has a slightly larger footprint than some other single-serve brewers.
Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine by De’Longhi – Very compact, space-saving design ideal for small kitchens.
This espresso machine is a strong performer for those with limited counter space. Its ultra-compact design is its most significant feature, fitting easily into small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office environments. The performance is impressive for its size, boasting a 19-bar pump that ensures proper espresso extraction and a rapid 25-second heat-up time, which is perfect for busy mornings.
Operation is incredibly simple with two programmable one-touch buttons for Espresso and Lungo shots. The machine feels well-built and the drop-stop technology helps keep the brewing area clean. The automatic power-off feature is a practical addition for both energy conservation and safety.
While it locks you into the Nespresso Original capsule system, the convenience and consistency it offers are undeniable. The included starter capsule set is a nice bonus, allowing you to sample different flavors right away.
Pros
- Very compact, space-saving design ideal for small kitchens.
- Extremely fast heat-up time of only 25 seconds.
- Simple and intuitive one-touch operation for Espresso and Lungo.
- High-pressure 19-bar pump for consistent coffee extraction.
- Energy-saving mode with automatic shut-off after 9 minutes.
Cons
- Exclusively compatible with Nespresso Original line capsules, limiting coffee options.
- The compact size likely means a small water reservoir and used capsule container, requiring frequent maintenance.
Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker by – Simple one-touch operation for quick and easy brewing.
This Nespresso machine delivers on its promise of convenience and simplicity for home coffee brewing. The single-button operation makes it incredibly easy to use, producing a consistent cup of coffee or espresso with minimal effort. It handles different coffee styles well, accommodating preferences for both hot and iced beverages.
A nice inclusion is the complimentary starter set of capsules, which lets you sample different flavors right away. The automatic features, such as capsule ejection after brewing and the energy-saving auto-off function, add to the overall user-friendly experience. The machine feels well-suited for busy individuals who want a quality coffee drink without the complexity of a manual espresso maker.
While it relies on the Nespresso pod system, the performance is reliable and the process is clean and efficient from start to finish. Itβs a straightforward appliance that gets the job done well.
Pros
- Simple one-touch operation for quick and easy brewing.
- Versatile enough to prepare both hot and iced coffee drinks.
- Convenient features like automatic capsule ejection and power-off.
- Provides consistent coffee quality with every use.
- Includes a complimentary starter pack of Nespresso capsules.
Cons
- Requires the use of proprietary Nespresso capsules, which can be an ongoing expense.
- Limited to the coffee blends and brands available within the Nespresso ecosystem.
Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine by De’Longhi – Two programmable buttons for custom espresso and lungo volumes.
This coffee machine offers a solid, straightforward experience for daily espresso and lungo drinkers. Its main strengths lie in its user-friendly design and thoughtful features. The two programmable buttons for espresso and lungo sizes are convenient, allowing you to set your preferred volume once and enjoy consistent results.
A particularly useful feature is the folding drip tray, which easily accommodates taller travel mugs or glasses for iced recipes, a detail often overlooked in compact machines. The tray also cleverly drops back into place to catch any post-brew drips, which helps keep the countertop clean. While it’s a very capable machine for its intended purpose, its simplicity means it lacks advanced features like milk frothing.
The repeated emphasis on consulting the user manual suggests that taking a few minutes to understand the programming functions is recommended to get the most out of the appliance from the start.
Pros
- Two programmable buttons for custom espresso and lungo volumes.
- Folding drip tray accommodates a variety of cup and mug sizes.
- Compact and user-friendly design suitable for small spaces.
- Automatic drip tray helps keep counter surfaces clean.
- Simple operation for quick, consistent coffee.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like a built-in milk frother.
- Programming custom shot volumes might require referencing the user manual.
CASABREWS CM7036E Espresso Machine for Nespresso Original Pods – Four customizable brew sizes offer great versatility.
This espresso machine is a capable and convenient option for users of Nespresso Original capsules. The standout feature is its four distinct brew sizesβRistretto, Espresso, Lungo, and Americanoβproviding excellent versatility for different coffee preferences. It operates quickly, heating up and brewing in under 30 seconds, and the 20-bar pump consistently produces a decent crema.
The ultra-slim design is a significant advantage for anyone with limited counter space, fitting easily into small kitchens or office environments. Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the removable components and the helpful descaling reminder. The auto-off energy-saving mode is also a practical touch.
It’s important to note that this machine is strictly for Nespresso Original pods and will not work with other capsule types, which is a key consideration before purchasing.
Pros
- Four customizable brew sizes offer great versatility.
- Very compact and slim design is ideal for small spaces.
- Fast heat-up and brew time of around 25 seconds.
- Simple to operate and features easy-to-clean removable parts.
- Includes helpful features like descaling alerts and an auto-off timer.
Cons
- Exclusively compatible with Nespresso Original line capsules.
- The 21oz water tank might require frequent refills for multiple users.
Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville – Brews both standard coffee and espresso.
The Nespresso Vertuo offers a straightforward solution for single-serve coffee and espresso. Its primary appeal is the simplicity of brewing different drinks with a single button press. The machine heats up in under 30 seconds, which is great for busy mornings, and the automatic shut-off is a useful energy-saving feature.
It accommodates four distinct cup sizes, from a single espresso to an 8oz coffee, providing good versatility. The large 40-ounce water tank is a practical design choice, reducing the frequency of refills. While the machine itself is easy to operate, its reliance on specific Nespresso Vertuo pods is a key factor to consider.
The included starter set of capsules is a nice touch, allowing you to sample different blends right away. Overall, it’s a solid performer for those seeking convenience and variety in their daily coffee routine without much fuss.
Pros
- Brews both standard coffee and espresso.
- Fast 25-second heat-up time for quick preparation.
- Four programmable cup sizes for versatility.
- Large 40 oz water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Simple one-touch operation.
- Includes a complimentary starter set of capsules.
Cons
- Only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which can be costly.
- Does not accommodate third-party pods or reusable filters.
Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi – Compact design is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
The Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ is a well-designed machine for those with limited counter space. Its main appeal is the versatility, offering five different drink sizes from a single espresso up to a 12oz coffee, which is great for different preferences. The one-touch operation and quick 30-second heat-up time make it incredibly convenient for a fast morning routine.
The brewing technology consistently produces a smooth coffee with a signature layer of foam, or ‘crema’. The 25 oz water tank is easily accessible on the side, though it may require frequent refilling for heavy users. Itβs important to note that this machine is exclusively compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, but the included tasting pack provides a good introduction to the wide range of blends available.
The capsule recycling program is a welcome feature for sustainability-minded consumers.
Pros
- Compact design is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Brews a wide variety of coffee sizes (5, 8, 12oz) plus single and double espressos.
- Very simple to use with one-touch operation and fast heat-up.
- Access to a large selection of Nespresso Vertuo coffee blends.
- Capsules are made from aluminum and are fully recyclable through Nespresso’s program.
Cons
- The 25 oz water tank is relatively small and may require frequent refilling.
- Machine is only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, limiting coffee brand options.
Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville – Very compact design is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
The Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ offers a convenient and high-quality coffee experience, particularly for those with limited counter space. Its compact design is a significant plus, fitting easily into small kitchens or office nooks. The machine is incredibly user-friendly with its one-touch system and fast 30-second heat-up time.
It provides excellent versatility, brewing five different coffee sizes, from single espresso shots to a 12oz cup, with options for both hot and iced beverages. The brewing technology consistently delivers a smooth coffee topped with Nespresso’s signature rich crema. While the side-mounted 25 oz water tank is easy to access, it may require frequent refilling for households with multiple coffee drinkers.
The machine is also exclusively compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which is a key consideration regarding ongoing cost and availability. Overall, it’s a stylish and efficient machine that delivers on its promise of simple, quality coffee.
Pros
- Very compact design is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Versatile brewing with five different cup sizes, suitable for hot or iced coffee.
- Simple one-touch operation and a quick 30-second heat-up time.
- Consistently produces a smooth brew with a thick, velvety crema.
- Features a free and accessible capsule recycling program.
Cons
- The 25 oz water reservoir is relatively small and may require frequent refilling.
- Locked into using proprietary Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which can be costly.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Small Nespresso Machines
Size and Footprint
When searching for the best small nespresso machines, the primary consideration is a compact design. Models like the Nespresso Essenza Mini and Nespresso Pixie are specifically praised for being extremely compact and lightweight, making them perfect for kitchens with limited counter space, dorm rooms, or offices. The Vertuo Pop+ and CASABREWS models also feature slim designs that save valuable space. Always check the product dimensions to ensure it will fit perfectly in your intended location.
OriginalLine vs. VertuoLine
Nespresso offers two distinct systems, both available in compact models. The OriginalLine machines, such as the Essenza Mini, Pixie, and Inissia, use a high-pressure 19-bar pump to brew traditional espresso and lungo shots. The VertuoLine, including the Vertuo Plus, Vertuo Next, and Vertuo Pop+, uses a unique barcode-reading technology to brew a wider range of sizes, from single espresso shots to full-sized cups of coffee, making them more versatile for different coffee preferences.
Key Performance Features
Look for features that enhance speed and quality. Many of the best small nespresso machines, including the Essenza Mini and Pixie, boast an impressive heat-up time of just 25-30 seconds, allowing for nearly instant coffee preparation. High 19-bar pressure, found in models like the Pixie and De’Longhi Essenza Mini, is crucial for creating authentic espresso with a rich crema. Also, consider the water tank capacity; the Vertuo Plus, for example, has a larger 40 oz reservoir to minimize refills.
Ease of Use and Convenience
Simplicity is a hallmark of Nespresso. Nearly all models feature simple one-touch operation. Look for programmable buttons, found on the Essenza Mini and Inissia, which allow you to customize your espresso and lungo volumes. Other convenient features include automatic power-off for energy savings, folding drip trays to accommodate larger mugs (as seen on the Inissia), and helpful descaling alerts offered by the CASABREWS machine to simplify maintenance and ensure long-term performance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Small Nespresso Machines
Which is the most compact Nespresso machine available?
Based on the product information, the Nespresso Essenza Mini by both Breville and De’Longhi is highlighted as an “extremely compact and lightweight” option, making it an ideal choice for those with severely limited counter space. The Nespresso Pixie is also noted for its very compact, space-saving design. Both models are excellent contenders if your absolute top priority is saving space, as they are specifically engineered to deliver quality espresso from the smallest possible footprint.
What is the main difference between Original and Vertuo machines?
The primary difference lies in the brewing technology and coffee variety. OriginalLine machines, like the Essenza Mini and Pixie, use a high-pressure pump system to create traditional espresso and lungo shots. VertuoLine machines, such as the Vertuo Pop+ and Vertuo Plus, use a barcode-reading system and centrifugation to brew a wider range of sizes, from espresso to a full 12oz coffee. Your choice depends on whether you prefer classic espresso or desire more size versatility.
Can small Nespresso machines make a regular-sized cup of coffee?
Yes, but only if you choose a model from the VertuoLine. Machines like the Nespresso Vertuo Pop+, Vertuo Plus, and Vertuo Next are specifically designed to be versatile. They can brew both single and double espresso shots as well as larger, standard-sized cups of coffee (e.g., 5oz, 8oz, 12oz). OriginalLine models like the Essenza Mini or Pixie are designed exclusively for smaller espresso and lungo-style drinks and cannot brew a full mug of coffee.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Essenza Mini is an excellent machine for its intended purpose of providing simple, fast, and consistent Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville espresso. It is highly recommended for individuals with limited space or anyone who values convenience and speed over customization options.