Our top picks from Breville, De'Longhi and Vertuo make delicious espresso and lattes.
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Love barista-style coffee but don't have $1,000 or the counter space for a professional setup? Good news: You can make coffee-based drinks — an iced latte, cappuccino or double shot of espresso — from the comfort of your home with a Nespresso machine.
But with over a dozen different Nespresso machines currently on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to buy — that's where The Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab comes into play. When testing and evaluating Nespresso machines, we considered ease of use, brewing time, consistency, noise level and taste.
We've spent decades testing kitchen appliances and coffee makers, including drip coffee makers, single-serve coffee machines, French press coffee makers, latte machines, cold brew coffee makers and coffee makers with grinders to help you make the best cup of coffee at home. Our recommendations for the best Nespresso machines reflect models our analysts and editors have tested in the Lab or tried out at home, as well as options that caught our eye because of new and unique features that we look for in all espresso machines and coffee makers.
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, making it a good entry for consumers who are interested in trying out this type of appliance.
Despite the budget-friendly price point, this appliance is highly functional. Because it’s part of the VertuoLine, it can make both coffee and espresso, and it uses barcodes on each specially-designed capsule to brew the right strength and volume every time. Choose from five drink types: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto. 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 — but this isn't unique to this particular model, as the different types of pods aren't interchangeable.
From the makers of the Instant Pot comes this brand-neutral pod espresso machine that is compatible with both original Nespresso pods and Keurig pods, also known as K-cups. Users love the Instant Pod’s one-touch programs for six different brew sizes and its hulking 68-ounce water reservoir, since it minimizes the amount of trips you have to make to the sink. The appliance also offers an energy-saving auto-shutoff that kicks in after 30 minutes of inactivity.
Despite its versatility, it's a simple and affordable machine with a basic black aesthetic. It's also easy to clean — there's no special rinsing process — making it a solid choice for offices where people may want to brew different kinds of coffee but don't have the resources to maintain something fancier. It also has a compact footprint that makes it ideal for apartments, RVs and other small spaces. If there's any downside, it's that some say the machine is sometimes tricky to close and remove pods.
The small-but-mighty Essenza Mini is a Nespresso machine in its purest form: It's a compact and affordable appliance that makes a quality espresso. With each use, the machine consistently spits out a good, full-bodied espresso with a nice crema. The super-compact option (it's 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. On the upside, the machine does have an energy-saving component: It automatically shuts off after nine minutes of inactivity.
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.
Despite this high level of functionality and execution, the machine is surprisingly easy to use. It comes equipped with an LCD menu that allows you to select from 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 — select a size and pick a milk temperature and texture.
Because the Creatista Plus belongs to the original line, it is louder during the brewing process (thanks to those 19 bars of pressure) than the VertuoLine. It doesn’t work with VertuoLine pods or make regular coffee, either. 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 consistently delicious espresso from a beautiful machine.
The most luxurious Nespresso on the market, the Creatista Pro is a step up from the Creatista Plus. That's because the machine has even more features, including a dedicated hot water spout for tea and long blacks, a larger water reservoir and more customization options for drinks. And although it's on the larger side to accommodate all of these bells and whistles, it has the beautiful stainless steel design, complete with an easy-to-operate LCD screen, that is distinctly Breville. The Creatista Pro is undoubtedly a luxury machine with a luxury price point, but it’s the most customizable model Nespresso has to offer.
While it doesn’t work with VertuoLine pods or make regular coffee, the water spout does allow for drip-coffee-like drinks like Americanos. Drink options include: ristretto, espresso, lungo, Americano, flat white, cappuccino, café latte and latte macchiato. The Pro, which is ready to brew in just three seconds flat, can also heat milk and make espresso at the same time. And the integrated milk frother yields a smooth, creamy foam that's ideal for advanced users to make impressive latte art. Our testers love that users can also save their custom drink preferences with specific milk volume and texture as presets.
The Gran Lattissima strikes a happy medium between the sleek, easy-to-use design of the VertuoPlus and the more complex features of the Creatista series. You can select from nine presets on the top panel: ristretto, espresso, lungo, cappuccino, latte macchiato, flat white, caffè latte, hot milk and hot foam. The labeled buttons and LED screen make it exceptionally easy to pick what you want.
The hardworking appliance also comes equipped with an integrated frother and a built-in, modern milk hopper that can be detached and stored in the fridge. When you're done, it's perfectly safe to pop the milk jug in the dishwasher. Plus, the rinsing system is a breeze. Unfortunately, in testing, we found the milk frother itself was a bit difficult to clean. Our testers noticed the Gran Lattissima was also somewhat inconsistent between drinks. That said, the appliance's simple presets — and lower price point than the Creatista series — make it a worthy choice for your home, especially if you're a beginner looking for cappuccinos and lattes at the simple press of a button.
The latest in the VertuoLine, the Vertuo Pop+ is a stylish coffee and espresso machine that comes in a rainbow of seven colors and offers users the ability to brew both hot and cold beverages in five sizes. Choose from 5, 8, 12-ounce coffees, as well as single and double espressos brewed hot or over ice. It’s functionally very similar to the VertuoPlus, but it has a slimmer design and a slightly smaller water tank. It also features Bluetooth connectivity if you’d like to prepare a cup of coffee from your phone. No matter how you prepare your drink, the one-touch unit is quick to heat up — it's ready to brew in just 30 seconds.
Because it’s part of the VertuoLine, this model uses barcodes on each specially-designed capsule to brew the right strength and volume every time, and it produces a thick crema. Once the machine has delivered the perfect cup, it has an energy-saving auto-shutoff that goes into effect after two minutes of inactivity. The biggest downside? The machine doesn't come with an integrated milk frother — you'll have to add the Aeroccino to your cart, if that's what you're after.
Although it’s not a true Nespresso machine, the Wacaco Nanopresso is the best non-electric alternative to a proper espresso machine we’ve seen. And when you also purchase this pod-adapter attachment, you can use original Nespresso capsules. This portable espresso maker has impressive power too. It can generate up to 18 bars of pressure with hand power alone, brewing a creamy espresso shot anywhere you also have access to hot water — even somewhere remote like a campground.
Relative to its size, it is a pricey gadget — and it’s not the easiest to use without some practice — but it’s the go-to for travelers and adventurers who are serious about their espresso or Nespresso while traveling. You can be sure you're getting a consistent — and affordable — beverage, no matter where you are.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab, we test Nespresso machines according to the methodology we use when testing espresso machines. We evaluate their ease of use, time to brew, consistency, taste and noise level. In our most recent test of espresso machines, we rounded up over 20 models, brewing more than 60 cups of espresso. If the machine had a milk frother, we tested it with both skim and oat milks.
While we haven't formally tested every single Nespresso machine in the Lab, we've selected many of our road-tested top picks and vetted user reviews. Here, we prioritized machines that balance useful features with price, are easy to set up and use and brew consistent espresso time after time. Most Nespresso models produce the same quality of espresso, but during taste tests, we assured each machine produced a hot, smooth cup of espresso that had depth and wasn't too bitter or acidic, plus had crema that was smooth without any noticeable big or small air bubbles.
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 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:
✔️ Milk frothers: Some Nespresso models, including the Creatista series and the Gran Lattissima, 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 a lot of compact options, including the Essenza Mini and CitiZ, to choose from. These machines forgo extra features and big water reservoirs to stay 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, taller models. Make sure the machine you choose will fit under your countertops and suit the kind of vessel you’ll be drinking your coffee from. ✔️ 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 and brushed-stainless aesthetic.
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.
Brigitt Earley is a freelance writer with over 15 years of experience writing about household products, including kitchen appliances. She also holds a degree in Culinary Arts from The French Culinary Institute (now the Institute of Culinary Education). Brigitt worked under the guidance of experts at The Good Housekeeping Institute to research and write about the best Nespresso machines.
Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she oversees all testing and content related to cooking and making drinks. She conducted the latest side-by-side test of espresso machines and uses at least one daily. Her favorites are easy to use and clean and — most importantly — deliver a rich and balanced cup of espresso.
Cassidy Olsen is a freelance writer who has tested and written about kitchen appliances for years. She worked with the Good Housekeeping Institute to translate lab reports into easily digestible content that's more than just numbers and spreadsheets.
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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