I’ve always been a coffee enthusiast, chasing that perfect espresso shot to kickstart my mornings. When I decided to upgrade my home coffee game, I found myself torn between two Nespresso machines: the CitiZ and the Essenza Mini. Both promise convenience and quality, but which one truly delivers?
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience with these machines, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you choose the right one for your kitchen. From design to performance, I’ve tested them both to guide your decision.
Comparison Table: Nespresso CitiZ vs. Essenza Mini
| Feature | Nespresso CitiZ | Nespresso Essenza Mini |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 5.1 x 10.9 x 14.6 in | 4.3 x 8.0 x 12.8 in |
| Weight | 8.8 lbs | 5.1 lbs |
| Water Tank Capacity | 34 oz | 20.3 oz |
| Used Capsule Capacity | 9–11 capsules | 5–6 capsules |
| Heat-Up Time | 25 seconds | 25 seconds |
| Drink Options | Espresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.7 oz) | Espresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.7 oz) |
| Build Material | Plastic with metal accents | Plastic |
| Price (Approx.) | $249–$329 (with milk frother) | $179–$199 |
| Milk Frother | Optional (Aeroccino3 bundle available) | Optional (Aeroccino3 bundle available) |
| Design | Retro-modern, sleek | Compact, minimalist, colorful options |
| Power | 1710 W | 1150 W |
My Journey with Nespresso: Why These Machines?
I’ve been using Nespresso machines for years, and their pod-based system has always appealed to me for its simplicity. No grinding beans, no tamping grounds—just pop in a capsule and press a button.
The CitiZ and Essenza Mini, both from Nespresso’s OriginalLine, caught my attention because they’re compact, affordable, and designed for espresso lovers like me. But they’re not identical twins. The CitiZ has a premium vibe, while the Essenza Mini is the budget-friendly underdog. I wanted to see which one would fit my lifestyle—and yours—best.
Design and Aesthetics: First Impressions Matter
When I unboxed the Nespresso CitiZ, I was immediately struck by its retro-modern look. It’s got this sleek, almost industrial charm with metal accents that scream sophistication. At 5.1 inches wide and 10.9 inches tall, it’s not bulky, but it feels substantial on my counter.
The foldable drip tray is a thoughtful touch, letting me switch between small espresso cups and taller mugs for lungos or lattes. It’s the kind of machine that makes you want to show it off.
The Essenza Mini, on the other hand, is the scrappy little sibling. At just 4.3 inches wide and 8 inches tall, it’s Nespresso’s smallest machine, perfect for my cramped apartment days.
Its plastic body doesn’t feel as luxurious, but I loved the playful color options—red, lime green, or classic black.
The Breville version has a rectangular shape, while De’Longhi’s is more rounded, giving you a bit of personality to match your kitchen vibe.
It’s less about making a statement and more about getting the job done without hogging space. For me, the CitiZ wins on aesthetics. It feels like a piece of art, while the Essenza Mini is practical but less eye-catching. If counter space is tight, though, the Mini’s compact size is a lifesaver.
Build Quality: Durability Meets Practicality
The CitiZ’s mix of plastic and metal gives it a sturdier feel. At 8.8 pounds, it stays put on my counter, even when I’m rushing through my morning routine. The lever for inserting capsules feels smooth and solid, and the foldable drip tray is a game-changer for versatility. I’ve knocked it around a bit, and it’s held up without a scratch.
The Essenza Mini, at 5.1 pounds, is lighter and easier to move, which I appreciated when I was rearranging my kitchen. But its all-plastic construction feels a tad flimsy. The drip tray and capsule container are smaller, and I noticed the tray wobbles if I’m not careful. Some users report durability issues like leaks after heavy use, which gave me pause.
If you’re rough on appliances or want something that feels premium, the CitiZ’s build quality is a step above. The Essenza Mini is fine for light use but might not withstand years of daily brewing as well.
Water Tank and Capsule Capacity: Convenience Counts
One of my biggest pet peeves is constantly refilling water tanks or emptying used capsules. The CitiZ’s 34-ounce water tank lets me brew about 12 espressos or 9 lungos before needing a refill, which is perfect for my two-to-three-cups-a-day habit. Its capsule container holds 9 to 11 used pods, so I can go a few days without emptying it. The tank’s side or back placement makes refilling a bit cumbersome, but it’s manageable.
The Essenza Mini’s 20.3-ounce tank means more frequent refills—about 7 espressos or 5 lungos. The used capsule container holds only 5 to 6 pods, which feels limiting if I’m hosting friends. I found myself emptying it daily, which got old fast. Plus, the tank’s rear placement is tricky to access in a crowded kitchen.
For those who brew multiple cups daily or entertain often, the CitiZ’s larger capacity is a clear win. The Essenza Mini is better for solo coffee drinkers or those who don’t mind a bit of extra maintenance.
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Performance: The Espresso Test
Both machines use Nespresso’s 19-bar pump pressure system, so I expected similar espresso quality. I wasn’t disappointed. Using the same Colombia blend pod, both the CitiZ and Essenza Mini produced rich, creamy espressos with a solid crema layer. The CitiZ’s shots felt slightly silkier, with a fuller body, which I chalk up to its Thermoblock heating system maintaining consistent temperatures. It brews an espresso in about 18 seconds and a lungo in 37 seconds, with a 25-second heat-up time.
The Essenza Mini matched the CitiZ shot for shot in flavor, which surprised me given its lower price. Its espresso was complex and balanced, though I noticed slight inconsistencies in crema thickness over multiple brews. It also heats up in 25 seconds and brews at similar speeds. However, it’s noticeably louder, which can be jarring in a quiet morning kitchen.
Both machines deliver excellent espresso, but the CitiZ’s consistency and quieter operation give it a slight edge. If noise isn’t a dealbreaker, the Essenza Mini holds its own.
Drink Options: Simplicity or Versatility?
As OriginalLine machines, both the CitiZ and Essenza Mini focus on espresso (1.35 oz) and lungo (3.7 oz). No drip coffee here, but that’s fine by me—I’m all about that concentrated coffee hit. Neither comes with a built-in milk frother, but you can bundle either with Nespresso’s Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. I tried the Aeroccino3 with both, and it’s a game-changer for creamy milk-based drinks, though cleaning it after each use is a chore.
The CitiZ’s foldable drip tray makes it easier to fit taller mugs for milk-based drinks, which I appreciated when making lattes. The Essenza Mini’s fixed tray limits cup size, so I had to get creative with smaller mugs. If you’re a purist who sticks to straight espresso, this won’t matter much. But for occasional cappuccino cravings, the CitiZ feels more accommodating.
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Ease of Use: No-Fuss Brewing
I’m not a morning person, so I need a machine that’s dead simple to use. Both the CitiZ and Essenza Mini deliver here. Pop in a capsule, press one of two buttons (espresso or lungo), and you’re sipping coffee in under a minute. The CitiZ’s lever feels smoother, and its larger water tank means less fiddling. The Essenza Mini’s buttons are equally intuitive, but the smaller capsule container and tank require more frequent attention.
Both machines have a 9-minute auto-shutoff, which I love for peace of mind, and you can extend it to 30 minutes. Cleaning is straightforward—removable drip trays and tanks make wiping down a breeze. Nespresso’s descaling process is simple for both, though the Essenza Mini’s 15-minute descaling mode is a nice touch.
Price and Value: Is the CitiZ Worth the Premium?
The Essenza Mini is Nespresso’s budget champ, retailing around $179–$199. It’s a steal for the quality, especially if you’re new to Nespresso or don’t need bells and whistles.
The CitiZ, priced at $249–$329 (higher with the milk frother bundle), feels like a splurge.
But its larger tank, sturdier build, and sleeker design justify the cost for those who value aesthetics and convenience.
Pods are the real cost factor. At about 80 cents per capsule, they add up compared to traditional espresso beans (around 50 cents per shot).
Still, both machines save money over daily café runs. For me, the Essenza Mini’s value is hard to beat, but the CitiZ feels like a worthwhile investment for frequent brewers.
Pros and Cons: Breaking It Down
Nespresso CitiZ Pros:
- Sleek, retro-modern design with metal accents elevates any kitchen.
- Larger 34-ounce water tank reduces refills.
- Holds 9–11 used capsules, ideal for multiple daily brews.
- Foldable drip tray accommodates taller mugs for lattes.
- Consistent, silky espresso with rich crema.
- Quieter operation compared to the Essenza Mini.
Nespresso CitiZ Cons:
- Higher price point ($249–$329) may stretch budgets.
- Larger footprint (5.1 x 10.9 x 14.6 in) takes more counter space.
- Water tank placement can be awkward to access.
- No built-in milk frother (optional bundle adds cost).
Nespresso Essenza Mini Pros:
- Compact size (4.3 x 8.0 x 12.8 in) fits tiny kitchens.
- Affordable price ($179–$199) offers great value.
- Colorful design options add personality.
- Same 19-bar pressure system delivers quality espresso.
- Energy-saving mode and auto-shutoff are eco-friendly.
Nespresso Essenza Mini Cons:
- Smaller 20.3-ounce tank requires frequent refills.
- Holds only 5–6 capsules, needing daily emptying.
- Plastic build feels less durable; some report leaks.
- Louder operation can disrupt quiet spaces.
- Fixed drip tray limits cup size.
My Experience: Day-to-Day Living with Each Machine
For a month, I alternated between the CitiZ and Essenza Mini to see how they fit into my routine. Mornings with the CitiZ felt luxurious. Its larger tank meant I could brew my usual two espressos and a lungo for my partner without refilling. The foldable drip tray was a lifesaver when I wanted a latte, and the machine’s quiet hum didn’t wake the house. But its size was a squeeze on my counter, and the $249 price tag made me question if I needed the extra features.
The Essenza Mini was a different story. Its tiny footprint was a godsend in my small kitchen, and the red De’Longhi model added a fun pop of color. Brewing was just as quick, and the espresso quality was nearly identical. But I got annoyed emptying the capsule container every day, and the noise was noticeable in my quiet apartment. At $179, though, it felt like a bargain for the performance.
Who Are These Machines For?
The CitiZ is for coffee lovers who want a premium experience. If you brew multiple cups daily, value design, and don’t mind spending more, it’s your match. Its larger tank and capsule capacity make it ideal for small households or entertaining.
The Essenza Mini suits solo drinkers, small kitchens, or budget-conscious buyers. It’s perfect if you want great espresso without the frills or space demands.
Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Your Machine Happy
Both machines require similar upkeep. I descale every 300–1,200 shots, depending on water hardness, using Nespresso’s descaling kit. The CitiZ’s larger tank means slightly less frequent descaling, but both are easy to clean with removable parts. Nespresso’s free pod recycling program is a bonus—just drop off used capsules at a UPS point. The CitiZ’s sturdier build gives me confidence it’ll last longer, while the Essenza Mini’s plastic body raised some durability concerns after reading user reviews.
Environmental Considerations: Pods and Power
Nespresso pods aren’t the most eco-friendly, but both machines work with reusable capsules if you’re environmentally conscious. The Essenza Mini’s energy-saving mode feels slightly more efficient, but both have auto-shutoff to conserve power. If sustainability matters to you, the Essenza Mini’s lower power consumption (1150 W vs. CitiZ’s 1710 W) might tip the scales.
My Verdict: Which One Wins?
After weeks of brewing, I lean toward the CitiZ. Its design, larger capacity, and quieter operation make my mornings feel special. But the Essenza Mini is a close second for its affordability and compact size. Your choice depends on your priorities: premium feel and convenience (CitiZ) or budget and space savings (Essenza Mini). Either way, you’re getting a solid espresso machine that’ll cut your café visits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, if you value premium design, larger capacity, and versatility for taller cups. It’s pricier but ideal for frequent brewers.
The Essenza Mini is best for budget-conscious buyers or small spaces; the CitiZ excels for premium design and capacity. It depends on your needs.
The Essenza Mini edges out the Inissia for its smaller size and quieter operation, though both brew similar espresso.
The CitiZ offers a larger water tank and sleeker design, but the Pixie is more compact with durable metal casing. Choose based on space and style.
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Conclusion: Your Perfect Coffee Companion
You’re standing at a crossroads, craving that perfect espresso to elevate your mornings. I’ve been there, testing the Nespresso CitiZ and Essenza Mini to find the one that fits. The CitiZ brings elegance and convenience, perfect if you want a machine that feels like a café at home.
The Essenza Mini delivers the same great coffee in a compact, budget-friendly package.
Weigh your space, budget, and brewing habits, and you’ll find your match.
Whichever you choose, your coffee game is about to level up.