Comparisons
Comparisons
The Nespresso Original system is famous for compact machines that produce espresso and lungo at the touch of a button. Two of the smallest models—CitiZ and Essenza Mini—are often compared by people who want a neat, reliable coffee maker for a small kitchen, office or studio. While both use the same Original capsules and the same high‑pressure extraction technology, their sizes and features differ in ways that matter for everyday use. This article explains those differences and helps you decide which machine suits your coffee routine.
Choose Essenza Mini if you want the smallest, simplest Nespresso Original machine for espresso and lungo. Choose CitiZ if you want a compact machine with a larger water tank, bigger used‑capsule container and a stronger design presence. Both machines use Nespresso Original capsules, not Vertuo pods, and availability can vary by country.
Read on for a deeper look at who each machine is best for, what they share and what to consider regarding size, water tank, capsule capacity, milk drinks and day‑to‑day convenience.
Guided recommendation
Use the machine quiz if you want a guided recommendation based on drinks, space and daily routine.
Find My MachineWritten reviews are coming soon.
Ratings are live, but no written comments have been added yet.
The official CitiZ specifications list a ~25 second heat‑up time, a 1 L water tank, used‑capsule capacity of 9–11 pods, and dimensions around 5.2 × 14.6 × 10.9 inches; it weighs roughly 4 kg and brews espresso and lungo before switching off after nine minutes. The bigger tank and capsule container mean fewer refills if you drink multiple coffees each day.
By contrast, the Essenza Mini uses a 0.6 L water tank, holds 6 used capsules, heats up in about 30 seconds and measures roughly 4.3 × 8.1 × 12.8 inches, weighing only about 2.3 kg. It offers two programmable volumes (espresso 40 ml and lungo 110 ml) and also switches off after nine minutes. Its smaller tank and container require more frequent refilling and emptying but give it the smallest footprint.
Despite their size differences, CitiZ and Essenza Mini share core DNA. They are both part of the Nespresso Original system and brew two cup sizes: espresso and lungo. Each uses a 19‑bar pump to produce a thick crema, and the brew buttons can be programmed for your preferred volumes. An automatic shut‑off after about nine minutes saves energy. Neither machine accepts Vertuo pods; they work exclusively with Original capsules, including many compatible third‑party options.
The Essenza Mini is ideal for very small kitchens or offices and for people who mostly drink espresso or lungo. Its 0.6 L water tank and six‑pod container mean you’ll refill and empty more often, but the machine is extremely compact and weighs only about 2.3 kg. It heats up in about 30 seconds and delivers the same high‑pressure espresso quality as larger models, making it a good fit for occasional use and minimalist spaces.
The CitiZ is better suited to frequent or shared use. It offers a 33 fl oz (≈1 L) water tank and a 9–11‑pod container, so you can brew many drinks without stopping to refill or empty. The machine heats up in roughly 25 seconds and has a slim yet taller design that gives it a stronger presence on the counter. Colour options and a CitiZ & Milk bundle with an integrated Aeroccino (where available) add style and convenience.
The table summarises key differences and similarities using concise phrases.
| Factor | CitiZ | Essenza Mini | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| System | Original | Original | Capsule system |
| Cup sizes | Espresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.5 oz) | Espresso (40 ml), Lungo (110 ml) | Drink formats |
| Water tank | 33 fl oz (~1 L) | 0.6 L | Refill frequency |
| Used‑capsule container | 9–11 capsules | 6 capsules | Emptying rate |
| Heat‑up time | ~25 s | ~30 s | Brewing speed |
| Auto‑off | 9 min | 9 min | Energy saving |
| Dimensions | 5.2 × 14.6 × 10.9 in | 4.3 × 8.1 × 12.8 in (approx.) | Footprint |
| Weight | ~4 kg | ~2.3 kg | Portability |
| Milk options | Optional Aeroccino bundles | Pair with Aeroccino | Milk drinks |
| Best for | Frequent use, larger households | Small spaces, occasional use | Daily habit |
| Availability | Varies by country | Varies by country | Check locally |
Because both machines use the same capsules and pump pressure, the drinks they produce taste the same. You can brew espresso or lungo with either machine; neither can make Vertuo‑style mugs or carafes. For larger coffee formats, you would need a Vertuo machine.
Space and capacity go hand in hand. CitiZ is slim but deeper than Essenza Mini; its base extends further from the wall to house a 33 fl oz (≈1 L) water tank and a used‑capsule container holding 9–11 pods. This means you’ll refill the tank and empty spent capsules far less often, which suits frequent use or shared households. Essenza Mini is the smallest and lightest Original machine; its 0.6 L tank and six‑pod container keep the footprint tiny but require more regular refilling and emptying. When choosing between them, think about whether you prefer a truly compact machine with more upkeep or a slightly larger machine that needs less maintenance.
Neither machine has a built‑in milk frother. If you enjoy cappuccino or latte, pair either model with Nespresso’s Aeroccino or another frother. Some markets offer a CitiZ & Milk bundle that integrates the Aeroccino, but availability depends on country. Essenza Mini can be bundled with or used alongside a separate Aeroccino. Always check local product descriptions for bundle details.
Both machines belong to the Nespresso Original system, so they use standard Original capsules—small aluminium or plastic pods designed for high‑pressure extraction. Many third‑party brands, including L’OR, illy, Lavazza, Costa Coffee and Starbucks by Nespresso, make Original‑compatible capsules; check packaging to confirm compatibility and note that flavour may vary. Vertuo is a different system that reads barcodes and uses centrifusion; its capsules are not interchangeable with Original machines. If you want larger mug‑size coffees, consider a Vertuo machine instead.
Machine names, colours and bundles vary by country and retailer. For example, CitiZ may be sold under De’Longhi or Breville branding with identical functionality. Essenza Mini is produced by multiple partners as well. Check your local Nespresso site or trusted shops for precise model names, warranty details and bundle options. Do not assume a particular colour or milk bundle is available everywhere.
Q. Is Nespresso CitiZ better than Essenza Mini?
A. Neither is universally better; they are suited to different needs. CitiZ has a bigger water tank and capsule container, making it better for frequent use or shared households. Essenza Mini is smaller, lighter and simpler, which suits occasional use and very small kitchens. Both produce the same espresso and lungo drinks.
Q. Do CitiZ and Essenza Mini use the same capsules?
A. Yes. Both are Nespresso Original machines and use Original capsules. They also work with many third‑party Original‑compatible capsules. Do not use Vertuo capsules.
Q. Can I use Vertuo capsules in CitiZ or Essenza Mini?
A. No. Vertuo capsules are designed for a different brewing system with barcode technology. Original machines cannot read or brew Vertuo pods.
Q. Which machine is better for a small kitchen?
A. Essenza Mini has the smallest footprint and is easier to fit into tight spaces. CitiZ is still compact but deeper and slightly heavier.
Q. Which machine has the larger water tank?
A. CitiZ has a water tank of about 33 fl oz (approx. 1 L), while Essenza Mini’s tank is 0.6 L.
Q. Are CitiZ and Essenza Mini good for milk drinks?
A. Neither machine has a built‑in milk frother. You can pair them with Nespresso’s Aeroccino or other frothers. Some markets offer CitiZ & Milk bundles with an integrated Aeroccino.
Q. Which one should I choose for daily espresso?
A. If you drink a few espressos every day or share the machine, CitiZ’s larger tank and capsule bin make life easier. For occasional single espressos in a small space, Essenza Mini is sufficient.
Q. Does availability vary by country?
A. Yes. Models, colours and bundles differ by market. Always check official Nespresso websites or trusted retailers in your country.
Both CitiZ and Essenza Mini are excellent compact entries into the Nespresso Original system. The decision comes down to space versus convenience. Choose Essenza Mini when size and simplicity are paramount. Choose CitiZ when you value a larger water tank, bigger used‑capsule capacity and a more prominent design. Either way, enjoy the ease of Nespresso Original capsules and the freedom to explore a world of espresso and lungo flavours.