What Nespresso Machine Do I Have? How to Identify Your Model

Original or Vertuo: the quick test

If you still have capsules from your last order, this is the fastest check. A sleeve of small aluminum capsules means Original. Larger capsules with a barcode mean Vertuo. The two systems are not interchangeable.

Find the model name and number

Nespresso prints the machine name and model number on a label, usually on the back or on the underside. Lift the machine, or slide it forward, and look for a sticker with the name (for example Essenza Mini, Pixie, CitiZ or Vertuo Next) and a code made of letters and numbers. Photograph the label so you have it when you buy descaler, accessories or capsules.

Match the name to a model

Original machines include Essenza Mini, Pixie, CitiZ, CitiZ Platinum, Inissia, Lattissima One, Gran Lattissima, Creatista Uno, Creatista Plus and Creatista Pro.

Vertuo machines include Vertuo, VertuoPlus, Vertuo Next, Vertuo Pop, Vertuo Pop+, Vertuo Up, Vertuo Creatista and Vertuo Lattissima.

Photos on our machine library help you match the shape and controls if the name on the machine has worn off.

Why the brand name on the machine can differ

Nespresso machines are made with partner brands, and the same model can appear under different names in different countries. In the United States and Canada you will often see Breville or De'Longhi on the machine, while in the UK and Europe the same family can carry Krups, De'Longhi or Magimix. The coffee system is the same, so identify the model by its Nespresso name, not by the maker's logo.

Why it matters

Capsules. Original machines take Original capsules and Original-compatible capsules from other brands. Vertuo machines mainly use capsules sold by Nespresso and its partners. See our pod compatibility chart.

Care. Original and Vertuo machines are descaled in different ways, so use the steps for your own system. Our descaling guide covers both.

Accessories and milk. A frother, a cleaning kit or a replacement part has to match your model. Check the model name before you order.

If the label is missing or unreadable

Compare the machine with the product photos on Nespresso's site or in our machine library, count the cup size buttons and note whether it takes a barcoded capsule. If you still cannot tell, contact Nespresso support with a photo of the machine. They can usually identify it from the shape and controls.

Cup size buttons on your machine

Count the buttons and read the icons. Many Original machines have two buttons, one for espresso and one for lungo, and some add a third or a ristretto setting. Vertuo machines usually have a single brew button, because the barcode on the capsule sets the program. A single button with a lever is a strong sign of a Vertuo machine.

If you inherited or bought the machine second-hand

Check that the lever or head opens and closes smoothly, that the tank seats properly and that the machine heats. Descale it before regular use, since you do not know when it was last done. Also check the voltage on the label: machines are built for the voltage of the country where they were sold, so a machine bought abroad may not suit your outlets.

What happens if you use the wrong capsule

A Vertuo capsule will not fit an Original machine, and the other way around. Never force a capsule in. If you pushed a capsule and it is stuck, follow our stuck capsule guide instead of using tools.

Questions people ask

Are Breville and De'Longhi Nespresso machines the same?

They are different partner brands that build machines for Nespresso. A model can exist under more than one maker's name, and the system, Original or Vertuo, decides which capsules fit.

Do all Nespresso machines use the same capsules?

No. Original and Vertuo capsules are different shapes and sizes, so each fits only its own system.

What if my machine has no model name?

Look for the label on the back or underside, or a code near the power cord. If it is missing, use the capsule type and the cup size buttons to find the system, then compare photos.

Where do I go next?

If you want to replace your machine, read which Nespresso machine you should buy. If you only need to use it, see how to use a Nespresso machine.