9 Best Capsule Espresso Machines (October 2026)
The best capsule espresso machines include the Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville for a simple espresso routine, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ by Breville for larger coffee sizes, and the Nespresso Essenza Mini by De'Longhi for a compact Original machine.
On this page (5 sections)
The best capsule espresso machine for most people is the Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville. It keeps the routine simple with two one-touch cup sizes, a 25-second heat-up and a compact design.
Choose the Vertuo Pop+ if you want larger coffees as well as espresso, or the Ninja CFN601 if you want one machine for capsules and ground coffee. If you already have capsules, check the system first: Vertuo, Original and Lavazza Blue pods are not interchangeable.
For more Nespresso models for everyday home use, see our guide to the best Nespresso machines for home use. If you're deciding between capsule systems, our Nespresso vs Ninja comparison covers their different brewing approaches.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for a simple espresso routineNespresso Essenza Mini by Breville
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for a compact Original machineNespresso Essenza Mini by De'Longhi
8.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Best for espresso and lungo at homeCheck it - 5
Check itNinja Espresso and Coffee Barista System CFN601
Best for capsules and ground coffee - 6
Best for a compact metal designCheck it - 7
Check itLavazza Blue Classy Mini LB 300
Best for Lavazza Blue capsules - 8
Check itCASABREWS CM7036E Capsule Espresso Machine
Best for four Original-capsule drink sizes - 9
Check itCHULUX Bafe-Pro Capsule Espresso Machine
Best for a removable used-capsule drawer
How we chose the best capsule espresso machines
The best capsule espresso machine depends on the drinks you make, the capsules you can buy and how much counter space you have. We compared the stated capsule systems, brew choices, tank details and other features for these nine machines.
The scores weigh those specs and features against the needs behind this search. They are a guide to fit, not a report of product testing.
A capsule system can narrow your choices more than a brand name does. The Vertuo Pop+ uses Vertuo capsules, the Lavazza Blue Classy Mini uses Lavazza Blue capsules, and the Original-focused Nespresso machines use or support Nespresso Original capsules.
The Nespresso Original capsule range and Nespresso Vertuo capsule range are separate systems. Check which capsules are available where you live before settling on a machine.
| Product | Best for | Capsule system | Cup choices | Dimensions | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville | a simple espresso routine | Nespresso Original | Espresso and lungo | 4.3 x 8 x 12.8 in | 8.8 |
| Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ by Breville | larger coffee sizes | Nespresso Vertuo | Six sizes, including 5, 8, 12 and 18 oz coffees | 8.7 | |
| Nespresso Essenza Mini by De'Longhi | a compact Original machine | Nespresso Original | Two programmable sizes | 4.33 x 12.79 x 8.07 in | 8.4 |
| Nespresso CitiZ by De'Longhi | espresso and lungo at home | Nespresso Original | Espresso and lungo | 8.3 | |
| Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System CFN601 | capsules and ground coffee | Nespresso Original compatible | 8.2 | ||
| Nespresso Pixie by De'Longhi | a compact metal design | Nespresso Original | Espresso and lungo | 12.76 x 4.6 x 9.25 in | 8.0 |
| Lavazza Blue Classy Mini LB 300 | Lavazza Blue capsules | Lavazza Blue | Espresso and lungo | 7.4 | |
| CASABREWS CM7036E Capsule Espresso Machine | four Original-capsule drink sizes | Nespresso Original compatible | 7.1 | ||
| CHULUX Bafe-Pro Capsule Espresso Machine | a removable used-capsule drawer | Nespresso Original compatible | Espresso and lungo | 7.0 |
The best capsule espresso machines for different routines
The Breville Essenza Mini leads for a simple espresso routine, while the Vertuo Pop+ and Ninja CFN601 suit buyers who want more drink variety. The remaining picks focus on compact Original machines, a specific capsule system or a particular feature.
Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville: Best for a simple espresso routine
- Two one-touch cup sizes
- Compact design
- 25-second heat-up
- Nespresso Original capsules
Two one-touch cup sizes and a compact design make this a straightforward pick for espresso and lungo. It uses Nespresso Original capsules.
Pros
- Two one-touch cup sizes
- Compact design
- 25-second heat-up
Cons
- Limited to two programmed cup sizes
- Does not brew larger coffee sizes
The Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville is the best fit for a straightforward espresso or lungo routine. Its two buttons brew two single-serve sizes, and the stated 25-second heat-up helps keep the steps short.
The compact body measures 4.3 in deep, 8 in wide and 12.8 in high. That gives you a clear starting point for checking a small counter, though you should leave room to fill the tank and place a cup.
This model uses Nespresso Original capsules. It includes a starter set, but the assortment may vary, so plan around the capsules you expect to use regularly.
Pick it if espresso and lungo cover your usual drinks. For a closer look at the capsule format and other Original machines, read our guide to Nespresso Original machines.
Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ by Breville: Best for larger coffee sizes
- Six cup sizes
- 37 fl oz removable side tank
- 30-second heat-up
- Vertuo capsules
Six cup sizes, including larger coffees, suit households that want more than espresso from a capsule brewer. It uses Vertuo capsules, which are exclusive to Vertuo machines.
Pros
- Six cup sizes
- Removable side tank
- Automatic used-pod ejection
Cons
- Vertuo capsules are not Original capsules
- Larger footprint than the Essenza Mini
The Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ by Breville is the pick for people who want capsule-made coffees in more than espresso-sized servings. It offers six cup sizes, including 5, 8, 12 and 18 oz coffees, along with single and double espresso.
Its 37 fl oz removable side tank is designed for easy access, and the machine ejects used pods automatically. The adjustable drip tray accommodates shorter cups, so check your favorite mug height before choosing a setup.
The key tradeoff is the capsule system: it takes Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which are exclusive to Vertuo machines. It does not use Original capsules.
Choose the Pop+ if larger servings matter more than using Original pods. For help comparing the two Nespresso systems, see Vertuo vs Original.
Nespresso Essenza Mini by De'Longhi: Best for a compact Original machine
- Two programmable cup sizes
- Nespresso Original capsules
- Removable tank
- Compact design
This Essenza Mini keeps to the same two-size, Original-capsule approach as the Breville version. It suits buyers who want a small machine with programmable espresso and lungo sizes.
Pros
- Two programmable cup sizes
- Nespresso Original compatibility
- Removable tank
Cons
- Only two cup choices
- No larger coffee sizes
The Nespresso Essenza Mini by De'Longhi suits buyers who want a compact Original machine with two programmable cup sizes. It offers the same basic espresso-and-lungo routine as the Breville Essenza Mini above.
Its stated dimensions are 4.33 in deep, 12.79 in wide and 8.07 in high. Compare the width and depth with your counter, since the machine's orientation can make a difference in a tight space.
This model uses Nespresso Original capsules and has a removable tank. It is a focused choice for buyers who do not need a carafe, larger coffees or a broad menu of drink sizes.
Choose it for a small two-size routine. If the deciding factor is how the two maker versions differ, our Breville vs De'Longhi comparison explains the distinction.
Nespresso CitiZ by De'Longhi: Best for espresso and lungo at home
- Espresso and lungo buttons
- Nespresso Original capsules
- Removable tank
- Recommended for home or small office use
The CitiZ offers espresso and lungo through programmable buttons, with a folding cup shelf for different cup heights. Its wider body needs more counter space than the Essenza Mini.
Pros
- Espresso and lungo buttons
- Folding cup shelf
- Removable tank
Cons
- Wider dimensions need more counter space
- Limited to Original capsules
The Nespresso CitiZ by De'Longhi is a home-friendly Original machine with programmable espresso and lungo buttons. Its folding cup shelf can accommodate a short cup or a taller tumbler.
The CitiZ is wider than the Essenza Mini, with stated dimensions of 7.44 in deep, 15.91 in wide and 12.99 in high. Measure the counter and consider access to the removable tank before deciding where it will sit.
It uses Nespresso Original capsules and includes a welcome kit. Its two programmed drinks make it a sensible choice if espresso and lungo are enough, and the larger body works better when you have more counter room.
For a smaller footprint, compare it with our picks for small Nespresso machines. Choose the CitiZ when the folding shelf and roomier design matter more than a narrow body.
Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System CFN601: Best for capsules and ground coffee
- Nespresso Original capsule compatible
- Brews coffee grounds in nine sizes
- Built-in fold-away frother
- 12-cup glass carafe
This larger system can brew Nespresso Original capsules and ground coffee, including a 12-cup carafe. A built-in fold-away frother supports cappuccinos, lattes and other espresso-based drinks.
Pros
- Brews capsules and ground coffee
- Built-in fold-away frother
- Carafe for larger batches
Cons
- Takes more counter space
- Espresso capsules are sold separately
The Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System CFN601 is the most flexible pick if you want espresso capsules and ground coffee in one machine. It supports Nespresso Original capsules and also brews ground coffee in styles and sizes ranging from a single cup to a 12-cup carafe.
A built-in fold-away frother lets you make espresso-based cappuccinos, lattes and flat whites. The adjustable cup tray can be set for a small espresso cup or a travel mug, and the used-capsule bin holds up to 20 capsules.
That flexibility calls for more counter space: the machine measures 11.89 in deep, 14.84 in wide and 17.4 in high. Espresso capsules are sold separately.
Choose it if carafe coffee and milk drinks are part of your routine. For a closer look at its capsule use and coffee options, read our Ninja CFN601 review.
Nespresso Pixie by De'Longhi: Best for a compact metal design
- Espresso and lungo selections
- Nespresso Original capsules
- Metal sides
- Automatic shutoff after two minutes
The Pixie pairs a compact shape with metal sides and two coffee selections. It suits buyers who want Original capsules and an espresso or lungo without a larger coffee menu.
Pros
- Espresso and lungo selections
- Metal sides
- Automatic shutoff
Cons
- Limited to two coffee selections
- No larger coffee sizes
The Nespresso Pixie by De'Longhi is a compact Original machine with espresso and lungo selections. Its metal sides give it a different look from the plastic-bodied compact machines in this group.
The Pixie measures 12.76 in deep, 4.6 in wide and 9.25 in high. Compare the depth with your available counter space, especially if it will sit under a cabinet or close to a wall.
It uses Nespresso Original capsules and switches off automatically after two minutes of inactivity. The two-selection menu is easy to understand, but it is not the right fit if you want larger coffee sizes or a built-in milk frother.
Pick the Pixie if the metal design and two-button routine appeal to you. If you want to see how Original-compatible machines compare more broadly, start with our guide to machines for Nespresso Original capsules.
Lavazza Blue Classy Mini LB 300: Best for Lavazza Blue capsules
- Lavazza Blue capsule system
- Espresso and lungo controls
- 5.3 in wide
- Programmable free dose
The Classy Mini is a narrow option for buyers who want to use Lavazza Blue capsules. It has two touch controls for espresso or lungo, including one programmable free dose.
Pros
- Narrow 5.3 in width
- Two touch controls
- Programmable free dose
Cons
- Uses Lavazza Blue capsules, not Nespresso capsules
- Fewer cup options than the Vertuo Pop+
The Lavazza Blue Classy Mini LB 300 is the clear choice here if you already use Lavazza Blue capsules. Its two touch controls cover espresso and lungo, and one dose can be programmed.
At 5.3 in wide, it has a narrow stated footprint, though its 13 in depth still needs to fit your counter. The machine is described for home, small-office or hotel-room use, making it a possible fit for a shared work space with the right capsules.
Lavazza Blue is a different system from Nespresso Original and Vertuo. Check capsule availability before buying, particularly if you expect to find pods alongside Nespresso options.
Choose this model for its capsule system and narrow body. Our Lavazza vs Nespresso comparison can help you think through that system choice.
CASABREWS CM7036E Capsule Espresso Machine: Best for four Original-capsule drink sizes
- Nespresso Original capsule compatible
- Four brew sizes
- 3.9 in wide
- Removable 21 oz tank
Four selectable brew sizes give this narrow machine more drink choices than a two-button espresso-and-lungo model. It is designed for Nespresso Original capsules.
Pros
- Four brew sizes
- 3.9 in wide
- Removable tank
Cons
- Only compatible with Nespresso Original capsules
- Check available cup space against the machine's 12.5 in depth
The CASABREWS CM7036E Capsule Espresso Machine combines a narrow 3.9 in width with four brew sizes: ristretto, espresso, lungo and Americano. That gives it more drink choices than the two-size machines, while keeping its focus on Nespresso Original capsules.
The machine has a removable 21 oz water tank and an 8-capsule container. Its stated dimensions are 12.5 in deep by 3.9 in wide by 8.6 in high, so check the depth as well as the slim front profile.
CASABREWS describes the CM7036E as compatible only with Nespresso Original pods. If your current capsules are Vertuo or Lavazza Blue, this is not the right system.
Pick it if you want four choices from an Original-compatible machine with a very narrow body. Measure the space first, including room for the tank and a cup.
CHULUX Bafe-Pro Capsule Espresso Machine: Best for a removable used-capsule drawer
- Nespresso Original pod compatible
- Espresso and lungo buttons
- 24 fl oz tank
- Removable capsule container
The Bafe-Pro offers espresso and lungo with Original-compatible pods, plus a removable capsule container and drip tray. It suits a simple pod routine where those removable parts are useful.
Pros
- Espresso and lungo buttons
- Removable capsule container
- 24 fl oz tank
Cons
- Limited to two drink choices
- Check machine height and depth against your counter
The CHULUX Bafe-Pro Capsule Espresso Machine offers a simple espresso-and-lungo routine with Nespresso Original-compatible pods. Its 24 fl oz water tank, removable drip tray and removable capsule container are useful details for daily brewing and cleanup.
The machine has two buttons and a foldable drip tray for taller cups. The used capsules collect in a dedicated drawer, which is removable along with the drip tray.
This pick stays focused on two drinks. It does not offer the larger coffee sizes of the Vertuo Pop+ or the ground-coffee and carafe options of the Ninja CFN601.
Choose it if you want an Original-compatible machine with a removable capsule drawer. Check the machine's 9.53 in depth and 13.94 in height against your counter before deciding.
How to choose a capsule espresso machine
Choose a capsule system before comparing extra features, because each machine works with a specific type of pod. The Nespresso Original machines here cover espresso and lungo, while the Vertuo Pop+ offers larger coffee sizes and Lavazza Blue uses its own capsules.
If you already have a stash of pods, match the machine to them. If you are starting fresh, check what capsule options you can regularly find and what drink sizes the system supports.
Next, think about what you drink. An Essenza Mini, CitiZ or Pixie keeps to espresso and lungo, while the Vertuo Pop+ adds larger coffee servings.
The Ninja CFN601 is the pick for people who want capsules and ground coffee, plus a built-in frother and carafe. For more milk-drink ideas and machine options, see our guide to Nespresso machines for lattes.
What should you measure before buying?
Measure the machine's width, depth and height against the counter where you plan to brew. Leave access to the water tank and space to raise or open the machine as needed.
For example, the CASABREWS CM7036E is narrow at 3.9 in, but it is 12.5 in deep. The Vertuo Pop+ is 14 in deep, while the Breville Essenza Mini is 8 in wide.
Also check the space under cupboards and the height of your usual cup. A folding or adjustable drip tray can help fit different cups, but it does not change the machine's overall dimensions.
Which capsule espresso machine should you choose?
Choose the Breville Essenza Mini if you want a compact Original machine for espresso and lungo. Pick the Vertuo Pop+ for larger coffee sizes, the Ninja CFN601 for capsules plus ground coffee, or the Lavazza Blue Classy Mini if you already use Lavazza Blue pods.
If Original capsule compatibility is your priority, compare the best machines for Nespresso Original capsules before deciding. Match the pod system, drink sizes and machine dimensions to your daily routine.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for a simple espresso routine
Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for a compact Original machine
Nespresso Essenza Mini by De'Longhi
8.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Which capsule espresso machine is best for most people?
The Nespresso Essenza Mini by Breville is a strong fit for a simple espresso routine. It uses Nespresso Original capsules and has two one-touch cup sizes.
Choose the Vertuo Pop+ if you want larger coffee sizes, or the Ninja CFN601 if brewing ground coffee as well as capsules matters.
Do all capsule espresso machines use the same pods?
No. The Vertuo Pop+ uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules, while the Essenza Mini, CitiZ, Pixie and Ninja CFN601 use or support Nespresso Original capsules.
The Lavazza Blue Classy Mini uses Lavazza Blue capsules.
Check the capsule system before choosing a machine, especially if you already have pods at home.
Can a capsule machine make regular coffee?
Some can, but the size and method vary. The Vertuo Pop+ makes several larger coffee sizes from Vertuo capsules, and the Ninja CFN601 brews ground coffee in multiple sizes, including a 12-cup carafe.
The Original-focused espresso picks here mainly offer espresso and lungo.
Which capsule machine is best for a small counter?
Compare the machine's width and depth with the space available, including room to open it and fill its tank. The CASABREWS CM7036E is 3.9 in wide, and the Breville Essenza Mini measures 4.3 in deep by 8 in wide.
A narrow width alone does not show how much front-to-back space a machine needs.
Can I make milk drinks with a capsule espresso machine?
The Ninja CFN601 has a built-in fold-away frother for espresso-based cappuccinos, lattes and other drinks. The product details for the other compact capsule picks here do not describe a built-in frother.
For more milk-drink options, see our guide to Nespresso machines for lattes.
