nespresso essenza mini review
  • Flavor & Coffee Quality
  • Brewing System
  • Design & Features
  • Durability
  • Ease of Use
  • Ease of Cleaning
  • Brand Reputation
  • Price
  • Extra Features
4.2

Nespresso Essenza Mini

The Essenza Mini from Nespresso is a high-quality machine that won’t break the bank and will make no sacrifices in flavor. The new Essenza Mini machine is the pinnacle of coffee perfection, thanks to its user-friendliness, sleek design, and premium build. The little machine makes Nespresso coffee accessible to a broad audience. The world of Nespresso Coffee is yours to explore with the tiniest device of its kind.

Pros

Cons

👍 Produces good espresso with impressive crema

👎 Basic plastic construction

👍 Compact and ligh tweight

👎 Espresso lacks complex flavors

👍 Affordable

👎 Few settings

👍 Choice of two espresso sizes

👎 Small container for used capsules

👍 Energy efficient

👎 Some durability issues

Nespresso Essenza Mini Overview

The coffee maker from Nespresso, the Essenza Mini, is an excellent addition to any home.

The new Essenza Mini machine is the pinnacle of coffee perfection, thanks to its user-friendliness, sleek design, and premium build. There are two unique, modern shapes and three color options to pick from, so you can find something that works with your decor no matter where you live. Essenza Mini allows you to make your perfect cup of coffee in programmable cup sizes and automated flow-stop, making it a breeze to create both an Espresso and a Lungo. It has a lot going for it, including an automatic cleaning program, a remarkably tiny footprint, and two different brew volumes. This model may be ideal if you want an affordable espresso maker that doesn’t skimp on features. This little mug is perfect for those genuinely epic coffee moments.

Features & Specifications of Nespresso Essenza Mini

Product Line
Best forMaking Barista Style Coffee
Manufacturing PartnerBreville
Country of OriginSwitzerland 
ColorPiano Black
Coffee Maker TypeEspresso Machine
Dimension4.3”Dx 8”Wx12.8”H
MaterialPlastic
Filter TypePaper, reusable 
Weight2.3 kilograms
Energy saving modeAfter 9 min auto off
Power ratingLow energy consumption after 3 minute eco mode
Voltage1310W
Pressure19 Bars
Customer Reviews4.7 (amazon)
Instant heat upYes due to the size
Capable of single serve coffeeyes
Human Interface InputTouch screen keypad
Brew SizesEspresso 40 ml, Lungo 110ml 
Spent Capsules6
Wireless connectivityno
Water reservoir capacity0.6 liters
Milk containerYes
FrotherSold separately
Price$125
Additional specificationsThe default auto shut time is 9 min that can be changed to 30 minutes as desire

16 Things to consider before buying Essenza Mini

1. Nespresso Line

One of the essential things to consider is the product line. Nespresso has two product lines of capsule-based espresso machines: Original Line and Vertou Line. The original Line uses 19 bar pressure to extract the coffee from the grounds. In contrast, Vertou lines use the centrifugation method to extract coffee shots from the capsules using bar code technology. Original line Nespresso Essenza Mini is preferable to Vertuo lines as it brews the best quality espresso and can use 3rd party capsules without having the problem of barcode scanning.

2. Coffee Quality

Another thing to consider while buying a coffee machine is the quality. The espresso produced by the Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine is robust in flavor and always topped with a lovely layer of crema. Each espresso shot from the Essenza Mini should have a strong taste, a pleasing aroma, and a thick layer of golden crema. The Essenza Mini’s espresso is surprisingly tasty for a capsule machine, even though you have little say over the grinding, dosing, and tamping processes. Every crema is airy and ethereal.

3. Ease of use

One thing to remember when looking for a coffee maker is how straightforward its operation functions are. The more complicated the product is to use, the more likely you will avoid or minimize your involvement. The Essenza mini can be operated with a single touch, produces water at the perfect serving temperature in just 25 seconds, and powers down after 9 minutes to conserve energy. Check our How to use a Nespresso Machine if you need any further guidance with your Nespresso.

4. Design & Features

Two sizes are available for the Essenza Mini, and I had the opportunity to try out the smaller one for a while. The second one has a more cone-like form and will take up a little more room on your kitchen counter. The compact shape and clean lines of the Nespresso Essenza Mini ensure that it will look great in any kitchen. It is lightweight and portable.

5. Dimensions

You will want to know the coffee machine’s dimensions if you only have a limited amount of room on your kitchen shelf. Usually, coffee makers with a compact size offering maximum features are regarded for buying. It weighs 5.1 pounds and has dimensions of 4.3 by 8.1 by 12.8 inches. It may be positioned on a kitchen counter at a straight angle against the wall. The compact design of the Nespresso Essenza Mini takes up less space on the kitchen counter.

6. Water Reservoir Capacity

The Nespresso Essenza Mini includes a detachable water tank containing up to 20.3. ounces of water, making it ideal for frequent use. This is an appropriate size that allows for minimal space requirements while preventing the need for regular restocking.

7. Brew sizes

The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a compact coffee maker that features two programmable cup sizes (Espresso and Lungo), is simple to operate, is aesthetically pleasing, and produces consistently excellent coffee. You can choose between a traditional espresso with one shot or a lungo with two.

The espresso and the lungo are 1.35 ounces in volume, while the lungo is 3.72 ounces. Using two Nespresso capsules and brewing twice in the same mug can yield a double shot, but at the expense of your wallet.

8. Brewing Speed

The astonishingly rich and unctuous cream is a direct result of the 19-bar high-pressure pump’s ability to fully extract the delicate flavors and premium fragrances of each coffee capsule during the brewing process. Within 30 seconds, the system will have heated to the perfect temperature.

9. Power saving

The Essenza mini’s ability to go into an energy-saving mode that you may customize is a significant perk. All of us are concerned about our impact on the environment. Therefore this mode is ideal for anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint in 2018. After 9 minutes, the machine will turn off by itself in energy-saving mode. But if you want, you can make it 30x

10. Pump vs Centrifusion

According to the type of coffee being made, the two most common procedures are the pump and the centrifugation. Coffee is extracted from Nespresso Lattissima Touch capsules with a 19-bar pressure pump, whereas vertuoline utilizes a centrifugation technique.

11. Programmable Settings

With only two buttons, this coffee maker is simple to operate. Put in the capsule, compress the lever, and choose between an espresso and a lungo brew. Holding down the buttons grants you access to a few options, like descaling mode and customizing the auto-off timer, but beyond that, you don’t have a lot of say over your beverage.

12. Crema Consistency

Every espresso shot from the Essenza Mini should have a robust taste, a pleasing aroma, and a thick layer of golden crema. The Essenza Mini’s espresso is surprisingly tasty for a capsule machine, even though you have little say over the grinding, dosing, and tamping processes. Every cream is fluffy and delicate.

13. Ease of Cleaning & Descaling

The cleaning process is simple and quick. Cleaning up after the use of this espresso machine is fantastic. It’s recommended to clean the detachable components with hot water and a gentle detergent after every few uses. After drying them with a towel, reload them into the washer. Used capsules can be ejected from the front of the capsule container and discarded into a separate recycling bin. You may put the Essenza Mini into its 15-minute descaling mode by pushing the brew and descaling buttons. When thoroughly cleaning, Nespresso suggests using a complete descaling packet, which can be purchased from their official website. Descale your espresso machine every 300-1,200 shots, depending on the hardness of your water.

Also read: How to Clean a Nespresso Machine? – Step by Step Guide

14. Price

The cost is typically the first consideration when considering a new coffee maker. Ultimately, you’ll only examine coffee makers within your set price range. 

The Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine is of great value when considering its small size, simplicity, and reliable performance. This espresso machine produces exceptional espresso for its inexpensive price point, which is about $169.

15. Warranty

The Essenza Mini is guaranteed for a year by Nespresso. If your machine breaks, the warranty will pay to get it fixed or replaced, and you might even get a replacement to use in the meanwhile.

16. Extra Features

Power savings can be customized on the Essenza Mini. The default timeout for the machine is 9 minutes, but you can change it to thirty. Capsules that have been used must be manually ejected into a collection tray containing up to six.

A free pod recycling service is also available from Nespresso. You can get a free recycling bag with each order of coffee pods from the company’s website. Drop it off at UPS with your used capsules, and Nespresso will handle the rest. Just about nothing could be simpler than that.

Is the Nespresso Essenza Mini worth the price?

Yes, It is worth the price. Nespresso’s Essenza Mini is a high-quality machine that won’t break the bank. This model can be suitable if you want an easy-to-use espresso maker that won’t break the bank. The Essenza Mini is an excellent coffee machine because of its two brew size options, automatic cleaning function, and compact design.

Recommended Guide: Is Nespresso worth it

Nespresso Essenza Mini Alternatives

Features

Nespresso Essenza Mini

Nespresso Vertuo Next

Nespresso VertuoPlus

Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe

Coffee Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Brew Sizes

Two cup sizes

(1.35-5 oz)

Five cup sizes (0.30-17 oz)

Five cup sizes (0.30-17 oz)

Five cup sizes (0.30-17 oz)

Water Reservoir

21 oz

37 oz

40 oz

60 oz

Heat-Up Time

25 seconds

25 seconds

20 seconds

20 seconds

Spent Capsules

16

10

10

10

Height

12.8"H

12.4″H

12.8″H

12.8″H

Width

8"W

5.5″W

8.7″W

9.1″W

Weight

5.95 lbs

9 lbs

10.1 lbs

10.1 lbs

Power

1255 W

1350 W

1300 W

1300 W

Price

176 $

132.00 $

159.00 $

181.25 $

Get them

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nespresso Essenza Mini?

If you want an espresso machine that is as compact as possible without sacrificing the benefits of pod technology, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is your best bet. With the new Essenza Mini machine, you can have the best cup of coffee every time because of its simple design, sleek appearance, and superior quality. The little machine makes Nespresso coffee accessible to a broad audience.

If you want a compact machine that can make great-tasting espresso at home on a budget, look no further than the Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine.

Who makes the Essenza Mini?

The Essenza Mini is a collaboration between Nespresso, Breville (Australia), and De’Longhi (Italy). Both variants serve the same purpose but have slightly different designs. Each machine provides consistent results since it uses Nespresso’s high-quality internal components. Breville produces the Essenza Mini C, a more classic model, and DeLonghi has the Essenza Mini D, a more contemporary one. The espresso made by either Nespresso machine is the same, as is the quality of the device and the price. Therefore, you shouldn’t base your choice on your allegiance to a particular brand.

What Pods are compatible with Nespresso Essenza mini?

Only Nespresso capsules can be used in the Essenza Mini; ground coffee will not work. These capsule machines are more hygienic than ordinary espresso makers. Since the tablets require no special training, these machines are great for getting into the field.

Although, capsules have a lot of restrictions. There are 24 unique flavors of Nespresso capsules, but you can only use one. Changing the brewing process, such as crushing the beans for a more authentic taste, is not an option. Here are some of the best capsules recommended for this machine:

Recommended guide: Best Nespresso Pods of 2023 that tastes great

Does Nespresso Essenza mini use original pods?

The coffee capsules from Nespresso’s Original line are compatible with the Essenza Mini. Amazon offers a wide selection, as does Nespresso, and both provide automatic delivery options.

Read about: Best Nespresso Vertuo Coffee Pods & Capsules

Also read: The Best Espresso Machines of 2023 | Tried and Tested

Can you make coffee in Nespresso Essenza mini?

Coffee machines that produce either average or high-quality brews can be purchased for a reasonable price. Although it can’t make drip coffee, the Essenza Mini makes a mean Americano. On the other hand, if you’re set on sticking to regular coffee and have already decided on espresso and Americano, VertuoLine is the way to go. Here are the best podes recommended for this:

Does the Nespresso Essenza mini have a frother?

No milk frother is included in the Essenza Mini, so if you want to make milk-based drinks, you’ll need to purchase a separate Nespresso Aeroccino milk frother. You may relax knowing that Aeroccino is easily portable and operates with the push of a button. Aeroccino brings you a delicious latte, cappuccino, or Frappuccino at your convenience.

Also read : Why is Nespresso Milk Frother Not Working? (11 ways to fix it)

Is it essential to cleanse the Essenza Mini after every brew?

Your Nespresso machine can be adequately descaled with the help of a kit provided by the Nespresso club. Buy a descaling kit right now. To keep your appliances running smoothly, descale them once a year if you have soft water. A reminder that twice yearly descale is required for hard water. If you are willing to know if you have hard water, look in the water tank; it will leave white marks if you do.

Refill the tank with clean water consistently. Throw away your used capsules. Maintain a consistent schedule of emptying the capsule holder and wiping out the drip tray. Water should be brewed without a tablet by pushing any coffee button before making your first cup. After each use, turn on the device’s cleaning cycle if it has an integrated milking system.

As the water in the cup heats up, you can rinse the coffee’s extraction mechanism and prepare for a more enjoyable coffee experience.

What cup sizes can you brew with Nespresso Essenza Mini? 

The Essenza Mini can produce various Barista-style coffees, including espresso (1.35 ounces) and lungo (3.7 ounces). The brew size may be changed quickly and easily with the two buttons provided. Regrettably, it does not produce acceptable coffee.

Recommended guide: Nespresso Pod Sizes: Everything You Need to Know

Can you make a latte with the Nespresso Essenza Mini?

In one way and another, no. The espresso shots for lattes can be prepared with the Essenza Mini because it is an espresso maker. You’ll need a separate milk frother or steamer to make latte art, as there isn’t one included. Cost-effectiveness is ensured by adding the Aeroccino3 milk frother, sold separately, to the bundle.

Since the Essenza Mini does not come with a milk frother, you must purchase the Nespresso Aeroccino milk frother separately if you wish to enjoy a latte or cappuccino. It’s easy to use; all you have to do is push a button, so you never have to worry about Aeroccino3, Aeroccino Plus, or Aeroccino4 and  Nespresso Ispirazione Ristretto Italiano at Amazon.

Recommended guide: Nespresso Milk Frother 3 Vs 4: Which Frother Is Better?

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