Best Nespresso machine of 2025: Our top pick for coffee lovers

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Update, June 3, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for best Nespresso machine remains unchanged, but we did update the write-up with some care instructions after long-term testing. We also added a handy specs chart to the bottom of the page.

Best Nespresso machine for 2025

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Other Nespresso machines we liked

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Factors to consider when choosing a Nespresso machine

Of course you want your machine to brew good coffee, fast. But you should also consider these factors:

• Eco-friendliness: The moment you start shopping for a single-serve coffee maker, you'll find that every brand touts sustainability. The bottom line, though, is that using coffee pods creates waste. Nespresso has made efforts to be more eco-friendly: You can recycle the aluminum capsules by dropping them off at nearly 300 locations or ordering free recycling bags. (If you live in New York City or Jersey City, N.J., you can toss used pods directly in your curbside blue recycling bins.)

• Size and weight: Many Nespressos don't have huge footprints — and they can be tucked away under cabinets when not in use. You should also look at a machine's weight before buying if there's a chance you'll have to drag it to a different spot on your counter regularly. The VertuoPlus clocks in at 10 pounds.

• Water tank capacity: If you'd rather not have to refill the water tank every time you want another cup of coffee, look for a reservoir that can hold at least 40 ounces (roughly enough for four cups). Don't leave water in the tank for extended periods of time; all machines instruct you to use fresh water for the best taste.

• Variety of cup sizes: Do you want to brew a shot of espresso and call it a day? Or are you looking for a pod machine that can make a wide range of drinks, from shots to 8-ounce mugs to 18-ounce carafes? Nespresso Vertuo machines make the widest array of servings; Nespresso Original machines make only traditional espresso servings, from 0.85 to 5 ounces.

• Variety of drink types: With Vertuo machines, your drink is determined by which Vertuo pod you use. That said, some Nespresso machines are designed with specific drinks in mind. For example, the Vertuo Creatista has an integrated steam wand that froths milk for drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. And the compact Vertuo Pop+ is being sold as part of an iced coffee bundle with an ice cube tray and tumbler.

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How we tested Nespresso machines

I made coffee ... and coffee ... and more coffee, until it seemed like I should just call myself a barista. In all seriousness, I evaluated every Nespresso machine from the moment I opened the box to its final brew. I used each one a minimum of five times, with an 8-ounce serving of coffee and an espresso shot as my control. I timed each machine to see how quick it was, and I used a food thermometer to test the temperature of each freshly brewed cup. If the machine came with additional features (like a built-in milk frother), I used them multiple times as well.

I also had less-technical considerations. I looked for a sleek design, minimal maintenance and high-end finishes. After all, most of us keep our coffee machine on the counter in broad daylight — I wanted our top pick to look as good as it functioned.

Taste is subjective, so I kept my notes on flavor to a minimum and instead focused on how hot the coffee was, its mouthfeel, the level of crema and whether there was any grittiness or sediment left in the bottom of the mug.

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Nespresso machine FAQs

Which Nespresso machine is best for everyday coffee?

If you're looking for a regular cup of joe, you should pick a machine from Nespresso's Vertuo line. These coffee makers can brew shots as well as 8-ounce cups of coffee (and even larger sizes in some cases).

What's the difference between Nespresso machines?

All Nespresso machines can make espresso, but beyond that, the machines do have their differences. They vary in size, design, color and the types/sizes of drinks they can make. Original machines use different coffee pods than Vertuo machines, and they also extract the coffee differently. Original machines use high pressure; Vertuo models rely on what Nespresso calls Centrifusion technology, which spins the pod rapidly, mixing the grounds with hot water.

How do you clean a Nespresso machine?

Generally, you should rinse the water tank regularly and hand-wash any removable components. As with any coffee maker, you'll need to deep clean or descale it every three or so months (or whenever your machine's descale light turns on). Nespresso sells a descaling solution that occasionally goes on sale.

How do you use a Nespresso machine?

The best part about a Nespresso machine is that you don't need to be a tech wizard to use it. Most of the machines have only a few buttons at most, and they're pretty self-explanatory. If you need pointers, I recommend ignoring the paper instruction manual and instead checking Nespresso's website, which has how-to videos and manuals that, for some reason, are often different from what's in the box and more user-friendly. I referred to the videos a lot and found them very helpful.

Where do you buy Nespresso pods?

You can buy them directly from Nespresso or at various retailers including Amazon, Target, Macy's and Walmart (though you can't get them in most grocery stores). Some brands sell pods that are compatible with Original line machines, but if you have a Vertuo machine, you can use only the proprietary Nespresso capsules for that line.

How much caffeine is in a Nespresso pod?

According to Nespresso, four to five cups of Original Nespresso coffee and two to five cups of Vertuo coffee add up to 300 to 400 milligrams of caffeine, which is the amount a healthy adult can safely consume in a day.

Is Keurig or Nespresso better?

It's a matter of personal taste. Both companies make a range of machines with various bells and whistles. Keurig machines typically are more affordable (they start at a retail price of $90 to Nespresso's $130), whereas Nespresso machines are better known for coffee quality.

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Best Nespresso machine specs comparison chart

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