Want to get espresso drinks in the comfort of your home but don’t have espresso-machine-money? Then chances are you’ve been browsing Nespresso’s line-up. So today we’re looking at two of the most popular budget picks, Nespresso Inissia vs Pixie.
Nespresso Overview
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of the Nespresso Inissia vs Pixie, let’s talk about the brand behind the two coffee brewers: Nespresso.
Nespresso is a Switzerland based brand connected to the Nestlé Group. They produce both pod-based espresso machines and proprietary coffee pods. While that might sound pretty similar to other single-serve brewers out there, Nespresso products are a bit different for several reasons:
- Nespresso pods are recyclable, and the company makes an effort to create a closed production loop
- Their pods are also airtight, making for better flavor preservation
- Nespresso brewers are aimed to mimic espresso machines and espresso brews
Why go with Nespresso?
The main 2 reasons you would choose a Nespresso machine (1) convenience and (2) cost. Not only are these single-serve brewers simple, fast, and user-friendly, they are also more cost and space-efficient than your typical espresso machine.
Though you aren’t going to get a full-blown shot of espresso from these brewers, you will get a stronger brew than your average coffee maker. All in all, these are a great option for coffee newbies and those looking to have a quick coffee fix without breaking the bank.
Brand Standards
Just about every machine in the espresso line-up comes with multiple brew-size options, a removable drip tray, and a removable water tank. Additionally, many of the brewers also include a capsule container, so you don’t have to discard the used capsule after each brew. Plus, line most single-serve brewers, Nespresso machines heat up in less than 30 seconds.
Nespresso has two lines of brewers and pods: Nespresso OriginalLine and Nespresso VertuoLine. Both of the coffee brewers we are looking at today are a part of the OriginalLine and use OriginalLine capsules. Unlike the VertuoLine, you should be able to find some off-brand dupes for these capsules.
Nespresso Inissia vs Pixie Showdown
Common Grounds
To start, there are actually a lot of similarities between these two brewers. They are both low-budget, space-saving single-serve machines. They are perfect for dorms and studio apartments where counter space is at a premium and money is tight.
While we specifically feature the Inissia in our Best Nespresso Machine breakdown for its price, we do mention both machines. Let me tell you, it was quite a close call between them. This is why:
Both the Inissia and Pixie are part of Nespresso’s OriginalLine of machines, and both can brew both a standard espresso and lungo with just a touch of a button. Furthermore, each machine utilizes 19 bars of pressure, a single boiler, and a 24 oz water reservoir.
Additionally, as we mentioned they both have very modest footprints. The Inissia measures 4.7″ x 9″ x 12.6″ (42.3″ sq) while the Pixie is ever so slightly smaller at 4.4″ x 9.3″ x 12.8″ (40.9″ sq). They both feature a removable drip tray and auto power-off functionality (meaning they will shut off after 9 minutes of inactivity).
Plus, both machines are the result of collaborations with industry leaders in espresso machine production (De’Longhi and Breville). So you know they are high-quality brewers, despite the fact that they are single-serve machines.
These machines are pretty much neck in neck on a number of fronts, so let’s talk about how they differ.
Nespresso Inissia by De’Longhi
In a nutshell, the Nespresso Inissia is a more budget-friendly option due to its more cost-efficient construction. It’s great for those who are on a particularly tight budget and don’t want to sacrifice on taste.
Read our full review of the Nespresso Inissia here.
Things we like:
- Nespresso Inissia is the less expensive model
- Has a dedicated power button on the side of the machine
- Slightly higher wattage helps ensure you get a hot cup of Joe
Things we don’t:
- The machine is lighter, making it feel less sturdy
- Uses a plastic construction, so it is less durable
- No low-water indicator
Details
The Nespresso Inissia has more color options vs the Nespresso Pixie. This model is available in black, red, cream, white, chrome, and silver. However, we did not mention this as one of our main pros because, honestly, the black model has the sleekest look in our opinion. The plastic construction makes the other color options (especially cream and silver) look a bit cheap.
That said, we do like that this model can still look as sleek and modern as it does, considering its price point. Furthermore, we preferred the addition of the dedicated power button. It allows you to turn off the machine immediately after brewing coffee, rather than waiting the extra 9 minutes for auto-off.
While the extra wattage has a very small margin when looking at the Nespresso pixie vs Inissia, every watt really does count when brewing. One of the most common complaints volleyed against capsule brewers like these Nespresso machines is that their coffee is not hot enough. The Inissia has about 40W more power.
Lastly, though we will discuss the construction factor a bit later, it is important to note that the Inissia is significantly lighter than the Pixie. While this may be a pro for some, it generally makes the machine feel cheaper and indicates that it likely won’t outlast its competition.
Nespresso Pixie by Breville
In a nutshell, the Nespresso Pixie is a slightly more premium option, with a sturdier build and better construction materials. If you have a little extra cash to spare, this might be the choice for you.
Read our full review of the Nespresso Pixie here.
Things we like:
- Studier build, including metal construction
- Heavier, more durable feel
- Includes an empty water tank indicator
Things we don’t:
- A bit pricier, though still affordable
- No dedicated power button
- Slightly less wattage
Details
The Nespresso Pixie comes in three colors: electric titan, carmine, and steel. While this is technically less than the Inissia, we do think all of the colors look nice and wouldn’t be an eyesore on your counter. Of the three, we like the titan the best.
Like the Inissia, we appreciate the sleekness of the Pixie. With an even smaller footprint and aluminum/stainless steel construction, the Pixie looks and feels a bit more professional. Plus, the addition of the empty water tank indicator light makes this model more user-friendly. Considering the water reservoir is on the small side, this is a huge plus.
On the other hand, the design did come at the expense of a dedicated power button, which we found ourselves missing on this model. Additionally, while the difference in wattage is pretty minor, it struck us as a little odd to have that discrepancy, especially since the Pixie is typically considered the “stepped-up” model.
Nonetheless, this machine generally feels heftier and, due to its construction, will likely prove more durable and reliable.
Things to Consider
Construction
As we discussed above, one of the biggest differences between these two coffee machines is their construction. When comparing the Nespresso Inissia vs Pixie side-by-side, the difference is pretty obvious even at first glance.
While the design of both models is sleek and modern, the metal construction of the Pixie means it features metal paneling on the outside as well as metal internal components. Compared to the plastic components of the Inissia, it is a rather noticeable difference.
Construction is important when looking at espresso-style brewers because the pressure needed to create anything resembling espresso is considerable. Thus, even though the wattage of the Pixie is technically lower and the price is higher, we think it will outlast the Inissia in the long run.
Durability
In a similar vein, the durability of your machine is pretty important. To be honest, neither the Inissia nor the Pixie is particularly delicate, meaning they are great choices for people who often move or simply those who inhabit more high-traffic or chaotic environments (eg. an office space or a dorm room).
However, due to the construction materials discussed above, the Pixie does slightly edge out the Inissia on this point.
Price
In contrast, the Inissia has a leg up on the Pixie when it comes to the price. Usually coming in between $30-90 less than the competition. While the margin can be pretty small, sometimes every dollar counts. Plus, at it’s best, it can be a sweet price gap.
The Verdict
When it comes down to it, these single-serve “espresso” brewers are pretty darn similar. In terms of usability, they are neck-in-neck; one has a power button and the other has an indicator light. The biggest differences are the construction and price.
If you want something that is likely to last a little bit longer and be a tad more durable, go for the Pixie. On the other hand, if you need to save a few bucks, you won’t be missing out on too much by choosing the Inissia. Nespresso did great on both of these brewers, so you won’t really go wrong with either of them!
