Buying a new appliance for a small kitchen is no less than a challenge. After all, while sitting in a small corner, it should deliver superb results. That’s what Nespresso Essenza Mini champions. Being the most compact espresso maker by Nespresso-it is an excellent option for your short space. But is that its only USP? Or it offers more?
Find out the complete first-hand Nespresso Essenza Mini review here at Buy for Pantry. So, keep reading what appealed to me and what did not.
Nespresso Essenza Mini (One-Minute Review)
Nespresso Essenza Mini is a small, simple, and aesthetically beautiful coffee machine designed to fit in the smallest space. Its humanized design—easy-to-lift insertion lever and two buttons for all operations makes barista-style coffee in less than a minute.
The espresso (40ml) and lungo (110ml) it brews are rich and full-flavored, with a distinctive thick layer of crema. With the 20.3 oz. of water tank, the appliance can make 10 cups of coffee at once.
The Essenza Mini coffee maker is an energy-saving appliance. In case of inactivity for 3-minute its eco mode slows down the energy consumption, and if it is inactivity for 9 minutes, it automatically turns off.
Overview: Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso maker
Nespresso launches espresso machines under two categories—Original Line and Vertuo Line. The two categories differ. While the Original Line uses a 19-bar pressure pump to pull each rich espresso shot, the Vertuo Line uses Centrifusion technology. The small and mighty Essenza Mini belongs to the first category.
Designed in partnership with De’Longhi and Breville in the U.S. and Canada and Krups and Magimix in the U.K., the appliance makes lip-smacking espresso and lungo. Its slim, attractive design and simplicity make it the smallest and easiest Nespresso machine to use and clean.
Don’t be agonized about the price. The Essenza Mini offers the services for a still purse-friendly buck.
Specifications
Weight: | 5.1 pounds |
Dimensions: | 4.3 x 8.1 x 12.8 inches |
Pressure: | 19 bars |
Settings: | Espresso (1.35 ounces) and lungo (5 ounces) |
Water Tank Capacity: | 20.3 ounces (0.6 liters) |
Used Capsule Capacity: | 5-6 capsules |
Power Saving: | 3-minute eco-mode and 9-minute auto-off |
Heat Up Time: | 25-30 seconds |
Capsule Type: | Nespresso Original pods. |
Pros
- Heat up in 25 seconds.
- Bin holds up to 5-6 reused capsules.
- Two-year warranty.
- Great lifespan.
- Easy-to-clean.
- Available in shades.
- Price in budget.
Cons
- The water reservoir at the back is arduous to monitor and access.
- No water refill indicator.
- Noisy for 10-15 seconds.
- Compatible only with Nespresso Original pods.
Nespresso Essenza Mini Review (Detailed)
Design
- Slim-fit design.
- Lightweight.
- Available in shades.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee machine comes in a no-frill design. It is a simple design appliance available in classic to vibrant shades to fit one’s aesthetic. While the Breville models come in single-color variants, De’Longhi Essenza Mini comes in all-black and dual-tone shades. The two models also differ in structure. While De’Longhi has a more rounded head, Breville’s head is more rectangular.
Essenza Mini coffee maker has a slim-fit design to fit the smallest available space. It weighs only five pounds and measures 3.3 x 13 x 8 inches; incredibly small. The footprints are slim, and the detachable water tank (20.3 oz.) sits at the back without consuming extra space. Relocating it goes hassle-free.
The appliance has a plastic body with a customary appeal, if not high-class.
Settings
- Easy-to-lift insertion lever.
- One-touch buttons for all operations.
With the Essenza Mini coffee maker—Breville or De’Longhi models, coffee making; truly becomes quick and easy. Credits go to the revolutionary easy-to-lift lever and two humanized buttons, each of which is a one-touch button for all operations.
Lift the lever, insert the pods or capsules, push it down, and select the cup size—espresso or lungo. With a single press, the machine heats up, starts the brewing, and dispenses off the rich extraction. Beginner-friendly indeed!
When I lifted the lever for the second use, the used capsule got dumped into the capsule bin.
Coffee Quality
- Barista-style.
- Full-flavored coffee.
- Distinctive thick crema.
Is it that classic Nespresso crema you want? Essenza Mini won’t disappoint you. Despite being small, this mighty coffee maker uses a 19-bar pressure pump, and Nespresso’s patented extraction system delivers high-quality coffee with aroma retained. I was impressed with the complex blend of flavor and fragrance.
It brewed and extracted full-flavored, rich, intense espresso shots with crema. Both espresso and lungo were rich, well-rounded, topped with a thick layer of the beautiful, distinctive crema.
Capacity
- 20.3 oz. of water tank.
- 40ml espresso and 110ml lungo.
- Bin holds up the top 6 used capsules.
Nespresso Essenza Mini espresso machine justifies the saying: “Don’t go by the size”. It is the small espresso maker of the brand, but In terms of capacity, it is equivalent to the other editions.
It features a 20.3 oz. of refillable water reservoir, which makes at least 10 cups of coffee without refill.
So you can customize the coffee preference, the appliance comes with two brew sizes—espresso of 1.35 oz. (40ml) and lungo of 5 oz. (110ml). I tried both.
That’s not all. This basic Nespresso model has a removable capsule bin that holds up to six used capsules. The capsules are recyclable.
Speed
- No waiting period.
- Brew in less than 1 minute.
Besides its coffee quality, another lovable aspect of the Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine is its speed. The appliance, including the water in the tank, gets ready to use in just 25 seconds. For the De’Longhi model, it is 30 seconds.
As for the time taken for brewing, it depends on the selected cup size. My espresso shot filled in 15 seconds, and my lungo in 20 seconds. Hence, in less than 1-minute, it heats water, extract, and delivers rich, bold coffee.
Extra features
- Eco-mode slows power consumption.
- Auto-shut mode.
The Essenza Mini espresso machine; truly believes in energy conservation, whether it is a Breville model or De’Longhi you buy. It features two power-saving modes. The eco-mode slows down the energy consumption after 3 minutes of inactivity, and if it remains inactive for 9 minutes, the auto-shut mode turns it off after nine minutes.
Cleaning and Descaling
- Removable attachments.
- Automatic descaling cycle.
At first, Essenza Mini, like other Nespresso makers, comes with removable attachments like the drip tray, capsule container, and water tank. Wash them under warm soapy water and rinse well under running water. Secondly, the plastic exterior is easy to clean. I wiped it with a dampened cloth, which left the appliance gleaming.
And now comes the descaling segment. Depending on your water hardness: the appliance needs descaling after 300 to 1,200 espresso making. It is easy to descale. Just as it does most work, it descales automatically through a 15-minute cycle, the details of which are well-described in the manual.
Nespresso recommends using its descaling packet for each deep clean. It is available through the company’s website.
We have a dedicated guide on how to descale Essenza Mini!
Price and Warranty
- Two-year warranty.
- Great lifespan.
- Price in budget.
The Essenza Mini espresso maker is Nespresso’s one of the least expensive model. Considering the service it offers, at around $169, you get a streamlined coffee machine. The price varies according to the manufacturing brand and offers. But to those for whom it may seem high, the investment pays. This appliance has a lifespan of 6-10 years.
The NespressoEssenza Mini espresso machine comes with a two years standard warranty. As stated, ”Nespresso warrants the product against defects in materials and workmanship for two years from the date of purchase. During this period, Nespresso will either repair or replace at its discretion any defective product at no charge to the owner. Replacement products or repaired parts will be guaranteed for only the unexpired portion of the original warranty or six months, whichever is greater.”
This warranty does not apply to any defect resulting from misuse, accident, improper maintenance, or normal wear and tear.
Krups Essenza Mini Review
As an avid coffee lover, finding the perfect espresso machine can be a challenge. However, the Nespresso Essenza Mini has exceeded all my expectations. This compact machine is not only sleek in design but also user-friendly.
Here are a few reasons why I like this product:
- The machine is easy to place in any kitchen or home. It’s small and light enough to move around but sturdy enough to feel like a permanent fixture.
- The interface is straightforward and easy to understand. I was able to program my favorite coffee selections in no time and appreciate the automatic flow-stop feature for consistent brewing.
- The high-tech 19-bar high-pressure pump ensures that my espresso is consistently high-quality and delicious.
- The two programmable coffee selections make it easy to switch between an espresso shot and a lungo.
- The automatic flow-stop ensures consistent results every time.
Product Description: I’ve been using the Nespresso Essenza Mini a lot since I received it, and it’s fair to say I’m hooked. The first thing I noticed was how compact it is. It’s only 8.4cm wide, 20.4cm tall, and 33cm long, so it hardly takes up any space on my kitchen counter. Setting it up was a breeze, and I appreciated that it heats up quickly, taking only a few seconds to be ready to brew.
The handy interface is straightforward to use. I love the automatic flow-stop feature, which ensures consistency every time I make a cup of coffee. The 19-bar high-pressure pump is powerful and extracts the best flavor out of the Nespresso capsules.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is not just functional; it’s aesthetically pleasing too. I’m extremely impressed by its sleek and modern design. Even when not in use, it’s an attractive addition to my kitchen.
What’s in the Package:
- Nespresso Essenza Mini Machine
- Welcome package with 14 capsules
Pros
- Compact and easy-to-use design
- The two programmable coffee settings match my preference for espressos and lungos
- Fast heat-up system and automatic flow-stop feature make brewing consistent and quick
Cons
- The water tank only holds enough water for a few cups of coffee, which means it needs constant refilling.
- The machine makes a bit of noise when brewing coffee.
- Nespresso capsules are slightly expensive compared to traditional coffee brewing methods.
The Low Points
With so many high points: the Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee maker also has a few downsides, which never obstruct the performance and yield. Down below are those 5-low points.
- Since the water reservoir sits at the back, monitoring and accessibility are arduous.
- There is no indicator to notify water refill.
- Essenza Mini doesn’t include milk froth accessories and other coffee-type options.
- The appliance is not silent. It vibrates and makes noise only while brewing into the cup for 10-15 seconds.
- The Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee maker is compatible only with Nespresso Original pods, which are expensive.
What’s in the box:
If you have planned to buy a Nespresso Essenza Mini espresso machine, you will be pleased to know that it will come with a few extra bonuses.
The box contains:
- Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso machine.
- Instruction manual.
- Information folder.
- Complimentary starter set of 16 coffee pods.
Tips for Essenza Mini Nespresso machine
Do you want your Nespresso Essenza Mini machine to remain functional for a long time and be able to deliver delicious espressos? Please refer to the following rules:
- Strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Prefer quality capsules for best results.
- Clean and descale the machine periodically.
- Descale with the descaling products offered by Nespresso.
- Regularly empty the capsule container.
FAQs about the Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee maker
Is the Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee maker worth it?
Yes. The Essenza Mini is a well-built and the most reasonable Nespresso coffee maker. If you are searching for a compact yet mighty and super-fast espresso machine without breaking the bank, this model could be for you. With an automatic descaling program, an impressively compact structure, and two brew sizes, the Essenza Mini is the best option to start coffee brewing on a budget.
Can I prepare a latte with the Nespresso Essenza Mini espresso maker?
Yes. To create cappuccinos and lattes with your Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee machine: purchase a separate milk frother. Or, the best option is to go for the Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee machine and Aeroccino milk frother combo.
What pods can I use in an Essenza Mini espresso machine?
Essenza Mini coffee maker, like other Nespresso machine, are compatible with the brand’s Original capsules.
How is the Essenza Mini different from Essenza Plus?
Though similar in coffee quality and speed Essenza Plus is the large version of the Essenza Mini coffee machine. It is a machine, more versatile, and has more brew options. You can brew two sizes of Americano with the regular Nespresso list of espresso and lungo.
How long do Nespresso Essenza Mini coffee machines last?
All Nespresso machines last 6-10 years under routine maintenance schedules and periodic descaling. Without proper care, the Nespresso machine may last only a few years. The Essenza Mini Nespresso coffee maker is more practical than the other models of the brand due to its ultra-compact design.
Final Verdict – Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker Review
Picture this: a sleek and stylish coffee maker sitting proudly on your kitchen counter, radiating an air of sophistication. The Essenza Mini not only looks the part but delivers on every front. Don’t be fooled by its small size; this mighty machine packs a punch with features that will make every coffee lover’s heart skip a beat.
With two programmable cup sizes, you have the power to customize your coffee experience. Whether you crave a bold and robust shot to jumpstart your day or prefer a smooth and indulgent sip to unwind in the evening, the Essenza Mini caters to your desires. It’s like having a personal barista at your command, ready to create the perfect cup every single time.
But that’s not all—prepare to be amazed by the 19 bars of pressure this little champion possesses. What does that mean for you? Unparalleled extraction and a heavenly crema that will make your taste buds sing. Say goodbye to mediocre espresso and hello to a velvety smooth texture that tantalizes your senses.
And let’s not forget about the vibrant color options available for the Essenza Mini. Break away from the monotonous sea of kitchen appliances with bold and captivating hues that reflect your personality. Make a statement with a fiery red, exude elegance with a deep black, or opt for a refreshing white that brightens up your space. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
So, if you’re searching for a coffee maker that combines affordability, style, and exceptional performance, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is the answer. Elevate your mornings, dazzle your guests, and embark on a coffee adventure that will leave you craving for more. It’s time to indulge in the perfect espresso experience.