Nespresso CitiZ vs Nespresso Pixie

Quick take: The Nespresso Pixie costs $90 less.

SpecNespresso CitiZNespresso Pixie
Standout features34 oz Removable Water Tank, Folding Cup Tray for Tall GlassesAluminum Side Panels, Folding Drip Tray
Approx. price~$319~$229
TypePod/CapsulePod/Capsule
BoilerThermoblockThermoblock
Built-in grinderNoNo
Pump pressure19 bar19 bar
Water capacity34 oz24 oz
Warm-up time25 seconds25 seconds
Steam wand
Basket type
Best forDesign-Conscious Espresso DrinkersTiny Kitchens
Dimensions5.1 x 14.6 x 10.9 in4.4 x 12.8 x 9.3 in
Weight7.5 lbs6.6 lbs
Warranty1 year1 year

Pros & cons

Nespresso CitiZ

  • Real 19-bar pump extraction of OriginalLine capsules delivers proper crema-topped espresso
  • 34 oz water tank brews roughly ten shots between refills - noticeably more than the Pixie
  • Folding cup tray fits tall latte glasses under the spout, rare for a slim pod machine
  • OriginalLine format accepts cheap third-party capsules from dozens of roasters
  • No milk frothing built in - the Aeroccino bundle pushes the total past $370
  • Only two cup sizes (espresso and lungo), so no barcode-style automatic drink variety
  • Drip tray area stains and shows spills quickly on the glossy finish
  • Costs $140 more than the Essenza Mini while making functionally identical shots

Nespresso Pixie

  • Real 19-bar pump extraction of OriginalLine capsules - proper crema, unlike centrifugal Vertuo machines
  • At 4.4 inches wide it squeezes into spots no other pump machine can
  • OriginalLine format means cheap third-party capsules from dozens of roasters work fine
  • Metal side panels and folding drip tray feel built to last versus plasticky rivals
  • Tiny 24 oz water tank empties after about five espressos
  • No milk frothing at all - an Aeroccino or separate frother adds $50-100
  • Only two cup sizes (espresso and lungo) with no ristretto button
  • Costs more than the newer Essenza line while making the same shots

Nespresso CitiZ vs Nespresso Pixie: common questions

Which is cheaper, the Nespresso CitiZ or the Nespresso Pixie?

The Nespresso Pixie is the cheaper of the two at roughly $229, about $90 less than the Nespresso CitiZ at ~$319. Both figures are approximate list prices and street prices move with sales.