Nespresso Essenza Mini vs Nespresso Vertuo Pop+
Quick take: The Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ costs $21 less; the Nespresso Essenza Mini heats up faster (25 seconds).
| Spec | Nespresso Essenza Mini | Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $150 | $129 |
| Rating | 4.5★ (18,000) | 4.3★ (2,331) |
| Type | Pod/Capsule | Pod/Capsule |
| Boiler | Thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Built-in grinder | No | No |
| Pump pressure | 19 bar | — |
| Water capacity | 20 oz | 25.4 oz |
| Warm-up time | 25 seconds | 30 seconds |
| Steam wand | — | — |
| Basket type | Capsule | — |
| Best for | Beginners | Beginners |
| Dimensions | 3.2 x 12.8 x 8 in | 8.6 x 14.0 x 10.4 in |
| Weight | 5.1 lbs | 7.7 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
Pros & cons
Nespresso Essenza Mini
- ✓Incredibly compact
- ✓Very affordable
- ✓Good espresso for pods
- ✓Simple operation
- ✗Locked to Nespresso pods
- ✗Tiny water tank
- ✗No milk steamer
- ✗Only 2 cup sizes
Nespresso Vertuo Pop+
- ✓Cheapest entry into the Vertuo line at $129, and frequently discounted under $100
- ✓Tiny footprint fits dorms, offices, and cramped counters
- ✓Barcode scanning auto-sets brew parameters for every capsule size from espresso to 12 oz
- ✓WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity keeps brewing firmware updated automatically
- ✗Uses centrifugal spinning, not 19-bar pump pressure - crema is frothy rather than true espresso
- ✗Small 25.4 oz water tank needs refilling constantly if you brew for two
- ✗Locked into pricier Vertuo capsules with no third-party alternatives
- ✗Brews slightly cooler than larger Vertuo models and runs loud at around 70 dB