Product Detail
| Brand | Nespresso |
| Capacity | 2.1 Pounds |
| Color | Black |
| Product Dimensions | 7.44″D x 15.91″W x 12.99″H |
| Special Feature | Programmable, Removable Tank |
There is a distinct ritual to crafting the perfect espresso—the rich aroma, the velvety crema, that first invigorating sip. For years, achieving café-quality results at home meant investing in bulky, complex machinery that required a steep learning curve. The Nespresso CitiZ Original Espresso Machine changes that narrative entirely. It combines sleek, space-saving design with the engineering precision of a 19-bar pump, offering a bridge between amateur coffee lover and seasoned home barista. After spending extensive time with this unit, it’s clear that De’Longhi has refined the single-serve experience to near perfection.
Understanding the OriginalLine Advantage
Before diving into the hardware, it is crucial to understand why the Nespresso CitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, Black utilizes the OriginalLine system rather than the newer VertuoLine. This distinction is a primary selling point for purists.
The OriginalLine relies on a 19-bar high-pressure pump—the industry standard for true espresso extraction. Unlike the VertuoLine, which uses centrifugal force to spin the pod and create foam, the OriginalLine forces hot water through the coffee grounds under immense pressure. The result is a traditional espresso shot with a thick, golden-brown crema that sits atop the liquid like a crown. Furthermore, OriginalLine machines offer a wider variety of third-party pod compatibility, allowing users to explore roasts beyond the Nespresso brand. If you value authenticity in your espresso shot, this system is superior.
Sleek Design Meets Functional Engineering
De’Longhi is renowned for marrying aesthetics with functionality, and the black model of the CitiZ is a testament to that reputation. The unit features a compact, rectangular footprint that measures just 5.1 inches in width. This narrow profile makes it the best espresso machine for home environments where counter space is at a premium, such as city apartments or cozy kitchen nooks.
Despite its slim stature, the design feels premium. The black exterior offers a matte finish that resists fingerprints, while the metallic accents—particularly the polished lever handle—add a touch of modern sophistication. The machine is also user-friendly; the 40-ounce removable water tank is located at the back but can be repositioned to the side or swiveled to fit tight spaces, a clever feature that enhances its versatility as a compact espresso maker.
Performance: Speed, Pressure, and Crema
One of the most frustrating aspects of budget espresso makers is the waiting time. With the Nespresso CitiZ, that frustration is eliminated. The thermoblock heating system reaches the optimal brewing temperature in a mere 25 seconds. In practice, this means you can wake up, insert a capsule, press a button, and have your espresso pouring before you’ve fully rubbed the sleep from your eyes.
The 19-bar pump is the engine that drives this machine’s reputation. As the water is forced through the capsule, the extraction is consistent and even. I tested this with several different intensity levels of capsules, ranging from light roast to intense dark roast. In every instance, the machine delivered a balanced shot without bitterness or under-extraction. The crema produced is notably thick and persistent—a visual indicator of quality that cheaper machines fail to replicate.
The Aeroccino Integration: Mastering Milk Texture
No espresso machine review is complete without discussing milk preparation, especially for those who prefer lattes and cappuccinos. The Nespresso CitiZ often ships in a bundle that includes the Aeroccino milk frother, or it can be purchased alongside it.
The Aeroccino is a game-changer for convenience. It is a standalone unit that uses a quiet, magnetic whisking system to prepare milk in under a minute. You have three distinct options:
- Hot Foam: Ideal for a traditional cappuccino with a thick, dry foam top.
- Hot Milk: Perfect for a latte where you want silky, steamed milk without the thick foam.
- Cold Foam: A feature often overlooked, but excellent for iced lattes or cold foam cold brews.
Unlike manual steam wands, the Aeroccino produces a consistent texture every time without requiring any barista training. It also cleans up in seconds—a massive advantage for daily use.
Pros and Cons
To provide a balanced view, here are the summarized strengths and weaknesses of this machine based on real-world usage:
Pros
- Superior Espresso Quality: The 19-bar pump and OriginalLine system deliver authentic crema that rivals commercial machines.
- Ultra-Compact Footprint: At only 5.1 inches wide, it fits where most machines won’t.
- Lightning Fast: Ready to brew in 25 seconds.
- Energy Efficient: Automatically shuts off after 9 minutes of inactivity, saving electricity.
- Versatile Milk Frothing: The Aeroccino attachment offers hot and cold foam options.
Cons
- Capsule Cost: Like all pod-based systems, the per-cup cost is higher than buying bulk beans for a traditional machine.
- No Built-in Milk System: If you purchase the bundle without the Aeroccino, you will need to buy a separate frother for milk-based drinks.
- Water Tank Location: While adjustable, the rear-facing tank can be slightly awkward to remove for refilling if your cabinets are low.
Nespresso CitiZ vs. The Competition
How does this model stack up against other popular Nespresso machines? If you are comparing it to the Essenza Mini, the CitiZ offers a larger water tank capacity and a more premium build quality, though the Essenza Mini is slightly more portable. For those debating the OriginalLine vs VertuoLine ecosystem, the choice comes down to drink style. The VertuoLine is better suited for those who want a full 8-ounce cup of coffee, while the CitiZ is the definitive choice for espresso lovers who prioritize the intensity and authenticity of a short shot.
Additionally, compared to the Vertuo Next, the CitiZ is mechanically simpler, which often translates to higher long-term reliability. There are fewer moving parts in the extraction mechanism, making it a workhorse for daily use.
Final Worlds
The Nespresso CitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, Black successfully bridges the gap between convenience and authenticity. It does not require you to grind beans, tamp grounds, or monitor extraction times, yet it delivers a shot of espresso that is visually and texturally superior to what most automatic drip machines can produce.
This machine is ideal for the individual who respects the craft of espresso but lives a busy lifestyle. It is equally perfect for the apartment dweller who needs high performance without sacrificing counter real estate. While the ongoing cost of capsules is a factor to budget for, the consistency, speed, and quality you receive in return justify the investment.
If you are ready to elevate your morning routine and stop settling for diluted coffee masquerading as espresso, the CitiZ is the upgrade you have been waiting for. It turns the complex art of the espresso shot into a simple, one-touch reality.