From that morning shot of espresso to a flat white or cappuccino - here are the best Nespresso machines to get barista-style coffee in the comfort of your own home

eed that caffeine fix to get you through the morning? Are you after a quick and easy way to brew coffee but fussy about your flavours? Nespresso is well known for its range of aroma and roast coffee pods that can provide high-quality brews at the touch of a button.

From Americano to Espresso, a Flat White or Cappuccino, Nespresso pods offer an efficient and mess-free way to create your cup of Joe in an instant. With a range of Nespresso machines on the market including brands such as Magimix, Sage and Krups, we’ve done the research on the best models you can add to your kitchen today.

Whilst the coffee will inevitably taste the same, Nespresso machines vary quite considerably in terms of their efficiency, features and style. Here are some factors you may wish to consider before making your choice.

With this in mind, here’s our verdict on the best Nespresso machines in 2022.

Type of pods: Vertuo pods

As easy as popping a pod inside and pressing one button to operate, the Vertuo Next is described by Nespresso as the “smallest and most versatile Nespresso machine ever”.

Compared to the Nespresso Vertuo Plus, it has a slightly smaller footprint and slimline design which means it can fit even into the smallest of kitchens. As well as its ability to produce five different cup sizes, it also provides the option to brew a 530ml carafe of coffee - ideal for those who like their caffeine fix in larger quantities. It still benefits from the centrefusion technology and barcode reading, meaning you get the perfect specification and thick crema every single time.

A slightly more energy-efficient model than its predecessor, the Vertuo Next has an auto shut-off after just two minutes of inactivity and has a compatible Bluetooth app, allowing you to closely monitor your stock levels of Vertuo pods and reorder when required.

Need to buy a separate milk frother if you fancy a latte

Type of pods: Nespresso Vertuo

Milk frother: Available with or without

If you’re looking for a great all-rounder Nespresso machine that can cater for a range of coffee preferences, the Magimix Vertuo Plus offers five different cup sizes to choose from; everything from an espresso to a lungo.

With automatic capsule detection and barcode technology, the Vertuo Plus will automatically adjust the settings and amount of water to ensure the perfect coffee every time, using 7000 revolutions a minute to deliver a rich, thick crema topping.

Quick to use, with low volume operation, you can easily make your morning coffee without waking the entire household, whilst the drip tray is simple and straightforward to clean.

Overall the Vertuo Plus is an affordable and versatile Nespresso option, but it is worth noting that this machine only takes Vertuo Line Nespresso pods which are patented and currently slightly more expensive. It comes with a range of complimentary pods included to start you off, allowing you to experiment with a few different flavours before you commit to your choice.

Offers versatility in drink choice and size

Centrofusion technology creates a thick, rich crema

Only takes Nespresso Vertuo capsules

Type of pods: Standard Nespresso pods

Milk frother: Automatic steam wand

If you’re searching for a fuss-free way to create quality coffee with a thick, frothy finish, the Cretista Uno is a great place to start.

When you’re regularly running late, you’ll be pleased to know it heats up and is ready to go in just three seconds flat, with an easy and simple-to-use control panel. There’s a choice of volume settings including lungo, espresso and ristretto, and you can also select from a choice of three different temperatures for your milk. You can even specify your preferred amount of froth.

For a latte, flat white or cappuccino lover, the incorporated steam wand and the included stainless steel barista milk jug with a pour spout will allow you to create some fun and creative barista-style latte art at home.

We love the energy-saving mode where the machine pops into standby after 10 minutes of inactivity.

Can be noisier than other models

Can’t clean the majority of parts in the dishwasher

Type of pods: Standard Nespresso pods

Dimensions: 33cm x 8.4cm x 20.4cm

If some of the Nespresso price tags leave you wincing at the prospect, the Krups Nespresso Essenza is a no-frills machine that comes at a more budget-friendly RRP.

The small and compact design of the Essenza also makes it a popular choice with those who want to add a Nespresso maker to their kitchen without taking up valuable countertop space. It’s even small enough to take with you on road trips if you can’t bear the thought of surviving on instant during your weekends away.

Don’t be fooled into thinking the lower price tag means lower quality, however - this Nespresso machine has a 19-bar high-performance pump and still heats up quickly in around 25 seconds. Whilst perhaps best suited to making espressos, its removable drip tray allows it to accommodate taller latte glasses too.

It’s worth remembering that the smaller size of this Nespresso machine means the capsule container fills up quickly and the water capacity is only 0.6L. However that’s a minor sacrifice in exchange for its small size and affordability.

May want to buy a separate milk frother

Type of pods: Original Nespresso pods

If the design of your Nespresso machine is important and you’re after something that looks a little more impressive on your countertop, you will love the sleek brushed aluminium of the De’Longhi Nespresso Lattissima Pro.

Boasting an LED illuminated screen that highlights menu options even during the early morning haze, it also offers a metal drip tray and espresso cup support for both practicality and style.

The Lattissima Pro includes a single-touch milk carafe and automatic frothing system for creating the perfect cappuccinos or lattes. You need just 25 seconds heat up time to get it going and you can choose from six preset beverages. Drinks can also be personalised and added to memory so you can recreate your perfect choice at the touch of a button.

We love the large empty capsule capacity and the auto-clean system - but if you’re only after an espresso, you may be paying a premium for features you just don’t need.

Drip tray isn’t the easiest to clean

Type of pods: Nespresso pods and Grind Nespresso compatible pods

Milk frother: No (available to buy separately)

If you love your coffee, then chances are you may already have heard of Grind, who own several stylish espresso bars across London as well as its own range of whole bean and ground coffee blends.

Compatible with both original Nespresso pods and Grind Nespresso compatible pods, the Grind One is a retro-style Nespresso machine that unlikely many other designs, is made entirely from polished stainless steel. With aeroplane-style switches and a simple handle operation, it will look elegant and classic in any kitchen.

The machine has a 1.2L water reservoir with a handle for easy filling and a large empty pod container which can house up to 15 empty pods before it needs emptying - Grind has considered both practicality and style when creating this design. There’s even an adjustable drip tray to accommodate a range of glass (or mug) sizes.

If you’re a fan of fancy displays and LED, however, it’s fair to say this isn’t the Nespresso machine for you - the Grind Nespresso machine works via a simple handle whilst the 19-bar pressure pump helps gather every drop.

For its affordability, versatility and eco-friendly credentials, the Nespresso Vertuo Next is our recommendation for a simple and effective pod coffee solution at home.

It has a tiny footprint that’ll fit every kitchen set-up and a versatile choice of beverage types. We love the option for a larger carafe of coffee - ideal for those of us who are working from home and need to keep those energy levels up through into the afternoon.

Whilst it doesn’t have a milk frother, they are available to purchase separately, whilst the thick crema produced via Vertuo’s Centrofusion technology should certainly satisfy the majority.