When comparing the Nespresso Pixie and Citiz, both machines stand out for their ability to craft excellent espresso, and their compact, lightweight designs make them ideal for both home and office use. However, when taking a closer look, the Nespresso Citiz edges out the Pixie in terms of overall convenience and versatility, making it my preferred choice.
The Nespresso Citiz offers several additional features that enhance its usability. It comes equipped with a larger water tank, which means fewer refills are needed, making it particularly advantageous for those who enjoy multiple cups of coffee throughout the day. The double drip tray is another thoughtful addition, accommodating both small espresso cups and larger mugs, which adds to the machine’s versatility. Furthermore, the Citiz makes capsule loading easier and smoother, streamlining the brewing process.
That said, the Nespresso Pixie is still an excellent option, particularly for those who prioritize design and budget. Its smaller water reservoir is ideal for users who don’t mind more frequent refills or have limited counter space. The Pixie’s design is also more compact and sleek, which can appeal to those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic. Additionally, the Pixie is generally more budget-friendly, making it a great choice for those who want a high-quality espresso machine without a higher price tag.
Ultimately, both the Nespresso Pixie and Citiz excel in what they do, but the Citiz’s enhanced features give it a slight edge for those who prioritize convenience and versatility in their coffee-making experience. However, for those with a focus on design and budget, the Pixie remains a strong contender.
Nespresso Pixie Vs Citiz: Specs & Features Comparison
The Nespresso Citiz and Pixie models are both designed for convenient and quick espresso brewing, utilizing the Nespresso capsule system and a 19-bar pump pressure to deliver rich, full-bodied espresso. The Citiz, with dimensions of 5.2 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches and a weight of 8.9 pounds, is slightly larger and heavier than the Pixie, which measures 4.4 x 12.8 x 9.3 inches and weighs 5.7 pounds. Both machines feature the Thermoblock heating system, allowing them to heat up in approximately 30 seconds. However, the Citiz stands out with its larger 34-ounce water tank, compared to the Pixie’s 24-ounce capacity, and a double drip tray that accommodates taller cups with a max clearance of 6.5 inches, making it more versatile for different cup sizes. The Pixie, on the other hand, is more compact and space-saving, with a single drip tray and a slightly higher used capsule container capacity of 11 pods, compared to the Citiz’s 9-pod container. Both models have an auto shut-off feature, ensuring energy efficiency. While the Citiz offers greater convenience with its larger water tank and double drip tray, the Pixie excels in portability and space efficiency, making both models excellent choices depending on the user’s specific needs.
Nespresso Pixie vs. Citiz: Differences
When comparing the Nespresso Pixie to the Citiz, the Citiz edges out with a score of 1-0 and three ties, largely due to its design offering more convenience. Here’s a closer look at their differences:
Flavor & Brewing Technology
Winner: Tie
Both machines deliver impressive performance with 19 bars of pump pressure, ensuring a perfect espresso shot. The Thermoblock heating system in both models heats up quickly, within 30 seconds, delivering piping hot espresso with a rich, velvety crema.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Nespresso Citiz
The Citiz is slightly larger and heavier, with dimensions of 5.2 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches and weighing 8.9 pounds, compared to the Pixie’s 4.4 x 12.8 x 9.3 inches and 5.7 pounds. The Citiz also features a double drip tray, allowing for easier accommodation of taller cups, while the Pixie is more compact, perfect for smaller spaces. Aesthetic differences also set them apart, with the Pixie boasting a sleek, stainless steel design and the Citiz offering more color options in hard plastic.
Water Tank
The Pixie’s 24-ounce water tank is efficient for about three cups of coffee, with a convenient LED indicator that signals when it’s time to refill. However, the Citiz outshines it with a larger 34-ounce tank, reducing the frequency of refills, ideal for those who prefer a more hands-off approach.
Drip Tray & Cup Clearance
The Citiz’s double drip tray and 6.5-inch cup clearance make it more versatile for different cup sizes, while the Pixie’s single drip tray offers 5.7 inches of clearance. The Citiz also allows the tray to be removed for additional space, which the Pixie lacks.
Capsule Loading
Both machines offer easy capsule loading, but the Citiz is slightly more straightforward, requiring less interaction with moving parts, adding to its user-friendly design.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Tie
Neither machine comes with a built-in milk frother, but both are compatible with the Aeroccino frother, available as a bundle option for those who enjoy lattes and cappuccinos.
Utilities
Winner: Tie
Both machines feature an auto shut-off for energy efficiency, with the Pixie turning off after nine minutes and the Citiz staying on a bit longer.
In summary, while both machines are excellent at brewing espresso, the Citiz’s larger water tank, double drip tray, and straightforward design give it an edge in convenience, making it the preferred choice for those who value these features. The Pixie remains a solid option for those prioritizing compactness and a sleek design.
Quick Rundown Of Nespresso Citiz
- Brand: Nespresso
- Color: Black
- Product Dimensions: 7.44″ D x 15.91″ W x 12.99″ H
- Special Feature: Removable Tank, Programmable
- Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
- Capacity: 2.1 Pounds
- Material: Plastic
- Item Weight: 7.5 Pounds
- Wattage: 1260 watts
The Nespresso CitiZ is a sleek and efficient espresso machine that combines high performance with elegant design. It features a powerful 19-bar pump system that ensures barista-quality single-serve coffee or espresso, fully extracting the rich flavors of each Nespresso Original Coffee capsule. The machine heats up rapidly, reaching the perfect brewing temperature in just 25 seconds, and includes an automatic energy-saving function that powers down the device after 9 minutes of inactivity, with an option to extend this to 30 minutes.
With its versatility, the CitiZ offers adjustable cup sizes, allowing you to choose between two programmable settings: Espresso (1.35 oz) and Lungo (5 oz), making it ideal for various coffee preferences. The machine’s design appeals to both espresso enthusiasts and those with an eye for style, adding a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. Weighing 7.5 pounds and constructed from durable plastic, the CitiZ is compact yet robust, with a removable 2.1-pound water tank for easy refills.
Additionally, the CitiZ comes with a complimentary welcome kit of Nespresso Original capsules, allowing you to explore a variety of unique aroma profiles right from the start. With a power rating of 1260 watts, this espresso machine is both fast and energy-efficient, making it a practical and stylish choice for coffee lovers.
Pros:
- Convenient and quick espresso brewing with Nespresso capsules.
- Compact design, ideal for small spaces.
- Double drip tray is handy and accommodates taller cups.
- Larger water tank for fewer refills.
Cons:
- Some parts are made of plastic.
Quick Rundown Of Nespresso Pixie
- Brand: Nespresso
- Color: Aluminum
- Product Dimensions: 4.37″D x 12.83″W x 9.25″H
- Special Feature: Programmable
- Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
- Capacity: 1100 Milliliters
- Material: Aluminum
- Item Weight: 6.6 Pounds
- Wattage: 1260 watts
About this item:
- Ultra-compact design: Elegant profile, ideal for urbanites with limited kitchen counter space.
- High-performance pump: 19-bar pump with automatic capsule piercing and brewing, featuring unique drop-stop technology. Fast heating time of only 25 seconds.
- Tactile interface: One-touch controls with 2 programmable buttons: Espresso and Lungo.
- Energy-saving: Power save mode automatically switches the machine off after 9 minutes of inactivity.
- Capsule compatibility: Works with Nespresso Original espresso capsules.
- Complimentary starter set: Includes a starter set of Nespresso Original capsules (capsule assortment may vary).
Pros:
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Used capsule disposal storage holds 10 used pods.
- Brews rich, full-bodied, and delicious espresso consistently.
- 19-bar pressure ensures excellent extraction.
- Rapid heating thanks to the Thermoblock system.
Cons:
- The power cord is 1 foot shorter than the cord of the Citiz.
- It has a smaller water tank.
Conclusion:
When choosing between the Nespresso Pixie and Citiz, both machines offer impressive performance and convenience, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. The Pixie stands out with its ultra-compact, space-saving design, making it ideal for those with limited counter space. Its sleek aluminum finish and efficient brewing system, combined with its smaller size, make it a great choice for urban environments.
On the other hand, the Nespresso Citiz excels in convenience and versatility. It features a larger water tank and a double drip tray, accommodating a wider range of cup sizes and reducing the need for frequent refills. The Citiz’s stylish design and larger capacity make it well-suited for households or offices where space is less of a concern and convenience is paramount.
Ultimately, if you value a compact machine that fits seamlessly into tight spaces, the Pixie is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more versatile and user-friendly option with added features like a larger water tank and a double drip tray, the Citiz would be the better fit. Both machines promise high-quality espresso with their 19-bar pressure systems, so your decision will hinge on your specific needs and preferences regarding design and functionality.