I’ve noticed that a lot of people get confused when trying to choose between Nespresso’s two main product lines: Vertuo and Original. Specifically, they often struggle with picking between the Nespresso Citiz and Vertuo.
For me, the Nespresso Vertuo definitely takes the top spot. The larger water tank is a big plus, and I love that it can brew in four different cup sizes, giving me more options depending on my mood. The coffee flavor is fantastic, and that thick crema on top just makes the experience feel extra special. I highly recommend the Vertuo to anyone looking for versatility and a great coffee taste.
That being said, the Nespresso Citiz is a close second. It uses traditional brewing methods and makes a rich, flavorful espresso that’s perfect for anyone who’s a true espresso lover. Plus, its compatibility with a wider range of capsules is a great perk for those looking to mix things up and save a bit of money.
Nespresso Citiz vs Vertuo: Specs & Features Comparison
The Nespresso Vertuo and Nespresso Citiz are both excellent coffee machines, but they have some distinct differences. The Vertuo has a slightly larger footprint with dimensions of 9 x 12.2 x 12.3 inches, compared to the Citiz’s 14.6 x 5.2 x 10.9 inches, making the Citiz more compact and better suited for tight spaces. The Vertuo is heavier at 11 pounds, while the Citiz weighs 8.9 pounds, making it easier to move around.
When it comes to brewing, the Vertuo uses Centrifusion technology, which provides a unique method for extracting coffee, creating rich crema with every brew. The Citiz, on the other hand, uses a 19-bar pump pressure, a more traditional method that still delivers a strong, full-bodied espresso. The Vertuo also has a larger water tank, with a capacity of 40 oz, compared to the Citiz’s 34 oz.
In terms of heat-up time, the Vertuo is quicker, reaching temperature in about 15 seconds, while the Citiz takes around 30 seconds. The Vertuo also offers more versatility in drink sizes, brewing four different sizes, whereas the Citiz is limited to two. Both machines feature a milk frother, though it’s important to note that you’ll need an Aeroccino frother if you want one for either model.
In terms of convenience, the Vertuo stands out with its descaling alert, so you don’t have to remember when it’s time to clean it. Both models come with a capsule container, with the Vertuo holding 17 capsules, while the Citiz holds 11. Both also have an automatic power-off feature to save energy.
Overall, the Vertuo excels in versatility and innovation, while the Citiz is a compact and efficient choice for espresso lovers looking for a simple, reliable machine.
Nespresso Citiz vs Vertuo: Differences
Nespresso Vertuo came out on top with 2 wins, 1 loss, and 1 tie against the Nespresso Citiz. Keep reading to explore the key factors that contributed to this result.
FLAVOR & BREWING TECHNOLOGY
The Winner: Tie
HEATING SYSTEM
- The flavor and brewing technology of both the Nespresso Vertuo and Citiz are impressive, but with noticeable differences. Both machines use a Thermoblock heating system, a common feature in modern espresso machines, allowing for quick brewing. The Vertuo has the edge with a faster heating time of around 15 seconds, which is great when you’re in a rush. The Citiz, however, takes 25-30 seconds to heat up, which feels a bit slow, especially when you’re eager for that first cup in the morning.
- Both machines have indicator lights that blink during the heating phase and stay steady once they’re ready to brew. But there’s an interesting difference with the Vertuo. If I brew coffee immediately after it heats up, the coffee is good but not as hot as I’d like. The Citiz, on the other hand, seems to provide a hotter cup right after the heating phase. To compensate for this, I’ve learned to wait for an extra minute after the Vertuo heats up or run a quick preheat cycle to ensure my coffee is at the right temperature.
BREWING TECHNIQUE
- The Nespresso Vertuo and Citiz use different brewing techniques. The Vertuo uses Centrifusion technology, which spins the capsules at high speeds to extract espresso, introducing air and creating a thick layer of crema. The coffee produced is velvety and robust, although the crema can sometimes be a bit too foamy for my taste.
- On the other hand, the Citiz uses a more traditional 19-bar pump pressure system, which delivers a rich and authentic espresso with a true crema. The coffee from the Citiz feels more classic, and it’s ideal for espresso enthusiasts who prefer that traditional espresso experience.
QUALITY OF ESPRESSO
- When it comes to the quality of espresso, I find myself leaning towards the Nespresso Citiz. The espresso it brews is rich and flavorful, with a thick, luscious crema that makes it feel like I’m enjoying a café-quality espresso at home. While it may not be quite on the level of a professional espresso machine, it offers great value for its price.
- While some people prefer the Vertuo’s thicker crema, I personally enjoy the authentic, rich flavor from the Citiz more. It all comes down to personal preference, and both machines deliver solid espresso.
DRINK SIZE & COMPATIBLE CAPSULE
The Winner: Nespresso Citiz
- The Nespresso Citiz wins when it comes to drink size options. The Citiz offers two volume choices: Espresso (1.35 oz) and Lungo (5 oz). In comparison, the Vertuo offers four different sizes, including 5 oz and 7.77 oz coffee options, as well as multiple espresso sizes. If you prefer a variety of cup sizes, the Vertuo is your go-to. However, Vertuo capsules are exclusive to Nespresso, which can limit your options.
- The Citiz, on the other hand, uses the OriginalLine capsules, which can be purchased from Nespresso or third-party brands. This opens up a wider selection of coffee flavors and allows for cost savings. So, if variety and affordability are important to you, the Citiz may be a better choice.
DESIGN & USABILITY
The Winner: Nespresso Vertou
- In terms of design, both machines feature a blend of plastic and metal components, which makes them sturdy yet lightweight. They’re both easy to move around the kitchen and fit into most spaces without issue. However, the Vertuo has a slight advantage with its side-mounted water tank, which makes refilling more convenient. The 40-ounce tank also reduces the need for frequent refills.
- In contrast, the Citiz’s back-mounted water tank is a bit more difficult to access and requires a bit of maneuvering to refill. It has a 34-ounce capacity, so you’ll likely need to refill it more often, which can be a minor inconvenience.
WATER TANK
- The Nespresso Vertuo features a clever design with its side-mounted water tank, making it easy to refill without having to move the machine or remove the tank completely. With a 40-ounce capacity, I can brew multiple cups without needing to top it up often.
- In contrast, the Nespresso Citiz has a more traditional back-mounted water tank. While it works fine, I find myself having to twist or reposition the machine to access the tank for refills, which can be a bit inconvenient. Additionally, its 34-ounce capacity means I need to refill it more frequently, which can become a hassle, especially on busy mornings or when hosting guests.
DRIP TRAY & CUP CLEARANCE
- Both machines have well-designed drip trays that accommodate various cup sizes. The Citiz features a 2-tiered drip tray, which is handy for brewing different-sized cups, from tall mugs to small espresso cups. The Vertuo’s drip tray also accommodates taller cups and allows you to adjust the tray height for smaller espresso cups, making it versatile for various drink sizes.
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
The Winner: Nespresso Vertou
DESCALE
- The Nespresso Vertuo takes the lead when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. It has a reliable descaling alert that signals when it’s time to descale, making it easier to stay on top of maintenance. The alert is clear and visible, so you don’t have to constantly track when it’s time to clean the machine.
- The Citiz’s descaling process, on the other hand, is a bit less convenient. Although it has a descaling indicator, it only blinks after you’ve started the descaling process, which isn’t ideal. There’s no proactive warning like with the Vertuo, and you’ll need to keep track of the descaling schedule manually.
Quick Overview of Nespresso Vertuo
The Nespresso Vertuo by De’Longhi is a versatile coffee and espresso machine that delivers a single serve at the touch of a button. With features like a fast 25-second heat-up time and an energy-saving automatic shut-off, it’s designed for convenience and efficiency.
This machine allows you to brew coffee in a variety of sizes—5oz and 8oz for coffee, and both single and double espresso options. You can even pour over ice to make iced coffee or lattes for a refreshing twist.
It comes with a large 54-ounce water tank and a container that holds up to 17 used pods, making it great for those who enjoy multiple cups without constant refilling. Plus, a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules (assortment may vary) is included.
Pros:
- Offers more drink size options.
- Includes a descaling alert to help with maintenance.
- Uses Centrifusion technology for optimal extraction and rich crema.
- Larger water tank for more convenience.
Cons:
- Limited capsule compatibility.
Price: $153.30 (discounted from $219.00)
Quick Overview of Nespresso Citiz
The Nespresso CitiZ is a compact and stylish coffee and espresso machine that delivers barista-quality coffee with its 19-bar pump system. It heats up in just 25 seconds, ensuring a quick and efficient brewing process.
With two programmable cup sizes—Espresso (1.35 oz) and Lungo (5 oz)—this machine offers versatility for all your single-serve coffee needs. The sleek design adds elegance to any coffee ritual and is perfect for those who appreciate both functionality and aesthetics.
This model includes a milk frother for creamy lattes and cappuccinos, and comes with a welcome kit that features a selection of Nespresso Original capsules with unique flavors.
Pros:
- Quick and convenient espresso brewing with Nespresso capsules.
- Compact design, ideal for smaller kitchens.
- Double drip tray can accommodate taller cups.
Cons:
- Some parts are made of plastic, which may affect durability.
Price: $319.99
Conclusion
When comparing the Nespresso Citiz and Vertuo, both machines offer great features, but they cater to different preferences.
The Nespresso Vertuo stands out for its versatility in drink size options, Centrifusion technology for rich crema, and a larger water tank, making it ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with various types of coffee, including iced drinks. However, its capsule compatibility is limited to Nespresso Vertuo pods, which might not be ideal for those who prefer a broader range of options.
On the other hand, the Nespresso Citiz excels in espresso quality with its 19-bar pump pressure system, offering a more traditional coffee experience. It’s also compact and works well for smaller spaces. The ability to use third-party capsules makes it more budget-friendly and versatile. While the Citiz lacks the variety in drink sizes compared to the Vertuo, it still provides a strong, authentic espresso experience.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a wider variety of coffee sizes and convenience, the Vertuo is a great choice. If you prioritize espresso quality and capsule variety, the Citiz might be the better option. Both machines have their strengths, so it comes down to what kind of coffee experience you’re seeking.