Have you ever wanted a compact machine that makes both espresso and milk-based drinks without taking up too much counter space?
My Overall Impression of the Nespresso CitiZ Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Milk Frother, Black, 9.3 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches
I like how the CitiZ combines a slim footprint with a straightforward capsule system that consistently produces good espresso. The machine balances style and function, and the included milk frother makes it easy for me to create lattes and cappuccinos at home without fuss.
Why I thought it worth testing
I wanted a machine that would be quick to use on busy mornings, consistent in extraction, and simple to clean. The CitiZ promises convenience and a quality espresso experience, and I approached testing wanting to confirm those claims.
Nespresso CitiZ Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi with Milk Frother, Black, 9.3 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches
What’s in the Box and Unboxing Notes
I was pleased to find that the package includes more than just the machine; Nespresso usually adds a starter set of capsules. Unboxing is straightforward, and the components are well protected.
Items included
The machine arrived with clear instructions to consult the user manual (available as a PDF in the product description) before first use. Each machine also includes an Espresso Original capsule welcome kit that showcases a range of capsule aromas, which I found helpful for trying different flavor profiles right away.
First impressions
The finish and build felt solid out of the box, and the removable parts were easy to access for setup. I liked that setup required minimal tools and took only a few minutes.
Design and Build Quality
The CitiZ has a classic, mid-century modern aesthetic that fits well into many kitchens. I appreciated the clean lines and compact silhouette, which made placement simple.
Materials and finish
The exterior in black resists fingerprints better than some glossy finishes I’ve used, and the plastic feels robust rather than flimsy. The De’Longhi branding and Nespresso styling come together to give a premium look that matches other Nespresso accessories.
Dimensions and footprint
The product dimensions are 9.3 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches, which makes it narrow enough for small counters or narrow shelves. I could tuck it beside the toaster without losing counter real estate.
Technical Specifications (Quick Reference)
Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant specs I checked while testing. I found having all the key numbers in one place useful for comparing against other machines.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product name | Nespresso CitiZ Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Milk Frother, Black |
| Dimensions | 9.3 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches |
| Color | Black |
| Capsule system | Nespresso OriginalLine capsules |
| Pump pressure | 19 bar (industry standard for Nespresso machines) |
| Water tank capacity | Approximately 1.0 L (varies slightly by model batch) |
| Included accessories | Espresso Original capsule welcome kit; Aeroccino or integrated milk frother depending on bundle |
| User documentation | PDF user manual included in product description; recommended to read before first use |
| Special notes | Compact design aimed at espresso and milk-based coffee drinkers |
Setup and First Use
I followed the PDF user manual before brewing my first cup, and that made setup smooth. The instructions emphasized rinsing the system and running a water-only cycle prior to brewing coffee, which I recommend following.
Step-by-step setup highlights
I filled the water tank, powered the machine, and ran the initial rinse program per the manual. Setting up the milk frother (if separate) was intuitive, and cleaning the removable parts beforehand helped ensure the first shots tasted clean.
Safety and user guide tip
Please refer to the user guide or user manual provided in the product description before first use; I found the manual contains important maintenance and safety instructions that prevented mistakes I might have otherwise made.
Brewing Performance: Espresso and Lungo
The CitiZ excels at delivering consistent espresso extraction, producing a rich crema and balanced cup. I tested multiple capsules and found the temperature and pressure stable.
Espresso quality
Espresso shots were quick to produce and displayed a thick crema, with the 19-bar pump giving a pleasing extraction. Each capsule produced a repeatable flavor profile, which I found comforting for everyday use.
Lungo and longer drinks
When I switched to lungo settings, the machine maintained good balance and didn’t become overly bitter if I used capsules suited for longer extraction. For most capsules, a lungo produced a larger cup without degrading flavor too much.
Milk Frothing Performance
The milk frother included (Aeroccino or integrated milk frother depending on the package) made it easy for me to create microfoam for lattes and froth for cappuccinos. It warmed quickly and was consistent.
Milk texture and temperature
The frother produced velvety foam suitable for latte art practice and smooth cappuccino tops. Heating was prompt, and the temperature control prevented overheating the milk if I followed the recommended intervals.
Versatility with alternative milks
I tested dairy, oat, and almond milk; texture varied by milk type, with whole milk producing the richest foam. Plant-based milks typically required slightly different frothing times, but the frother was capable of producing acceptable results for each.
Capsule System and Flavor Variety
Nespresso OriginalLine capsules provide a large selection of intensities and flavor profiles. I appreciated the consistent dosing and minimal mess compared to grind-and-tamp home espresso machines.
Ease of use and capsule handling
Loading capsules is simple—lift the lever, insert capsule, close, and start. Spent capsules drop into a collection bin that I emptied periodically; for heavy use, frequent emptying is necessary.
Environmental considerations
Nespresso offers recycling programs for used capsules, and I found the option reassuring from a sustainability standpoint. I recommend checking local collection points to avoid throwing aluminum capsules into general waste.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I found the CitiZ straightforward to clean, with most removable parts being dishwasher-safe or easy to rinse. Regular descaling and tank cleaning extended my machine’s consistent performance.
Daily and weekly maintenance
I rinsed the drip tray and capsule container daily and wiped the exterior weekly. The milk frother needed a quick rinse after each use to avoid milk residue buildup.
Descaling and longevity
The user manual outlines descaling intervals, and I followed them to keep flavors pure and pump operation smooth. Descaling frequency depends on water hardness and usage, but treating it every 3 months for moderate use was a useful rule for me.
Noise and Speed
The CitiZ is relatively quick; espresso shots take under a minute from capsule insertion to pouring. It isn’t silent, but the noise level is comparable to other pump-driven capsule machines and never intrusive during normal use.
Morning routine suitability
I used the machine early on mornings and found the noise level acceptable when the house was quiet. Rapid heat-up time made it convenient for quick single-serve servings without long waits.
Energy Efficiency and Auto Features
The CitiZ typically includes an automatic power-off feature that helps conserve energy when idle. I appreciated the automatic shutoff after a period of inactivity since it removes the need to remember to turn it off.
Power-off practicality
The auto-off saves energy without adding manual steps to my routine. If you want active readiness, you might need to disable or adjust the auto-off per the manual, keeping in mind energy usage implications.
Common Issues I Encountered and How I Solved Them
I had a few minor hiccups during my testing, mostly related to water hardness and capsule alignment, which I resolved quickly.
Weak or watery shots
Occasionally a shot seemed weak when the capsule wasn’t fully seated; reseating the capsule fixed this. Ensuring the capsule container was emptied regularly also prevented pressure issues.
Frother not frothing correctly
When foam became inconsistent, I found cleaning the frother and checking for milk residue cured the problem. For plant-based milks, I adjusted frothing time and used a hotter frothing cycle for better texture.
Pros and Cons
I compiled a list of the most notable advantages and drawbacks based on my experience. This helped me decide whether this machine fit my daily routine and expectations.
Pros
- Compact footprint that fits small counters easily.
- Consistent espresso extraction with good crema.
- Simple capsule system with minimal mess.
- Included welcome capsule kit to sample different blends.
- Easy milk frothing for lattes and cappuccinos.
- User manual provided (PDF) with clear setup and safety instructions.
Cons
- Capsule dependence can be more expensive than bulk coffee for heavy use.
- Capsule container requires frequent emptying for multiple daily uses.
- Some plant-based milks require more practice for ideal froth.
Who I Think This Machine Is Best For
I would recommend the CitiZ to people who want a straightforward, reliable espresso maker without the learning curve of a traditional espresso machine. It’s particularly suited for small kitchens, apartment dwellers, or anyone who values speed and convenience.
Not ideal for
If you want full control over grinding, tamping, and extraction variables, this is not the machine for you. Barista purists and people seeking full customization will prefer manual or semi-automatic espresso machines.
Tips and Tricks I Learned While Using It
I picked up a few practical habits that improved results and prolonged the machine’s life. Small tweaks made a noticeable difference in drink quality and convenience.
Capsule selection and shot length
I matched capsule intensity to drink size: higher-intensity capsules for espresso and medium intensity for lungo. I also experimented with stopping the extraction slightly early for certain capsules to reduce bitterness.
Milk texturing shortcuts
I warmed the milk a bit before frothing for steadier foam, especially with plant-based milks. Cleaning the frother right away avoided stubborn milk residue and reduced cleaning time later.
Comparison with Similar Machines
Compared to other Nespresso models and competing capsule machines, the CitiZ strikes a nice balance between size, price, and performance. It is smaller than many countertop machines but still provides a satisfying espresso experience.
What stood out versus competitors
The CitiZ’s combination of compact design and De’Longhi engineering gave me a consistent, stylish option without sacrificing functionality. The included milk frother option makes it more versatile than base-level capsule machines.
Value for Money
I feel that the CitiZ offers strong value if you prioritize convenience, consistent espresso, and a compact form factor. The ongoing cost of capsules should factor into long-term value assessments.
Ongoing costs
Capsules are a recurring expense, so I calculated my typical use to estimate monthly costs. If you drink multiple espressos daily, the cost adds up compared to buying whole-bean coffee, though it offsets time spent preparing drinks.
Troubleshooting Quick Guide
I kept a short troubleshooting checklist for the most common minor problems, which saved me time and avoided unnecessary service calls.
Quick fixes
- No heat: Check water tank seating and run a rinse cycle.
- Weak extraction: Ensure capsule is properly inserted and capsule compartment closed fully.
- Poor froth: Clean frother thoroughly and try different milk brands or temperatures.
- Machine not turning on: Confirm power connection and that automatic off hasn’t been triggered; consult manual for reset.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
I would buy the Nespresso CitiZ Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Milk Frother, Black, 9.3 x 14.6 x 10.9 inches for everyday home use if I wanted reliable espresso with minimal fuss. Its compact size and consistent performance make it a solid pick for many households.
My overall rating based on personal use
On a scale of practicality, convenience, and drink quality, the CitiZ scores highly for me as a user who values fast, repeatable espresso and the ability to prepare milk drinks without complex equipment. If you prefer an easy, stylish solution to home espresso and enjoy the capsule ecosystem, I think you’ll be happy with it.
Frequently Asked Questions I Had (and Answers I Found Useful)
I noted a few FAQs while using the machine that helped clarify setup and day-to-day operations.
Do I need to read the manual before using it?
Yes. The manual is provided as a PDF in the product description and contains important safety and setup information you should follow prior to first use.
What comes with the machine?
In addition to the machine and basic accessories, each unit includes an Espresso Original capsule welcome kit so you can sample a range of flavors immediately.
Is descaling necessary?
Yes. Descaling as recommended in the manual prevents scale buildup, preserves flavor quality, and maintains pump performance over time.
Can I use third-party capsules?
The machine uses Nespresso OriginalLine capsules, and many compatible third-party capsules exist. Results can vary, so I recommend sampling a few to find brands you like.
Closing Practical Notes
I kept the manual handy and checked the PDF for details on warranty, parts, and customer support while testing. Following the manual, especially for descaling and initial setup, ensured the best performance during my evaluation.
Final purchase consideration
If you’re looking for a compact, stylish machine that simplifies daily espresso and milk drink preparation, I think the CitiZ is a compelling option. The included capsule kit made getting started enjoyable, and the machine’s reliability made it part of my daily routine quickly.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
