Nespresso Pixie Vs CitiZ: Which is Best & What’s the Difference

Pixie VS CitiZ
Those who are familiar with Nespresso know that the devices they offer are high-quality.

They also offer a few different machines that offer some different benefits, depending on what you’re looking for and how much space you have.

Furthermore, they are attributed to different Nespresso capsule lines that allow you to get some different flavor options.

For those who are interested in the Original line offered by Nespresso, two popular options the brand offers are the Pixie and the CitiZ.

These are both compact machines with a lot to offer, especially for those who want a convenient way to make their espressos at home.

Continue on, and you’ll learn just about all there is to know about these great machines!

Nespresso Pixie

Nespresso pixie

Features

The Pixie is a fantastic option for those who want the lightest, most compact model available.

It’s an ideal choice for those who don’t have a lot of space for an espresso machine.

This model comes in at around 6 lbs, so it’s not going to be hard to move around or even take with you on the go.

While it’s still a very high quality device, there are some concessions that have to be made with the smaller size.

As such, there is no built-in milk frother and the water reservoir only holds about 24 ounces.

If you don’t mind buying your own milk frother and the machine is just for you, this may not be a problem at all.

Like many other Nespresso machines, the Pixie offers a 19 bar pressure pump to create the perfect espressos.

Furthermore, the Pixie comes in three colors that are completed with an aluminum siding.

This gives it a very interesting look that will surely add to your space.

Like with other Nespresso machines, you’ll also get a two year warranty to ensure the quality of the product.

Pros

  • Provides you with an alert for an empty water reservoir.
  • Includes an exterior portion made from aluminum.
  • Highly compact.
  • Creates fantastic crema.
  • Includes a two year warranty.
  • Heats up exceptionally quickly.

Cons

  • The cord is shorter than the CitiZ.
  • It comes with a smaller reservoir.
  • You will need to use Nespresso capsules.

Summary

If you’re looking for something small and easy to use, the Pixie is going to be your best bet.

It’s a powerful little machine, capable of heating up very quickly and adding a delicious crema to your espresso drinks.

While it does make use of Nespresso capsules, some can find this to be much more convenient than trying to make espresso otherwise.

It is the smaller option between the two devices in this list, meaning you may not get as many bells and whistles.

If you want to compare the Pixie to other Nespresso machines, like the Inissia or Essenza Mini, you can check those out as well!

However, if you don’t need those extras then it’s a fantastic choice.

Nespresso CitiZ

Nespresso CitiZ

Features

The CitiZ is the larger of these two options, but coming in at just under 9 lbs it’s still not a huge device.

Another aspect that makes this model stand out is that you can choose to purchase it with or without a built-in frother.

The included frother can increase the price quite a bit, but for those who want everything in one machine it can be worthwhile.

This option also provides you with a larger reservoir, containing 10 ounces more than the Pixie’s 24 oz reservoir.

You also have a few more interesting color options, such as black, white, red and chrome.

In addition, this is an option that heats quickly so that you won’t have to wait too long for your beverage.

Many consider the results to be delicious, which is why Nespresso machines are so popular overall.

You’ll also get the 19-bar pressure you come to expect for perfect drinks.

Once you make sure the water tank is full and the capsule you want is added, the rest of the process is largely automatic.

Because of that, you can save money over buying your daily espresso from a coffee shop – without having to spend a ton of time making the drink yourself.

Pros

  • Offers a larger reservoir.
  • Creates delicious results.
  • Can include a built-in frother if you want one.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Very simple to set up.
  • Highly compact.

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer an empty reservoir alert.
  • It’s a slightly bigger, heavier option compared to the Pixie.
  • Cleaning and care may require a bit more effort.

Summary

The CitiZ offers a larger water reservoir, but without the alert for when it is empty.

Because of that, you will need to check to make sure you have plenty of water before you get started brewing.

You can also choose whether or not you want an added frother, which is a great option to have available as not all users want to have to froth milk themselves.

Though it is bigger, it’s still a rather compact device that can fit pretty easily into smaller spaces.

Many users also find that, like many Nespresso machines, it’s an option that is very easy to use.

Comparison

Nespresso capsules

Cost

The pricing you’re looking at is really going to depend on the kinds of options you choose.

The Pixie by itself can range from around $160 to $230 depending on where you choose to purchase it.

Overall, it’s going to be the less expensive between these two options.

That said, you will need to purchase a milk frother separately from the machine, which can add a little bit to the price.

Both devices are also on the OrginialLine, so you won’t need to worry about a difference in capsule line prices or flavors that are going to be offered.

On the other hand, the CitiZ can come at two different prices, depending on whether or not you want that built-in frother.

By itself, the CitiZ can range from $180 to $250 depending on where you decide to buy it.

Meanwhile, the CitiZ including the milk frother can range from $260 to $300.

Generally speaking, the prices on the Nespresso website can be higher than other places so that’s going to be important to keep in mind while you shop.

It’s also worth taking a look into the prices of capsules and milk frothers to make sure you have the budget for these added expenses.

Features

Nespresso is well-known for providing high-quality espresso machines.

Because of that, you’re sure to get a fantastic device regardless of whether you choose a more expensive machine or something that is easier on a budget.

Both of these machines are rather compact and able to heat up quickly.

They also both make use of Nespresso capsules, which are thought by most to be quite delicious.

You’ll also get a great 19 bars of pressure from both devices.

Overall, there isn’t a huge gap between these two devices, but there are some that might be important to you.

To start, the CitiZ offers a few more color options, a larger water reservoir and the option for a built-in frother.

Meanwhile, the Pixie is smaller and doesn’t include a frother but it does have an alert for when the reservoir is empty.

The CitiZ is also able to hold one more capsule than the Pixie, allowing the CitiZ room for 11 Nespresso capsules and the Pixie room for 10.

While that isn’t a huge difference, it can add just that much more to the convenience you get from each machine.

Overall, they are both fantastic options.

Which Is Better?

Naturally, this is ultimately going to be a subjective decision for the buyer.

That said, those who are looking for the absolute most possible value for their money, the CitiZ is a clear winner.

It offers a larger reservoir, the option of choosing a built-in milk frother and space for one more capsule than the Pixie.

With those features included, it’s still a conveniently compact device that is great for those who may not have a lot of space to offer.

There are also a few more color options available for this device to match your space and create the ideal look overall.

While you’re shopping, it may also help to take a look at some espresso cups as well!

Essentially, the choice is likely to come down to exactly how tight the space you have available is as well as the amount you’re wiling to spend on an espresso machine.

For those who are on the tightest budgets, the Pixie is a great option that is compact, easy to use and is an option you can take while traveling.

Otherwise, the CitiZ is the ideal choice for many, especially if you’re looking for something that includes a built-in frother.

 

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Brian Mounts

I have been working in the coffee industry since 2013 and have been a professional online publisher since 2009. I am the current owner of GGCCoffee.com and I love all forms of coffee. I roast my own green coffee beans, grind them, and usually make my own coffee daily in either a french press, moka pot, or a pour over coffee dripper. I am a nut for equipment so many of my articles are reviews and comparisons of best selling coffee brewing accessories.

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