There is only one real victor in the contest in the battle of Nespresso Pixie vs Inissia: Pixie. Here are my humble reviews after experiencing both machines for a time. Let’s dive in to learn what makes both of the machines different from each other.
Nespresso Pixie is known for espressos with a good balance of flavor. This espresso machine is ideal if you want one that is reliable, cost-effective, and delicious. It comes with 16 free capsules for you to try and find out which one is your favorite option.
Nespresso Inissia Breville, the runner-up, is quite competitive. It produces silky espressos with a wonderful crema. In general, the operation is stable. But I don’t like how loud the brewing sessions are. If you have young children at home, there may be better options than this one.
Nespresso Pixie vs Inissia: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Nespresso Pixie vs Inissia: Differences
Delonghi Nespresso Pixie wins 1-0 and ties twice against Breville Nespresso Inissia. Even though they can brew the same delicious espresso, Pixie has a greater build quality. The device also boasts a light indicator for an empty water tank.
Coffee flavor and brewing system
Tie
Brewing technique
Both the Delonghi Nespresso Pixie and the Breville Nespresso Inissia stand out with their impressive thermoblock heating systems. In reality, these two espresso machines only take about 25 seconds to heat up before brewing. If you have a busy lifestyle, this quick heat-up feature is a lifesaver. It guarantees that your morning espresso routine won’t slow you down.
However, to ensure that the machine is heated up completely, I prefer to leave it on for around 2 minutes. This allows the machine to reach its optimal temperature, producing the best flavor and aroma possible. Also, don’t forget to warm your cup first to get the hottest espresso possible.
The Delonghi Nespresso Pixie and Breville Nespresso Inissia both have a powerful 19-bar pump pressure. This pressure ensures that water passes through the coffee grounds with enough force to extract the maximum amount of flavor, oils, and aroma.
As a result, you get a rich, full-bodied espresso shot with the velvety crema that coffee lovers desire. The crema is proof of a successful extraction process, and achieving it consistently indicates the machine’s high quality.
Espresso flavor
The Delonghi Nespresso Pixie and Breville Nespresso Inissia have been pleasantly surprised by the espresso flavor. Unlike other competitors in the Nespresso range, these two machines consistently deliver on taste and presentation. Each brewed cup showcases a visually satisfying crema layer that remains intact even as I drink the shot.
After trying out numerous alternatives, I still prefer the aroma, crema production, and flavor of Nespresso’s original line pods. If you are a newbie looking to explore various flavors, both machines come with a delightful welcome set.
The Nespresso Pixie offers 16 free distinct capsules, whereas the Nespresso Inissia provides 14 capsules. Each with a specific color corresponding to a unique aroma profile. The menu that comes with them is a helpful guide that makes it easy for beginners to find their preferred flavor or try out new aromatic experiences.
Please note that these machines are not capable of making an Americano. Although using 2 or 3 pods to achieve a similar volume as an Americano is possible, it may not be the most cost-effective option.
Design and convenience
The winner: Nespresso Pixie
Build quality
In general, these machines are quite well built and give a strong and durable impression. However, each machine has a different housing design. The Nespresso Pixie boasts an aluminum side panel, with the lever, spout, and a portion of the drip tray crafted from stainless steel. The rest is made of plastic. As for Nespresso Inissia, its housing is mainly plastic and metal. Even its drip tray and lever are made of plastic.
Comparing the build quality between the two machines, I personally prefer the Nespresso Pixie. The mental lever of this product feels sturdy when held, unlike the plastic lever of the Nespresso Inissia, which is more prone to breaking.
Water tank, weight, and dimensions
The water tanks on these machines are situated at the back exterior of the machine. They are made of clear plastic and have a lid at the top. Both tanks have the same design and hold approximately 0.7 liters of water. Since their capacity is less than 1 liter, you will have to refill them regularly.
When it comes to dimensions and weight, there isn’t much difference between the two models. Both are less than 5 inches wide and weigh under 6 pounds. This means you can easily carry them around, even to outdoor events such as picnics.
Ease of use
Operating these Nespresso machines is mostly the same, easy and user-friendly. Each machine has only two control buttons: espresso and lungo, and a lever at the top.
To use the Nespresso Inissia, simply fill the water reservoir in the back with fresh, and select either the “lungo” (long shot) or espresso shot (short shot) button. The lungo shot is larger and less intense in flavor. To load the capsule for brewing, lift the lever completely.
The operation with the Nespresso Pixie is similar to the one above. First, load your capsule and close the handle. Then, press either the lungo or espresso selection button once, and the corresponding light will begin flashing to indicate that the water is heating up.
To dispense water from the machine, you can program the buttons. Just press and hold down each button. Keep pressing the button until the water reaches the desired amount, then let go.
Their removable capsule bin and drip tray assembly slide out of the front of the unit. This feature increases convenience during cleaning and maintaining the machine.
Noise
If you inquire whether these machines produce noise, my answer is yes. The pump produces a loud noise, especially when I use these devices in the early morning. However, these noises don’t last long—only about 20–30 seconds. In my opinion, this isn’t a significant issue, particularly when considering the cost and excellence these devices offer.
Additional feature
There are only a few differences between the Pixie and Inissia coffee machines. The main difference is that the Pixie has alert lights on the sides of its frame, which turn red when the water tank is empty and there’s not enough water to make an espresso.
Cleaning and maintenance
Tie
Due to their simple structure, maintaining and cleaning these machines is a straightforward and easy process. To clean the water tank, capsule bin, and drip tray, simply remove them and rinse them under running water. Avoid using strong cleaning agents or solvent cleaners, and do not put these parts in a dishwasher. To clean the coffee outlet, use a damp cloth on a regular basis.
The descaling process for both of these machines is essentially the same. I suggest using Nespresso descaling liquid. To begin, remove the capsule and close the lever. Make sure to empty the drip tray and capsule container beforehand. The user manual for each machine provides clear instructions and illustrations to follow. Just read carefully, and you’ll be good to go. It’s a straightforward process, so there is no need to worry.
Nespresso Pixie vs Inissia: Similarities
Judging from the exterior aspects of the machines only, I can already tell that Pixie and Inissia share lots of similarities. There are two things I want to highlight here: the drip tray and the auto shut-off function. Check out my verdict below!
Foldable cup support
The Pixie and Inissia have a foldable cup support feature to accommodate larger cups. For standard espresso cups, lower the support, ensuring the cup is snugly positioned near the nozzle. If you want to use a taller cup, simply fold the tray into the machine’s body.
Auto shut-off
Both the Nespresso Pixie and Inissia models come with an auto-shut-off feature. Users can choose between two options for the automatic shutdown time: after 9 minutes or 30 minutes. In case you want to turn off the machine before the automatic power-off time, press the Espresso and Lungo buttons together. This function can help you consume less energy. I rate this as a small detail that is useful and convenient for users.
Quick Rundown of Nespresso Pixie
- Ultra-compact design: Elegant profile perfect for urbanites with limited kitchen counter space
- 19 bar high-performance pump and automatic piercing and brewing of capsules with 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 machine off after 9 minutes of inactivity
- Machine is compatible with Nespresso Original espresso capsules.
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Nespresso Inissia
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- BARISTA GRADE: Nespresso Inissia by Breville offers an impeccable single serve coffee or espresso cup every time, thanks to its automatic operation and patented extraction system which delivers up to 19 bars of pressure. The Inissia is the perfect coffee machine that fits perfectly into any interior design.
- FAST: Eliminate the wait time with how fast the water reaches the ideal temperature in less 25 seconds in a single touch. This automatic coffee machine gets your perfect cup of coffee or espresso to you fast.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT COFFEE MACHINE: Brew two different cup sizes; Espresso (1.35 oz) and Lungo (5 oz), with just the touch of a button. Pour over ice to create your favorite iced coffee drinks. With the smart energy saving mode automatically switches off our coffee maker after 9 only minutes.
- SMART COFFEE MAKER: Adjustable cup size with two programmable espresso and lungo buttons. The folding drip tray accommodates larger single serve cup sizes and recipes.
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/nespresso-pixie-espresso-machine-with-aeroccino-by-de-longhi-aluminum-en124saeca/p/EN124SAE
- https://www.breville.com/us/en/products/nespresso/bec120.html
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.