Nespresso CitiZ Vs Expert: Which is the Best Value?

With so many fantastic Nespresso machines out there, is can be tricky finding the perfect one for you!

We’re looking to help you out by taking a deeper look into a comparison between two popular options currently available.

The first is the Nespresso CitiZ, which is a more compact option.

Second to that is the Nespresso Expert, which is a larger, more complicated device.

By taking a look into some of the pros, cons and details of these machines you’ll be able to get a clearer look into what they have to offer.

Read on and you’ll surely get the information you need to guide you in choosing the ideal Nespresso machine for you.

Nespresso CitiZ

Features

The Nespresso CitiZ is one of the ideal options for those who are looking for a lightweight, compact device.

It also comes at one of the lower price ranges as far as Nespresso machines go, and you should be able to find it between $160 and $190 depending on where you choose to shop.

You’ll also be able to choose between black, red, chrome and white options.

As a result, you’ll surely be able to get one in a color that fits in your kitchen!

Furthermore, it includes a 34-ounce reservoir so you won’t need to worry about the need to refill it too often.

In addition, this option is able to hold about 9 capsules, so you’ll be able to get through a decent amount of capsules before having to add more.

It is important to know that you will need to add and remove capsules manually, as it doesn’t offer automatic capsule ejection.

Like many Nespresso machines, this one also includes 19 bars of pressure to ensure you get a great-tasting result.

You can also choose to get the CitiZ with or without a milk frother depending on your preferences.


Related – Make sure to see my full comparison of the best Nespresso machines sold today.


Pros

  • Lightweight and compact.
  • This is a more budget-friendly option.
  • It includes a decent, 34-ounce reservoir.
  • Built with durable aluminum.
  • You have the option of including a milk frother.
  • Creates delicious results.

Cons

  • Does require the use of Nespresso capsules.
  • There can be some instances in which it stops working suddenly.
  • The machine can vibrate a bit during use.

Summary

This is a machine that is ideal when you may not have a lot of counter space.

It’s highly compact and lightweight, making it easy to take while traveling as well.

Many also find that the CitiZ is capable of creating a delicious crema.

It is important to remember that as a Nespresso machine, it is designed to use Nespresso capsules pretty exclusively.

As a result, you might want to check the prices on those capsules to make sure you’re okay with that!

Some users can also find that it vibrates a lot during use, or that it may cease working altogether.

Consequently, it’s a great idea to keep any warranty information you get with your purchase.

Nespresso Expert

Features

In comparison to the CitiZ, the Nespresso Expert is an ideal option for those who want something a little bigger.

This option is able to provide a greater variety of drink sizes, which can be appealing to those who like a little more variety.

It is one of the more expensive options, but it comes with a lot of great features to back up the cost.

The water reservoir is also slightly larger than the CitiZ, at a full 37 ounces.

Many also appreciate the smooth, elegant look of this device.

It does take up a little more space, and weighs a bit more than the CitiZ so you’ll want to make sure you have the space for it.

The Expert also includes automatic capsule ejection as well as the ability to fit up to 12 capsules, which is a great added convenience.

Another fantastic benefit is that this device is able to connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, which allows you to schedule brews, change up your settings and more right from your phone.

Pros

  • Offers a 37-ounce water reservoir.
  • Holds a slightly higher number of capsules (10-12).
  • Relatively lightweight.
  • Aesthetically pleasing.
  • Allows you a higher number of sizing options.
  • Alerts you when the machine needs to be cleaned.

Cons

  • There can sometimes be defects in the settings and buttons.
  • This is a larger machine and takes up more counter space.
  • Nespresso pods can be difficult to find locally.

Summary

The Expert is truly an option for those who want something with a few more bells and whistles.

You’ll get a larger variety of options as well as the Bluetooth connectivity and ability to hold more water and capsules.

It’s also a device that will alert you when it needs to be cleaned out.

That said, you will want to keep in mind that Nespresso pods may not be available locally in your area.

It’s also a machine that may risk clogging up counter space.

Comparison

Price

As can be expected, the Expert is the more expensive of these two options.

Depending on where you choose to shop, you can find it between $240 and $290, which isn’t too bad considering what it’s able to offer.

On the other hand, you can save $50+ going for the CitiZ.

Because of that, it’s really going to be important to weigh the features and decide how much value each option can provide for you.

That way, you’ll end up with the Nespresso machine that will get the most use with the least amount of added cost.

Features

Both of these fantastic machines are able to provide delicious results.

They are both machines that are part of Nespresso’s OriginalLine, so it will be a good idea to make sure the capsules for that line sound good to you.

Otherwise, it may be a good idea to check out some machines that offer VertuoLine capsules.

The good news is, there are plenty of machine options in both lines.

In addition, both the Expert and the CitiZ offer decently-sized water reservoirs, though the Expert offers one that is slightly larger.

Aside from that, you’ll want to consider what kind of variety you’ll want in the drink sizes you can make.

Another factor that may be huge for some users is the ability to change settings for the Expert right from your phone.

That aspect makes it very easy to use and set up to suit your individual needs.

It’s really going to be up to you to decide whether or not the added features offered by the Expert are going to be worth the price.

Regardless of which you choose, you’ll likely have a very useful tool as well as Nespresso customer service there to help you whenever needed.

Which Is Better?

Overall, the choice between these two options is going to be up to your individual needs.

If you’re looking for something with a greater tech aspect, or that can offer a wider variety of drink sizes then the Expert will be an ideal option.

However, it’s not going to be the best way to go if you don’t have a whole lot of counter space to offer, as it is a larger machine.

For those who are just making an entry into Nespresso machines, a smaller option like the CitiZ is likely to work perfectly well.

It’s lightweight, takes up minimal space and is a great overall option for those who are okay with something that may not have as many bells and whistles.

Regardless of which you choose, you will want to make sure that you set yourself up with plenty of Nespresso capsules as well as a descaling product for when the machine of your choice needs to be cleaned.

If you choose the CitiZ without a built-in frother, then you’ll also want to consider getting a separate frother to use with the device.

Both options are great and have a whole lot to offer espresso lovers!

Brian Mounts

Head blogger, editor, and owner of "Top Off My Coffee", a website that has been educating readers about coffee brewing techniques and equipment since 2012.

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