Making espressos at home can be a great way to save money.
For those who are frequent espresso drinkers, having your own device can allow you to spend less time and money in coffee shops.
As a result, you’ll have more time for other things and can even save a little.
But which espresso machine should you buy? After all there are so many options.
Two highly popular espresso machines are Nespresso’s Inissia and Pixie.
To many, these devices can appear to be essentially the same but there are some key differences that are worth taking into consideration.
In order to help you, we’re going to provide some solid information and a comparison between these two devices.
Continue on to learn which machine is better for you!
First Let’s Look at the Nespresso Inissia, Then Compare it to the Nespresso Pixie
The Inissia’s Features
The Nespresso Inissia is a handy little device that can make home espressos a lot easier and more convenient to brew.
It’s designed to be easy to use, allowing you to make delicious espressos with the touch of a button.
You’ll also have a drip tray that can be adjusted. Usually you’ll be brewing into a small mug for espresso shots but in case you need to make use of a larger mug for larger sized mixed espresso drinks this machine will still work for you.
This handy little device is very compact, so you won’t need to worry about it taking up too much space in your home.
There are also a variety of colors, so you can be sure to get something that fits in with your decor.
Furthermore, this neat little device is made to heat up quickly so you won’t need to wait around too long for your morning pick-me-up.
For those who tend to be in a rush out the door, the Inissia is made to turn itself off after it has been left alone for 9 minutes so you won’t need to worry about it continuing to draw power while you’re at work.
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Using specially made Nespresso capsules which use perfectly ground coffee, you’ll be sure to get a high-quality, delicious result every time. You would need a pretty nice burr coffee grinder to copy the quality of the grind in those capsules!
To top it all off, technical assistance will be available at any time of day should you have any questions or concerns about your machine.
Pros
- Convenient compact size
- Heats up quickly
- Offers less expensive coffee pods
- Works like a commercial espresso machine
- Creates delicious results
Cons
- You have to use specific pods with this device
- It can be on the noisy side
- Not all mug sizes are going to fit easily
Summary
While there are a lot of benefits to be had with this machine, there are also a few downfalls to take into consideration.
For example, you will need to use specially designed pods with this device.
That can sometimes effect the overall cost, or you may just have difficulty finding flavors you like.
However, it will also be likely that these pods will still save money over going to a coffee shop for your espressos.
You should also keep in mind that some taller mugs may not fit well with the tray, meaning you’ll have to remove it if you are set on using a larger mug.
Now Let’s Review the Nespresso Pixie
The Pixie’s Features
While it looks strikingly similar to the Inissia, the Nespresso Pixie is a device that is a little more heavy-duty.
It’s made mostly from metal, whereas the Inissia is largely plastic.
You’ll also get two one-touch buttons that you can program to fit your specific tastes.
In addition, you may also find that the Pixie is a little bit larger than the Inissia, but not by much.
It’s still a perfectly compact machine that will fit just about anywhere in your kitchen.
Another benefit you get with this device is that it’s designed with a special alert that lets you know when the water tank is running low.
That way, you won’t need to worry about checking it every time you want to make a drink. Just fill it up and go until it tells you more water is needed.
It’s also made to turn off by itself after 9 minutes of being left alone, so you won’t need to worry too much about leaving it on accidentally.
Like other Nespresso devices, this one uses Nespresso capsules to help ensure that you get the perfect cup every time.
You’ll also find that this device heats up quickly, meaning you won’t have to wait too long for your morning cup.
If you’re looking for a great machine for making at-home espressos, it’s hard to fail with either the Pixie or the Inissia.
Pros
- Made from mostly metal
- Runs more quietly than other options
- Compact and easy to store
- Brews excellent results
- Powerful and able to handle a lot of regular work
Cons
- There can sometimes be water leaks
- Some customers find there are issues getting units to brew correctly
- In some cases, resulting espressos may lack flavor
Summary
Many who are looking for some serious durability enjoy the Pixie because it’s constructed from mostly metal.
It’s also a device that is compact, so it won’t take up too much counter space.
That said, it is important to keep in mind that some customers have experienced water leaks.
In some other cases, customers have found that the unit may not brew so much as run hot water through the machine and into the cup.
Because of that, it’s a good idea to make use of the 24/7 support offered by Nespresso if you discover either of these problems or just have any questions about the product.
The Head-to-Head Comparison
Similarities Between the Two Espresso Machines
For these devices, there are more similarities than there are differences.
Essentially, both the Inissia and the Pixie do the same job with just a few small differences.
Both options give you a water tank that holds 24 ounces. While that isn’t a huge amount of water, it’s plenty for just a few people or multiple uses per day.
It’s also going to be very easy to refill.
The Inissia and the Pixie also both use specialized capsules, contain drip trays that can fold as needed and a 19-bar pressure pump so that you can get the ideal pressure for an espresso.
Furthermore, they have the same operational buttons for single and double shots and are able to create tasty results.
Essentially, for those who aren’t too picky about the specific details of the device, either one can get the job done.
You’ll also be able to expect both machines to heat up very quickly, so you won’t need to worry about waiting too long for your drink.
Neither device is also terribly loud, though they aren’t completely silent either.
Both machines are also rather compact, easy to store and come in some really great colors so you’ll be able to get what suits you best.
The Inissia & The Pixie: What’s Different?
Though they are largely the same, there are some differences that are worthwhile to keep in mind between these two devices.
The most noticeable difference is going to be the look, as the Inissia is made mostly from plastic while the Pixie is made with metal.
Because of that, those who have strong leanings in the durability of their machine will be more likely to opt for the Pixie.
Furthermore, the Pixie does weigh a little bit more than the Inissia, but the difference is only just over a pound.
You’ll also find that the Inissia does offer more color choices, so if aesthetics are important to you then that might be the way to go.
Another important difference to keep in mind is the price. There is a pretty decent difference between the more affordable Inissia and the more durable Pixie.
The Pixie also offers the water tank light that lets you know when the tank is empty, which the Inissia does not have.
However, the Inissia does have a dedicated power button, while the Pixie doesn’t.
Though many of these differences are smaller, it can be helpful to know them in order to make the ideal espresso machine choice for you.
Which Is Better?
For the most part, the choice between the Nespresso Inissia or Pixie is going to be based on your budget as well as whether or not you feel you need the smaller benefits that the Pixie has to offer.
Though the price difference isn’t huge, the Inissia is going to come in at a lower cost between the two.
That lower cost will require you to sacrifice the empty water alert feature and the metal construction.
If those features aren’t highly important to you, then it may be worth saving a little money on the purchase.
However, many do find that the metal in the Pixie makes it a little more durable and is well worth the added cost.
Essentially, they are both fantastic machines with a lot to offer for all your favorite espresso recipes.
The choice is up to you!