Nespresso Pixie Review: A Compact Powerhouse?

The Nespresso Pixie is a compact and stylish coffee machine that delivers exceptional coffee with just a touch of a button.

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado seeking convenience or a busy individual in need of a quick caffeine fix, the Pixie offers an enticing solution.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key features, performance, and overall user experience of the Nespresso Pixie, revealing why it has become a beloved choice among coffee lovers worldwide.

So, grab your favorite mug and join us as we explore the wonders of this small but mighty coffee powerhouse.

SpecificationDetails
NameNespresso Pixie
Machine TypeEspresso machine
Pressure19 bars
Capsule CompatibilityNespresso OriginalLine capsules
Cup Sizes SupportedEspresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.7 oz)
Brew Buttons2 buttons (programmable)
Heat-Up TimeApproximately 25 seconds
Water Tank Capacity24 oz
Power-Saving9 or 30 minutes auto-off
MaterialAluminum
Colors AvailableTitan, Electric Titan, Carmine
Used Capsule CapacityUp to 10 capsules
Dimensions9.25 x 4.4 x 12.8 inches
Weight6.2 pounds
Warranty1 year

Nespresso Pixie: Compact Convenience with Exceptional Espresso

The Nespresso Pixie is an OriginalLine espresso machine that combines compactness and affordability without compromising on quality.

Designed to utilize Nespresso capsules, this sleek aluminum machine boasts a modern aesthetic and is available in various colors, including Titan, Electric Titan, and Carmine.

With a pressure of 19 bars, the Pixie ensures optimal extraction for a delightful coffee experience.

Simplicity is at the heart of the Pixie’s design, featuring just two buttons for effortless operation.

Within a mere 25 seconds, this impressive machine heats up and brews a perfect shot of espresso.

It comes pre-set to deliver a standard 1.35 oz espresso or a 3.70 oz lungo, catering to different preferences.

However, it’s important to note that the Pixie is not intended for brewing larger coffee beverages like those offered by Nespresso’s VertuoLine brewers.

When it comes to the taste and texture of the espresso produced, the Nespresso Pixie truly shines.

With its precise extraction system, the Pixie ensures a rich and evenly extracted coffee, accompanied by its characteristic crema.

In fact, the Pixie outperforms Nespresso’s own VertuoLine machines, as well as competitors such as the Keurig K-Cafe and other pod-based coffee makers.

While it may not match the craftsmanship of high-end coffee shops with its freshly ground beans and professional-grade equipment, the Pixie surpasses expectations for an affordable and convenient espresso maker.

To enhance your coffee experience, the Pixie is compatible with Nespresso’s branded coffee capsules.

Furthermore, if you desire a wider range of options, there are third-party coffee capsule brands like HiLine Coffee and Gourmesso that offer compatible capsules for OriginalLine espresso machines.

To help you get started, each Pixie machine includes a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules, allowing you to explore different flavors and profiles right away.

Pros

  • Compact and sleek design
  • Simple to use and program
  • Affordable price
  • Compatible with third-party coffee capsules
  • Produces a robust and full-bodied espresso with crema
  • Actual 19 bar pressure for superior brewing
  • Removable water tank and used capsule container for easy maintenance

Cons

  • No built-in milk frother
  • Not suitable for brewing larger cups of coffee
  • A 24 oz water tank is pretty small
  • Lack of dishwasher-safe parts

Sleek and Futuristic Design of the Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie showcases a compact and sleek design that effortlessly adds a touch of modernity to any kitchen.

Its hammered metal sides contribute to a futuristic aesthetic, capturing attention with their unique texture.

The designers of the Pixie had a clear vision in mind: to create a minimalist espresso machine with a reduced number of parts, resulting in a streamlined and efficient product.

Crafted from anodized aluminum, the Pixie exudes a sense of high-quality craftsmanship.

One of the standout features of the Nespresso Pixie is its ability to fit seamlessly into even the tiniest kitchen spaces.

Measuring a mere 9.25 x 4.4 x 12.8 inches (23.5 x 11.1 x 32.6cm) in height, width, and depth, respectively, it ensures a minimal footprint without compromising on functionality.

Weighing just 6.2 pounds (2.8 kg), the Pixie is effortlessly portable, allowing you to relocate it as needed.

The machine boasts a moderately-sized 23.8-ounce (0.7-liter) water reservoir, striking a balance between capacity and compactness.

The Nespresso Pixie is available in two versions: the Breville and De’Longhi models. While both models deliver the same exceptional performance, they sport slight design variations.

The Breville model exudes an industrial charm, with its rugged appearance and hammered metal accents.

On the other hand, the De’Longhi model showcases a sleek aluminum look, exuding a sense of refined elegance.

From the front, the two models appear identical, harmonizing their user-friendly interface and functional aspects.

Ease of Use: Effortless Coffee Brewing with the Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie is designed with simplicity in mind, offering an intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Its two-button interface allows you to easily choose between two coffee options: Espresso and Lungo.

Out of the box, the brew buttons are pre-programmed for 1.35-ounce espresso shots and 3.7-ounce lungo shots.

However, you have the flexibility to customize the water volume to suit your personal preference.

You can also control the brewing process by topping off your cup or pausing the brew early with a simple push of the button.

Making a cup of coffee with the Nespresso Pixie is a breeze. Simply insert a Nespresso capsule into the machine, close the lever, position your cup under the coffee outlet, and select your desired drink.

The Pixie takes care of the rest, delivering a consistently delicious cup of coffee with every brew.

The machine will also switch itself off after 9 minutes helping promote energy efficiency.

Located at the front of the coffee maker, below the spout, you’ll find a convenient drip tray. By default, it accommodates small cups up to 3.5 inches (8.8 cm) tall.

However, if you prefer to use taller cups, the drip tray can be flipped up, providing space for cups up to 5.7 inches (14.5 cm).

It’s important to note that the drip tray doesn’t stay flipped up unless there’s a cup in place on the counter to hold it in position.

The Nespresso Pixie streamlines the cleaning and maintenance process. The integrated bin for used capsules, located behind the drip tray, can hold up to 10 pods.

It is easily accessible and removable for convenient emptying and cleaning. Similarly, the water tank is effortlessly removable, allowing for easy filling and cleaning.

Alternatively, you can simply flip up the lid to fill the tank from a jug, adding to the Pixie’s convenience factor.

When you unbox the Nespresso Pixie by Krups, you’ll be pleased to find that minimal setup is required.

The manual suggests rinsing the water tank and running hot water without a capsule by pressing the lungo button three times.

Once these simple steps are complete, you’re ready to enjoy your favorite coffee with ease.

Impressive Performance: Nespresso Pixie’s Rich Espresso Shots

Equipped with a powerful 19 bar pressure pump, the Nespresso Pixie delivers exceptional performance in extracting rich and evenly balanced espresso shots.

Its impressive pressure ensures optimal flavor extraction, resulting in a luscious crema that adds a touch of elegance to your coffee experience.

Compared to Keurig coffee makers and larger Nespresso espresso machines, the Pixie operates with a notably quieter operation, allowing you to enjoy your coffee without unnecessary noise disruptions.

While it may not match the precision and quality of a high-end coffee shop’s professional machine with freshly ground coffee, the Pixie surpasses expectations for an affordable espresso maker that prioritizes convenience.

With a remarkable heat-up time of approximately 25 seconds, the Nespresso Pixie is designed to cater to busy mornings and time-conscious coffee lovers.

Once the machine’s light stops blinking and remains steady, it signals that the Pixie is ready for use. Its swift heating process ensures a quick start to your day, providing you with a cup of coffee in no time.

The Nespresso Pixie dispenses coffee at a temperature of around 185°F (85°C), offering a desirable and satisfactory level of warmth for most coffee enthusiasts.

However, it’s important to note that the Pixie lacks temperature adjustment settings, which may be a point to consider if you prefer your coffee piping hot.

Similarly, the volume of coffee dispensed cannot be adjusted, limiting customization options.

Additionally, there is no explicit indicator to inform you when the water has depleted.

However, the transparent water tank allows for easy visual monitoring of the water level, offering convenience at a glance.

While the Nespresso Pixie may not rival the espresso produced by traditional espresso machines, it still impresses with its ability to brew rich and creamy espresso shots.

Nespresso Pixie’s Additional Accessories

With each Nespresso Pixie machine, you receive a thoughtful bonus—an enticing starter set of Nespresso capsules.

This complimentary package allows you to explore a variety of flavors from the Nespresso range, enabling you to discover your personal favorites before going out and buying some of your own personal favorites.

During our tasting experience, we found that while each capsule differed in strength, there wasn’t a single one that we disliked. This generous inclusion lets you embark on a delightful coffee journey right from the start.

The main drawback of the Nespresso Pixie is that it doesn’t come with a milk frother. If you like to indulge in lattes or other milk-based beverages, you’ll need to invest in a separate milk steamer.

Nespresso offers the Aeroccino3, an exceptional standalone milk steamer that perfectly complements your coffee experience. However, do keep in mind that purchasing the milk steamer as an add-on will incur an additional cost.

As mentioned above, the machine will automatically shut off after nine minutes of inactivity, conserving power and promoting sustainability.

However, if you prefer a longer grace period, you have the option to extend the auto-off time to 30 minutes.

Nespresso is committed to sustainability and offers a dedicated recycling program for its aluminum coffee capsules.

As a conscientious coffee enthusiast, you can actively participate in reducing waste by taking advantage of this initiative.

Simply order a free recycling bag through the Nespresso website, fill it with used capsules, and send it back to Nespresso.

Nespresso will then care of the rest, ensuring that the capsules are recycled responsibly.

Easy Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping Your Nespresso Pixie Sparkling

Maintaining the cleanliness of your Nespresso Pixie is a breeze, just like with any other Nespresso machine.

After each brewing session, eject the used capsule and empty the drip tray.

Fortunately, these components are designed to be removable, allowing for easy cleaning. Simply wash them in warm, soapy water, ensuring thorough cleaning.

Additionally, a quick wipe down of the machine’s body and coffee outlet will keep it looking pristine.

With these straightforward steps, your Pixie is ready for its next coffee-making adventure.

To ensure consistent performance, taste, and temperature of your coffee, it is recommended to descale your Nespresso Pixie every 6-12 months.

Descaling removes mineral build-up that may affect your machine over time. To successfully descale your Pixie, you will need a descaling solution kit.

Nespresso suggests using its brand’s descaling solution, which can be conveniently purchased online.

Another highly recommended descaling solution is the Urnex Dezcal Activated Scale Remover.

The descaling process typically takes around 15 minutes, rejuvenating your Pixie’s performance.

When it comes to cleaning the Nespresso Pixie, it’s essential to follow some guidelines to ensure the longevity of your machine.

Never use strong or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the surfaces.

Instead, opt for mild, odorless detergents that effectively clean without causing harm.

Soft cloths are ideal for wiping down the machine, preventing scratches or other damage.

Peace of Mind with Nespresso Pixie Warranty

When you invest in a Nespresso Pixie, you can have peace of mind knowing that it comes with a warranty that safeguards against defects in materials and workmanship.

Nespresso stands behind the quality of its product and offers a one-year warranty on the Pixie.

This warranty ensures that any issues arising from manufacturing defects will be promptly addressed, providing reassurance for the owner.

Nespresso is renowned for its responsive and dedicated customer service.

If you encounter any problems or have inquiries about your Nespresso Pixie or other Nespresso products, the customer care center is ready to assist you.

Their knowledgeable team is available to provide guidance and support, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable Nespresso experience.

During the warranty period, if your Nespresso Pixie exhibits any defects covered by the warranty, Nespresso will take care of it swiftly and efficiently.

Depending on the circumstances, they will either repair or replace the defective product at no cost to you.

This commitment to customer satisfaction demonstrates Nespresso’s dedication to delivering a high-quality coffee machine and ensuring your complete satisfaction as an owner.

Should you have any questions, concerns, or require assistance with your Nespresso Pixie or any other Nespresso products, do not hesitate to reach out to the Nespresso customer care center.

Their friendly and knowledgeable representatives are equipped to address your queries and provide the necessary guidance to resolve any issues you may encounter.

Nespresso Pixie Review: What’s The Verdict?

The Nespresso Pixie is a compact and affordable espresso machine that delivers excellent performance and convenience.

With its sleek design and simple two-button interface, it’s easy to use and program.

The Pixie’s 19 bar pressure pump ensures rich and evenly extracted espresso with a signature crema, surpassing the quality of other pod-based coffee makers.

While it may not match the espresso quality of high-end coffee shops, it exceeds expectations for an affordable machine.

The Pixie’s quick heat-up time and compatibility with Nespresso’s own capsules and third-party options offer a wide range of coffee choices.

Though lacking a milk frother and designed primarily for smaller cup sizes, the Pixie is an ideal choice for espresso enthusiasts seeking a reliable, space-saving, and budget-friendly option.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the Nespresso Pixie doesn’t come with many advanced alerts or warnings that aid in maintenance and descaling so keep this in mind.

Despite this, the Nespresso Pixie is a top contender in the realm of budget home espresso machines.

FAQ’s

Can I use any pods in Nespresso Pixie?

The Nespresso Pixie is compatible with Nespresso OriginalLine capsules, ensuring a wide variety of options for your coffee preferences.

How long does a Nespresso Pixie last?

With proper care and maintenance, a Nespresso Pixie can last for several years. It comes with a one-year warranty from Nespresso, and its durability makes it a reliable choice for long-term use.

Is Nespresso Pixie noisy?

Compared to other coffee makers, the Nespresso Pixie operates quietly, providing a pleasant brewing experience without excessive noise.

What is the equivalent of Nespresso Pixie?

Some other options that are the equivalent or very similar to the Nespresso Pixie include the Nespresso Inissia, Nespresso Essenza Mini, and Nespresso CitiZ.

Is Nespresso Pixie made by De’Longhi?

Yes, the Nespresso Pixie is manufactured by two companies, Breville and De’Longhi.

Both versions of the Pixie have slightly different designs but offer the same brewing capabilities and quality.

Does Nespresso Pixie have a frother?

The Nespresso Pixie does not come with a built-in frother.

However, Nespresso offers a standalone milk frother called the Aeroccino3, which can be purchased separately to create delicious milk-based beverages.

Does Nespresso Pixie make a latte?

While the Nespresso Pixie does not have an integrated frother, when combined with the Aeroccino3 or another milk frother, you can easily create lattes and other milk-based beverages to enjoy alongside your espresso.

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Jacob Harris

Jacob is a coffee enthusiast who turned his passion into a career. As the owner and editor of Karma Coffee Cafe, he shares his extensive knowledge and recommendations, captivating fellow coffee lovers.

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