Nespresso CitiZ vs Pixie: What's The Difference?

Nespresso CitiZ vs Pixie: What's the difference?

Nespresso espresso machines offer convenience, compact design and the best possible coffee from a capsule-based system.

There are two types of Nespresso machines:

  • OriginalLine
  • VertuoLine

Both lines have their pros and cons.

I prefer OriginalLine brewers.

The Nespresso CitiZ and Pixie are from this superior line.

That makes them very similar in form and function.

So, what are their differences?

Nespresso CitiZ vs Pixie: The 6 Differences

There are 6 differences between the Nespresso CitiZ and Pixie:

  1. Water Reservoir: CitiZ has a larger reservoir
  2. Empty Reservoir Detection: Pixie has a red light, CitiZ doesn’t have anything
  3. Exterior: Both units differ in design style; Pixie has an aluminum exterior
  4. Capsule Loading: CitiZ has fewer moving parts with drop-and-done loading system
  5. Cord Length: CitiZ has a longer cord
  6. Dimensions & Weight: Pixie is smaller and more compact

Can I sum up those differences in one sentence?

Both the CitiZ and Pixie do the exact same thing, but the CitiZ has a larger reservoir while the Pixie is more compact with a retro design.

Quick Nespresso CitiZ & Pixie Review

For detailed reviews of these two Nespresso models, check out our separate Nespresso CitiZ review and Nespresso Pixie review.

If you want a quick combined summary of the Nespresso brewing system, this is it.

Design & Performance

The Nespresso brewing system features speedy 25-second heating time and 30-second brew time, giving you the beverage you need in around 1 minute.

My favorite feature, though, is the custom size selector. Press and hold either the espresso or lungo button and the machine will begin brewing your capsule. Release when you’ve reached your desired volume, and the machine will remember that volume for next time.

The only major downside? The pump can be noisy.

Overall, simple brewing with some convenient features and zero bloat.

Durability

Though the warranty on these brewer is just 2 years, that’s still better than most other kitchen appliances (including other brewers). The machines are made in Switzerland of quality components and are built to last.

Appearance

The entire Nespresso line is aesthetically appealing, though I tend to like the look of the CitiZ a little bit more.

Quality of Espresso

This is the best espresso you’ll get from a capsule. In my opinion these Nespresso OriginalLine brewers outperform the “more advanced” VertuoLine machines, delivering a richer espresso with a truer crema. While not as good as the espresso you’ll get out of a real espresso machine, it’s awesome quality for the cost and convenience.

Ease of Cleaning

Rinsing and descaling are all you need to worry about. To rinse, just press and hold the lungo button to run water through the machine. To descale, do the same thing but fill the reservoir with a mixture of 50% water, 50% white vinegar.

Which Model Is Right For You?

Choose the Nespresso CitiZ if you value the larger water reservoir or really love its design. While prices fluctuate, generally this machine is going to be pricier than the Pixie, and at the end of the day they do the same thing.

Choose the Nespresso Pixie if you don’t mind the smaller water reservoir, really love the design, or want to save some money.

Nespresso CitiZ vs Pixie

The Coffee Maven's Official Comparison
Nespresso CitiZ
Overall
88

Nespresso CitiZ

34 oz Water Tank & Modern Design
Notable for its 34 oz reservoir, the largest among mid-range Nespresso OriginalLine machines, the CitiZ is a compact, reliable brewer with a powerful heating element. Check out the CitiZ & Milk for an integrated frother.
Nespresso Pixie
Overall
89

Nespresso Pixie

24 oz Water Tank & Retro Design
Our favorite bang-for-your-buck Nespresso machine, the Pixie delivers no-fuss espresso in a durable, scratch-resistant, awesome-looking aluminum case. If you don't need the fancy extras, you want the Pixie.

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About The Coffee Maven
bryan de luca
Bryan De Luca

I'm Bryan but most people know me as The Coffee Maven. I grew up outside Boston, Massachusetts and received my Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from Providence College. My first introduction to coffee was during my college days, when I used it as a source of caffeine to fuel late-night study sessions, but soon I became obsessed with the chemistry of coffee. How did changes to water temperature or contact time affect its taste? Why do beans from Africa taste fruity while beans from Indonesia taste spicy? I launched The Coffee Maven in February 2017 to explore these questions and help others brew their perfect cup. Welcome to my site, and thanks for reading!