If you are looking for a compact and sleek espresso machine that has wireless connectivity and won’t make you break the bank, my comparison of the Nespresso Essenza Plus vs Mini is for you.
The Essenza Plus is the better one since it has a larger water tank and more pre-programmable drinks. And as for the Essenza Mini, as its name implies, being more compact is its only advantage.
Nespresso Essenza Plus Vs Mini: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Nespresso Essenza Plus Vs Mini: Differences
The Essenza Plus won 3-1 against the Essenza Mini, no surprise. Keep scrolling down to reveal all the differences between them!
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Tie
Heating System
Let’s talk about a feature of these machines that’s a total game-changer for busy mornings. I’m not exaggerating when I say they heat up lightning fast – in just about 25 seconds. Pop in a coffee capsule, close the lid, pick your cup size, and your coffee starts brewing before you know it
They even get cooler with a programmable energy-saving mode. They’ll automatically turn off after nine minutes. And for those days when you’re lingering over your coffee a bit longer, you can extend this auto-shutdown feature up to 30 minutes. Honestly, it’s the little things like this that make me love them even more!
Brewing System
They both use a 19-bar high-pressure pump to squeeze every last bit of flavor out of your coffee capsules. The result? A luxurious, steaming hot cup of espresso topped with that dreamy, foamy crema that you usually only find in coffee shops. No more standing in line, no more overpriced café bills, thank God!
Design & Convenience
Winner: Nespresso Essenza Plus
Dimensions & User Interface
| Nespresso Essenza Plus | Nespresso Essenza Mini | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.6 x 15.2 x 10 inches | 3.3 x 12.8 x 8 inches |
| Weight | 7.17 lbs | 5 lbs |
Both have a minimalist and simple look with a basic plastic exterior that’s surprisingly chic. Their small footprint means they can squeeze into even the tiniest of countertops, making them perfect for small apartments, small kitchens, or even your office desk. They come in several color options so you can choose one that matches your kitchen decor best.
Just like most Nespresso models, their removable water tanks are tucked away at the back, so they’re out of sight but easy to access. Their drip trays and cup holders are right up front, making them super easy to clean. Their capsule containers are right at the top, so popping in your favorite coffee capsule is a breeze.
Cup Clearance
| Nespresso Essenza Plus | Nespresso Essenza Mini |
|---|---|
| 4.5 inches | 4.5 inches |
Well, their drip trays are removable, allowing you to brew the drink in a tall glass or a super-sized mug by removing them. But in most cases, you don’t need to because there’s enough room for any espresso-standard cup.
Water Reservoir & Used Capsule Container
| Nespresso Essenza Plus | Nespresso Essenza Mini | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 1 liter | 0.6 liter |
| Used Capsule Container | 6 pods | 6 pods |
Their tanks are on the small side, and the Mini is smaller. This is okay for a small space, but if you’re a hardcore coffee drinker or live with a bunch of caffeine enthusiasts, you’ll find yourself refilling the tank quite often. The only good thing is that refilling these tanks is a breeze.
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Nespresso Essenza Plus
Drink Options
| Nespresso Essenza Plus | Nespresso Essenza Mini |
|---|---|
| Espresso (40ml) Lungo (110ml) | Espresso (40ml) Lungo (110ml) Americano Americano XL |
The Essenza Mini keeps it super straightforward with just 2 buttons: one for a classic 40 ml espresso shot and another for a longer 110 ml lungo. Meanwhile, the Essenza Plus comes with 3 pre-programmable buttons: one for espresso, one for lungo, and a bonus one for hot water.
The thing is that by combining the hot water with either of the other two buttons, the Essenza Plus can prepare Americano or Americano XL. Having a hot water function means you can just boil water for herbal tea with it when there is no pod in the compartment.
These machines can’t make milky drinks themselves because they both lack a frother. So if you want to brew cappuccinos or lattes, you’ll need to team up with a separate milk frother, like the Aeroccino frother.
Programmability
| Adjustable Settings | Nespresso Essenza Plus | Nespresso Essenza Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Strength | No | No |
| Coffee Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Texture | No | No |
These machines have everything pre-programmed to turn capsules of your choice into quick caffeinated drinks. You cannot change or customize anything except for the length of every single shot. So, if you’re into experimenting and playing around with different settings, these might not be your cup of tea.
Quick Rundown Of Nespresso Essenza Plus
- OPTIONS: Nespresso Essenza Plus is always there when you need it. Whether it be for an espresso, a lungo, an americano or even tea, it’s here for you, and anybody else you want to treat
- SMART SYSTEM: It features a smart reordering system that's activated at the touch of a button. That way, you'll never run out of your favorite capsules
- PERFECT RESULTS: Fast heat-up time and 19 bar pump ensures perfect results
- SENDS ALERTS: To show you how much it cares about your coffee, it even sends out an alert when it needs descaling. A little plus, which might just be essential
- DESIGN: Featuring a stylish design, this machine fits into any kitchen seamlessly
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Nespresso Essenza Mini
- Compact machine offers 2 programmable cup sizes; Espresso Lungo
- 19 bar high-pressure pump for barista-style flavor and aroma
- Fast heat-up system reaches ideal temperature in just 25 seconds
- Automatic shut-off feature 9 minutes after last use
- Machine is compatible with Nespresso Original espresso capsules.
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References
- Nespresso Essenza Plus: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/nespresso-essenza-plus-espresso-machine-by-de-longhi-black-en200bca/p/EN200B
- Nespresso Essenza Mini: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/nespresso-essenza-mini-espresso-machine-by-de-longhi-black-en85bca/p/EN85B
Felix Hendricks is a skilled barista with over 12 years of experience. He excels in crafting coffee and has a strong foundation in coffee machine mechanics. Felix holds a Coffee Machine Maintenance Certification from the Coffee Equipment Technical Institute, showcasing his ability to diagnose and repair coffee machines. He’s also worked as a quality control specialist, selecting premium coffee beans for optimal flavor. Felix has a diverse work history, including stints at renowned coffee spots like Café Euphoria & Starbucks. His expertise in both brewing and machine maintenance makes him a respected figure in the coffee industry.