After writing the post on Nespresso Pixie and whether it was discontinued or not (it is not). I saw that the question of what the difference between Pixie and Essenza Mini came up a lot. Especially that both brewers are quite compact, small and nearly identical in features.

So, if you’re contemplating the purchase of either a Pixie or Essenza Mini, this post is for you.

Features of Nespresso Pixie

[amazon box=”B01M715YU0″ description=”One of Nespresso’s earliest machines that is still going strong. The Pixie has a premium and sturdy design, compact size and overall reliable functionality. It has two serving sizes: Espresso 1. 35 oz. and Lungo 2. 75 oz”]

First thing you’ll noticed about the Pixie is its striking industrial and elegant design. It is made of a combination of plastic and metal, which isn’t common in Nespresso machines. It has metal side panels and a metal handle. The use of metal parts gives it a bit of a heft and sturdiness that you will not find in other Nespresso machines.

Specifications:

  • OriginalLine machine, compatible with all OriginalLine capsules including refillable pods and 3rd party pods.
  • 19-bars pump pressure.
  • 24 oz water reservoir.
  • Used capsule drawer holds up to 9 capsules.
  • Backlights along the sides of the machine will light up as an accent. Color will change to red to indicate an empty water reservoir.
  • Foldable cup tray allows you to accommodate taller cups.
  • Both serving sizes are reprogrammable.
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.4 x 9.3 x x 12.8in.
  • Weight: 6.6 lbs

Pros and Cons of Nespresso Pixie

Pros include:

  • Premium materials and beautiful industrial design.
  • Compact size.
  • Backlight indicator
  • Capsule drawer holds a good amount of used capsules.

Cons:

  • Metal side panels adds a bit of weight to it.

Features of Nespresso Essenza Mini

[amazon box=”B073ZGWN12″ description=”Essenza Mini is Nespresso’s smallest OriginalLine machine. It has a clean design, makes two sizes: espresso and lungo, and it’s a perfect machine to fit anywhere, from home kitchens to offices or dorms.”]

Essenza Mini is an even smaller brewer than the Pixie. It has a nice clean design, but the material is not as premium as Pixie’s. It’s all plastic, and comes a several colors. But because it is all plastic, it is naturally lighter in weight, making it easier to carry around and relocate, if that’s something you might need to do often.

Specifications:

  • OriginalLine machines, compatible with all OriginalLine capsules including refillable capsules and 3rd party capsules.
  • 19-bar pump pressure.
  • 20 oz water reservoir.
  • Dimensions (W/H/D): 3.3 x 8 x 12.9 in
  • Weight: 5.1 lbs
  • Used capsule drawer holds up to 5 capsules.

Pros and Cons of Essenza Mini:

Pros:

  • Small in size.
  • Lightweight, easy to move and fit anywhere.

Cons:

  • Used capsule drawer needed to be emptied often.
  • Materials are okay, but not as nice as Pixie.

Pixie vs. Essenza Mini – What’s The Difference?

[amazon table=”1548″]

You must be thinking, there’s no actual difference between these two machines? You’re definitely not wrong…

If you’re wondering about functionality, and how the brewers make the coffee, there is no real difference. They are identical in that part.

However, if we want to talk about design, then there are a few differences to address:

  • Both models are considered compact, but Essenza Mini is smaller. with 3.3 width, you can literally fit this machine wherever you want.
  • The weight is another thing to address. If you ever want to take your coffee machine on travels with you (which I’ve done with my Essenza Mini), the Pixie is a heavier machine to travel with, and the Essenza Mini would make a better choice.
  • But, if you want a brewer that will sit on your kitchen countertop, looking gorgeous, upscale and elegant, you’ll want the Pixie for you. The metal side panels are available in several colors, but I find the silver to look best.

Which One Should You Buy?

Between the Pixie and Essenza Mini, it is 100% a matter of preference. Are you willing to pay more for premium materials and better design (Pixie)? Or would you prefer to save a bit and get the more practical machine (Essenza Mini)?

Whichever model you buy, you’ll still get the same quality of Nespresso OriginalLine coffee.

Nespresso Machines

About the Author

Nicole

Enjoying coffee, one pod at a time. Bringing all my coffee expertise to this blog.

View All Articles