Do you ever wish you had a magical fairy that could whip you up a delicious, rich, creamy cup of coffee every morning with the wave of a wand? Well, I can’t promise you a pretty girl with wings and a wand. However, I can offer you the Nespresso Pixie machine to deliver you that perfect cup of magical elixir-like coffee. I’d say that’s not a bad deal either. This Nespresso Pixie review will be the spellbook that you can use to harness the power of this wondrous coffee maker and summon your very own magical Pixie for yourself!
Okay, fairy tale talk aside, this is a fantastic espresso maker. You’ll come to understand precisely why that is as you read through this article. The benefits of compact coffee machines are far and wide. Depending on how you go about your daily life, you may find the Nespresso Pixie espresso maker may add that essential ingredient for your quality of life. Studies have shown that coffee machines help reduce stress and increase happiness for homeowners and employees in an office.
Hence, the benefits go beyond its delicious taste and caffeine kick. By the end of this Nespresso Pixie review, you’ll know all about this small but deadly espresso machine from its specs, features, maintenance, competitors, and more!
Nespresso Pixie Overview
What’s in the Box:
- Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine by Breville, Electric Titan Color.
- Complimentary Nespresso Capsule Starter Set.
- 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Specs
- Cord Length: 30-inches
- Reservoir Size: 24 oz
- Weight: 6.6 lbs
- Dimensions: 4.4 x 9.3 x 12.8-inches
Pixie Features
Cup Sizes
This versatile coffee machine can brew Espresso cup sizes of 1.35 oz shots or larger Lungo sizes of 5 oz shots. The foldable drip tray puts you in command of your cup sizes, allowing you to brew a wide range from a small cup of espresso to a full-sized cup of Americano.
Water Reservoir
The water tank is 24 oz, making it suitable for brewing several cups of coffee before refilling with water. As a removable water tank, cleaning and filling with water is quite simple. You have the option of detaching the reservoir from the machine and placing it under a running stream of tap water. For best results with your espresso, I’d recommend filling the water tank with fresh, filtered water.
Time To Heat up
The time it takes to heat up is something of a fairy tale because the Nespresso Pixie machine heats to the optimal brewing temperature just 25 seconds after you’ve pushed the brew button. Compared to most espresso machines out there which often take at least a minute to reach brew-ready temperature, the Pixie overwhelms the majority in fast heating by a landslide.
Low Energy Consumption
The energy-saving benefits of the Pixie espresso machine are unmatched. Perhaps the smallest and most compact machine by Nespresso, it’s no surprise that it’s got a smaller carbon footprint than the average coffee maker. In addition, there is a smart energy-saving mode that automatically switches off the machine after 9 minutes of inactivity.
Brewing Method
Nespresso machines are known for their superior coffee capsules, sophisticated extraction, and brilliant brewing process. These truly capture the richness and aroma of the fresh coffee grounds. Built with a patented extraction system that uses 19 bar pressure pump technology, coffee is extracted more thoroughly and precisely without leaving out any of that coffee flavor goodness.
Related: How Much Caffeine in Nespresso? Is it More Than Coffee?
Optional Aeroccino
You can get an Aeroccino with your Nespresso Pixie to froth your milk for you. This allows you to make lattes, cappuccinos, and all those other milk-based espresso drinks. I love a good latte every morning, and with an Aeroccino and Nespresso Pixie, you can make them economically yet still delicious.
Types of Coffee
There are countless coffee flavors, blends, and mixes you can brew up using the Nespresso Pixie coffee maker. For a creamy, frothy latte using the Aeroccino, or a stronger double shot of espresso made by pressing the Espresso brew button twice, there’s plenty of variety for everyone. You can make ice-cold drinks too. Get a cup of ice and brew over the top for an iced latte.
Refresh yourself with Nespresso’s range of cold drink possibilities. You can also warm up with their selection of hot coffees that are sure to pierce through your body and revitalize you!
Quality of Coffee
As an owner and frequent user of Nespresso espresso makers myself, I can confirm the pure class of coffee quality produced. It’s also highly consistent daily. As the leading brand of capsule manufacturing, Nespresso is the sharpest tool in the shed when it comes to delivering blends of coffee that appeal to all coffee lovers. With a vast selection available and being compatible with big-name brands such as L’OR, there is a delicious coffee blend out there with your name on it!
How to use the Nespresso Pixie coffee maker
Using the Pixie is super easy and fun. Follow the steps below for a guide on how to use your Pixie espresso maker (Refer to your Nespresso Pixie brewing instructions manual for a detailed guide):
- Plugin your espresso maker and press the Lungo or Espresso button to power on.
- Fill up the water tank with filtered fresh water (for best results) or tap water.
- Choose from the Nespresso capsules varieties and insert them into the capsule container.
- Place your preferred cup or mug on the drip tray or remove if necessary (for taller cups).
- Select the Espresso or Lungo size using their respective buttons.
- Wait until the machine stops dispensing and button lights stop flashing.
- Enjoy your Nespresso single-serve coffee!
Pros and Cons of the Nespresso Pixie
Pros
- Superior 19-bar pressure pump coffee extraction that produces high-quality espresso.
- Smaller compact design is easy to transport and fits on any kitchen counter space.
- The automatic shutoff feature makes the machine energy efficient by turning it off after nine minutes of inactivity.
- A removable drip tray allows you to use taller cups when dispensing coffee.
- A 1-year manufacturer warranty ensures lasting quality.
Cons
- Not compatible with Nespresso VertuoLine or Keurig K-Cups.
- Small water tank compared to most Nespresso machines.
How does it compare to other Nespresso machines?
Nespresso Pixie vs Essenza
The Nespresso Pixie and Essenza coffee makers are very similar in their dimensions and performance. Both considered top-of-the-range compact brewers. Nevertheless, there are differences. If I were to summarize those differing features, it comes down to the Essenza being an even more compact version of the Pixie.
A smaller water reservoir of 20 oz (Pixie is 24 oz), slightly smaller dimensions, and a smaller pod storage compartment are all examples of how the Essenza takes the compact design and lightweight properties to another level. The bottom line is if the Pixie still isn’t small enough for you, then definitely go with the Essenza! Learn more in our Nespresso Essenza review.
Nespresso Pixie vs Vertuo
The VertuoLine series are a breed of their own, differing vastly to Nespresso’s Original line of products (see our Nespresso Vertuo vs. Original for more details). Essentially considered the future of brewing espresso, the Vertuo uses barcode reading technology to read the specific type of coffee capsule inserted and adjust its parameters accordingly.
As such, the brew sizes are predetermined using the in-built scanner, and things like the water volume, pressure, rotational speed, and temperature are all adjusted to the optimal parameters for precision brewing. I’d recommend the Vertuo series if you are intrigued by the latest in centrifusion brewing extraction. On the other hand, stick with the Pixie if you want something small, simple, and compatible with the Original line of Nespresso capsules. Learn more in our Nespresso Vertuo review.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Descaling a Nespresso Pixie
Every once in a while, you will need to descale your Nespresso machine. This means clearing out all the excess residue from coffee pods and other dirt that builds up in the machine over time. To properly descale your espresso maker for a thorough interior clean, use the following step-by-step instructions below:
- First, empty out the tank of water and fill it with Nespresso descaling solution.
- Hold the Espresso and Lungo buttons until they flash, signaling the descale mode.
- Place one large container on the drip tray and press the Lungo button.
- Wait until the machine stops dispensing and the tank is empty.
- Fill up the tank again with water this time and repeat steps 3-4.
- Your machine is now descaled and rinsed! Hold the Lungo button for 7 seconds to exit descale mode.
Cleaning a Nespresso Pixie
To clean your Nespresso Pixie espresso machine, you will want to first empty the used capsule container by pulling out the foldable tray which is connected to the capsule compartment, so it all comes out. Next, empty the pods in a recyclable bin and clean the capsule container by rinsing it under a sink. Alternatively, you could place these items in the dishwasher as they are removable and compatible with such.
You may also clean the water reservoir by removing it and rinsing it under a sink, and applying your choice of detergent as preferred. This part is also dishwasher safe, as with any of the removable parts of the Pixie, so you may opt for this option as well. One of the best things about this espresso machine is the flexibility of cleaning options available, thanks to its removable components and compact construction.
The actual brewer itself is strictly not dishwasher-friendly, so be sure to avoid doing this at all costs, as you could damage the electrical components or scratch the exterior beyond repair. Instead, use a damp cloth and some spray-and-wipe or equivalent cleaning solution and run the fabric around the machine. The lightweight design makes it easy to lift the machine off the table. You can clean beneath it too so that you can keep both your espresso machine and kitchen bench nice and shiny.
Nespresso Pixie FAQ
Which Nespresso model is best?
I like the Nespresso Citiz and Milk best as it is the machine I purchased for myself and have been using for years without fail. Nevertheless, the best device for you is a matter of perspective, and the Pixie is still a top-tier machine for a more lightweight and compact solution to coffee brewing.
Does the Nespresso Pixie make regular coffee?
Primarily designed to be an espresso maker, the Pixie produces the best results by making single or double espresso shots rather than regular coffee. So while the taste will always more closely resemble an espresso, you can still program your machine to brew larger cups of coffee that will more closely taste like a mild, regular coffee.
Is the Nespresso Pixie discontinued?
Yes, the Nespresso Pixie espresso maker is no longer being manufactured and is now a discontinued product. Stocks are still available, however, so you can purchase them through the Nespresso online store or via Amazon.
How long does it take to make a Nespresso?
With a heat-up time of just 25 seconds, you can easily brew a cup of Nespresso single-serve coffee in under a minute.
Is Nespresso Pixie a good machine?
When it comes to brewing coffee, the Nespresso Pixie performs just as well as any other Nespresso coffee maker. It is also compact and lightweight, which is an added advantage for some customers.
How old is Nespresso Pixie?
The Nespresso Pixie is just about a decade old, with its first release taking place in 2011.
Does Nespresso Pixie make a latte?
Using the Nespresso Pixie and Aeroccino milk frother bundle pack, you can make a cafe latte by using the milk frother to heat and froth milk and then pour over your shot of espresso.
What type of pods does Nespresso Pixie use?
Nespresso Pixie uses the Original Line Nespresso pods. Therefore, it is not compatible with Vertuo coffee pods.
Can you use reusable pods in Nespresso Pixie?
Yes, Nespresso Pixie is compatible with a range of branded reusable coffee capsules.
What pods does Nespresso Pixie use?
The Pixie uses the Original Line Nespresso coffee capsules. Therefore, it is not compatible with Vertuo coffee pods.
Is the Nespresso Pixie loud?
The Pixie is designed to brew at minimum volume, though it will still emit a not too loud sound.
Is Nespresso Pixie made by Delonghi?
Yes, the Pixie is manufactured by a few brands, most notably DeLonghi and Breville.
Can you use Starbucks pods in Nespresso Pixie?
Starbucks has made a Nespresso compatible coffee capsule selection that can be used for Nespresso Pixie espresso machines.
Which Nespresso Pixie Should You Buy?
The main difference between the DeLonghi Pixie and the Breville Pixie is the materials used. If you prefer aluminum construction then go for DeLonghi, but if you prefer ABS plastic material, then go for the Breville version. Additionally, you can choose to buy the Pixie single-serve coffee maker as a stand-alone product, or you can purchase the Aeroccino milk frother bundle, which I would recommend for cafe lattes or flat whites.
Overall Review of Nespresso Pixie
The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine is one of the best espresso makers on the market. This single-serve coffee maker brews espresso using a 19 bar pressure pump brewing chamber for an espresso quality of unmatched richness. To put it into perspective, average single-serve coffee makers use around 16 bars of pressure. So, the Pixie machine’s energy in brewing is significantly above most capsule-based espresso machines.
In addition, both espresso and lungo shots are made possible with this machine. This appeals to all espresso enthusiasts who yearn for the taste of fresh ground coffee.
Easier to use than most coffee makers, the Pixie requires you to add filtered water to the reservoir, insert a pod from the many Nespresso capsules available, and press the espresso shot button. Then. you can enjoy a great espresso, quality cup of coffee, or delicious cafe latte. Unlike other single-serve coffee makers, the Pixie is easy to clean due to its lightweight and compact size. Easily lift the machine up and clean under it, and enjoy a faster descaling process thanks to its petite design.
This magical machine is rated 4.7-stars on Amazon’s Nespresso Pixie reviews page, making it a top-quality product validated by 959 global ratings. Customers have chosen the most notable features of the Pixie to be its ease of use, ease of cleaning, blending power, flavor, and value for money.
If it were up to me, I would’ve put its compact and lightweight design up there with its top features too! Hopefully, this Nespresso Pixie review has shed some light on this nippy fairy of a machine, but why take my word for it? Read what the rest of the world says about the Pixie espresso maker below and get one for yourself with the link below!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SRDQBY2#customerReviews
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