Nespresso CitiZ Review: Should You Buy the Citiz and Milk Frother Bundle?

When it comes to Nespresso machines, you have tons of options to pick from as you can see from our Nespresso machine comparison guide. One that pops up in many conversations is the CitiZ. The question is, does this coffee maker really live up to all the hype? Is it worth your money? Will it perform, as expected, day after day?

Now is the time to find out with our Nespresso CitiZ review. While purchasing a coffee machine may not seem like that big of a deal, it is. In fact, how it works and how easy it is to use can have an impact on your entire day. If you want “just the facts”, we definitely recommend this machine. When it comes to the options available, it’s at the top of the list.

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Nespresso CitiZ Review

This is a no-frills, attractive, single-serve espresso maker that uses pods. The CitiZ has a sleek design that fits well in even cramped kitchens.

Similar to all the other model options provided by Nespresso, the capsule system (a.k.a., pods) make it possible for you to enjoy delicious, high-quality espresso without much stress or fuss.

Design/Build Quality 4/5 ⭐

The machine has a plastic outer shell combined with a clear plastic reservoir. The CitiZ has a nice overall build and a slim footprint. This means it will fit even on crowded kitchen counters. It is available in four color options and comes with a removable cup tray for larger cups. We believe this machine has an elegant design and a high-end feel.

The inside is fairly impressive, too, with a 19-bar extraction system, internal mechanisms, and reservoir, all designed to work with the compact machine. Even better, the smaller size doesn’t negatively impact the performance. It is a small and powerful machine.

One of the most significant drawbacks of the design is its difficulty in monitoring the water tank. The main reason for this is because you can’t see it from the front of the machine. Also, the cup tray mentioned above isn’t the most effective because full-sized cups still don’t fit well, even if you remove it.

Performance 4/5 ⭐

When it comes to performance, the Nespresso CitiZ exceeds most users’ expectations. It can work with original capsules, and when you purchase the machine, you typically receive an entire set of taster capsules to try.

If you use the machine for espresso, you will find it is aromatic and flavorful; it also has a significant layer of cream, regardless of the type of coffee you choose to use. Overall, we were impressed with the quality of the espresso made by this compact machine.

That’s not to say it doesn’t have some issues. After using the machine for a while, you may encounter a few problems. Most of the problems occur between six months and two years from the first time you used it. For an affordable machine and not a “real” espresso maker, that’s not horrible. However, since it is an investment, you may be like us and expect a little more.

One of the most common issues is the unit leaking water. Since there is no built-in filter to soften hard water, and it has a removable water reservoir, you are bound to experience some wear and tear as time passes. The good news is, there are a few tips you can implement to help avoid this issue for as long as possible:

• Only use filtered water (as much as you can)
• Only add the amount of water you need
• Regularly clean the machine, but not too often
• Don’t let water sit in the reservoir when it isn’t being used

Ease of Use 5/5 ⭐

Using the CitiZ is simple, thanks to the two-button interface. Each button is one-touch and programmed to the desired volumes. The water flow stops automatically after dispersing 1.35 ounces of espresso or 3.7 ounces of lungo. It is possible to pause the brew or even ad more once it finishes when you push the one-touch button again. An appealing feature offered by the CitiZ is that you can teach the machine your desired volume if you hold the buttons down.

When it comes to cleaning, the model offers a built-in descaling mod. However, there is no dedicated cleaning indicator or button. This is not the most intuitive process, which means you will likely have to rely on the user manual that comes with your machine. The brand recommends using Nespresso descaling solution and running it through after 300 up to 1200 cups. It all depends on how hard your water is.

Cleaning the water reservoir, drip tray, and capsule container is simple since they can be removed and washed separately. The sleek design of the machine is easy to wipe clean, too. Compared to other options, the CitiZ is pretty easy to keep clean.

Features 4/5 ⭐

When comparing espresso makers, the CitiZ is a streamlined machine. Because of this, it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that come with other machines. The good news is that these streamlined features mean the machine is straightforward to use. This is good news for the early morning fog you may find yourself dealing with when you stumble out of bed.

The CitiZ comes with a programmable auto-off feature and will turn off automatically after operating for nine minutes. However, you can change this setting up to 30 minutes if you would like.

There is also a used capsule container that will hold between nine and 11 capsules. The machine does not eject the used capsules automatically after the brewing is complete, which means you need to raise and lower the holder after making a cup.

If you purchase the basic model, you don’t receive any type of milk accessories; however, you can choose the CitiZ&Milk model, including the Aeroccino milk frother. This is built into the side of the machine, but it is cheaper to buy it separately. If you like lattes, this may be a great option, and it’s more affordable than other models such as the Creatista and Lattissima.

Here is a basic breakdown of the features offered with the machine:

• Fast heat up time
• 19 high-pressure bar pump
• Adjustable folding cup tray for your short and tall cups
• Programmable buttons for custom or pre-set volumes
• Auto-off feature that can be set for nine to 30 minutes
• Instruction booklet
• 10 capsule capacity
• 34-ounce water reservoir

Value for Money 4/5 ⭐

The CitiZ is a well-designed, sleek espresso maker that has a relatively small footprint. While it doesn’t have amazing brewing options, it is easy to use and clean. If you prefer lattes, you can upgrade to the milk frothing bundle.

When it comes to the value for money, this is a model that is more affordable than some of the other ones available for sale today.

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Nespresso CitiZ Overview 

Pros ✅

• Low profile design takes up minimal real estate on counters
• Quickly produces delicious espresso
• Simple cleaning and maintenance
• Good value for the money
• Sleek design
• Auto and programmable auto-off feature

Cons 🚫

• It only works with specific brands of capsules
• The milk frother can be challenging to use
• It makes a lot of noise when turned on

Parts and Components

To fully understand if the Nespresso CitiZ is right for you, it is important to learn about its individual parts and components.

Capsules

This system uses Nespresso’s capsule system. It can be purchased in various styles, flavors, and strengths. Each of the capsule options offered is recyclable, which helps to reduce your carbon footprint. This means you don’t have to feel guilty for having multiple cups of coffee throughout the day.

One of the most appealing parts of the capsule system is that everyone who uses the machine can enjoy their preferred strength and flavor of coffee when desired. Also, the machine is designed to produce a large amount of crema.

After the brewing cycle is complete, the used capsules are held in an internal tray. You must empty these after every 11 uses.

Brew Options

Like the other base models offered by Nespresso, the CitiZ offers two different brew strengths–lungo and espresso. The espresso is the standard shot, with lungo being a longer pull. The lungo is similar to the Americano when you use this machine.

The capsules are targeted to a specific brewing option. Because of that, you get a different strength with each option. Most lungo cups will not have an intense flavor. Espresso is the stronger of the two. If you plan to make a latte, then using espresso is the best option.

Brewing time is faster than other models, too. Usually, you only have to wait between 25 to 30 seconds.

Water Tank

The CitiZ’s water tank can hold 34 ounces. This means the tank is slightly larger than the other base models. Thanks to the larger size, you don’t have to refill it as often. You will also find that removing the tank is simple and convenient. When you need to top off, the process is smooth and only takes a few seconds.

Citiz Espresso Machine and Milk Bundle

There are a few stand-out features of this machine that make it worth the investment.

Aesthetics

When you look at the picture of the machine online, it’s okay, nothing special. However, once you receive it, the sleek lines and compact design really make this a “looker.” The machine is designed with several chrome accidents for the spout, drip trays, and lever. It also feels solid, which is nice and helps show how durable it is.

Ease of Use and Speed

Making espresso has never been easier. Drop in your pod, pull the lever down, hit the button. You will wait at most 60 seconds, and your espresso will be ready to go.

Also, it’s not possible to put the pod in the wrong way. This makes it an excellent gift for older coffee drinkers in your life. Even people who don’t do well with gadgets will be able to use the machine.

Empty Pod Bin

Unlike other pod coffee makers, where you have to remove a pod after each use, CitiZ comes with a pod bin. There’s room for approximately 10 pods, and the bin is in an out-of-the-way location–just beneath the spout. When you lift the lever to put a new pod in, the old one is sent to the bin.

Smaller pods will have a little water remaining inside after they are ejected. This is why there is also a drip tray beneath the bin, making it easy to clean the machine.

Use Different Cup Sizes

The espresso tray will connect to the emptied pod bin. It can also be flipped up to let larger cups under it. Larger tumblers may not fit, though. Keep this in mind if you are used to using larger cups for your coffee.

FAQ

When trying to make a buying decision, having all the answers is helpful. Here you can find some of the most asked questions about this machine.

What Capsules (Pods) Are Compatible With the Machine?

For the CitiZ, you can use any of the capsules offered with the Original line from Nespresso. There are several flavor options to choose from, which means you can easily find one you enjoy.

Will Ground Coffee Work With the Machine?

It is possible to use ground coffee if you purchase a reusable capsule that is compatible with the maker. While Nespresso does not sell these, you can find them online. Once you have the right capsule, you can fill it up with your finely ground coffee beans and enjoy your cup.

Can the CitiZ Be Used To Make a Latte?

The CitiZ only provides you with espresso. If you want a latte, you must purchase a separate milk frother or have a whisk and some elbow grease to create the creamy latte you want.

You also have the option to purchase the CitiZ&Milk bundle. You have an Aeroccino (this is the milk frother from Nespresso) built-in with this option. It will quickly heat up and froth the milk. At this point, you can mix the milk and espresso, which is going to create the tasty latte you want. If you have a bigger budget for your purchase, you can upgrade to the Nespresso machine that comes with a milk-steamer built-in.

Verdict: 

The Nespresso CitiZ makes a good espresso. It’s also simple to use. When you purchase yours and first take it out of the box, there’s a good chance your impression will be a positive one. When compared to other professional espresso makers for home use, this pod option is much more affordable.

If you care about how your appliances look on your counter and want to reduce the number of trips you take to the coffee shop, then this is an excellent investment to make.

With this device, you get all you would expect from a Nespresso machine, such as coffee flavor options and a functional design. For an overall rating, we believe it is a great, convenient, and easy-to-use pod machine. If you are looking for a machine that will get the job done, this one will not disappoint. 

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