When you hear the term “Pixie”, your thoughts would jump to those tiny, loud creatures with pointy ears in fairytales. When you add “Espresso Maker” beside it… let’s admit it, you’d be a little confused!
However, the Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker has taken over the hearts of its customers, since it came out in 2011, as one of the best home espresso machines. That makes it almost a decade old!
You expect a machine with such a cute name to be something colorful, that almost works like a toy, and is loud. This beauty is anything but!
It’s got an ultra-sleek design and is unbelievably compact for a coffee machine. It’s meant for you coffee lovers to carry it with you when you’re away from home. Some people keep one in their vacation homes, others keep one in their office. They just can’t live without it!
It’s undeniably one of Nespresso’s most popular and well-loved devices to have come out. These Nespresso Pixie reviews will breakdown everything that is good or bad about the device, and all the features you should look out for!
How to Brew with Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker
The Nespresso Pixie Original Machine, though small, has multiple functionalities that allow it to be extremely versatile. Besides an espresso, it can brew a lungo, cappuccino, latte, etc. – all with the use of just two buttons!
It’s absolutely possible though, because of its clever concept and thoughtful design. Everything about this device is intentional and calculated, all the while making it look gorgeous on your counter.
But let’s start from the beginning, step by step.
First off, you’ve got to make sure that the water reservoir is full. It’s behind the device and comes off easily, so you can carry it to the water filter or sink to fill it up.
Check that your water is fresh, so you don’t infuse the flavor of coffee with any unpleasant odor.
Now, it’s time to begin the brewing process.
Start the machine by pressing one of the buttons on top of the machine – we’ll explain what each does in a second. The buttons will begin blinking, indicating that the machine is heating up.
Notice that there’s a silver handle in front of the dispenser. Pull that up to open the extraction chamber when the light stops blinking. Pop in a Nespresso capsule, then pull the handle back down to close it.
To get Nespresso Pixie with the capsules, click here.
Next, place your cup on the cup holder underneath the spout. This cup holder is designed to support a small espresso glass, but you can fold it up to fit taller glasses if you’re looking to make a cappuccino or latte.
Now, back to the two buttons showing icons of cups on the device. The smaller one indicates an espresso shot while the larger one is for a lungo. Press the button for the coffee you desire and let the machine do its magic!
Note that though the device only has two buttons, it’s actually completely programmable. You simply have to hold down on one of the buttons when you’re brewing and release when the glass is filled to your desired amount.
This function is then saved so the next time you wish to brew a cup, you press the button and get the amount you saved, every time!
After every use, remember to run water through the machine to clean out the residual coffee left from the last run. Also, empty the extraction chamber. Pulling the handle upwards drops the used Nespresso capsule into the capsule container.
This capsule container is located right under the chamber, which makes it very convenient to dispose of. The container can carry up to 10 used capsules and is removable. It pulls out easily by tugging on the cup holder in front of it.
The machine turns off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity, conserving energy. Nespresso Pixie also provides free postage-paid shipping bags to recycle used pods. It’s always a relief to know that a brand practices business responsibly.
How You Can Clean a Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker
Cleaning a Nespresso Pixie may seem daunting at first. Can you put in vinegar?
How do you run water through it? Which button are you supposed to press?
Questions. Questions.
Although it does require a little bit of practice to get used to, it’s totally easy if you have the instruction manual in front of you. Moreover, you’re required to descale the machine only once a year!
There’s a descaling kit available, which is highly recommended by the Nespresso Pixie club. It comes with a special solution specifically designed for the Pixie. This is because using vinegar to clean the machine is discouraged as it may cause some damage.
Before you begin, ensure that the extraction chamber is clean by pulling the level up and then closing it. Empty the used capsule chamber and drip tray as well.
To begin the process of cleaning, add half a liter of fresh water and a full sachet of the Nespresso Descaling Solution to the water tank. Pop the reservoir back into the machine. Place a large container of a capacity of at least 0.6 liters.
Switch the machine on and make sure that the machine is heating up. After it’s done, press both the buttons down for 3 seconds, simultaneously. This is how you enter the descaling mode.
Then, press the lungo button to run the solution through the machine.
Run the used solution through the machine again, using the same process. Next, you rinse the water tank and fill it up with fresh water.
Run this clean water through the machine twice to make sure that the no residue of the descaling solution is left in the machine or the reservoir. Easy as pie!
Exit the descaling mode by holding down both the buttons for three seconds again. Rinse out the drip tray again as well so that the descaling solution doesn’t stay pooled in.
And you’re done!
This whole process only takes 15 to 20 minutes tops. Be extremely careful of the descaling solution as well; make sure it doesn’t get into your eyes or mouth because that could be dangerous.
Nespresso Citiz vs Pixie- What’s the Difference
Both these machines are extremely well made for brewing coffee at home. They’re fast and efficient, and they both make exceptional espressos!
If you’re wondering about which one to get though, it all comes down to your preferences.
The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is – you’ve guessed it – smaller than the Citiz by one foot. Which means it weighs less, about 2.6 pounds compared to 3.6 pounds, and has a smaller water tank.
It also requires less power than the Citiz, even though they have identical 19 bar high-pressure pumps. The Pixie also brews faster than the Citiz. That little beauty really packs a punch!
The Citiz, as it is taller, can fit a taller cup under its coffee dispenser. It’s actually got two drip trays that you can fold up or remove, while the Pixie only has one.
Other than these physical differences, they’re essentially almost the same. The Nespresso Pixie just fits in much nicer on counters, especially for people who have limited space in their kitchens!
The Nespresso Pixie Review: Is It Worth the Price?
The Nespresso Pixie is truly a worthwhile investment as some of the best Nespresso machine reviews have stated. It is designed to be efficient, despite its size. Every feature of this device has some kind of role to play.
With a water capacity of 24 ounces, it can serve up to at least 10 espresso shots and about 8 lungo shots! It’s also great that you can customize the amount to your liking, enabling you to make some lattes or cappuccinos with it too!
Its compact size helps you save an insane amount of counter space. Given its gorgeous, sleek look, this device is certainly a looker. You really can’t help but show it off!
The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is powered by a 19 bar high-pressure pump that allows for a brilliant blend of coffee that you only ever find at coffeehouses. Whenever you need a pick-me-up, simply grab a Nespresso capsule and pop one in!
It’s nice that there are only two buttons on top of the machine. It stops the device from being too cluttered, which would have been disastrous to use.
The machine is also super easy to clean. Since the espresso and lungo shots are made from the Nespresso capsules, all you need to do is remove the used pods from the chamber.
Nespresso also offers a recycling plan where you can return the used pods to them instead of throwing them away.
Descaling the machine is also conveniently a quick process and is only required once a year. However, you’ll still need to run water through the machine after every use to clean any residue. The device conserves electricity with its auto-off feature.
There’s more!
This box comes with an add-on, the Aeroccino Milk Frother which, when paired up with the pixie, is a brilliant device. To purchase Nespresso Pixie with the Aeroccino Milk Frother, click here.
Pros:
- It conserves energy.
- It’s compact.
- It’s programmable.
- It comes with 16 Nespresso Capsules.
- It’s made to conserve energy.
- It’s simple to use and clean.
Cons:
- It’s expensive.
- It requires a specific descaling kit for cleaning.
- It requires Nespresso Capsules specifically to make coffee.
Why Can’t We Stop Talking about It?
Nespresso Pixie is a small but pretty powerful device that brews beautifully and makes great espresso and lungo shots. It’s quite fast yet silent when it’s at work.
Portable and versatile- it’s a great choice to have at home or office, somewhere you have to spend a lot of time working.
Impressive Features of the Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker
Now we’re going to rant about the awesome features of this impressive device! Like we haven’t been.
High Quality:
The Nespresso Pixie, when paired up with the Nespresso pods, have a brilliant aroma and flavor. The pods are made of aluminum, which not only makes them recyclable but also preserved and elevates the taste of the coffee grounds.
The 19 bar high-pressure pump allows for an excellent brew which is used in coffeehouses and cafes. So you know you’re getting some high-quality espresso with the Pixie!
Fast:
Despite the fact that it’s a relatively small machine, it can’t be denied that its speed is quite admirable. The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is well known for its ability to brew coffee in seconds. Enjoy a great cup of espresso in the morning without the worry of being late!
Compact:
The Pixie really lives up to its name in terms of size!
It’s slim, so it’ll fit perfectly in corners, even with the water tank. It’s small in terms of height as well. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about it bumping into cabinet tops.
Easy to Use:
This model has been upgraded so there’s no separate on/off switch. Simply press either one of the two buttons on the top to have it running.
The lights indicate different modes according to the machine’s activities, for example when it’s blinking, it means the device is heating.
Programmable:
Though there are only two buttons, the Nespresso Pixie is still programmable. Set your own preferences by holding down one of the buttons until it’s brewed to your desired volume.
Next time you press that button, the device will remember and brew the amount you wanted. To reset to default settings, you only need to press down on the Lungo button for 5 seconds while the device is off.
Versatile:
Since the device is programmable, you’re not just limited to brewing espressos and lungos. Whip up some cream and brew some cappuccinos, mochas, and lattes!
Easy to Clean:
Cleaning the pods after each use only requires you to pull the lever.
The used pod drops into the chamber below which can hold up to 11 pods. Clean it out when it’s full, which could even be a week later depending on how much coffee you have!
It’s also important to run water through the machine after every use, so no residue remains for the last brew. Descaling is only needed once a year, and you can find a helpful Descaling kit which makes the job easier and faster!
Sleek Appearance:
The Nespresso Pixie Original Machine comes in a sophisticated design that blends well in all environments, be it home or a workplace. You can choose from black, matt black, titan, red, and chrome.
Ecologically Designed:
The device is built to conserve energy. The Pixie shuts off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity.
You can change this time to 30 mins or even completely off if you’re drinking coffee frequently, by following the instruction manual.
Nespresso also provides recycling bags in which you can send the used pods back to them through various methods. Their coffee is grown sustainably!
Add-Ons:
The Pixie comes with Nespresso Capsules to help you begin your journey with them. With an extra cost, you can also get the Aeroccino Milk Frother which froths milk for creamy hot drinks!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
We understand if you have questions regarding this product. Without the user manual, we’d be left confused too.
Is Nespresso A High-Quality Brand?
Because Nespresso, as a brand, has been around for more than 30 years, it’s not a surprise that their products are extremely popular. Their experience in the market has contributed to their expertise regarding everything related to coffee and the industry.
They are not just a B2C business. As in, they don’t only produce coffee machines for use at home. Their Aerolux line was made especially for airlines, and various other machines were specifically designed to serve businesses like hotels, restaurants, and offices.
Their pods are also distinctive in the sense that they are made of aluminum which makes the extraction more thorough. In addition to that, they’re also infinitely recyclable!
Which Pods Are Compatible With Nespresso Pixie?
Contrary to popular belief, you can use pods from competitor brands in the Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker. Nespresso had taken away their labels of warning against competitor pods in 2014, meaning almost all other pods are perfectly compatible with their machines.
The Nespresso Capsules themselves come with labels and flavors specifically for the brew you want, such as espresso, lungo, and decaf. However, you can choose to use other pods if you’re worried about the cost.
Instant pods from brands like Keurig, Starbucks, Lavazza, HiLine, etc. work pretty well with the Pixie, opening up possibilities for you to experiment with your preferences.
WayCap also offers refillable pods with various lid designs that result in different brews. They are also compatible with Nespresso Original Machines and can be filled with freshly ground or pre-ground coffee at home!
How Do You Turn On A Nespresso Pixie?
The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is powered by electricity outlets. The cable comes attached to the device. When you’re setting up the Pixie for the first time, adjust your cable so there’s no excess length on the way, making it a hazard.
Store the extra into the bottom of the machine. Next, plug it into our main outlet, and fit the cable into the cable guide, also under the machine. This will prevent the cable from getting damaged or torn.
Next, you simply need to press one of the buttons on top. The light around the rim will start blinking, to show that your espresso machine is heating up. When the light becomes steady, it’s ready to brew!
Is The Nespresso Pixie Worth It?
The Nespresso Pixie does not come cheap, but it is a great device to invest in if you’re a fan of high-quality espressos but do not have the patience to hand grind beans.
The Pixie is fast, efficient, easy to clean, and versatile.
It’s going to last a long time, serving you delicious coffee cup after cup. Its programmability comes in handy when you prefer to have customized cups as well.
So yes, we’d like to believe that the Nespresso Pixie Original Machine is definitely worth it!
How Do I Reset My Nespresso Pixie To Factory Settings?
As you know, the settings in the Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker can be programmed to your needs. However, you may choose to go back to its original settings.
With only two buttons on this device, we’d completely understand if you’re left scratching your head over the reset button.
The actual button is right in front of you!
Make sure your machine is off. Then long-press the Lungo button for 5 seconds, and you’re done!
Our Verdict
Now that you know all there is to know from this Nespresso Pixie review, what do you think?
We personally love this product, and it doesn’t hurt that the device is extremely stylish with its state-of-the-art design. It looks great on any counter and takes up as little space as possible for a coffee machine.
The Nespresso Pixie has survived 9 years in the market. It’s been remodeled with slight changes to make it more adaptable as time passed, maintaining or even upgrading its quality.
So, don’t hesitate if you’ve been thinking about getting this beauty, because it’s absolutely worth it!
