Help me buy a Nespresso machine for wife (1 Viewer)

[Payne]

I am not a coffee drinker. My wife likes to make Espresso drinks with chocolate syrup.

She currently does this with a Tassimo and she is finding it harder to find the pods for it.

Figured this would be a great Christmas idea. I was looking at the Nespresso by Breville machines. But am a little overwhelmed.

Suggestions or avoids?? Thanks

 

[Koya]

Would she prefer straight forward coffee / espresso or a more "creamy" type of brew (talking texture not actual milk)?

Nespresso has two main lines. Vertuo is their newer one and has a more creamy texture while the original line is straight forward espresso and also has options for straight up coffee, more European style I suppose. Both can do espresso and various cappuccino options as well... if you go to Bloomingdales (if one is in your area) or have a nesoresso store (some located in major markets) you can sample.

Ive been a big Nespresso fan for years, still prefer the original line. Very good espresso, excellent cappuccino and similar drinks and I prefer the coffee options (called "Luongo" - makes a European size coffee, more than a shot but more like 6 or so ounces not 10 like some American coffees or Kuerigs). 

I have the Latissimo which is a mid priced options around $400 - it's served me very well for probably 5 years and I had the pixie or whatever the basic was with a separate milk frother before that. Much prefer the Latissimo. 

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

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Subscribing here. 

GF has a Tassimo that is on it's last leg as well as only being able to find pods through Amazon. She'll be loathe to give up on the ol reliable Tassimo (been serving us coffee daily for half a decade I think), but at some point there will need to be a shift. 

Are there a Keurig device similar to the Tassimo? That does a decent Cappuccino? I'm aware neither are on par with a Nespresso, but wanted to check on all options. 
 

 

[Koya]

Subscribing here. 

GF has a Tassimo that is on it's last leg as well as only being able to find pods through Amazon. She'll be loathe to give up on the ol reliable Tassimo (been serving us coffee daily for half a decade I think), but at some point there will need to be a shift. 

Are there a Keurig device similar to the Tassimo? That does a decent Cappuccino? I'm aware neither are on par with a Nespresso, but wanted to check on all options. 
 

Any reason you would go Keurig if you believe (and I agree) that Nespresso is better quality? If it's cost, you can get Nespresso machines as low as $100, and I think $150 with a frother.  For $250 you get a pretty kick ### overall machine. 

Obviously K-Cups give a greater range of options and are nearly ubiquitous at this point, but its easy enough to get Nespresso's online if you don't have a store nearby.  In fact, their customer service has been about as good as I've experienced with any company and when I do order online, they are usually there next day, day after the latest.

 

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Any reason you would go Keurig if you believe (and I agree) that Nespresso is better quality? If it's cost, you can get Nespresso machines as low as $100, and I think $150 with a frother.  For $250 you get a pretty kick ### overall machine. 

Obviously K-Cups give a greater range of options and are nearly ubiquitous at this point, but its easy enough to get Nespresso's online if you don't have a store nearby.  In fact, their customer service has been about as good as I've experienced with any company and when I do order online, they are usually there next day, day after the latest.

That is great to hear that it doesn't require $400+ to get into a Nespresso. They seem known for producing the best single serve coffee/espresso/cappucino in this category. 

Honestly the only reason I was considering Keurig was ongoing cost/availability of cups, as the GF usually supplies herself with those as she does 95% of the coffee drinking in the house. Takes some shine off the gift if she ends up having to double her monthly coffee pod budget . With Amazon subscribe and save, or other options...is it comparable-ish to tassimo or keurig? I honestly don't know. I could look but I figure you guys know better off the top of your head. 

Thanks for the Help! Hope I'm not hijacking too bad, @Payne  

 

 

[Koya]

That is great to hear that it doesn't require $400+ to get into a Nespresso. They seem known for producing the best single serve coffee/espresso/cappucino in this category. 

Honestly the only reason I was considering Keurig was ongoing cost/availability of cups, as the GF usually supplies herself with those as she does 95% of the coffee drinking in the house. Takes some shine off the gift if she ends up having to double her monthly coffee pod budget . With Amazon subscribe and save, or other options...is it comparable-ish to tassimo or keurig? I honestly don't know. I could look but I figure you guys know better off the top of your head. 

Thanks for the Help! Hope I'm not hijacking too bad, @Payne  

 

Check out Nespresso's site (it also has all the machines - and it's a good site overall).  In addition to the those listed, they always have some selection of "limited edition" for both espresso and luongo.  Pods are $0.70-0.80, and figure you may do nearly as many double espressos as singles (again, not getting a 10 or 12 ounce pour here).

Obviously you don't have the range of choices in terms of brand, flavors and the like, but I would never go back to K-cups if I had to choose one or the other.  And I drink more Luongo (only "5" choices all the time plus limited editions - though there are some decent off brands making nespresso compatible) than espresso/cappuccino.  

I will say this, making an awesome latte or cappuccino with the one I have (automatically goes into the mug/glass, the separate frother makes it a little more cumbersome) is so freakin' easy, and basically perfect every time.  While the hot hired help is out entertaining our guests and setting up threesomes for us later, you can look the hero pumping out made to order cappuccino's.  

Makes awesome iced lattees as well (I just use the strong shots and poor like 3 of them and a luongo over ice).

 

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Check out Nespresso's site (it also has all the machines - and it's a good site overall).  In addition to the those listed, they always have some selection of "limited edition" for both espresso and luongo.  Pods are $0.70-0.80, and figure you may do nearly as many double espressos as singles (again, not getting a 10 or 12 ounce pour here).

Obviously you don't have the range of choices in terms of brand, flavors and the like, but I would never go back to K-cups if I had to choose one or the other.  And I drink more Luongo (only "5" choices all the time plus limited editions - though there are some decent off brands making nespresso compatible) than espresso/cappuccino.  

I will say this, making an awesome latte or cappuccino with the one I have (automatically goes into the mug/glass, the separate frother makes it a little more cumbersome) is so freakin' easy, and basically perfect every time.  While the hot hired help is out entertaining our guests and setting up threesomes for us later, you can look the hero pumping out made to order cappuccino's.  

Makes awesome iced lattees as well (I just use the strong shots and poor like 3 of them and a luongo over ice).

Awesome info. Thanks GB! 

 

[Koya]

Awesome info. Thanks GB! 

Sure thing my man.  Needless to say, I was an early adopter (like 8, 10 years ago? more? no idea how I even saw it, probably bloomingdales or their spot in the East Village/LES?) and avid proponent.

Apparently in a number of European countries Nespresso is as ubiquitious as Keurigs are here.  

IMO, perfect scenario is one of the Nespresso's with the built in frother (worth the extra hundred or even 150 if thats the case, think they are 350-400).  Then get a cheap single serve Keurig as well for the flavors and such that are still good.  Just, imo, not worth crappy coffee the rest of the time. And whoa boy, the cappuccio's from Nespresso are so legit good, gonna make one in a few myself (need to get milk).

 

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Sure thing my man.  Needless to say, I was an early adopter (like 8 years ago? more? no idea how I even saw it, probably bloomingdales or their spot in the East Village/LES?) and avid proponent.

Apparently in a number of European countries Nespresso is as ubiquitious as Keurigs are here.  

IMO, perfect scenario is one of the Nespresso's with the built in frother (worth the extra hundred or even 150 if thats the case, think they are 350-400).  Then get a cheap single serve Keurig as well for the flavors and such that are still good.  Just, imo, not worth crappy coffee the rest of the time. And whoa boy, the cappuccio's from Nespresso are so legit good, gonna make one in a few myself (need to get milk).

Sounds good! 

Yeah we're not big on weird flavors or anything. 90% of the time it's just basic good coffee... with a nice Cappucino mixed in here and there (tassimo does a passible job). If we had a good espresso machine I'd likely take advantage.. just haven't loved the expresso pods from Tassimo. 

How is machine longevity? ____ Years with daily use? 

 

[Koya]

Sounds good! 

Yeah we're not big on weird flavors or anything. 90% of the time it's just basic good coffee... with a nice Cappucino mixed in here and there (tassimo does a passible job). If we had a good espresso machine I'd likely take advantage.. just haven't loved the expresso pods from Tassimo. 

How is machine longevity? ____ Years with daily use? 

Haven't had an issue with either machine.  I think we gave the old one away since there was no need for two and we were awash in cash with me making  s at the time. 

Current one is probably 4-5 years in use.  Not daily use, but closer to daily than not.  I think I need to do a descaling at this point, but that's all (and they have kits, one of which I have sitting right by the machine, been to lazy)

 

[fantasycurse42]

Bought my wife the Latissima Plus - they sell for $399, but wait until Black Friday, Nespresso always has sales, you'll prob be able to get it for 25% off. 

Machine is super easy to use and makes an excellent espresso or latte - I believe the pods work out to 75 cents or so each - well worth it if she wastes as much as wife in Starbucks. 

They also have sales once every other month or two and you can stock up on pods for even cheaper. 

 

[Koya]

Bought my wife the Latissima Plus - they sell for $399, but wait until Black Friday, Nespresso always has sales, you'll prob be able to get it for 25% off. 

Machine is super easy to use and makes an excellent espresso or latte - I believe the pods work out to 75 cents or so each - well worth it if she wastes as much as wife in Starbucks. 

They also have sales once every other month or two and you can stock up on pods for even cheaper. 

Pretty sure that's the model I have as well. I know that was the pricepoint. 

FWIW, I'm letting the soon to be ex-wife take most things we own.  I did draw a line in the sand at the Nespresso.  F that ####. 

 

[tommyboy]

We have an older saeco espresso machine we love. Here's the latest version https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/HD8645_47/xsmall-vapore-super-automatic-espresso-machine

Highly recommend

 

[rockaction]

Did somebody say Nespresso?? 

 

[Koya]

@Payne - Good news: 35% off machines at nespresso.com.  Can go separate frother and come in under $200, or get what seems like a great deal on the Latissma + (a couple of us own this one IIRC) for under $250.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

erches on leather couch:

 

[streamkeeper]

You got my attention.  I think my wife needs one of these.

I have been doing my research and for our house I think the Laitissma Pro is the way to go.  I have been on Amazon and the Nespresso site.  Nespresso is advertising %35 off on machines, but they are listing this unit for $385.  Amazon had it for $311 over the weekend.  That deal is no longer available.  So, I guess my question is what is a good price?

 

[Drunken knight]

i am very happy with my espresso machine (breville barista) but just checked BB&B for nespresso machines... very good prices. plus they always send out those 20% off one item coupons.  might help you all.

 

[Koya]

i am very happy with my espresso machine (breville barista) but just checked BB&B for nespresso machines... very good prices. plus they always send out those 20% off one item coupons.  might help you all.

They were not yet sold at BB&B when I got mine - believe it was Crate and Barrel. Now that the plebes have discovered better home coffee/espresso, BB&B with a 20% could be the way to go.

I believe prices were mentioned up the thread a bit, but I recall thinking the 35% off seemed pretty damned good. I'd check between that and what 20% off at BB&B would be and go with the better of the two. 

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

I have been doing my research and for our house I think the Laitissma Pro is the way to go.  I have been on Amazon and the Nespresso site.  Nespresso is advertising %35 off on machines, but they are listing this unit for $385.  Amazon had it for $311 over the weekend.  That deal is no longer available.  So, I guess my question is what is a good price?

Decided today on the same model after a bunch of back and forth.  I also saw the $311 dip on camelcamelcamel but I wonder if it was a flash sale or otherwise very short promotion. 

$385 (minus the 5% for my amazon order with my amazon/chase credit card -- ~$366) was the best price I could find anywhere today.

 

[Drunken knight]

They were not yet sold at BB&B when I got mine - believe it was Crate and Barrel. Now that the plebes have discovered better home coffee/espresso, BB&B with a 20% could be the way to go.

I believe prices were mentioned up the thread a bit, but I recall thinking the 35% off seemed pretty damned good. I'd check between that and what 20% off at BB&B would be and go with the better of the two.

yes.  

The prices on their site had some major reductions.  Just getting greedy to see if they might honor the 20% on top of the sales pricing.

 

[grateful zed]

coffee can size?

 

[Payne]

Ended up buying the Breville Inissia from BB&Beyond on Friday. $129.99 plus additional 20% off.

Shipped for $103.

Edit: Macy's had it in red for $99, but I wanted the Titanium.

 

[Koya]

Ended up buying the Breville Inissia from BB&Beyond on Friday. $129.99 plus additional 20% off.

Shipped for $103.

Edit: Macy's had it in red for $99, but I wanted the Titanium.

You will like. Super easy to use, doesn't take up much space. I had this as my second Nespresso at the office. Bought it and placed it next to the Keurig and all but converted over half my colleagues to Nespresso drinkers... 

Needless to say, the ease of a double shot of espresso at 2 or 4 PM was nice.

 

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Damn i missed black friday deals on these while travelling... 

 

[Payne]

Well her birthday was yesterday and the kids and I decided to give her this instead of waiting for Christmas.

Her text this morning was .... "OMG, so good!". So I assume that is a good thing.

 

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@Koya or others... any knowledge of these machines: 

Gourmia GCM5000 One Touch Multi Capsule Coffee Machine
Compatible With Nespresso, K-Cup Pods & More, Built In Milk Frothier, Adjustable Temperature & Size

Hard to find in reviews, but safe to assume that while it's compatible with nespresso pods, it may not make the same caliber of coffee? They claim 19 Bar of pressure for espresso...  

 

[Koya]

@Koya or others... any knowledge of these machines: 

Gourmia GCM5000 One Touch Multi Capsule Coffee Machine
Compatible With Nespresso, K-Cup Pods & More, Built In Milk Frothier, Adjustable Temperature & Size

Hard to find in reviews, but safe to assume that while it's compatible with nespresso pods, it may not make the same caliber of coffee? They claim 19 Bar of pressure for espresso...  

No clue my man. I mean, in terms of 'brewing' isn't the technology all pretty much the same? Get water hot, poke holes in coffee pod, drip water through? I do know some machines may not achieve the desired hotness though.

Frother is another story, but this set looks similar to the separates version, so not just press and voila, like the combo machines that make the easier capps

 

[James Daulton]

Just picked up the Nespresso Creatista.

Big fan.  Certainly beats my microwave hot water/ foldiers crystals coffee connections. 

 

[SWC]

sorry brohan the old swcer is a one lady man now look there are probably guys out there that will nespresso your wife but its gonna take a tole on your marriage and i would not recommend it take that to the bank bromigo 

 

[Payne]

After all the research I did, wife barely uses it. Ugh