Espresso Machines That Take Nespresso Pods
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Nespresso made single-serve espresso easy: drop in a sealed aluminum capsule, press a button and get a shot with crema in under a minute. Its capsule format became so popular that other brands now build machines that take the same pods. That is exactly what most shoppers find when they search for pod espresso machines for Nespresso, and it is what this guide covers. To be upfront: the four machines below are made by CHULUX, CASABREWS, CUSIMAX and beanglass, not by Nespresso. They are built to use Nespresso Original pods.
The six products differ in one big way: four are third-party espresso machines that take Nespresso Original capsules, and two are genuine Nespresso Vertuo double espresso pod packs, which only work in Nespresso’s own Vertuo machines and will not fit any of the four machines here.
Nespresso Pod Espresso Machines Compared
| Product | Maker | Pod Type | Pump Pressure | Water Tank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHULUX RectoCafé Espresso Machine for Nespresso | CHULUX | Nespresso Original | 20 bar | Removable (size not listed) |
| CASABREWS CM7036E 20Bar Espresso Machine | CASABREWS | Nespresso Original | 20 bar | 21 oz |
| CUSIMAX Espresso Machine Compatible with Nespresso | CUSIMAX | Nespresso Original | 19 bar | 20 oz |
| Nespresso Vertuo Double Espresso Variety Pack | Nespresso | Vertuo pods (30) | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| beanglass Espresso Pod Machine for Home | beanglass | Nespresso Original | 20 bar | About 22 oz |
| Nespresso Vertuo Double Espresso Dolce | Nespresso | Vertuo pods (30) | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Original vs Vertuo Pods in Plain Words
Nespresso sells two capsule systems that are not interchangeable. Original capsules are the small, classic bell shape. They are made mostly for espresso and lungo shots, and many brands produce compatible pods. Vertuo capsules are larger and domed, with a barcode on the rim that Nespresso’s Vertuo machines read to set the brew. The Vertuo pack listing states clearly that Original capsules do not work in Vertuo machines, and the reverse is also true: the Vertuo pods here will not fit any Original-pod machine. If you are buying a gift, check which system the recipient owns before choosing pods.
A few more terms you will see. An espresso is a short, strong shot of about 1 to 1.2 oz. A lungo (“long” in Italian) runs more water through the same capsule for a bigger, milder cup. A ristretto is the opposite: a smaller, more concentrated shot. An Americano is espresso topped up with hot water. Crema is the golden foam on top of a fresh shot.
CHULUX RectoCafé Espresso Machine for Nespresso for Tiny Spaces
Chulux
CHULUX RectoCafé Espresso Machine for Nespresso Original Pod, Black
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
CHULUX RectoCafé Espresso Machine for Nespresso
Best for: Tiny kitchens, dorms and offices
Pros
- Only 3.3 inches wide
- 20-bar pump, 40-second preheat
- Used capsules drop automatically
Cons
- Third-party, not made by Nespresso
- Brew size options not detailed
The CHULUX RectoCafé Espresso Machine for Nespresso Original pods is the slimmest machine here at just 3.3 inches wide, with a solid 5-pound build. Despite the size, it has a 20-bar pump and 1200W heating that preheats in 40 seconds and brews espresso or lungo in 25 to 50 seconds. An NTC temperature sensor keeps water in a steady range.
When you open the lid after brewing, the used capsule drops into a collection bin. It shuts off after 5 minutes of inactivity and has a descaling program. The listing says every part the water touches, from reservoir to brew chamber, is food-safe and BPA-free. It lists uses including espresso, lungo, ristretto, Americano and hot water, but it does not detail how many size buttons it has.
This suits a dorm room, small apartment or office desk. If you want clearly labeled size choices, the CASABREWS offers four.
CASABREWS CM7036E 20Bar Espresso Machine for Brew Size Choices
Casabrews
CASABREWS CM7036E 20Bar Espresso Machine for Nespresso Original Pods
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
CASABREWS CM7036E 20Bar Espresso Machine
Best for: Coffee drinkers who like choices
Pros
- Four brew sizes incl. Americano
- 21 oz tank, 8-capsule bin
- Descaling reminders
Cons
- Third-party, not made by Nespresso
- Original pods only
The CASABREWS CM7036E 20Bar Espresso Machine works only with Nespresso Original capsules. It offers four sizes: ristretto (0.9 oz), espresso (1.2 oz), lungo (3.9 oz) and Americano (5.3 oz). A 20-bar pump delivers espresso with crema in about 25 seconds.
At 3.9 inches wide, it is still very slim. The 21 oz removable water tank brews up to 12 cups, and the used-capsule bin holds 8 pods. An adjustable cup support reduces splashing, the drip tray removes for cleaning, and descaling reminders help prevent clogs. It turns off after 15 minutes. It is made of plastic and rated at 1050W.
This suits a household where one person wants a short espresso and another wants a longer Americano. The listing also pitches it as a wedding or holiday gift. For a sturdier metal body, the CUSIMAX is the alternative.
CUSIMAX Espresso Machine Compatible with Nespresso for Latte Lovers
Cusimax
CUSIMAX Espresso Machine Compatible with Nespresso Original Pods
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
CUSIMAX Espresso Machine Compatible with Nespresso
Best for: Latte makers who want steel build
Pros
- Stainless steel body
- Heats in 20 seconds
- Programmable shot volume
Cons
- Third-party, not made by Nespresso
- No milk frother included
The CUSIMAX Espresso Machine Compatible with Nespresso Original pods has a full stainless steel body and works with Original capsules from Nespresso and other brands. It uses a 19-bar pump and a 1450W boiler that heats up in about 20 seconds, the fastest listed here.
Three buttons keep it simple: power, short espresso and lungo. Hold a button to brew a custom volume (15 to 90 seconds) and the machine remembers it next time. The 20 oz tank is removable, it enters energy-saving mode after 15 minutes and CUSIMAX lists 18 months of after-sales service. The listing suggests using the shots for lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos, but it does not include a milk frother, so you would need one separately.
This suits someone who wants a durable machine and likes to tailor shot size. For milk drinks, see our guide to pod machines with a milk frother.
Nespresso Vertuo Double Espresso Variety Pack for Vertuo Owners
Best for: Vertuo owners who like it mild
Pros
- 30 pods of one blend
- Smooth, malty flavor notes
Cons
- Vertuo only, not for these machines
- Single flavor in the box
Nespresso
Nespresso Vertuo, Double Espresso Variety Pack, Mixed Roast, 30-Count Pods
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
Nespresso Vertuo
Best for: Vertuo owners trying three strengths
Pros
- 30 pods, three blends
- Intensity 5, 8 and 11
- 7 fl oz double shot
Cons
- Vertuo only, not for these machines
The Nespresso Vertuo Double Espresso Variety Pack is a box of 30 genuine Nespresso Vertuo pods, not a machine. It includes 10 Double Espresso Scuro (intensity 11), 10 Double Espresso Chiaro (intensity 8) and 10 Double Espresso Dolce (intensity 5). Each pod makes a 2.7 fl oz double espresso, twice the coffee of a single shot.
Intensity is Nespresso’s scale for how bold and roasted a coffee tastes; higher numbers are stronger and darker. A mixed pack like this is a smart way to discover which strength someone prefers before buying a full box of one blend. These pods only work in Nespresso Vertuo machines. They do not fit any of the four Original-pod machines above. The pack weighs about 1.23 pounds.
This makes a good gift for someone who already owns a Vertuo machine and wants to taste a range of strengths.
beanglass Espresso Pod Machine for Home for Simple Espresso and Lungo
Best for: Simple espresso and lungo at home
Pros
- 20-bar pump, 1350W
- 22 oz removable tank
- Holds 9 to 11 used pods
Cons
- Third-party, not made by Nespresso
- Two cup sizes only
The beanglass Espresso Pod Machine for Home takes Nespresso Original-line capsules and uses a 20-bar pump with 1350W of power. It offers two programmable sizes, espresso (about 35ml) and lungo (about 65ml), with personalized volume settings and an adjustable cup tray.
The water tank (about 22 oz), drip tray and used-pod container (holding 9 to 11 pods) all remove for cleaning. It weighs about 2.6 kg (roughly 5.7 lbs), measures 13 by 4.5 by 8.6 inches, comes in white and turns off after 30 minutes. The brand field shows a store name while the specs list beanglass.
This suits a beginner who wants straightforward espresso and lungo with a large tank. For more size choices, the CASABREWS is broader. Our single-serve pod coffee maker guide covers more machines.
Nespresso Vertuo Double Espresso Dolce for Mild Coffee Fans
The Nespresso Vertuo Double Espresso Dolce pack holds 30 Vertuo pods of a single mild roast. Nespresso describes a blend of Latin American Arabicas with malty, toasted cereal notes, softened by Ugandan Robusta for a smooth, sweet cup. It is split roasted, meaning different beans are roasted separately before blending.
As with the variety pack, these pods need a Vertuo machine and will not work in the four Original-pod machines above.
This suits Vertuo owners who already know they prefer a gentle double espresso, perhaps after trying the Dolce in the variety pack.
How to Choose the Right Nespresso Pod Machine
Know your pods. The four machines here take Original capsules. The two Vertuo pod packs need a Vertuo machine. Never buy pods as a gift without checking which system the person owns.
Size options. The CASABREWS has four preset sizes; the CUSIMAX and beanglass let you program volumes to your taste.
Space. The CHULUX is 3.3 inches wide and the CASABREWS 3.9 inches, both ideal for crowded counters.
Build. The CUSIMAX has a stainless steel body; the CASABREWS is plastic.
FAQ
Are these machines made by Nespresso?
No. They are made by CHULUX, CASABREWS, CUSIMAX and beanglass and designed for Nespresso Original pods.
Can I use Vertuo pods in these machines?
No. Vertuo pods need a Vertuo machine.
What is the difference between Original and Vertuo?
Original capsules are smaller and suited to espresso shots. Vertuo capsules are larger with a barcode the Vertuo machine reads.
What does 20 bar mean?
It is the pump’s pressure rating. Espresso needs high pressure to push water through tightly packed coffee.
Which machine heats fastest?
The CUSIMAX lists about 20 seconds; the CHULUX preheats in 40 seconds.
Which pod machine should I buy?
Tiny spaces: CHULUX. Most size choices: CASABREWS. Metal build: CUSIMAX. Simple use: beanglass.
Related reading: hanrose espresso machine.
