Explore the Nespresso Citiz EN167B Review: Is This the Best Espresso Machine?

Description

Brewing Performance

Using the Nespresso CitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De’Longhi (Item model number: EN167B) has been a transformative experience for my mornings. The 19-bar pressure pump ensures every espresso shot is rich, aromatic, and full-bodied, extracting the maximum flavor from the coffee capsules. I particularly love how quickly this machine heats up—just 25 seconds, and it’s ready to go. It’s especially helpful on groggy mornings when every second counts. While testing, I tried both the espresso (1.35 oz) and lungo (5 oz) settings, and they consistently produced delicious results. The automatic volume control makes the brewing process foolproof, even for someone like my roommate, who’s notorious for overfilling cups. However, I did notice that the espresso could be slightly hotter right after brewing, which might be a drawback for those who prefer piping hot coffee.

Design & Build Quality

The sleek black finish of the CitiZ machine caught my eye immediately. It’s compact yet elegant, fitting nicely on my already crowded kitchen counter. Measuring just 14.6 x 5.1 x 10.9 inches, it feels like a premium addition to my kitchen without overwhelming the space. The plastic exterior, while not overly luxurious, feels robust and durable. I appreciate the folding cup shelf that accommodates my taller travel mugs, a lifesaver when I’m rushing out the door. On the downside, the power cord is unusually thick and not very flexible, which makes positioning the machine a bit of a hassle.

Coffee Quality

The coffee produced by this machine is nothing short of stellar. Each shot is smooth, with a velvety crema that rivals what you’d get at a fancy coffee shop. I tested a variety of Nespresso’s Original Line capsules, and the machine handled them all with ease. My sister, who’s a coffee snob, even gave her seal of approval after tasting a lungo I made for her. That said, I wish there was a way to fine-tune the temperature settings, as some capsules seemed to benefit from slightly hotter water.

Water Tank & Capacity

The removable water tank holds enough for about six espressos or three lungos before needing a refill. While this is sufficient for my single-person household, it might be limiting for larger families or when entertaining guests. Refilling the tank is straightforward, but the lack of a low-water indicator means you have to keep an eye on it yourself, which led to a few surprise interruptions during brewing sessions.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning the CitiZ is surprisingly easy. The used capsule container holds up to 10 spent capsules, so you’re not constantly emptying it. Descaling the machine is a breeze with Nespresso’s recommended products, though the process does take some time. I’ve found that wiping down the exterior and rinsing the removable parts after each use keeps everything looking sleek and functioning well. My only gripe is that you can’t throw the components into the dishwasher, which would have been a nice touch.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

This particular model doesn’t include a built-in milk frother, but I paired it with the Aeroccino frother I already owned. The combination is a game-changer for making lattes and cappuccinos. The Aeroccino produces consistently creamy froth, both hot and cold, in under a minute. My coworker is obsessed with the iced lattes I make for her using this setup. If you’re someone who enjoys milk-based drinks, investing in a separate frother is worth it.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

One of my favorite features is the automatic power-off function, which kicks in after nine minutes of inactivity. It’s reassuring to know that I’m not wasting energy if I forget to turn it off. The machine operates quietly, too. Even on busy mornings when the household is buzzing, the CitiZ doesn’t contribute to the chaos with loud brewing noises.

Warranty & Support

The CitiZ comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, which provides some peace of mind. However, I’ve read mixed reviews about Nespresso’s customer service. While I haven’t had to reach out myself, a friend in India mentioned difficulties getting support for her machine. This is something to consider if you’re in a region where Nespresso’s presence isn’t as strong.

Positives

Key Benefits:

• Compact and stylish design fits well in small spaces.
• User-friendly and heats up in just 25 seconds.
• Delivers consistent, high-quality espresso with rich crema.
• Energy-saving automatic shutoff feature.

Negatives

Drawbacks:

• Lacks a low-water indicator, which can cause brewing interruptions.
• Coffee temperature might not be hot enough for some preferences.
• The power cord is thick and not very flexible, making placement tricky.

Product Comparisons

Looking at similar options, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a bit more flexibility for espresso enthusiasts who want manual control, but it takes up more counter space and requires a steeper learning curve. Meanwhile, Keurig’s K-Café provides a broader beverage range, including drip coffee, but doesn’t match the CitiZ in crema quality or compactness. If you’re focused on espresso and want a machine that’s straightforward and stylish, the CitiZ is a strong contender.

Quality for Price

In terms of Quality for Price, the CitiZ strikes a great balance. It doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but it delivers reliable performance and excellent coffee quality. Considering the lower cost of Original Line capsules compared to VertuoLine, this machine is a smart investment for coffee lovers who value convenience and taste without breaking the bank.

Additional information