Nespresso U Review

Nespresso has two lines of capsule-based espresso machines:

• OriginalLine: Their original line (duh) that used a 19 bar pump to extract shots from capsules
• VertuoLine: Their new line that uses Centrifusion (rapid capsule spinning) to extract shots from barcode-enabled capsules but also brews standard coffee up to 17 oz

For our money, OriginalLine machines are better than VertuoLine machines because their pump produces more authentic espresso, the coffee tends to be hotter, and there's no barcode scanning system meaning you can find less-expensive third-party capsules.

The Nespresso U's claim to fame is rather simple: It's Nespresso's smallest machine featuring a short 0.85 oz ristretto shot.

Aside from that, it has the same features as most other mid-range Nespresso OriginalLine machines:

• Modest reservoir size (27 oz)
• No standard coffee functionality (check out VertuoLine models for that)

Of note, there are two other Nespresso U brewers that offer expanded features/functionality.

• UMilk: The same machine as this Nespresso U but including an attached Aeroccino frother (similar to the CitiZ and CitiZ & Milk)
• UMat: The same machine as this Nespresso U but with a matte black exterior.

Note: We won't review these brewers on The Coffee Maven because they're nearly impossible to find these days.

If you'd like to brew specialty beverages (like cappuccinos and lattes), you could always upgrade to the bundle or purchase the Aeroccino4 milk frother separately for your own home barista setup.