When the Nespresso Inissia launched years ago, it quickly became a fan favorite. Compact, colorful, and affordable, it was the “starter” Nespresso machine for many coffee lovers. But with Nespresso expanding its lineup—Essenza Mini, Pixie, CitiZ, Vertuo Next, and more—the big question is:
In this Nespresso Inissia Review, we’ll dig into what makes this legacy machine tick, how it stacks up to newer models, and whether it’s still worth grabbing in today’s crowded coffee gadget lineup.
Let’s dive into the details.
What Is the Nespresso Inissia, Anyway?
So, what’s the deal with this machine that’s been hanging around in kitchens since basically the dawn of Nespresso time? The Inissia is what you call a “legacy model” in the Nespresso world, a tried-and-true single-serve espresso machine that’s compact, lightweight, and kind of adorable (in a home appliance sort of way).
It’s got just two buttons (Espresso and Lungo), heats up in about 25 seconds, and works with all the classic Nespresso OriginalLine pods. If you don’t want a machine that talks to your phone, sings to your cat, or costs half a month’s rent, this one still makes a strong case for itself.
Design & Build Quality
The Inissia is all about simplicity and accessibility.
- Compact size – One of the smallest OriginalLine machines. Perfect for apartments, dorms, or offices.
- Plastic build – Lightweight but less premium than the Pixie or CitiZ.
- Pop of color – Originally available in bright reds, blues, and creams, it stood out compared to Nespresso’s more serious stainless designs.
It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done.
Ease of Use
This is where the Inissia shines.
- Two buttons only – Espresso (1.35 oz) and Lungo (3.7 oz). No confusion.
- 30-second heat-up – Faster than some newer models.
- 19-bar pump – Same pressure as other OriginalLine machines.
If you want push-button espresso without fuss, it’s still a great pick.
Coffee Quality
Since it’s an OriginalLine machine, the Inissia delivers:
- Authentic espresso with pump-driven extraction.
- Thick crema (though slightly less dense than in higher-end models).
- Full compatibility with third-party capsules (unlike Vertuo).
Taste-wise, it holds its own against current entry-level models like the Essenza Mini.
Downsides
Here’s where the legacy status shows:
- Discontinued in many markets – Harder to find new. Usually only available refurbished or through resale.
- Plastic-heavy design – Feels cheaper compared to Pixie or CitiZ.
- Louder pump – Noticeably noisier than Essenza Mini.
- No extra features – No Aeroccino included (unless bundled), no Bluetooth, no extras.
Value Today
On the secondhand market, the Inissia often sells for $80–$120. At that price, it can still be worth it—but only if you don’t mind buying a discontinued model.
If you want the modern replacement, the Essenza Mini is the direct successor—smaller footprint, quieter, same espresso quality.
Who Should Buy the Inissia (in 2025)?
✅ Budget hunters finding it at a bargain
✅ Students or small-space dwellers
✅ Espresso lovers who don’t care about fancy features
✅ People who want third-party pod compatibility
Skip it if:
• You want a new machine with warranty
• You prefer sleeker build quality (Pixie/CitiZ feel better)
• You like extra features like milk frothers or app connectivity
Final Verdict
The Nespresso Inissia is a legacy machine that still makes excellent espresso, but it’s largely been replaced by the Essenza Mini. If you find one cheap and working, it’s still a solid buy—but for most people, the newer entry-level options are a smarter investment.
Think of the Inissia as a classic starter espresso maker—reliable, no-frills, but best for bargain hunters today.
Disclosure: Our blog contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced in order to help you make the best choice for you.
