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Nespresso Pixie vs. Nespresso Citiz
The Pixie and CitiZ C-122 are a close match-up when looking at the top-rated pod-based espresso machines.
At a glance, these two Nespresso models may seem almost identical in style and functionality, and when doing a once over the product specs it can be really tough to find what sets them apart.
There are a few key differences that are worth understanding before pulling the trigger and making the final purchase. This article will help you understand what separates the two models so you can make an informed pick.
The Final Shot: The CitiZ is the clear victor in this match-up. The integrated Aerocinno frother and larger water tank are the two key features that set it apart. The Pixie is slightly easier on the wallet, but with the addition of a separate frothing pitcher, the difference is minimal..
I recently purchased a CitiZ for my office because I missed not having access to my Breville Barista Express in the afternoon. I’m a total Nespresso convert now and I’ll explain what I based my decision on a little further on in the article!
Contents
Nespresso Citiz vs. Nespresso Pixie Head to Head
 |  |
|
|---|---|---|
| Name | Nespresso Pixie | Nespresso Citiz |
 Color Options | electric titan, carmine or steel | red, black, white or chrome |
 Size (L x W x H) | 12.8 x 4.3 x 9.2 in | 14.7 x 8.6 x 10.8 in |
 Weight | 6 pounds | 8.9 pounds |
 Pump Pressure | 19 bar | 19 bar |
 Milk Frother | No | Yes |
 Water Tank Size | 24 ounce | 34 ounce |
 Capsule Storage | 10 | 11 |
Similarities
The Pixie and Citiz offer comparable features representative of the well-known and established Nespresso brand. I didn’t realize this until recently, but while the pod-based machines Nespresso has seen such recent popularity with are pretty new to the scene, Nespresso has been in the coffee business for over 30 years
Both the Nespresso Pixie and Nespresso Citiz offer 19-bar pressure with maximum flavor extraction that delivers professional quality espresso. They feature a single boiler and are quick to heat up to the optimal brewing temperature, about 25 seconds total.
The Pixie and CitiZ are categorized as super-automatic machines, which means the entire grinding and extraction process is as hands-off as it gets. There’s no tamping of beans, selecting grind coarseness or any involvement in brewing other than inserting the pod and pressing a button.
A compact, lightweight design is featured in both the Pixie and Citiz, making them ideal for those who are limited on counter space. They are especially popular in office and college dorm settings.
A removable drip tray is another feature in both models that make them easy to clean.
The one-touch buttons on the machines make it simple and intuitive to program the brew volume and the user can select either Espresso or Lungo for both.
The Pixie and CitiZ also boast a 25 second heat time, which is ridiculously and wonderfully fast.
I like the simplicity of a Nespresso capsule, because it saves you from dosing and tamping, but without sacrificing the great flavor of espresso. This is something I really appreciate at work or when I’m in a time crunch.
The capsules are incredibly simple to use in comparison with the multiple steps involved in brewing freshly ground espresso and are really great for hands-off home baristas who prefer speed to being involved in the process.
Both models come with a 1 year limited warranty that covers workmanship and product defects.
Shared Features:
- 19-bar pressure
- Single boiler
- 25 second heat time
- Compact + lightweight
- Espresso and lungo functions
- Easy loading of Nespresso capsules
- Access to Nespresso Club Services
- Compartment for used capsules
- 1 year limited warranty
Differences
Color Selection
The Pixie comes in either electric titan, carmine or steel color options on Amazon, while the CitiZ is offered in red, black, white and chrome.
If you are looking to match the espresso machine to the color of your kitchen decor or other appliances, the CitiZ does have brighter and shinier options. The Pixie colors are more muted, but definitely good looking.
This is a smaller consideration, but I get that aesthetics factor into these decisions too, especially when most other factors are equal.
Machine Size + Weight
The Nespresso CitiZ is 14.7 x 10.8 x 8.6 inches, while the Pixie measures slightly smaller at 12.8 x 9.3 x 4.4 inches. Overall, the Citiz is 2 inches taller and 1.5 inches wider. I like how the Pixie is a more compact Nespresso machine but delivers the same quality of Grand Cru blend espresso capsules.
This is a pretty negligible point of comparison because the size difference is so small, but if you are working with a limited amount of space, this might factor into your decision-making.
Milk Frother Option
The most notable difference between the machines is that the CitiZ comes with the Aerocinno milk frothing pitcher integrated into the casing, while the Pixie does not.
If you want this option with the Pixie, you will need to purchase separately or as a bundle deal, just keep in mind, it won’t have the convenient holster that the CitiZ comes with. If you are cappuccino or latte lover, this is a critical feature for your espresso set-up.
The Nespresso CitiZ features a side-mounted Aeroccino milk frother that is designed to be easy to use and effortless to clean. With the Aeroccino, because it attaches separately as its own unit, you can prepare your espresso shot at the same time you are frothing the milk for a cappuccino.
I prefer purchasing a model with the frother included, and if you aren’t interested in having lattes or capps, you can still purchase the CitiZ D112 model without it.
Water Tank Size
The CitiZ offers a 34 ounce removable water tank while the Pixie only has a 24 ounce capacity tank. You’d be surprised how much more espresso you can pull with an extra 10 ounces.
If you’ve read my other articles, you know I really don’t like refilling the water reservoir, so for me, the CitiZ is a much better pick thanks to the higher capacity.
For those who are less frequent users, either machine will last for multiple brews before the water needs to be refilled. The neat part about the water tank on the Pixie is that the backlit LED indicators show you how much water is left in the tank.
Capsule Loading
While both espresso machines make it easy to insert and remove Nespresso capsules, the CitiZ makes it slightly easier to drop the capsule into the slot without any moving parts. The Pixie requires you to lift the handle in order to insert or remove the capsules.
The difference isn’t a big one, with the Nespresso Pixie, the lever simply lifts up and pushes the brew head forward to expose the slot. Having to move the lever doesn’t have a significant impact on the user experience, but it’s worth noting.
For used capsules, the Pixie holds 10, while the CitiZ holds 11 – another slight variation that would only make a difference to frequent and especially picky users.
Summary
In comparing the Nespresso Pixie to the CitiZ, the Pixie, while more affordable and just a bit slimmer, falls short on a few key features.
Both models do offer the 19 bar high-pressure pump, have a 25 second heat time, use Nespresso pods and allow you to customize the volume for barista-quality results, but the Pixie lacks the integrated milk frother and has that smaller water tank capacity.
It is worth noting that both machines are top contenders for best selling espresso machines on Amazon. The Pixie ranks at #3 in the Super-Automatic Espresso Machines category on Amazon while the newer CitiZ ranks at #4 in the Espresso Machines category.
While your decision will be based on your individual needs, I’m a big fan of the CitiZ and my decision was really made by the frothing integration and the water reservoir size. I also appreciated the slightly sleeker looking design.
Questions? Leave a comment below!
Chatting about coffee is my passion! Leave me a question in the comments, I answer each and every one and would love to get to know you better.
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About the Author Michael York
I am a die-hard espresso fan. I love every form of the drink from straight espresso shots to lattes and cappuccinos. I currently use a Breville BES870XL Barista, it is an awesome machine. BUT, my dream machine is definitely an Italian Quickmill Andreja. Those bad boys make badass espresso. I love answering your questions, leave a comment or question below!
