Overview
The Nespresso Original Plus refreshes the classic Original line capsule machine with modern design touches and improved energy efficiency. The ultra-compact form factor at just 120mm wide makes it the slimmest Nespresso machine in the current lineup, fitting anywhere from tiny studio kitchens to office desks. The 19-bar pressure system extracts flavor from Original line capsules with the thick crema Nespresso is known for. Two programmable cup sizes — espresso and lungo — can be customized by holding the button to your preferred volume. Eco-mode automatically enters low-power standby after two minutes of inactivity, reducing energy consumption by up to 50 percent compared to older models. Heat-up time under 25 seconds keeps the morning routine swift. The rear-loading 1-liter reservoir slides out for easy refilling. While lacking a milk solution — neither steam wand nor frother — the Original Plus excels as a dedicated espresso machine for black coffee drinkers who value compact design, operational simplicity, and Nespresso's extensive capsule variety.
It features a thermoblock boiler system made of plastic. The vibratory pump delivers 19.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction. It uses a Nespresso Original group head.
Priced at $179, the Nespresso Original Plus is designed for budget-conscious beginners and casual coffee drinkers. As a pod/capsule machine, it prioritizes convenience and consistency, delivering quality espresso with minimal effort.
In terms of build quality, the Nespresso Original Plus is a substantial machine, weighing in at 3.0 kg, manufactured in Switzerland, drawing 1260W of power. With dimensions of 120 x 330 x 260 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1000 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Manufactured in Switzerland, known for quality espresso machine engineering
- Well-regarded in the home espresso community for its reliability in its price bracket
Cons
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
Full Specifications
| Brand | Nespresso |
|---|---|
| Model | Nespresso Original Plus |
| Category | Pod/Capsule |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Switzerland |
| Year Introduced | 2024 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Plastic |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 19.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Nespresso Original |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1000 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 120 x 330 x 260 mm |
| Weight | 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1260 W |
| Voltage | 120V |
| MSRP | $179 |
Our Verdict
The Nespresso Original Plus delivers maximum convenience — pop in a pod and press a button. The trade-off is less control over grind size, dose, and freshness compared to machines using freshly ground coffee. If consistency and speed are your priorities, it's a practical choice. Espresso purists will want to look elsewhere, but for busy mornings and office use, pod machines have a legitimate place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nespresso Original Plus good for beginners?
The Nespresso Original Plus is a solid entry point for beginners at $179. It's affordable enough to learn on without a major financial commitment. Pair it with a capable grinder and you'll be making genuine espresso quickly.
How often does the Nespresso Original Plus need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I pair with the Nespresso Original Plus?
At this price point, budget at least as much for a grinder as the machine itself. Popular choices include the Eureka Mignon series ($200-$400), Baratza Sette 270 ($300-$400), or a hand grinder like the 1Zpresso JX Pro ($160) for excellent grind quality on a budget.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Nespresso Original Plus
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level:
