The Breville Citiz and DeLonghi Citiz espresso machines are functionally identical on the inside - as they are both made using Nespresso technology - but they differ in their external design, materials, and price. Breville's version features a modern, sleek aesthetic with metal accents and a higher price tag, while DeLonghi's take is more compact with a classic, rounded Italian design and is typically more budget-friendly.
Here’s a detailed look at both options to help you decide which Nespresso Citiz deserves a spot on your countertop.
Breville Citiz Nespresso Machine
The Breville Citiz is positioned as the more premium of the two options, appealing to users who prioritize a contemporary look and feel for their kitchen appliances. Known for its high-quality construction and chic design, Breville's version blends minimalist aesthetics with the proven reliability of Nespresso's single-serve coffee system.
- What it is: A Nespresso OriginalLine capsule espresso machine manufactured by Breville, designed for quick espresso shots.
- Key features: Quick 25-second heat-up time, programmable buttons for Espresso and Lungo, 19-bar high-pressure pump, auto shut-off after 9 minutes.
- Price: Around $250 - $300, depending on the retailer.
- Style: Sleek and modern with clean lines, a slightly larger footprint, and distinctive metallic accents that feel premium.
- Materials/Construction: A durable plastic body complemented by metal components contribute to its sturdy, solid build.
- Pros: Excellent build quality that feels substantial and durable. The sleek, contemporary design looks great in modern kitchens. Intuitive and easy-to-use controls. Consistent Nespresso performance.
- Cons: Carries a higher price tag than its DeLonghi counterpart. Slightly larger footprint may not be ideal for very small kitchens.
The Breville Citiz is for the coffee drinker who values aesthetics and a premium feel just as much as a great-tasting espresso.
Shop this product: nespresso.com/breville-citiz
DeLonghi Citiz Nespresso Machine
The DeLonghi Citiz is all about packing reliable Nespresso performance into a compact, space-efficient, and budget-friendly package. Its design leans into a more classic, user-friendly Italian aesthetic, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of kitchen styles, especially those with limited counter real estate.
- What it is: A compact Nespresso OriginalLine capsule espresso machine built by DeLonghi.
- Key features: All the core Nespresso features, including a 19-bar pump, fast heat-up, and programmable buttons for different shot sizes, but in a smaller body.
- Price: Usually found between $200 - $250, making it a more affordable option.
- Dimensions: More compact design ideal for apartments, dorms, or smaller countertops.
- Style: Features DeLonghi's classic Italian design elements with softer, more rounded edges than the Breville model.
- Materials/Construction: Primarily made of high-quality plastic with some metal parts, resulting in a lightweight but reliable machine.
- Pros: More affordable price point. The compact, lightweight design saves valuable counter space. Straightforward, dependable operation. Heats up quickly.
- Cons: The plastic construction, while durable, can feel less premium compared to the Breville version. Its design is more functional than statement-making.
This machine is a great pick for users who need a space-saving, dependable espresso maker and prioritize value over premium finishes.
Shop this product: nespresso.com/delonghi-citiz
Breville Citiz vs. DeLonghi Citiz Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
The most noticeable physical difference between the two machines is their footprint. The DeLonghi Citiz is explicitly designed to be compact, measuring around 9 x 12 x 12 inches, making it a clear winner for anyone with a small kitchen, apartment, or shared office space. Its slim profile easily fits into tight corners.
Conversely, the Breville Citiz is slightly larger at approximately 12 x 9 x 12 inches. While not massive, this extra size gives it a more substantial presence on the counter and can accommodate a slightly larger water tank in certain models. If you have the space, the Breville's added heft makes it feel stable and planted.
Materials & Construction
Both machines are built to last with proper care, sharing the same warranty period. However, Breville typically uses more metal accents and a heavier-grade plastic that gives their Citiz a more premium and sturdy feel. This focus on higher-end materials contributes to its modern aesthetic and justifies part of its higher cost.
The DeLonghi Citiz is constructed primarily from durable plastic to keep it lightweight and affordable. While perfectly reliable and well-made, it doesn't possess the same deluxe feel as the Breville counterpart. The construction choices align with DeLonghi's focus on practicality and value.
Price & Value
The DeLonghi Citiz regularly has a lower price, usually ranging from $200 to $250. This makes it an excellent value proposition for someone who wants the high-quality coffee Nespresso is known for without a significant investment in the hardware. You get the exact same coffee technology for less money.
The Breville Citiz is priced higher, around $250 to $300. The value here is in the superior build quality, sleeker design, and premium materials. For those who view their coffee maker as a piece of decor and are willing to pay extra for a more stylish appliance, the Breville is well worth the cost.
Style & Versatility
Style is where these two machines diverge the most. The Breville Citiz sports a distinctly modern, minimalist design. Its angular shapes and metal trim make it a perfect match for contemporary, industrial, or Scandinavian kitchens. It's an appliance that’s meant to be seen.
The DeLonghi Citiz leans into a classic, retro-modern Italian design with softer curves and a friendly, approachable look. It's less of a design statement and more of a versatile appliance that can blend into a wider variety of kitchen styles, from traditional to transitional, without calling too much attention to itself.
Which One Should You Choose?
Since both machines produce identical espresso, your decision really comes down to your personal priorities in aesthetics, space, and budget.
Choose the Breville Citiz if:
- You prefer a modern, sleek aesthetic with clean lines and premium metal details.
- You have enough counter space and prefer a more substantial, heavier machine.
- Build quality and a deluxe feel are important factors in your purchase decision.
- You're willing to pay a little more for a coffee maker that doubles as a stylish kitchen accessory.
Choose the DeLonghi Citiz if:
- You need to save counter space in a small kitchen, apartment, or office.
- You are on a tighter budget and want the best value for your money.
- You prefer a classic, rounded design over a stark, modern one.
- You prioritize straightforward function and reliability over a premium finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Breville and DeLonghi Citiz?
The main difference is the manufacturer's design, materials, and size. Breville's version is more modern, uses more metal, and is slightly larger and more expensive. DeLonghi's is more compact, has a classic rounded look, and is generally more affordable. The internal coffee-making technology from Nespresso is the same in both.
Do they make the same quality coffee?
Yes. Both the Breville Citiz and the DeLonghi Citiz use the exact same Nespresso brewing system inside, including the 19-bar pressure pump. This means they will produce an identical cup of espresso if you use the same coffee capsule.
Why are there two different brands for the same machine?
Nespresso licenses their coffee brewing technology to various well-known home appliance manufacturers like Breville and DeLonghi. These brands then create their own exterior designs and shells for the machines, leading to different looks and feels for what is fundamentally the same coffee maker.
Is one more durable or reliable than the other?
Both machines are considered highly reliable and come with similar warranty terms. The Breville's materials may give it a slight edge in perceived durability and a more premium feel, but both are designed to deliver consistent performance for years with proper care.
Do both heat up equally fast?
Yes, both models feature Nespresso's fast heat-up system which reaches the ideal temperature in about 25 seconds.
Which is easier to clean?
Cleaning is almost identical for both machines. The process involves regularly running water-only cycles, emptying the used capsule container, and descaling the machine every few months. Both are low-maintenance.
Are some models sold with a milk frother?
Yes, both Breville and DeLonghi offer a "Citiz&Milk" bundle. This version includes an integrated Aeroccino milk frother attached to the machine's base, allowing you to create lattes and cappuccinos. If you don't buy the bundle, the standard Citiz model does not include a frother.
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