Nespress Pixie, like the name implies is a compact machine that makes a variety of coffee beverages from capsules. Its strength lies in the fact that it is quiet and super quick. The Pixie machine ideology revolves around convenience, speed and ease of use.
Features:
- The Ergonomic design is small enough to fit on any counter in an apartment or the dorm room and lightweight enough to take with you anywhere you go.
- The Pixie is fully automatic, all you need to do is plug it in and press one button.
- The multiple size selector allows a choice of strengths, so regardless of whether you like you espresso shots strong or a bit lighter, the option is available.
- The Pixie brews at a standard 19 bar-pressure, just like the professional machines at some of the best coffee houses.
- The Thermoblock technology heats water to the exact temperature ideal for the desired drink. There is no guess work, so the drinks come out tasting the same each time.
- There is a large variety of drinks to select from, thirty to be exact.
- Easy to clean, all the Pixie requires is a wipe down and occasional descaling.
- A used capsule holder capable of storing a maximum of ten used capsules before the need to empty.
- The easily removable drip tray allows for larger sized mugs to fit under the nozzle. It also folds upwards along the front of the unit.
- Cool looking back lights along the side of the unit warn you when the water tank is running low
- The nine minute automatic off button ensures no energy is wasted.
Speed & Asthestics:
For people on the go, or those who have no patience to wait around for water to heat up, the Nespresso Pixie is the answer to their dreams. Its built-in heater heats up water in no time at all, well actually 25 seconds to be exact. Unlike some of the more bulky machines this condensed piece, just 4.4 x 9.3 x 12.9 inches for those individuals who like to be precise, gets the drink in your hand in under a minute. The elegantly designed units comes in chrome and aluminium finish.
Ease of Use:
The capsules work like in most other machines no news there. Just lift the lever in front of the machine, drop the capsule in the designated holder and press the lever back into position. Next power the unit on and press the desired espresso shot size button. For standard 1 to 1.5 ounce press the button with small cup on it, for the lungo shot press the button with larger cup image on it. Give it about half a minute and your drink is ready with a nice thick, golden crema on top.
Reviewer Remarks
Most of the reviewers who used the Pixie find it to make really great coffee and very impressed with the crema it produces. They appreciate the small footprint and convenience the machine offers. However, number reviewers found the water reservoir to be a bit small, requiring frequent refilling. Some people mentioned that the folding drip trap does not remain folded; it falls back unless it is held in place with one hand while the coffee is being brewed. Another reviewer had an issue with coffee spray while the machine was in operation.
Final Word
There is no question that the Nespresso Pixie makes a great tasting shot of espresso. The precision pump pressure creates great looking crema. The machine is easy to operate; there is no need to measure or tamper anything and virtually no maintenance. If you are a creature of habit who will be making single cups most of the time and like the no fuss procedure, then this is the coffee maker of your dreams.
If you want to keep the option of using your own beans open, then you will be out of luck with this unit. Also if you need multiple cups then you will need something with quicker turnaround time than the Pixie can offer. Finally, keep in mind that if you plan on drinking macchiatos, cappuccinos or lattes then you should be prepared to dish out some extra money for the Aeroccino milk frother.
