The Nespresso Essenza Mini by Krups is a compact Original-system capsule machine for kitchens where worktop space is limited. The XN110840 focuses on two programmable drinks, Espresso and Lungo, rather than a grinder, milk system or speciality-drink menu.
This overview is adapted from our existing equipment review, rather than a hands-on testing report.
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Why consider the Essenza Mini?
The strongest case is small dimensions combined with straightforward operation. Insert a compatible capsule, choose a drink and let the machine dispense the programmed amount.
There is no grind size to select, dose to weigh or basket to tamp. For someone who wants to explore those variables, that is a limitation. For someone who wants to minimise preparation, it is the point.
Key features
- A listed width of 8.4cm for the Krups XN110840.
- Nespresso Original capsule compatibility.
- Programmable Espresso and Lungo buttons.
- Automatic beverage stop.
- Approximate 25-second heat-up.
- A 0.6-litre removable water tank.
- Used-capsule capacity of approximately five to six capsules.
- A removable drip tray.
- Automatic power-off.
How it works
Fill the water tank, switch on and allow the machine to heat. Lift the lever, insert a compatible capsule and close it, then select Espresso or Lungo. Dispensing stops at the programmed volume. Lift the lever afterwards to eject the used capsule into its container.
Follow the supplied instructions for initial rinsing, programming and safe operation. The simple workflow trades preparation flexibility for convenience.
Espresso and Lungo controls
Both buttons can be programmed for your preferred beverage quantity. That offers useful adjustment without the dose, grind, distribution and extraction-ratio control of a traditional portafilter machine.
The Essenza Mini is a capsule system, not a substitute for the manual espresso-making experience.
Original capsules, not Vertuo
Nespresso Vertuo capsules do not fit the Essenza Mini. It belongs to the Original system, which also has compatible capsules from other coffee brands. Check that any capsules you buy explicitly state Original-machine compatibility.
If you want the broader serving-size range of Vertuo, compare our Nespresso Vertuo Next review. Choosing between the systems means choosing a capsule ecosystem as well as a machine.
How small is the Krups XN110840?
The existing equipment page records approximate dimensions of 8.4cm wide × 33cm deep × 20.4cm high, with a weight of 2.3kg. Check current specifications for the exact listing before buying, as Essenza Mini variants can differ.
The narrow front does not tell the whole story: depth, access to the tank and clearance to operate the lever also matter. Measure the full footprint rather than width alone.
Water and used-capsule capacity
The 0.6-litre tank and five-to-six-capsule container are part of the compact design's compromise. They may require more frequent attention when several people make drinks in succession.
Tank capacity does not translate into a fixed number of coffees because programmed volumes and rinsing affect consumption. Empty used capsules regularly rather than leaving wet coffee waste sitting inside.
What does the 19-bar pump mean?
Krups lists a 19-bar pump. That maximum-pressure figure should not be treated as a simple coffee-quality ranking against other types of machine.
The machine is designed as a complete capsule brewing system. Compatibility, convenience and the coffee you enjoy are more useful buying criteria than comparing pump numbers.
No integrated milk frother
The standard machine does not texture milk. That keeps the appliance small and uncomplicated for Espresso and Lungo drinkers.
For cappuccinos and lattes, include a separate frother in the budget and worktop-space calculation, or compare a bundle that includes one. Check the package contents rather than assuming a frother is supplied.
Essenza Mini versus CitiZ with Aeroccino
Both use Original capsules. The Essenza Mini prioritises a small footprint and basic capsule brewing. A CitiZ-and-Aeroccino bundle adds a larger water tank and separate automatic milk frothing.
If milk drinks are a daily priority, compare the complete setup. If you mainly make Espresso or Lungo and space is tight, the Mini has the clearer proposition.
Essenza Mini versus Sage Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus uses a portafilter: you prepare the ground coffee and tamp it, while automatic milk-texturing assistance handles part of the milk workflow. It gives you more scope to learn and experiment.
The Essenza Mini removes most of that preparation through pre-portioned capsules. Decide whether coffee-making is a process you want to explore or minimise.
Running costs
Every drink requires a compatible capsule. Compare current cost per serving and household consumption as well as the initial machine price.
We have not fixed capsule prices in this review because they change. Frequent users should compare ongoing capsule costs with whole-bean or ground-coffee alternatives before choosing a system.
Recycling and waste
Used capsules create a different waste stream from loose-coffee brewing. Check current UK recycling arrangements for your postcode and the specific capsules you buy.
The existence of a recycling scheme does not by itself make capsule coffee environmentally preferable. Packaging material, collection and actual recycling behaviour all matter.
Cleaning and descaling
Simple preparation does not mean maintenance-free ownership. Empty the capsule container and drip tray, rinse the tank and keep the outlet and surrounding areas clean.
Descale according to the instructions for the exact model. Water hardness and usage affect the required frequency.
Who is it best for?
Consider the Essenza Mini if you have limited worktop space, mainly drink Espresso or Lungo, prefer Original capsules and value predictable preparation over manual brewing control.
Look elsewhere if you want fresh-bean grinding and detailed espresso control, make several drinks in quick succession and dislike frequent refilling, or need milk preparation included. A Vertuo machine is required if Vertuo capsules are your priority.
Our take
The Essenza Mini's strengths are a narrow footprint, quick startup and simple Original-capsule brewing. The compromises are a small tank and capsule container, no milk system and limited extraction control.
For someone who wants a compact machine for a predictable short coffee with little preparation, that is a useful role. It is a different proposition from learning espresso on a portafilter machine, not a smaller version of that experience.
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Plan your next home-coffee step
If you are comparing capsules with other brewing methods, explore The Complete Beginner's Guide to Home Coffee for help building a setup around the drinks you enjoy.