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Nespresso coffee maker

The Nespresso D90 Essenza should be included in a espresso making reviews package because it offers a very good price to features ratio.

For a machine at such a modest price, the Nespresso D90 Essenza delivers some amazing features. Still, there are some drawbacks you need to know about before deciding.

The D90 Essenza produces an amazing 19-bar of pressure. That’s almost unheard of in a machine that sells for an entry-level price. Luckily, it makes a far better than entry-level cup. That pressure is one of the key reasons why, since it helps squeeze every drop of flavor out of your coffee.

Also surprising is the inclusion of a ThermoBlock heating system. More than just a marketing buzzword, this mechanism ensures plenty of heat. Combining with its electronic temperature regulation, the D90 distributes it well throughout the system. That provides an even brew from start to finish, another key factor in producing a superior shot.

You’ll get plenty of it, too, thanks to the 34-ounce water tank. Happily, it’s removable for easy fill and clean up. At 34-ounces you have plenty of coffee to serve all your guests at the same time. And, since the tank is removable, you can easily use specialty de-calcification products or a simple mixture of vinegar and baking soda once a month to rinse away any build-up. Keeping your tank clean helps keep your brews top notch.

There is one limitation that causes this model to be put on the “Not for everyone” list, though. The Nespresso D90 Essenza uses proprietary coffee capsules that must be purchased from Nespresso. That’s a surprising design choice and will limit acceptance of an otherwise fine machine.

If you find capsules with a brew you like, excellent. Nespresso offers a number of pre-measured single-serve capsules in a number of blends. They offer a dozen varieties in single shot and double shot sizes.

But being required to purchase them from Nespresso is limiting. Most consumers want to purchase their key ingredient anywhere and everywhere and in different forms. You can’t use ESE pods or grounds, if you prefer; you’re locked into their capsules.

It certainly is convenient; you won’t have to tamp your grounds. And, the design makes it a breeze to dispose of the coffee when you’re done brewing. A used-capsule drawer can hold up to 14 spent capsules so you don’t necessarily have to dump one in the trash can the instant you want to make another shot.

The unit offers maximum simplicity in another way: there are only two buttons. To the left of the spout there’s a red On/Off button, to the right, a green brewing button. That certainly makes the whole operation as straightforward as possible. On the downside, many espresso lovers will miss the external hot water spout, a steam wand, and other extra features supplied by so many espresso machines.

Someone looking for the ultimate in ease of use will find the Nespresso D90 Essenza attractive, especially given the high pressure and the low price. But for those who want a little more flexibility, particularly with the main ingredient, best to look elsewhere.

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