Lungo drinker with limited counter space
You want a cup of the right size without giving up too much worktop space. Nespresso Netherlands lists a 110 ml lungo setting and a width of 8.4 cm for the Essenza Mini.
Which machine is right for you?
Home barista in a small kitchen
You want to prepare and control your coffee yourself, and are happy to allow extra time and space around the machine. De’Longhi and Sage describe manual machines with features for different brewing methods.
Bean drinker looking for convenience
You prefer beans and an adjustable drink volume. Check that your chosen bean-to-cup machine will fit and that its controls offer the cup size you want.
What should you look for in a lungo machine for a small kitchen?
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Space on and around the worktop | Measure the width, depth and height, and check that you can reach the water tank, capsule container or portafilter. | If my worktop is cramped, I want to know whether the machine will fit depth-wise too, while leaving enough room for filling and cleaning. Around 36% of consumers make placement their top priority. |
| A lungo with minimal effort | Check the stated or adjustable cup volume and which capsule system the machine uses. | I want to make a lungo without having to adjust the brewing process each time. Around 29% of consumers prioritise a quick, consistent lungo. |
| Preparing coffee yourself | Check which coffee, filters or pods are compatible and what controls the exact model has. | If I want to prepare the coffee myself and control the volume, manual brewing may fit my routine better. Around 21% of consumers prioritise this level of control. |
| Beans and adjustability | Check the available cup settings, the dimensions and how easy it is to access the machine for maintenance. | I’d rather use beans and be able to adjust the drink volume, but I need to allow enough space for the machine. Around 14% of consumers consider this their main purchasing priority. |
Pitfalls to avoid when buying a lungo machine
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Judging ‘compact’ by width alone
A narrow machine can still be deep or tall. For example, the De’Longhi EC685.M EX:4 is 149 mm wide and 330 mm deep, according to De’Longhi Netherlands.
Compare the full dimensions with the space you have available, and check that you can fill and clean the machine every day.
A machine that looks slim on paper may leave too little room on your worktop for everyday use.
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Assuming ‘lungo’, ‘long espresso’ and adjustable volume mean the same thing
Nespresso Netherlands lists a 110 ml lungo for the Essenza Mini. Lavazza describes a long espresso function for the Jolie Plus, but this does not confirm the same cup volume.
Check whether the exact model has the volume you want pre-set or lets you adjust it yourself.
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Looking at the machine alone
A capsule machine needs capsules that are compatible with its system. With manual brewing, you’ll need to prepare the coffee and clean the portafilter.
Compare the coffee you’ll need, how often you’ll use the machine and its maintenance routine before you choose.
Capsules, coffee and cleaning products can all be recurring costs; the products you need vary by system.
Brands to compare
Nespresso
The Original capsule system includes the Essenza Mini, which Nespresso Netherlands describes as compact and equipped with a lungo setting.
- Nespresso Netherlands lists a 110 ml lungo and a width of 8.4 cm for the Essenza Mini.
- This machine requires compatible capsules, which are an ongoing expense.
Lavazza
The A Modo Mio machines offer an alternative capsule system, and the Jolie Plus is one model worth comparing.
- Lavazza describes the Jolie Plus as offering a choice of regular or long espresso. The A Modo Mio range also includes Lungo Dolce capsules.
- The product specifications list a depth of 33 cm. Its long espresso function does not confirm the same cup volume as the 110 ml listed for the Essenza Mini.
De’Longhi
The Dedica Style is a manual portafilter range for those who want to prepare their coffee themselves.
- De’Longhi Netherlands lists a width of 149 mm, a hot water function and ESE pod compatibility for the EC685.M EX:4.
- The specifications listed do not confirm a pre-set lungo setting. Allow for manual preparation and the machine’s full depth.
Sage
The Bambino is a manual portafilter machine with controls for one or two shots.
- Sage lists shot volume control, hot water and a steam wand for the SES450BSS4EEU1.
- These features do not confirm a pre-set lungo setting. If you want a larger cup, check how to prepare your preferred drink.
Philips
The 2200 Series shows how a bean-to-cup machine with adjustable drink volumes works.
- Philips describes My Coffee Choice for the EP2220/10, which lets you adjust the strength and volume.
- Philips states that the EP2220/10 is no longer available. Check the features and availability of other models; they are not automatically the same.
Joybuy machines for making lungo in a small kitchen
This selection includes Original capsule machines with a stated lungo option, as well as manual portafilter machines that let you control the coffee volume yourself. For a manual model, check how to prepare the cup size you want.
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Nespresso Original Krups XN3063 Pixie, Dark Green
A capsule machine for anyone looking for a lungo option and a slim design.
The product information lists espresso and lungo buttons and a width of 11,10 cm. The stated dimensions are 32,60 × 11,10 × 23,50 cm. Compatible with Nespresso Original capsules; loose ground coffee is not suitable.
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Nespresso Original De’Longhi EN85.BKMT Essenza Mini, Black Matt
A capsule machine for anyone looking for a dedicated lungo option and a slim design.
The product information lists a 110 ml lungo, programmable cup sizes and a width of 11 cm. The water tank capacity is listed as 0,60 l. Compatible with Nespresso Original capsules.
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Nespresso Original De’Longhi EN510.W Lattissima One, White
A capsule machine for anyone who wants a dedicated lungo option and the ability to make milk-based drinks.
The product information lists espresso and lungo options and a removable, refillable milk jug. You’ll need to fill and clean the jug when making milk-based drinks. Designed for Nespresso capsules.
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Krups Authentic+ C40 XP384G
A manual portafilter machine for anyone who wants to choose and prepare their own coffee.
The product information lists fresh or pre-ground coffee, manual selection for one or two cups and a built-in steam wand. The machine accommodates different cup sizes; coffee is prepared in the portafilter.
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De’Longhi Dedica EC685, Metal
A manual espresso machine for anyone who wants to control the coffee volume themselves.
The product information lists a width of 14,90 cm and a depth of 34 cm. E.S.E. pods require the separately available DLSC402 filter. Coffee is prepared manually.
Frequently asked questions
Is a ‘long espresso’ button the same as a 110 ml lungo?
No, don’t assume they produce the same cup volume. Nespresso Netherlands lists 110 ml for the Essenza Mini; Lavazza describes a long espresso for the Jolie Plus without specifying the same volume.
What should I measure before placing a machine under kitchen cupboards?
Measure the available width, depth and height, and allow room to fill and clean the machine. Nespresso Netherlands lists dimensions of 8,4 × 20,4 × 33 cm for the Essenza Mini; De’Longhi Netherlands lists 149 × 330 × 305 mm for the EC685.M EX:4.
How do I maintain an Essenza Mini?
Follow the instructions for your specific model. On its customer service page, Nespresso Netherlands recommends descaling after 400 to 600 capsules or at least three times a year. This advice applies to the Nespresso model mentioned, not as a universal interval for other brands.
What can I do if a machine I bought online develops a fault?
For a consumer purchase in the Netherlands, the retailer is your point of contact if the product is not as it should be. The Dutch government explains that your statutory rights against the retailer apply alongside any manufacturer’s guarantee; the expected lifespan depends on the product and the circumstances.
Can I return an espresso machine bought online?
According to the Dutch government, distance purchases generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period. Check the retailer’s information for your order and any applicable exceptions.