Krups Dolce Gusto MiniMe review
Krups Dolce Gusto MiniMe review. Experience the convenience and style of the Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini Me. Compact and efficient, it's perfect for quick, delicious brews with a variety of drink options.
Summary / TL;DR
The Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini Me is a compact single-serve coffee machine designed for convenience and style. It offers a wide variety of drink options, from espressos to cappuccinos and hot chocolate, using proprietary Dolce Gusto pods. While its small size makes it ideal for limited counter spaces, the reliance on pods may not appeal to those who prefer grinding their own beans.
Constructed primarily from durable plastic, the Mini Me is sturdy, though some may prefer metal components for longevity. It features a straightforward user interface and a height-adjustable drip tray for different cup sizes. However, color options are limited, which might not suit all kitchen decors.
Technologically, the Mini Me boasts a 15-bar pressure pump for quality coffee and a Thermoblock heating system for quick brewing. It lacks a built-in milk frother, requiring a separate purchase for frothy drinks. The machine can be noisy, but it offers customizable water settings with automatic flow stop technology.
Compared to competitors like the Nespresso Pixie and Keurig K-Mini, the Mini Me stands out for its drink variety and affordability, though it may not match the premium feel of some high-end models. Overall, it’s a practical choice for those seeking a quick, diverse coffee experience without the fuss. However, the ongoing cost of pods and limited flavor range might deter more adventurous coffee aficionados.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Krups Nespresso CitiZ or Krups Dolce Gusto Infinissima Touch or Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS.
Introduction
Welcome to the world of single-serve coffee makers, where convenience meets style. If you're on the hunt for a compact yet efficient coffee machine, the Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini Me might just catch your eye. This machine is designed for those who crave a quick and easy brewing experience without compromising on taste.
The Mini Me is part of the popular Dolce Gusto line, known for its ability to deliver a wide variety of drinks with just the push of a button. Whether you're a fan of espressos, cappuccinos, or even hot chocolate, this machine has got you covered. Its small footprint makes it a perfect fit for kitchens with limited counter space, or even a cozy office setup.
However, don't let its compact size fool you. The Mini Me boasts a range of features that aim to enhance your coffee-making experience. While it excels in providing a quick brew, some users might find its reliance on proprietary Dolce Gusto pods a bit limiting, especially if you prefer grinding your own beans.
Overall, the Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini Me is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy a variety of beverages with minimal fuss. It's a blend of modern design and functionality that's hard to resist, but it might not be the best fit for coffee purists who prefer a more hands-on approach.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is a delightful blend of modern aesthetics and practical functionality. This coffee machine sports a compact and sleek design, making it a perfect fit for kitchens of all sizes, from spacious setups to cozy nooks. Its minimalist style, with smooth curves and a contemporary finish, adds a touch of elegance to any countertop.
The machine is made primarily of durable plastic, which helps keep the weight down without sacrificing sturdiness. It's solidly built, and you can feel a reassuring heft when you interact with it. However, some might argue that the use of plastic instead of metal could affect its long-term durability. Despite this, the materials used don't feel cheap, and the overall construction appears robust enough to withstand regular use. The user interface is straightforward with a simple lever and a few buttons, making it easy to operate.
The height-adjustable drip tray is a thoughtful addition, accommodating different cup sizes with ease. This feature ensures that whether you're in the mood for a quick espresso or a longer drink, the Mini Me has got you covered. Color options are available, including black and possibly other colors, allowing you to choose one that best matches your kitchen decor. While the color choices are a nice touch, they are somewhat limited, which might be a downside for those looking to match specific kitchen themes.
In summary, the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me impresses with its stylish design and solid build. It’s a well-thought-out machine that balances form and function, though some might wish for more premium materials and color variety. Still, for its price range, it offers a great mix of aesthetics and practicality.

Features and Technology
The Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is packed with impressive features and technology that cater to both coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. One of the standout aspects is its 15-bar pressure pump, which ensures that your coffee comes out with a rich aroma and a perfect layer of crema. This is what you need for a café-quality experience right at home.
Another great feature is the Thermoblock heating system, which heats water quickly, allowing you to brew your coffee in less than a minute. This system also helps maintain the optimal temperature for each cup, ensuring consistency with every brew.
The machine offers a wide variety of drink options, thanks to the extensive range of Dolce Gusto capsules. Whether you're in the mood for an espresso, cappuccino, or even a hot chocolate, there's a pod for that. It's like having a mini café menu at your fingertips!
One minor drawback is that the Mini Me doesn't have a built-in milk frother. If you fancy a frothy cappuccino or latte, you’ll need to invest in a separate milk frother. However, the convenience of the capsule system and the variety it offers might still win you over.
The automatic flow stop technology is another noteworthy feature. It allows you to set the amount of water for your coffee, so you can customize the strength and size of your drink. No more guesswork or overflowing cups!
On the downside, the machine can be a bit noisy during operation, which might be a slight annoyance if you're brewing early in the morning while others are still asleep. But, considering the speed and quality of the brew, it might be a small price to pay.

Performance and Brewing Experience
The performance and brewing experience with this machine is pretty impressive for its size. It brews a variety of beverages, from espresso to espresso-based drinks like cappuccino (when used with an external frother), with consistent quality. The 19-bar pressure pump ensures that each cup is rich in flavor and has a delightful crema, which is essential for true coffee lovers.
One of the best parts is how quickly it heats up. In less than a minute, you're ready to go, thanks to the fast heat-up system. This is perfect for those rushed mornings when every second counts. The machine can handle both hot beverages and a dedicated hot water function, giving you flexibility based on your mood or the weather.
Now, let's talk about the noise. It's not the quietest machine out there. The brewing process can be a bit loud, especially if you're trying to keep things serene in the morning. However, the noise is pretty standard for machines in this category, so it might not be a dealbreaker for everyone.
The capsule system is both a blessing and a curse. It makes the brewing process incredibly simple and mess-free, but you're limited to the brand's selection of drinks. If you're into experimenting with different coffee blends, this might feel a bit restrictive.
In terms of temperature consistency, the machine holds up well. Each cup comes out at the perfect temperature for immediate enjoyment, which is not always the case with similar machines. This ensures that your coffee is not only tasty but also ready to drink right away.
Overall, the brewing experience is largely positive, with a few minor quirks. If you're looking for a machine that delivers a solid cup of coffee quickly and without fuss, this one does the job well.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is designed to make your coffee experience as hassle-free as possible. Its intuitive design means you don't need to be a barista to brew a great cup. The machine uses a capsule system, so there's no need to measure coffee grounds or worry about filters. Just pop in a capsule, adjust the water level with the easy-to-use lever, and you're good to go.
One of the best things about this machine is its quick heat-up time. It takes just about 30 seconds to get ready, which is perfect for those busy mornings. The automatic shut-off feature kicks in after five minutes of inactivity, saving you energy and providing peace of mind.
Cleaning is pretty straightforward too. The drip tray and capsule holder are both removable, but they are not specifically mentioned as dishwasher-safe in most descriptions. Just remember, the water tank needs regular refilling and occasional descaling to keep the machine running smoothly. It's a small price to pay for a consistently good brew.
However, the water tank is a bit on the smaller side, holding about 0.8 liters. If you're making multiple drinks back-to-back, you might find yourself needing to refill it more often. But for most folks, this won't be a deal-breaker.
Overall, the Dolce Gusto Mini Me strikes a nice balance between convenience and functionality, making it a great choice for anyone looking to simplify their coffee routine without sacrificing quality.

What's in the Box
When you crack open the box of the Krups Dolce Gusto MiniMe, you’ll find everything neatly packed and ready to set you on your coffee-making journey. Here's what you can expect to find inside:
- The Machine Itself: The star of the show, the MiniMe coffee machine, is compact yet stylish, designed to fit snugly on any kitchen counter without hogging space.
- Water Tank: A detachable water tank is included, which is easy to fill and clean. It’s transparent, so you can always keep an eye on water levels.
- Drip Tray: An adjustable drip tray is provided to ensure your cups sit at the perfect height, preventing any messy spills during brewing.
- Coffee Pods: A selection of coffee pods, such as NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Flat White, Cappuccino, Americano, Latte Macchiato, Americano Bold Morning, and Latte Chococino, might accompany your purchase, giving you a chance to sample some flavors right away.
- User Manual: A straightforward manual is included to help you get started quickly, with clear instructions and useful tips.
While the package covers the essentials, some might find the lack of additional accessories like a milk frother or cleaning tools a bit limiting. Nevertheless, the simplicity of the contents aligns well with the machine's focus on easy, hassle-free coffee brewing.
Competitor Comparison
When looking at the Krups Nescafé Dolce Gusto Mini Me, it's essential to see how it stacks up against other popular capsule coffee machines in its category. Let's dive into a few comparisons that might help you decide if this is the right fit for your kitchen.
Nespresso Pixie: Known for its sleek design and rapid heating time, the Nespresso Pixie is a strong contender. It offers a slightly more premium feel and has a broader range of coffee pods. However, the Pixie tends to be pricier and doesn't offer the same versatility in beverage options as the Mini Me.
Keurig K-Mini: The Keurig K-Mini is another compact option. It excels in simplicity and ease of use, making it a favorite for those who prefer a straightforward brewing process. However, it lacks the adjustable settings and beverage variety that the Mini Me offers. If you're someone who likes to experiment with different flavors and styles, the Mini Me might have the edge.
- Variety of Drinks: The Mini Me shines with its ability to brew both hot and cold beverages, while many competitors focus solely on hot drinks.
- Price Point: Compared to some higher-end models, the Mini Me offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much on performance.
- Footprint: Its compact design is a win for those with limited counter space, surpassing bulkier models like the Keurig K-Elite.
Overall, while the Mini Me may not have the luxury feel of some high-end machines, it balances affordability, versatility, and ease of use better than many competitors. If you're looking for a machine that offers a variety of drink options without breaking the bank, the Krups Nescafé Dolce Gusto Mini Me is worth considering.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me offers a delightful balance of convenience, style, and functionality for coffee lovers. Its compact design and color options make it a great addition to any kitchen, especially if you're short on counter space.
The wide variety of beverage options ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're a fan of espresso, cappuccino, or even hot chocolate. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the cost of pods can add up over time, making it less budget-friendly in the long run compared to traditional coffee makers. Additionally, the machine's reliance on pods means you're tied to the available flavor range, which might not satisfy the more adventurous coffee connoisseurs seeking unique blends.
On the positive side, the eco-mode feature with automatic shut-off after five minutes of inactivity and the easy-to-use interface make it a breeze for anyone to operate, even if you're not a morning person. Cleaning and maintaining the machine is straightforward, which adds to its appeal for busy individuals.
Overall, if you're looking for a simple, quick, and stylish way to enjoy a variety of drinks at home, this machine is definitely worth considering. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate the convenience of pod-based brewing without compromising on taste and quality.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Compact and stylish design
- Wide variety of drink options
- Quick heat-up time
- Automatic flow stop feature
- Easy to use and maintain
Cons
- Relies on proprietary pods
- No built-in milk frother
- Can be noisy during operation
- Small water tank capacity
Technical specifications
Product Name | Nescafé Dolce Gusto Mini Me |
---|---|
Brand | Krups |
Model | Mini Me |
Type | Capsule Coffee Machine |
Color Options | Grey, Red |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | 30.7 cm x 16.1 cm x 24.2 cm |
Weight | Less than 2 kg |
Water Tank Capacity | 0.8 liters |
Power | 1600 watts |
Voltage | 220 V |
Pressure | 15 bar |
Capsule System | Nescafé Dolce Gusto |
Automatic Shut-off | Yes, after 5 minutes of inactivity |
Adjustable Drip Tray | Yes |
Hot & Cold Functionality | Yes |
Control Type | Lever |
Energy Consumption | Energy-efficient with Eco Mode |
Material | Plastic |
Included Accessories | Starter pack of capsules (not confirmed) |
Warranty | Not specified |
Country of Manufacture | Not specified |
Frequently Asked Questions
To clean the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior. The capsule holder is dishwasher-safe, but the drip tray and water tank should be washed manually. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and flavor.
The Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me has a water tank capacity of 0.8 liters, making it ideal for single-serve coffee needs.
No, the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is only compatible with Dolce Gusto capsules. It does not support Nespresso or other third-party capsules.
It is recommended to descale the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me every 3-4 months to prevent limescale buildup and ensure longevity.
The Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me operates at a power of 1500-1600 watts, depending on the model. It also features an Eco Mode to save energy.
Low water pressure in the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is often due to limescale buildup. Descaling the machine regularly can resolve this issue.
Yes, the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is very easy to use. Simply insert a capsule, select your desired water level, and choose hot or cold water to brew your coffee.
Yes, the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me can make both hot and cold beverages with ease, thanks to its simple hot/cold water selection feature.
To purge the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me, run water through both the hot and cold settings without a capsule to ensure the system is clean and ready for use.
Yes, the Krups Dolce Gusto Mini Me is designed to be compact, making it perfect for small kitchens with limited space.
Important
Before buying any product, check all details of this product on the website or in the store where you purchase it. Aspects and specifications mentioned in the text above might differ.