Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS review

The NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS is a compact coffee machine designed for those who value simplicity and efficiency without sacrificing flavor. Its sleek design and user-friendly interface make it ideal for small spaces, such as kitchens or offices. The machine offers a variety of beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, and hot chocolate, using proprietary capsules. However, its 0.8-liter water tank may require frequent refilling for multiple users, and the reliance on capsules limits the use of fresh grounds.

Despite its plastic construction, the Piccolo XS is durable and easy to maintain. It features a high-pressure system for quality coffee extraction and a manual control lever for customizing drink strength and volume. An eco-mode helps conserve energy by automatically shutting off after one minute of inactivity.

While it may not match the luxury of pricier models or the versatility of competitors like Nespresso or Keurig, the Piccolo XS is a reliable, budget-friendly option for those seeking a straightforward coffee experience. It’s best suited for casual drinkers who appreciate convenience and variety. The machine is easy to clean, though it can be a bit noisy during operation. Overall, it delivers consistent performance and quality coffee, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Krups Dolce Gusto MiniMe or Krups Dolce Gusto Infinissima Touch or Krups Dolce Gusto Genio S Plus.

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Are you in the market for a compact coffee machine that doesn't compromise on flavor? Look no further than the NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS. This pint-sized powerhouse is perfect for those who crave a quick and delicious coffee fix without the fuss. Perfect for small kitchens or tight spaces, it delivers a variety of beverages with just a touch of a button.

With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this machine is designed to be as straightforward as possible. It’s all about simplicity and efficiency, ideal for coffee enthusiasts who are short on time but big on taste.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. While it's a great option for casual coffee drinkers, the limited water tank capacity of 0.8 liters might leave you wanting if you're serving a crowd. Also, it primarily uses proprietary capsules, which can be a bit limiting if you prefer a wider range of coffee options or want to use your own grounds.

Despite these minor drawbacks, for those looking to enjoy a hassle-free coffee experience at home, the Piccolo XS offers a solid balance of convenience and quality.

The design and build quality of the Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS is noteworthy. This compact coffee machine is perfect for those with limited counter space. Its sleek and modern look, available in several colors, can easily complement any kitchen decor. The small footprint means it can fit into tight spaces, making it an ideal choice for apartments or offices where space is at a premium.

Crafted from durable materials, the machine feels solid and well-built. The exterior is primarily made of plastic, which keeps it lightweight but might not feel as premium as some metal-bodied machines. However, this doesn't compromise its sturdiness or longevity. The minimalistic design, with a simple control interface, makes it easy to clean and maintain.

The water tank has a capacity of around 0.8 liters. This might require more frequent refilling if you're a heavy coffee drinker or hosting friends. But, on the flip side, it's easy to remove and refill, so it's not a huge inconvenience. The drip tray is not adjustable in the sense of having multiple positions, but it is removable, which is a thoughtful touch for accommodating different cup sizes.

Overall, the Piccolo XS strikes a balance between style and functionality. While it might not have the most luxurious materials, its clever design and practical features make it a reliable choice for everyday use.

The Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS is a compact coffee machine that packs a punch with its range of features and functionality. It's designed to cater to both coffee aficionados and casual drinkers alike, offering a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences.

Variety of Beverage Options

This machine supports a wide array of beverage capsules, allowing you to make anything from a robust espresso to a creamy cappuccino, or even hot chocolate and cold beverages. The versatility is a big selling point, especially for households where everyone has their own favorite drink.

High-Pressure System

With a high-pressure pump that can reach up to 15 bars, the Piccolo XS can extract all the rich flavors and aromas from the capsules, delivering coffee-shop quality beverages right at home. This system ensures a thick, velvety crema on your espresso, which is a hallmark of quality coffee.

Manual Control Lever

The manual control lever allows you to customize the coffee strength and volume to your liking. While some might find the manual operation a bit old-school compared to fully automated machines, it gives you more control over your brew. It might take a few tries to get your perfect cup, but the flexibility is worth it.

Eco Mode

Featuring an eco-mode, the machine automatically switches off after 1 minute of inactivity. This is a great feature for energy saving, although some users might find the auto-shutoff a tad too quick if they're in the midst of making multiple drinks.

Compact and Lightweight

Its compact size doesn't compromise its functionality. The Piccolo XS is designed to fit in small spaces, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. It's also lightweight, which makes moving it around a breeze, whether you're rearranging your kitchen or taking it to the office.

In summary, the Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS offers a solid range of features that cater to various preferences. It might lack some of the advanced features of pricier models, but it does a great job of covering the essentials, especially considering its size and price point.

The ease of use of the Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS is one of its standout features, making it a top choice for many coffee lovers. The machine is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring you can brew your favorite cup of coffee without any hassle. Let's break down what makes this machine so user-friendly.

First off, the compact size of the Piccolo XS is a big plus. It fits easily into tight kitchen spaces, which is perfect if you're working with limited countertop area. Despite its small size, the water tank is surprisingly easy to fill and attach back to the machine, which is a common gripe with some other models.

Operating the machine is straightforward. There's no need to fumble with complicated settings or buttons. Just pop in a pod, adjust the lever, and you're good to go. The manual control system lets you control the amount of water, giving you the flexibility to tailor your drink to your personal taste. However, this manual aspect might not be everyone's preference—some might prefer an automatic stop function to avoid overfilling their cup.

Cleaning the Piccolo XS is also a breeze. Most parts are detachable and can be rinsed under the tap, which is great for daily maintenance. The drip tray is adjustable, accommodating different cup sizes and reducing splashes. However, keep in mind that the water tank is on the smaller side, meaning more frequent refills if you're a heavy coffee drinker.

In summary, the Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS shines in its simplicity and efficiency. While the manual control might require a little getting used to, especially if you're used to fully automated machines, the overall user experience is smooth. This machine is perfect for someone looking for a quick and uncomplicated coffee-making process without bells and whistles.

The performance of the NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS is quite impressive for its size. This compact machine heats up quickly, ensuring that you don't have to wait long for your morning cup of joe. Thanks to its 15-bar pressure pump, it delivers a rich and aromatic coffee that rivals more expensive models. The consistent pressure ensures that each cup is brewed with a perfect balance of flavor and crema.

When it comes to coffee quality, the Piccolo XS doesn't disappoint. It supports a wide variety of coffee pods, allowing you to enjoy everything from espressos to cappuccinos. The flavor profiles are generally spot-on, with a good balance between strength and smoothness. However, the temperature of the coffee might be a tad cooler than some might prefer, especially if you enjoy piping hot beverages.

One area where the machine could improve is the noise level. It tends to be a bit louder than other models, which might not be ideal for early risers trying to maintain a peaceful morning atmosphere. Also, the water tank is on the smaller side, which means you'll find yourself refilling it more frequently if you're brewing multiple cups.

Overall, the NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS offers a solid performance with quality coffee output, making it a great choice for those who prioritize convenience and variety in their coffee routine.

When you unbox the NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS, you'll find everything you need to start brewing your favorite coffee right away. Here's what you'll get:

• Piccolo XS Coffee Machine: The main attraction, with its compact design and sleek finish.
• Water Tank: A detachable water reservoir that holds up to 0.8 liters, making it easy to refill and clean.
• Drip Tray: An adjustable tray that can be set to accommodate different cup sizes, preventing spills and keeping your counter clean.
• Instruction Manual: A detailed guide to help you get started and make the most of your coffee machine.
• Welcome Pack: Some packages might include a selection of different coffee pods to introduce you to the variety of flavors available.

While the contents of the box are pretty standard, one thing to note is that it doesn't include any additional accessories like a milk frother. If you're a fan of lattes or cappuccinos, you might need to purchase a separate frother. Also, the absence of a built-in pod storage could be a minor inconvenience for those who like to keep their coffee station tidy. Nevertheless, the essentials are all there, ensuring you a smooth start to your coffee journey with this machine.

When looking at the Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS, there's no shortage of competitors in the pad- and cup machine market. Let's see how it stacks up against some popular alternatives.

Nespresso Essenza Mini

The Nespresso Essenza Mini is another compact coffee machine that boasts a sleek design. It offers a similar footprint, making it ideal for small spaces. One advantage of the Essenza Mini is its compatibility with Nespresso OriginalLine capsules, which are widely available and often praised for their rich flavor profiles. However, it comes at a higher price point than the Piccolo XS, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Philips Senseo Original

The Philips Senseo Original offers a different brewing experience with its use of coffee pads instead of capsules. This machine is known for its simplicity and affordability. However, the coffee it produces might not be as strong or flavorful as what you get from the Piccolo XS. The Senseo is a good option for those who prefer a milder coffee and want to keep costs low.

Keurig K-Mini

The Keurig K-Mini is another key player in the compact coffee machine category. It offers the convenience of using K-Cup pods, which are widely available in a variety of flavors and brands. The K-Mini has an edge with its adjustable cup size feature, allowing more customization in your coffee experience. However, it tends to be bulkier than the Piccolo XS, which could be a downside for those with limited counter space.

In summary, the Krups Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS holds its ground with its compact design and affordability. While it may not offer the same range of capsule options as the Nespresso or the adjustability of the Keurig, its simplicity and ease of use make it a strong contender for those seeking a straightforward coffee solution. It's all about what fits your lifestyle and taste preferences!

In conclusion, the NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS is an impressive option if you're looking for a compact and efficient coffee machine. Its sleek design and user-friendly interface make it a great fit for small kitchens or office spaces. The machine's ability to brew a variety of beverages, from espresso to hot chocolate, ensures a versatile coffee experience. However, it's worth noting that the machine might not be the best choice for those who prefer freshly ground coffee, as it relies solely on pods. Additionally, while the water tank is sufficient for personal use, it may require frequent refilling if you have multiple coffee drinkers in the household.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Piccolo XS delivers on its promise of quality coffee with minimal effort. Its quick heating time and consistent performance make it a reliable choice for daily use.

Plus, the wide range of compatible pods allows you to explore different flavors and styles without any hassle. Overall, the Piccolo XS stands out as a convenient and stylish solution for anyone who values simplicity and variety in their coffee routine. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or just need a quick caffeine fix, this machine is sure to meet your needs.

Video by: Vanden Borre

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