Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee? Yes, Citiz Brews Regular Coffee

Introduction

If you have ever stood in a kitchen holding a box of Nespresso capsules and wondered, “Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee?” you are not alone. The Nespresso Citiz is one of the most recognizable machines in the OriginalLine family, known for its compact, retro-inspired design and straightforward operation. Yet many coffee drinkers remain uncertain whether it can produce a standard cup of coffee comparable to what comes out of a drip brewer or a pour-over setup.

The short answer is yes, but with important distinctions. The Citiz is fundamentally an espresso machine. It brews espresso and lungo shots using pressurized extraction and sealed capsules. However, it can also produce a larger, milder cup that satisfies many people looking for regular coffee, especially when you adjust the brew size or prepare an Americano. Understanding exactly how the Citiz works, what button to press, and which capsules to choose makes the difference between a satisfying cup and a disappointing one.

In this guide, we explain whether the Nespresso Citiz makes regular coffee, how it compares to other brewing methods, and how to get the best results from your machine. You will also find step-by-step instructions, a comparison table, maintenance tips, and answers to the most common questions about the Citiz.

Table of Contents

• What Is the Nespresso Citiz?
• Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee?
• How the Citiz Brews Coffee
• Espresso vs Regular Coffee: Understanding the Difference
• Citiz Models and Coffee Sizes
• Step-by-Step: Brewing Regular Coffee with Nespresso Citiz
• Using Third-Party and Reusable Capsules
• Comparison Table: Citiz vs Other Nespresso Machines
• Tips and Best Practices
• Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
• Cleaning and Maintenance
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

What Is the Nespresso Citiz?

The Nespresso Citiz is a member of Nespresso’s OriginalLine, which means it is designed to brew espresso-based beverages using hermetically sealed aluminum capsules. It was developed to bring café-style espresso into homes and offices without requiring a bulky commercial machine. The Citiz is manufactured under license by partners such as Breville and Krups, so you may see slight variations in branding, but the core brewing technology remains the same across models.

One of the Citiz’s defining characteristics is its compact footprint. It fits easily on most countertops and features a removable water tank, a used capsule container that holds roughly nine to eleven capsules, and a drip tray. The machine heats water quickly using a thermoblock system and pumps it through the capsule at up to 19 bars of pressure. This pressure is essential for creating the crema and concentrated flavor associated with espresso.

Most Citiz models come with two programmable buttons on the top panel: one for espresso and one for lungo. Some versions, sold as Citiz & Milk, include an integrated Aeroccino milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes. However, the standard Citiz does not steam or froth milk on its own. It is a black-coffee machine first and foremost, which is exactly why the question “Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee?” deserves a detailed answer.

Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee?

Yes, the Nespresso Citiz can make regular coffee, but it does not brew coffee the same way a traditional drip machine does. If by “regular coffee” you mean an eight-ounce or twelve-ounce cup of black coffee with mild strength, the Citiz can deliver something close to that experience. It achieves this in two primary ways: by brewing a lungo, which is a longer espresso extraction, or by making an Americano, which combines an espresso shot with hot water.

The Citiz does not have a large batch carafe, nor does it use gravity-fed filtration like a standard drip brewer. Instead, every cup is brewed one capsule at a time under pressure. This means the body and mouthfeel will differ from drip coffee. Espresso-based coffee tends to be richer, more concentrated, and topped with crema, while drip coffee is usually lighter and cleaner. For many drinkers, a lungo or Americano from the Citiz satisfies the craving for regular coffee, especially when served in a larger mug.

It is also worth noting that “regular coffee” means different things in different regions. In Europe, a regular coffee might be an espresso or a small black coffee. In North America, it often refers to a large mug of drip coffee. The Citiz leans toward the European tradition, but its programmable buttons and lungo capability make it adaptable to North American expectations. If you are asking “Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee?” because you want a full-sized morning mug, you can get there—you just need to know which settings and techniques to use.

How the Citiz Brews Coffee

Understanding the Citiz brewing process helps explain why its output differs from conventional coffee makers. When you insert an OriginalLine capsule and close the lever, the machine punctures the foil top of the capsule. Hot water from the thermoblock is then forced through the ground coffee inside the capsule at high pressure. The coffee flows through the spout and into your cup.

The Citiz offers two default button settings. The espresso button typically dispenses about 40 milliliters, or roughly 1.35 ounces. The lungo button dispenses about 110 milliliters, or roughly 3.7 ounces. Because both buttons use the same capsule, the lungo contains more water passing through the same amount of coffee. This produces a larger volume with a milder concentration than espresso, though it is still stronger than most drip coffee.

You can reprogram these buttons if you prefer a different volume. By holding a button down while brewing, you can set the machine to stop at your preferred amount. This flexibility is one reason the answer to “Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee?” is yes: you can program a longer pour to fill a bigger cup, within the limits of the machine’s pump and capsule design.

Espresso vs Regular Coffee: Understanding the Difference

To set realistic expectations, it helps to compare espresso, lungo, and regular drip coffee side by side. Espresso is a small, concentrated shot brewed under high pressure. It has a thick body, intense flavor, and a layer of crema on top. A typical espresso is about one ounce. Lungo, Italian for “long,” uses the same coffee grounds but extracts them with about twice the water. The result is a larger, less concentrated coffee that still retains some espresso characteristics.

Regular drip coffee, by contrast, is brewed by passing hot water through a bed of coffee grounds under gravity, not pressure. A standard cup is usually eight to twelve ounces. The extraction time is longer, the pressure is minimal, and the resulting beverage is lighter in body and lower in concentration per ounce than espresso. Because the Citiz uses pressure and sealed capsules, it cannot perfectly replicate drip coffee. However, a lungo or an Americano from the Citiz comes close enough for many daily drinkers.

Caffeine content is another point of confusion. A single espresso shot often contains less total caffeine than an eight-ounce cup of drip coffee, even though espresso is more concentrated per ounce. A lungo may have slightly more caffeine than espresso because more water extracts more compounds from the grounds. If you are switching from drip coffee to the Citiz, you may need to adjust your expectations regarding strength, volume, and mouthfeel.

Citiz Models and Coffee Sizes

Nespresso has released several versions of the Citiz over the years, and knowing which one you own affects how you make regular coffee. The standard Citiz is available in different colors and finishes, but all standard models share the same two-button interface and brewing capabilities. The Citiz & Milk includes an attached Aeroccino frother, which is useful for milk-based drinks but does not change the black coffee brewing process.

Default volumes vary slightly by region and model, but the espresso setting is generally around 40 milliliters, and the lungo setting is around 110 milliliters. Some newer Citiz models allow you to reprogram these volumes to better match your cup size. If you want a regular coffee experience, the lungo button is your starting point. For an even larger cup, you can brew a lungo and top it with hot water from a kettle, or brew an espresso and add hot water to create an Americano.

It is important to use OriginalLine capsules with the Citiz. VertuoLine capsules, which are dome-shaped and use barcode technology, are not compatible. Attempting to force the wrong capsule into the machine can damage the brewer and void your warranty. Always check the packaging to ensure you are buying OriginalLine capsules for your Citiz.

Step-by-Step: Brewing Regular Coffee with Nespresso Citiz

Making regular-style coffee with the Citiz is simple once you know which button to press and how to adjust the volume. Follow these steps to brew a satisfying cup.

1. Fill the water tank with fresh, cold water and attach it securely to the machine. Plug in the Citiz and turn it on. The buttons will blink while the machine heats up, usually for about 25 seconds. When the lights stop blinking and remain steady, the machine is ready.
2. Lift the lever on the top of the machine and insert an OriginalLine capsule. Choose a lungo capsule or a medium-roast espresso capsule if you prefer a milder flavor for a larger cup. Close the lever firmly until it locks.
3. Place a large mug or cup under the coffee spout. Preheating the cup with hot water for a minute can help maintain temperature and improve flavor.
4. Press the lungo button for a larger coffee, typically around 110 milliliters. If you want an even bigger cup, press the espresso button and then add hot water from a kettle to fill the mug. This creates an Americano-style drink that closely resembles regular coffee.
5. Remove the cup when the brewing cycle finishes. Open the lever to eject the used capsule into the internal container. Enjoy your coffee black, or add milk and sweetener to taste.
6. If the default lungo volume is too small for your mug, reprogram the button. Press and hold the lungo button while the machine dispenses coffee, then release it when the cup reaches your desired level. The Citiz will remember this setting for future lungo brews.

This process works well for morning routines and for guests who expect a full-sized cup. Remember that the Citiz brews one cup at a time, so if you are serving multiple people, you will need to repeat the cycle for each person.

Using Third-Party and Reusable Capsules

OriginalLine capsules are widely available from Nespresso and many third-party brands. Because the Citiz is an OriginalLine machine, you are not locked into Nespresso’s own capsules. Third-party roasters often sell espresso and lungo capsules compatible with the Citiz, giving you access to different blends, roast levels, and price points.

Reusable capsules are another option. These are typically stainless steel or plastic pods that you fill with your own ground coffee. After brewing, you empty the grounds, rinse the capsule, and refill it for the next use. Reusable capsules can reduce waste and lower the cost per cup, though they require more effort than disposable aluminum pods. If you use reusable capsules, make sure the grind size is appropriate for espresso-style extraction and that the capsule seals properly when the lever is closed.

Regardless of which capsules you choose, never use VertuoLine pods in a Citiz. The two systems are entirely different, and the capsules are not interchangeable. Sticking to OriginalLine-compatible products ensures your machine continues to brew regular coffee reliably.

Comparison Table: Citiz vs Other Nespresso Machines

The table below compares the Nespresso Citiz with two other popular Nespresso machines to help you understand where it fits in the lineup and how it handles regular coffee.

Feature	Nespresso Citiz	Nespresso Essenza Mini	Nespresso Vertuo Next
System	OriginalLine	OriginalLine	VertuoLine
Brew Type	Espresso and Lungo	Espresso and Lungo	Espresso and Large Coffee
Typical Cup Sizes	40 ml and 110 ml	40 ml and 110 ml	40 ml to 414 ml
Best for Regular Coffee	Lungo or Americano	Lungo or Americano	Large coffee cups
Milk Frother	Separate Aeroccino optional	Separate Aeroccino optional	Separate Aeroccino optional
Capsule Compatibility	OriginalLine only	OriginalLine only	VertuoLine only

Tips and Best Practices

Getting the best regular coffee from your Nespresso Citiz comes down to a few simple habits. These tips will help you improve flavor, consistency, and machine longevity.

• Preheat your cup before brewing. A warm mug keeps coffee at drinking temperature longer and prevents the flavor from turning flat too quickly.
• Use filtered water. The Citiz has a small water tank, and mineral buildup can affect both taste and machine performance. Filtered water also reduces the frequency of descaling.
• Choose lungo capsules for larger servings. Lungo capsules are blended for longer extraction and tend to taste better in a bigger cup than standard espresso capsules.
• Reprogram the lungo button if you prefer a bigger mug. Holding the button while brewing lets you set a custom volume that matches your favorite cup size.
• Empty the capsule container regularly. A full container can prevent the lever from closing properly, which interrupts brewing.
• Descale the machine every three months or after approximately 300 capsules, whichever comes first. Limescale buildup can slow heating and reduce pressure.
• Store capsules in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and light can degrade coffee freshness over time.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced Nespresso users sometimes make mistakes that affect coffee quality. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.

• Using the espresso button for a large cup. Pressing espresso into a twelve-ounce mug gives you a small, strong shot surrounded by empty space. Use the lungo button or make an Americano by adding hot water.
• Forgetting to reprogram the buttons. If the default volumes do not match your cup, the coffee may be too strong or too weak. Take a minute to set your preferred lungo volume.
• Using Vertuo capsules. The Citiz only accepts OriginalLine capsules. Vertuo pods will not fit and can damage the machine if forced.
• Neglecting descaling. Hard water deposits can clog the thermoblock and reduce pressure, leading to weak coffee and longer brew times. Follow the descaling schedule in your manual.
• Leaving used capsules in the machine. Always eject the capsule after brewing. Leaving it inside can affect the next brew and create odors.
• Using cold cups. Pouring hot coffee into a cold ceramic mug drops the temperature immediately. Rinse the cup with hot water first.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning keeps your Citiz brewing great-tasting coffee and extends the life of the machine. Most maintenance tasks take only a few minutes.

Daily, empty the drip tray and the used capsule container. Rinse both with warm water and wipe them dry. The drip tray can accumulate coffee drips and water, so keeping it dry prevents stains and odors. The capsule container holds about nine to eleven used capsules, so empty it before it becomes full.

Weekly, remove the water tank and wash it with mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Wipe the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the Citiz in water or place any electrical components in the dishwasher.

Every few months, descale the machine using Nespresso’s descaling solution or a compatible citric acid-based descaler. Fill the water tank with the descaling mixture, run the descaling cycle according to your model’s instructions, and then rinse the tank and run two cycles of fresh water through the machine. Descaling removes limescale that can interfere with temperature and pressure.

If you notice slower brewing, unusual noises, or weaker coffee, descaling is often the first step to take before contacting customer support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee or Only Espresso?

The Nespresso Citiz makes both espresso and longer coffee drinks. While it is built as an espresso machine, you can brew a lungo for a larger cup or prepare an Americano by adding hot water to an espresso shot. These options provide a regular coffee experience, though the texture and strength differ from traditional drip coffee.

Can I Use Regular Coffee Grounds in a Nespresso Citiz?

You can use your own coffee grounds only if you use a reusable OriginalLine capsule designed for the Citiz. You cannot pour loose grounds directly into the machine or into a standard disposable capsule. The Citiz is designed for sealed capsules, so a reusable pod is the proper way to brew with your own grounds.

What Is the Difference Between Espresso and Lungo on the Citiz?

Espresso is a short, concentrated shot of about 40 milliliters. Lungo is a longer extraction of about 110 milliliters using the same capsule. Because more water passes through the coffee, a lungo is larger and milder than espresso, making it closer to what many people consider regular coffee.

Does the Citiz Make an 8-Ounce Cup of Coffee?

Not as a single button press. The default lungo setting is around 110 milliliters, or roughly 3.7 ounces. To get an eight-ounce cup, brew a lungo and add hot water, or reprogram the lungo button to dispense a larger volume if your model supports it. An Americano made with espresso and hot water is another easy way to reach eight ounces.

Can I Make an Americano With the Nespresso Citiz?

Yes. Brew an espresso shot using the espresso button, then add hot water from a kettle or a separate hot water dispenser to fill your cup. This produces an Americano that closely resembles regular black coffee and is one of the best ways to enjoy a larger serving from the Citiz.

Which Capsules Work With the Nespresso Citiz?

The Citiz works with OriginalLine capsules from Nespresso and compatible third-party brands. It does not work with VertuoLine capsules. Reusable OriginalLine capsules are also an option if you prefer to use your own ground coffee.

Is the Nespresso Citiz Still Available?

Availability varies by country and retailer, but the Citiz remains a popular model in the OriginalLine family. If you cannot find it new, refurbished units and secondhand machines are common. Check Nespresso’s website or authorized sellers for current stock.

What Is the Difference Between Citiz and Citiz & Milk?

The standard Citiz brews espresso and lungo only. The Citiz & Milk includes an integrated Aeroccino milk frother attached to the side, allowing you to make cappuccinos and lattes without a separate appliance. The black coffee brewing performance is essentially the same on both models.

Conclusion

So, does Nespresso Citiz Make Regular Coffee? Yes, it does, provided you understand what regular coffee means in the context of an espresso machine. The Citiz is not a drip coffee maker, and it will not produce a twelve-ounce carafe at the push of a button. What it does exceptionally well is brew espresso and lungo using OriginalLine capsules, and those outputs can easily be adapted into regular-style coffee through a lungo pour, a reprogrammed button, or an Americano made with added hot water.

For anyone who wants a compact, reliable machine that handles espresso drinks and larger black coffee without taking up much counter space, the Citiz is a strong choice. By using lungo capsules, preheating your cup, descaling regularly, and avoiding common mistakes like using the wrong capsule type, you can enjoy consistently good coffee every morning. Whether you prefer a short espresso or a full mug of Americano, the Citiz delivers flexibility in a small package.