DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) Review: Introduction
This comprehensive DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) review is based on an analysis of 324 verified customer experiences, revealing what real users think after years of daily use. With an impressive average rating of 4.2/5 stars, this compact capsule machine has been a mainstay in kitchens worldwide for over a decade, promising cafe-quality coffee at home. This deep dive into the data explores whether the Citiz lives up to the hype, where it excels, and where some users have faced frustrations.
The rating distribution tells an initial story: a strong majority of 181 users (over 55%) awarded a perfect 5-star score, praising its reliability and quality. Another 82 users (25%) gave it 4 stars, often citing minor quibbles. The critical reviews (3 stars and below) make up about 19% of the feedback, with a recurring theme centered on one particular component. This review synthesizes all perspectives to give you a balanced, data-driven verdict on this popular machine.
Key Features of DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black)
The DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE is a sleek, vertically designed pod machine known for its compact footprint and efficient operation. Here are its core specifications and features as highlighted by users:
- 19-Bar High Pressure Pump: The professional-grade pressure system is credited for producing a rich crema, a point frequently mentioned by satisfied customers.
- Dual Programmable Buttons: One-touch buttons for Espresso (40ml) and Lungo (110ml), with the ability to customize the volume to your cup size.
- Integrated Aeroccino Milk Frother (on selected models like EN267BAE): An attached, standalone frother that can create hot or cold froth for cappuccinos and lattes.
- 1-Liter Removable Water Tank: A decent capacity for multiple drinks before refilling.
- Used Capsule Container: Holds up to 10-11 used pods, reducing daily cleanup.
- Fast Heat-Up Time: Ready to brew in approximately 25 seconds.
- Energy-Saving Auto Shut-Off: Powers down after 9 minutes of inactivity.
- Sleek, Compact Design: Its vertical silhouette takes up minimal counter space, a major plus for many reviewers.
It’s important to note that the “Black” in DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) refers to its classic, sleek finish, but the machine is also available in other colors like cream, red, and chrome.
DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) review: Pros & Cons
Based on hundreds of customer reviews, here are the most frequently cited advantages and drawbacks of the Citiz machine.
Pros: What Users Love
- Exceptional Reliability & Longevity: This is the standout feature. Countless reviews mention machines lasting 5, 8, 10, and even 12+ years with daily use. “Bought mine in 2012 still going strong,” said one 2025 reviewer. Another noted, “I got given my first Nespresso machine in 2009 and it finally brewed it’s finally coffee in May 2021. 12 years… it’s phenomenal.”
- Consistent, High-Quality Coffee: Users consistently praise the “cafe-style” taste, perfect crema, and the ability to get a great cup every time with no barista skills required. “Great coffee if you chose the right pods… Taste as good as cafe barista style coffee,” one user reported.
- Extremely Easy to Use and Clean: The two-button operation (espresso/lungo) is hailed as foolproof. The cleaning process is described as a “breeze,” involving mainly emptying the used capsule container and descaling annually.
- Compact and Stylish Design: Its slim profile is a major win for small kitchens. “Doesn’t take up too much room on my bench top,” and “looks very classy in the kitchen” are common remarks.
- Cost-Effective vs. Cafe Coffee: Many users highlight the machine as a money-saver. “Saved me money as well from buying coffee at the cafe,” and “beats the price of coffees out” are frequent sentiments.
Cons: The Common Criticisms
- The Aeroccino Milk Frother is Problematic: This is, by far, the most significant and consistent complaint. Issues include milk burning and sticking to the bottom (“brown burn stain”), the frother failing to heat (“stopped heating the milk”), being difficult to clean properly, and having a small capacity that can easily overflow.
- Coffee Temperature Could Be Hotter: A notable subset of users, especially those who prefer very hot drinks, find the coffee and frothed milk output to be “lukewarm” or not hot enough, sometimes requiring a microwave finish.
- Can Be Noisy and Vibrate: Several reviews mention the machine is louder than expected or vibrates noticeably during operation. “The machine was a little louder than my last one,” and one 2-star review called it “so noisy and vibrates so badly.”
- Ongoing Cost of Pods: While cheaper than cafes, some users note the expense of genuine Nespresso capsules adds up, especially for households with multiple daily drinkers.
- Occasional Mechanical Faults: A small percentage of users report leaks, faulty pumps, or machines that stop working entirely, sometimes just outside the warranty period, leading to frustrating repair experiences.
Customer Experience Analysis
Delving deeper into the customer journey reveals why the DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) inspires such loyalty and, in some cases, frustration.
“We have had our Citz and Milk for about 18 months now. It is really easy to use. Having to buy the capsules online is a bit annoying, but it does mean the machine is easy to keep clean. Our kids love to use the milk frother to make hot chocolate.”
The Setup & Daily Use: Customers overwhelmingly find the setup straightforward. The daily ritual is praised for its simplicity: fill the tank, insert a pod, press a button, and froth milk simultaneously. The ability to accommodate taller mugs and travel cups under the spout is a frequently appreciated practical detail.
Maintenance & Durability: The long-term ownership experience is where the Citiz truly shines for most. The need for descaling (about once a year, depending on water hardness) is well-understood. The staggering number of reviews citing 5+ years of trouble-free service is a powerful testament to its build quality. This durability forms the core of its value proposition.
Customer Service & Warranty: Experiences with Nespresso/DeLonghi customer service are mixed. Many 5-star reviewers praise prompt and helpful service, with stories of free frother replacements during warranty. However, a significant number of critical reviews (especially 1- and 2-star) describe poor service, denials of warranty claims for common issues like the burnt frother, and expensive out-of-warranty repair costs. “Nespresso wants you to jump thru hoops,” complained one user about a cashback promotion.
DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) Performance Review
How does the machine perform where it matters most? The user data provides clear answers.
Brew Quality & Consistency: Performance here is rated exceptionally high. The 19-bar pump consistently delivers coffee with a good crema. The variety available through Nespresso’s own pods and third-party compatible pods (like L’Or from supermarkets) is seen as a major plus, allowing users to find their perfect strength and flavor profile. “Makes very consistent coffee,” and “always very consistent” are phrases that appear repeatedly.
Speed & Efficiency: The fast heat-up time (25 seconds) and quick brew cycle mean a coffee can be ready in under a minute. This speed is a fundamental part of its appeal for morning routines. “Quick and easy to make coffee all morning,” as one long-term owner put it.
Milk Frothing Performance: This is the performance Achilles’ heel. When working correctly, the Aeroccino is praised for making “perfectly frothy milk” and even offering a cold froth setting for iced drinks. However, the widespread reports of burning, premature failure, and inadequate heating temperature significantly drag down its performance score. It’s clear the frother’s design or quality control is not on par with the longevity of the main brewing unit.
Noise Level: While subjective, enough users mention noticeable noise and vibration to consider it a valid performance note for those sensitive to sound in quiet households.
Value for Money Assessment
Is the DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) a good investment? The answer depends heavily on your use case and priorities.
For the Solo Drinker or Couple: It represents outstanding value. The initial investment (often found on sale or with cashback offers) is amortized over many years of reliable service. The per-cup cost, while higher than ground coffee, is significantly lower than daily cafe purchases. The convenience and consistency are worth the premium for most users in this category.
For High-Volume Households or Offices: Value decreases. The 1-liter water tank and 10-pod container require frequent refilling and emptying. The cost of pods becomes more substantial. For an office setting, a machine with a larger tank and bin would be more practical.
The Frother Factor: If you primarily drink black coffee or are willing to purchase a separate, more reliable milk frother, the value proposition of the Citiz remains very high. If your heart is set on perfect, hassle-free milk-based drinks from an integrated system, the value is compromised by the frother’s unreliable track record.
Considering that 263 out of 324 reviewers (81%) gave it 4 or 5 stars, the vast majority clearly believe they received good or excellent value for their money.
Alternatives to DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black)
If the cons give you pause, consider these alternatives mentioned by reviewers or within the same ecosystem:
- Nespresso Vertuo Line: If you prefer larger cup sizes (mug-sized coffee) and a different pod system. However, pods are more expensive and less widely available from third parties.
- Citiz Model WITHOUT Milk Frother: Several savvy reviewers recommended buying the standalone Citiz machine and pairing it with a separate, higher-quality milk frother. This avoids the integrated frother’s issues and can sometimes be more cost-effective. Browse standalone milk frothers on Amazon.
- Other Nespresso OriginalLine Machines: Machines like the Inissia or Pixie offer similar brew quality in a smaller, often cheaper package, though they may feel less robust. The Lattissima series offers automated milk systems but at a much higher price point and with more complex cleaning.
- Different Pod Systems: Explore machines from brands like L’Or Barista or Dolce Gusto if you want to explore different pod flavors and styles. Compare other pod coffee machines on Amazon.
For more information on the Nespresso system and pod recycling, visit the official Nespresso website.
DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) review: Final Verdict
After analyzing 324 real-world experiences, the conclusion on the DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) is clear: it is an exceptionally reliable, easy-to-use, and compact capsule brewer let down by a notoriously problematic integrated milk frother.
For anyone seeking a no-fuss machine that delivers consistent, high-quality espresso and lungo for years—even a decade or more—the Citiz is a top-tier contender. Its durability is legendary, its operation is simple, and it saves money versus cafe purchases. The sleek design is a bonus.
However, if your daily drink is a latte or cappuccino, you must approach with caution. The Aeroccino frother has a high probability of developing issues like burning, failing to heat, or requiring meticulous cleaning to avoid problems. Many disappointed reviewers felt the frother’s performance did not match the quality of the main machine.
Final Recommendation:
- BUY the DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) if: You primarily drink black coffee, value unparalleled reliability and simplicity, and have a small kitchen. Consider the model without the attached frother for the best experience.
- RECONSIDER if: Milk-based drinks are your staple and you want a fully integrated, hassle-free system. The frother’s flaws may lead to frustration.
Ultimately, its stellar 4.2/5 average rating from hundreds of users is well-earned for its core brewing function. Just be strategic about how you handle the milk. For the best price and availability, check the latest deals on DeLonghi Nespresso Citiz EN267BAE (Black) on Amazon.