Being initially opposed Nespresso and its closed system, I fell for ease of use. Very nice machine, compact and easy to use, only 3 buttons. The heating time is awesome! When I turn it on, the time to choose my cap, insert, put a cup underneath and it's ready. The sides are grooved aluminum handle and which for opening and closing the capsule orifice is metal. It works with other brands of capsules, but so far the taste of Nespresso is better, the others have a coffee taste burned, not very subtle. It has become a real pleasure to be a small cafe in the office, careful, it's addictive capsule system, all colors and all tastes like candy ;-) I also have automatic espresso machine; the big difference is maintained, that's why I took a Nespresso for the office.