Nespresso Vertuo Plus Review

Nespresso Vertuo Plus in gray color (De'Longhi)

Our Verdict

Extremely easy to use, it brews excellent coffee and comes with an adjustable water tank with a decent capacity. Definitely one of the best capsule espresso machines.

This Nespresso Vertuo Plus review contains more than 20 hours of testing and content writing. As you read this article, you will notice that I have added original photos and videos of the machine.

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a powerful capsule espresso machine that is extremely easy to use and brews excellent coffee. However, there are some downsides that you should consider, including the price of the coffee capsules, and capsule compatibility.

In this review, I will analyze all the features of this machine, along with its manual, and some customer reviews, and I will provide you with some great alternatives in case the Vertuo Plus doesn’t satisfy your personal needs.

Let’s get started.

Overview: Nespresso Vertuo Plus Review

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus has a long list of things that make it one of the best capsule espresso machines out there.

First of all, it is extremely easy to use. It literally has 1 button on the top that you use to operate it. You don’t necessarily have to configure any settings like water volume, or temperature, everything is automated for you.

The machine has a decent water reservoir with a capacity of 40oz, and the great thing about the reservoir is not just the capacity, but the fact that it is adjustable, allowing the machine to be very versatile in terms of where you can position it.

Additionally, the machine brews really good coffee, and in my opinion, the coffee is pretty high quality considering the price of the machine. There are also a lot of blends to choose from.

However, it has a couple of downsides. I think the biggest is the price of the capsules, which can be quite considerable in the long run.

Specifications

SpecificationsVertuo Plus
Brew SizesGran Lungo (5.07oz), Coffee (7.77oz), Single Espresso (1.35oz) and Double Espresso (2.7oz)
Brew Size Volume Customization✔️
Water Tank Capacity40oz (1.1l)
Capsule CompatibilityVertuoLine
Removable Water Reservoir✔️
Removable Drip Tray✔️
Drip Tray Positions4 positions
Product Dimensions12.8″ H x  5.6″ – 9.1″ W x 14.1″ – 16.7″ D
Auto Off✔️
Complimentary Starter Set✔️
Capsule Container Capacity10 Mug capsules (Large)
Motorized Head✔️
Power Cord Length29.13″
Weight10.1lb
ColorsGray, red, white, and black
Warranty1-year warranty
5 Stars Ratio80%

Breville vs De’Longhi

Logos of Breville and De'Longhi

Although the Vertuo Plus is under the Nespresso brand, it is manufactured by two companies: Breville and De’Longhi.

There are no differences between the model manufactured by Breville and the model manufactured by De’Longhi other than the design, color availability, and price.

Throughout this article, you will be given the choice to buy the machine from both manufacturers. So if you are not sure what model to buy, just buy the one that looks more appealing to you or the one that is cheaper at the moment.

Personally, I bought the Nespresso Vertuo Plus by De’Longhi in black just because it was cheaper at that time, and I really liked the color.

Key Features

This is the most important section of my Nespresso Vertuo Plus review as this is where you’ll learn about the key features of this machine in detail. Some of these features include water reservoir, control panel, and design.

Ease of Use

Let’s explore the ease of use of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.

Control Panel

The control panel of the machine is literally just one button at the top, and this single feature makes it extremely easy to use.

Of course, the machine has several specific functions apart from brewing coffee. 

For example, you can perform a cleaning cycle, reset to factory settings, programming water volume, and more (No worries, I am going to talk about these functions later). But all of these functions can be accessed through this single button.

Adjustable Drip Tray

The adjustable drip tray makes it easy to fit pretty much any cup you want as it can be adjusted in 4 positions. It is also very easy to remove.

This drip tray or cup support will help capture the drops coming out of the machine’s spout after brewing coffee, which is great for keeping everything clean. 

The only case where you might have problems with this is when you remove the drip tray completely to fit a larger mug. I only use small-medium mugs so I haven’t had any issues so far. 

What I really love about this drip tray is how sturdy it is. It feels incredibly well-made.

Drip Tray of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus

Indicator Lights

The button of the Vertuo Plus blinks in various colors to indicate its operation.

For example, a steady green light means the machine is ready to brew, while a steady red light means there is an error with the device and it cannot function properly.

Here’s an example of the button blinking during the brewing process:

To be honest, even when the machine is extremely easy to operate, these indicator lights can be confusing if you don’t read the manual.

Fortunately, the Vertuo Plus’s user manual does an excellent job at explaining the different types of indicator lights.

Nespresso Vertuo Plus manual blinking lights summary
Source: Nespresso Vertuo Plus manual (De’Longhi)

Automatic Opening and Closing System

The automatic opening and closing system is one of the most convenient features of the Vertuo Plus, as it automatically ejects the coffee capsule you have used before.

To open the head of the machine, you just have to press the lever up, and to close it, you just have to press the lever down.

This is how it looks in action:

Between you and me, I love to show this feature to everyone who visits my home.

How to Use

Step 1: Fill the water tank

Add clean, potable water into the water reservoir until it reaches the maximum level.

Step 2: Turn the machine ON

Press the power button on the top of the machine to turn it on. You should notice the button illuminating in green, which indicates that the machine is now activated.

Step 3: Heating up

Once you’ve activated the machine, you’ll notice the green light flashing, indicating that it is heating up.

Step 4: Ready

Once the heating process is completed, a steady GREEN light will indicate that the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is ready for use.

Step 5: Prepare the cup

Before preparing your coffee, make sure that you’ve positioned a cup with sufficient capacity beneath the coffee outlet.

Step 6: Open the machine head

Locate the lever situated on the top of the machine. Gently push the lever upward. The machine head will open automatically.

Step 7: Insert the capsule

Pick a Nespresso Vertuo capsule of your preference and insert it into the cup holder, ensuring that the domed side faces downward.

Step 8: Close the machine head

Lower the machine head by pressing the lever down until it closes securely with the capsule inside.

Step 9: Start the brewing process

To begin the brewing process, simply press the button located on the top of the machine. As the machine reads the barcode, you will notice the GREEN light rotating slowly.

Step 10: Brewing phase

As the coffee is being prepared, the GREEN light will spin quickly. A stable GREEN light will indicate that the brewing is complete.

Step 11 (Optional): Stop the coffee flow

If you want to stop the coffee flow before it finishes automatically, push the button again. A steady GREEN light will indicate that the coffee brewing is complete.

Step 13: Eject the capsule

To eject the used capsule, open the machine head by pushing the lever up.

Considerations:

  • Be cautious when reaching the inside of the machine to avoid injury from sharp points or trapping your fingers.
  • Only use fresh, unused Nespresso Vertuo capsules to avoid damaging the machine.
  • Always ensure that the previous capsule has been properly ejected before inserting a fresh one.

If you want to see how this process looks in real life. Here’s a video on how to prepare coffee using the Nespresso Vertuo Plus. You can pause the video once the process is finished.

User Manual

Before brewing your first cup of coffee with the Nespresso Vertuo Plus, or if you want to descale it, you’ll need to read the manual to understand how to do these steps correctly. But how good is the manual of this machine?

In short, it is really good. The manual comes with high-quality illustrations and very detailed descriptions for pretty much everything you could do with the machine.

Nespresso Vertuo Plus manual overview
Source: Nespresso Vertuo Plus manual (De’Longhi)

Here are the links to the manual of the Vertuo Plus by Breville and De’Longhi.

Brew Sizes

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is compatible with the following capsules:

  • Coffee: Gran Lungo (5.07oz) and Coffee (7.77oz)
  • Espresso: Single (1.35oz) and Double (2.7oz)

Nespresso also offers capsules for the Alto (12oz) and Carafe (18oz) brew sizes, but the Vertuo Plus is not compatible with these. 

If you want to try these capsules, you should check the Vertuo Creatista, Vertuo Next, and Vertuo Pop machines.

Programming water volume

As you already know, the capsules compatible with the Vertuo Plus already have specific brew sizes pre-programmed. However, you can reprogram the machine to brew the volumes you want, with a few limitations of course.

  • You can reprogram the following types of capsules: Gran Lungo, Coffee, Single Espresso, and Double Espresso
  • You can reprogram the capsules within this volume range: 0.3 fl oz./10 ml to 17 fl oz./500 ml

To learn how to reprogram the water volume of your Vertuo Plus, make sure to read the official manual of the machine. You can also watch the video below.

Capsule Compatibility

The Vertuo Plus is only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo (VertuoLine) capsules.

So, if you try to use Nespresso Original capsules (OriginalLine), they will not work on the machine. 

Also, note that Keurig K-Cups are not compatible with it.

VertuoLine vs OriginalLine

What are the differences between the Nespresso Vertuo (VertuoLine) and Nespresso Original (OriginalLine) coffee capsules?

Characteristics of Vertuo capsules:

  • Vertuo capsules are designed for the Nespresso VertuoLine machines which include the Nespresso Vertuo Plus, Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe, Nespresso Vertuo Next, and more.
  • Vertuo capsules come in the following brew sizes: Espresso (1.35oz), Double Espresso (2.7oz), Gran Lungo (5.07oz), Coffee (7.77oz), Alto (12oz), and Carafe (18oz).
  • Vertuo capsules come in the following roast levels: light, medium, and dark.

Characteristics of Original capsules:

  • Original capsules are designed for the Nespresso OriginalLine machines, which include the Creatista Pro, Creatista Plus, Lattissima One, and more.
  • Original capsules come in the following brew sizes: Ristretto (0.85oz), Espresso (1.35oz), and Lungo (3.7oz)
  • Vertuo capsules come in the following roast levels: light, medium, and dark.

Reusable Capsules

If you don’t want to spend money on Nespresso capsules, you can try a reusable coffee capsule compatible with the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.

I have one of these capsules in metal, and to be honest, the flavor of the coffee brewed with this capsule is not as good as if you were using normal capsules. In my opinion, it was too watery and lacked aroma and foam.

However, if you decide to go this route, you can try testing different coffee grounds and brew sizes and see if you end up liking it.

These are my recommendations:

Water Reservoir

The water reservoir is one of the most interesting features of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus as it has decent capacity and can be adjusted.

Capacity

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus has a water tank capacity of about 40oz or 1.1l.

With this water tank capacity, you can brew:

  • 29 single espresso shots
  • 14 double espresso shots
  • 7 gran lungo cups
  • 5 standard cups

I’ve never had any problems with the capacity of the reservoir, so I think that this is enough capacity for brewing a lot of cups of coffee, even if someone pays you a visit.

Water tank of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus

Adjustability

The water reservoir on this machine is also adjustable, this simply means that you can change the position to the left, right, or back of the machine.

I have found this feature extremely useful, especially when I want to position the machine close to the wall, allowing me to remove the reservoir without any major complications.

Here’s how it works:

Brew Quality and Performance

This is probably one of the important sections in this Nespresso Vertuo Plus review – brew quality and performance. 

But first, let’s talk about the technology that allows this machine to brew great coffee every time.

What Is Centrifusion?

Centrifusion is the name Nespresso gave to the extraction process that the Vertuo machines use for brewing coffee, and in my opinion, this machine brews really good coffee.

This process uses specially designed Vertuo capsules, which contain a unique barcode that the machine reads before brewing to adjust different parameters that change depending on the capsule.

This is essential for brewing each cup of coffee in the most optimal way.

Then, as the water infuses the coffee grounds, the machine rotates the capsule inside, reaching a rotation speed of up to 7,000 RPM, which allows the machine to extract all the aroma from the coffee grounds and form a perfect crema.

Here’s a video on how this process works:

Now that you understand how the extraction process of the Vertuo Plus works, we can start talking about its speed, and performance.

Speed

Here are the results of our tests related to brewing speed.

Brew SizeTime
Single Espresso (1.35oz)59.94 seconds
Coffee (7.77oz)1 minute and 53 seconds
Note: Keep in mind that the pre-heat time is not included here.

As you can see, a single espresso shot took only 1 minute to brew. Also, while the coffee cup took almost 2 minutes, it is still pretty fast and convenient considering the effort it takes to brew.

Temperature

Brew SizeTemperature
Single Espresso (1.35oz)139.1 °F
Coffee (7.77oz)142.5 °F

Both cups of coffee are not extremely hot, so for those who like really hot coffee, this machine would not be ideal. In my opinion, this temperature is fine as I can start drinking right after the cup has been brewed.

You can watch our video review to see how we perform our tests!

Flavor

The first thing I should mention is that the Vertuo Plus brews really good coffee. All the blends I have tried are full of flavor and the crema is very smooth, but at the same time with a perfect texture.

In fact, the problem with the coffee produced by this machine is not the brewing process, but instead the blend that you try.

There are dozens of different blends to try, so, if you don’t like a particular blend, you just have to try another one.

For example, some of the blends I have personally tried are Stormio, Intenso, Altissio, and Diavolitto.

I really don’t like really strong coffee, so the Diavolitto and Altissio are too strong for my preference, which is natural because these capsules are for brewing espresso.

However, the Stormio is my favorite as this blend has the perfect balance of flavors and volume. Keep in mind that this is a capsule for brewing a standard cup of coffee (7.77oz).

In summary, you don’t have to worry about flavor or consistency, but instead, the capsule you choose.

Cleaning and Maintenance

This is probably the most boring part of my Nespresso Vertuo Plus review, but one of the most important, as you have to clean your machine frequently if you want it to perform properly for a long period of time.

General Cleaning Guidelines

These are some general cleaning and maintenance guidelines that you have to keep in mind.

  • Use gentle cleaning solutions: When it comes to cleaning your Nespresso Vertuo Plus, avoid harsh and abrasive cleaning agents. Instead, opt for mild, non-abrasive cleaning solutions to protect the appliance’s delicate components.
  • Hand wash only: While it might be tempting to throw the parts in the dishwasher, resist the urge! Your Nespresso Vertuo Plus is not dishwasher-safe. Hand wash all the removable parts with care to preserve their quality.
  • Be wary of water immersion: To prevent damage and ensure the machine’s longevity, never immerse it (or part of it) in water.
  • Show some love to the coffee outlet: Regularly clean the coffee outlet using a soft, damp cloth. This will help remove any residue, ensuring every cup of coffee tastes fresh and delicious.
  • Use clean tools: For effective cleaning, always use clean tools.
  • Disconnect before cleaning: Safety first! Before cleaning, always disconnect the appliance from the power outlet and let it cool down. This step is essential for your safety and also to prevent any accidental damage to the machine or its components.
  • Stay away from steam and pressure cleaners: As tempting as it may be to use steam or pressure cleaners, avoid them at all costs! Using these cleaning methods can cause irreversible damage to your Nespresso Vertuo Plus.
  • Don’t forget the drip tray: Periodically clean the drip tray. This simple step will keep your coffee area clean and hygienic.
  • Capsule container maintenance: Regularly empty and rinse the capsule container. This practice ensures proper disposal of used capsules and maintains a clean and odor-free environment in and around the machine.

Most of these guidelines can be found in the manual.

Predefined Cleaning Procedure

The machine has a predefined cleaning procedure that you can perform whenever you want in case you want to clean the internal components of the machine.

I personally use this special function after a long time without using the machine, and once or twice a month to make sure that the quality of my coffee is not affected by coffee build-up on the internal components of the machine.

To start the cleaning procedure, you just have to push the button 3 times within two seconds. The light will turn orange, indicating that the procedure has started.

The procedure has a few additional steps that you have to perform, but you can learn more about them by checking out the official manual.

Here’s a video that we made on this topic:

Descaling

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus, and pretty much any other Nespresso machine need to be descaled after some time in order to remove any hard deposits of calcium and lime that may build up inside the machine

Descaling your Nespresso machine is extremely important as it ensures that you get the best flavor and aroma possible when brewing coffee, and also prevents any damage to the internal components of the machine.

This process is mandatory and cannot be skipped, otherwise, your machine can stop working completely.

According to this official guide by Nespresso, it is recommended to descale your machine every 3 months or after brewing about 300 capsules, whichever comes first. 

The good thing is that the Vertuo Plus has a descaling alert (green and red steady light) that will let you know when it is time to descale it.

Additionally, you need to use the official Nespresso descaling kit, if you want to achieve the best results and avoid any damage to the machine. Solutions such as vinegar or store-bought descalers are not recommended.

To learn more about how to descale the Vertuo Plus, make sure to check the official manual or watch the video below.

That’s all I needed to mention about cleaning, now let’s move to the next section of my Vertuo Plus review Design, Dimensions, and Weight.

Design, Dimensions, and Weight

Let’s take a look at the design, dimensions, and weight of the Vertuo Plus.

Design

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a modern coffee machine that adds a touch of style to any kitchen with its sleek design, and in my personal opinion, it feels very high quality and robust.

However, it’s worth noting that the Vertuo Plus leans towards being bulky and heavier compared to some other coffee machines. This bulkiness might make it less convenient to carry around, especially if you need to move it frequently. 

Despite its size, the machine has an adjustable water tank, which is great for saving some space if you adjust it to the right position.

One notable distinction between the Vertuo Plus models offered by De’Longhi and Breville lies in the design of the machine’s head. The De’Longhi model has a squarer head design, while the Breville model has a more rounded head design.

Nespresso Vertuo Plus model comparison: Breville gray vs De'Longhi red
Comparison between the Vertuo Plus models by Breville (left) and De’Longhi (right)
Colors

The Vertuo Plus comes in a wide variety of colors, such as:

  • Gray
  • Red
  • White
  • Black

Keep in mind that the color variety depends on the manufacturer, for example, the model in red is only manufactured by De’Longhi, while the model in white, is manufactured by Breville.

Dimensions and Weight

These are the dimensions and weight of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus. Note: dimensions may vary depending on the position of the water tank.

  • Height: 12.8”
  • Width: 5.6″ – 9.1″
  • Depth: 14.1″ – 16.7″
  • Weight: 10.1lb

Pricing

Even if the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is not the most affordable coffee maker, its price is still pretty reasonable, considering that there are other options way more expensive, such as the Nespresso Creatista Pro.

When considering the price, you should keep in mind that you will often find the model by Breville and the model by De’Longhi in most online stores such as Amazon listed with different prices.

So, since the only things that differ between both models are the pricing, colors, and design, I highly suggest you to keep an eye on the price since it can change a lot, considering that the Nespresso Vertuo Plus gets on sale frequently.

In fact, at the moment of writing this Nespresso Vertuo Plus review, the model by Breville had a small discount, being about $10 cheaper than the model by De’Longhi.

Another thing that you should keep in mind when buying a Nespresso machine is that the pods are considerably expensive, especially in the long term. Actually, they are more expensive than Keurig K-Pods. 

A great way to save some money on coffee pods is using a reusable coffee pod that is compatible with the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.

Warranty

The Nespresso VertuoPlus is covered by a 1-year warranty that starts from the date of purchase. Within this period, Nespresso offers the option to repair or replace any defective unit at no cost. 

It’s important to note that the warranty excludes defects arising from negligence, accidents, and misuse.

To learn more about the warranty, please read the official manual.

Additional Features

In this section of our comprehensive Vertuo Plus review, you’ll find information on the additional features that come with the machine and add an extra layer of convenience.

Auto Off

The auto-off or energy-saving feature simply enables the machine to turn off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity. Keep in mind that the machine head should be closed for this to work.

Complimentary Starter Set

The Vertuo Plus comes with a complimentary starter set, also called complimentary welcome set. This set is just a package with some Nespresso capsules that you can use immediately.

Used Capsule Container

The used capsule container in the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a compartment designed to store your used coffee capsules.

As you use the machine to brew your coffee, the used capsule is automatically ejected from the machine and dropped into this container. 

Capsule container of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus

Power Cable Guide

Just below the machine, there’s a guide that you can use to adjust the power cable, so it is easier to manipulate depending on how your water tank is positioned.

Power cable guide of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus

Eco Friendliness / Waste

We all love the convenience of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus, but how eco-friendly are this innovative machine and the Nespresso capsules?

Recent research has revealed that approximately 39,000 capsules are produced globally every minute, with a staggering 29,000 of them ending up in landfills. 

To address this issue, Nespresso has introduced fully recyclable coffee pods made from aluminum, a material that is recyclable.

To facilitate the recycling process, Nespresso has implemented a recycling program for its customers. 

To participate, customers can request a recycling bag for free from the Nespresso website. These bags are designed to hold either 200 OriginalLine capsules or 100 VertuoLine capsules each. 

Once the bag is filled with used capsules, customers can return it at no charge by dropping it off at any UPS drop-off location.

I really like this recycling initiative by Nespresso, it makes it a more human and environmentally-conscious brand and more companies should have similar initiatives.

Pros and Cons

In this section of my Vertuo Plus review, you will find a few pros and cons of the machine.

Pros

  • Brews high-quality coffee with great aroma and flavors
  • The interface is really easy to use
  • The machine is very affordable compared to other options and it is regularly on sale
  • Lots of blends to choose from
  • It comes with several convenient features such as the automatic opening and closing system and the used capsule container

Cons

  • Coffee capsules can be very expensive over time
  • You need to buy the Nespresso descaling kit for descaling the machine properly
  • Even when the water tank is adjustable, the machine is quite bulky
  • Only works with coffee capsules compatible with VertuoLine machines

Customer Reviews

These are some positive and critical customer reviews of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus. I picked reviews that were descriptive. 

Over 80% of customers give the Nespresso Vertuo Plus 5 stars. 

Note: These reviews are from the Amazon listing: Nespresso Vertuo Plus by De’Longhi Grey.

Positive Review

“We owned a Keurig before and I am glad we made this upgrade. I am a coffee drinker and I am fine with using instant coffee throughout the day. This is good when I am craving that good coffee in the afternoon or in the evening after the end of my work day. We have stopped craving Starbucks coffee because of this.
Love the ease of operation and the size. It is much smaller than a Keurig machine and looks great in the kitchen. Also I love that you can recycle the coffee pods by sending the used coffee pods to Nespresso in a postage paid envelope. I love this easy method. With Keurig, although you get recyclable pods, you have to separate the coffee, throw it in the regular trash and then dispose the remaining pack in the recycling bin. With this, you dump all the used pods in the postage paid envelope, pack it once its full and drop it at a nearby UPS.
The only downside if the cost of the pods. It comes to approximately a dollar to $1.5 per cup depending on the coffee and the deals/coupons you get. But this is gourmet coffee and something I drink only once a day (twice if I had a long day). For regular coffee, the instant coffee works for me.
But overall worth a buy if you are a coffee lover and want to upgrade your game.”

You can read more reviews of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus on Amazon.

Critical Review

“I should have done more research before my purchase. This machine is quick and easy to make a good cup of coffee. I knew I would have to use only nespresso vertuoplus espresso pods and I was fine with that but I did not realize I can’t just pick them up at the grocery store or anything. They are hard to find and so you have to stay on top of pre-ordering them and there is not much of a selection.”

You can read more reviews of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus on Amazon.

Alternatives

These are some great alternatives to the Nespresso Vertuo Plus. I’m going to provide you with some alternatives from other brands, and also some alternatives from Nespresso.

Compared to Other Nespresso Machines

These are some alternatives from Nespresso.

Vertuo

Nespresso Vertuo (De'Longhi)
  • Key Feature: Retro-modern design, large water reservoir (De’Longhi model)
  • Brew Sizes: Gran Lungo (5.07oz), Coffee (7.77oz), Single Espresso (1.35oz), and Double Espresso (2.7oz)
  • Water Reservoir: 40oz, and 54oz
  • Material: Plastic, metal
  • Brand: Nespresso

The Nespresso Vertuo features a retro-modern aesthetic, and it comes in two variations, one designed by Breville with a 40oz water reservoir, and the other by De’Longhi with a larger 54oz reservoir. 

Despite the different sizes, both versions offer nearly identical features as the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.

The model by De’Longhi is a good option if you like the retro-modern design, 54oz water tank capacity and you don’t like the automatic opening and closing system of the vertuo plus.

Vertuo Next

Nespresso Vertuo Next (Breville)
  • Key Feature: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatibility
  • Brew Sizes: Gran Lungo (5.07oz), Coffee (7.77oz), Alto (12oz), Carafe (18oz), Single Espresso (1.35oz), and Double Espresso (2.7oz)
  • Water Reservoir: 37oz
  • Material: Plastic
  • Brand: Nespresso

The Nespresso Vertuo Next is a sleek and compact coffee machine, measuring only 5.5 inches in width. Despite its small size, it boasts a generous 37oz water tank, ensuring you have enough water for multiple brews without constant refilling.

This machine is not only practical but also environmentally conscious. Crafted from 40% recycled plastic, it combines sustainability with style seamlessly.

One of its standout features is the ability to connect to your phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. By using the Nespresso app, you can access a range of useful functions.

These include updating the machine’s software, performing a factory reset, checking water status, and more.

The Vertuo Next offers the same brew sizes as the Vertuo Plus, in addition to two extra options, these being Alto (12oz) and Carafe (18oz).

In summary, the Vertuo Next is ideal if you want the extra brew sizes, as well as the connectivity features.

Vertuo Plus Deluxe

Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe (Breville)
  • Key Feature: Extra-large water reservoir
  • Brew Sizes: Gran Lungo (5.07oz), Coffee (7.77oz), Single Espresso (1.35oz), and Double Espresso (2.7oz)
  • Water Reservoir: 60oz
  • Material: Plastic
  • Brand: Nespresso

The only notable differences between the Nespresso Vertuo Plus and Vertuo Plus deluxe are the water tank capacity and color options.

The Vertuo Plus comes with a 60oz water reservoir, and some of the new colors are silver and titan.

If you want a larger water reservoir, this is the ideal option for you.

Creatista Pro

Nespresso Creatista Pro
  • Key Feature: Digital touch screen
  • Brew Sizes: Ristretto, Espresso, Lungo, Caffe Latte, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato
  • Water Reservoir: 68oz
  • Material: Brushed stainless steel
  • Brand: Nespresso

The Nespresso Creatista Pro is a premium espresso machine designed for coffee enthusiasts who crave high-quality brews and luxurious features. Its sleek, strong design boasts a polished brushed stainless steel surface.

Equipped with an electronic recipe maker and a user-friendly digital touch screen, this machine offers a seamless brewing experience. It has an integrated steam wand, which can produce hot water and frothed milk for crafting beautiful latte art.

This premium machine is an excellent choice if you have a taste for espresso-based beverages like cappuccinos and lattes. Keep in mind that it operates with Nespresso’s OriginalLine pods.

While it comes with a (considerably) higher price tag compared to the Vertuo Plus, the Creatista Pro’s exceptional capabilities and elegant design make it well worth the investment for those seeking top-tier espresso drinks.

If you’re serious about your coffee and want a machine that excels at crafting espresso-based drinks, the Nespresso Creatista Pro is the ideal choice.

Other Alternatives

These are some alternatives to the Vertuo Plus from other brands such as Keurig and Ninja.

Keurig K-Cafe

Keurig K-Cafe
  • Key Feature: Integrated milk frother
  • Brew Sizes: 6oz, 8oz, 10oz, and 12oz
  • Water Reservoir: 60oz
  • Material: Plastic
  • Brand: Keurig

The Keurig K-Cafe is a versatile single-serve coffee, latte, and cappuccino maker.

This machine uses Keurig K-Cup pods to create a variety of beverages with ease. With four brew size options, 6oz, 8oz, 10oz, and 12oz, you can customize your drink to suit your preferences.

One of the standout features of the Keurig K Cafe is its integrated dishwasher safe frother. This innovative addition allows you to create creamy and frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos.

Equipped with a generous 60oz water reservoir, the Keurig K Cafe reduces the need for frequent refills, making it convenient for busy mornings or when entertaining guests. 

This is a good option in case you are not looking for a machine that can brew standard coffee, but want some nice features such as the integrated milk frother.

Keurig K-Slim

Keurig K-Slim
  • Key Feature: MultiStream Technology
  • Brew Sizes: 8oz, 10oz and 12oz
  • Water Reservoir: 46oz
  • Material: Plastic
  • Brand: Keurig

Measuring less than 5 inches wide, the Keurig K-Slim seamlessly integrates into any kitchen setup.

It is equipped with a removable 46oz water reservoir, and it has three brew sizes to choose from, 8oz, 10oz, or 12oz. cups.

In essence, the Keurig K-Slim is a space-saving, versatile, and cost-effective solution for single-serve coffee lovers.

Ninja DualBrew Pro

Ninja DualBrew Pro
  • Key Feature: Built-In, fold-away frother
  • Brew Sizes: 6oz, 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, and 12-cup carafe
  • Water Reservoir: 60oz
  • Material: Plastic
  • Brand: Ninja

This advanced coffee maker offers a unique experience whether you prefer pods or ground coffee.

Choose from a range of brew sizes, including 6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces when using pods, and from a small cup to a full carafe when brewing from coffee grounds. No matter your preference, this machine has you covered.

It has four distinct brew styles: classic, rich, over-ice, and specialty coffee. Additionally, it comes with a built-in, fold-away frother allowing you to craft creamy lattes or cappuccinos.

Equipped with a generous 60-ounce multi-position, removable water reservoir, the Ninja DualBrew Pro eliminates the hassle of constant refilling, ensuring uninterrupted coffee enjoyment.

With its variety of brew sizes, large water reservoir, and integrated milk frother, this machine is the ultimate choice when it comes to non-espresso coffee machines.

Buying Guide: Should You Buy the Vertuo Plus?

Use this section of our Vertuo Plus review to decide whether to buy this machine or not.

Buy the Nespresso Vertuo Plus If…

  • You want the convenience of a pod espresso machine
  • You are looking for a wide variety of blends to try
  • You want an extremely easy to use machine
  • You love seeing the automatic opening and closing system of the Vertuo Plus in action
  • You would like to be part of Nespresso’s recycling program
  • You have extra space in your kitchen for a medium-large espresso machine
  • You are willing to buy coffee capsules through online stores such as Amazon or Nespresso

Don’t Buy the Nespresso Vertuo Plus If…

  • You don’t want to spend a considerable amount of money on coffee capsules (at least around $1 per capsule)
  • You don’t want to buy Nespresso descaling kits every few months to descale the machine 
  • You don’t have the space in your kitchen for the Vertuo Plus
  • You do not want to limit yourself to using VertuoLine coffee capsules only
  • You are looking for a machine that can brew true espresso

About Nespresso

Nespresso logo

Nestlé Nespresso S.A., widely recognized by its trading name Nespresso, stands as a prominent operating division within the esteemed Nestlé Group, headquartered in the city of Lausanne, Switzerland. 

Since its inception in 1986, Nespresso’s mission has been to empower everyone to create the perfect cup of espresso without the need for a barista.

Nespresso has become a formidable global brand that projects its influence through an impressive network of 81 countries, transcending geographical borders to help thousands of people make a delicious cup of coffee at home or at the office.

Nespresso has also dedicated its efforts to fostering sustainability. In fact, by 2017, the company had established capsule-collection systems across 36 nations.

France and Switzerland have become some of the largest buyers of Nespresso, so it is very easy to find recycling facilities in these countries.

The Bottom Line: Vertuo Plus Review

The Vertuo Plus is by far one of Nespresso’s best and most affordable espresso machines.

What I liked most about this machine is how easy it is to use, and the quality of the coffee it produces. In fact, it is such good coffee that I can’t imagine a capsule machine making better coffee. Nespresso has done a great job with this product.

However, the VertuoPlus may not be for everyone, mainly because the capsules are really expensive compared to other coffee brewing methods. 

Also, I don’t really like the idea of buying descaling kits every few months, and, to be honest, descaling the machine is quite a chore.

F.A.Q – Nespresso Vertuo Plus Review

Learn more about the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.

Does the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Know What Cup Size to Make?

The Nespresso VertuoPlus uses a unique barcode system on each coffee capsule’s rim, which the machine scans to determine the appropriate brewing parameters, including the cup size and brewing time.

Does The Nespresso Vertuo Plus Make Lattes?

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus cannot make lattes by itself. If you want to make a latte you have to buy a milk frother such as the Nespresso Aeroccino.

Can I Run Vertuo Pods Twice?

It is possible to use Vertuo pods twice, but it’s important to note that the resulting second shot of espresso will be noticeably weaker in flavor and intensity compared to the first one.

The brewing process of the Nespresso Vertuo system is optimized for a single use of each coffee capsule, ensuring that the flavors, aromas, and characteristics of the coffee are fully extracted during the initial brewing.

How Often Should I Run the Cleaning Cycle?

Nespresso recommends descaling your Vertuo Plus coffee machine every 3 months or after you’ve brewed 300 capsules, whichever comes first.

By adhering to Nespresso’s descaling guidelines, you’ll help maintain the quality of your coffee and extend the life of your Vertuo Plus machine. 

Regular descaling is a crucial step in keeping your coffee machine in top condition and ensuring that you continue to enjoy the best possible coffee experience with each cup you brew.

Leandro Santorsola
Leandro Santorsola

Leandro is the founder of The Coffee Arsenal. His favorite relaxation method is to drink a Cafe Latte in the afternoons.