Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus

This is our Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus comparison guide.

The team of The Coffee Arsenal has invested many hours in writing the best comparison review between these two espresso machines.

After an in-depth analysis, we have concluded that the Nespresso VertuoPlus is the best option due to its convenient features, however, you should read our full review to learn which one adjusts better to your personal needs.

In this guide, we will talk about key features, pros and cons, customer reviews, and technical specifications.

Keep reading to learn more.

Overview: Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus

The Nespresso Vertuo (by Breville) is a compact coffee maker that comes with a removable 40oz water reservoir, a powerful heating element, and 4 brew sizes, 1.35oz, 2.7oz, 5oz, and 8oz.

The Nespresso Vertuo model by De’Longhi comes with all the features the Vertuo by Breville has plus a 54oz water reservoir.

On the other hand, the Nespresso VertuoPlus (Breville, De’Longhi) is a modern espresso machine that comes with a removable and adjustable 40oz water reservoir, and it can brew 4 brew sizes, 1.35oz, 2.7oz, 5oz, and 8oz.

Its key feature is its automatic opening and closing system, which is way more user-friendly than its competitor.

We consider the VertuoPlus to be the best option due to its convenient features, however, the Nespresso Vertuo by De’Longhi is a good choice if you are looking for an extra large water reservoir.

Comparison Table

Specifications	Nespresso Vertuo	Nespresso VertuoPlus
Brew Sizes	1.35oz, 2.7oz, 5oz, 8oz	1.35oz, 2.7oz, 5oz, 8oz
Water Tank Capacity	40oz (Breville), 54oz (De’Longhi)	40oz
Removable Water Reservoir	✔️	✔️
Removable Drip Tray	✔️	✔️
Cup Support	2 positions	4 positions
Product Dimensions	11.9″ H x 8.3″ W x 11.9″ D (Breville) / 12.2″ H x 9″ W x 12.3″ D (De’Longhi)	12.8″ H x 9.1″ W x 13.2″ D (Breville) / 12.8″ H x 9.1″ W x 13.2″ D (De’Longhi)
Weight	11lbs	10.1lbs
Colors	Black (De’Longhi and Breville), Graphite Metal (De’Longhi), Red (De’Longhi and Breville), Silver (De’Longhi), Titan (De’Longhi and Breville), Chrome (Breville), Matte Black (Breville)	Black (De’Longhi and Breville), Gray (De’Longhi and Breville), Black Matte (De’Longhi), Matte Black (De’Longhi), Ink Black (De’Longhi and Breville), Red (De’Longhi), Silver (Breville), White (Breville), Titan (Breville)
Centrifusion Technology	✔️	✔️
Button Indicators	✔️	✔️
Auto-Off	✔️	✔️
Motorized Head	❌	✔️
Complimentary Starter Set	✔️	✔️
Capsule Container Capacity	13 Mug capsules (Large)	10 Mug capsules (Large)
Power	1,350 Watt	1300 Watt
Power Cord Lenght	33.46”	29.13″

Key Features: Nespresso VertuoPlus vs Vertuo

Let’s compare the key features of the Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus. We will go through water reservoir, brew sizes, performance, and more.

Brew Sizes

Having several options to choose from allows you to adjust the strength and size of your coffee depending on your mood. Sometimes we want a single shot of espresso to get a boost of energy and sometimes we want a normal cup of coffee just to relax.

Both the Nespresso Vertuo and VertuoPlus come with the following brew sizes:

• Coffee: Gran Lungo (5oz) and Coffee (8oz)
• Espresso: Single (1.35 oz) and Double (2.7 oz)

For most people, these 4 brew sizes are more than enough to cover their needs.

Since they both have exactly the same brew sizes, they are matched in this aspect.

Water Reservoir

The water reservoir is a huge factor to think about when choosing your perfect espresso machine, in this case, the ones included in these machines are big, so they are ideal for families or roommates who brew several cups of coffee in a row.

The Vertuo by Breville comes with a large removable 40oz water tank, with this tank you can brew up to 28 single shots of espresso or 5 mug-size cups of coffee.

On the other hand, the Vertuo by De’Longhi comes with a large 54oz water tank. With this water tank you can brew up to 40 single shots of espresso or 6 mug-size cups of coffee.

The VertuoPlus also comes with a large removable 40oz water reservoir (it can brew the same amount as the Vertuo by Breville), however, the major difference between this and the other models is that the one in the VertuoPlus is adjustable.

Who has the best water reservoir? We think that the VertuoPlus is a good option since its water tank is adjustable, which adds more convenience to this coffee maker.

However, the extra-large water tank in the Vertuo by De’Longhi should be considered too. That’s why each model is ideal for different types of people.

Note: If you liked the VertuoPlus, but the water tank is holding you back, you can check out the VertuoPlus Deluxe (Breville, De’Longhi), which has exactly the same features as the VertuoPlus but with a large 60oz water reservoir.

Ease of Use

In terms of ease of use, the process for making coffee on both machines is exactly the same.

First, you need to fill the water tank with fresh water, turn the machine on by pressing the power button (also called coffee button), and wait for the machine to heat up, this will take around 40 seconds.

Now, when the indicator light becomes steady, the machine is ready to use.

Now, open the machine’s head, insert a capsule, close the head, and press the coffee button. Now you just need to wait for the machine to finish the process.

Finally, just open the head again and the coffee capsule will be automatically ejected into the capsule container.

That’s all! Easy right?

Watch the video below to see exactly how this process works for the Vertuo:

Or, you can watch the following video to see the process for the VertuoPlus:

Also, you check out their official manuals:

• Nespresso Vertuo Manual
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Manual

Now, let’s talk about some specific features of these machines that enhance their ease of use.

Indicator Lights

As previously mentioned, these machines have a light around the power button, this light indicates what is happening with the machine, for example, it indicates when the machine is heating up, or when there is a problem in the coffee preparation procedure.

Automatic Opening and Closing System

The Nespresso VertuoPlus comes with an automatic opening and closing system, which means that the head of the machine is opened automatically when touching the front lid.

This feature is not available in the Nespresso Vertuo since you have to open it manually.

Brew Quality and Performance

We can’t continue our Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus review without talking about brew quality and performance.

First of all, we will introduce you to the technology that the Vertuo machines use to brew excellent coffee, the Centrifusion Technology.

What is Centrifusion Technology?

Nespresso centrifusion technology is an innovative system designed especially for the Nespresso Vertuo machines. In short, this technology has been designed to improve the coffee brewed by these machines. 

This new system simply adjusts the brewing parameters of the machine for each specific coffee capsule.

As a result, the machine produces better coffee and better crema.

To learn more about this technology watch the video below from the official Nespresso YouTube channel.

Speed

Both machines take less than 2 minutes to brew coffee, however, the Vertuo is a little bit faster than the VertuoPlus, but why?

The Nespresso Vertuo comes with a 1350W heating element and it takes around 15 seconds to heat up.

On the other hand, the Nespresso VertuoPlus has a 1300W heating element, and it takes around 20 seconds to heat up.

Knowing that the Vertuo is 5 seconds faster than the VertuoPlus.

Temperature

We’ve tested both machines by ourselves and we think that the coffee is hot enough to take a sip without burning your tongue.

For most people, this temperature is enough, however, for people who like their coffee really hot they might think that the coffee brewed by these machines is not hot enough.

Flavor

Now, talking about the flavor, this depends on several factors.

The most important factor is the coffee capsule you use, the taste will be completely different depending on the blend and brew size you use.

In general, the coffee prepared by both machines is really good, however, the key here is to find your ideal blend, so you will have to try a lot in order to find a blend that you like.

Note: If you want a little more flavor, we recommend you try the Aeroccino 3 milk frother, we guarantee you will discover a whole new world of caffeinated beverages with this product.

Which Espresso Machine Prepares the Best Coffee?

In our opinion, both machines brew excellent coffee, the major difference is the Vertuo being a little bit faster, but to be honest the difference is almost negligible.

Capsule Compatibility

Both the Nespresso Vertuo and VertuoPlus are only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules.

You can also find reusable coffee capsules that are compatible with Nespresso Vertuo and they will work perfectly fine.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning and maintenance on both espresso makers are really simple. You should keep in mind 3 main things to keep these machines working smoothly.

1. Wipe the exterior with a damp soapy non-abrasive cloth. You can rinse the water reservoir and drip tray in the sink since they are removable.
2. Run a cleaning brew once in a while (will depend on the use)
3. Descale your machine every 3 months or 300 capsules (whichever comes first)

You can consult the manuals of both machines to learn more about cleaning, and you can also watch the video below on how to perform the descaling process.

Design, Dimensions, and Weight

Let’s quickly talk about the differences in design, dimensions, and weight between these machines.

Design

The major differences in design between the VertuoPlus vs Vertuo is the water tank and capsule container location.

The water tank on the Vertuo is located on one of its sides (left side if seen from the front), and its capsule container is located on the other side (right side if seen from the front).

The water tank on the VertuoPlus is located on its back, however, as we said earlier you can adjust it anywhere around the machine, but not on the front of the machine. Its capsule container is in the back, just before the water container.

Now, before moving forward, you have to understand that you will find two separate models of the Vertuo and VertuoPlus.

This is because the manufacturers that build Nespresso machines are Breville and De’Longhi.

The Vertuo and VertuoPlus models from Breville have rounded borders, while De’Longhi models have squared borders.

Dimensions and Weight

Nespresso Vertuo dimensions and weight:

• By Breville:
  • Height: 11.9”
  • Width: 8.3”
  • Depth: 11.9”
  • Weight: 11lbs

• By De’Longhi:
  • Height: 12.2”
  • Width: 9.0”
  • Depth: 12.3”
  • Weight: 11lbs

Nespresso VertuoPlus dimensions and weight:

• By Breville:
  • Height: 12.8″
  • Width: 9.1″
  • Depth: 13.2″
  • Weight: 10.1lbs

• By De’Longhi:
  • Height: 12.8″
  • Width: 9.1″
  • Depth: 13.2″
  • Weight: 10.1lbs

Power Cord

• Nespresso Vertuo: 33.4”
• Nespresso VertuoPlus: 29.1”

Cup Support

Both coffee makers come with an adjustable cup support, so you can brew coffee directly into espresso shots, mugs, and travel mugs.

Which One Has the Best Design and Dimensions?

Both machines are compact, but there are a couple of differences to keep in mind:

The Vertuo is a little heavier and its cable is about 4 inches longer.

However, it should be noted that the water tank of the VertuoPlus is adjustable, so the depth and width may vary depending on the location of the water tank.

After testing the VertuoPlus we realized that its capsule container is in a slightly awkward position if placed in a tight spot.

Now, as to whether to choose the Breville or De’Longhi model, it’s a matter of personal preferences.

Additional features

When comparing the VertuoPlus vs Vertuo we found some extra features that are worth talking about.

Auto Off

Both machines turn off automatically after 9 minutes of non-use.

Complementary Starter Set

Both machines come with a Complimentary Starter Set, this is basically a small box with a few Nespresso capsules that you can try.

Used Capsules Container

Both machines come with a capsule container, this is where the used capsules will be automatically deposited once the machine has finished brewing and you open it.

How many capsules can each container hold?

• Nespresso Vertuo: 13 Mug capsules (Large)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus: 10 Mug capsules (Large)

Which One Has The Best Additional Features?

The only difference is that the Vertuo can hold more used capsules in its container.

Pros and Cons

These are the pros and cons of the Nespresso Vertuo and VertuoPlus.

Nespresso Vertuo

Pros and cons of the Nespresso Vertuo.

Pros

• Warms up in 15 seconds
• Easy to access capsule container
• 33.4” power cord

Cons

• Requires manual effort to open its head
• Its water tank is not adjustable

Nespresso VertuoPlus

Pros and cons of the Nespresso VertuoPlus.

Pros

• Adjustable water tank
• Automatic opening and closing system

Cons

• Its capsule container may be difficult to access if the machine is placed in a narrow location
• Its capsule container can only hold 10 mug capsules (Large)

Customer Reviews

In order to make a valid comparison between the Nespresso VertuoPlus vs Vertuo, we had to look for some opinions of people who have purchased these machines.

Nespresso Vertuo Customer Reviews

“I’ve had an original line nespresso machine for a while which I love. Bought this one because my housemate with her super fancy coffee machine is moving out, and my partner only drinks black coffee.

Nespresso recycles their pods in-house, and will give you free bags with pre-paid shipping labels attached so you can mail the used pods back to them. Please do this, it is very easy. I suspect if you’re willing to cut the pods open, compost the coffee and then wash the pods, you can recycle them as normal — but at least just mail them away!

Love: no mess, nothing to clean up, easy to make in the morning when you are brain dead. Coffee comes out at a hot but not scalding temperature, which is awesome if you like black coffee. If you tend to kind of let your coffee sit in the morning until it’s drinkable, this will get cold faster. Personally I don’t mind too much, I just brew it in a small thermos anyway. Nespresso coffee tastes highly above average for something you can make without thinking. Far superior to Keurig. Obviously, this isn’t for you fancy pour-over folks. This machine heats up much faster than the original nespresso machines do (though it takes a touch longer to make the coffee). Also when you open the machine after you’ve used a pod, the used pod leaps — literally jumps — to the back and tumbles into the pod container on the right. Hilarious.

Dislike: it’s kind of big. It looks like an Appliance, capital A. The pods are big and take space to store, and are less attractive than the original line pods, IMO. Also, if you buy multiple sizes of pods and store them together, you can be in for an overflowing surprise in the morning when you try to brew an alto in your regular coffee cup.

Also, the frother that comes with this machine burns my milk. Which is super weird, because the frother I have from the previous machine is the same Aeroccino 3 or whatever, and never burns. So what’s up with that.

Verdict: if it were just me, I’d return this and keep the tiny original machine. But if you need something that resembles American style black coffee in the nespresso form factor, I suspect you’ll like this.“

You can read more reviews about the Nespresso Vertuo on Amazon.

Nespresso VertuoPlus Customer Reviews

“Absolutely love this!!

It makes the best coffee and the pods that you can get for this are so incredible it’s comparable to a coffee bean or Starbucks. I love good coffee but sometimes I don’t have time to go to the coffee shop in the morning before work but now I don’t have to!

I bought a reusable pod for mine for espresso shots too. This Nespresso is a must have!

The only thing a little weird about it is the design. The way the water tank is detached from the Nespresso makes it’s very easy to break. In fact the first one I received it was broken in that exact spot. Just be careful when removing the water tank to refill it because if you lift it up and it’s still attached it could potential break in half or detach from the water hose at the bottom of the Nespresso.

Mine nespresso hasn’t moved since I bought it but I’d say once I move and pack it up into a box I’ll have to be very careful this piece does not break“

You can read more reviews about the Nespresso VertuoPlus on Amazon.

Alternatives

Here are some good alternatives to these machines in case you don’t like them at all.

Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe

We’ve mentioned this machine before in this Nespresso VertuoPlus vs Vertuo comparison guide.

The Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe (Breville, De’Longhi) is exactly the same model as the VertuoPlus but with a 60oz water tank, which is excellent if you really liked the VertuoPlus but wished it had a bigger water tank.

Nespresso Vertuo Next

The Nespresso Vertuo Next (Breville, De’Longhi) is one of the newest Nespresso espresso machines.

It comes with a 37oz water reservoir, and it has a wide variety of brew sizes.

• Coffee: 5oz, 8oz, and 14oz
• Espresso: 1.35oz, and 2.7oz

This coffee maker has a couple of key features that make it special.

First, it is only 5.5″ wide, so it’s perfect for small counters.

Also, this coffee maker has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatibility, so you can connect it to your phone to unlock new features.

To learn more about the differences between the Vertuo Next and and Vertuo Plus, check this resource: Nespresso Vertuo Next vs Vertuo Plus.

The Bottom Line: Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus

After reading this in-depth Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus comparison guide, you should have a pretty good idea of which one is better for your own needs.

The Nespresso Vertuo is for people who want a less modern-looking machine, with a big capsule container, easy to access, and with a powerful heating element.

The Nespresso VertuoPlus is ideal for those who want a modern espresso machine with an automatic opening and closing system, and a big adjustable water reservoir.

In most cases, we highly recommend you to pick the VertuoPlus since its features make it really convenient.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more “classic” coffee maker with an extra-large water reservoir, the Vertuo by De’Longhi is ideal.

Note: Remember that you can pick the VertuoPlus Deluxe (Breville, De’Longhi) that has a 60oz water reservoir.

Click on the links below to buy your Nespresso espresso machine:

• Nespresso Vertuo by Breville
• Nespresso Vertuo by De’Longhi
• Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville
• Nespresso VertuoPlus by De’Longhi