Nespresso Vertuo Next vs Vertuo Plus: Which Coffee Machine Suits Your Lifestyle?

Standing before a Nespresso Vertuo machine, coffee enthusiasts may often grapple with the question: which model fits best? Today, we delve into a detailed comparison of the Vertuo Next and the Vertuo Plus, two popular options that both promise exceptional coffee experiences. But beneath the surface, what truly differentiates these machines?

At How To Cook Gourmet, we take pride in dissecting every element, from design aesthetics to technological features, performance, and sustainability. Let’s explore these two contenders closely and determine which one aligns perfectly with your kitchen vibe and caffeine cravings.

Distinctive Physical Designs: Compact Sophistication vs Classic Presence

While the Vertuo Next and Vertuo Plus share a family resemblance, their builds cater to different preferences and practical needs.

Vertuo Next: Crafted with a slim, modern profile ideal for tight kitchen corners, the Next model boasts a lighter footprint. Beyond its sleek aesthetics, it incorporates up to 54% recycled plastics, positioning it as a progressive choice for eco-conscious consumers. This compact design allows easy integration into smaller spaces without compromising style.

Vertuo Plus: Embracing a more traditional silhouette, the Plus features rounded edges and a sturdier frame, giving it a familiar, timeless coffee companion feel. It’s slightly bulkier but offers a larger water reservoir for convenience during extended coffee sessions.

Considering how often you brew and the available counter space, the Next’s environmentally friendly compactness appeals to minimalists, while the Plus’s generous reservoir suits households where coffee flows frequently.

Brewing Flexibility & Coffee Size Selections: Tailoring Your Perfect Cup

The brewing technology behind both machines shapes the variety and customization of your coffee options.

Vertuo Next: Utilizing Nespresso’s innovative Centrifusion™ system with barcode recognition, the Next automatically adjusts brewing parameters like temperature, spin speed, and coffee volume based on the pod scanned. It supports up to five cup sizes ranging from a concentrated espresso shot to an 18 oz large mug, perfect for everyone who enjoys switching styles from a bold short black to a generous coffee.

Vertuo Plus: Employing a more classic pump-based espresso system without barcode reading, the Plus offers three primary sizes mostly centered around espresso and double espresso shots. Its straightforward approach will satisfy those who prefer a consistent, uncomplicated brewing routine.

If your mornings call for variety-say a velvety espresso for your afternoon boost and a larger coffee before meetings-the Next’s versatility is a clear winner. For aficionados who savor a precise espresso shot every time, the Plus provides a reliable, straightforward solution.

Smart Features & Connectivity: Embracing the Digital Era in Coffee Brewing

Smart appliances have transformed kitchen experiences, and coffee machines are no exception. Both the Vertuo Next and Plus offer wireless connectivity, but with varying capabilities.

Vertuo Next: Equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the Next enables control via the Nespresso app, letting users start brewing remotely, receive maintenance alerts, and install software updates that enhance functionality over time.

Vertuo Plus: While featuring Bluetooth functionality for mobile control, it lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and automatic updates. However, it does incorporate a water tank sensor to prevent the frustration of brewing dry.

Tech lovers may appreciate the Next’s advanced connectivity, allowing an effortless start to their day. Conversely, if simplicity is preferred and avoiding mid-brew mishaps is a priority, the Plus’s pragmatic features shine.

Performance & Brewing Speed: Getting Your Morning Fix Fast

Speed is an essential factor on busy mornings. Both machines offer rapid coffee delivery but differ slightly.

Vertuo Next: With an average brewing time of 15-20 seconds for a standard cup, the Next edges ahead by a few seconds, which can matter when caffeine cravings peak.

Vertuo Plus: Brewing times typically range between 20-25 seconds, slightly slower but still impressively fast for a quality espresso or coffee.

While speed is important, keep in mind the Plus’s larger water reservoir offers extended brewing between refills. The Next’s tech-driven updates help maintain consistent performance, balancing swift preparation with innovation.

Maintenance & Cleaning: Streamlining Your Ritual

Maintaining a coffee machine should be simple to avoid disrupting your brewing routine.

• Vertuo Next: Designed with ease in mind, its detachable lightweight water tank and straightforward capsule container removal simplify cleaning. The connected app even notifies you when descaling is needed, helping you stay on top effortlessly.
• Vertuo Plus: Though it sports a larger tank, removing and reinserting it can be finicky, sometimes resembling a puzzle. Descaling reminders, however, require manual monitoring.

For those valuing minimal maintenance hassles, the Next is a strong candidate. If refill frequency is a greater concern than tank handling, the Plus offers capacity at a slight cleanup trade-off.

Coffee Taste & Quality: Which Machine Crafts Your Perfect Cup?

Ultimately, the core measure is taste. Both machines employ Nespresso’s Centrifusion technology, spinning capsules to optimally blend coffee and water, yet the final flavor nuances vary.

Vertuo Next: Tends to produce a bolder, richer coffee with thicker, velvety crema and a pronounced aroma-ideal for espresso aficionados and those seeking intense coffee experiences.

Vertuo Plus: Offers a smoother, lighter cup with a more delicate, floral scent and a gentle frothy crema. It caters well to casual drinkers or anyone preferring mild yet flavorful coffee.

Your coffee preference ultimately determines the flavor winner. Both uphold high standards, but the Next’s profile stands out for those favoring depth, while the Plus comforts with elegance.

Cost Comparison: Evaluating Value Beyond the Price Tag

Price influences many purchasing decisions, so understanding value for your money is crucial.

The Vertuo Next generally carries a modestly higher price point attributed to added smart features and sustainable materials. Meanwhile, the Vertuo Plus offers a more affordable entry into quality espresso-making with its classic design and larger capacity.

Your decision should weigh factors like kitchen space, need for smart functionality, and brewing habits. Budgets aligned with technology and aesthetics will find a fit in the Next, whereas pragmatic buyers seeking volume and value lean towards the Plus.

Conclusion: Matching Your Coffee Machine to Your Personal Brew Style

Choosing between the Nespresso Vertuo Next and Vertuo Plus boils down to individualized coffee rituals. Are you energized by cutting-edge features and a diverse coffee portfolio? Or do you prefer timeless design, simplicity, and generous water capacity?

Whether you gravitate toward the Next’s tech-forward vibe or the Plus’s dependable simplicity, both machines deliver top-tier coffee experiences. Let your daily coffee mood and kitchen setup guide your choice – because exceptional coffee deserves the perfect machine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the primary difference in design between the Vertuo Next and Plus?
A: The Vertuo Next is compact, utilizing recycled materials with a modern aesthetic. The Plus is bigger with rounded contours and a classic appearance, featuring a larger water tank.

Q: Which machine offers more brewing flexibility?
A: The Vertuo Next supports five cup sizes from espresso to large 18 oz mugs, while the Plus offers three sizes focused on espresso and double espresso.

Q: Are there differences in connectivity features?
A: Yes, the Next includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for app control and automatic updates, while the Plus provides Bluetooth only and a water tank sensor.

Q: How do the machines compare on cleaning and maintenance?
A: The Next has an easy-to-remove water tank and app reminders for descaling, making maintenance simpler. The Plus’s larger tank is bulkier, requiring manual maintenance awareness.

Q: Does one produce better coffee flavor?
A: Both create excellent coffee, but the Next tends to deliver a bolder, richer brew with thicker crema, whereas the Plus produces a smoother, lighter cup.

Q: Are the coffee capsules compatible across both machines?
A: Yes, both use Nespresso Vertuo-only capsules. OriginalLine pods are not compatible.

Q: Can you make milk-based drinks like lattes without extra accessories?
A: Neither machine includes a built-in milk frother. A separate frothing device is necessary for milk-based recipes.

Q: Which model is more environmentally friendly?
A: The Vertuo Next edges ahead with up to 54% recycled plastic construction and energy-saving modes.

Q: How do price points compare?
A: The Next typically costs slightly more due to tech features and materials; the Plus offers a more budget-conscious option.

Q: Which is quieter during operation?
A: The Vertuo Next runs quieter thanks to updated brewing technology, suitable for peaceful mornings.