Nespresso Vertuo Review (2024) - Tested For A Month
Do you want to press a button and get a flavorful espresso in seconds? Welcome to the Nespresso Vertuo coffee maker.
My coffee journey started many years ago with Nespresso machines.
I've tried them all — from Original to VertuoLine models, but the Vertuo is the one I always come back to.
It's the machine that launched the VertuoLine with a revolutionary brewing system.
Nespresso Vertuo Review – My Ratings & Top Features
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Key Features
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Things I Like
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Things I Don’t Like
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Why Should You Buy The Nespresso Vertuo?
Overall, I rate Nespresso Vertuo 4.9 out of 5.
It has a sleek and slim design, brews a quality shot with thick crema, and is extremely easy to use. Here’s why it’s an excellent choice for all home baristas:
- Excellent versatility — Can make four different coffee drink sizes
- Centrifusion extraction system — Uses a revolutionary capsule scanning technology to extract flavorful coffee
- 40 oz reservoir — You can make several drinks without refilling
- Large used pod container capacity — Fits up to 13 used capsules
Who Should Buy The Nespresso Vertuo?
Nespresso Vertuo is best for coffee drinkers who like variety and ease of use.
If you want an espresso one day and a cup of coffee the next day, this is the coffee machine for you.
It’s also a good choice if you live in a household with multiple users, as it can make different coffee drinks.
Overall, the Vertuo is best suited for beginner baristas or users who want simplicity, ease of use, and drink variety.
Why I Decided To Review The Nespresso Vertuo Espresso Machine
As an avid coffee lover and self-proclaimed espresso aficionado, I couldn't resist the opportunity to review the Vertuo espresso machine.
Nespresso was the first espresso machine I tried many years ago, and this is what started my love for coffee.
I used several different Nespresso machines over the years, but the Vertuo is still at the top of my list.
Nowadays, I regularly use traditional espresso machines, such as Breville and Delonghi.
However, I still return to my Vertuo when I don’t feel like putting in all the work that a traditional machine requires.
Testing Conditions
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Days Tested |
30 |
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Cups Brewed Per Day |
2 |
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Level Of Experience Needed |
Beginner |
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Reviewer Background |
Home brewing enthusiast who started with a Nespresso machine and recently upgraded to a Quick Mill Vetrano 2B. |
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Environment Tested |
Home |
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Money Saved Per Year |
Around $900 |
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Favorite Drink To Brew |
Espresso |
What’s It Like To Live With The Nespresso Vertuo
What’s In The Box?
Vertuo box contains:
- Vertuo machine
- Welcome pack of 12 Nespresso Vertuo capsules
- Instruction manual
Nespresso offers free shipping on all orders in the US. If you place an order by 4 pm Monday to Friday, your order will arrive in three to five business days.
I placed my order on Tuesday and received it on Friday. You can opt for same-day premium shipping, but this costs $5.
You can also return your espresso machine up to 30 days after purchase.[1]
Pulling My First Espresso Shot
Pulling my first espresso shot was extremely easy. The manual suggested cleaning the water tank, which was the first thing I did.
Then I plugged in the Vertuo machine, filled the water tank, and pressed the on button to preheat the machine.
The preheating took about 20 seconds, which is extremely fast.
I lifted the lever on the top of the machine and placed the Vertuo capsule in the capsule holder.
I closed the lever and turned it to the left to lock it in, and the machine made my espresso in 15 seconds.
The total wait time from the moment I pressed the on button until I had my first sip was about 35 seconds, which is impressively fast.
Finally, I lifted the lever, and the capsule was automatically ejected into the capsule container, and the coffee maker was ready to go again.
First Time Frothing Milk
Vertuo doesn't have a milk frother, which is the only downside of the device. However, Nespresso offers a Vertuo and Aeroccino bundle.
Aeroccino is Nespresso's milk-frothing device. It's always separate from the coffee maker, so you need more counter space for the additional milk frother.
As a huge latte lover, I knew I had to get the Aeroccino for my morning lattes. Here’s how I used it:
- Place the whisk on the center post inside the Aeroccino.
- Add cold milk. Make sure not to go over the maximum fill line, or the milk will spill over as it froths.
- Put the lid on.
- Press the power button on the Aeroccino and choose the desired frothing mode.
- Press and hold the button until you get desired froth consistency.
- Pour the milk into your cup, add espresso, and enjoy.
How Much Control Do You Have Over The Vertuo?
You don't have any control over the Vertuo. You can't change the brewing temperature, brew time, flow rate, or any other parameters.
The machine is designed to make coffee at the ideal temperature for each capsule, ensuring consistency and optimal taste.
Once you push down the lever, the machine automatically reads the barcode printed on the capsule edges.
This is how Vertuoline machines know which coffee size to make without any info from you.
The machine head punctures Vertuo pods, and the Vertuo injects hot water into it as it spins the pod around.[2]
The result is a consistent espresso shot with a thick and foamy crema, and no work is needed from you.
Look, Feel, and Size Of The Machine
It's a compact coffee machine with a simple design. The patterned water reservoir on the left-hand side gives the machine an attractive look.
This standard coffee maker is available in several colors:
- Titanium
- Chrome
- Red
- Black
- Matte Black
It’s no problem finding a color you prefer that complements your kitchen aesthetics.
Vertuo is compact, so it’s a good choice if you have limited counter space or live in a dorm.
Plus, it’s lightweight, so you can easily pick it up to clean the counter.
Even though it’s small size (8.3 x 11.9 x 11.9 in), it has a 40 oz removable water tank, which is a decent size.
For example, if you mostly make double espresso, you'll go days without needing to refill.
I also liked the water reservoir is see-through, so it’s easy to keep an eye on the water level.
The Vertuo comes with a built-in used capsule container located on the side of the machine.
When you open the lid to put in a new capsule, the machine automatically pushes the old capsule into the container, which holds 13 large pods.
What Drinks Can Nespresso Vertuo Make?
Nespresso Vertuo has four brewing options:
- Espresso (1.35 oz)
- Double Espresso (2.7 oz)
- Gran Lungo (5 oz)
- Coffee (7.8 oz)
I found the Nespresso coffee to taste delicious. All drinks are tipped with thick, foamy crema.
How Easy Is Nespresso Vertuo To Use?
Nespresso Vertuo is extremely easy to use. It has one-touch brewing.
You insert the capsule, close the lever, and the machine takes care of the rest by reading the barcode printed on the coffee pod.
Compared to a regular espresso machine, where you need to dose, grind, tamp, etc, this is incredibly easy.
How Long Does It Take? (From Heat Up To First Sip)
It takes about 35 seconds from heat up to the first sip.
The Nespresso heats in about 20 seconds and brews coffee in 15 seconds.
The exact brewing time depends on the specific pod you choose, but it generally takes a few seconds.
This is great if you’re often in a hurry or can’t function without a caffeine kick in the morning.
Does Nespresso Vertuo Have A Water Filtration System?
No, the Nespresso Vertuo doesn’t have a water filtration system.
My advice is to use filtered or bottled water for brewing to have the best coffee quality and ensure the longevity of your machine.
Bottled or filtered water reduces the buildup of minerals and water impurities.
How Hard Is It To Clean and Descale?
It’s very easy to clean and descale the Vertuo. Nespresso puts convenience first, and this goes for cleaning as well.
You need to do some regular maintenance, which involves emptying out the used coffee pods once the container is full.
You also need to empty and rinse the drip tray and refill the water tank.
How often this needs to be done depends on how often you use the machine, but generally, it’s about once or twice a week.
Vertuo also has a cleaning cycle you can run. You press the button three times in two seconds to start it.
The cleaning cycle lasts for five minutes and pushes water through the machine in three cycles.
You need to descale the machine every three months or after using 300 Nespresso capsules.
The machine has a descaling alert, so you don’t need to track the time yourself.
Nespresso sells a descaling solution, which you run via the machine’s descaling cycle.[3]
Finally, if you’re using the Aeroccino milk frother, you need to remove the whisk and clean it to prevent milk cloth.
My Favorite Parts About The Nespresso Vertuo
My favorite feature of the Vertuo is its versatility. Unlike the OriginalLine machines, Vertuo makes everything from espresso shots to a large cup of coffee.
Also, the machine produces amazing coffee. There’s no need to spend money at a coffee shop when I can have barista-style coffee at home.
I loved the adjustable drip tray with four position settings. I could fit various cup sizes and move the tray closer for espresso cups which avoids splashes.
Or, I could lower it down and fit a mug for my coffee.
I liked how easy it is to recycle pods. You get a recycling bag with each purchase, and you can drop it off at the Nespresso boutique the next time you get pods.
Finally, the fast heat-up time is a dream. I want my caffeine, and I want it now, and there’s almost no wait time with the Vertuo.
My Least Favorite Parts
I don’t like that the machine doesn’t have a built-in milk frother. I had to buy one separately, which is an additional expense and requires more space.
Also, you need to keep buying Nespresso pods to use this machine. You can easily order them through the Nespresso app or go to the Nespresso boutique.
However, this is a continuous expense that adds up over time. However, it’s still more affordable than going to a coffee shop.
Another coffee capsules con is that you're limited to Nespresso.
Unlike the brand's Original Line, you can only use Nespresso pods — there aren't any third-party pod options, which limits the selection.
Also, there are fewer Vertuo pods compared to K-cup pods.
Nespresso Vertuo Vs Similar Coffee Machines
Nespresso Vertuo Vs Original
There are two types of Nespresso machines: VertuoLine and OriginalLine. OrignalLine machines were the first Nespresso machines.
These use a traditional brewing system with a 19-bar pump to extract coffee and only make espresso.
One of the biggest benefits of OriginalLine machines is that they are compatible with third-party pods, so you have a huge selection.
On the other hand, VertuoLine uses Centrifusion, which spins the pod to extract coffee.
Vertuo can also brew larger coffee sizes, but you're limited to pods from Nespresso.
Nespresso Vertuo Vs Vertuo Plus
Vertuo Plus is a newer VertuoLine model. It has a larger water tank compared to the Vertuo (60 oz vs 40 oz).
Vertuo Plus also has an advanced user interface with touch-sensitive buttons.
The mechanism for opening and closing the capsule head is motorized, so you need to apply less strength compared to the Vertuo.
In terms of the brewing process, both machines use barcode recognition and Centrifusion technology.
However, Vertuo Plus is a more expensive model due to its more advanced, modern features.
Nespresso Vertuo Vs Keurig K-Café
Unlike the Vertuo, Keurig K-Cafe has a built-in milk frother. K-Cafe doesn’t make espresso beverages but coffee.
Also, it’s compatible with a wide range of K-cups, including tea and hot chocolate.
Unlike Vertuo's Centrifusion system, the K-Cafe pushes hot water through the pod to brew coffee.
Finally, K-Cafe gives you more control over the final brew, letting you choose the coffee strength and adjust the water volume.
Related Article - Best Espresso Machines Under $1000
FAQs
Is Nespresso Vertuo coffee strong?
Yes, Nespresso Vertuo coffee is strong. However, this depends on the exact Nespresso Vertuo capsules you choose.
Does Nespresso Vertuo make cappuccino?
No, Nespresso Vertuo doesn’t make cappuccino. You need to buy a separate milk frother to make cappuccinos.
Can you use regular coffee in Nespresso Vertuo?
No, you can’t use regular coffee in Nespresso Vertuo. This coffee maker is only compatible with coffee and espresso capsules.
Can I use Starbucks pods in Nespresso Vertuo?
No, you can’t use Starbucks pods in Nespresso Vertuo. It’s only compatible with Nespresso pods.
Is Nespresso Vertuo the same as Dolce Gusto?
No, Nespresso Vertuo isn’t the same as Dolce Gusto.
What’s the difference between Dolce Gusto and Nespresso?
The difference between Dolce Gusto and Nespresso is that they use different brewing methods. Also, these coffee makers use different style pods, and Dolce Gusto has a much larger selection of pods compared to Nespresso. You can make tea and hot chocolate on Dolce Gusto coffee and espresso machine, which isn’t the case with Nespresso.
Is The Nespresso Vertuo Worth Your Money?
If you enjoy strong coffee and espresso drinks and want authentic crema, the Vertuo is absolutely worth your money.
There aren't many cheaper models that make the same quality coffee.
This coffee and espresso machine is fast, has a small footprint, and extremely easy to use.
It’s a great choice if you like espresso but don’t want to go through the hassle of learning how to use a regular espresso machine.
Keep in mind it doesn’t come with a milk frother, so you’ll have to get one separately if you want to make milk-based drinks.
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Nespresso Vertuo
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Resources:
- https://www.nespresso.com/us/en/shipping-and-returns
- https://www.nespresso.com/de/en/nespresso-vertuo-kapselmaschinen-technologie
- https://www.nespresso.com/pro/us/en/order/accessories/pro/descaling-kit-b2b-2
Parker Russell is a coffee professional and the founder of Black Ink Coffee. As an expert in the field of coffee roasting, cupping (professional Q-Grader) and brewing, Parker has established Black Ink as brand that fuels the grind of dreamers.