⚡️ Quick Verdict - NESPRESSO Vertuo Next (2020)
- Best For: Individuals desiring diverse coffee and espresso sizes.
- Strengths: Broad beverage range, consistent crema.
- Drawbacks: Exclusive pods, notable brewing noise.
- Verdict: Versatile single-serve system for varied preferences.
⚖️ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Versatility & Drink Options | Users appreciate the wide range of coffee styles and cup sizes, from espresso to large Alto brews, catering to different preferences throughout the day. The machine automatically adjusts brewing parameters for each capsule. | Some users find the limited availability and higher cost of Vertuo pods compared to third-party options restrictive. The variety, while broad within Nespresso's ecosystem, is tied solely to their specific capsule design. |
| Ease of Use & Technology | The barcode reading technology makes brewing exceptionally simple and consistent, eliminating guesswork. Maintenance is generally straightforward with easy-to-remove components for cleaning. | Reports indicate that initial models of the Vertuo Next could experience connectivity issues with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth updates, which sometimes affected machine performance or required troubleshooting. The machine also produces a noticeable amount of noise during the brewing process. |
| Design & Footprint | Its modern and sleek design, often incorporating recycled plastics, allows it to fit well in various kitchen aesthetics. The machine has a relatively compact footprint for the range of beverages it offers. | Despite the compact design, some users note the water tank capacity can feel small for households with multiple daily coffee drinkers, requiring frequent refills. The drip tray also needs regular emptying for larger cup sizes. |
| Crema Quality | The Centrifusion technology consistently produces a generous and smooth layer of crema on top of every coffee, enhancing the visual appeal and perceived richness of the drink. | While visually appealing, some find the crema to be excessively frothy or less dense compared to traditional espresso crema, which might alter the texture of certain coffee drinks. |
🔧 What’s Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Feature | Description | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Nespresso Vertuo Next Machine | The core coffee brewing unit, featuring Nespresso's Centrifusion technology. | This is the central device that reads capsule barcodes and spins the capsule at high speeds to extract coffee, delivering a wide range of coffee and espresso styles. |
| Removable Water Tank (approx. 1.1 L) | A transparent container that holds water for brewing. | Provides sufficient water for several brews before needing a refill, contributing to convenience. Its removability simplifies cleaning and filling. |
| Used Capsule Container | An internal bin that automatically collects used coffee capsules. | Offers hands-free disposal of capsules after brewing, keeping the counter tidy and allowing for the recycling of aluminum capsules through Nespresso's program. |
| Adjustable Drip Tray | A removable platform that catches drips and can be positioned at different heights or removed entirely. | Accommodates various cup sizes, from small espresso cups to tall travel mugs, preventing spills and making the machine adaptable to different drink volumes. |
| Welcome Coffee Capsule Assortment | A sample pack of Nespresso Vertuo capsules in different sizes and roasts. | Allows new users to immediately experience the variety of coffees available and helps them discover their preferred blends without needing to purchase full packs initially. |
💰 Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | The machine's price point is generally accessible for an automated coffee system offering diverse brew sizes. | While not excessively high, it still represents an initial cost that must be weighed against its long-term utility. |
| Capsule Cost & Availability | The convenience of Nespresso's direct ordering and recycling program adds value. The quality and consistency of Nespresso-branded coffee are generally high. | Vertuo capsules are proprietary and can only be purchased from Nespresso, leading to a higher per-cup cost compared to ground coffee or third-party pods for other systems. This creates a reliance on a single source. |
| Convenience vs. Running Costs | The machine offers significant time savings and ease of use, delivering café-style beverages at home quickly. | The ongoing expense of capsules can accumulate, making it less cost-effective in the long run for very frequent coffee drinkers compared to traditional brewing methods. |
| Durability & Longevity | The Vertuo Next is designed with a modern aesthetic and incorporates some recycled materials, suggesting a move towards more sustainable design. | Some users have reported variability in machine longevity, with certain units experiencing issues earlier than expected, potentially affecting the perceived long-term value. |
🔁 Nespresso Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | Nespresso VertuoPlus | NESPRESSO Vertuo Next (2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Footprint & Design | Features a relatively compact design with a rounded aesthetic; comes in various configurations including a motorized head. | Generally features a slightly slimmer profile and more angular, minimalist design, making it suitable for smaller counter spaces. Often made with a higher percentage of recycled plastic. |
| Connectivity | No integrated Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. | Includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for potential firmware updates and smart features, aiming for an improved user experience and future enhancements. |
| Water Tank Positioning | The water tank is often adjustable and can be swivelled to the side or back, offering flexibility in placement. | The water tank is typically fixed at the back of the machine, which can be less flexible for some kitchen layouts. |
| Brewing Capabilities | Offers five cup sizes from Espresso to Alto. | Retains the five cup sizes, including the 414ml Alto coffee. |
| Head Mechanism | Many VertuoPlus models feature a motorized head that opens and closes automatically. | The Vertuo Next typically features a manual locking mechanism for the head, which some users find more robust. |
⚔️ Alternatives vs NESPRESSO Vertuo Next (2020)
| Aspect | Keurig K-Elite | Nespresso OriginalLine Citiz | NESPRESSO Vertuo Next (2020) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brewing Method | Pressure-based single-serve brewing with disposable K-Cup pods. | High-pressure (19 bar) extraction for authentic espresso and lungo. | Centrifusion technology, spinning capsules at high speed while injecting water, reading barcodes for optimal brew settings. |
| Drink Variety & Sizes | Extensive variety of beverages (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, specialty drinks) from numerous brands and cup sizes (up to 355ml). | Primarily focused on authentic espresso (40ml) and lungo (110ml), with the option to add milk for milk-based drinks. | Offers a wide range of coffee sizes (Espresso to Alto, 40-414ml) with a distinct crema layer, specific to the Vertuo capsule system. |
| Pod System & Cost | Widely available third-party pods, generally lower per-cup cost, and refillable K-Cups exist. | Proprietary pods, but with a growing number of third-party compatible capsules available, offering more choice and competitive pricing. | Exclusive Nespresso Vertuo pods; no third-party options. Per-cup cost is generally higher compared to Keurig or OriginalLine compatible pods. |
| Crema Quality | Minimal to no crema produced, as it's designed for drip-style coffee. | Produces a dense, rich, and traditional espresso crema due to high-pressure extraction. | Generates a generous, visibly thick crema, which is characteristic of the Centrifusion brewing method across all coffee sizes. |
| Connectivity | No smart connectivity features. | No smart connectivity features. | Includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for firmware updates and potential smart features. |
💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- What types of coffee can the Nespresso Vertuo Next make? The Nespresso Vertuo Next can brew five different coffee sizes: Espresso (40ml), Double Espresso (80ml), Gran Lungo (150ml), Mug (230ml), and Alto (414ml), covering a wide spectrum from concentrated espresso shots to large mugs of coffee.
- Are Vertuo Next capsules compatible with other Nespresso machines? No, Vertuo capsules are exclusively designed for Vertuo line machines like the Vertuo Next due to their unique barcode system and Centrifusion brewing technology. They are not compatible with Nespresso OriginalLine machines.
- How do I clean my Nespresso Vertuo Next? Regular cleaning involves emptying and rinsing the water tank, drip tray, and used capsule container with warm water. A descaling cycle should be performed periodically using a Nespresso descaling solution to remove mineral buildup and maintain optimal performance.
- Does the Vertuo Next require a specific type of water? While not strictly required, using filtered water can help prevent mineral buildup in the machine, potentially extending its lifespan and improving coffee taste. Regular descaling is still necessary regardless of water type.
- Can the Vertuo Next brew cold coffee or iced beverages? The Vertuo Next brews hot coffee. To make iced beverages, you brew coffee over ice in a glass. Nespresso also offers specific Vertuo capsules designed for iced coffee preparation.
👍 Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The machine consistently produces a fantastic cup of coffee with a rich crema, regardless of the size. The variety of capsule options is impressive.
- It's incredibly user-friendly; just pop in a capsule, and the machine handles everything else perfectly.
- The sleek design fits well in my kitchen, and it doesn't take up too much counter space for all the drink options it provides.
- I appreciate the range of sizes, especially the larger mug and Alto options, which are great for my morning routine.
- Cleaning is surprisingly easy, and the automatic capsule ejection is a convenient feature.
👎 Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- The noise level during brewing is much louder than expected, which can be disruptive early in the morning.
- I find the limited availability of pods frustrating, and they are quite expensive compared to other single-serve options.
- The machine occasionally experiences connectivity issues when trying to update software, leading to minor inconveniences.
- The water tank, while easy to remove, feels a bit small and requires frequent refilling, especially if you drink multiple large coffees daily.
- I've noticed some inconsistencies with the machine's reliability over time; it doesn't always perform as expected after extended use.
📋 Key Details & Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brewing Method | Centrifusion™ Technology |
| Cup Sizes | Espresso (40ml), Double Espresso (80ml), Gran Lungo (150ml), Mug (230ml), Alto (414ml) |
| Water Tank Capacity | Approx. 1.1 Liters (37 oz) |
| Used Capsule Container Capacity | 10-13 large Vertuo capsules |
| Heat-up Time | Approx. 30 seconds |
| Power Rating | 1500 Watts |
| Weight | Approx. 4 kg (8.8 lbs) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | Approx. 14.2 cm x 42.9 cm x 31.4 cm (5.6 in x 16.9 in x 12.4 in) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Smart & Wi-Fi for software updates |
| Automatic Shut-off | After 9 minutes of inactivity |
| Construction Material | Partially made from recycled plastics |
🔚 Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The Nespresso Vertuo Next (2020) stands out for its exceptional versatility, offering a wide array of coffee and espresso sizes with a signature crema, catering to diverse preferences throughout the day.
- Its intuitive barcode scanning system ensures consistent, high-quality brews with minimal effort, making it ideal for those who value convenience and variety in their daily coffee routine.
- While the proprietary capsule system ensures a consistent Nespresso experience, it also means higher ongoing costs and a reliance on Nespresso for capsule supply, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users or those seeking third-party alternatives.
- The machine's modern design and connectivity features are appealing, though some users have noted concerns regarding operational noise and occasional connectivity stability in earlier models.
- Ultimately, if you prioritize convenience, enjoy a wide range of coffee styles from espresso to large mugs, appreciate a rich crema, and are comfortable with the Nespresso Vertuo capsule ecosystem, the Vertuo Next is a capable and stylish choice for home coffee brewing.
