As a coffee enthusiast who values convenience and quality, I have had the pleasure of used both the VertuoPlus Breville and DeLonghi versions. It is a versatile coffee maker that offers a variety of brew sizes and extraction technologies to cater to different tastes and preferences.
In this article, I will compare the Vertuo Plus Breville vs DeLonghi versions, highlighting the differences in design, features, user interface, performance, maintenance, and price. Based on my personal experience with both machines, I will offer insights and recommendations to help you make an informed decision when choosing between the two.
Straight To The Point
The Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Vertuo Plus have similar features, including Centrifusion extraction technology, brew sizes, and automatic shut-off feature. However, the Breville version is made of metal and plastic, giving it a more robust and durable feel compared to the primarily plastic DeLonghi version. The Breville version also has a more refined finishing with no visible seams or rough edges, contributing to its premium feel.
Additionally, the Breville version is more compact and weighs slightly more than the DeLonghi version. The choice between the two machines may come down to personal preference and budget, as the Breville version is typically more expensive than the DeLonghi version.
VertuoPlus Breville vs DeLonghi – 360° View
Let’s see Vertuo Plus DeLonghi and Breville in 360 view.
Design and Build
The design and build quality of the Nespresso VertuoPlus machines are essential factors to consider when choosing between the Breville and DeLonghi versions.
Dimensions and Weight
The Breville Vertuo Plus machine features a sleek, modern design that combines a matte black plastic finish with chrome accents. It has a relatively compact footprint, measuring 9.1x 13.2x 12.8 inches, and weighs 10.1 pounds, making it easy to move around or store in small kitchens. The Vertuo Plus Breville has a smooth, round shape. The capsule container is located on the machine’s backside, and the drip tray is adjustable and removable to accommodate different cup sizes, and easy cleaning.
On the other hand, the DeLonghi Nespresso VertuoPlus machine has a more traditional design, with a black plastic finish and silver accents. It is slightly larger than the Breville version, measuring 16.88 x 5.59 x 12.79 inches, and weighs 9 pounds. The capsule container is located on the machine’s backside, and the drip tray is adjustable and removable to accommodate different cup sizes, and easy cleaning.
Materials Used in Construction
In terms of build quality, both machines feel sturdy and well-made, with no flimsy parts or wobbling components. The DeLonghi version is primarily made of plastic, with some metal accents. While the plastic used is sturdy and durable.
In contrast, the Breville version is made of metal and plastic, giving it a more robust and durable feel. The metal components add an extra layer of durability and resistance to wear and tear. Moreover, the Breville version has a more refined finishing, with no visible seams or rough edges, which contributes to its premium feel.
Water Tank Capacity
The Breville version has a larger water tank capacity than the DeLonghi version, holding up to 60 ounces of water compared to 40 ounces for the DeLonghi. This means that users can brew more cups of coffee before needing to refill the tank.
Rotating Water Tank
The rotating feature of the water tank makes it easy to access and refill. By simply rotating the tank, you can easily remove it from the machine and fill it up with water. Once it’s filled, you can simply rotate it back into place, and it will securely lock into position.
I have found the rotating water tank to be a very convenient feature of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machines. It’s easy to use, and the large capacity means that I don’t have to refill it too often.
Features
As an avid coffee drinker, I have found the features of the Nespresso VertuoPlus machines to be quite impressive. The machines come equipped with several useful features that enhance the brewing experience and ensure consistent results.
Extraction Technology
Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machine use the same Centrifusion extraction technology to brew coffee. This technology uses centrifugal force to spin the capsule at high speeds, which blends the coffee grounds and hot water together to create a rich, flavorful brew.
Brew Sizes
One of the standout features of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machine is the range of brew sizes it offers. The Breville and DeLonghi versions can both brew five different cup sizes: Coffee (7.77 oz), Gran Lungo (5.07 oz), Double Espresso (2.7 oz), and Espresso (1.35 oz). The flexibility to choose between these sizes allows users to customize their brewing experience according to their preferences.
Automatic Shut-Off
Both machines also come with an automatic shut-off feature, which turns off the machine after nine minutes of inactivity to conserve energy. This is a useful feature for those who may forget to turn off their coffee maker when not in use.
Head Functionality
Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Nespresso VertuoPlus machines come with a motorized head that opens and closes automatically, making it easy to insert the coffee pods. To open the head, gently push up the lever, and the top will open up automatically, allowing you to insert the coffee pod. Once you’ve inserted the pod, you can tap the lever down to close the head, and the machine will automatically recognize the pod and adjust the brewing settings accordingly.
I have found the motorized head to be a convenient feature that saves time and effort, especially when making multiple cups of coffee.
In terms of features, the Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machine are virtually identical. Both offer the same extraction technology, brew sizes, and automatic shut-off feature.
User Interface
The user interface of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machines plays a crucial role in the brewing experience, as it allows users to customize their coffee according to their preferences. The user interface comprises the buttons, display features, and overall layout of the machine’s controls.
Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machine feature a one-button interface, making it easy to operate even for those who are not tech-savvy. The machine uses capsule recognition and code reading technology to detect the type of coffee blend being used and adjust the brewing parameters accordingly to deliver optimal results.
Performance
Performance is a critical factor to consider when choosing a coffee machine, and the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machines do not disappoint. I can provide a detailed comparison of their performance.
Brew Quality
Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Nespresso VertuoPlus machine deliver excellent brew quality thanks to their Centrifusion extraction technology. The resulting brew is rich, flavorful, and with a thick layer of crema, which is essential for espresso lovers. However, I have noticed that the Breville version may produce a slightly more consistent brew quality than the DeLonghi version.
Heat-up Time
Another essential performance metric is heat-up time. The Nespresso Vertuo Plus machines have a relatively short heat-up time, taking only around 20-25 seconds to preheat. Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions have similar heat-up times, which is ideal for those who need a quick caffeine fix.
Noise Level
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus machines are relatively quiet when in operation, with a noise level of around 32-38 decibels. Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions have similar noise levels, which is ideal for those who don’t want to disturb others in their household or office.
Overall, both the Breville and DeLonghi versions of the Nespresso Vertuo Plus machine perform excellently in terms of brew quality, heat-up time, and noise level. However, I have found that the Breville version’s brew quality is slightly more consistent, and the interface provides more options to fine-tune the brewing process to your liking.
Maintaining and Cleaning
Maintaining and cleaning a coffee maker is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance. Here’s a comparison of the VertuoPlus Breville vs DeLonghi in terms of maintenance and cleaning.
Cleaning Indicators
To maintain the quality of the brew and the longevity of the machine, it’s essential to descale the Vertuo Plus regularly. Both the Breville and DeLonghi versions come with a descaling alert that lets you know when it’s time to descale the machine. The alert is activated after around 600 brews, which is approximately every three months for moderate use.
Cleaning Requirements
In terms of cleaning requirements, I have found that both easier to clean and maintain. These comes with a removable drip tray and capsule container, which makes cleaning them a breeze. One important aspect of maintenance is descaling, which removes mineral buildup that can affect the taste of the coffee and prolong the lifespan of the machine.
To descale the machine, both versions require the use of Nespresso’s descaling solution, which is specially designed for Nespresso machines. The cleaning process involves mixing the descaling solution with water and running it through the machine.
I have found both versions easier to disassemble and clean, making maintenance less of a hassle.
Pricing
The Breville version is generally priced higher than the DeLonghi version. While the prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, the Breville version typically costs around $150-$160, while the DeLonghi version is usually priced between $160-$170.
Value for Money
Despite the higher price, the Breville version may offer better value for money for some users. The Breville version comes with some additional features, such as a more durable metal body and a more straightforward cleaning process, which may justify the higher price for some users. Additionally, the Breville version may be a better option for heavy coffee drinkers who will be using the machine frequently.
Final Thoughts – Breville vs. DeLonghi
Based on my experience, I would highly recommend the VertuoPlus Breville version. Although it may be priced slightly higher, it offers some additional features that make it worth the investment. The durable metal body, better brew quality, and lower noise level are significant advantages that justify the higher price point for me. However, for users who are more budget-conscious, the DeLonghi version still offers excellent value for money and is a solid option for a high-quality coffee maker.
