Nespresso is known for its convenient, easy-to-use espresso machines. Vertuo Next and Plus are two of its latest offerings, and they both use Vertuo capsules. Nespresso Vertuo machines use Centrifusion technology to produce a crema-rich espresso or coffee drink. When comparing the Nespresso Vertuo Next vs. VertuoPlus, they may look similar but have big differences. VertuoPlus has an easy-to-head opening system and a handy rotating water tank, while VertuoNext can make a big 18 oz coffee and has Wi-Fi connectivity. Whether you’re just looking to make the perfect cup of espresso or want your machine to do more, these machines each deliver something unique and powerful to the table.
Straight to the point..
In my opinion, VertuoPlus is the way to go because of its convenient tank and good value and price. But if you want the ability to make a large coffee and want the latest technology, VertuoNext is a good choice. But, some Nespresso fans (including me) have had issues with the VertuoNext. I’ll discuss that in this article.
I’ve used both of these Nespresso machines, and I’ll tell you all their similarities and differences so you can pick the best one for you.
RUNNERUP  | BEST CHOICE  | |
Product | VERTUO NEXT | VERTUO PLUS |
Multiple Colors |
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Reservoir Capacity | 37 oz. | 40 oz. |
Moveable Tank |
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Auto Off |
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Weight | 8.8 lbs | 10.1 lbs |
Dimensions (WxDxH) | 5.5 x 16.8 x 12.4 in | 8.7 x 12.7 x 12.8 in |
Customers Rating | ||
Buy |
VertuoPlus 🏆
Vertuo Plus was released in 2017 as a successor to VertuoLine. It is similar to previous VertuoLine models. It is one of the most popular espresso machines on the market, and for a good reason. However, it was modified to a slightly different brewing process. The Vertuo Plus is reliable and efficient and produces great-tasting espressos and coffees. It’s also very easy to use – just insert a pod and push a button.
Additionally, the design of the Vertuo Plus is slimmer and more compact than that of the Vertuo Next. As you might expect, this also means it’s much lighter to carry around.
PROS
- Good crema on the coffee
- Affordable price
- Adjustable water tank
- Quick warm-up time
- bigger water tank
- Easy to clean and maintain
CONS
- No Wifi connectivity
Vertuo Next
The Nespresso Vertuo Next is designed to be more intuitive and interactive than the traditional Vertuo machines. It was launched in 2020 with a sleek, modern design with brilliant colors.
A simplified user interface offers coffee lovers a faster way to customize their perfect cup at the touch of a button. However, it has several serious technical issues. Due to these factors, owners of the Vertuo Next have more trouble with the machine than any other Nespresso model, like coffee or water leaking from the bottom, coffee tasting too weak or like plastic, and orange light blinking. These problems lead to many unhappy customers who are unsatisfied with the purchase.
PROS
- Incredibly easy to use
- 18 oz carafe brewing
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Easy to clean and maintain
CONS
- Expensive upfront cost
- Several complicated problems.
- Smaller water tank
Nespresso Vertuo Next vs Plus Specs: Key Differences
Both the Nespresso Vertuo Next and Plus are great machines that will help you make delicious espresso at home. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should consider before making your decision.
Design & Built
The Vertuo Next and Plus feature a sleek, modern design that is sure to impress. The Vertuo Plus is created from 40% recycled plastic, while the Vertuo Next is made with 54% recycled materials, offering a stylish look without sacrificing performance.
Both machines have a compact size that doesn’t take up too much counter space, and the key components are conveniently located at the front for ease of use and maintenance. However, the Vertuo Next has a more modern design compared to the Plus and comes with a larger brewing chamber that is wider at the top and slimmer below, making it more compact and easier to fit into tight spaces. The Vertuo Plus has a smooth, round shape with a spout sticking out.
Both machines have a removable drip tray, but the one on the Plus is larger than the Next. The drip tray can be adjusted in height to accommodate different-sized mugs or removed completely.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Vertuo Next has a more unified design that looks like one compact machine, while the Vertuo Plus looks more like a classic coffee machine. Ultimately, this is down to personal preference, but both machines provide an attractive addition to any kitchen.
Colors
When it comes to colors, the Nespresso Vertuo Next and Plus models have a few options to choose from. The VertuoNext has three finish options: standard, premium, and deluxe. The standard option is matte black with four accent color options. The premium and deluxe models have chrome accents. The deluxe machines even have a dark chrome option.
The VertuoPlus comes in two options – standard and deluxe. The deluxe color scheme and chrome accent finishes are the same as the Next. For both models, you can choose from black, white, grey, red, and stainless steel finishes.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite espresso drinks in style.
Size & Weight
Nespresso Vertuo Next is significantly smaller and lighter than the Vertuo Plus. The Vertuo Next is 5.5 x 16.8 x 12.4 inches in size, with a 37-ounce removable water tank, and weighs 8.8 pounds. On the other hand, the Vertuo Plus has a larger size of 8.7 x 12.7 x 12.8 in with a 40-ounce removable water tank and a cable length of 29.13 inches. It weighs 10.1 pounds.
Capsule Container
Both have an automatic capsule ejection system, so you don’t have to remove the used pods manually. This is a great feature as it makes your coffee-making process easier and more efficient. The used pods automatically drop into the pod container of the machine.
Vertuo Plus has a larger container that can hold up to 10 capsules, while Vertuo Next can only hold 8 used pods. If you use your espresso machine often, you’ll want to opt for the Vertuo Plus to save time spent emptying out the capsule container.
Water Tank
One major feature that differentiates the Nespresso Vertuo Next from the Vertuo Plus is their respective water tank capacities. The Vertuo Plus has a 40 oz. water tank that is adjustable, allowing it to be moved to either the side or back of the machine. This makes it easier to place the machine wherever you want in your kitchen or workspace. On the other hand, the Vertuo Next has a smaller 37 oz. tank that is placed in the back and cannot be adjusted. Both machines have removable water reservoirs for easy refilling.
Head Functionality
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus and Vertuo Next have distinct differences regarding the head opening system, where the Plus is automatic while the Next is manual.
The Vertuo Plus has a motorized lid. All you need to do is gently push up the lever, and the top opens up, and tap the lever down for the head to close.
On the other hand, the Vertuo Next has a spring-loaded lid. You have to slide the lever to unlock it. Then load the pod, push down the head, and slide the lever back to the lock position.
This can be annoying if you’re making multiple cups at once, as you have to keep reaching over every few minutes to open and close the machine. It is not a portafilter-style process but can feel a little cumbersome when compared to the ease of use of the Plus.
However, when it comes to convenience, the VertuoPlus definitely wins out with its motorized opening system. This makes it a much better choice if you plan on brewing for a group or making a few cups in quick succession.
Brewing Experience
Nespresso Vertuo machines use centrifusion technology to extract maximum flavor from their capsules. The capsules are spun 7,000 times per minute, and the coffee is ready in about 25 seconds. You won’t be waiting more than a minute for your coffee. However, the Next takes 10 seconds longer to brew and makes louder noise compared to the Plus.
In terms of taste, both make perfectly blended coffee, but the crema on the Plus is creamier and more consistent. It also makes hotter coffee. Theoretically, the taste should be near-identical as they use the same VertuoLine technology. However, the Next can produce a more bitter flavor due to taking 10 seconds longer to brew, extracting more flavors, and producing a bubblier crema. The Plus can make a slightly sweeter drink, especially if you make a milk-based drink. Ultimately, both machines offer an excellent cup of coffee and provide the same level of convenience and satisfaction. But my vote goes to Plus. However, my personal preference is for the Plus model.
Brew Sizes
Both Nespresso Vertuo Plus and Next can brew:
- Espresso (1.35 oz)
- Double espresso (2.7 oz.)
- Gran Lungo (5.07 oz.)
- Coffee (7.77 oz.)
However, there is a special 18 oz pour-over carafe pod that is exclusively compatible with the Nespresso Vertuo Next.
Ease Of Use Experience
When it comes to using the Nespresso Vertuo Next and Plus, I can tell you firsthand that the experience is a delight. The simple one-button setup makes it easy to get your coffee going without having to worry about setting temperatures or worrying about brewing times. Both machines use Nespresso Vertuo capsules which have a bar code that each machine reads to deliver a specific flow, water volume, temperature, and infusion time – ensuring that your coffee drink will be consistent every time.
The smooth design of the machines also reflects in their everyday functioning; both were a joy to use, with smooth running across weeks of testing and very little setup to begin with. Even in the darkest kitchen at 4 am, I could operate the machines easily.
My experience with both machines has been positive, and I would highly recommend either one for a quality cup of coffee every time.
Wifi Connectivity
Nespresso’s Vertuo Next is their first machine to offer both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. This extra connection allows for firmware updates directly from your home network, including software-based features and fixes. While the Wifi connection cannot be used to make coffee, it can be used to set the water hardness size, which can modify the brewing process.
However, the Nespresso app is much more useful. You can easily order new pods and connect your Vertuo Plus by typing in the serial number. So while the Wifi feature may not offer many practical advantages, the accompanying app makes up for it in terms of convenience and usability.
Power Usage
The Vertuo Next has a higher power rating of 1500 watts compared to the Vertuo Plus’s 1300 watts. This may not seem like much of a difference. Another important aspect to consider is the automatic shut-off feature of both machines. Both the Vertuo Next and the Vertuo Plus have the ability to reduce electricity usage by automatically turning off after nine minutes of non-use. This is a great feature that not only helps save energy but also prolongs the life of the machine.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The removable water tank and drip tray make them easier to clean than other models. Both models come with a removable water tank and a removable drip tray that can be easily accessed and removed for cleaning. The removable components make these machines easy to clean and maintain.
To keep your Nespresso Vertuo functioning optimally, it is important to descale it every 3 months or so. Descaling removes mineral deposits from the machine that can affect its performance. The models also come with an alert light that will let you know when it’s time to descale your machine.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are a great way to get product feedback before purchasing them. Most customers seem to be satisfied with their purchases on Next and Plus. However, there have been several reports of issues with the Vertuo Next, such as machine leaks and blinking orange and red lights, that are difficult to resolve. I also experienced these issues with my Next machine.
Contrarily, the majority of customer reviews for Vertuo Plus are highly positive. Consumers are generally pleased with the machine’s appearance, design, and performance, and they applaud its advanced features, including the one-touch button and LED display.
Based on my usage experience, I would rate the Vertuo Next 3.9 out of 5 and the Vertuo Plus 4.8 out of 5.
Price & Value for Money
In terms of price and value for money, there are some key differences between the two models.
The Nespresso Vertuo Next is slightly more expensive than the Plus but does come with some additional features, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Although this can be a nice addition for those who like to use their coffee machine with smart technology, I would argue that the additional cost of the Next model isn’t worth the added features.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus has an adjustable water tank and a larger water reservoir than the Next and is much better value for money.
Personally, I believe that the Vertuo Plus is the clear winner in value for money. I don’t think the extra features included with the Nespresso Vertuo Next are worth the higher price tag when you can get similar performance from the Plus at a lower cost.
Vertuo Next vs VertuoPlus – Final Decision
Nespresso has made waves in the coffee world with its Vertuo Next and VertuoPlus. The decision between VertuoPlus vs Next largely depends on personal preferences and needs.
The Vertuo Next has a larger 18 oz carafe brewing capacity and Bluetooth connectivity but is more expensive upfront, and there have been reports of complicated problems. The Vertuo Plus is more affordable and has a handy rotating water tank, a convenient head opening system, and a quick warm-up time, but it does not have Bluetooth connectivity. Both machines offer attractive designs, good value, and easy-to-use systems, but Vertuo Plus is a better choice if convenience and ease of use are the top priorities.
