Nespresso Vertuo Plus Review

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of the most popular single-serve coffee makers on the market, and for good reason. It combines the convenience of pod brewing with a unique centrifusion technology that produces a thick, velvety crema. But is it the right machine for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to give you an honest, useful review.

Design and Build Quality

The Vertuo Plus has a sleek, modern design that fits well in most kitchens. It features a slim profile, measuring about 5.5 inches wide and 12.8 inches deep, so it won't take up too much counter space. The machine is available in several colors, including black, silver, and red, to match your decor.

The build quality is solid, with a sturdy plastic body and a metal drip tray. The water tank is a standout feature: it holds 60 ounces (about 7 cups) and is removable, making it easy to fill at the sink. The tank is also transparent, so you can see the water level at a glance.

One unique design element is the motorized brew head. When you close the handle, the head automatically lowers onto the pod, and it opens with a button press. This adds a touch of automation that many users appreciate. The machine also has an automatic shut-off feature that turns it off after 9 minutes of inactivity, which helps save energy.

Performance and Coffee Quality

The Vertuo Plus uses Nespresso's Centrifusion technology, which spins the pod at high speed while injecting water. This creates a crema that is denser and more persistent than what you get from traditional drip coffee makers. The result is a smooth, rich cup of coffee or espresso with a layer of golden crema on top.

The machine heats up in about 25 seconds, so you won't wait long for your first cup. It can brew five different sizes: espresso (1.35 oz), double espresso (2.7 oz), gran lungo (5 oz), coffee (7.7 oz), and alto (14 oz). The size is determined by the barcode on the pod, so you don't have to fiddle with settings. Just insert a pod, press the button, and the machine does the rest.

In terms of taste, the coffee is consistently hot and flavorful, though the flavor profile depends heavily on the pod you choose. Nespresso offers a wide range of blends and roasts, from mild to intense, so there's something for every palate. However, the coffee may not be as strong as what you'd get from a traditional espresso machine, and some users find the crema to be a bit too frothy for their liking.

Ease of Use

One of the biggest selling points of the Vertuo Plus is its simplicity. There's no learning curve: you fill the tank, insert a pod, close the handle, and press the single button to brew. The machine automatically reads the barcode on the pod and adjusts the water amount, temperature, and brewing time accordingly.

The motorized brew head adds convenience, but it also means you need to wait a few seconds for it to open and close. Some users find this slightly slow, but it's not a major issue. The drip tray is adjustable, so you can fit different cup sizes, and it has a grid that makes it easy to slide a cup in and out.

Cleaning is straightforward. The drip tray and pod container are removable and dishwasher safe. The water tank can be wiped out with a damp cloth. Descaling is required every few months, and the machine alerts you when it's time. The process takes about 15 minutes and involves running a descaling solution through the machine.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Daily cleaning is minimal. After each brew, the used pod is automatically ejected into a bin that holds about 10 to 12 pods. You'll need to empty this bin every few days, depending on usage. The drip tray should be rinsed regularly to prevent coffee residue buildup.

For deeper cleaning, Nespresso recommends wiping down the exterior and the brewing unit with a soft, damp cloth. The water tank can be washed with mild soap and water. Descaling is the most involved maintenance task, but the machine has a descaling alert that takes the guesswork out of it.

One common complaint is that the pod container can be difficult to remove if you don't pull it straight out. Also, the machine's internal parts are not user-serviceable, so if something goes wrong, you may need to contact Nespresso support.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the Vertuo Plus has many fans, there are some recurring complaints in buyer reviews. Here are the most common issues:

• Pod cost and availability: Vertuo pods are proprietary and can be more expensive than K-Cups. They are only available from Nespresso or authorized retailers, and some users find the selection limited compared to Keurig.
• Noise level: The centrifusion spinning can be loud, especially during the extraction phase. Some users find it disruptive early in the morning.
• Water tank leaks: A few users report that the water tank can leak if not seated properly. This is usually due to a defective seal, but it's worth checking.
• Brewing temperature: Some users find the coffee not hot enough, especially if they add cold milk. The temperature is not adjustable.
• Motorized head issues: There are occasional reports of the motorized brew head failing to open or close, which can be a hassle. This is more common with heavy use.

Comparison with Close Alternatives

If you're considering the Vertuo Plus, you might also look at the Nespresso Vertuo Next, the Keurig K-Elite, or a traditional espresso machine like the Breville Barista Express.

Nespresso Vertuo Next

The Vertuo Next is a newer model that is more compact and eco-friendly, made from 54% recycled plastic. It also has Bluetooth connectivity and can brew the same sizes as the Plus. However, it has a smaller water tank (37 oz) and is reported to be less reliable, with more frequent breakdowns. The Plus is generally considered more robust.

Keurig K-Elite

The K-Elite is Keurig's top-tier model, offering a larger water reservoir (75 oz), a strong brew setting, and a hot water dispenser for tea or instant soup. It's more affordable and uses widely available K-Cups, which are cheaper and more varied. However, it doesn't produce crema, and the coffee is often thinner and less rich than the Vertuo Plus. If you prioritize variety and cost, the K-Elite is a strong contender.

Breville Barista Express

For those who want true espresso and are willing to put in the effort, the Breville Barista Express is a semi-automatic machine with a built-in grinder and steam wand. It gives you full control over grind size, dose, and extraction, and it can produce café-quality shots. However, it's more expensive, has a steeper learning curve, and requires more maintenance. The Vertuo Plus is better for those who want convenience without sacrificing quality.

Value and Verdict

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus sits in the mid-range of pod coffee makers, typically priced higher than Keurig models but lower than high-end espresso machines. It offers a good balance of convenience and coffee quality, making it a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers who don't want to fuss with grinding and tamping.

However, the ongoing cost of pods can add up. If you drink multiple cups a day, the expense can rival that of a café habit. But for many, the convenience and consistent results justify the cost.

Overall, the Vertuo Plus is a reliable, well-designed machine that delivers excellent coffee with minimal effort. It's best suited for individuals or small households who enjoy both coffee and espresso and value time savings. If you're willing to accept the proprietary pod system and the associated costs, you'll likely be very satisfied with this purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any coffee pod in the Nespresso Vertuo Plus?

No, the Vertuo Plus only works with Nespresso Vertuo pods, which have a barcode on the rim. The machine reads the barcode to adjust brewing parameters. You cannot use OriginalLine pods or third-party capsules.

How often do I need to descale the Vertuo Plus?

Nespresso recommends descaling every 3 months or after 300 capsules, whichever comes first. The machine has a descaling alert. Use Nespresso's descaling solution or a citric acid solution, and follow the manual instructions.

Does the Vertuo Plus make regular coffee or just espresso?

It makes both. Depending on the pod you insert, it can brew espresso (1.35 oz), double espresso (2.7 oz), gran lungo (5 oz), coffee (7.7 oz), or alto (14 oz). The machine automatically adjusts the water amount based on the pod's barcode.

Is the water tank removable?

Yes, the 60-ounce water tank is detachable, which makes it easy to fill and clean. It sits on the side of the machine and can be removed without moving the whole unit.

How loud is the Vertuo Plus during brewing?

It's moderately loud, especially during the extraction phase due to the centrifusion spinning. Many users report it's comparable to other pod machines, but it's not whisper-quiet. The noise lasts about 30 to 40 seconds.