Breville Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus : Having used both the Breville Nespresso Vertuo and the VertuoPlus, I can confidently say that both machines excel at delivering high-quality espresso with a rich, thick crema. However, if I had to pick one, I would lean toward the VertuoPlus due to its added convenience and automated features.
The VertuoPlus stands out for its user-friendly design and thoughtful automation. Features like the motorized brew head and automatic capsule ejection make brewing a seamless experience. Its adjustable and detachable water tank is another highlight, adding flexibility and ease when refilling or fitting the machine into different spaces.
That said, the Breville Nespresso Vertuo is also a strong contender. It delivers the same excellent coffee quality but stands out for its speed. With a heat-up time of just 15 seconds, it’s perfect for anyone who values efficiency in their morning routine.
While both machines have their merits, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize convenience and design flexibility (VertuoPlus) or speed and simplicity (Vertuo).
Breville Nespresso Vertuo vs Vertuoplus Comparison
The Breville Nespresso VertuoPlus BNV450IBL and the Breville Vertuo BNV220BLK offer different features tailored to varying preferences. The VertuoPlus has dimensions of 16.2 x 5.6 x 12.8 inches and is made of plastic, available in an ink-black color, weighing 13.55 pounds. On the other hand, the Vertuo is more compact at 8.32 x 11.91 x 11.93 inches, combining metal and plastic materials in a sleek black finish, and weighs 12 pounds.
In terms of water tank capacity, the VertuoPlus stands out with a larger 60 oz tank compared to the Vertuo’s 40 oz capacity. The VertuoPlus offers four cup size settings (1.35, 5, 8, and 14 oz), while the Vertuo supports two (8 oz and 1.35 oz). Both models feature adjustable cup supports and use CENTRIFUSION™ technology for brewing, but their capsule container capacities differ: the VertuoPlus holds 10 used capsules, while the Vertuo can accommodate 13–20 capsules.
When it comes to performance, the VertuoPlus heats up in 20 seconds with a power rating of 1300 watts, while the Vertuo heats up faster at 15 seconds and uses 1350 watts of power. Both machines include an auto-off feature after 9 minutes of inactivity, one-touch operation, and a 1-year warranty.
Additional highlights of the VertuoPlus include its extra-large swivel water tank, more crema-infused coffee options, and compatibility with the Aeroccino Plus milk frother for quick and automatic frothing. The Vertuo, however, excels in delivering hot coffee or espresso without pre-warming, with a quick heat-up time and minimal noise. Both machines offer sturdy designs with adjustable drip trays and convenient brewing features.
The VertuoPlus is priced at $173.99, while the Vertuo comes at a slightly lower price of $153.96.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo vs Vertuoplus: Differences
In this comparison, the Breville VertuoPlus narrowly falls short to the Breville Nespresso Vertuo, which takes the lead with a score of 2-1. Let’s break down the details to see why.
POWER
The Winner: Breville Nespresso Vertuo
When it comes to power, the Nespresso Vertuo edges ahead with 1350 watts, slightly outpacing the VertuoPlus at 1300 watts. While the difference may seem minor on paper, it does have an impact on performance.
The Vertuo impresses with its fast heat-up time, ready to brew in just 10-15 seconds. This is a fantastic advantage for those mornings when you’re in desperate need of coffee quickly. The VertuoPlus, while still quick, takes a little longer, heating up in about 20-25 seconds. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s something to consider if speed is a priority for you.
Another notable difference lies in the brewing temperature. The Vertuo’s higher power enables it to brew coffee at a slightly higher temperature than the VertuoPlus. For coffee lovers who enjoy their brew piping hot, this can be a deciding factor. However, it’s worth noting that neither machine delivers coffee as hot as some might prefer. If you like your coffee scorching, pre-warming your cup is a must to enhance the experience.
DESIGN & USABILITIES
The Winner: Breville Nespresso VertuoPlus
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
When it comes to size, the Breville Nespresso Vertuo is slightly more compact, with dimensions of 8.3″ x 11.9″ x 14.6″, compared to the VertuoPlus at 5.6″ x 16.7″ x 12.8″. In my small studio apartment, the Vertuo felt like it blended seamlessly into my limited kitchen space without taking over. Even though the VertuoPlus is a bit larger, it remains compact enough for most kitchens, and the difference in size wasn’t overwhelming.
Both machines are lightweight, with the Vertuo weighing 10.8 lbs and the VertuoPlus slightly lighter at 10.1 lbs. This makes them both easy to move around when I’m cleaning the counter or reorganizing. It’s a small but appreciated feature, as I don’t need to strain when relocating them.
COLOR OPTIONS
The Vertuo keeps it classic with three color options: Chrome, Black, and Matte Black. These are timeless choices that suit most kitchen aesthetics, like the dependable little black dress of coffee machines.
The VertuoPlus, however, takes customization to the next level with six vibrant options, including Silver, White, Black, Grey, Titan, and Ink Black. This variety allowed me to match the machine to my kitchen’s modern design while adding a pop of personality. For me, the broader color selection of the VertuoPlus was a clear winner, letting me express my style while enjoying my coffee.
WATER TANK
Both machines come equipped with a 40-ounce water tank, which easily meets my daily coffee needs without constant refilling. However, the VertuoPlus stands out with its adjustable water tank, which can be positioned in three different places – on the side or at the back – to fit your counter setup perfectly. This versatility, combined with the transparent design for easy water-level monitoring, makes it a more user-friendly choice.
The Vertuo’s water tank is also transparent, but its wavy design, while stylish, makes it slightly harder to gauge the water level at a glance. Although both are functional, the VertuoPlus offers better flexibility and practicality in this regard.
UTILITIES
The Winner: Breville Nespresso VertuoPlus
USER INTERFACE
Both machines boast an intuitive single-button interface. Whether I’m brewing coffee, cleaning, or descaling, one button handles it all. This simplicity ensures that even on groggy mornings, I can start my coffee with minimal effort.
AUTO-OFF
The auto-off feature, which powers down the machine after nine minutes of inactivity, is a lifesaver for someone like me who often forgets to turn appliances off. This energy-saving functionality not only cuts down on electricity bills but also gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door.
AUTOMATIC FEATURES
The VertuoPlus truly excels in automation. It features a motorized brew head that opens and closes with just a touch, eliminating the need to twist or turn a lid manually. On those bleary-eyed mornings when I’m barely awake, this feature feels like a little luxury.
Both machines also have an automatic capsule ejection feature, depositing used capsules into a built-in container after brewing. While the Vertuo shares this functionality, the VertuoPlus feels more seamless with its motorized lid and overall automation. These thoughtful touches might not be deal-breakers, but they make the coffee-making experience far more convenient, especially when I’m multitasking or short on time.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo vs VertuoPlus: Similarities
COFFEE PREPARATION
Both the Breville Nespresso Vertuo and VertuoPlus cater to four basic coffee sizes: single-shot espresso (1.35 oz), double-shot espresso (2.7 oz), Gran Lungo (5 oz), and full-sized coffee (7.77 oz). For someone like me, who loves a bit of variety in the daily coffee routine, these options provide a decent range. What’s great is that you can reprogram the cup sizes by simply pressing and holding the button, tailoring each brew to your cravings.
However, a notable limitation is being locked into using only Nespresso-brand pods. While this ensures compatibility and quality, it restricts the opportunity to explore other coffee brands or blends. If you’re someone who loves experimenting, this might feel like a drawback. Still, within the Nespresso ecosystem, these machines deliver a satisfying and customizable coffee experience.
COFFEE FLAVOR & BREWING TECHNIQUE
CENTRIFUSION TECHNOLOGY
Both machines ditch traditional pumps in favor of Nespresso’s Centrifusion technology. Here’s how it works: as brewing begins, the machine punctures about 20 tiny holes around the edge of the coffee pod, injects water, and spins the pod at a dizzying speed of 7,000 RPM. This creates a coffee tornado that ensures optimal water distribution and produces a rich, velvety crema – a real treat for any coffee lover.
These machines also feature capsule scanning technology that reads barcodes on each coffee capsule. This nifty system programs key brewing parameters like temperature, rotational speed, flow rate, and water-to-coffee contact time, ensuring a consistent and precise brew every time.
FLAVOR
In terms of flavor, the espresso shots from both machines are bold and strong, reminiscent of traditional brewers but not quite on the same level of finesse. The crema layer is a standout feature – thick, airy, and more like cappuccino foam than the denser crema from pump-powered brewers. While purists might find it less authentic, I find it adds a unique charm to the coffee.
One thing to note is the coffee’s temperature. While it’s certainly hot, it’s not the piping-hot, tongue-scorching temperature that some might prefer. If you’re a fan of scalding-hot coffee, this might be a minor letdown. However, for most coffee enthusiasts, the flavor and texture more than make up for it.
Quick Overview of Breville Nespresso VertuoPlus
The Breville Nespresso VertuoPlus is designed to deliver a single-serve coffee or espresso at the touch of a button, making it a perfect addition for anyone who loves a hassle-free coffee experience. It boasts features like a fast 25-second heat-up time and an energy-saving automatic shut-off, ensuring both convenience and efficiency. This versatile machine lets you brew four cup sizes, including 5 oz and 8 oz coffee or single and double espresso shots. You can even pour your brew over ice to create your favorite iced coffee or lattes.
One of the standout additions is the Aeroccino3 Milk Frother, included with the machine. This handy device whips up smooth hot or cold milk froth in seconds, perfect for elevating your coffee recipes. Plus, the machine comes with a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules, allowing you to explore a variety of flavors right out of the box. Its adjustable water tank placement adds flexibility for tight spaces, making it a functional and stylish choice for home coffee lovers.
Pros:
- Centrifusion technology creates coffee with a deep, rich crema and bold flavor.
- Automated capsule ejection and a motorized brewing head simplify the brewing process.
- The adjustable water tank adds convenience for different kitchen setups.
- Heats up quickly for a seamless coffee experience.
Cons:
- Coffee isn’t as piping hot as some might prefer.
- Limited to Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which restricts pod variety.
Quick Overview of Breville Nespresso Vertuo
The Breville Nespresso Vertuo is another fantastic single-serve coffee and espresso maker that operates with just one button. Like the VertuoPlus, it offers a fast heat-up time of 25 seconds and an automatic shut-off feature, making it a practical and energy-efficient option for home use. This machine also brews four cup sizes: 5 oz and 8 oz coffee, along with single and double espresso shots. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys bold, mild, hot, or iced coffee brewed effortlessly.
This model features a 40-ounce water tank and a container that holds up to 13 used pods, reducing the need for constant emptying. The included complimentary Nespresso capsules starter pack lets you sample a variety of coffee blends right away. Its sleek, compact design makes it an excellent choice for kitchens with limited counter space.
Pros:
- Centrifusion technology ensures a rich coffee flavor with a luxurious crema.
- Heats up faster than the VertuoPlus, thanks to its higher power output.
- Quick brewing process saves time on busy mornings.
Cons:
- The coffee temperature is lukewarm rather than piping hot.
- Limited to Nespresso Vertuo capsules, reducing pod flexibility.
Conclusion:
Both the Breville Nespresso Vertuo and VertuoPlus are excellent choices for coffee lovers who value convenience, versatility, and premium coffee quality. They share several standout features, including Centrifusion technology for a rich crema, fast heat-up times, and a user-friendly one-button operation. However, subtle differences make each machine appeal to different preferences.
The VertuoPlus shines with its sleek, adjustable design, automated capsule ejection, and motorized brew head, making it a winner for those who prioritize convenience and aesthetics. On the other hand, the Vertuo edges ahead in speed and power, heating up faster and delivering slightly hotter coffee, which is ideal for those who value efficiency.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your priorities. If you want a more customizable design and effortless operation, go for the VertuoPlus. But if speed and slightly hotter coffee are your main considerations, the Vertuo is the better fit. Either way, you’re investing in a top-tier machine that makes brewing high-quality coffee at home a breeze.