Let’s dive into the battle between the De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini and the Vertuo Next to see which one delivers better espressos and coffees. After testing both machines, my clear winner is the Essenza Mini.
The Essenza Mini shines with its compact design and powerful espresso extraction. It offers impressive temperature control, producing flavorful coffee with consistency. I particularly appreciate its convenient features like Eco Mode, making it user-friendly and reliable. Everything about this machine has been steady and dependable in my experience.
On the other hand, the Vertuo Next has its merits, delivering good espresso quality and including some handy extra features. However, it falls short in a couple of areas: the coffee temperature doesn’t quite hit the mark, and I’ve noticed some issues with leaking. While it has potential, it doesn’t match the Essenza Mini’s overall performance.
Keep reading to dive deeper into the specifics of each machine!
Nespresso Essenza Mini vs Vertuo Next: Specs & Features Comparison
When comparing the De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini and the De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Next, it’s clear they cater to different needs while maintaining quality.
The Essenza Mini stands out for its ultra-compact design, making it a perfect fit for small spaces. With a 20.3 oz water tank and a weight of just 2.3 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to handle. It delivers a balanced and nuanced espresso flavor, heats up in just 25 seconds, and operates quietly. Additional features like Eco mode after 3 minutes and automatic power-off after 9 minutes add to its convenience. Priced at $129.99, it’s a sleek, simple, and efficient choice for espresso lovers.
The Vertuo Next, on the other hand, offers versatility with five cup sizes, including espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, coffee, and alto. Its 37.2 oz water tank and recycled plastic build reflect a commitment to sustainability, though it is significantly heavier at 8.8 pounds. The machine’s fast heat-up time and one-touch operation make brewing easy, and it accommodates various cup sizes. However, at $155.70, it’s slightly more expensive and may not be ideal for those with limited counter space.
Both machines deliver excellent coffee quality, but the choice depends on whether you prioritize compact design and simplicity (Essenza Mini) or versatility and larger capacity (Vertuo Next).
Nespresso Essenza Mini vs Vertuo Next: Differences
De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini wins 2 to 1 and 1 tie against De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Next. Check out for more details.
COFFEE FLAVOR
The Winner: De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini
HEATING SYSTEM
Both the De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini and De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Next are equipped with Thermoblock heating systems, which heat water to the optimal brewing temperature. However, their performance in maintaining beverage temperature differs significantly in practice.
De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini: Consistently Warm Brews
The Essenza Mini delivers drinks at an ideal temperature range of 165–170°F, provided I take the time to preheat the cup or ensure the water is sufficiently hot. This temperature is perfect for immediate enjoyment without being too hot to handle. While the machine claims a rapid warm-up time of just 25 seconds, I’ve found that letting it heat for an additional 2–5 minutes results in even better temperature consistency. Whether it’s espresso or lungo, the drinks are warm enough to enjoy comfortably and maintain their flavors.
De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Next: Needs Temperature Improvement
The Vertuo Next, while efficient in other areas, falls slightly short in terms of beverage temperature. It typically produces drinks at around 160°F, which might be adequate for quick consumption but feels a bit too cool for those who prefer a more leisurely coffee experience. To make up for this, preheating the cup can help retain warmth, but the temperature still lacks the extra punch needed for a perfectly satisfying espresso.
BREWING TECHNIQUE
The Essenza Mini relies on a traditional 19-bar pump system, while the Vertuo Next uses Centrifusion technology for espresso extraction. Although both machines deliver espresso with flavors that are fresh, nuanced, and well-balanced, the texture of the drinks sets them apart.
With the Essenza Mini, the espresso has a lighter texture. The crema is well-balanced—neither too thick nor too thin—making for a smooth and enjoyable drink. On the other hand, the Vertuo Next provides a richer, fuller-bodied mouthfeel. However, its crema tends to be excessive, resembling coffee foam more than the silky layer of crema typically expected from espresso. While this might appeal to some, it can overpower the drinking experience for others.
DESIGN
The Winner: De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Next
The Essenza Mini stands out with its compact and space-saving design, making it a great addition to small kitchens, dorms, or studio apartments. Its lightweight build, thanks to the plastic construction, adds to its portability and convenience. While stainless steel might be a sturdier and more damage-resistant material, it’s rare to find machines in this price range made entirely of stainless steel. For its affordability, plastic proves to be a practical and reliable choice.
The Vertuo Next, however, takes a step further by incorporating recycled plastic in its design, which I find impressive. Not only is it lightweight, but it’s also notably durable. If sustainability and environmental consciousness are priorities for you, the Vertuo Next offers a thoughtful and eco-friendly option without compromising functionality.
DRINK SIZE & COMPATIBLE CAPSULES
The Winner: Tie
The Essenza Mini offers two drink size options: Espresso (1.35 oz) and Lungo (5 oz). On the other hand, the Vertuo Next provides greater variety, accommodating five sizes: Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Coffee, and Alto.
However, the Vertuo Next uses proprietary Nespresso pods, which may limit your options as they are exclusive to the Vertuo line. In contrast, the Essenza Mini, which works with OriginalLine espresso pods, offers more versatility. Its compatibility with third-party capsules means you have a wider range of choices and the potential for cost savings.
CLEANING & MAINTAINANCE
The Winner: De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini
Cleaning these Nespresso machines is straightforward, especially with the Essenza Mini. Both machines allow descaling and cleaning through their brewing buttons, making maintenance easy even with regular use for espressos and coffees.
For the Essenza Mini, De’Longhi assures that descaling alone is sufficient, eliminating the need for cleaning capsules. To start the descaling process, simply hold the Espresso and Lungo buttons for 5 seconds. However, I recommend using cleaning capsules once a week to ensure the brew path remains free from mold or residue for optimal performance.
The Vertuo Next also simplifies the process. To begin the cleaning or rinsing cycle, press the brewing button on top three times. For descaling, hold the button for 7 seconds. Both machines are designed to make regular maintenance hassle-free and efficient.
Quick Overview of DeLonghi Nespresso Essenza Mini
The Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi is compact, user-friendly, and delivers impressive espresso quality despite its small size.
Features:
- Offers 2 programmable cup sizes: Espresso and Lungo.
- Equipped with a 19-bar high-pressure pump for barista-style flavor and aroma.
- Heats up quickly, reaching the ideal brewing temperature in just 25 seconds.
- Includes an automatic shut-off feature that activates 9 minutes after the last use.
- Compatible with Nespresso OriginalLine espresso capsules.
Price:
Originally priced at $169.00, now available at $129.99 after a discount.
Pros:
- Eco mode activates after 3 minutes, and it shuts off automatically after 9 minutes.
- Ultra-compact design with a small footprint, perfect for tight spaces.
- Delivers a balanced and nuanced espresso flavor.
- Operates quietly and brews quickly.
- Simple, sleek design and affordable pricing.
- Heats up exceptionally fast.
Cons:
- Entirely made of plastic, which may feel less durable.
Quick Overview of DeLonghi Nespresso Vertuo Next
The Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi combines versatility and sustainability with its ability to brew multiple coffee sizes and eco-friendly materials.
Features:
- Brews a variety of coffee formats in 6 sizes, including 5, 8, 12, and 18 oz coffees, as well as single and double espressos.
- Compact, slim design (only 5.5 inches wide) made from partially recycled materials.
- Offers precision brewing for smooth, full-bodied coffee with a velvety crema layer.
- Includes a complimentary tasting pack of Vertuo capsules.
- Capsules are fully recyclable through Nespresso’s free recycling program.
Price:
Originally priced at $179.00, now available at $155.70 after a discount.
Pros:
- Quiet brewing operation.
- Accommodates a wide range of cup sizes.
- Consistently brews coffee with a thick, creamy layer of crema.
- Maintains stable brewing temperature for a satisfying cup.
Cons:
- Occasional leaking issues, requiring extra effort to clean.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Nespresso Essenza Mini and the Vertuo Next depends on your priorities in a coffee machine. Both models cater to specific needs and offer unique advantages, but one may suit your lifestyle better than the other.
The Essenza Mini shines for its simplicity, compact size, and consistent espresso quality. It is perfect for those who enjoy traditional espresso and Lungo without the need for an extensive range of coffee options. With its 19-bar pump pressure, this machine delivers barista-style espressos with nuanced flavor and balanced crema. The small footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, and its compatibility with Nespresso OriginalLine capsules ensures a wide selection of coffee, including third-party options. The quick heat-up time and energy-saving features make it a reliable and eco-friendly choice.
On the other hand, the Vertuo Next is more versatile and caters to coffee drinkers who love variety. Its ability to brew multiple cup sizes, from single espresso to large coffee servings, is a key advantage. The Centrifusion technology produces a thicker crema, though some might find it more like foam than authentic crema. Made with partially recycled materials, it appeals to eco-conscious users. However, its reliance on Nespresso’s exclusive Vertuo capsules limits pod options compared to the Essenza Mini, and occasional leaking issues may require extra maintenance.
Ultimately, the Essenza Mini is best for those who value simplicity, affordability, and versatility with capsules. Meanwhile, the Vertuo Next is a better fit for those who prioritize variety, sustainability, and a larger cup size range. Both machines excel in different areas, so your decision should reflect your coffee preferences and daily habits.