Nespresso Vertuo Next vs Plus: Which one is Best for You?

So, you’re debating between Nespresso Vertuo Next vs. Plus? Both machines look similar, but they have significant differences. The Vertuo Plus has an automatic open for pods and a rotating water tank, while the Vertuo Next can brew an 18 oz carafe coffee and has Wi-Fi connectivity.

My overall vote goes to the Vertuo Plus because of the convenient tank and slightly better value. The Vertuo Next is a good option if you want the 18 oz carafe option and the latest technology. However, some Nespresso aficionados had issues with the Vertuo Next, which I’ll address in this article.

I’ve bought and used both of these Nespresso machines, so I’ll dive into Nespresso Next vs. Plus similarities and differences, so you can decide which Nespresso Vertuo machine is better for you.

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Nespresso Vertuo Next vs Plus: Feature Breakdown

The most important features to compare are the different designs and programmability between the two machines.

Design And Build

The Vertuo Plus came out first in 2017, and Vertuo Next followed in 2020, so Next has a somewhat more modern design. Keep in mind, that there are design differences between DeLonghi and Breville machines for each model, where Breville has a rounded top on the Vertuo Plus and different colors on the Vertuo Next.

In general, Nespresso machines have a compact size that doesn’t take up too much space, which is also the case with Vertuo Next and Plus. All the key components are located at the front, so it’s easy to use, clean, and maintain the coffee maker.

That being said, the Vertuo Next is a newer model, so it has a more modern design compared to Plus. Vertuo Next comes with a larger brewing chamber, which is wider at the top and slimmer below, but the water tank pays the price for this — it’s 37 oz compared to 40 oz for the Plus. Vertuo Plus has a sleek shape and a round look, with the spout sticking out. Overall, Vertuo Next is more compact and will fit into tight spaces more easily.

Both Nespresso machines have a drip tray, but the one on Vertuo Plus is larger than the one on Vertuo Next. You can change the height of the drip tray or remove it to fit larger coffee mugs.

Aesthetic is always a matter of preference, but my impression is that Vertuo Next looks like one compact machine, while Vertuo Plus looks like a coffee machine with an add-on accessory due to the adjustable water tank platform.

Size, Weight, And Durability

Here’s how these espresso machines compare in terms of size and weight: Vertuo Plus is wider than Vertuo Next. The height is the same (16.8 inches). The Vertuo Next weighs 8.8 pounds, while Plus weighs 9.7 pounds.

Both coffee machines are made of plastic, which is to be expected considering the affordable price of Nespresso coffee machines. One difference is that Nespresso used 54% recycled plastic in manufacturing Vertuo Next, so it’s a good option if you’re concerned about the environmental impact.

Does The Vertuo Next Have A Leak Issue?
I want to address one issue: there are many reports that the Vertuo Next leaks water. I’ve noticed this on social media including Facebook and Reddit. Even on Nespresso’s own website there’s a big discrepancy in user ratings: the Vertuo Plus is rated 4.6 while Vertuo Next is 3.0 (the lowest of the lineup). Lastly, there have been an oddly high number of used Vertuo Next’s for sale on my local apps.

To be clear, I didn’t have issues with the Vertuo Next build, and I think it’s durable, but it’s only been a few weeks. I want to point out the leak issue because it’s come up enough that Craft Coffee Spot readers should be aware of before choosing.

For what it’s worth, Nespresso customer service has helped deal with complaints and even replaced machines with leaks. Lastly, you can find a leak complaint on almost every coffee and espresso machine, so be aware that this can happen.

Lid Functionality

The opening system for the machine head is another large difference between the two machines, where the Plus is automatic while the Next is manual.

The Vertuo Plus has a motorized lid to open the machine head. All you need to do is gently push up the lever, and the top opens up. You place the pod inside and then tap the lever down for the head to close. You’ll hear it poke the pod and that’s all you need.

The Vertuo Next has a spring-loaded lid. You have to slide the clip to unlock it, and the top springs open. Then load the pod, push down the head, and slide the clip back to the lock position. I consider the Next process more of a manual system that requires non-trivial effort.

We’re not talking about loading a portafilter style of process, but honestly, it’s sort of close. You get the Nespresso for ease and the Next falls short here.

Coffee Brewing And Taste

Nespresso Vertuo machines use centrifusion technology, which spins the capsules 7,000 times per minute to blend the coffee and hot water for a delicious end result.

When it comes to coffee brewing, both coffee machines can make a single cup of coffee in about 25 seconds from inserting the pod until the coffee maker starts brewing. Overall, you won’t wait for more than a minute for your coffee to be ready. The Vertuo Next has a louder pump than the Plus. Running the Next was closer to flying on an airplane.

Nespresso Vertuo Plus and Next can brew:

• Espresso
• Double espresso
• Gran Lungo
• Coffee

However, there are also 18 oz pour-over carafe pods, which are exclusively compatible with Nespresso Vertuo Next.

In terms of coffee taste, both Vertuo machines make perfectly blended coffee. But, my vote goes to Nespresso Vertuo Plus because it can make better crema. It’s creamier and more consistent. Also, this machine makes hotter coffee compared to the Next.

Hypothetically, the taste should be near-identical because both machines use the same VertuoLine technology. However, I found Vertuo Next coffee has a more bitter flavor, while the Vertuo Plus coffee tastes a little sweeter, especially if you make a milk drink. I noticed Nespresso Vertuo Next takes about 10 seconds longer to brew coffee compared to Nespresso Vertuo Plus, which could mean that Vertuo Next extracts more flavors. This results in a bitter drink with a bubblier, more aerated crema.

Value

Nespresso Vertuo Next is Nespresso’s slightly pricier option as it costs a little more than the Plus (as a general rule). Both devices have a very similar, almost equal performance. They both have similar brewing speeds and automatic capsule ejection.

However, Next’s higher price tag is because this newer model includes features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

However, Nespresso Vertuo Plus has an adjustable water tank and a larger water reservoir.

My vote for value winner goes to Vertuo Plus. I don’t believe the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity that Next has is worth the higher price tag, considering it’s pretty basic.

Of course, the final decision is up to you and what fits your needs and lifestyle best. You should check around for the latest price, as I found the Plus was cheaper than the Next on Nespresso’s site but pricier on Breville’s.

Recommendation and Who Is Each For

Overall, my vote goes to the Nespresso Vertuo Plus. It is the coffee maker if you want an extremely user-friendly coffee machine, as it has a motorized opening and closing system. It’s also a good option if you’re short on counter space, as it has an adjustable water reservoir and large storage for used capsules.

The Nespresso Vertuo Next is the coffee maker for users who want a compact device with a modern and sleek design, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and an option to make 18 oz carafe coffee. However, be warned that the durability is questionable based on numerous reviews.

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Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API