Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville review for home brewing enthusiasts

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

I’ve got to say, the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville is a real stunner in terms of design. It looks like something straight out of a modern kitchen showroom. The sleek black finish combined with its compact dimensions (6″ D x 17″ W x 13″ H) makes it an elegant addition to any countertop without hogging up too much space. One feature that stood out to me was the movable water tank. Depending on how your counter is laid out, you can adjust the tank to fit your setup. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes this machine more versatile. The motorized brew head adds a touch of techy sophistication, smoothly gliding open and closed with just a light press.

While the overall build feels sturdy, it’s worth noting the machine is a bit on the lighter side. At 10.14 pounds, you might feel the need to hold it steady while inserting capsules. It’s nothing major, but still something I noticed during use.

Ease of Use and Functionality

This coffee maker is ridiculously easy to use, which is perfect for someone like me who doesn’t want to fumble with complicated machines early in the morning. The fully automatic operation mode and simple button interface mean all you need to do is pop in a capsule, press a button, and wait for the magic to happen. The programmable features are a nice bonus, letting you tweak your setup if you want a more personalized brew.

The Centrifusion technology is where things get really interesting. It spins the capsule at up to 7,000 rotations per minute, blending the coffee grounds and water to create a rich crema. I’m no coffee scientist, but the end result is a smooth, delicious cup every single time. Whether I was brewing an 8 oz. coffee or a 1.35 oz. espresso, the machine automatically adjusted to the capsule’s barcode for optimal brewing.

Key Benefits

• Versatile brewing capabilities: Makes 4 different cup sizes, including single and double espresso.
• Quick heat-up time: Ready to brew in just 25 seconds.
• Energy-saving mode: Automatic shut-off after inactivity.
• Complimentary capsule set: A great way to test out different flavors.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited to Nespresso capsules: You can’t use your own coffee grounds, which might be a downside for some.
• Capsule waste: While the capsules are recyclable, it does add a layer of effort to dispose of them responsibly.
• Pricey capsules: They’re not the cheapest option, especially if you’re a heavy coffee drinker.

Coffee Quality and Performance

The coffee quality from this machine is honestly some of the best I’ve had from a home brewer. The barcode-specific brewing system ensures each blend is brewed perfectly. I tried everything from bold espressos to mild coffees, and every cup tasted like it came straight from a café.

One thing I loved was how well it handled iced coffee. Pouring a freshly brewed cup over ice didn’t dilute the flavor at all, giving me a refreshing yet robust drink. The crema on espressos was thick and velvety, adding that professional touch I usually only get at coffee shops.

What surprised me was how quiet this thing is. Even while spinning the capsules at dizzying speeds, the noise level was impressively low. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a big difference when everyone else in the house is still asleep.

Competing Products

Comparing this to other coffee makers like the Keurig K-Elite or the Breville Bambino, the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe stands out for its Centrifusion technology and ability to produce genuine crema. While the Keurig might offer more flexibility with ground coffee and a larger variety of pods, it doesn’t quite match the premium taste and texture you get from the Vertuo.

On the flip side, the Breville Bambino excels in crafting authentic espresso with freshly ground beans, but it lacks the simplicity and convenience of the capsule system. If you’re after a balance of quality and ease of use, the Vertuo Plus is a clear winner. However, if being tied to proprietary capsules is a dealbreaker, you might want to explore other options.

Value for Money

This coffee machine might not be the cheapest option out there, but it offers excellent value for the price if you’re looking for café-quality coffee at home. The complimentary starter set of capsules sweetens the deal, letting you explore various flavors without extra cost.

Considering the energy-saving features, premium build, and consistent coffee quality, I’d say this is a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers who appreciate convenience and don’t mind sticking to capsules. However, if you’re on a tight budget or drink coffee excessively, the cost of capsules could add up over time.

Highlights

• Modern design with a movable water tank for flexible placement.
• Centrifusion technology ensures consistent coffee quality.
• Quiet operation even during high-speed brewing.
• Complimentary capsule set for a variety of flavor options.

Additional information