Breville Nespresso VertuoPlus Review The Best Single-Serve Coffee and Espresso Maker

Description

A Coffee Lover’s Experience with the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe and Aeroccino Milk Frother

The Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville, Titan with Aeroccino Milk Frother has been a game-changer for my mornings. As someone who adores coffee but doesn’t always have the energy to wrestle with traditional espresso machines, this compact and efficient device caught my eye. After testing it out, I’ve got a lot to share—both the good and the not-so-great.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the sleek and modern design of this machine stood out. Its Titan color finish adds an elegant touch that blends beautifully with my kitchen decor. The machine’s dimensions, 10.8″ D x 14.75″ W x 15.5″ H, make it compact enough to fit snugly on my counter without taking up excessive space. The adjustable tray is a thoughtful addition, accommodating various cup sizes with ease.

One thing I appreciated was the 60 oz. water reservoir, which is not only large but also swivels, making it incredibly convenient to fill and position. The construction feels solid, and at 10.14 pounds, it’s sturdy without being a hassle to move. While I loved the premium feel, I did notice that the plastic components could feel a bit fragile if handled carelessly.

Ease of Use and Features

This machine is all about simplicity. Brewing coffee or espresso is as easy as inserting a capsule, pressing a button, and waiting for the magic to happen. The Centrifusion extraction technology is a standout feature here. It reads the barcode on each capsule and adjusts the brewing parameters automatically. Whether I’m craving a 1.35 oz Espresso, a 2.7 oz Double Espresso, a 5 oz Gran Lungo, or a 7.7 oz Coffee, the machine never disappoints.

The Aeroccino3 milk frother might just be my favorite part. It creates smooth, creamy froth for both hot and cold beverages, perfect for lattes or iced coffee. The frother works quietly and efficiently, which is a plus for early mornings when everyone else is still asleep.

Highlights

• Versatility: The ability to brew four different cup sizes is perfect for households with varied preferences.
• Speed: The 15-20 second heat-up time ensures I’m not waiting around for my caffeine fix.
• Energy Efficiency: The auto shutoff after 9 minutes is a thoughtful touch for saving energy.
• Capsule Ejection: The machine automatically ejects capsules post-brewing, and the used capsule container holds up to 17 pods—super convenient!

Areas of Concern

While I’ve been impressed overall, there are a few things that stood out as minor annoyances:

• The cost of the capsules can add up over time, especially if you’re a heavy coffee drinker like me.
• Despite the automatic barcode system, you’re locked into using Nespresso’s proprietary pods, which limits flexibility.
• The frother, while excellent, can sometimes be tricky to clean, especially if milk residue isn’t rinsed off immediately.

Performance and Taste

When it comes to taste, this machine excels. The rich, aromatic flavors of the coffee are on par with what I’d get from a high-end café. The included starter set of capsules allowed me to experiment with different blends, and I found myself gravitating toward the bold, intense options. However, the machine sometimes struggled with consistent crema on the espresso, which might bother purists.

The quiet operation is another big win. Whether I’m brewing a quick espresso shot or a full cup of coffee, the noise level is minimal, making it ideal for early mornings or late nights.

Winning Points

• High-quality coffee and espresso at the touch of a button.
• User-friendly and quick to operate.
• Aeroccino3 frother adds versatility for crafting lattes and cappuccinos at home.

Negative Attributes

• Limited to Nespresso capsules, which might not appeal to those who prefer third-party pods.
• Plastic components might not have the longevity of metal alternatives.

Competing Products

Comparing the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe to its competitors like the Keurig K-Café or the De’Longhi Dedica Espresso Machine, it holds its own in several areas. The VertuoPlus shines in capsule-specific brewing, ensuring every cup is tailored to the coffee type. On the other hand, Keurig offers greater flexibility with pod compatibility, while De’Longhi caters more to manual espresso enthusiasts who enjoy tweaking grind sizes and tamping pressure.

If you prioritize ease of use and consistent quality, the VertuoPlus is a fantastic choice. However, if flexibility or traditional espresso-making is more your thing, one of the alternatives might be better suited.

Value for Money

When weighing the features against the price, this coffee maker hits a sweet spot. While the upfront cost might seem steep, the convenience, speed, and quality it offers make it a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers. The Aeroccino3 frother is a bonus that adds significant value, as it eliminates the need for a separate milk frothing device.

For anyone who enjoys café-quality drinks at home without the hassle of manual brewing, this product offers excellent value for the price. However, the long-term expense of Nespresso capsules should be considered before committing.

The Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker has become a staple in my daily routine, delivering rich, flavorful coffee with minimal effort. While it’s not without its quirks, its strengths far outweigh the limitations, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking convenience and quality in one sleek package.

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