I Spent a Long Time Overlooking Pod Machines, but After Testing Nespresso's Vertuo Next, I Was Impressed — It's Easy-to-Use, Affordable, and, as an Ex-Barista

Nespresso Vertuo Next on a countertop with the Aeroccino and cups of coffee around it.

I may be a dedicated espresso machine lover, but recently my head has been turned. I can no longer stand idle while pod machines are slandered, because they can, in fact, make a very decent cup of coffee. This week I tried the Nespresso Vertuo Next machine and my new-found love for a pod coffee was yet again confirmed. This is a device that prioritizes convenience and affordability without sacrificing flavor. And what's so bad about that?

Coffee pod machines, of course, aren't going to give you that barista-like coffee-making experience — there is no group head, portafilter, and typically no steaming wand. However, a thick crema layer and a range of drink choices in less than two minutes? That, they can do. The Nespresso Vertuo Next machine specifically utilizes Nespresso's advanced extraction technology, which I found elevated the crema and espresso shot quality.