We all know that Nespresso makes some of the best coffee makers on the market, so I was excited to be able to try out the Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee machine. I'm a big coffee lover, but I like to keep it simple. I've always wanted to test one of the best espresso machines, but I didn't want one that requires you to grind your own beans. I'm not a trained barista after all, and often find that pod coffee machines deliver the same delicious results whilst fitting into my often rushed morning routine.
That's why the Nespresso Vertuo Next was the perfect match for me; the pods offered varied flavor and intensity options, and I could choose between either single espresso, double espresso, Gran-Lungo, carafe, or mug-sized coffees without altering the settings, or any other extra work on my behalf. This is because Nespresso Vertuo machines use a unique auto pod recognition technology. By reading the barcode of each individual Vertuo pod that's inserted into the machine, Vertuo Next crafts the exact corresponding size and strength of coffee for you. So you have your favorite drink poured straight into your cup, all done at the press of a button, with no messy coffee grounds to deal with afterward.
The only drawback to this machine is that there's no milk frothing option, as I appreciate that most users would like to have that option in order to create frothed drinks like cappuccinos. However, I didn't really mind, as it kept the coffee-making process extremely quick and simple. This did lead, however, to the only negative thing I have to say about this machine, and the sole reason I can't give it five stars: that is that this machine seems more geared towards espresso drinkers and those who prefer to drink their coffee black; if you add milk, it messes up the temperature as each shot is brewed to the perfect temperature to be drunk straight away. I often found that this led to a mug of lukewarm coffee that then needed to be heated in the microwave.
If that doesn't throw you off, or if you're a diehard black coffee drinker, then keep on reading for more information on the Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee machine.
Nespresso Vertuo Next: Key specs
Nespresso Vertuo Next: Price & availability
The Nespresso Vertuo Next, available in a sleek and modern design, can be purchased directly from the Nespresso website. It is currently priced at $189.00 and comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, and red. The same machine is also available on Amazon for $134, and you can find it at Target for $179.
Score: 4/5
Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee Machine: First impressions
Not too long ago, I got to test a different Nespresso coffee machine, the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima. Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the Nespresso Vertuo Next machine was incredibly similar to the former, right down to the design. The only thing the Vertuo Next didn't have was the milk frother.
The Vertuo Next came with a selection box of 12 different strength and flavor Vertuo coffee pods, and to my surprise, five additional boxes of Vertuo coffee pods of the 'Vivida' variety; thanks, Nespresso!
I was impressed by the amount of cardboard packaging used for shipment, which is eco-friendly, and the machine itself was beautifully designed and packaged. I couldn't wait to set it up and try out some new coffee flavors.
The Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee Machine is compact and easy to lift, so I had no trouble finding space for it on my countertop. Its sleek and modern design, along with the matte black colorway, made it stand out in a good way. It fits perfectly into my kitchen decor, even though my other appliances are not the same color.
However, since the machine projects quite far forward due to the water tank at the back, it's best to clear some space for it. I recommend making sure it's not hampered by shelves or cabinets above it, as this machine uses a mechanism that lifts up to reveal the coffee pod receptacle.
Setting up the Vertuo Next was a breeze. All I had to do was plug it in and follow the user manual to get started. To connect to the machine, I downloaded the Nespresso app and connected it via Bluetooth. If you don't have an account yet, you'll need to set one up, but there's a QR code on the box that takes you straight to the app store to download the app.
To make setup even easier, the user manual has helpful QR codes that you can scan with your smartphone to access setup videos on the Nespresso YouTube channel. These videos show you how to set up your machine, rinse it out during the first use, and adjust the water hardness.
Like with most coffee machines, I gave my Nespresso Vertuo Next a thorough rinse before first use. After filling the water tank to the max line, I attached it to the machine body and placed a travel coffee mug under the coffee outlet. To turn on the machine, I pressed the main coffee button on top and waited for the light to blink while the machine heated up. This only took about 30 seconds, so I wasn't kept waiting long.
The setup process was pretty self-explanatory, even though the machine has few buttons. If you've owned a Nespresso machine before, they all work in a similar way. To start the rinsing process, you have to press the main coffee button three times within 2 seconds. The light on top will blink orange to let you know the machine is busy, and the whole process lasts about 5 minutes.
After rinsing, I washed all separate components in warm, soapy water. Although this can be done in the top rack of your dishwasher, I prefer to wash them by hand. The separate parts made it a bit fiddly, and it took me a bit of time to figure out how to put all the parts back together again once they were dry.
When setting up the Nespresso Vertuo Next, you'll find a water hardness test strip in the Quick Start Guide. Simply dip the strip into fresh water from your faucet for a second, let it dry, and the colored squares on the strip will indicate how hard your water is. This is important information to input into the app, as it affects the performance and longevity of the machine over time.
To start the descaling process, press and hold the hot foam button (which looks like a cloud) until both the clean and descale alerts blink orange together. Within 15 seconds, press the cappuccino button (the smaller coffee cup icon). The machine will remember the water hardness input you provided earlier and confirm it by blinking three times rapidly.
However, if you've already input the water hardness level in the app, the machine may skip this step. It's important to monitor the performance of the machine to ensure that it's functioning properly, especially if you have hard water.
Nespresso Vertuo Next: Design
The Nespresso Vertuo Next has a more compact design with dimensions of 5.5 x 16.9 x 12.4 in, making it even more space-saving than the Lattissima. It also has a modern and sleek design like the Lattissima but with a more rounded shape and a matte finish that's available in a variety of colors to match your kitchen décor.
One of the standout features of the Vertuo Next is its ability to brew five different cup sizes, ranging from a 1.35 oz espresso to a 14 oz Alto. This is one more cup size than the Lattissima, which can brew four sizes. The Vertuo Next also uses a different brewing technology called Centrifusion, which spins the coffee capsule at high speeds to extract a rich and smooth flavor.
Another difference between the two machines is that the Vertuo Next doesn't include a milk frother as the Lattissima does. However, you can purchase a separate Aeroccino milk frother to make lattes and cappuccinos with the Vertuo Next.
Score: 4/5
Nespresso Vertuo Next: Performance
One thing I noticed during testing was that the Vertuo pods are larger and come in different shapes compared to the classic Nespresso pods. But brewing coffee with the Vertuo Next was a straightforward process.
To start, I lifted the pod lid by pushing the silver lever on top to the right, inserted the pod into the slot, and closed the lid by pushing it down and then locking it with the lever to the left. As soon as the pod was pierced, the coffee button in the middle started flashing, indicating that the machine was heating up. After a few seconds, the light stopped flashing, I pressed the button, and it immediately started brewing a delicious cup of coffee.
The whole process only took a few minutes, and what I loved most was that it didn't make a mess on my countertop.
It's worth noting that the Vertuo Next offers a variety of coffee sizes depending on the type of pod used. You can choose from espresso (1.35 oz), double espresso (2.7 oz), gran lungo (5 oz), mug (7.77 oz), and alto (14 oz). The machine automatically recognizes the type of pod you've used, so all you need to do is ensure that your cup is the right size for the coffee you want.
It's a great option for those who love to experiment with different coffee sizes and flavors. Plus, with a wide range of blends available on the Nespresso app and website, you'll never run out of options. Just remember to double-check your cup size before brewing!
Score: 4/5
The Nespresso Vertuo Next machine is perfect for my needs as a single coffee drinker. The water tank is large enough that I can enjoy several cups before needing to refill it or empty the pod container, and to fill the tank, I simply lift it off the back of the machine, remove the lid, fill it with water from the faucet, replace the lid, and reattach it to the machine. I usually only need to do this once a week, but it depends on how much coffee you drink.
I find that the machine itself is quite low-maintenance. Besides emptying the used pod compartment and washing the accompanying drip tray, which I, again, do about once a week, the machine doesn't require much cleaning. It also only needs to be descaled every six months. The silver drip tray, which also doubles as a cup stand, may need to be cleaned occasionally, but the machine doesn't drip much unless you pull the cup away too soon.
Nespresso Vertuo Next: Taste test
As the machine uses pods, I found that the coffee never got overheated or burnt during the brewing process, which can sometimes happen with freshly ground beans. I did notice that some pods had a stronger and more bitter taste than others, so I preferred using pods in the mid-range of the strength scale.
While you can't control the temperature of the coffee, I found that it was always hot enough to drink right away without scalding my mouth. And if you're concerned about the variety of pods available, you needn't be. There are many Vertuo pods to choose from, including limited edition and seasonal flavors.
Should you buy the Nespresso Vertuo Next?
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if...
How does the Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee Machine compare?
The Nespresso Vertuo Next is a newer addition to the Vertuo range and has a sleek design. Unlike the Lattissima, the Vertuo Next doesn't come with a milk carafe, but you can purchase a milk frother separately for around $50.
With a price of around $159, the Vertuo Next is a fantastic option for those on a budget who still want a quality coffee experience at home. However, if you're looking for a more high-end option, the Vertuo Next Deluxe is also available for around $229 and comes with a built-in milk frother for even more convenience.
Nespresso Vertuo Next: User reviews
Amazon customers have reviewed the Nespresso Vertuo Next, with varying opinions. One customer gave it a 5-star rating, appreciating its sleek design and ease of use. They did mention that the pods can be expensive but were happy with the provided recycling bags.
Another customer, who purchased the machine in Dark Grey, also gave it a 5-star rating, praising the amazing taste of coffee that can be brewed in different sizes and flavors. Initially, they faced an issue with the coffee not being hot enough, but after adjusting the cup position and running a cleaning cycle, the issue was resolved.
However, another reviewer had a negative experience with the product. They received a damaged box, and it was a customer return. They had to run multiple cleaning cycles to get clean water, and the machine stopped working after a few days. They also mentioned that the machine is loud and harder to operate compared to other Nespresso models.
How I tested the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima Coffee Machine
- Used the machine to make a coffee every morning and afternoon for two weeks.
- Used every single type of Vertuo pod provided, meaning I made espresso, double espresso, gran lungo and mug-sized coffees.
- I didn't make a 'carafe-sized' coffee, as although this is an option according to the box the machine came in, I didn't have any pods that would provide that amount of coffee, nor did I need it as I live alone.
- Used the milk frothing carafe to create hot foam, lattes and cappuccinos.
I tried out the Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee machine for a couple of weeks in my apartment. During this time, I made coffee at least twice a day using various Nespresso Vertuo coffee pods and even served some to my guests (they loved the taste as well!).
Read more here about how we test.
First reviewed: February 2024
