Last updated: October 2, 2026
The Nespresso VertuoPlus is a capsule coffee maker built for people who want a quick, consistent cup without weighing coffee, tamping a portafilter, or learning espresso technique. It makes both espresso-sized drinks and larger coffees, which is its main advantage over many traditional pod machines.
It is also an older Vertuo design, and that matters when you compare prices. The machine can be a good buy at a discount, but its coffee is still made from proprietary Vertuo capsules, and it does not give you the control or fresh-coffee flexibility of a conventional espresso machine.
Quick answer: Our top pick in 2026 is the Ease of use — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
How the VertuoPlus works
The VertuoPlus reads the barcode printed around the rim of each capsule. That code tells the machine how much water to use, how quickly to spin the capsule, and when to stop brewing. Nespresso calls the process Centrifusion: the capsule spins rapidly while water extracts the coffee.
In daily use, the process is simple. Fill the water tank, insert a capsule, close the motorized head, and press the button. The machine takes roughly a minute or two to heat and brew, depending on the drink size. Used capsules are automatically ejected into an internal container.
The VertuoPlus is available in versions with different water-tank capacities and layouts. Some have a movable tank that can sit behind or beside the machine, which is useful on a cramped counter. Check the exact listing before buying, because “VertuoPlus” does not always mean identical dimensions or tank capacity.
Coffee and espresso quality
See also: Breville Bench Saver • Rocket Espresso Coffee Machine
The VertuoPlus produces a thick, foamy crema-like layer on top of its drinks. It looks appealing, but it is not the same as the crema from a well-dialed-in café espresso. The larger coffees tend to be smooth and convenient rather than especially rich or complex.
Results are consistent from capsule to capsule. That is a strength if you want the same breakfast coffee every morning. The limitation is that you cannot adjust grind size, dose, brew pressure, or extraction time. If a particular capsule tastes too bitter, thin, or smoky, your main remedy is trying another capsule rather than changing the recipe.
Espresso drinkers should also remember that the machine does not include a milk system. You can add a separate frother, steam wand, or warmed milk, but the VertuoPlus itself only brews the coffee. For cappuccinos and lattes, budget for a separate milk frother if you do not already have one.
Main advantages and drawbacks
| Feature | VertuoPlus | Traditional espresso machine |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Insert a capsule and press one button | Requires grinding, dosing, tamping, and cleanup |
| Drink range | Espresso and several larger coffee sizes | Usually espresso-based drinks; brewed coffee may require another machine |
| Control | Very limited | High, especially with a capable grinder |
| Cleanup | Empty capsules and rinse the brewing system | Clean the portafilter, basket, group head, and steam equipment |
| Ongoing cost | Capsules are convenient but can cost more per serving | Ground or whole-bean coffee is usually cheaper per drink |
The biggest practical trade-off is convenience versus consumable cost. A VertuoPlus can make less mess than a manual machine, but Vertuo capsules are the only normal way to use it. You are committing to Nespresso’s capsule selection, pricing, and availability.
What ownership is like
Empty the capsule container regularly, especially if several people use the machine. If it becomes overfilled, capsules can jam the ejecting mechanism or make the lid difficult to close. Wipe away coffee residue and rinse the removable water tank rather than leaving stagnant water in it for long periods.
Descaling is also important. Hard-water buildup can cause slow flow, unusual noises, weak coffee, or incomplete brewing. Follow the manual’s procedure and use a product intended for coffee machines. Do not assume a rinse cycle replaces descaling.
Common failure points include a capsule that is not seated correctly, a blocked outlet, an overfilled used-capsule bin, and a water tank that is not fully engaged. If the machine stops partway through a brew, first remove and reinsert the tank, empty the capsule bin, and run the recommended cleaning cycle. Persistent leaks, repeated error lights, or a motor that runs without dispensing water usually indicate a service issue rather than a capsule problem.
Who should buy the VertuoPlus?
It suits households that want regular coffee and occasional espresso with almost no preparation. It is particularly convenient for offices, guest rooms, and people who do not want a grinder or a learning curve. Someone who drinks one or two coffee-shop-style drinks a day may value the speed more than the higher capsule cost.
It is less suitable for an enthusiast who wants café-style espresso, fresh single-origin beans, or the ability to tune every shot. It is also a poor fit if you want one machine that accepts ordinary ground coffee and Vertuo capsules. If using your own beans is important, look at automatic bean-to-cup coffee machines instead.
For a cheaper alternative, a basic drip coffee maker is fine when you mainly drink a full mug and do not care about espresso. It uses widely available ground coffee, costs less to operate, and often makes several cups at once. Choose the VertuoPlus only if the capsule workflow and smaller espresso option are worth paying for.
Buying advice
Compare the total package, not just the machine price. A discounted VertuoPlus may include a capsule sampler, but check whether the capsules match the sizes you actually drink. Also check the return policy, water-tank position, machine width, and whether the unit is new, refurbished, or used.
If you are unsure whether pod coffee is right for you, a compact single-serve coffee maker that accepts ground coffee offers more consumable flexibility, though it will not reproduce the VertuoPlus brewing system. For a manual espresso setup, spend at least as much attention on the grinder as on the machine; an inexpensive machine paired with poor grinding rarely gives satisfying results.
FAQ
Does the VertuoPlus make real espresso?
It makes an espresso-sized coffee with a crema-like foam layer. It is convenient and consistent, but it does not offer the same control or flavor range as a traditional pump espresso machine.
Can I use regular Nespresso Original capsules?
No. VertuoPlus machines use Vertuo capsules, which are a different size and brewing system from Original capsules. The two capsule ranges are not interchangeable.
Can I use ground coffee in the VertuoPlus?
No. It is designed for Vertuo capsules. Reusable or refillable capsules may perform inconsistently and can cause leaks or extraction problems, so they are not a dependable replacement for the intended capsules.
Is the VertuoPlus worth buying?
Yes, if you prioritize one-button convenience and want both large coffee and espresso-sized drinks. Choose a traditional machine or bean-to-cup model instead if lower long-term coffee cost, fresh beans, or drink customization matters more.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the Ease of use.
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