Nespresso Vertuo Pods Versus Originals

The launch of the Nespresso coffee machine revolutionized the coffee world, allowing you to make quality coffee just like you could find in your favorite coffee shop, minus the price tag and without leaving home. Since then, the market has expanded, and there is a new kid on the block–say hello to the Nespresso Vertuo. 

Nespresso coffee machines have provided coffee lovers with compact, filter coffee machines offering favorites such as espresso, latte, and cappuccino varieties. The launch of the Vertuo range has built upon the success of its predecessor, but now offers coffee enthusiasts the option to drink full mugs of coffee, similar to coffee types like an americano or even regular filter coffee.

So, what are the key differences between Vertuo and Original, and which would make the best choice? Below, we’ve highlighted the main differences we believe could have an affect on your choice of coffee making.

Capsules

The original Nespresso system allows for its own brands of capsules (or pods) to be used with the machine, however, the option also exists to buy third party capsules which can be more economical, widely available, and in most cases, fully compostable. With the Vertuo system, the available capsules are branded as Nespresso, meaning that they are more limited in terms of availability, variety, and price. 

One advantage of the Vertuo, however, is that its new capsule technology means the best Nespresso pods are designed with a barcode system that deciphers which size cup is needed, allowing for a greater range of coffee choices in all sizes. Nespresso capsules come in twenty-four varieties, while the Vertuo capsules range falls one short with twenty-three.

For more details on the variety of Nespresso capsules available, take a look at our recent reusable Nespresso pods review.

Cup Size

Nespresso was conceived and marketed predominantly with the espresso coffee drinker in mind, while original Nespresso machines also came with options for lattes and cappuccinos. We might assume this covered every coffee consumer’s needs; however, the release of the Vertuo has shown Nespresso’s desire to cater for a broader market. 

The Vertuo comes complete with a system with cup sizes ranging from forty milliliters (espresso size) up to a whopping 414 milliliters (known as an alto) for those who want to pack in more coffee per serving. Providing larger coffee servings on the original Nespresso machines meant using multiple capsules or creating a more watered-down coffee experience.

Adding Milk

A perfect espresso with a foam top, cappuccino, or latte can only be achieved with some kind of frothing device–which also heats the milk. These are built into commercial barista machines, and Nespresso built its own frothers into many models from the original range; it also gave consumers the choice to buy an Aeroccino frothing accessory. This offered users the opportunity to give a professional finish to every homemade cup of coffee.

Coffees created using a Vertuo model, on the other hand, are designed to be used primarily with cold milk or milk warmed separately–although the option exists to buy a bundle with the Aeroccino included.

Price

Original Nespresso machines were first released in 1986 in the USA, and are now available from many different manufacturers from as little as $75 for a basic model, increasing in price to over $600 for the most complex machine. As a relative newcomer, the new Vertuo model is hard to find for under $100, but will likely decrease in price over time.

Final Thoughts

Coffee lovers will find joy in both these machines manufactured by Nespresso. If you tend to prefer delicately made coffee in smaller sizes, the original Nespresso has been the master of this trade for three decades. If you prefer something simple but a little more substantial, the Vertuo might be what you are looking for. Both will make exquisite coffee, which leaves you to decide which one best suits your needs. 
Trying to dial back your coffee intake and looking for alternative drinks to replace your morning coffee? We’ve got you covered–take a look at our latest post.