Nespresso Vertuo Next Vs Plus Is The Newer Model Really An Upgrade

The Nespresso Vertuo line has become a staple in modern kitchens, offering barista-quality coffee with minimal effort. As the product line evolves, so do its machines. The release of the Vertuo Next raised eyebrows—was it truly an improvement over the well-established Vertuo Plus? On paper, the Next appears sleeker and more sustainable, but does it deliver a better brewing experience? For consumers weighing their options, understanding the real differences between these two models is essential before investing in their next daily brew companion.

Design and Build: A Shift Toward Sustainability

The most noticeable difference between the Vertuo Next and the Vertuo Plus lies in their physical design. The Next was introduced as part of Nespresso’s “Renew” initiative, aiming for greater environmental responsibility. This shift is evident in the materials used—recycled plastics make up a significant portion of the housing, reducing the machine’s carbon footprint by approximately 20% compared to previous models.

While the Vertuo Plus features a more traditional plastic casing with a matte finish, the Next adopts a minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and a slightly smaller footprint. It stands about 15% shorter than the Plus, making it ideal for compact kitchens or countertops with limited space. However, this reduction in size comes at a cost: the water tank capacity is now 36 oz (down from 40 oz on the Plus), requiring more frequent refills for heavy users.

Tip: If counter space is limited, the Vertuo Next’s compact design offers a cleaner look and easier storage.

Both models feature the same automatic opening and closing mechanism when starting a brew, which remains one of the standout innovations of the Vertuo system. However, some users have noted that the Next’s lid feels slightly less robust, with a lighter click during operation—possibly due to weight-saving design choices.

Brew Performance: Identical Technology, Same Taste

Under the hood, both machines use the same Centrifusion technology—a proprietary method where the machine reads the barcode on the rim of each Vertuo capsule and adjusts brewing parameters accordingly. This ensures precise control over water temperature, flow rate, and extraction time depending on whether you're making a 7 oz Alto or a 2 oz Espresso.

In blind taste tests conducted by independent reviewers, no discernible difference in coffee quality was detected between the two models. Whether brewing a rich Gran Lungo or a creamy double espresso, flavor profiles remained consistent across machines. Water pressure, extraction speed, and crema production are identical because the core brewing engine hasn’t changed.

The heating element also performs similarly. Both machines heat up in under 30 seconds and can brew consecutive cups without long wait times. However, the Vertuo Plus includes a power-saving mode that automatically shuts down after nine minutes of inactivity, while the Next extends this to 15 minutes—offering slight convenience for those who might step away mid-brew session.

“From a flavor perspective, there's no advantage to upgrading just for better coffee. The brewing system is unchanged.” — James Reed, Home Coffee Equipment Analyst, BrewInsider Magazine

Environmental Impact and Energy Efficiency

Nespresso heavily markets the Vertuo Next as a more eco-conscious choice. Beyond using recycled materials, the machine consumes less energy during standby mode. According to official specifications, the Next uses up to 20% less electricity annually when factoring in auto-off settings and improved insulation around the boiler.

Additionally, the packaging for the Next is fully recyclable and free of polystyrene foam—aligning with broader corporate sustainability goals. While these changes may seem minor, they reflect a growing trend among appliance manufacturers to reduce environmental impact across the product lifecycle.

However, critics point out that the trade-off for sustainability is reduced durability. Early user reports suggest that the outer shell of the Next is more prone to scuffing and static buildup, especially in high-humidity environments. In contrast, the Vertuo Plus maintains a sturdier feel despite being made from virgin plastics.

Detailed Comparison: Vertuo Next vs Vertuo Plus

Feature	Vertuo Next	Vertuo Plus
Water Tank Capacity	36 oz	40 oz
Height	12.4 inches	14.6 inches
Materials	54% recycled plastic	Virgin plastic
Auto-Off Time	15 minutes	9 minutes
Energy Consumption (Annual)	~50 kWh	~62 kWh
Available Colors	Black, White, Gray	Multiple finishes including Chrome, Red, and Limited Editions
Price (MSRP)	$199	$179

Note that while the Vertuo Next carries a higher price tag, it often comes bundled with introductory capsule packs or recycling incentives, which can offset the initial cost.

Real-World Use Case: Sarah’s Morning Routine

Sarah, a graphic designer living in Seattle, owned a Vertuo Plus for three years before switching to the Next after her old machine malfunctioned. She appreciated the smaller size, which fit neatly beside her toaster without crowding her breakfast bar. “I don’t miss the extra four ounces of water,” she said. “I usually only make two drinks in the morning, and I refill anyway for afternoon tea.”

What surprised her was how much she valued the longer auto-off timer. “Sometimes I get distracted answering emails right after brewing. With the Plus, it would shut off and I’d have to wait again. The Next gives me breathing room.”

Still, she noticed the casing attracted more dust and required wiping more frequently. “It feels a bit cheaper, honestly. But if it lasts five years instead of six, I’m okay with that if it means less plastic waste.”

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which Model Is Right for You

1. Evaluate your counter space: If space is tight, the Vertuo Next’s compact form factor is a clear advantage.
2. Assess your usage frequency: Heavy users may prefer the larger water tank of the Plus to avoid constant refills.
3. Prioritize sustainability: If eco-friendly materials and lower energy use matter to you, the Next aligns better with green values.
4. Check current pricing and bundles: Compare promotions; sometimes the Plus is discounted below MSRP, offering better value.
5. Consider long-term durability: If you plan to keep the machine for 5+ years, the sturdier build of the Plus may be worth the trade-offs.

Tip: Always register your machine online to extend warranty coverage and gain access to exclusive capsule discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same capsules in both machines?

Yes. Both the Vertuo Next and Vertuo Plus are compatible with all Nespresso VertuoLine capsules. There is no restriction based on model.

Is the Vertuo Next quieter than the Plus?

No significant difference in noise level has been reported. Both machines operate at approximately 65–70 decibels during brewing, similar to a standard blender on low speed.

Does the Vertuo Next heat water faster?

No. Both models reach optimal brewing temperature in about 25–30 seconds. The internal heating system is identical.

Final Verdict: Is the Newer Model Really an Upgrade?

Whether the Vertuo Next is a true upgrade over the Plus depends entirely on what you value in a coffee machine. If your priorities include environmental responsibility, space efficiency, and modern aesthetics, the Next delivers meaningful improvements. Its reduced energy consumption and use of recycled materials represent a step forward in sustainable appliance design.

However, if you prioritize maximum functionality, durability, and value for money, the Vertuo Plus remains the stronger choice. It offers a larger water reservoir, wider color availability, and a slightly more robust build—all at a lower price point.

In essence, the Vertuo Next isn’t a technological leap but a philosophical one. It reflects Nespresso’s commitment to evolving beyond performance alone and addressing broader consumer concerns about sustainability. For many, that shift in focus may be reason enough to make the switch—even without a change in the taste of their morning coffee.

🚀 Ready to choose your next brew partner? Weigh your needs, test models in person if possible, and remember—great coffee starts with the right machine for your lifestyle.