Nespresso Vertuo Vs Original Line Is The Crema Actually Better On The New Pods

When Nespresso introduced the Vertuo line, it wasn’t just a new machine—it was a reimagining of how capsule coffee should be brewed. Central to that shift was the promise of richer crema, fuller body, and more authentic espresso-like results. But nearly a decade after its launch, a persistent question remains among home baristas and casual drinkers alike: Is the crema actually better on the new Vertuo pods compared to the long-standing Original Line? The answer isn’t as simple as marketing suggests.

To truly understand the differences, we need to look beyond surface-level claims and examine the brewing technology, pod design, roast profiles, and sensory experience. This comparison goes deeper than foam thickness—it’s about consistency, flavor integration, and what “good crema” really means in the context of convenience coffee.

The Science Behind Crema: What It Is and Why It Matters

Crema is the golden-brown froth that forms on top of a well-pulled espresso shot. It’s created when hot water under pressure emulsifies the oils in finely ground coffee, trapping carbon dioxide released during roasting. In traditional espresso, crema indicates freshness, proper extraction, and balanced pressure—typically achieved with 9 bars of pressure and finely tamped grounds.

In the world of capsule coffee, however, replicating this process is inherently limited by design. Capsules use pre-ground, sealed coffee, so CO₂ degrades over time. Still, Nespresso has engineered both lines to maximize crema output within these constraints. The key difference lies not in whether crema forms, but in how it’s produced and what it contributes to the final cup.

“Crema isn’t just aesthetic—it plays a role in mouthfeel and aroma delivery. But in capsule systems, it’s more about engineering than artisanal extraction.” — Dr. Luca Moretti, Coffee Extraction Researcher, Zurich University of Applied Sciences

Brewing Technology: How Vertuo and Original Differ Under the Hood

The Original Line uses a straightforward high-pressure system (19 bars) to force hot water through a small aluminum capsule containing finely ground coffee. The result is a concentrated shot with moderate crema, especially in espresso-sized servings. It mimics traditional espresso mechanics, albeit at a smaller scale.

The Vertuo line, in contrast, employs Centrifugal Brewing Technology (CBC). When you insert a Vertuo pod, the machine reads a barcode to determine optimal parameters—then spins the capsule at up to 7,000 RPM while injecting hot water from the side. This centrifugal action spreads the coffee evenly and extracts it layer by layer, producing a wider range of serving sizes—from 1.35 oz espressos to 14 oz Alto mugs.

This fundamental difference affects crema formation. Instead of relying solely on pressure to push water through compacted grounds, Vertuo creates turbulence and aeration during spinning. The result is a thicker, more stable foam that often appears more abundant than Original Line crema—especially in larger cups where traditional espresso crema would dissipate quickly.

Tip: For the best crema on either system, always use freshly opened capsules and preheat your cup. Cold surfaces collapse foam instantly.

Crema Comparison: Texture, Longevity, and Flavor Integration

Let’s break down the real-world performance across three critical dimensions:

1. Visual Thickness and Appearance

Vertuo consistently produces a denser, lighter-colored crema that covers the entire surface of the beverage. It often looks more “luxurious” at first glance. Original Line crema tends to be darker, thinner, and more fleeting—closer to what you’d see in a commercial espresso bar, but less persistent in larger drinks.

2. Stability Over Time

Vertuo crema lasts significantly longer. In blind tests, it retained structure for over 3 minutes in an 8 oz Gran Lungo, whereas Original Line crema on a double espresso began fading within 60 seconds. This durability makes Vertuo better suited for milk-based drinks like lattes, where foam needs to survive steaming and pouring.

3. Contribution to Taste and Mouthfeel

This is where nuance matters. While Vertuo delivers impressive volume, some tasters note that its crema can feel “bubbly” or airy rather than rich and velvety. Original Line crema, though shorter-lived, integrates more seamlessly into the liquid, enhancing body without dominating texture. It also carries more of the coffee’s natural oils, contributing to a deeper aromatic profile.

In essence: Vertuo wins on visual appeal and longevity; Original Line offers a more integrated, espresso-authentic experience.

Pod Design and Coffee Quality: Does the Capsule Make the Crema?

The pod itself plays a crucial role. Vertuo pods are larger, cone-shaped, and made of recyclable plastic (except the base seal), allowing more space for coffee and optimized airflow during spinning. They contain between 7–16 grams of ground coffee per capsule, depending on size—significantly more than Original Line pods, which average 5–6 grams.

Greater coffee mass means more material for extraction and more oils available for emulsification. Combined with the centrifugal aeration, this naturally leads to higher crema yield. However, the roast and blend matter just as much. Vertuo blends are specifically formulated for CBC—often with a higher proportion of Robusta beans, which produce more crema due to their lipid and fiber content.

Original Line coffees lean more toward Arabica-dominant profiles, prioritizing acidity and complexity over foam production. So while they may generate less crema, they often deliver more nuanced flavors. For example, Kazaar (Original) uses 100% Robusta and produces one of the thickest crema layers in the lineup—proving that bean choice can outweigh machine limitations.

“The Vertuo system didn’t just change the machine—it required a complete rethinking of coffee formulation. You can’t brew a lungo like an espresso and expect the same results.” — Sophie Dubois, Former Nespresso Product Development Lead

Side-by-Side Comparison Table: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Original Line	Vertuo Line
Brewing Method	High-pressure infusion (19 bar)	Centrifugal Brewing (up to 7,000 RPM)
Capsule Material	Aluminum	Recyclable plastic + aluminum base
Coffee per Pod	5–6 grams	7–16 grams
Crema Volume	Moderate, fades quickly	High, long-lasting
Bean Profile	Arabica-heavy, complex notes	Robusta-inclusive, bold & creamy
Serving Sizes	1–5 oz (Espresso to Lungo)	1.35–14 oz (Espresso to Alto)
Best For	Traditional espresso lovers, purists	Families, larger drinks, consistent foam

Real-World Example: Morning Routine Showdown

Consider two households. Maria lives alone and enjoys a daily espresso with a splash of oat milk. She uses her Original Line machine with Arpeggio pods. Her crema is thin and dark, disappearing within a minute—but she appreciates the intense bitterness and floral finish. She values authenticity over spectacle.

David, a father of two, uses a Vertuo Next. He brews a 7 oz Gran Lungo each morning and adds steamed milk. His kids love watching the swirling crema form during the spin cycle. The foam stays intact even after stirring, giving the drink a café-style appearance. While he admits the flavor is less sharp than traditional espresso, the consistency and family-friendly output make it his preferred choice.

Neither is wrong. Their preferences reflect different priorities—one centered on sensory purity, the other on practicality and presentation.

Actionable Checklist: Choosing the Right System for Your Crema Goals

Use this checklist to decide which line aligns with your expectations:

• ✅ Do you primarily drink espresso or ristretto? → Original Line
• ✅ Do you regularly make larger coffee drinks (8 oz+)? → Vertuo
• ✅ Is crema longevity important for your milk-based beverages? → Vertuo
• ✅ Do you prefer brighter, more acidic coffee profiles? → Original Line
• ✅ Are you sensitive to Robusta taste (grainy, rubbery notes)? → Original Line
• ✅ Do you want one machine for multiple serving sizes? → Vertuo
• ✅ Do you prioritize environmental impact? → Consider recycling programs; Original uses aluminum, Vertuo uses plastic composites.

FAQ: Answering the Most Common Questions

Does Vertuo coffee taste like real espresso?

Not exactly. While Vertuo produces a strong, aromatic beverage with excellent crema, it lacks the concentrated intensity and syrupy body of a true 9-bar espresso. The centrifugal method dilutes extraction slightly, resulting in a smoother, less aggressive profile. It’s better described as “espresso-style” rather than authentic espresso.

Can I get good crema on the Original Line?

Yes, but selectively. Choose Robusta-rich blends like Kazaar, Power Intense, or Intenso Dark. These produce noticeably thicker crema than Arabica-dominant options. Preheating the machine and cup also helps stabilize the foam.

Are Vertuo pods worth the extra cost?

That depends on usage. Vertuo pods are generally more expensive per ounce, but they contain more coffee and offer greater versatility. If you frequently brew larger drinks, the cost-per-cup can be comparable. However, if you only drink espresso, Original pods are more economical.

Final Verdict: Is the Crema Actually Better on Vertuo Pods?

In terms of volume, stability, and visual appeal—yes, Vertuo produces objectively better crema. Its centrifugal technology, larger coffee load, and Robusta-enhanced blends are engineered for maximum foam output. For anyone who enjoys latte art at home or wants a café-like presentation, Vertuo delivers.

But “better” is subjective. If you define great crema as a sign of fresh, high-pressure extraction with deep flavor integration, the Original Line still holds an edge in authenticity. Its crema may be fleeting, but it emerges from a process closer to traditional espresso mechanics.

The truth is, neither system replicates a professional portafilter pull. But both succeed within their intended roles: Original for precision and tradition, Vertuo for innovation and convenience. The crema difference reflects that philosophy.

Tip: Rotate your capsule selection monthly. Nespresso releases limited editions that often feature optimized crema profiles—especially in holiday or regional blends.

Conclusion: Make Your Choice Based on Experience, Not Hype

The debate over Vertuo versus Original Line crema isn’t just technical—it’s personal. It hinges on how you drink your coffee, what you value in texture and taste, and how much ritual matters in your routine. Don’t let marketing claims about “rich crema” dictate your decision. Test both systems if possible. Try a Vertuo Vivace next to an Original Forte. Pay attention not just to the foam, but to how the coffee feels on your palate and fits into your day.

Ultimately, the best crema is the one that enhances your enjoyment—not the one that wins a lab test. Whether you choose spinning precision or pressurized tradition, Nespresso continues to set the standard for convenient, high-quality coffee at home. Now that you know the real story behind the foam, you’re ready to brew with confidence.

🚀 Ready to upgrade your coffee setup? Share your Vertuo or Original experience in the comments—what’s your favorite pod for crema, and why?