I love starting my mornings with my Nespresso coffee machine, but although I’ve got a machine from the brand’s Original line, I’ve recently been experimenting with the Vertuo machine.
If you’re like me, you might wonder if you should make the switch to one of those instead.
Quick Answer: Original vs. Vertuo: which Nespresso system is best for you?
Nespresso Vertuo is the better choice if you prefer larger coffee sizes (up to a 535 ml / 18 oz carafe, depending on the capsule) and a one-button brew style.
Nespresso Original is usually the better choice if you primarily drink espresso-style drinks (ristretto/espresso/lungo) and want the flexibility to use many Nespresso-compatible capsules from other brands.
In this article, I’ll explore the Nespresso Vertuo vs. Original debate in greater detail to see which coffee machine line is more effective and has better value for money.
You can also use my Nespresso system picker tool below to quickly find the right machine for you:
Keep reading this guide for a detailed breakdown of the Nespresso Vertuo vs. Original machines!
What is the Nespresso Original coffee machine?
The Nespresso Original line contains coffee makers such as the Essenza Mini, Lattissima, and Inissia.
These machines make use of six main groups that display different flavors and intensities, which are listed as follows:
- Limited Editions
- Ispirazione Italiana
- Barista Creations
- World explorations
- Origins
- Espresso
Nespresso Original machines are designed around these drink sizes:
- Ristretto - 0.85 oz (25 ml)
- Espresso - 1.35 oz (40 ml)
- Lungo - 3.7 oz (110 ml)
All the coffee machines in the Original line utilize a 19-bar high-pressure extraction system that mimics traditional Italian espresso machines.
If you love crema in your coffee, this type of coffee machine is a great bet for you because it will fill your cup with dense crema:
Pros
- Highly compatible with many capsules. The Original Nespresso machines can be used with a variety of coffee capsules, all from different coffee brands. You’re not limited to Nespresso capsules when using this coffee maker.
- Variety of coffee drinks. Original machines allow you to create a variety of coffee and espresso drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos. If you want to learn how to make tasty cappuccinos, read my guide on how to make a mocha cappuccino.
- A wide range of Original capsules are available (and the selection changes by country/season).
- Compact size. The coffee makers in the Original line are all compact, which makes them versatile for use in various settings and small homes.
Cons
- More versatile machines are priced higher. Although there are some Original coffee machines that can be used to froth and steam milk, therefore increasing the variety of coffees you can make at home, they do cost more money.
- Nespresso-compatible capsules are a single size. This means that your larger drinks, such as a lungo, will be a bit diluted.
What is the Nespresso Vertuo?
Nespresso Vertuo is a game-changer when it comes to making delicious coffee, as it allows you to brew cups up to 535 ml (18 oz) in size with suitable coffee capsules.
Coffee machines in the Vertuo line come with four extra pod sizes, so you can make different sizes of your favorite coffee. These are:
- Double espresso – 2.7 oz (80 ml)
- Gran lungo - 5.1 oz (150 ml)
- Signature - 7.77 oz (230 ml)
- Carafe - 18 oz (535 ml)
Vertuo capsules have a barcode that the machine reads to automatically set brew parameters (such as water amount, temperature, and extraction settings).
When the machine detects this barcode that contains all that valuable information, it interprets it and then uses the information to adjust how it works so that you get the right type and style of coffee that you want:
Vertuo offers capsule blends designed to be paired with milk; however, the capsules contain coffee only, so you must still add milk separately (using a frother or by hand):
- Espresso
- Double espresso
- Grand lungo
Pros
- Larger drinks with more crema. You can create larger coffee beverages with thicker crema when using a Vertuo Nespresso machine.
- Five pod sizes. Vertuo pods are available in five different sizes, offering a range of flavors and intensity levels.
- Less effort is required by you. When you insert the pod into the machine, its barcode is read, and this automatically brews you a cup of coffee according to the specifications, so you don’t have to do anything.
- A wide selection of Vertuo capsules is available (varies by country/season).
Cons
- Limited to Nespresso capsules. You can only use Nespresso capsules for Vertuo machines because of their barcode, which has to be “read” by the machine.
- Not compatible with Original capsules. If you’re upgrading to a Vertuo from an Original Nespresso coffee machine, you won’t be able to use your Original coffee capsules because they’re incompatible.
- Capsules are expensive. The Vertuo coffee capsules are more expensive than those offered by the Original Nespresso machine, which might not fit every budget.
Is there a machine that uses both Original and Vertuo pods?
Original and Vertuo capsules are not cross-compatible; each capsule type requires its matching machine line.
Original pods must be used in an Original coffee machine, while Vertuo pods must be used in Vertuo coffee machines.
However, the Original coffee machine can accommodate a wide variety of other third-party coffee capsules, such as Illy Nespresso-compatible pods:
Do all coffee pods fit Nespresso machines?
Generally, different types of coffee pods are compatible with specific Nespresso machines.
Vertuo machines use proprietary Vertuo capsules that are sold through Nespresso, so you can't use generic third-party capsules the way you often can with Original machines.
When it comes to your Original Nespresso machine, you can use other pods in it, but you won’t be able to use Vertuo machine pods.
This is because they’re shaped and sized differently, so they simply won’t fit. Original pods come in a coffee cup shape, while the Vertuo pods are dome-shaped:
Nespresso Vertuo vs. Original: Which one should you buy?
Both the Vertuo and Original coffee machine lines have their respective pros and cons.
Choose Original if you mostly drink espresso-style sizes (ristretto/espresso/lungo) and value capsule flexibility, as well as typically lower capsule costs.
Another important reason to consider choosing a Nespresso Original is if you’re on a budget.
Since Nespresso Original coffee machines are more affordable, they make more sense to purchase instead of a Nespresso Vertuo.
Choose Vertuo if you want longer coffee sizes (like mug/gran lungo/carafe) and prefer the automated barcode-driven brewing style.
This coffee machine will be a good investment if you want larger coffees with more crema.
It’s essential to note that when purchasing a Vertuo machine, you’ll need to spend more on coffee capsules, which can only be obtained through Nespresso.
Best Nespresso Vertuo coffee machines
If you’re interested in purchasing a Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine for your kitchen, consider the following two models.
Let’s take a look at their special features, pros, and cons:
1. Nespresso Vertuo Machine by De'Longhi
This automatic coffee and espresso machine allows you to brew four different cup sizes, utilizing barcode technology to ensure you get the best crema for your cup.
It’s designed with a 54 oz (7-cup) water tank capacity and heats up within 15 seconds. It comes with a capacity for 17 capsules.
Pros
- Optional frother. You can purchase the Vertuo coffee machine with a frother included if you like milk-based drinks.
- Coffee capsules included. The machine comes with 12 pods, each containing a different coffee size, flavor, and intensity.
- Easy setup. This coffee machine comes with straightforward instructions, making it easy to set up and start using.
Cons
- Loud cleaning cycle. When you clean the machine, it can be quite noisy.
- The milk frother is not compatible with all types of milk. While it works well with cow’s milk, other types of milk don’t froth up as easily in this frother.
2. Nespresso Vertuo Next Machine by De’Longhi with milk frother
Nespresso positions the Vertuo Next as a compact Vertuo machine (about 14.2 cm wide).
They also state it's made with roughly 54% recycled plastic (by machine weight).
It’s made from partially recycled materials, so you won’t feel guilty about your environmental footprint.
Pros
- Variety of drink sizes. Vertuo supports various sizes, including espresso (40 ml), double espresso (80 ml), gran lungo (150 ml), mug (230 ml), and carafe (535 ml).
- Milk frother included. It comes with a milk frother, so you can whip up cold foam or hot milk for your coffee drinks.
- Programmable sizes. This coffee machine allows you to program the coffee sizes for increased convenience.
Cons
- Tight closing hinge. It can be difficult to press down the hinge at times, as compared to other Nespresso coffee machines.
- Loud. This machine can be quite noisy at times.
Best Nespresso Original coffee machines
Maybe you’d prefer to stick to an Original Nespresso coffee machine. If that’s the case, here are two great options!
Let’s check out their pros, cons, and features:
1. Nespresso Lattissima Touch Machine with milk frother by De'Longhi
This Original Nespresso coffee machine utilizes a flow of water with 19 bars of pressure, allowing you to make quick and delicious coffee and espresso drinks.
It’s great if you want versatility in your drinks, such as if you love cappuccino, ristretto, or espresso, and don’t want to be limited to just one.
Pros
- Automatic cappuccino system. You can make coffees and espressos with thick foam, and you can choose the milk level that suits your taste.
- Thermoblock heating system. This coffee maker heats up within mere seconds.
- One-touch operation. To start making delicious coffee, simply press one button, and the machine will take care of the rest.
Cons
- Beverage icons aren’t obvious. To choose the drink you want to make with the machine, you must press its corresponding button; however, the icons on the buttons aren’t clearly displayed.
2. Nespresso CitiZ Machine by De’Longhi with milk frother
This popular model from Nespresso’s Original line features everything you expect from the line, including the 19-bar pump system.
There are some extra features to make whipping up a delicious cup of coffee a breeze every morning, such as adjustable cup sizes.
Pros
- Programmable buttons. The machine features two programmable buttons: one for making a lungo coffee and one for making an espresso, which allows you to create single-serve coffee.
- Removable components. With its removable drip tray, water tank, and espresso capsule container, this coffee maker is easy to clean.
- Folding cup tray. This coffee maker is ideal for making taller glass coffee recipes, such as a latte.
Cons
- Lacks modernity. It has two hard-pressed buttons that make it feel less modern than Vertuo coffee makers, which are designed to be more intuitive.
- Doesn’t clean automatically. You’ll need to clean it yourself regularly, such as when descaling the machine.
Conclusion
If you want to purchase a Nespresso machine but are unsure which one to choose, you may want to compare the Nespresso Original with the Vertuo.
In this guide, I’ve broken down what makes both of these coffee machine lines special, looking at their pros and cons.
When choosing between them, generally, you should:
- Choose a Nespresso Original if you want more versatility with your coffee capsules.
- Choose a Nespresso Original if you love using third-party coffee brands.
- Choose a Nespresso Vertuo if you want to make larger coffees with more crema.
- Choose a Nespresso Vertuo if you have the budget for it!
