The short answer: choose the Vertuo Next if you want the slimmer machine, app connectivity, and support for larger 12- and 18-ounce Vertuo capsules. Choose the VertuoPlus if you value its movable larger water tank and motorized opening head more than connectivity or carafe-size brewing. Neither machine is universally better.
This comparison uses current U.S. specifications from Nespresso’s product pages and user manuals. Model names, finishes, capsule availability, bundles, and prices can change, so confirm the exact machine listing before buying.
Vertuo Next vs VertuoPlus at a Glance
| Feature | Vertuo Next | VertuoPlus |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Narrow counters, connected features, and larger drink formats | Flexible tank placement, a larger reservoir, and motorized opening |
| Width | 5.5 inches | About 5.6 inches with the tank behind or 8.7 inches with it beside the machine |
| Water tank | 37 fluid ounces | 40 fluid ounces on standard models; 60 fluid ounces on certain Deluxe models |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi | No connected-app feature |
| Head | Manual lock and unlock | Motorized opening and closing |
| Largest listed format | 18-ounce carafe capsule | Smaller coffee formats; check current capsule availability |
| Heat-up time | Approximately 15–30 seconds, depending on the current listing/manual | Up to about 40 seconds in the current manual |
| Auto-off | After 2 minutes | After 9 minutes |
Important naming note: “VertuoPlus” and “Vertuo Plus” refer to the same product family. The standard VertuoPlus and VertuoPlus Deluxe can have different tank capacities and cosmetic details. Check the model code rather than assuming every Plus listing has the same reservoir.
The Biggest Differences
1. The Next supports more large-cup options
Nespresso’s current U.S. Vertuo Next page lists six formats: 1.35-ounce Espresso, 2.7-ounce Double Espresso, 5-ounce coffee, 8-ounce coffee, 12-ounce XL, and an 18-ounce Carafe. That makes the Next the more flexible choice when you genuinely plan to buy the larger capsules.
The VertuoPlus handles the everyday espresso and coffee formats most owners use, but it does not offer the Next’s current 12-ounce and carafe positioning. Availability can vary by market and capsule range, so shop based on the drinks you will actually order rather than the theoretical maximum number of sizes.
2. The Plus has the more flexible water tank
The Vertuo Next is only 5.5 inches wide, but its 37-ounce tank sits at the back. Its full depth is roughly 16.8–16.9 inches in current Nespresso materials. Measure both width and depth before calling it the better small-kitchen machine.
The VertuoPlus reservoir pivots behind or alongside the machine. With the tank behind it, the body can be about 5.6 inches wide; with the tank at the side, it becomes wider but shallower. The standard Plus has a 40-ounce reservoir, while designated high-end or Deluxe versions can have a 60-ounce tank. That flexibility can matter more than the Next’s narrow body on an awkward counter.
3. Connectivity does not mean remote brewing
The Vertuo Next includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Nespresso describes the connected functions as cup customization and easier maintenance, and its manual explains how to enable or disable the connectivity module. The app can support updates, alerts, and machine settings.
It is misleading to describe this as brewing a coffee remotely from your phone. A fresh capsule still needs to be inserted, the head must be closed and locked, and brewing starts at the machine. Buy the Next for its format and footprint advantages; treat connectivity as a secondary convenience.
4. The Plus has a motorized head
The VertuoPlus opens and closes its brew chamber with a powered mechanism. Touching the lever lifts the head, and touching it again closes the chamber. The Next uses a manual head and locking lever. Both are one-button brewers once the capsule is loaded, but the loading experience feels different.
The motorized Plus is appealing if low-effort opening matters. The manual Next is more direct and contributes to its narrow shape. This is a preference rather than an automatic quality difference.
What They Have in Common
- Vertuo capsules only: neither machine accepts Nespresso Original capsules or third-party K-Cup pods.
- Barcode-guided brewing: the machine reads the Vertuo capsule and adjusts the brew cycle automatically.
- Centrifusion brewing: both spin the capsule during extraction and create the characteristic foam layer.
- Single-button operation: after inserting the appropriate capsule, the machine handles the programmed volume.
- Used-capsule container: both eject spent capsules into an internal bin when the head is opened.
- No built-in milk system: milk drinks require a separate frother or another way to heat and texture milk.
If you are still deciding between capsule systems rather than these two machines, start with our Nespresso Vertuo vs Original comparison. The capsule cost, drink style, and third-party capsule availability can matter more than the difference between the Next and Plus.
Which One Is Easier to Fit on a Counter?
Do not compare width alone. Measure the available width, usable depth, cabinet clearance, and the space needed to remove and refill the reservoir.
- Choose the Next for a narrow slot: its 5.5-inch body is useful between appliances, provided your counter is deep enough for the roughly 16.8-inch machine.
- Choose the Plus for an unusual corner: its rotating tank can sit at the back or move to either side, depending on the model and setup.
- Check overhead clearance: both machines need room for the head to open and for capsules to be inserted.
- Check mug clearance: use the adjustable support and confirm that your travel mug fits before purchase.
Which One Needs Less Refilling?
The VertuoPlus wins on reservoir capacity. Its standard 40-ounce tank is slightly larger than the Next’s 37-ounce tank, and the 60-ounce Deluxe reservoir creates a much larger gap. However, the number of drinks per fill depends on capsule size and on water used for rinsing.
A 37-ounce tank is enough for several drinks, but repeated 12- or 18-ounce brews will empty it quickly. If you want the Next primarily for its large formats, expect to refill it more often. If you make one or two espresso-size drinks a day, the difference is much less important.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both machines need routine rinsing, an emptied capsule bin and drip tray, and periodic descaling. Follow the instructions for your exact model; the button and lever sequences are not interchangeable. Nespresso’s current assistance pages provide model-specific cleaning, descaling, emptying, and reset steps.
The Next’s connection can help deliver maintenance information and firmware support, but it does not eliminate physical cleaning. The Plus has no app requirement. If you prefer the fewest connected-device steps, that simplicity may be a point in the Plus column.
For the Plus specifically, our VertuoPlus review covers its day-to-day layout and controls. For broader problems across the range, use the Nespresso troubleshooting guide.
How to Choose in 30 Seconds
Buy the Vertuo Next if most of these are true:
- Your available space is narrow but deep enough for the machine.
- You want 12-ounce or 18-ounce Vertuo formats.
- You value Bluetooth/Wi-Fi support and app-assisted maintenance.
- You are comfortable manually closing and locking the brew head.
- A 37-ounce tank is adequate for your routine.
Buy the VertuoPlus if most of these are true:
- You mainly drink espresso, double espresso, or regular coffee sizes.
- You want a tank that can rotate around the machine.
- You prefer a motorized opening and closing mechanism.
- You want a 40-ounce tank or are specifically shopping for a 60-ounce Deluxe model.
- You do not care about app connectivity or carafe-size capsules.
Verdict
The Vertuo Next is the more versatile choice for drink sizes and connected features, while the VertuoPlus has the more convenient reservoir and opening mechanism. For many buyers, the decision is simple: choose the Next for larger formats and a narrow footprint; choose the Plus for easier tank placement and a larger water supply.
Before ordering, verify the exact model’s tank capacity, dimensions, included accessories, warranty status, and current capsule selection. A discounted Deluxe, refurbished model, or bundle can change the value calculation without changing the underlying comparison.
Official Sources
- Nespresso USA: Vertuo Next specifications and cup sizes
- Nespresso USA: Vertuo Next assistance and manual
- Nespresso USA: VertuoPlus features
- Nespresso: VertuoPlus user manual and specifications
Fluent In Coffee is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Nespresso. Product specifications and availability can change; verify the current manufacturer listing before purchase.
