Nespresso Vertuo vs Evoluo – How Do They Compare?

We have a real battle on our hands here between two VertuoLine coffee makers. Two titan coffee makers are putting their best foot forward in an effort to impress you. These are not to be confused with Nespresso’s OrginalLine which has a separate line of makers with their own pros and cons.  

This article examines the differences between the VertuoPlus and the Vertuo Evoluo. Both makers optimize pod technology with a simple, one-button brew process, centrifugal extraction, and are nestled under the Swiss umbrella of Nespresso. 

They may have a lot in common, but that’s not what we’re here for. We’re here to spot the differences and see which brewer packs the best punch, giving you a superior, reliable cup of coffee while not trading convenience. 

A Closer Look At Our Contenders

Let’s put each of the coffee makers to the test!

The Nespresso VertuoPlus

The VertuoPlus is our recommended contender to compete against the defending Evoluo. The Plus uses 2nd generation technology and has been refined and improved on from the OG Vertuo maker. 

The Plus utilizes all the distinctive features championed by Nespresso, including a compact design, and centrifugal brewing, all while maintaining its capsule-based coffee maker status.  

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The Nespresso Evoluo 

The Evoluo is largely considered the advanced version of the VertuoPlus, with added features and greater attention to detail paid towards your coffee temperature and coffee quality. Let’s take a look and spot the differences. 

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Feature Comparisons 

Here we take a deep dive into what you can expect from each brewer. 

Brewing

Both the VertuoPlus and the Evoluo use capsule scanning technology that reads the barcode attached to the lid of your pod. From there, you simply press your desired cup size, and in no time at all, you have your coffee.

Ease of use is championed by Nespresso, and it is the company of choice for those who want their mornings less complicated. 

You don’t have to worry about measuring, cleaning up stray coffee grounds or coffee powders, and what can be the complex brewing mechanics of other makers. You get consistent, rich coffee every time and with authentic crema. 

Taste

With centrifugal technology, you have a fully automated coffee experience. Your machine spins the grounds held within the capsule to unlock the flavor and aromas of your coffee, as it begins the extraction rate before your brew. 

Both the VertuoPlus and the Evoluo rotate at up to 7,000 revolutions per minute; because both brewers have the same motor and thereby the same extraction rate, what sets them apart? Two words: heating element. 

If you’re someone who likes your coffee smokin’ hot, I’d have to say the Evoluo wins this round. 

The VertuoPlus has a heating element of 1350W, while the Evoluo has one up to 1600W. The Evoluo also has a bigger water tank meaning your brewer is still energy-efficient and won’t overheat. 

The difference in power also gives you a faster brew speed with the Evoluo. Your water heats in less than 20 seconds, while the VertuoPlus can take almost 40.

Design

At a glance, the biggest difference between these machines comes down to overall brewing, while their carefully designed looks are more or less a mirror of each other. 

The Evoluo and The Plus both feature great energy-saving detail in their design where the brewer shuts off after 9 minutes of inactivity; if you’re forgetful, Nespresso’s got you covered. Your utility bill will thank you.

Both machines are made to be compact and save you space; these makers stand as some of the smallest single-button brewers on the coffee market. 

There are limited color options for both the Plus and the Evoluo, though they come in an all-matching, jet black or a slick silver. Both are made from high-quality plastics that have been tested to withstand your machine’s daily usage and overall wear and tear. 

Closing and Opening Mechanism 

One design feature I really like about the VertuoPlus over the Evoluo is that the machine head has an automatic closing and opening mechanism. 

This stood out to me in all its coffee nerd, techy charm glory. It’s almost like the Plus is inviting you to make a second cup. 

Where the Evoluo stands apart is in its coffee capsule storage. The Evoluo can store 17 used pods within the maker, while the VertuoPlus can only store 10.

If you hate emptying your storage container and trying to find your recycling bags as much as I do, this is a huge win. 

Water Reservoir 

Another stand-out difference between these two brewers is their water reservoirs. The VertuoPlus has a 40-ounce water tank, while the Evoluo’s can hold 54 ounces. 

If you’re a single cup a day, moderate coffee drinker, you can probably get away with the smaller-sized reservoir of the VertuoPlus. But why settle for less? 

Bring Out The Big Guns

The difference between these two brewers is a 26% larger size going to the Evoluo. Compared to the Plus, the Evoluo can give you 10 extra espressos or an additional 2 large cups of coffee before you need to refill your mineral water. 

The Evoluo’s bigger water tank will fit right in with your coffee lifestyle and especially for coffee connoisseurs brewing more than one cup a day, or for households and workplaces with more coffee drinkers than not.

Pods

It’s important to note that the original pod line patented by Nespresso is incompatible with Vertuoline makers. This includes both the VertuoPlus and the Evoluo. 

That said, this is a good thing. Nespresso has engineered pods specifically for the Vertuoline, releasing all the coffee roasts and variety you’ve loved from the original line, plus some added, exciting new flavors. 

The new flavors launched by Nespresso add a touch of French bakery and Italian countryside. Some of my new favorites are the Vanilla Custard, Bianco Leggaro, or the always deliciously toasted Pour Over style with a mild smoky taste. 

The only drawback is a small increase in price per pod. The Colombia coffee roast goes for $0.85 cents per pod from the original line, while the same Colombia Vertuo pod goes for $1.35.

Reviews 

Let’s hear from customer reviews and what people think of the VertuoPlus and the Evoluo. 

Nathan writes on the Amazon’s Evoluo product page: 

Nathan and many other reviewers agree that Evoluo’s powerful, 1600W heating element brews a piping hot, savory cup of coffee. With over 600 reviews online, Evoluo averages a 5-star rating at 87% across the board. 

A close second to the Evoluo is the VertuoPlus, with a 5-star review average of 81% on Amazon. Trevor writes that it is an “awesome little machine”: 

A handful of reviewers on Amazon highlighted a critical design flaw of the VertuoPlus, that being the Plus’ automated maintenance alerts. Teah left a 1-star review on Amazon saying: 

This may mean that your maintenance alerts are programmed disproportionately to your usage, and might require you to ignore them as you get your notifications. Bit of a red flag for the VertuoPlus’ maintenance and support, as it defeats the purpose of the automated alert system.

Conclusion

All things considered, the Evoluo came out on top. I’ve given the Evoluo the edge for two reasons:

• Powerful Heating Element of 1600W for a more balanced temperature to your java.  
• 54 Ounce Water Reservoir for added convenience and less refilling. 

The VertuoPlus competed hard, but ultimately, it couldn’t contend with these two features and the added benefit these give coffee lovers. The VertuoPlus also has a longer brew speed of 40 seconds and an unreliable descaling alert system. 

So there you have it, the Evoluo will make a noticed, welcome addition to your coffee routine; you’ll finally start looking forward to your mornings.