To answer your first question, yes, there are two very different product lines by Nespresso that target different coffee drinkers: The VertuoLine and the OriginalLine.
The good news is that no matter how you take your coffee, one of these will be the perfect coffee machine to suit your needs. The OriginalLine makes espresso and espresso based-drinks while the VertuoLine focuses on black coffee in a range of sizes.
Let’s get down to business and have a closer look at these two product lines have on offer.
 |  |
Pros:
| Pros:
|
Description: VertuoLine machines are for those who prefer more drink options, from an espresso up to a 14 oz. Alto drink. Its barcode technology automatically reads the pods and brews the corresponding drink. | Description: The OriginalLine Nespresso machines specialize in one thing: Making an excellent cup of espresso. With its 19-bar pressure pump, it comes close to the "real thing" of traditional espresso machines. |
- Makes espresso and regular coffee
- Centrifugal extraction system
- Crema is thicker with fuller body
VertuoLine machines are for those who prefer more drink options, from an espresso up to a 14 oz. Alto drink. Its barcode technology automatically reads the pods and brews the corresponding drink.
- Brews espresso with pump
- Capsules are more affordable
- Wider range of machines and capsules
The OriginalLine Nespresso machines specialize in one thing: Making an excellent cup of espresso. With its 19-bar pressure pump, it comes close to the "real thing" of traditional espresso machines.
“Regular Coffee” vs. Espresso Drinks
For dedicated espresso lovers, the OriginalLine Nespresso machines will be well-received. They create an authentic espresso taste from many different capsules. Using pressure-based extraction, this method closely resembles the way traditional espresso is made.
The Nespresso VertuoLine has one significant advantage over the OringinalLine; it makes regular coffee and lots of it. Using a barcode system, the VertuoLine machines can tell what size and exactly how to brew your capsule without you having to do anything.
| VertuoLine | OriginalLine | |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing Tech | Centrifugal extraction | Pressure-based |
| Drink Types | Espresso & Regular Coffee | Espresso |
| Crema | Thicker | Thinner |
| Machines Available | Less | More |
| Capsule Cost | $1.15 – $1.40 | $0.80 – $1.10 |
| Built-in Milk Frother | None of the machines | Some of the machines |
Our Top Models
Let me introduce my favorite models for each line – the Vertuo and the CitiZ.
The Vertuo does everything that is promised by making four different cup sizes ranging from an espresso to a carafe. This is perfect when you have guests over, or you’re just having one of those days. Making regular coffee is a major difference between the VertuoLine and the OriginalLine.
Thanks to the Centrifusion technology, I found the crema to be slightly thicker and ‘airier’ compared to OriginalLine brewers. This is something you might want to keep in mind if you’re looking for perfect espresso consistency.
The installed barcode reader will obtain information from each capsule and then program the machine to use the correct water temperature, rotation speed, layer of crema, etc., to create the best cup of coffee for that capsule.
The Vertuo is also surprisingly fast, taking only around 15 seconds to heat up. This means you can have a cup of coffee in under a minute, ready to drink.
- Large water reservoir and used capsule bin
- Brews regular coffee
- 4 different brew sizes
- 15 seconds heat-up time
- Barcode reader automates brew settings
- Smaller selection of coffee capsules
This is not the most advanced nor expensive OriginalLine coffee maker that Nespresso offers, but it’s the most well-rounded and goes for a fair price for what you get.
The goal of the Nespresso CitiZ is to create an authentic espresso experience. The advanced technology makes a classic espresso quickly and with minimal effort. This machine uses a unique 19-bar pressure extraction system which is the old-fashioned method of applying pressure to enhance flavor and enjoyment.
One thing to note is that the Aeroccino milk frother is not included and has to be bought separately. If you decide to get it, you open up a whole new world of quality coffee drinks you can do at home.
The selection of coffee capsules far outweighs that of the VertuoLine, so you can experiment with many different coffee flavors to spice up your morning.
Needing 25 seconds to heat up, the CitiZ takes slightly longer to get ready compared to the Vertuo. Still, it’s able to brew espresso shots in less than 90 seconds from start to finish.
I found the stylish design refreshing, as it suits almost any kitchen decor. It works excellent in condos and apartments due to its compact size.
- Makes espresso and lungo drinks
- Uses 19-bar pressure extraction
- Large selection of capsules
- The design caters to smaller spaces
- Does not make regular coffee
- Longer heat up time
Feature Showdown: VertuoLine vs OriginalLine
Let’s move on to the most important features you should keep in mind when deciding between the Vertuo and the Original.
Drink Types
One of the main differences between OriginalLine and VertuoLine is the types of drinks you can make. With the VertuoLine, you can make “regular coffee” and espresso with a range of cup sizes, including espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug, and alto.
Brewing a carafe can come in handy when you need it. There are also those times when you want to curl up on the couch with a good book and sip a large mug of your favorite coffee.
The OriginalLine, on the other hand, only brews espresso. Depending on the machine, this translates into two or three different sizes, i.e., espresso, lungo, and ristretto.
The VertuoLine takes the crown here.
Winner: VertuoLine
Brewing Method
There is a fundamental difference in how these two machines brew your java. The VertuoLine machines use centrifugal technology, whereas the OriginalLine sticks to pressure to push water through the capsules.
The centrifugal force is used to better customize each capsule through its special barcode scanning technology. This means you don’t have to tinker with different settings or controls on your machine; it does the work for you.
Both methods of operation are very effective; it just depends on your preference.
Winner: Draw
Design
The designs are contemporary, as you would expect, and are both on-brand for those Nespresso wants to target. They have a classy and sophisticated look that will elevate the appearance of any kitchen they sit in.
But having the right amount of space for your new machine is the real issue.
Back to our two favorite models, The Vertuo is much larger than the CitiZ and requires a larger footprint on your countertop. This is understandable, given the size of the water tank and the discarded capsule bin.
Since the CitiZ is designed to make smaller quantities, it would make sense that the machine is also smaller. Pick out a spot in your kitchen first and compare it to the dimensions listed above to see if your favorite machine will fit where you want it to.
Winner: OriginalLine
Ease of Use
Ease of use is something all Nespresso machines have in common. Base models are just as user-friendly as super-luxury models, a huge selling point for Nespresso models in general.
As for the OriginalLine and VertuoLine machines, both have single-button use and automatic buttons to make things easy. Once you get the hang of either of these brewers, you’ll be making barista-grade beverages in no time.
The VertuoLine machines are still slightly easier to use because of their barcode scanning technology. It recognizes each capsule and automatically brews the corresponding drink.
Winner: VertuoLine
Price
The price depends on the individual machines and their respective capabilities. The more bells and whistles, the higher the price. However, there is no clear tendency as to which line has higher price tags.
Back to our Vertuo vs CitiZ comparison, the Citiz commands a slightly higher price.
Thankfully, Nespresso makes all their machines with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, so even the cheaper options will be with you for a long time.
Winner: Draw
Customer Reviews
Understandably, consumers seem to be split on which is the superior machine simply because everyone has different needs. ‘Writermom’ had this to say about her CitiZ;
“I recently traveled to Beijing and the hotel had an espresso machine that made the best Italian coffee with fantastic crema. My regular coffee at home just wasn’t measuring up. So I decided this Christmas to give Nespresso a try. So far, love the machine. The milk frother works fantastic and the espresso and lungo from the machine is really good. Just like the Italian coffees I had in Beijing. Their product just makes me happy.”
When we’re dealing with advanced capsule brewing technology, it’s tough to find poignant negative reviews. There were many just like this one from ‘The Tam’ster’ raving about the experience they had with the Vertuo;
“I enjoy this model because I can have both coffee and espressos. It reads the pod and knows which I am brewing. It automatically ejects the pod and is ready for the new one when you open the top. How cute. Really enjoying the great flavors I could only get in a coffee house.”
FAQs
Can the Vertuo Make Espresso?
Yes, the Vertuo can make espresso and “regular coffee”. Although you’ll find it creates extra crema compared to traditional espresso makers.
Can the OriginalLine make regular coffee?
No, OriginalLine coffee makers cannot make a regular cup of coffee. Its main benefit is producing espresso in a very short amount of time. If you really wanted to, you could add hot water from a kettle to a single espresso in a mug. With a bit of cream and sugar, you have a cup of ‘americano’ with minimal effort.
Does the OriginalLine offer a third-party option for capsules?
Yes, the OriginalLine offers third-party options. There are tons of flavors and blends to choose from. Nespresso is also constantly releasing new options, so you’ll never have to worry about getting the same coffee twice if you’re new to either machine.
The Final Verdict
This was one of the tougher reviews since both brewers answer different questions.
I love that the Vertuo can make a mug’s worth of coffee or more. This seems more in line with the culture of coffee on the western side of the pond.
But I also love a shot of espresso, and I think the OriginalLine is just slightly better at it with its original pressure-based technology.
So, there you have it: If you can’t go without an Americano, get the Vertuo. If you love espresso more, choose an OriginalLine machine for the full experience.
