Nespresso Vertuoline vs Nespresso OriginalLine: Which One Is Better?
When it comes to choosing between the Nespresso Vertuoline and the Nespresso OriginalLine, consumers often find themselves questioning which machine suits their needs best. Both models have their unique features, but in many ways, the original OriginalLine machine is still the go-to choice for coffee enthusiasts.
The Virtuous Makes Regular Coffee Plus Expression, while the Original Only Makes Espresso
The Vertuoline makes both regular coffee and espresso plus expression, but there are some limitations. For instance, the Vertuoline does not accept capsules from other brands, which means you can only use Nespresso-specific capsules. Since these capsules are relatively expensive, this might not be a favorable point for budget-conscious users.
Which Machine Is Better: Vertuoline or OriginalLine?
My opinion is that the OriginalLine is a better machine compared to the newer Vertuoline. Here's why:
Pressure Comparison
The OriginalLine uses 19-bar pressure to extract the coffee capsules, similar to a traditional espresso machine. In contrast, the Vertuoline uses a Centrifusion system. This system creates holes in the top of the coffee capsules, injects hot water, and then spins the capsules extremely fast (up to 7,000 RPMs) to extract all of the brewed coffee. This unique method might be efficient, but it's not as commonly understood or appreciated by all coffee lovers.
Bar Code Scanning System
The Vertuoline introduces a barcode scanning system on the side of the coffee capsules. This system tells the machine the cup size, temperature, rotational speed, flow rate, and brewing time. While this feature is a definite plus for customized extraction, it also comes with a downside: it doesn't allow for the use of 3rd party capsules from other resellers. On the other hand, the OriginalLine is more flexible, making it possible to use a wider range of compatible capsules from various stores.
Pricing and Capsule Cost
One of the most significant differences between the two machines is the cost of the capsules. The OriginalLine capsules are generally cheaper, ranging from $0.75 to $0.85 per capsule. In contrast, the Vertuoline capsules are more expensive, typically costing between $0.90 and $1.25 per capsule. This makes the OriginalLine a more budget-friendly option in the long run.
Coffee Brewing Sizes
The Vertuoline can brew full-sized coffees up to 17 oz, whereas the OriginalLine is limited to espresso shots. While this might be a significant feature for some, for those who prefer the traditional espresso size, the OriginalLine remains a superior choice.
Water Temperature and Extraction Process
The Vertuoline uses a slightly cooler water temperature for extraction, which can result in coffee that is a bit underextracted when compared to the OriginalLine machines. This difference can be noticeable, especially to those who are particular about their coffee.
A Personal Opinion
While there are definite advantages to the Vertuoline, particularly in terms of customization and full-sized coffee brewing, I personally prefer the OriginalLine machine. The OriginalLine's straightforward extraction process and the flexibility of using different capsules make it a more satisfying choice for me. The cost of the capsules might be higher, but the overall user experience is better.
The answer is that it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, when it comes to a high-quality, traditional espresso experience, the OriginalLine often stands out as the better choice.