Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline: Full Comparison Of 2 Machines Of The Same Line

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Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline contest pits the two most practical, least expensive, and most effective designs against one another. So which one walks away with the crown?

I pick the Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo as the winner. This machine has an outstanding 54oz water tank and has good temperature control. Its espresso tastes nutty and very rich. This model, which also has an auto shut-off feature, is perfect for novices who like to make good espresso shots quickly.

The Breville Nespresso Vertuoline features a 15-second heat-up time as well as similar conveniences to the Delonghi, such as auto shut-off and descaling warning. But, it lacks a large enough water tank, and occasionally you need to warm the cup for better espresso flavor and temperature.

Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline: Comparison Chart

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi, Piano Black
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville, Chrome
Model
Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo
Breville Nespresso Vertuo
Dimensions (wxdxh)
9 x 12.2 x 12.3 inches
9 x 12.2 x 12.3 Inches
Water Tank Capacity
54 oz
40 oz
Material
Metal & plastic
Plastic and metal
Weight/ Power/ voltage
11 pounds/ 1350W/ 120V
11 Pounds/ 1350W/ 120V
Color
Black
Black
Heating System
Thermoblock
Thermoblock
Automatic Power Off
Adjustable coffee volume
Capsule recognition technology
Direct descale alert from machine's interface
Average Heat-up Time
25s
15s
Capsule container
17 capsules
12 capsules
Coffee recipes
Espresso, lungo
Espresso, mug
Pump pressure
CENTRIFUSION™ technology
CENTRIFUSION™ technology
Interface
Dial plate
Dial plate
What I Like
Price
$147.08
$150.08
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi, Piano Black
Model
Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo
Dimensions (wxdxh)
9 x 12.2 x 12.3 inches
Water Tank Capacity
54 oz
Material
Metal & plastic
Weight/ Power/ voltage
11 pounds/ 1350W/ 120V
Color
Black
Heating System
Thermoblock
Automatic Power Off
Adjustable coffee volume
Capsule recognition technology
Direct descale alert from machine's interface
Average Heat-up Time
25s
Capsule container
17 capsules
Coffee recipes
Espresso, lungo
Pump pressure
CENTRIFUSION™ technology
Interface
Dial plate
What I Like
Price
$147.08
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville, Chrome
Model
Breville Nespresso Vertuo
Dimensions (wxdxh)
9 x 12.2 x 12.3 Inches
Water Tank Capacity
40 oz
Material
Plastic and metal
Weight/ Power/ voltage
11 Pounds/ 1350W/ 120V
Color
Black
Heating System
Thermoblock
Automatic Power Off
Adjustable coffee volume
Capsule recognition technology
Direct descale alert from machine's interface
Average Heat-up Time
15s
Capsule container
12 capsules
Coffee recipes
Espresso, mug
Pump pressure
CENTRIFUSION™ technology
Interface
Dial plate
What I Like
Price
$150.08
More Info

Last update on 2024-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline: Differences

Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo wins 2-0 and twice ties Breville Vertuo. Despite being in the same product line, Delonghi succeeds in brewing hotter cups and keeping water from leaking out of the water tank’s trajectory. There are so many other small details that you need to know below!

Coffee flavor and Brewing system

Tie!

Heating system

Both machines are equipped with the Thermoblock system, ensuring water is heated swiftly and efficiently. With the ability to boil water in approximately 25 seconds and complete the brewing process within 60 seconds, these machines score well in the ‘quick coffee fix’ department. However, the Breville Vertuo offers more stable operation over time.

While the Breville Vertuo is more stable, it does generate some noise during the brewing process. This might not be a significant drawback for everyone, but it could be a minor annoyance if you’re looking for a quieter machine.

Breville Nespresso Vertuo doesn't leak at all
Breville Nespresso Vertuo doesn’t leak at all

One downside to the Delonghi machine was its tendency to leak through the bottom of the water tank after a few months of usage. While this is likely not an issue that affects all units, it does raise questions about long-term durability, particularly in comparison to the more stable Breville Vertuo.

Though quick and powerful, both machines seem to hit a temperature ceiling of approximately 160°F. While this is hot enough for immediate consumption, it poses a problem when adding mix-ins like cream or ice cream, which significantly lower the temperature of your beverage.

As a workaround, I’ve taken to rinsing the coffee cup with boiling water prior to brewing. This helps retain the coffee’s heat and enhances flavor but adds an extra step to your coffee-making routine, which might negate some of the convenience of a Nespresso machine.

Brewing system

Both Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline machines incorporate cutting-edge technologies to optimize the espresso-making process. Each utilizes capsule recognition technology and CENTRIFUSION™ technology. The capsule recognition system scans the barcode on the inserted capsule to dispense the precise amount of water required for that specific espresso blend. This ensures that you get a consistent brew each time without having to fuss over settings.

The CENTRIFUSION™ technology takes the brewing process to the next level by utilizing centrifugal force to produce a smooth, rich cup of espresso topped with a thick layer of “crema.” I’ve tested both machines with various cups of cappuccino and latte, and the results were impressively similar.

Both produced espresso that was rich in flavor and fully captured the essence of the coffee. In essence, either machine offers a highly automated, quality brewing system that makes it difficult to discern a significant difference in the taste profile of the espresso it produces.

Milk system

The Winner: Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo

Milk-based coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos are favorites among many coffee lovers, making the milk system a crucial component to consider when comparing the Breville Vertuo and Delonghi Nespresso machines.

One notable difference lies in the temperature of the coffee, particularly after the warm-up period. The Delonghi machine tends to deliver hotter cups compared to the Breville Nespresso Vertuo. This issue with the Breville machine is not an isolated one; several other users have reported the same problem. If you like your coffee especially hot, you might find the Breville falls short in this area.

Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo has better temperature performance
Delonghi’s Nespresso Vertuo has better temperature performance

In terms of taste, Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline impress with their Centrifugation technology, efficiently extracting rich and nuanced flavors. I found the coffee to have a slightly floral note, particularly when opting for a more concentrated espresso over a lungo. Both machines offer consistency in flavor extraction, making either a good choice for those who prioritize taste in their coffee experience.

While a thick layer of coffee crema often indicates a quality espresso, the Breville sometimes takes it to the extreme. I’ve experienced layers of crema that were 3-4 cm (around 1.5 inches) thick, which, rather than impressing me, had me questioning the machine’s Centrifugation logic. This isn’t a common occurrence but is something to note if the ideal thickness of crema is important to you.

Design & Convenience

The Winner: Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo

Design

Breville’s machines usually feature a more rounded top, giving the machine a softer, more organic appearance. This design choice is not only visually pleasing but also subtly evokes a sense of comfort and warmth. The rounded corners might make the machine feel more approachable, and they can seamlessly integrate into kitchens with a variety of design themes, from modern to rustic.

Breville's machines usually feature a more rounded top
Breville’s machines usually feature a more rounded top

On the other hand, DeLonghi often opts for sharper edges, imparting a more geometric, angular look. This design feature gives DeLonghi machines a slightly more contemporary and sleek vibe. The sharper edges often result in a more compact look, which might appeal to consumers who are seeking a minimalist or industrial aesthetic for their kitchen appliances.

Despite these differences in the top design, both brands share similarities in other design aspects. For instance, both have a cylindrical water tank and a used capsule container situated at the back of the machine, ensuring that they don’t interfere with the machine’s overall aesthetic when viewed from the front. Both also feature a faucet and a drip tray, common elements that are essential for the machine’s functionality but also maintain a uniform look across brands.

Water tank

The DeLonghi Vertuo comes equipped with a 54-ounce water tank, substantially larger than Breville’s 40-ounce counterpart. This increased capacity makes the DeLonghi machine a more convenient choice for households or offices where 3–4 large coffee drinks are consumed per day. The larger tank means fewer refills, saving time and effort over the course of a busy day.

Breville Nespresso has 40 ounce water tank
Breville Nespresso has 40 ounce water tank

Breville’s water tank, on the other hand, is better suited for single users or, at most, a two-person scenario. If your coffee consumption pattern involves making just a cup or two each day, the Breville machine can be a suitable choice. However, it’s worth noting that the smaller tank size isn’t well-suited for frequent, high-volume usage. Making a large number of cups daily could lead to faster wear and tear, shortening the lifespan of the machine. So, if you’re planning on heavy daily use, the Breville might not be the most durable option.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Tie!

One of the standout features of the Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline is its user-friendly cleaning process. The machine is compatible with cleaning capsules that are filled with specialized liquid soap, streamlining the maintenance routine. Inserting a cleaning capsule into the Vertuo mimics the process of making coffee, only instead, the machine undergoes a thorough internal cleaning. This not only simplifies the cleaning process but also ensures that the machine stays hygienic and functional.

Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo has a stable descale alert system
Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo has a stable descale alert system

Additionally, the Delonghi vs Breville Nespresso Vertuoline comes equipped with descaling alerts. Descaling is essential for the longevity of any coffee machine, as it helps to remove mineral buildup that can affect performance over time. The descaling alerts on the Vertuo take the guesswork out of maintenance by notifying the user when it’s time for a descale. This automated alert system eliminates the need for you to keep track of a descaling schedule, which can be particularly useful for those who may not use their coffee machine on a regular, predictable basis.

Quick Rundown of Delonghi Nespresso Vertuo

Sale
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi, Piano Black
  • SINGLE SERVE COFFEE & ESPRESSO MACHINE: Single serve coffee or espresso at the touch of a button. Innovative programs and features such as 25 sec heat up & energy saving automatic shut off.
  • COFFEE FOR EVERY OCCASION: Brew better coffee at home with Nespresso's coffee espresso machine! Drink your coffee bold, mild hot, or iced.
  • VERSATILE COFFEE MAKER: Brew 4 different cup sizes at the touch of a button (5oz & 8oz coffee, single & double espresso). Pour over ice to create your favorite blend of iced coffee and lattes.
  • INCLUDES: One Vertuo Nespresso coffee machine with an extra-large 54 ounce water tank, a 17 count used pods container.
  • COMPLIMENTARY GIFT: Each machine includes a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules (capsule assortment may vary from picture).

Last update on 2024-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Large water tank that requires fewer refills
  • Good flow stop function that avoids spilling or splashing
  • Good crema formation, not too thick like with Vertuo Next
  • Perfect espresso flavor with good mouthfeel
  • Larger capsule container capacity than almost all Nespresso machines
Cons
  • If the water tank isn’t filled or cleaned properly, it will leak

Quick Rundown of Breville Nespresso Vertuo

Sale
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker by Breville, Black
  • SINGLE SERVE COFFEE & ESPRESSO MACHINE: Single serve coffee or espresso at the touch of a button. Innovative programs and features such as 25 sec heat up & energy saving automatic shut off.
  • COFFEE FOR EVERY OCCASION: Brew better coffee at home with Nespresso's coffee espresso machine! Drink your coffee bold, mild hot, or iced.
  • VERSATILE COFFEE MAKER: Brew 4 different cup sizes at the touch of a button (5oz & 8oz coffee, single & double espresso). Pour over ice to create your favorite blend of iced coffee and lattes.
  • INCLUDES: One Vertuo Nespresso coffee machine with a large 40 ounce water tank, a 13 count used pods container.
  • COMPLIMENTARY GIFT: Each machine includes a complimentary starter set of Nespresso capsules (capsule assortment may vary from picture).

Last update on 2024-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Solid and durable construction
  • Quick and efficient brewing results
  • Adjustable drip tray for different cup heights
  • Technique for quickly collecting capsules that saves time
  • Quick extraction of the shot and heat-up times
Cons
  • Issue with water temperature
  • Smaller water tank capacity

Product Videos

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References

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