Nespresso Vertuo Black
Score: 79/100
Keurig K-Elite Silver
Score: 78/100Rankings
The Nespresso Vertuo Matte Black is a single-serve machine that uses Centrifusion™ technology to deliver espresso-style crema in as little as 15-20 seconds, supporting four cup sizes via barcode recognition. Its main drawbacks are the exclusive Vertuo capsule system, a modest water tank and the absence of an integrated milk frother. It is best for solo drinkers or small households that prioritize quick, high-quality espresso over pod flexibility.
The Keurig K-Elite offers a sizable 75 oz reservoir, temperature and strength controls, and an iced-coffee setting, making it a versatile choice for single-serve brewing. Drawbacks include scaling issues, a need to modify the reusable filter, and the absence of a timer or descale button. Ideal for users who value customization and a large water capacity in a compact countertop machine.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,183 ml | 2,218 mlbest | |
1,500 Wbest | 1,470 W | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,500 W | 1,470 Wbest |
9 minutesbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 4,899 g | 3,628.7 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 17.5 secondsbest | — |
1 yearsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(1) | ||
Compatible Pod Systems | Nespresso Vertuo | K-Cup; reusable My K-Cup |
Power(2) | ||
Power Wattage (W) | 1500 W | 1470 W |
Power Consumption (W) | 1500 W | 1470 W |
Design & Capacity(3) | ||
Water Reservoir Capacity (ml) | 1183 ml | 2218 ml |
Weight (g) | 4899 g | 3628.7 g |
Dimensions (HxWxD) (cm) | 12 x 12 x 8 inches cm | 33.3x32.3x25.2 cm cm |
Features(1) | ||
Brew Size Options | espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, coffee | 4-12 oz |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | 13 used pod container, starter capsule set | water filter handle; water filter |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Vertuo for its fast heat-up, intuitive one-touch operation, and especially its ability to produce a genuine espresso-style crema using the patented Centrifusion system. The barcode-driven brewing parameters are praised for delivering consistent taste across the four cup sizes, while the sleek matte-black aesthetic and energy-saving auto shut-off add to its appeal. Criticisms focus on the closed-system pod restriction, modest water-tank size, and the absence of an integrated milk frother.
Consumers overwhelmingly enjoy the rich flavor and thick crema, noting that a single button delivers coffee quickly and reliably. The compact design and stylish finish are repeatedly praised, as is the adjustable drip tray for travel mugs. Recurring complaints center on the exclusive Vertuo capsule requirement, the need to refill the 40 oz tank often, occasional priming for hotter brews, and the lack of a built-in frother, which some users must purchase separately.
“ease of use, design, taste”
“Excellent coffee quality, ease of use, and design”
“set the last one out to the curb”
Professional reviewers highlight the K-Elite's premium aesthetic, programmable functions, and extensive customization options such as temperature and strength control. They commend its versatility for both hot and iced beverages, while noting the absence of a timer or dedicated descale button and the potential for hard-water scaling as drawbacks.
Everyday users consistently praise the machine's coffee quality, ease of use, and attractive design, especially appreciating the iced coffee feature and tall-mug compatibility. Common complaints revolve around hard-water scaling problems, the lack of a timer or descale button, and the need to modify reusable pods.
