It’s an impressive system, with plenty of coffee choices, including espresso, double espresso, grand lungo, mug and alto (large mug) options. Nespresso launched with an impressive array of coffee types, including flavoured ones, and the range has extended: see my best Nespresso Vertuo pod round-up for more details. You’ll need to clean the drip tray from time to time, although the centrifugal system means that you don’t get many drips once you’ve removed your mug of coffee. Roast level: The length of time the coffee beans have been roasted for can also affect the flavour. Lighter roasts usually have more acidity and fruity notes, while darker roasts tend to be bolder with caramel or chocolate undertones. Have a go at experimenting with different roast levels to find your preferred taste.

This Nespresso machine can make five different drink sizes, so we wanted to test each of them for accuracy and taste. We next used a Melozio coffee pod, which is medium-strength and makes 7.75 fl oz / 320ml of coffee. The brewing process took 100 seconds from when we pressed to button to when the coffee was ready to drink, and the quantity produced was exactly as the pod promised. Depending on your budget and desired amount of control over the coffee-making process, look out for these features.

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This coffee maker reads the barcode on each coffee pod you place inside so that it can brew the coffee correctly. This also means that you have to use patented Nespresso capsules in the Vertuo Next – the machine isn’t compatible with generic pods. After you’ve placed a capsule inside the Vertuo Next, the machine uses what Nespresso calls ‘centrifusion force’ to spin it at high speeds so that the coffee it produces is smooth and has a good crema on top. Finally, when the machine blinks orange, it’s time to descale. You’ll need to grab the manual to follow the exact instructions, but it’s a straightforward process. Should you buy the Nespresso Vertuo Next?

If you don’t like the defaults, there are options: you can manually stop the flow of coffee when you’re done, or you can top up with extra water; and, you can press and hold the button down until you have the right amount of coffee to set a new delivery amount. Defaults are stored per coffee type, so you need to remember to press-and-hold the button for each coffee type. You’ll have to empty the drip tray and occasionally descale the machine, but these are simple processes The Vertuo Next has a removable drip tray that’s easy to clean, and the used pods collect in the capsule holder, which slides out of the machine with ease. We did find that pouring out the used capsules into the recycling bag was sometimes a bit messy, as the pods tend to have dregs of coffee left inside them. Adjustable drip tray or espresso outlet: a silky layer of hazelnut foam called crema is one characteristic that defines espresso, so you don't want the coffee to splash out! These will also mean the machine can accommodate your favourite mug, whatever the size. The Vertuo Next is a smaller, leaner coffee machine that fits into a smaller space (320 x 140 x 380mm). Part of the space-saving is down to the smaller 1.1-litre water tank at the rear. Even so, with the majority of Nespresso Vertuo pods delivering 230ml of drink, you can get four mugs out of this machine before having to refill it.Nespresso’s Vertuo machines, including the Vertuo Next and the Nespresso Vertuo Plus, give you more choice in terms of cup sizes than the brand’s Original line, and you’re able to choose from five different cup sizes, ranging from an espresso up to a 41ml drink. The cup stand on this machine is adjustable so that you can use cups and mugs of different heights.