There are so many different single serve coffee machines out there and in recent years there are now a bunch of different combination units that make single serve coffee and espresso. Nespresso Vertuoline machines and the Keurig K-Cafe machines come to mind first for me.
If you want to own a single serve coffee maker than can also make pod-style espresso at the touch of a button then both of these product lines are worth looking at.
I actually own multiple units from Nespresso’s Vertuoline as well as both the Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition & K-Latte so I know what the differences between these two systems actually is. Give me a few minutes in this article and I’m sure I’ll help you figure it all out so that you can be comfortable deciding which unit you may want to buy.
Before we get into this article further though make sure to see the following posts to see my thoughts on the best Nespresso units sold these days and this post to see my thoughts and reviews of the best Keurig machines sold these days.
Now with that out of the way let’s compare these dual brew coffee/espresso makers.
First Let’s Summarize Keurig’s K-Cafe (Special Edition) & Entry Level K-Latte
Features
If you’re looking for variety then the Keurig K-Cafe could be the ideal solution.
This machine allows you to make lattes, coffee and cappuccinos.
As a result, you won’t have to worry about running out of different drinks to try!
It also offers a water reservoir that is able to hold 60 ounces, so you won’t need to worry about frequent refills.
Many users really enjoy the way this machine makes a wide variety of coffee beverages easier than they’ve ever been.
Keep in mind that you will need to use K-Cups, so that can sometimes limit the coffee options available.
It’s also designed to be easy to use so that customers can get what they need from the machine without too much of a hassle.
Even those who haven’t used one of these machines before are likely to find it’s quite intuitive.
Furthermore, you’ll have a variety of drink options for when you want to mix it up!
Pros
- Allows you to make a wide variety of drinks.
- Includes a frother.
- You’ll be able to opt for a strong brew.
- Makes 4 different beverage sizes.
- Buttons are intuitive and easy to use.
- Includes a 60-ounce water reservoir.
Cons
- There can be instances when the machine turns off without brewing anything.
- In some cases, it can arrive in damaged condition.
- Some customers find that the features are too bare for their preferences.
Summary
There are plenty of benefits you can get from this machine.
It makes coffee and espresso easier, giving you the best of both worlds without a hassle!
From brewing to frothing milk, the entire process is intuitive, easy and quick.
Do keep in mind that you’ll have to use K-Cups, which can be limiting for some coffee-lovers.
There can also be some instances where the unit arrives damaged, so it’s a good idea to make sure to check it over as soon as you get it!
Holding onto your warranty information is also helpful!
Now Let’s Summarize the Nespresso Vertuoline of Coffee & Espresso Makers
Features
Nespresso is another well-known name in the word of coffee and espresso.
Not only is the Nespresso Vertuoline great looking, it also includes the ability to brew just about whatever you need with just a single button press.
Like the K-Cafe, it’s also able to froth both cold and hot milk to add to your beverages.
It’s also able to hold anywhere from 13 to 20 capsules, depending on the size of the capsules you choose.
Furthermore, you’ll be able to enjoy your drinks brewed quickly so you won’t need to wait too long for your brew before work!
To keep you and your home safe, this machine is able to shut itself off after 9 minutes.
As a result, you won’t need to worry if you accidentally forget to turn it off before leaving for work!
You’ll also be able to choose from chrome, red and black designs, allowing you to make the selection that fits into your kitchen best.
It’s able to brew in three different beverage sizes and uses Centrifusion to extract the flavor from Nespresso pods to the fullest extent.
Furthermore, it’s able to recognize the blend being used and brew the perfect beverage accordingly.
It’s absolutely worth a look if you love coffee and espresso!
Pros
- Includes a fantastic milk frother.
- Capable of preparing milk hot or cold quickly.
- Allows you to brew with the press of a button.
- You can use a variety of capsule sizes.
- Lets you eject and insert capsules easily.
- Provides automatic shutoff for safety.
Cons
- Requires the use of Nespresso pods.
- Some users find the quality of the drinks to be lacking.
- In some cases, drinks may not come out as hot as desired.
Summary
This is a great machine for those who want something that includes everything you need, even a milk frother!
You’ll also be able to use both coffee and espresso Nespresso pods, allowing for plenty of variety.
On top of that, inserting and ejecting capsules is simple and easy!
It is important to keep in mind that this machine uses Nespresso pods, so make sure you are okay with the flavors and prices offered.
Compared to some other models, some customers may find that the drinks aren’t as delicious as they had hoped.
However, most find that they’re quite enjoyable.
The Head-To-Head Comparison: What Differentiates These Machines
Price
Depending on the selections you make, the prices on these two machines can be somewhat similar.
However, the Keurig K-Cafe is a bit larger and tends to come with some additions that bring the cost up.
In some cases, it can be found for around $200.
Depending on where you look, you may be able to find it for less.
On the other hand, the Nespresso Vertuoline can range quite a bit.
In some places online, it can be found for around $130 and range to upwards of $200.
As a result, it’s important to take your time to search for the best value at the best price.
Features
One of the differences between these two machines lies in the water reservoir.
The K-Cafe is able to hold 60 ounces of water, while the Nespresso Vertuoline holds 40 ounces.
Both offer quite a decent water reservoir size, but if you want the largest option possible then the K-Cafe is the way to go.
Furthermore, both options also include a milk frother so you won’t need to worry about purchasing one at an extra cost.
Another choice you’ll have to make is between Nespresso pods used by the Vertuoline and K-Cups used by the K-Cafe.
Generally speaking, the different pod options don’t work if you try to use them in a machine of a different brand, particularly when the brand offers its own coffee capsules.
As a result, you’ll want to consider which brand offers more of the flavors you enjoy, and comes at a price you’re willing to pay.
That alone could really drive the decision of which machine to purchase!
Both machines also take up a decent amount of space, so you’ll want to make sure you have room for it!
Overall, it’s hard to go wrong with either of these options.
They both have a lot to offer and provide a variety of coffee and espresso capsule options.
In fact, the number of those options is always growing!
The K-Cafe and Vertuoline definitely have a lot in common, so you’ll want to consider the machines carefully when making your choice.
Which is Better? Which Should You Choose?
Overall, the biggest difference between these two machines is the type of coffee pods they use.
Consequently, you’ll need to consider whether you like K-Cups or Nespresso Pods better.
Once you’ve made that choice, it’ll be much easier to make the choice.
If you don’t have one already, you might also consider a travel mug that works with these machines, that way you can take your coffee or espresso on the go!
For a fully rounded shopping experience, taking a look at some other single serve machines is a great idea.
Whether you choose one of these or something else, you’ll surely love your new coffee experience.
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