The VertuoPlus perfectly balances features, price and design, making it the best Nespresso machine for most people. It’s also one of the most affordable Nespresso machines out there, making it a good entry for consumers who are interested in trying out this type of appliance.

Despite the budget-friendly price point, this appliance is highly functional. Because it’s part of the VertuoLine, it can make both coffee and espresso, and it uses barcodes on each specially-designed capsule to brew the right strength and volume every time. Choose from five drink types: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto. Then let the machine do the work — there’s nothing to think about, thanks to that automatic detection of capsule type. For a little something extra, you can always use the brand’s Aeroccino milk frother — the best milk frother we’ve tested — in tandem with the machine.

In our tests, every cup of coffee came out hot and well-rounded with a luxurious, thick crema. We also liked that there’s one top-facing button that controls everything: power, rinsing and brewing. Adding to the convenience, the unit is relatively compact, the position of the water tank can be adjusted to accommodate any counter space and the lid opens and closes with one touch of the lever. If there’s any downside, it’s that this Nespresso machine is only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo pods — but this isn’t unique to this particular model, as the different types of pods aren’t interchangeable.