What We Loved
- Auto shut-off / sleep timer responsivenesshas a auto off feature which is also kind of nice
- Bluetooth/WiFi connectivityThe virtual pop also comes with Bluetooth connectivity for firmware update dates error notifications and maintenance alerts so that's a small plus
- Coffee Eye cup-detection systemeach of these capsules you have a unique barcode printed around its Edge and when you insert the capsule the laser reader scans the barcode and it tells the machine what the shot volume the Brewing time water temperature and rotation speed
- Color optionsBoth machines come in different color variations
- Counter-space footprintI think both machines fit in any kitchen counter easily so that's uh that shouldn't be a problem
- Heat-up time from cold startIt claims it takes around 30 seconds to warm up
- Included accessoriesthe virtual comes with 12 compliment capsules
- Maintenance alerts & remindersThe virtual pop also comes with Bluetooth connectivity for firmware update dates error notifications and maintenance alerts so that's a small plus
- One-touch brewing conveniencethat's why you only have one button on this machine
- PriceBoth of these machines are relatively cheapthe virtual goes for around 100 bucks
Just Okay
- Auto cup quantity optionsthey're different sizes for different volume
- Crema thickness & texturethe virtual machine produces a thicker Crema but it's more like Airy and bubbly
- Heating-element powerpower-wise they're pretty similar the Nespresso virtual is 1,260 Watts
Needs Improvement
- Capsule availabilityyou can only buy them from espresso no other company produces them yet because they have a patent over them until 2030none of them had the virtual capsules
- Espresso quality compared to traditional machinesthe virtual pop espresso kind of tastes more like a black coffee or instant coffee in my opinion
- Noise levelThis machine is a bit louder than the regular espresso machine and I just want to warn you there
- Ongoing consumable coststhe capsules per pack are over 35% more expensive
- Overall cup quality / flavor balancethe virtual pop espresso kind of tastes more like a black coffee or instant coffee in my opinion
- Serving size satisfaction13 ounces of coffee which is kind of ridiculous in my opinion
