Update: For a limited time Starbucks is offering an additional 20% off on the Verismo V Brewer (use code: HAPPYNEWGEAR)
Modern coffee makers have reinvented the entire concept of home brewing with the creation and evolution of single serve coffee makers. Dozens of brands and styles can be found on the market at any moment ranging from the price of a dinner at a nice restaurant to the cost of a used vehicle. Yet, the popularity of barista-style home service has barely affected the $32 billion coffee house industry. In fact, it seems to just get stronger. As the industry leader, Starbucks propels the social caffeinated collaboration onward and upward with their bevy of modern beverages and tasty treats. Like any type of business, to continue growing Starbucks had to establish new ways to make the public excited over roasted beans soaked in water. In 2012, their newest brewing systems were introduced to the world. Starbucks employees not only use Verismo brewers to create the addictive drinks millions of Americans crave daily, but customers can now purchase their own system right at home. The Verismo V Brewer is the most recent addition to the Verismo lineup. But what are the pros and cons of owning such a treasure? Check out our full Verismo V Brewer Review below to find out.
What Makes the Verismo V Brewer Different from Other Brewers?
It's hard to remain a stand out in the highly competitive coffee world nowadays. Starbucks may be the caffeine king of coffeehouses, but Keurig is often considered king of brewing systems. Combining the two was a hard task that left a lot of Starbucks loyalists reeling in the process. While Starbucks only held onto 17% of Green Mountain concept drinks, that propelled them as the leading pod brand choice for Keurig single brewers. But since Starbucks is always thinking outside of the box, the inevitable had to happen.
In 2013, the Verismo 580 was released. It still used pods, but it also whipped up a decent espresso unlike similar machines. But there was still room for improvement. Creating a sleeker design, better pod case, and frothing attachment option, the new Verismo V offers extra coffee creation options for true Starbucks fanatics.
No Verismo V Brewer review would be complete without a simple and easy to understand breakdown of its pros and cons.
First, the pros of which there are many:
- New espresso technology ensures high-compression extraction pulls out the unique flavors of each espresso pod.
- Starbucks pods are color-coded for easy reference. And the company is developing more pod flavors for greater customer convenience and enjoyment.
- Low-pressure water extraction can be chosen at the push of a button for a slower drip and more balanced brew.
- Three roast profiles can be used for tailor-made espresso. Choose between blonde, medium, or dark standards or specialty blends.
- The Verismo Milk Frother has two heat settings to improve the taste, consistency, and presentation of hot or cold specialty drinks.
- Non-dairy milk options may be used as well. This is perfect for those who are lactose-intolerant, on specialty diets, or who just prefer almond, coconut, or soy milk in their caffeinated concoctions.
- It's efficient and meant to be used daily. The Verismo V Brewer was designed for family living, so vibrations are minimal. You'll never mistake your home for a chaotic coffeehouse due to the sounds of your machine. Also, clean up is a breeze, so your system can be easily maintained daily.
- The current price point is decent at around $160 for an advanced brewer of this quality.
Now for the cons:
- The Verismo only works with Starbucks capsules. So there's no way to add your favorite K-Cups or other brand pods.
- Those who aren't espresso fans may find there aren't as many flavor options yet. However, there are still plenty of options for Verismo Pods.
- Unless bought in bulk, the individual servings can get pretty expensive at an average of $1 per capsule.
- There's a learning curve which can only be loosely categorized as a con. Incorrectly loading the capsule can lead to hot water spraying your kitchen during the brewing process.
- The Verismo Milk Frother is not included. In fact, the addition is almost half as expensive as the entire machine at around $60.
Overall, there are far more positive than negative aspects to the most recent addition to the Verismo family brewers. The Verismo V Brewer can easily be classified as one of the best single serve coffee makers out there. That's no easy feat considering how saturated the market is. But then again, it's Starbucks so we can't be but so surprised. It's perfect for Starbucks junkies and allows a more convenient caffeine fix than standing in line for a half an hour. Plus, when Starbucks releases more flavor options, those who have the new system will be the first to enjoy the freedom of having their favorite fix right at home.
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