What Coffee Pods Are Compatible With Nespresso Machines
The single serve coffee maker market in North America is all but dominated by Keurig. Over the years, Nespresso Vertuoline and original machines have been gaining shares but still account for less than 10% of annual machine sales.
In Europe, itâs a different story. In 2018, I made a trip across Western Europe staying in Airbnbâs and ALL of them had Nespresso machines. Maybe itâs because theyâre manufactured in Switzerland, elicit continental pride or are the standard part of European culture, but they have an excellent foothold in Europe in general.
The contrast is strange because anyone who has owned both knows that Espresso machines are known for having better performance, ease of cleaning, and overall quality/reliability. So, why the market difference?
In North America, it all very simply comes down to coffee choice. The trouble with Nespresso is finding pods for them. You see, Nestlé is the parent company that owns Nespresso and until recently, they had very strict patents protecting the design of their coffee pods which made it very difficult for competing coffee companies to offer their coffee in Nespresso-compatible pods. This ensured that not only were Nespresso customers purchasing their machines, they were also agreeing to the long-term commitment of purchasing more Nespresso product . But. . . as youâll see in this article, change is aâ brewinâ.
This all leads us to the question: What Coffee Pods Are Compatible with Nespresso Machines
Vertuo Pods For Regular Lattes
1. ALTISSIMO
Altissimo pods are an excellent choice for those who prefer a latte with a robust espresso flavor. Altissimo offers a thick crema with cereal flavor notes and has a 9 out of 13 intensity level. It produces a creamy and full-bodied espresso.
2. DIAVOLITTO
Diavolitto pods produce a strongly caffeinated latte. It has 150 mg of caffeine per pod, which is more than other espresso lines in the Vertuo range it is, hands down, the most powerful Vertuo espresso pod.
It has a creamy and smooth texture with earthy notes. Diavolitto has an 11 out of 13 intensity level.
Nespresso Vertuo Leaking Coffee Or Water
Nothing can be more frustrating than trying to make a quick cup of coffee before you head out the door to go to work, but your Nespresso Vertuo leaks coffee or water all over the counter. Surprisingly, this could be a very easy fix and could be as simple as readjusting the reservoir because if the tank is even slightly out of place, it could result in the leaking of water.
If readjusting the water reservoir doesnt fix your problem and you continue to experience leaks, then you should check your empty capsule containers. Sometimes a small amount of leftover water from these containers can accumulate and result in leaking water.
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Nespresso Vertuo Vs Originalline: Differences In Cost & Features
As mentioned earlier, these two models offer similar functionality, so what determines which one you should buy depends entirely upon personal preference.
However, we would recommend that you consider the factors before choosing model:
Price The price differences in variety between the two ranges starts off as small, but quickly adds up over time.
For example, the cheapest coffee machine version of each range costs around £100 less than the next cheaper model.
If you plan to use them regularly, then this could add up to hundreds of pounds within a few years.
So, how do you decide which model to purchase? Well, firstly, think about how often youll need to make different types of beverages.
Do you prefer stronger coffee or light cappuccinos? Do you want to enjoy a latte macchiato or a mocha frappe?
Then, take note of the biggest differences in pricing.
Weve already highlighted the fact that the more expensive models tend to include extra features such as larger water tanks and better quality components.
But, remember that all machines come with their own set of pros and cons.
So, weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each type carefully before deciding which one suits you best.
How To Make Iced Coffee With The Nespresso Vertuo
- Turn on the Nespresso Vertuo by pressing the power button
- Insert your Nespresso pod
- Close and lock the lid
- Place a cup under the spout and press the power button
- Add milk/creamer to the Max Line of your Aeroccino. Press and hold the power button until it turns blue.
- Pour the frothed milk into your shot of espresso to cool it down
- Add your milk and espresso mixture to a large cup filled with ice
- Add a reusable straw and ENJOY!
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Amazon Brand Solimo Ristretto Coffee Capsules
You might be skeptical seeing that Amazon sell their own coffee under the Solimo brand name, but dont knock these Amazon brand capsules until you try them. While we can be a little snobbish about coffee sometimes, Amazon proved they know what theyre doing, so they at least deserve a chance.
This dark roast coffee contains a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans. They lean heavily towards Arabica, so you dont need to worry about a bitter-tasting espresso shot.
Apart from Ristretto, the capsules are also available in other flavors like Lungo and Espresso. In this pack, you will get 50 capsules, and it is compatible with Nespresso OriginalLine models. The flavors are very strong and rich.
As per the official site, the coffee beans are grown by UTZ-certified farmers, and they have followed better agricultural practices. The beans are roasted as well as packaged in Belgium by expert roasters. If youre concerned about the environment, youll be happy to know Amazon partnered with the Rainforest Alliance too.
How To Make Iced Coffee With Nespresso A Brief Guide
Sometimes hot coffee just doesnt feel right on a hot summer day.
The answer is iced coffee!
If you follow this article, youll get a phenomenal iced coffee out of your Nespresso machine.
Ill explain exactly how to make iced coffee with Nespresso.
And Ill even throw in some variations you can try.
Lets get to it.
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How To Use The Nespresso Barista To Make Iced Coffee
My personal favourite way to make iced coffee is with the Nespresso Barista. You can make lots of recipes in this machine, from hot coffee to an iced frappuccino but its the Iced Nitro that I particularly like.
As with the original Nespresso iced coffee above, start by taking three ice cubes and dropping them into the Baristas jug. Brew a shot of espresso over the top.
Nespresso says you can add sugar if you want it sweeter, but I prefer using a flavoured syrup to taste although I wouldnt use one with a flavoured Nespresso capsule. Then, top up the water to the maximum level marking.
Select the Iced Nitro option, hit the button and the Barista blends your drink, syrup or sugar, water and ice cubes into a fine drink that you can pour out into a tumbler. Youll get a thicker, fuller head to your drink that gives your coffee a smoother and more intense flavour.
What Pods Are Compatible With Vertuo Next
- IMPOSSIBLY GOOD QUALITY: Exclusively compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, featuring over 30 blends and producing velvety crema indicative of only the highest quality.
- A RANGE OF OPTIONS: Vertuo Next makes both coffee and espresso in a variety of sizes: 5, 8, and 18oz coffees, and single and double espresso.
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Which Pods Are Compatible With The Nespresso Breville Vertuo
Your new Nespresso Breville Vertuo is compatible with many brands of coffee pods. The blue pods are the ones that you should buy. The other brands you should try include Caffitaly, Vittoria, LOR, and Caffiatro. They are all 45mm in length and 25mm high and are compatible with the Vertuo.
The Nespresso Vertuo line uses the original and Pro Line pods. The Vertuo and Pro machines require new machines, while the original Nespresso machines can be used with the original ones. These machines are compatible with all of the popular pods, though there are some differences. You will find that the Vertuo and ProLine are compatible with the same brands.
Are There Different Nespresso Capsules
Nespresso have initially released 16 different types of coffee capsule to use with their home coffee machines. ⦠They are generally a âshorterâ coffee, and can come in a variety of strengths. There are six different Espresso capsules in the Nespresso collection. These typically contain âblendsâ of coffee origin.
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The Only Nespresso You Should Avoid Buying: Vertuo Next
If you are looking for a Nespresso machine that can make both coffee and espresso, I would strongly advise you against buying the Vertuo Next. Even if it seems like a great deal, I would warn you against buying it. Many people assume that the Next must be the best Vertuo coffee maker since it is the newest model. They would be very wrong.
While the Vertuo Next has some unique features such as bluetooth and pour over coffee pods, it also has serious flaws. These mostly stem from engineering issues. There have been a couple design changes since the Next launched. However, these changes havent improved reliability. Next owners still have more issues than any other Vertuo model. There are rumors that the company may have discontinued the Next as of March 2022 given all of these troubles. These issues include:
- An array of light-based error alerts including orange and red lights, yellow light, white light and even a blue or purple light.
How To Make Starbucks Double Espresso
Two express shots in a single capsule are referred to as double espresso. It has an intense aroma and flavor. If you are fond of Italian- style espresso, double espresso will satisfy your cravings very well. If you want to brew Starbucks double espresso, choose any two Starbucks espresso capsules, such as espresso roast and Starbucks blonde espresso roast, and brew them at once. Your Starbucks double espresso will be ready in no time.
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Is Nespresso Vertuoline Worth It
We think so! The price tag on the VertuoLine is quite high compared to its competitors but we believe that it offers great value for money.
Not only does it offer excellent performance, but also comes with all sorts of useful extras including a travel mug, cleaning brush, tamper and more.
If you do not want to bother with grinding beans, Nespresso VertuoLine is a great alternative.
VertuoLine original coffee machine lines make use of innovative technology to create a high-quality coffee flavor.
Every coffee lovers and coffee purist thinks their crema layer is the best, and the VertuoLine from Nespresso is certainly well regarded.
The distinctive coffee capsule and separate water system ensures a perfect extraction every time, and the Nespresso is backed up by a large selection of tasty blends, all packaged in their Signature Line of leader in coffee machines.
Whats The Difference Between Original And Vertuo Pods
The original machine offers variability of brands and flavors for pod use, while the Vertuo is proprietary but offers different size pods for your drinking pleasure. This is something you can achieve with the original Nespresso pods by simply using more original pods to make a larger cup of hot dark caffeine.
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Can You Use Third
The VertuoLine is a proprietary design and is protected by laws regarding patents. This means that, unlike Nespresso Pods, third party manufacturers are not legally permitted to design similar style of pods, meaning it is not possible for third-party pods to be used in a Nespresso VertuoLine machine. This, of course, may change in the future if Nespresso permits or issues a licence to do so.
Save Money On Nespresso Pods
Even though some of these options give you some good deals, being a Nespresso user isnt a cheap habit. With an average pod costing around $0.90, Nespresso pods can leave a big dent in your bank account.
However, there are some great ways to save money while still being able to enjoy great coffee. One of the main ways you can do this is by subscribing to Nespresso.coms mailing list. This list will keep you up to date on all the great discounts and offers. Also, if youre an OriginalLine user, then you have a lot of cheaper alternatives like Targets own coffee brand: Good & Gather. Good & Gather pods are around $5.99, which is significantly less than the average Nespresso sleeve price of $11.
Another option could also be to start reusing capsules. It might not be as intense of a brew as it was the first time, but itll still make for a decent and, more importantly, an economical cup.
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Sweetest Nespresso Vertuo Pods Our Top 5 Picks
Contents
To be clear, there are no Nespresso Vertuo pod that contain sugar. Sugar is something that you can add by choice. Coffee, however, has a certain sugar content which is released by the roasting process.
The following Nespresso Vertuo Pods are what I found to be the sweetest tasting without adding sugar or any artificial sweetener.
Starbucks Fairtrade Espresso Roast Capsule
Starbucks® signature espresso roast comes home with you in a capsule that can be described as their baseline offering as they venture into coffee capsules and coffee pods.
The Fairtrade Espresso Roast capsule is a rich blend with a hint of caramel, which is the same house roast that Starbucks® use in their coffee as standard. To quote Starbucks®, a recipe for caramelly sweetness so right its never been changed.
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How To Make An Iced Coffee With A Nespresso Machine
Making an iced coffee with your Nespresso Machine is a simple process that can be done in six easy steps. Essentially, it involves choosing a Gourmesso coffee capsule, brewing your espresso, frothing the milk, combining the milk with your iced coffee and finally sprinkling it with cinnamon, nutmeg or chocolate shavings to finish according to your taste.
To explain you how to make a delicious iced coffee we are going to base our recipe on a simple one loved by many – The Milk and Spice Iced Coffee.
Ingredients
- Choose a Gourmesso coffee capsule to brew 3 oz of espresso
- 4-5 oz cold milk
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, or chocolate shavings according to taste
You Will Need
- Aeroccino milk frother or your Nespresso machine’s steam nozzle, or the Lattissima Plus machine
Preparation
- First, choose a Gourmesso coffee capsule and insert into your Nespresso machine
- Press the espresso button on your Nespresso machines to pull your espresso or Lungo shot into a cup and add sugar if desired
- Pour the prepared espresso into a tall glass filled with the crushed ice/ice cubes
- Prepare 4-5 oz of cold milk froth using the steam nozzle of your Nespresso machine or the Aeroccino milk frother
- Once the blue light is gone, pour the chilled milk to the iced coffee and top it with a few spoonful’s of froth
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg or chocolate shavings to finish
- Its ready! You can now enjoy your personalized iced coffee
What Nespresso Compatible Blend Is The Best For Making An Iced Coffee?
Key Difference You Need To Know Between Nespresso Original Vs Vertuo Lines
One of the first things you might notice as you are researching which Nespresso machines are best for you is that there are two different types. There is the Original line and the newer range of Vertuo models. The most important factor when deciding between a Nespresso Vertuoline vs Original model is the type of coffee you like drink.
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Blends Are More Common Than Single Origin
Though single-origin Nespresso compatible pods exist, they are rare when compared with blends. This isnt just a feature of Nespresso machines in general, espresso is more often made with blends than single origins.
Some people fear blends because, in the past, roasters used them to save money and mask sub-par beans. But that is no longer the case:
Personally, I often find that Im able to get a better balance and more depth of flavours in espresso when blending
Now blends are carefully crafted for the most balanced flavor profile and greater consistency . In recent years, third-wave coffee has seen the rise of single origins, mostly light roasts with bright acidity and complex character. However, the same traits that make them attractive as brewed coffees can be a bit overpowering in an espresso.
If youre in the market for a Nespresso machine, youll need to choose between the Vertuo and Original capsule or pod coffee systems before you decide what machine you buy.
Back in 2017, Nespresso launched its Vertuo range of coffee machines in the UK. These use a completely different type and size of coffee pod to previous Nespresso machines, meaning you cant use standard Nespresso pods, or the third-party varieties now found in most supermarkets, in the Vertuo models.
Here we explain the pros and cons of each system, and what type of coffee drinker they suit, to help you choose between them.
Questions You May Have
Does a high intensity score means theres a lot of caffeine?
No, while it is possible that a higher intensity coffee also has more caffeine, a higher intensity score just means its more roasty, fuller bodied, and more bitter.
How much caffeine is in a cup of Vertuo pod coffee?
According to Nespresso, all coffee capsules, which are usually mug-sized , have 130-200 mg per cup and caffeinated Gran Lungo pods have between 120-200 mg of caffeine. The espressos are the same for Original as Vertuo, around 60-100 mg, while Double Espressos are under 200 mg per capsule. Decaffeinated Vertuo pods have 12 mg or less of caffeine.
What is the difference between Original and Vertuo pods?
First, the pods are shaped differently and are not interchangeable. Original machines only make espresso while Vertuo machines make espresso and brewed coffee. Vertuo is for those who like espresso and drip-style coffees.
Are Starbucks pods made by Nespresso?
Starbucks pods are made by Nespresso. Because they are made by Nespresso, using them will not void the warranty on your Vertuo machine, unlike third-party pods.
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