Best Nespresso Capsules

by Editorial Staff | Updated on August 8th, 2022

What is the best Nespresso capsule? Soon after purchasing a Nespresso machine, this question will likely give you sleepless nights. It may also bother you when contemplating buying a new Nespresso brewer.

Table Of Contents

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The Nespresso jargon
- Original Line
- VertuoLine
Best Nespresso capsules
Why capsule coffee
Disadvantages of capsule coffee
How long does a Nespresso capsule last?
Conclusion

We have made it easier to pick the best coffee capsules for your unit by reviewing some of the best on the market. But first, let’s go through a few things.

The Nespresso jargon

Nespresso rates all of their coffees on a scale from 1 – 13. Thirteen (13) is on the top of the scale and is the strongest of the strong. Beans rated one on the other end will cradle your senses gently as you drink your way through the milder brew.

Each Nespresso line has its set of capsule types. Here is a quick breakdown:

Original Line

Intenso: these capsules are made for espresso and ristretto. They lean towards the intense side.
Decaffeinato: this is simply coffee without caffeine. They span from 4 – 10 on the taste scale.
Espresso: hovering about an average of 6, these capsules make espresso shots—however, they clock in with less intensity than the Intenso category.
Lungo: this refers to the type of coffee produced, in this case, lungo. These coffee capsules run the gamut from 4 – 9 in intensity.
Pure Origin: this category denotes where the beans were sourced from — in this case, they are all from a single location for a pure, uninterrupted single taste.
Variations: these flavored shots all clock in at a standard 6.

VertuoLine

Alto XL: these capsules make 14 oz. cups of coffee, enough on a lazy Monday morning. There is no definite intensity.
Limited Edition: These capsules always change depending on what is being harvested. So this label denotes the grounds in the pods.
Coffee: these capsules make just under 8 ounces of coffee.
Pure Origin: as mentioned earlier, this category refers to where the beans were sourced. In this case, they are all from a single location for a pure, uninterrupted single taste.
Espresso: these capsules give you that sought-after shot of caffeine. They clock in at 1.35 oz.
Gran Lungo: conversationally, an Americano. These coffee capsules make 5 oz.

With that in mind, let’s have a look at four popular Nespresso capsules that leave coffee lovers happier with every sip. Shall we!

OriginalLine, Ristretto Intenso, Dark Roast Coffee

Clocking in at 10, the beans for this capsule are slowly roasted to bring out this blend’s flavor – a great combination of Brazil and Colombia Arabicas along with eastern Africa.

It is the kind of half-shot that can leave your taste buds thankful. Chocolatey, citrusy, intense, and fruity are the flavors your tongue will be debating over which to highlight first.

Why people prefer it:

Brilliantly fast shipping at a reasonable price
A balanced, smooth flavor that’s on the bold side
Makes exceptional espressos

Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Livanto, Medium Roast Espresso Coffee

Clocking in at 6, you will find livanto very satisfying if you appreciate well-balanced things like diets and checkbooks. It is caramelized and malty, balancing fruity and roast delicately. It is a medium roast with roots in Central and South America. These capsules are ideal for making espressos.

Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Arpeggio Intenso, Dark Roast Coffe

With an intensity of 9, these capsules are long roasted with a very fine grind. The beans are sourced from central and south America, making it intense.

The capsule can yield a 1.35-ounce espresso or an 0.8 ristretto. You will mainly taste woody and cocoa hints.

Why people prefer it:

Makes an admirable crema
Amazingly bold and balanced flavor
Fast shipping and excellent price

Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Volluto, Mild Roast Espresso Coffee

Are you looking for a light roast for your Nespresso original line system? You won’t go wrong with this one. Coming at the intensity level 4, each capsule produces 1.35 oz. Espresso shot, you will truly love the Volluto. It is a blend of Colombian and Brazilian Arabica.

It is sweet and fruity with notes of cereal and bread. When you place your order, you will receive the usual elegant Nespresso packaging with 5 sets of 10 capsules at a pocket-friendly price.

Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Fortissio Lungo, Dark Roast Coffee

These capsules are made from an elegant, well-balanced blend of central and south American Arabica. A little Robusta is added, which gives the prepared brew some character. Beans are roasted until cracked to enhance the bitterness and intensity of the product. You will taste woody notes plus a characteristic bouquet of cereals. A single capsule yields 3.7 oz, enough to quench your craving.

Why people prefer it:

Awesome quality and shipping
An exceptionally bold but consciously smooth brew
Good in a variety of pulls (ristretto through American)

Why capsule coffee

Here are some benefits of capsule-type coffee:

Rich aroma

The tightness of the capsules helps preserve the aroma so that even if you use the capsule after a year, the aroma will still be the same.

Great taste

When properly sealed (most brands are normally well sealed), the properties of capsular coffee remain intact, resulting in great-tasting coffee than a conventional can.

Exact dosage

Each capsule is designed for the right amount of water. For example, if it is espresso, the package normally contains 0.3oz of raw materials – enough for an espresso cup. Precisely, coffee capsules address inconsistency when brewing coffee the conventional way.

Brewing speed

It takes roughly 30 – 40 seconds for the capsule coffee maker to brew coffee. That is fast compared to the time it takes to brew coffee the ordinary way. This is very beneficial when in a hurry and craving a hot coffee.

Not to mention that most capsule machines are easy to use and don’t need to be washed, with some removing the used capsules on their own.

Disadvantages of capsule coffee

Obliged to capsules by the same brand

Most capsules are only compatible with brewers made by the same brand. This will surely oblige you to use devices and capsules made by the same brand. Nespresso brand capsule coffee from Nestle is compatible with KitchenAid, Delonghi, and Krups brewers. Additionally, Nescafe Dolce Gusto brand capsules are designed for Krups coffee machines.

Coffee capsules are pricier than beans.

For example, for 3.5oz of this product, you will pay twice as much for bags of grinds. Not to mention you may also pay for the unique packaging and for the convenience of preparing the drink.

Availability

Capsule coffee is not sold on every corner – you will need to prepare in advance about restocking.

How long does a Nespresso capsule last?

When properly sealed and portioned, capsuled coffee can be stored for up to two years. Capsules made from aluminum or food-grade polymer are highly recommended as they keep the content of the capsule airtight and prevent them from going bad.

Conclusion

If you pick the right one, you won’t go wrong with coffee capsules. They are unique in their way, and experimenting with different brands is one sure way of finding one that works for you. Which capsules among the five would you like to give a shot and why? Let us know in the comments!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.

Editorial Staff

The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.