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The 17 Best Nespresso Pods in 2023 [Tried & Tested]

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Brandon Pierce
December 15, 2021

Are you looking for a quick and easy solution to your espresso itch? Why not try a Nespresso machine?

Of course, you can go to your dainty java shop or grind your beans at home. But if you want to save some money or you don't have time for learning how to use manual espresso equipment, a Nespresso machine is a no-brainer.

In this article, we'll go over the best Nespresso pods you should get for your Nespresso machine. Let's get to it. 

To begin, you'll need to know that there are two kinds of Nespresso machines, as well as two kinds of capsules for those machines. I promise you though, it's pretty straightforward if you know what machine you have or want to get.

With that in mind, we've tried them all and picked out some of the best Nespresso pods for any type of coffee fan.


The Best Nespresso Pods Overview

Before buying Nespresso Capsules, consider the attributes below before making your selection. I have sorted them in order of what I found most important when selecting these for this review.

  • VertuoLine or OriginalLine
  • Intensity
  • Tasting notes
  • Roast
  • Caffeine
  • Flavors

Below is a quick view of our top picks with links to our more in-depth experience with them. We tried many others, but they did not score at least a 4 out of 5 for us, so they were not included in this list.

Our Top Picks - OriginalLine

Nespresso Ispirazione Italiana Ristretto

OriginalLine

4 out of 5 star rating

Nespresso Cocoa Truffle 

OriginalLine

4 out of 5 star rating

Nespresso Ispirazione Palermo Kazaar

OriginalLine


Nespresso Ispirazione Arpeggio Firenzi

OriginalLine


Nespresso Volluto

OriginalLine


Nespresso Tokyo Vivalto Lungo

OriginalLine

4 out of 5 star rating

Nespresso Cape Town Envivo Lungo

OriginalLine

4 out of 5 star rating

Nespresso Roma Intenso

OriginalLine


Nespresso Master Origin Columbia

OriginalLine


Nespresso Ispirazione Italiana Napoli

OriginalLine



Our Top Picks - VertuoLine

Nespresso Double Espresso Scuro

VertuoLine


Nespresso Fortado Gran Lungo

VertuoLine

4 out of 5 star rating

Nespresso Iced Forte

VertuoLine


Nespresso Mexico

VertuoLine

4 out of 5 star rating

Nespresso Voltesso

VertuoLine


Nespresso Stormio

VertuoLine


Nespresso Intenso

VertuoLine


Product Name

Price

Availability

Store

Rating

Product 1

20$

1 Piece

Sore Name

Product 2

20$

1 Piece

Sore Name

Product 3

20$

1 Piece

Sore Name

Product 4

20$

1 Piece

Sore Name


Nespresso OriginalLine vs VertuoLine Capsules

Nespresso comes with two exceptional trademarks: OriginalLine and VertuoLine machines. If you want to know more, check out our guide on Nespresso VertuoLine vs Original Line.

When it comes to pods, OriginalLine brews espresso only while VertuoLine brews both espresso and coffee. 

Both machine capsules work differently. For instance, VertuoLine machines use capsule-scanning technology, which operates with Nespresso brand capsules.  In OriginalLine machines, capsule scanning does not take place. 

Personally, I prefer the OriginalLine machines because of their integration of 3rd-party brands. 

Nespresso’s Intensity

Nespresso defines intensity as a coffee's degree of roasting, body, bitterness and how concentrated it is. It has nothing to do with the amount of caffeine in the coffee. 

The intensity level of Nespresso ranges from 1 to 13. The majority types of Nespresso pods are found in the 4 to 10-intensity range. 

1-4: The flavor of coffee is delicate and light-bodied.

5-7: Coffee is flavorful and well-balanced.

8–10: Strong scents and a full-bodied flavor characterize this coffee.

Tasting Notes

Like wines, coffee beans have many professional descriptors that determine how a bean or blend will taste.

You may be familiar with Colombian coffees, which have a medium body and rich caramel sweetness and nuttiness. However, Brazilian coffees feature a peanutty flavor, a hint of cocoa, and a lingering finish.

All of those characteristics are still rather basic, but Ethiopian coffees can have distinctly floral flavors such as jasmine or nettles, and they are more reminiscent of teas. Ethiopian coffees are also often natural or unwashed and have a stronger strength that leaves their mark on the tongue.

Nespresso’s Roasts

Nespresso capsules are not all made with the same coffee roast; different pods use different roasting procedures. Light Roast, Medium Roast, and Dark Roast capsules are available from Nespresso, catering to wide strata of coffee consumers. 

Caffeine Content in Nespresso Pods

Caffeine levels in OriginalLines and VertuoLine pods are usually in the medium range, ranging from 60 to 90mg.

The amount of caffeine in the capsule is determined in part by the amount of coffee used in the preparation and the type of green coffee used in the capsule.

The Robusta origin has an average caffeine content of 2.4%, while Arabica sources have an average caffeine content of 1.2%. The caffeine content in decaf pods is less than 0.1%.

Nespresso Flavors

While the majority of the capsules on this list aren't flavored, Nespresso does offer flavored pods for both its OriginalLine and VertuoLine machines. The best Nespresso pods flavors include Chocolate Fudge, Coconut, Caramel, Hazelnut, Vanilla, and others for individuals who like something different.


Nespresso OriginalLine Capsules Overview

To make single-serve espresso, Nespresso OriginalLine machines only utilize OriginalLine capsules (shaped like a hat top). Depending on your machine, OriginalLine capsules can brew the following beverages:

  • 1.35oz espresso
  • 0.85oz ristretto
  • Lungo 3.7oz

Nespresso currently offers six distinct sorts of OriginalLine capsules, each designed for a unique espresso-drinking experience:

Type

Size

Attributes


Intenso

8-13 intensity

Ristretto Espresso Lungo

They are the boldest capsules Nespresso. Some of the capsules have Arabica (Arpeggio & Dhadkan), & some capsules have Robust and Arabica (Kazaar & Roma). I love Kazaar, which has a bold combination of Robustas from Brazil & Guatemala, and Arabica from South America.


Master Origin

3-13 intensity

Espresso Lungo

This highlights the ubiquitous origin of each region. It features Ethiopia, Columbia, India, etc. It varies from red berries to vegetal-grassy notes. My favorite is Columbia (intensity:6), and it has a washed processed Colombian Arabica with acidic and bursts of winey red fruit aromas.


Espresso

4-5 intensity

Espresso

These traditional capsules have low-end intensity. The best Nespresso espresso pods include Capriccio (intensity:5), Volluto (Intensity:4), Volluto Decaffeinato (intensity:4), and Cosi (intensity:4). My favorite one is Volluto which has a light fruit and sweet biscuit taste with a combo of Brazilian & Colombian Arabicas.


Lungo

4-10 intensity

Espresso Lungo

For an extended pleasure of espresso, go for the best Nespresso lungo pods like Envivo (Intensity: 10) or Vivalto (Intensity: 6). Lungo Nespresso brews more volume without watering-down flavor. My favorite is Envivo which has a dynamic duo of Indian Arabica and Robusta with a woodsy aroma and punchy bitterness.


Decaffeinato

4-6 intensity

Espresso Lungo

This beverage has the same attributes but without caffeine, such as Volluto, Frenzi Arpeggio, and Ristretto Italiano. My favorite is Frenzi Arpeggio (intensity:9) is a blend of decaffeinated Latin American Arabicas with dense, creamy, and cocoa notes


Milk Drinks

4-6 intensity

Ristretto, Espresso

These capsules withstand the addition of milk to your favorite specialty drinks. It includes Caramel, chocolate, coconut flavor over ice, Vanilla, Corto, Scuro, and much more. I personally love Cocoa Truffle (intensity:6) is a blend of Vibrant dark cocoa on a base of malted cereal.

Note: Any of these Nespresso pods taste great, but choose to your preferences


10 Best OriginalLine Nespresso Pods

Check out our best Original Nespresso pods:

1. Ispirazione Italiana Ristretto

Ristretto captures the essence of Italy's legendary coffee tradition in a single sip. It contains a 100% Arabica blend of South American and East African coffees with a dash of high-quality Robusta from South India added for flavor. 

Features

RoastMedium-dark roast
Intensity10/13
Caffeine Medium (75mg)
Type of coffeeRobusta + Arabica
UndertonesIntensely roasted, Berry

Pros

  • Offer the best intensity in a cappuccino. 
  • It tastes good whether hot or cold.

Cons

  • Not so smooth texture.
  • Make delicious ristretto and espresso only, not lungo.

In Cocoa Truffle, dark and bitter cocoa meets the malted cereal note and creates a deep flavor. It originates from the South American Arabicas, including sweet Bourbon beans from Brazil and washed Colombian beans.

Features

Roast Lightly roasted 
Intensity6/13
Caffeine 62mg
Type of CoffeeArabica + Robusta 
UndertonesCocoa flavor + Almond sweetness + Hint of vanilla

Pros

  • Taste great whether warm or chilled 
  • Best light roast Nespresso pods that offer a smooth and creamy texture

Cons

  • Expensive
  • For some users, the roasting is a bit high

Kazaar is high in caffeine (more than others); thus, it's ideal for those days when you need a lift. Drinks produced with milk, such as lattes and cappuccinos, bring out the rich flavor. It has a lingering smoky note.

Features

Roast Dark roast
Intensity12/13
Caffeine120mg (Very High)
Type of coffeeRobusta
UndertonesIntense, Spicy, Woody

Pros

  • Gives you a caffeine kick
  • Dark, buttery notes with no bright acidity

Cons

  • Not for mild drinkers as it’s bitter
  • Costly

The arpeggio is unquestionably a crowd favorite and gets the top slot because it is a clear winner for so many. It's rich and creamy but not too bitter, and it's ideal for preparing lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos, among other espresso drinks.

Features

RoastDark roast
Intensity9/13
Caffeine63mg
Type of coffeeArabica
UndertonesIntensely roasted, Creamy, Cocoa

Pros

  • Thick cream and aromatic.
  • Create recipes with /without milk.

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not compatible with VertuoLine.

Volluto counts among the best espresso pods for Nespresso. It has a pure Arabica from South America with sweet and biscuit flavors and a hint of acidity + fruity accent.

Features

RoastMild roast
Intensity4/13
Caffeine72mg
Type of coffeeArabica 
Undertonesfruity, biscuity, cereal

Pros

  • Tastes good with ice and warm milk.

Cons

  • A milder espresso may not like by intenso lovers.
  • Pods are hard to read

Tokyo Vivalto Lungo has a rich flavor with delicate floral and fruity undertones thanks to a blend of Ethiopian and washed Mexican Arabicas. A milder roast preserves the acidity and subtle floral notes of Ethiopian coffee beans. 

Features

RoastLighter roast
Intensity6/13
Caffeine82mg
Type of coffeeArabica
UndertonesFlowery, fruity, intense

Pros

  • Intense and creamier espresso
  • Not bitter

Cons

  • Expensive

In a cup, you'll find the soul of Cape Town. This Lungo has a genuinely robust, full-bodied taste with a woodsy scent and snappy bitterness cherished by local Capetonians thanks to a powerful pair of Indian Arabica and Robusta.

Features

RoastMedium-dark. roast
Intensity10/13
Caffeine70mg
Type of coffeeArabica + Robusta
UndertonesIntense, Roasted, Woody

Pros

  • Tastes good with or without milk.
  • Fully recyclable

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not compatible with VertuoLine

Iced drinks, like Iced Caramel Macchiato, are extremely popular with Roma. If you like Indonesia, you'll probably enjoy Roma because their flavor profiles are comparable. 

Features

RoastLight Roast
Intensity8/13
Caffeine63mg
Type of coffeeArabica + Robusta
UndertonesBalanced, Woody

Pros

  • Popular for making Iced macchiato.
  • Recyclable

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Some users dislike its smoky flavor as it makes it taste like burnt coffee.

Only high-grown, washed-process Colombian Arabica uses in this Nespresso coffee, resulting in a flavor with vibrant acidity and bursts of wine red fruit notes.

Features

RoastLight Roast
Intensity6/13
Caffeine72mg
Type of coffeeArabica 
UndertonesFruity, Vibrant, Berry

Pros

  • Perfect to make Americano.
  • Creamy

Cons

  • Not as smooth as its counterparts
  • Not everyone like the berry taste

10. Napoli

Many people adore Napoli, which has an intensity rating of 13 out of 13. It creates excellent lattes since the coffee flavor is retained even after adding milk. It's strong but not bitter, and it's delicious hot or iced.

Features

RoastDark Roast
Intensity13/13
Caffeine109 mg
Type of coffeeArabica + Robusta 
UndertonesIntensely roasted, Creamy, Cocoa

Pros

  • Intense without being bitter
  • Best for lattes

Cons

  • Not for everyone as it’s a bit too dark
  • Expensive

Nespresso VertuoLine Capsules Overview

Each capsule in a Nespresso VertuoLine machine is tagged and includes a different amount of beans ground at different coarseness and fineness levels.

You can't just buy any pod and brew espresso, coffee, or lungo - the pod or capsule must specifically state the type on the pod and will only allow that type to be brewed.

Type

Size

Attributes


Ristretto

0.85oz

a more concentrated espresso shot with a finer grind


Espresso

1.35oz

an intense shot


Lungo

3.7oz

brewed with 2x the water of an espresso


Gran Lungo

5oz

a Lungo combined with coffee, similar to Americano


Coffee

8oz

a standard brew


Alto XL

14oz

2x the caffeine of a standard coffee

Only VertuoLine capsules are used in Nespresso VertuoLine machines. The machine uses the barcode around the rim of VertuoLine capsules for two purposes:

  • Identify the capsule you're using and brew it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. 
  • Non-Nespresso capsules must be locked away.

VertuoLine applies centrifusion or fast capsule spinning. As a result, the crime in the beverage is thicker and foamier. I prefer the espresso Original Line machines, but everyone has their preferences.

Nespresso currently offers eight distinct sorts of VertuoLine capsules, each designed for a unique drinking experience:

Type

Size

Attributes


Espresso

4-11 intensity

1.35oz

In the VertuoLine espresso capsules range, there are just Central and South American blends. Instead of having a separate category for decaf capsules, the Decaffeinato Intenso is available. I love Voltesso (with intensity 4) because of its South American Arabica coffee beans. Its biscuity undertones and sweet scent are the best.


Double Espresso

6-8 intensity

2.7oz

These double espresso capsules double your happiness as well. These are purely Central and South American mixes. I love Scuro with intensity 8, as it is a Central American combination of Arabica and Robusta coffees with undertones of sweet chocolate and vanilla, with a smoky character.


Gran Lungo

4-8 intensity

5oz

Gran Lungo capsules have a mild-to-medium intensity that provides an extended espresso shot. Gran Lungo capsules incorporate African and Indonesian coffee. I love Fortado (intensity:8). Its Indian Robusta hits you full power, while the Colombian Arabicas offer cocoa and oak wood aromas.


Coffee

2-9 intensity

7.8oz

For a longer experience than Gran Lungo, try the best Nespresso coffee pods that include, Stormio boost, Odacio, Solelio, and more. I love Stormio (intensity:8), which is a well-roasted Nicaragua and Guatemala Arabica coffee that provides a variety of spicy woody and cereal notes.


Alto XL

4-7 intensity

14oz

If coffee isn’t adequate for you, then go for Alto Xl capsules. I love intenso (intensity:9) because of its dark roast with a lingering aftertaste that includes hints of brown sugar and highly toasted attributes.


Master Craft Single Origin

5-7 intensity

7.8oz

These capsules withstand the addition of milk to your favorite specialty drinks. It includes Caramel, chocolate, coconut flavor over ice, Vanilla, Corto, Scuro, and much more. I personally love Cocoa Truffle (intensity:6) is a blend of Vibrant dark cocoa on a base of malted cereal.


Crafted for Milk


2.7oz,
7.8oz

These capsules cut through the thick milkiness of specialized beverages. I love iced forte (intensity:6) because of its refreshing and strong taste. South American Arabica combined with Indonesian Arabicas provides a powerful scent.


Nespresso Exclusives

5-8 intensity

1.35oz, 5oz,
7.8oz

These Nespresso Exclusives are only available for a limited time. I love Aged Sumatra (intensity: 5) as it is the only cinnamon-flavored capsule with low acidity and light in the body. It's one of the best-flavored Nespresso pods


7 Best Nespresso Vertuoline Capsules

1. Scuro

Double Espresso Scuro is a darkly roasted combination of Robusta and Arabica beans from Central America. Its dark, smokey flavor enhances by cocoa and vanilla undertones.

Features

RoastHigh roasted
Intensity8/13
Caffeine55 – 65mg
Type of coffeeRobusta + Arabica
UndertonesIntense, Cocoa, Vanilla

Related Guide: 16 Best Nespresso pods for Latte [+How to make the best Latte]

Pros

  • Brew espresso to Alto.
  • Offers pour-over iced lattes

Cons

  • Not compatible with Original Line machines
  • Not suitable for mild/lighter intensity lovers.

This Nespresso coffee has a bitter cocoa powder taste and oak wood overtones that contribute to the coffee's richness, thanks to a blend of Indian Robusta and South and Central American Arabicas.

Features

RoastHigh roasted
Intensity8/13
Caffeine200mg
Type of coffeeRobusta + Arabica
UndertonesRoasted, Woody

Pros

  • Its taste is strong and tasty both with and without milk.
  • Recyclable.

Cons

  • Some users find its flavor a little harsh.
  • Expensive.

Ice Forte by Barista Creations has South American Arabicas that combine with Indonesian Arabica to create a powerful fragrant experience. Cereal, woody, and peppery aromas weave their way through the cup for a full-bodied iced coffee experience.

Features

RoastHigh roasted
Intensity6/13
Caffeine170 – 200mg
Type of coffeeArabica
UndertonesDry cereal, woody & peppery

Pros

  •  Strong but not intense.
  • Among the best cheap Nespresso pods.

Cons

  • A bit light, therefore not for dark rost lovers.

When you learn that Master Origins Mexico is twice-washed, you will do a double-take. In a double wash, all of the intensity of Robusta purifies, leaving you with spicy flavors and a rich, thick body.

Features

RoastHigh roasted
Intensity7/13
Caffeine170–200mg
Type of coffeeRobusta
UndertonesWoody & Earthy

Pros

  • Love the boldness & smoothness.
  • Extremely well balanced.

Cons

  • Pricey

Voltesso is a South American Arabica bean and is softly roasted and balanced, revealing biscuity overtones and a characteristic sweet scent. To make a beautifully smooth Espresso, blend it with milk.

Features

RoastLight roasted
Intensity4/13
Caffeine85mg
Type of coffeeArabica
UndertonesBiscuit 

Pros

  • Blend with milk for a delicious new take.
  • No milk and allergen component

Cons

  • Some users might find it a bit costly

The fragrances of this Nespresso coffee come from highly roasted Nicaragua and Guatemala Arabica coffee, which conjure spicy woody and cereal undertones. 

Features

RoastDark roasted
Intensity8/13
Caffeine165 mg
Type of coffeeArabica
UndertonesSpicy, woody, cereal

Pros

  • Provide you with a 7.8 oz coffee serve, ideal for a longer sipping experience.
  • Recyclable

Cons

  • Not brew 14oz cup

This dark-roasted Nespresso coffee is unusually thick and deep, with a lingering aftertaste that includes hints of brown sugar and highly toasted characteristics. It is a mix of Guatemalan Robusta and Mexican and Latin American Arabicas that enhance their brown sugar and bitter notes.

Features

RoastDark roasted
Intensity9/13
Caffeine165 mg
Type of coffeeArabica + Robusta 
UndertonesBrown sugar, Intense

Pros

  • Rich in cream.

Cons

  • Taste best with milk only

Best Nespresso Compatible Third-Party Capsules for Original Line Machines

Nespresso Original Line models are compatible with Original Line Nespresso capsules and not the VertuoLine. I some of the best non-Nespresso compatible capsules for Original Line machines.

In terms of quality, price, and reliability, I chose variety packs from these six brands. 

L'OR Variety Pack

L'OR Variety Pack


Meseta Bulk Pack

Cafe La Llava Bulk Pack


Lavazza Variety Pack

Peet's Variety Pack

For more information about buying Nespresso OriginalLine Pods, read our guide on where to buy Nespresso Pods


FAQs

Can Nespresso machines accommodate reusable capsules?

Nespresso capsules are not reusable. However, refilling is possible. Some individuals re-run their pods to recycle them. Some people recycle their pods by running them again. For all Nespresso machines, there are safe to use reusable pods made of steel or plastic.

Can Nespresso capsules be recycled?

Yes, Nespresso Aluminum capsules ensure 100% recyclability. You don’t need to do it yourself because of its recycling program. Simply get free recycling bags, and after emptying the capsules, either ship them back to Nespresso recycling facilities or drop them off at a local Nespresso boutique.

Do Nespresso capsules expire?

Technically they don’t, but it simply loses their aroma, optimal freshness, and flavor. Nespresso guarantees the capsules' freshness for a minimum of 4 months from the date of purchase.

What does capsule intensity mean? 

Nespresso defines intensity as a coffee's degree of roasting, body, and bitterness. In addition, the coffee's concentration contributes to the intensity. The amount of caffeine in the coffee has nothing to do with it.

How are Starbucks pods different from other companies’ pods?

Unlike pods from other brands such as Peet's Coffee, Starbucks worked with Nespresso to manufacture the Starbucks pods. This means that you can recycle Starbucks capsules into Nespresso bags. This recycling part can not happen with the Peet coffee as it isn't a partner of Nespresso.


FINAL THOUGHTS

The ideal Nespresso pod or capsule depends entirely on your needs at the time. If you're feeling brave, try Giornio and see how you react to the coffee + floral notes.

Melozia from the VertuoLine conjures up images of delicious coffee, and it's my personal favorite. Range packs can help you try a variety of new coffees. 

Further, if you want to get more info regarding the best capsules to brew iced coffee (apart from the above-mentioned capsules), check out our guide on best Nespresso Pods for Iced Coffee

But it'll all be worth it when you find the right flavor according to your taste buds.


Brandon Pierce

About the author

My name is Brandon and I love cold-brew coffee. If you're a fan of everything homebrew, then we'll get along just fine. I also enjoy riding my Onewheel around town, and going on adventures with my future wife! As an online work-from-home advocate, it's important that I stay connected to the world while being able to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

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