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Nespresso Vs Keurig (Pacifying Your Passion for Pods)

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Scott

October 10, 2023

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Nespresso and Keurig both make single-serve coffee makers that work using specialized coffee pods. Although they are similar in ease of use, they differ a lot in their mechanism of action and the kind of coffee they brew.

If you’ve ever wondered what these differences are, how these machines work to brew coffee, and which is the best choice for your home then you’re in luck! Here we have the five best Nespresso and five best Keurig coffee makers reviewed so you can quickly see which one suits you best.

I’ve included a direct comparison of these two brands in a handy buyers guide as well as some common F.A.Q.s to help answer any questions you may have. Now it’s time to dive in and discover what makes Nespresso coffee makers so special.

The Five Best Nespresso Machines

• 1. Top Choice – Nespresso VertuoPlus
• 2. Runner Up – Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine
• 3. Best for Small Spaces – Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine
• 4. Budget Option – Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker
• 5. Most Versatile – Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker

1. Top Choice – Nespresso VertuoPlus

The VertuoPlus bundle by Nespresso is our top pick for a few great reasons. The first is the sheer versatility of this machine with three drink size options ranging from espresso all the way up to a large, 14 Oz mug of coffee. The inclusion of the Aeroccino milk frother also allows you to make lattes, cappuccinos, and any other specialty coffee you enjoy best.

This option is from the Nespresso Vertuoline of machines which means it uses centrifusion to brew coffee. These machines automatically read the barcode on the capsule and adjust brewing parameters to suit. It spins the capsule and brews a rich and aromatic cup of coffee with a very thick crema on top.

The water tank has the option of adjusting the position so the coffee machine can fit into any space in your home. It automatically opens to accept your chosen capsule and ejects it into an internal capsule storage container.

This bundle comes with a selection box of 30 capsules so you can start brewing straight away.

2. Runner Up – Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine by Breville

The choice for runner-up, the Nespresso Pixie is a more compact option that can brew espresso or a slightly larger cafe lungo. It is an original line machine so uses a high-pressure system (19 bars), alongside hot water to brew the coffee. It heats up in as little as 25 seconds so you won’t need to wait around for your coffee.

The used capsule container can hold up to 11 capsules and the water tank holds enough to brew up to five large cups of coffee so this is a low-maintenance coffee brewer. There’s a handy warning light that tells you when the water reservoir is running low so you won’t end up running it dry.

This is a reasonably priced machine that brews tasty espresso or americano style coffee. The downside is you need to purchase the Aeroccino as well if you want lattes. It doesn’t make very large servings of coffee so isn’t ideal if that’s what you’re after.

3. Best for Small Spaces – Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine

If you struggle for counter space but still want the luxury of an at-home, barista set-up then the Essenza mini is a good option. It’s Nespresso’s most compact option yet and it comes in three color options which are black, red, and lime.

The water tank is removable for easy cleaning and refilling and holds a reasonable 20.3 Oz so can brew plenty of espressos before it needs to be refilled. As always, there’s the option to add on the Aeroccino for specialty coffee lovers.

It heats up in less than 30 seconds and has an energy-saving auto-off feature that kicks in after 9 minutes of inactivity. Alongside this, it switches to low power mode after 3 minutes so if you forget to switch it off it won’t end up using loads of power.

4. Budget Option – Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker

One of the more affordable options by Nespresso is the Vertuo-Next. Despite the reasonable price tag and slimline design, this option is not lacking when it comes to functionality. It can brew anything from a single shot of espresso up to a huge 18 Oz of pour-over coffee.

The machine is made of partially recycled materials and it even has Bluetooth connectivity so you can use your smartphone to communicate with it. It’s from the Vertuoline of machines so it works on one-touch brewing.

At only 5 inches wide it is very slim and lightweight but has a sizable water tank at 37 oz. The drip tray is fully adjustable so you can set it to the perfect height to hold your favorite mug without the coffee splashing everywhere as it pours.

5. Most Versatile – Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker

The Nespresso Inissia is a compact option with a neat design but is also surprisingly versatile when it comes to the coffee you can brew using it. Using original line capsules it can brew the standard espresso or cafe lungo and these can be enjoyed hot or served over ice for a cooling treat.

This bundle includes the Aeroccino so you can make all your coffee shop favorites. The drip tray folds away to accommodate various-sized coffee cups so there’s no kind of coffee that’s off limits.

With a 9-minute, auto-off feature, it won’t burn out if you forget about it whilst sipping on your freshly brewed coffee. It comes with a welcome pack containing 16 capsules so there’s another great reason to give this option a try.

Nespresso Vs Keurig – Single Serve Coffee Machines

The Brand

Nespresso

Nespresso is an operating unit of the brand Nestle based in Switzerland, Europe. They also manufacture common brand machines like Krups, Breville, and De’Longhi. Nespresso creates high-quality, premium-priced pod machines designed for optimum aroma and flavor.

Keurig

Keurig coffee makers are made by the American brand Keurig Dr. Pepper. They are the leading beverage company in North America and are the first company to bring hot and cold drinks together on a large scale. They design affordable, user-friendly coffee makers that take all the guesswork out of brewing coffee.

The Brew Method

Nespresso

Nespresso machines brew coffee using one of two methods depending on which line of coffee makers they come from. The original line machines use smaller, cone-shaped pods and they brew coffee by creating an extremely high-pressure environment. The machine uses the metal capsule to generate up to 19 bars of pressure, way more than is used traditionally to brew espresso. You need to manually add the capsule to the machine and press a button to select your cup size. The machine does the rest of the work for you.

The newer, Vertuoline machines use dome-shaped capsules with a barcode printed around the rim. These machines use the barcode to adjust all brewing parameters automatically so all you need to do is add the capsule and press brew. Once the capsule is inserted the machine spins it very fast to extract the coffee flavors and aroma as well as acting to create an ultra-thick crema on top.

Keurig

The Keurig pod coffee makers use a sort of hybrid brewing process to make coffee. A needle pierces one size of the capsule to let water in and a second needle pierces the other side to let the brewed coffee flow into your coffee cup. There’s a small amount of pressure created from this brew method but not enough to make coffee that’s as rich as an espresso. Keurig machines generally brew either regular coffee or a small volume of concentrated coffee.

Nespresso Capsules vs K-Cup Pods

Keurig

Keurig K-cup pods come in hundreds of varieties. So many coffee brands such as Starbucks, Green Mountain, and Dunkin Donuts all have their own range of pods containing their specialty ground coffee. Alongside this, there are many options for brewing tea or even hot chocolate if you select the appropriate pod. Keurig machines are also compatible with reusable pods that you can use with any pre-ground coffee you like best.

Nespresso

Nespresso capsules have far fewer coffee pod varieties compared to Keurig and their machines are often incompatible with different brands of pods. They have a range of coffee flavors as well as decaf and over-ice varieties. Nespresso capsules are much more costly compared to Keurig K-cup coffee pods.

Environmental Impact

Keurig

As well as being compatible with reusable coffee pods, Keurig has recently advanced the design of their K-cup pods to make them recyclable. Since the end of 2020, all new capsules manufactured have been made with recyclable materials (#5 plastic) so they can go in curbside recycling. Moving on from this, in November 2021 Keurig has also added an easy-peel lid that can be removed to allow the coffee grounds to be added to the compost. The lid, unfortunately, is not recyclable yet but otherwise, the used pods can be discarded responsibly.

Nespresso

Nespresso capsules are aluminum and discarding them requires more effort. Nespresso has its own recycling program where they supply you with special recycling bags so you can collect the used pods and drop them off at your local Nespresso store or a Yodel Collectplus location. If there are none of these nearby you can arrange to have them picked up from your home. These steps do require more planning and effort compared to Keurig which can make it difficult to stay motivated. Another downside with Nespresso machines is that they are not compatible with reusable coffee pods.

F.A.Q.s

Is a Nespresso better than a Keurig?

Nespresso machines are premium quality coffee makers that use advanced technology to extract rich concentrated espresso. Keurig coffee makers use a hybrid brew system that’s not dissimilar to drip coffee but incorporates a little more pressure. Nespresso coffee is a bit richer and more aromatic than Keurig coffee but the machines and capsules are more expensive to buy.

Are Nespresso pods same as Keurig?

Nespresso pods are made from aluminum and are a different shape and structure to Keurig pods. Keurig pods are plastic with a foil lid and the two types are not interchangeable between pod machines.

What is the difference between Nespresso and Keurig?

Nespresso is a Swiss brand that makes super-automatic espresso machines. Keurig is an American company that makes single-serve coffee makers that brew larger volumes of drip-style coffee. Nespresso machines are more expensive to buy compared to Keurig models.

What is the best Nespresso?

The best Nespresso machine for everyday use is the Nespresso VertuoPlus.

What are the advantages of a Nespresso?

Nespresso coffee machines brew espresso coffee at the touch of a button. They are sleek, stylish, and very easy to use. The capsules contain all the coffee grounds meaning there’s no mess associated with the coffee brewing process. There’s an internal storage container for used capsules, which can be recycled using the Nespresso recycling program. The machines typically come with a 2-year warranty.

The Five Best Keurig Machines

• 1. Top Choice – Keurig K-Elite
• 2. Runner Up – Keurig K-Cafe
• 3. Best for Small Spaces – Keurig K-Mini
• 4. Budget Option – Keurig K-Classic
• 5. Most Versatile – Keurig K-Duo

1. Top Choice – Keurig K-Elite

If you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all solution to make your morning cup of joe then look no further! The Keurig K-Elite has all the necessary features to brew a delicious cup of coffee so all you need to do is add your favorite coffee pod.

It can brew five different cup sizes up to 12 Oz and the large, 75 Oz water tank means it can do this without you having to refill the tank every time. It has a strong brew button for a more intense flavor or try it over ice if it’s a hot summer’s day.

It can brew coffee in less than a minute and the energy-saving auto-off means you don’t have to keep an eye on it. It has the option of simply dispensing hot water to make tea or oatmeal. It has a descaling alarm, and quiet brew technology and is an ideal choice for any home.

2. Runner Up – Keurig K-Cafe

The K-Cafe is the best option if you love specialty coffee alongside enjoying the ease of using a Keurig. This model works in the same manner as a regular Keurig but it comes with the added benefit of a milk frother jug. This is dishwasher safe so stale milk doesn’t need to be an issue.

It can brew a specialty shot of coffee that’s perfect for cappuccino, lattes, or simply enjoying as an espresso. There’s also an over-ice setting to cool you down on warm days. It has all the usual features of a Keurig like energy-saving auto-off, descaling alert, is travel mug friendly, and it has a removable water reservoir for easy refilling.

This is a great option for very easy specialty coffee made using any K-cup pod or even the My K-cup universal filter for use with your own coffee grounds.

3. Best for Small Spaces – Keurig K-Mini

The Keurig K-Mini is a budget-friendly coffee maker that can fit literally anywhere. It’s extremely slim in design at less than five inches wide and comes in a huge range of colors to suit any room in your home. It’s a perfect option for shared accommodation, dorm rooms, a guest room, or to have in your workspace.

It’s a single-serve option so it only brews as much coffee as you add water. The tank can hold up to 12 Oz so you can brew any size of coffee from six to twelve ounces. The drip tray is removable so it can easily fit any travel mug up to seven inches tall.

There’s power cord storage in the body of this option which makes this a more portable option. It doesn’t have any other fancy features that you may find with a Keurig. It’s a simple, easy-to-use option and ideal for small spaces.

4. Budget Option – Keurig K-Classic

A balance between inviting features and a low price tag is the Keurig K-Classic. It’s a sleek and stylish-looking machine with simple button controls. It can brew the three most common cup size options using a single-serve brew method. The water tank fits neatly onto the side of the machine and holds a comfortable 48 Oz.

It has warning lights for power on, descaling, adding water, heating up, and auto off so you can easily see the settings from a single glance. It brews coffee in under a minute and the removable drip tray means you can brew directly into a travel mug.

Overall, this option is a really good choice if you want a machine that’s functional but you don’t want to invest a lot in it. It’s an attractive option, does all the important steps and it won’t cost you the earth.

5. Most Versatile – Keurig K-Duo

The K-Duo is a versatile choice as it combines the single-serve coffee brewer with a drip coffee maker. The carafe side uses coffee grounds and a paper filter to brew a large carafe. It has programmable auto brew which means you can set it up the night before and awake to fresh coffee in the morning. There’s even a pause and pour feature so you can grab some coffee before the brew cycle is complete.

The single-serve side can brew four different cup sizes and will accommodate a travel mug up to 8 inches tall. It has a strong brew button if you like your coffee to taste very bold. The water reservoir is removable so this makes it easy to refill.

This option is a great choice if you like to brew coffee in a variety of ways and if you prefer to set the machine up the night before so you don’t need to be struggling in the morning when you’d rather still be asleep.

Final Thoughts

So that’s it for Nespresso vs Keurig coffee makers. Nespresso makes premium coffee makers that brew espresso and specialty coffee using unique brew methods. They are more of an investment to buy and the capsules can be quite costly. A Keurig is an easy and affordable way to brew single-serve coffee using a drip brewing type method. They are inexpensive to buy and there is a wider range of capsules to choose from. In the end, the correct choice comes back to how you enjoy your coffee best and which one best suits your individual needs.

Happy Brewing!