Nespresso and Keurig are two of the most popular coffee makers on the market. They both use special coffee pods, or capsules, to make coffee. With so many options, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. This article will compare Nespresso vs Keurig and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Single Serve Coffee Maker
The first thing to consider is whether you want a single serve coffee machine or not. Keurig and Nespresso coffee makers both make remarkable single serve coffee makers, which means they make one cup of coffee at a time instead of an entire pot.
It is very convenient for people who drink just one cup in the morning or families who have specific preferences for their coffee. I like hot coffee every day while my wife can’t go without an iced coffee (even during the winter).
The machines work by inserting a special coffee pod, filled with your favorite coffee grounds, into the machine. Piercing the pods allows water to flow through and extract maximum flavor.
Nespresso Vertuoline machines even have a barcode built into each pod that’s scanned each time a specialty pot is inserted into the machine. The device will customize brew temperature and extraction time to create the perfect espresso shot for that roast.
Keurig machines can use K-cups or, for a more wide selection of coffee types and flavors, refillable cups that you fill yourself with your own coffee grounds. The Keurig has over 400 different types of pods to choose from, while Nespresso offers about 50 different kinds of officially licensed pods. This can be a downside for people who like to experiment with their coffee or want more variety in their morning cup.
Nespresso Machines Overview
Nespresso mahines specialize in creating a brew that is more aligned with those who love strong espresso based drinks. If you are looking for a machine that can make both regular coffee and espresso, then the Nespresso might be a better choice.
The unit is originated in Switzerland and is part of the Netle Group. They have a growing presence in North America and over 150,000 customers in the states. The unit is smaller than a traditional coffee maker and can fit almost anywhere on your kitchen countertop.
Nespresso machines use proprietary pods which have a built in filter meaning no mess and no hassle with cleaning up grounds. Some machines come equipped with an automatic milk frother so you can create cafe style drinks like lattes and cappuccinos without any extra fuss. One downside to consider is that these machines can be more expensive than Keurig brewers in the long run due to the need to buy official pods rather than generic K-cups. Check out our What is Nespresso page for even more info.
Keurig Machines Overview
Keurig machines are easy to use and k-cups are available in most supermarkets and grocery stores. K-Cups offer a larger selection of coffee than Nespresso, including flavored coffees such as vanilla or raspberry and tea options like green tea and English breakfast. The downside to the Keurig is that you won’t get that espresso like flavor like you would with a Nespresso, but it is still a great machine for regular coffee.
Keurig is officially part of Keurig Dr. Pepper, which is the second largest beverage company in North America. Keurig machines come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with options for large batches or single servings. Some models also have special features like built-in water filters or digital screens that allow you to customize your coffee brewing experience.
The best part is that Keurig machines are often more affordable than Nespresso machines, so it is a great option for those on a budget. Overall, the machines and the k-cups are easy to use and offer a great cup of coffee.
Nespresso vs Keurig Showdown
Our Recommended Nespresso Machine
The Nespresso Citiz Espresso Machine by DeLonghi is our top pick for the best Nespresso machine. It has a compact design that fits well on any countertop and comes with an automatic milk frother so you can create cafe style drinks without any extra fuss. The machine also has a built-in water filter to help keep your coffee tasting great every time.
Our Recommended Keurig Coffee Machine
The Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker is our top choice for best Keurig coffee maker. It has a large 75 oz water reservoir and comes with features like customizable brewing options, auto-off function, and multiple brew sizes to ensure your cup of joe tastes great every time. This model also has the ability to control the brew strength and the water temperature. The iced coffee brew options is also great for a summertime treat.
This model has replaced the Keurig K575 for the best overall Keurig coffee maker. The K575 was our previous top pick due to its large water reservoir and ability to make multiple cups of coffee at once. However, the K-Elite has taken over as our new favorite with its added features and affordable price tag. The K575 is also being discontinued.
Nespresso vs Keurig: Which One Is Right For You?
The Nespresso and Keurig coffee makers are two very popular single serve coffee machines. They are both convenient, easy to use and make great tasting coffee in minutes.
The Nespresso coffee maker is perfect for people who want an espresso like taste without having to go down the rabbit hole of Italian drink preparation or will be using it more frequently than a Keurig would fit into their routine.
On the other hand, if you just need your daily cup of Joe with no frills then a Keurig might be the better choice for you. Some models even have special features like built-in water filters which can remove any chlorine taste from tap water so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing flavor every time someone turns on the faucet at home before filling up your mug! Both companies offer affordable options so there
Considerations
The Coffee Pods Value and Variety
A Keurig machine comes with a large variety of k cup pods to choose from, while Nespresso offers a much smaller selection of coffee pods. If you are looking for more variety in your coffee or tea options, then the Keurig would be a better choice. However, if you are loyal to a certain flavor or brand of coffee and don’t want to stray from your preferred taste, then the Nespresso coffee may be better suited for you to brew espresso.
Keurig k-cups are cheaper per pod than Nespresso pods. This means that over time, the Keurig will be more affordable to use than a Nespresso machine. The downside is that you won’t get a more traditional espresso like coffee from a k-cup. Keurig also reusable Keurig pods that allow you to brew coffee with your favorite coffee brands.
Nespresso has two lines Nespresso machines availbale. The Original Nespresso and the Nespresso Vertuo coffee maker. Each line uses different pods. The Nespresso Vertuo uses a special pod that enables the machine to brew a more traditional espresso like coffee along with unique milk pods that rival your local coffee shop.
The Machine Size and Design
Nespresso machines tend to be on the smaller side with sleek designs, while Keurig machines come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you have limited counter space or want a pod coffee machine that doesn’t take much room, then the Nespresso would be a better option. However, if you need a large water reservoir for multiple cup brewing or want a machine with a digital display, then the Keurig would be a better choice.
The Automatic Milk Frother
Many Nespresso machines come with automatic frothers for creating cafe style drinks, while Keurig machines do not (there are a few options with frothers on the side like the Keurig K Cafe). If you are looking to make lattes or cappuccinos at home without any extra fuss, then the Nespresso would be a better option. However, if you don’t need this feature or already have another way to froth your milk, then the Keurig would work just fine.
Ease of Use
The Keurig is very easy to use – just pop in a k-cup and press start! The downside is that there are some k-cups that simply do not taste all that great no matter how many times you try them. With the Nespresso, you have less options, but each one is hand picked for quality so you don’t have to worry about poor taste.
The Price of Machines
Price is often another consideration when choosing between two products like this. The cheapest Keurigs are usually around $100 while the cheapest Nespressos tend to start at about double that price. This means if budget is very important then perhaps go with the cheaper – but it also depends on the other factors like features, size, and design.
The Brewing Method
Nespresso uses a unique method where water is pressurized to produce the brewed coffee. The Keurig, on the other hand, doesn’t force hot water through coffee grounds with any additional pressure to make your drink. This can help create better tasting results with less effort for both machines though the difference may be minimal in some cases depending on what you are using it for and how picky of an espresso lover you are!
The Brewing Time
Both Nespresso capsules and k-cups have very short brewing times – usually under a minute for each cup. As long as you preheat your machine before this process begins then there should not be much wait time between making multiple drinks back to back either which makes these two great options if you need many different types of drinks in a short amount of time.
The Water Reservoir Size and Removal Method
Some Nespresso machines have very small water reservoirs that you need to refill frequently, while others come with larger tanks for multiple cup brewing without having to be refilled as often. The Keurig usually has the larger capacity since it is used for more than just espresso drinks so if you want an option where constant refilling isn’t necessary then go with the Keurig instead (but beware of this when choosing between different models – some can hold up to 50 ounces!).
The Ecological Impact
Keurig has recently come out with an eco-friendly version called the Keurig VUE brewing system. This machine allows users to brew single cups using either pre-packaged soft pods or their own ground coffee beans giving consumers more choice over what they drink without compromising on the environment.
Nespresso, on the other hand, is designed with environmental impact in mind. Each pod is fully recyclable. They even have a page that allows you to find local recycling centers near you.
Final Thoughts
Both the Nespresso and Keurig machines are great for making quick, easy and delicious coffee without any of the hassle. They both have their own benefits depending on your needs and preferences, so it really comes down to what is most important to you.
If you want more variety in your pod selection and a larger water reservoir, then the Keurig would be a better choice.
If you are looking for an espresso like coffee experience with high quality pods and limited counter space, then the Nespresso would be perfect! Whichever machine you choose, we know that you’ll love waking up each morning to a fresh cup of coffee!
Check out our other coffee gear reviews and coffee bean reviews to really get your collection underway!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make hot chocolate with a Keurig?
Yes, you can make hot chocolate with a Keurig. There are many different types of hot chocolate k-cups that you can choose from. Just make sure to follow the directions on the k-cup so that your drink comes out correctly.
Can you use Nespresso pods in a Keurig?
No, you cannot use Nespresso pods in a Keurig. These two machines use different brewing methods. Also, Nespresso pods are not compatible with Keurig’s K Cups.
What is the difference between Keurig and Nespresso coffee?
The main difference between Keurig and Nespresso coffee is the brewing method. Both have a high quality coffee, but Nespresso coffee is made with pressurized water while Keurig coffee is brewed more like regular drip coffee.
Can Nespresso make espresso based drinks?
Of course! Nespresso’s machines are known for making excellent authentic espresso based drinks. If you want to make a cappuccino, latte, or other espresso drink, just follow the directions on your machine and choose the appropriate pod. You’ll have a delicious drink in no time after it brews espresso for you!
Can I use my own coffee grounds in a Keurig?
Yes, you can use your own coffee grounds in a Keurig. There are many different reusable k-cups that you can purchase that will allow you to do this. Just make sure to follow the instructions so that your drink comes out correctly.
How much caffeine is in a Nespresso pod?
The amount of caffeine in a Nespresso pod can vary depending on the type of coffee that you choose. However, most Nespresso pods contain around 40-60mg of caffeine.
