There are manywonderful things about nespresso machinesand the delicious cream they can produce. For starters, there's the ease of use and convenience of being able to brew a shot of coffee almost instantly.
But there's one big downside to the Nespresso world - and that's most capsules.disposable. You might struggle to deal with the daily piles of used capsules, or you might dread buying a new machine only to have to buy a bunch of environmentally irresponsible capsules.
You will probably like these refillable Nespresso capsules. Although these products are quite simple, there is a wide range of options. That's why we've ranked the reviews so you can make an informed choice and find the right option for you.
A quick recap of our favorites (2023 updated)
| Photo | products | details | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
best overall |  | Cafila steel capsules | ||
Best for VertuoLine |  | Bluesea refillable capsules | ||
 |  | Capmesso reusable capsules | ||
| best value |  | sealing capsules | ||
 | Alchemy bar product capsules |
The 5 best reusable Nespresso capsules
1.Cafila reusable capsules (Original Line) - best overall
These capsules ofcafésmake bold promises about crema. And most of the time, they don't disappoint. They are made of stainless steel, so they are very durable and can be reused endlessly. Thanks to a clever rubber gasket around the rim, these capsules are able to create a strong seal and create that all-important crema we've all come to expect from espresso.
Many users recommend filling these capsules just below the rim, but no more. This is because filling these capsules can cause problems as water can seep all the way through. Also, it's best to leave some space for water to fill the capsule before breaking the seal - this will produce a stronger, more satisfying coffee. Remember to use finely ground grains and nothing too coarse.
This is our top pick for the best refillable Nespresso capsule because of the wonderful crema.
Benefits
- exceptional cream
- Single push top with rubber seals
Disadvantages
- A little more expensive than other options
- Incompatible with some newer machines - check compatibility
2.Bluesea Coffee Capsule (Vertuo Line) – Best for Vertuo Line
Next come our top picks for thevertuo line. Due to differences in the brewing process, many of the reusable capsules on the market are designed for the Original line of Nespresso machines and very few are built for the Vertuo line. This is because the mechanics of the Vertuo process are more complicated. These pods need to spin quickly, and it's this spinning motion that mixes the coffee and water properly.
The Bluesea coffee pods aim to fill the space left by the Vertuo's lack of refillable options, and they do it very well. The stainless steel finish on these capsules looks wonderful and also means they will last over time. Don't worry about the espresso soaking the surface and leaving residue - this is not a problem with steel.
These capsules are a great choice for anyone who is excited about a newer machine from the Vertuo range and is looking for a more sustainable way to eat their breakfast.
Benefits
- solid construction
- Well-designed top promises great cream
Disadvantages
- a more expensive option
- Compatible with Vertuo machines only
3.CAPMESSO Reusable Espresso Capsules (Original Line)
OCAPMESSO Reusable Espresso Capsulesare a very simple option and perhaps a great choice for anyone who wants ease of use and doesn't mind using stickers. These capsules use aluminum lids that stick to the cups.
After filling the CAPMESSO with your favorite coffee, simply press an aluminum cap onto the capsule and slide the capsule into the machine. This makes cleaning easier but means you occasionally have to refill the disposable tops. However, the patch also makes better creaming overall, which some users particularly appreciate.
As these pods are very light, they may not withstand endless use. Expect these pods to – of course – last longer than a typical Nespresso pod. But also, expect to only use them consistently for about a month. This isn't the answer if you're looking for an infinitely reusable option, but it's a good choice if you're looking for something in between.
Benefits
- satisfying cream
- reliable and consistent
Disadvantages
- Not infinitely reusable
- A little difficult to clean
4.Sealpod - Stainless Steel (Original Line) - Best value for money
OSealpod refillable stainless steel podsthey stand out from the crowd because instead of using a flip top closure or some kind of latch, these capsules have an adhesive backing. This is handy because you won't have any problems carrying one and getting it ready. You'll also have no trouble disposing of used spinning tops and doing a quick cleanup.
Unfortunately, you'll occasionally need to refill the tops, but if you don't mind that, the Sealpod is a great option. Adhesive tops allow for more reliable and even pressure build-up than some alternatives and promise great crema.
Users generally like this option and report that it works well. A minor downside to the Sealpod, however, is its size. Because the stainless steel is meant to prevent punctures that would occur with traditional Nespresso pods, the Sealpod itself is a bit smaller than typical pods. This means your photos may be smaller than a traditional Nespresso pod, but it's probably just a small difference and might not be a big deal.
Benefits
- Filling is quick and easy
- easy to clean
Disadvantages
- Disposable tops need to be refilled occasionally
- A smaller basket size can mean smaller shots.
5.Alchemy Bar Goods reusable Nespresso capsules (original range)
OReusable Nespresso capsulesAlchemy bar products are practical in part because they are so easy to clean. These capsules are completely washable, which can make your morning routine a lot easier. Simply fill the capsule, close the lid, prepare your drink, empty the capsule into the bin and place the reusable capsule in the dishwasher to be ready for the next day.
Unlike some models, Alchemy Bar Goods pods use a lockable lid instead of a sticky lid. This means that the pressure builds up before the water is released through some sort of valve. This system typically does not produce as much cream as a patch option, but it is much more reliable and easier to use. As a bonus, you never have to refill the tops.
These capsules are made from BPA-free plastic and are designed to withstand the temperatures used in the Nespresso process. We appreciate details like these, but unfortunately, the flip-top design gets in the way of making a rich, cream-rich espresso. Consider this option a convenient alternative to single-use pods, but don't expect them to completely replace the typical Nespresso experience.
As these capsules cannot reliably produce super strong coffee, we have included them as our last choice. This is a typical issue with refillable pods and is something to keep in mind.
Benefits
- easy to clean
- Lasting
Disadvantages
- bad cream
- weaker shots
Buying guide: how to find the best refillable Nespresso capsules
There's a whole wild world of refillable pods out there. Because these products are so easy to make - and relatively easy - many different options have emerged. More so than other coffee products, this means you have a variety of options to choose from. However, it is worth considering the purchase carefully. Here are some important things to keep in mind.
Original line or Vertuo line
Think carefully about the type of capsule you are looking for. If you already own a Nespresso machine, make sure you find compatible capsules. If you want to buy refillable pods in anticipation of a nice new machine, take a lookounce Nespresso Guide.
The fundamental difference betweenthe VertuoLine methodand the original method is in mechanics. Original Line machines simply use the pods to create high pressure before forcing water through the ground coffee, similar to traditional espresso machines.
VertuoLine machines force water into the pods and then turn them upside down to mix the water and soil. This more elaborate process may produce better drinks, but it means a lot more design for the capsules.
Because of this, most of the refillable pods here are designed for the Original line, but we offer one that works well for the VertuoLine.
several tops
One of the most important parts of any Nespresso capsule is the top. Of course, the lid ensures that the pressure can build up before the wonderful coffee comes out. It's this pressure that creates a good cream, so finding a good sealant is important.
The pods we reviewed are fairly evenly split between those that use adhesive-style tops and those that use snap-on tops. The difference is that adhesive-type caps depend on the adhesive and are disposable, while closing caps are part of the capsules themselves.
A big downside to sticker-like tops is that you occasionally have to refill. This loses some of the convenience that refillable pods promise. It also means that sticker-like tops aren't as eco-friendly as they could be.
But sticky lids have one big advantage. They can usually handle a much larger pressure buildup before releasing the coffee. For this reason, sticker-style accessories are a great choice for those looking for a rich cream.
Diploma
With all of the above features and drawbacks, it can be quite daunting to sort through the range of Nespresso refillable capsules. But now - after checking all our reviews - you know a lot more about these great products.
Again, we've put together some tips for you. Our pick for the year for the Original line machines is theCafila reusable stainless steel capsules, and our top pick for machines in the Vertuo range is thebluesea coffee capsule. so they followCAPMESSO Reusable Espresso Capsules, our runner-up in the Original line machines, and thevillage, our “Best Value” pick.
We hope we made your choice easier. If you choose the best Nespresso refillable capsules from our list, we believe you will be satisfied!
Index
- A quick recap of our favorites (2023 updated)
- The 5 best reusable Nespresso capsules
- 1. Cáfilas Reusable Cafilas (Original Line) – Best overall
- 2. Bluesea Coffee Capsule (Vertuo Line) - Best for Vertuo Line
- 3. CAPMESSO Reusable Espresso Capsules (Original Line)
- 4. Sealpod - Stainless Steel (Original Line) - Best value for money
- 5. Alchemy Bar Goods Reusable Nespresso Capsules (Original Line)
- Buying guide: how to find the best refillable Nespresso capsules
- Original line or Vertuo line
- several tops
- Diploma
FAQs
Which reusable Nespresso pods are best? ›
1. SealPod: The best overall reusable Nespresso capsule. Designed for the Original line of Nespresso machines, SealPod's reusable capsule is made from stainless steel, offering greater durability over cheaper plastic pods.
Which Nespresso pod gives the most coffee? ›Strong, bold, and full of intense coffee flavor, Nespresso Ristretto Italiano serves as the gold standard for Nespresso espresso.
What coffee is best for refillable Vertuo pods? ›To achieve a stronger tasting brew with reusables, we recommend a dark roast, or Italian-style roast for optimal results. Sourcing a a dark roast blend will help you produce a fuller-bodied, bolder, richer coffee, along with a lovely thick and dark crema from your capsules.
Do reusable Nespresso pods damage the machine? ›Using those capsules will not damage your machine in the short or long term or affect the lifespan of your machine. Even if you use compatible capsules, Nespresso® has to by law grant the warranty on your machine.
What is the best reusable coffee capsule? ›- Cafilas Reusable Capsules (Original Line) – Best Overall.
- Bluesea Coffee Capsule (Vertuo Line) – Best for Vertuo Line.
- CAPMESSO Reusable Espresso Capsules (Original Line)
- Sealpod – Stainless-Steel (Original Line) – Best Value.
- Alchemy Bar Goods Reusable Nespresso Capsules (Original Line)
The main difference between Nespresso and Keurig pods comes down to cost and taste. Nespresso delivers a more flavorful cup of coffee or espresso but at a higher price point. Keurig pods are more budget-friendly, do not offer an espresso brew option, and can lack flavor.
Which coffee pods are most popular? ›- Pact Coffee Fruit & Nut – Best Overall.
- Illy ESE Pods Espresso Variety Pack – Best Value for Money.
- Café Royal Espresso – Budget Pick.
- CRU Kafe Organic Light Roast – Best Light Roast.
- Tassimo Costa Americano – Best Medium Roast.
- Lavazza A Modo Mio Espresso Passionale – Best Dark Roast.
Is Nespresso Discontinuing Pods? Nespresso is discontinuing its line of coffee pods, effective immediately.
Which Nespresso coffee is the least bitter? ›Ethiopia Master Origin: Best light roast Nespresso Capsule
There is little to no bitterness either, making it the perfect 'light coffee'.
Coffee Flavor and Crema
My vote for the best espresso flavor goes to Vertuo devices. Nespresso Vertuo can extract more coffee flavor and crema than the OriginalLine machine. I found Vertuo espresso to be more similar to traditional espresso. It's more extracted and has a thicker body.
Is Nespresso Vertuo being discontinued? ›
The Nespresso VertuoLine Coffee and Espresso Maker with Aeroccino Plus Milk Frother is discontinued.
Which Nespresso Vertuo pod is least bitter? ›Intenso is the best choice of Nespresso Vertuo pods if you want a bold and strong coffee that doesn't have a bitter aftertaste.
Are reusable Nespresso pods worth it? ›Reusable pods are far more economical and environmentally friendly. They also offer the freedom to choose the exact coffee you want to drink. Refilling these pods can be a chore, but they are cheaper in the long run and bring some control back into brewing coffee in a Nespresso machine.
Should I clean my Nespresso machine after every use? ›Make sure that you wipe and purge your steam wand after each use. This removes milk residue and clears milk from inside the wand. It's also a good idea to wipe down your steam wand to remove any residual milk from the outside after each and every use.
How many times can you refill Nespresso pods? ›Technically, yes, the Vertuo pods can be used twice. However, the second shot of espresso will be significantly weaker. How many times can you reuse a Nespresso Vertuo pod? I would suggest only using a Nespresso Vertuo pod a maximum of two times.
Which coffee capsule system is best? ›- Philips L'OR Sublime pod coffee machine: Best pod machine for most people. ...
- Dolce Gusto Infinissima: Best budget coffee pod machine. ...
- Dolce Gusto Genio S Plus: Best Dolce Gusto coffee pod machine. ...
- Illy Iperespresso X7. ...
- Tassimo My Way 2: Best Tassimo capsule machine.
✔ They're much more budget friendly - reusing saves you money without a doubt. ✔ They allow you the luxury of being able to brew your favourite coffee beans, right there, in the comfort of your home. ✔ They're earth-friendly, helping to divert countless plastic, single-use pods from ending up in landfill.
Are there 2 types of Nespresso capsules? ›First, let's look at the difference in pods. The original pods are small and narrow and come in one size only (since they're really meant for espresso), while the Vertuo pods are wide and round and may differ in height depending on what's inside.
What is better than Nespresso? ›Saeco vs Nespresso: Which is the better machine? Here's what we found: Saeco simply makes a better tasting espresso and offers the most luxurious coffee experience.
Which is more expensive Keurig or Nespresso? ›The average Keurig capsule costs around $.75 per serving, while Nespresso capsules are around $1.20 per serving. Most coffees from specialty coffee roasters price out around $.50-.60 per serving. If you drink at least two cups a day, you'll end up spending hundreds of dollars more a year on coffee with capsules.
Does Nespresso taste better than Starbucks? ›
...
Starbucks versus Nespresso Taste Test.
| Nespresso | Starbucks | |
|---|---|---|
| Flavour | Intense flavour, smooth. | Very bitter, almost burnt. |
| Crema | Good | None |
| Price | $0.52 | $1.55 |
- Melozio. Smooth & Balanced. 7.77oz | Coffee. ...
- Intenso. Deep & Dense. 7.77oz | Coffee. ...
- Odacio. Bold & Lively. 7.77oz | Coffee. ...
- Colombia. Washed Arabica. 7.77oz | Coffee. ...
- Mexico. Intense & Spiced. ...
- Double Espresso Chiaro. Dense & Wild. ...
- Bianco Forte. Dark Roasted & Balanced. ...
- Bianco Doppio. Nutty & Balanced.
| Rank | Coffee Brand | Revenue (USD billions) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Starbucks | 26.5 |
| 2 | Costa Coffee | 1.54 |
| 3 | Dunkin' Donuts | 1.37 |
| 4 | McCafé | 21.07 |
The great news is that, through proper care and maintenance, your Nespresso® machine could see a lifespan of 5-10 years.
How many years does a Nespresso last? ›All in all, your Nespresso machine should last between 6 and 10 years if you have a solid, routine maintenance schedule and take the time to descale it at the recommended intervals. If you don't take good care of your Nespresso machine, you may get lucky enough to get more than a few years out of it.
How many Nespresso pods per day is healthy? ›Moderate coffee consumption translates as follows to Nespresso: Original: moderate caffeine intake translates as 3 to 5 cups. Professional/B2B: moderate caffeine intake translates as 2 to 5 cups. Vertuo: moderate caffeine intake translates as 2 to 3 cups for the Mugs, Gran Lungos and Double Espressos.
Why does my Nespresso coffee not taste good? ›Over time and with regular use your Nespresso® machine will experience a build-up of old coffee oils and residue in its brewing chamber. This is where old coffee residue sits, blocking the nozzle and making your coffee taste bitter and your coffee flow poor.
What coffee is smooth and not bitter? ›Arabica beans: In contrast with the Robusta coffee beans, Arabica beans are known for their mild taste, so they are a better option for people who don't like bitter coffee. On top of that, Arabica beans have a sweeter taste, contrasting with the bitterness of coffee.
How do I know what Nespresso pods to buy? ›Choose the capsules compatible with your Nespresso machine. You can ask the seller which capsules are compatible with your espresso machine. Normally, coffee capsules are made of aluminum, plastic and vegetable fiber. The latter turns out to be the best, due to its material.
Which Nespresso Vertuo is better? ›Nespresso's best VertuoLine model, the Evoluo brews 0.3-17 oz coffee with the largest reservoir (60 oz) and used capsule capacity (17) and shortest time to brew (15 seconds). If you want a VertuoLine, you want the Evoluo.
Why is Vertuo so special? ›
With its barcode technology, Vertuo offers an extremely high level of precision. The system recognizes each coffee capsule, then adjusts the brewing parameters – such as temperature, crema, flow, rotation speed and water/coffee contact time – to deliver the best results in every cup.
Is the Vertuo plus better than the Vertuo? ›The Vertuo is more advanced than either the VertuoPlus or VertuoPlus Deluxe! Its 40 oz reservoir is so-so but its 1350W heating element leaves you just 15 seconds from brew-ready water.
Why can you only buy Vertuo pods from Nespresso? ›The dome-shaped VertuoLine capsules are only available from Nespresso because they require a barcode to be recognized by the Vertuo machine. This means the variety is limited, and you might have a harder time finding what you want.
What's the difference between Vertuo and original Nespresso 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.
Are Vertuo pods worth it? ›Tom's Guide Verdict. The Nespresso Vertuo Plus may change the way you view pod machines. While it's certainly not one of the cheaper at-home options, the brewer produces incredibly high quality coffee with a silky smooth flourish. You are locked into Nespresso's own pod system, though, which can prove pricey.
Are Nespresso pods high quality coffee? ›Nespresso coffees are consistently some of the best-tasting coffees you can find. They use high-quality beans and brew them to perfection, so you can always expect a great cup of coffee. Plus, their flavor profiles are always spot-on, so you can find a coffee that's perfect for your taste.
Which coffee roast is not bitter? ›Light roast coffee
Light roast coffees are less bitter, more sweet, and often tea-like. They also often have the highest acidity.
Nespresso coffee machines and coffee pods go on sale a few times a year. The best time to score a deal is typically around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and throughout the month of December. Check the top bar at Nespresso.com for the latest sale events and coupon codes.
Do Nespresso pods get moldy? ›Coffee is a natural product. When capsules have been used and are open, the wet coffee grounds will start to biodegrade, which may ultimately result in the formation of mould. The formation of mould is a natural process of decomposition, as for any organic matter.
Can I run Nespresso pods twice? ›Nespresso does not recommend that Nespresso Capsules be used more than once. However, users can get more than one brew from a capsule if they want through other methods. The strength, taste, and aroma of your drink will likely be of lesser quality, though.
How wasteful are Nespresso pods? ›
It's fair to say that coffee capsules have caused significant environmental concern since entering the market in the 1990s. Despite this, over 400 Nespresso capsules are estimated to be consumed every second around the world – potentially creating vast amounts of waste.
Does vinegar damage Nespresso machine? ›Never use vinegar as it can damage your machine. Never fill up the water tank during the descaling process. Do not swallow.
How often should I change the water in my Nespresso? ›Change the water on a daily basis. Water makes up 98% of the final drink so it should be as fresh, flavorless ,and colorless as possible to ensure the perfect espresso.
How often should you rinse your Nespresso? ›It is recommended that you descale your Nespresso machine every 600 coffees or, at least, every 6 months. Additionally, we recommend you let the water flow to clean the remains of coffee once the coffee has been prepared and after the capsule has been removed.
What ground coffee is best for reusable Nespresso pods? ›In general, a fine grind works best for reusable pods - this means that the water has to work a little harder to get through that ground coffee, creating strong, fuller bodied espresso and a beautiful extraction. Whereas a coarser grind tends to produce gentler flavours and a lighter colour crema.
Is Nespresso better than Keurig? ›The main difference between Nespresso and Keurig pods comes down to cost and taste. Nespresso delivers a more flavorful cup of coffee or espresso but at a higher price point. Keurig pods are more budget-friendly, do not offer an espresso brew option, and can lack flavor.
Do reusable pods work in Nespresso Vertuo? ›Reusable capsules
This eco-brewing system allows you to reuse your Vertuo pods, helping to substantially reduce your kitchen waste too.
Nespresso does not recommend that Nespresso Capsules be used more than once. However, users can get more than one brew from a capsule if they want through other methods. The strength, taste, and aroma of your drink will likely be of lesser quality, though.
Is there a Nespresso machine that takes both types of pods? ›Big but inexpensive, the Instant Pod is the only machine that can brew both Nespressos and K-Cups.
Are refillable coffee pods worth it? ›✔ They're much more budget friendly - reusing saves you money without a doubt. ✔ They allow you the luxury of being able to brew your favourite coffee beans, right there, in the comfort of your home. ✔ They're earth-friendly, helping to divert countless plastic, single-use pods from ending up in landfill.
What is the difference between the Nespresso Vertuo and Vertuoplus? ›
The Vertuo Plus differs from the Vertuo in two main ways: the machine head of the coffee machine has an automatic opening and closing mechanism, and you can also move the water tank to suit space in your home or office. Buy Now!
Does anyone else make Vertuo pods? ›Vertuo pods are available from Nespresso only.
Do I need to clean out Nespresso pods before recycling? ›To do so, use Nespresso's dedicated recycling bags, which you can fill up with 100 Vertuo or 200 Original pods. Then, drop off the bag at Nespresso boutiques, partner retailers, or UPS locations worldwide. You don't need to empty the pods of coffee grounds or rinse them out.
How often should you wash your Nespresso? ›It is recommended that you descale your Nespresso machine every 600 coffees or, at least, every 6 months. Additionally, we recommend you let the water flow to clean the remains of coffee once the coffee has been prepared and after the capsule has been removed.
How many cups of coffee does one Nespresso capsule make? ›It is an innovative aluminum capsule containing coffee and Nespresso holds a proprietary patent for it. One capsule can be used to extract one cup of coffee.
Is Vertuo better than original? ›Winner: The Nespresso VertuoLine wins this round because each coffee machine can make both espresso and coffee. While the Originals offer built-in milk frothing, the availability of the Aeroccino renders that less important.