Nespresso and Keurig are both popular single-serving coffee makers, but which brewer is the one for you?
Marginally different machines that make marginally different cups of coffee, these two single-serving coffee makers have been duking it out across the globe for years.
In this corner, we have the Nespresso, a sleek and stylish machine that uses those little aluminum pods to make a surprisingly rich cup of coffee.
And in this corner, we have the Keurig, a powerhouse of a machine that can make everything from a cup of joe to a piping hot latte.
So, which one should you buy? Which one is the best single-serving coffee maker?
Well, that all depends on what you're looking for. So let's take a closer look at each machine to see what they each have to offer.
Nespresso vs Keurig: Which is the Best One to Buy?
Round 1: Purpose
As you might guess by the clever naming scheme, a Nespresso machine is a kind of speedy "espresso machine." Nespresso capsules are convenient "espresso capsules." You can make other types of coffee in a Nespresso machine, but the focus is on making espresso-based beverages quickly and easily. Keurig brewers are more focused on making what Americans consider "regular" coffee fast. There are espresso K-cups available, but these are the exception rather than the rule.
Round 2: Capsules vs K-Cups
Nespresso machines use capsules filled with coffee grounds, while Keurig machines use K-cups... filled with coffee grounds. Nespresso capsules are more expensive than K-cups, but they usually produce a richer, more full-bodied cup of coffee.
Round 3: Cost
Nespresso machines generally cost more than Keurig machines, though this isn't always the case (especially when you factor in sale prices). And again, Nespresso capsules are generally a little more expensive than K-cups—though probably not enough to make a significant difference in your monthly budget.
Round 4: Ease of Use
Nespresso machines are very easy to use—just insert a capsule and push a button. Keurig machines are also easy to use, though you may need to experiment with the water level to get your perfect cup of coffee. Both machines require regular descaling. (See our guide to descaling a Keurig machine)
Round 5: Speed
Since Keurig machines are somewhat faster and easier to use than Nespresso machines, they may be better for busy people who take their coffee on the way out the door. However, keep in mind that this is all relative—both types of machines are intended to make good coffee in a hurry.
Round 6: Range of Models
While a considerable number of Americans have still never been in the same room with a Nespresso machine—let alone used one—they've enjoyed much more popularity in European nations for years. Because Nespresso machines are (relatively) rare in U.S. households, it might surprise you to know that there are a wider variety of Nespresso brewer models than Keurig brewer models. This is because there are more individual companies making Nespresso-capsule compatible brewers, while Keurig has always been its own distinct brand.
Round 7: Variety of Coffees
If you like to have a lot of different types of coffee on hand, Keurig is probably the way to go. While there are a limited number of Nespresso capsules available, Keurig K-cups come in every flavor and style imaginable. If you can dream it, there's probably a K-cup for it.
The Verdict
It's a close matchup between these two great single-serving coffee makers. Both Nespresso and Keurig machines have their pros and cons, but ultimately it's up to you to decide.
For what they're intended to do—make coffee in a hurry—Nespresso and Keurig can both make a good cup of coffee, so it really comes down to how you intend to use it, and your own personal preference.
(And remember: in a pinch, if you need to use Nespresso coffee in a Keurig or K-cup coffee in a Nespresso maker… there are ways.)
The most important thing is that Black Insomnia offers both Nespresso capsules and K-Cups. Looking for the K-cup with the most caffeine? We’ve got you.
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Looking for the Nespresso pod with the most caffeine? We’ve got you too.
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In other words, no matter which kind of single-serving brewer you choose, you can enjoy the coffee with the most caffeine in the world in a convenient, single-serve format for your machine. Isn't modern technology great?
