Nespresso vs Espresso: What’s the Difference?

Are you going back and forth between buying a Nespresso vs espresso machine? Perhaps you want to settle a debate on which tastes better. But wait… isn’t Nespresso technically espresso? 

Here, we’ll break down the main differences between the two, so next time someone asks you which you prefer, you’ll be able to answer with confidence.

Is Nespresso Espresso?

Before we go any further, let’s clarify one thing: is Nespresso espresso? Not quite.

A traditional shot of espresso will give you a rich, full-bodied, and defined flavor. Nespresso offers a weaker, less intense shot. The name comes from Nestle’s desire to offer java drinkers a more convenient way of making a shot of espresso. However, any true java connoisseur knows that there are some significant differences between the two.

To understand which is best and why people prefer one over the other, it’s important to learn how espresso vs Nespresso machines differ.

About Nespresso

Nespresso machines were manufactured by the Nestle Group and are designed for ultimate convenience and consistency. The name is a combination of Nestle and espresso.

These machines are a type of espresso machine. They use sealed coffee capsules (pods) to make a cup of espresso. This makes it simpler for those who would rather skip the somewhat complex steps of using an espresso machine. 

The coffee pods are disposable, pre-portioned servings for the Nespresso machine. They offer ultimate convenience and are super easy to use. Think about how you just plop a k-pod into your Keurig machine and press a button. It’s the same concept! 

The Similarities

You’ll notice that the differences outweigh the similarities. However, both machines require high-temperature pressurized water pumped through the coffee grounds. They also both operate at around 9 bars of pressure, which is important for a strong cup of joe.

The Differences

The main difference is that a Nespresso machine uses coffee pods while espresso machines grind coffee beans. This directly impacts the taste.  

A Nespresso machine is all about quickness and convenience while espresso machines allow users to experiment and create authentic shots. With a traditional machine, you have to grind, tamp, consider water pressure, extraction time, etc.. You don’t need to consider any of this when using a Nespresso. 

Moreover, there are several types of espresso machines. You have manual, semi-automatic, fully automatic, and super-automatic machines. The right machine for you depends on budget, capacity, and features. Unless you get a super-automatic machine, you’ll have to learn how to use the machine to get a quality shot.

Again, Nespresso works with the click of a button, the disadvantage being that you’re not getting the real thing. The biggest difference is probably the flavor resulting from using pods vs grinding and tamping your coffee beans. Nespresso will be weaker, while espresso will offer a more defined, complex flavor.

Which Type is Best For You?

In order to decide which is best for you, you need to take taste, convenience, and price into consideration. If taste is your top priority, go with a traditional espresso machine. You’ll have much more freedom to experiment with your shots using a traditional machine as opposed to a Nespresso. 

Now, if your main objective is convenience, it doesn’t get any better than a Nespresso machine. These machines are as easy as adding a pod and pressing a button. Just keep in mind that you’re not going to get as strong a taste as you would if you made traditional espresso.

Finally, budget plays an important role in any purchase. Espresso machines are going to be more expensive than Nespresso because of their features. You can create authentic, full-bodied drinks with a traditional machine as opposed to a Nespresso. Many espresso machines also come with steamers which produce that rich crema.

The Takeaway

There’s a reason Nespresso machines have grown in popularity. They produce sweet espresso at the click of a button. However, will they ever come close to the traditional taste of shots made from espresso machines? Probably not. 

The only way to learn if you enjoy Nespresso is to give it a try yourself. You may find you don’t mind a shot of Nespresso on those rushed mornings. Now, if you’re very particular about your coffee and want the most control over your cup, an espresso machine is best for you. 

Happy caffeinating!