How a capsule coffee machine works: types and compatibility of capsules of different brands

True coffee lovers prefer to prepare this drink in the traditional way - in a Turk, observing the rules and proportions. But quite often, there is simply not enough time for leisurely preparation, especially in the morning when you need to get ready for work. This situation can be easily resolved with the help of a capsule coffee machine. This device will independently perform all operations, and the person only has to select and insert the capsule, and clean the device after use.

The operating principle of capsule-type coffee makers

Before purchasing, it is recommended to carefully study how the capsule coffee machine works. It has its own characteristic features that must be taken into account during daily use.

The action of these devices is based on the use of special capsules, made in the form of small containers filled with different types of ground coffee. Thanks to hermetically sealed packaging, the taste of the product is preserved for a long time.

Capsule-type coffee makers operate as follows:

• Cold water is poured into the tank. It is recommended to use purified bottled water.
• The capsule is placed in a special compartment.
• After pressing the button, the preparation of the drink starts. In expensive models, it is possible to further configure the desired mode.
• The capsule is pierced with a hollow needle, through which water flows inside under pressure, heated to the desired temperature.
• The coffee begins to brew and the finished drink is gradually collected in the container. To avoid premature cooling, heating is equipped.

Many coffee machines are equipped with a built-in cappuccino maker, which allows you to prepare drinks using frothed milk.

What you need to know about capsule coffee

Capsule coffee machines allow you to prepare coffee with the correct brewing time and maintain the optimal water temperature. This is why coffee capsules are gaining popularity among true connoisseurs of invigorating strong cocktails.

Coffee capsules are made from the following materials:

• aluminum foil (common type);
• foil polymers with the addition of cellulose (combined type);
• harmless food-grade plastic for coffee (does not change the flavor bouquet of the blend).

Coffee makers and capsule coffee machines are equipped with a sealed lid located between the filters. The containers are placed in a special compartment where two holes are pierced on opposite sides. The brewing principle is simple: on one side the machine supplies hot water, on the other side of the hole we get the finished drink.

How long does one cup last and what is the percentage of caffeine in the capsules: you can use a reusable cup from 30 to 50 times, and the caffeine in the capsules is no more than that of coffee in cans or beans. At the same time, it is possible to create your own blends, experimenting with different varieties.

What are the types of capsules for coffee machines?

The capsule system was first proposed for use by the international concern Nestle in 1986. This innovation became known as Nespresso and is still considered the founder of this trend. Later, other companies adopted this idea, enriching their products with their own original recipe. Due to their high quality, the products are in high demand, and the wide range helps attract many new connoisseurs of good coffee.

The main element of the system is the capsule, which is mandatory for all coffee machines of this type. Each device operates using its own technology, but all of them are aimed at maximizing the taste and other beneficial qualities of the drink. Despite the external similarity, there are different types of capsules for coffee machines, differing in their characteristics.

How to choose a capsule coffee machine for your home

These differences are manifested in the following individual characteristics:

• The company that produces the product. Most capsules are only suitable for similar coffee machines.
• Material used for manufacturing.
• Type and variety of drink with certain parameters.
• Frequency of use. All branded manufacturers specialize in disposable capsules, ensuring high quality products.

It is worth considering in more detail the materials used for the capsules. They consist of completely safe substances, are absolutely neutral to coffee powder, are easily recycled and do not harm the environment. In accordance with the materials, all capsules can be divided into the following types:

• Aluminum foil used by most companies.
• Polymers (plastics). Food grades of these materials are environmentally friendly and safe. There is no unpleasant odor. They do not react with coffee raw materials.
• Combined option. The base is polymers, aluminum foil is used for lids. Some products contain cellulose.

The most popular capsule manufacturers

Nespresso

Swiss company producing capsules with high-quality ground coffee. The products are designed for the target audience of consumers who prefer this particular brand. By purchasing a coffee machine from this company, the consumer automatically enters the circle of regular customers and becomes a member of the Nespresso club. In the future, such participants can use a wide range of services offered. Specialists will help you choose the right type of coffee and accessories. At the client's request, capsules can be delivered to home or work within up to 48 hours. In branded service centers you can service or repair equipment and get advice on its operation.

The sale of Nespresso goods and products is strictly controlled. All items from the presented assortment can be ordered through special services or branded coffee boutiques.

Dolce Gusto

Nescafe Dolce Gusto products are a premium brand that produces coffee machines and special capsules for them. This organic combination allows you to quickly and professionally prepare coffee and other drinks at home or in the office. The Dolce Gusto system appeared in 2006, as a result of the joint efforts of Nestle and Groupe SEB.

Dolce capsules are densely filled with roasted and high-quality ground beans from the best Brazilian coffee varieties. Different varieties and proportions create drinks with a unique taste:

• Espresso . There are various ratios of Arabica and Robusta mixed together. There are a total of 13 varieties of this drink, rich in bright coffee aroma.
• Americano . A smooth classic drink made from 100% Arabica beans. Stronger drinks are in the Lungo or Lungo Mind category.
• Cappuccino . It contains invigorating coffee and a delicate dairy dessert made from powdered milk and sugar.
• Mocha . A three-ingredient drink made from coffee, milk and chocolate. The ingredients are distributed among two capsules.

Squesito

A well-known Italian brand that uses only high-quality premium raw materials for its products. Therefore, in a short time - since 2008 - the company has acquired many fans of its products. Squesito capsules are produced together with coffee makers of the same name.

There are 6 main items in total, from which you can always choose the appropriate option:

• The strongest drink, which includes robusta (100%).
• Medium strength coffee. Ideal for morning meals.
• 100% coffee of this variety is used.
• Here Arabica and Robusta are combined in ideal proportions. Considered a drink for the whole day.
• PREMIUM class product. Organic Arabica varieties are used to preserve the aroma and taste as much as possible.
• Arabica and robusta are mixed in a 1:1 ratio. There is no caffeine at all.

Tassimo

French capsules for coffee machines have been produced since 2004. The appearance resembles a small glass with a lid. Inside it is filled with roasted compressed coffee, packaged in canceled doses. The beneficial qualities of the drink are improved through the use of special grinding and additional processing.

In total, the company produces several options:

• Lungo. It has a mild taste. The volume is approximately 110 ml.
• Espresso. Available in classic form or with the addition of milk. The strength of the drink can be adjusted independently.
• Americano, cappuccino, caramel cappuccino and other types.

Each capsule is marked with a special barcode, which is automatically read by the coffee machine. All information necessary for work is encrypted here. The device independently regulates the volume and temperature of water, sets the cooking time, and determines the concentration of milk. The result is a coffee drink with all the declared characteristics.

The most popular capsule manufacturers

Many manufacturers produce capsules for different models of coffee machines. Some of them are regularly included in the rankings of the best.

Nespresso

Nestle produces products under this brand. The range includes not only 16 types of coffee, but also mountain herbal tea and hot chocolate. The containers are suitable for coffee machines of many brands. Price for 10 pcs. ranges from 180 to 400 rubles.

Dolce Gusto

This brand produces containers intended for Dolce Gusto and Delonghi equipment. In the manufacture of products, only safe food grade plastic is used. The line includes more than 20 flavors. This is Arabica with the addition of Robusta. In addition, manufacturers periodically release limited products. More often it is represented by 100% Brazilian Arabica. There is hot chocolate in a variety of flavors, as well as lattes, cappuccinos and decaf.

Tassimo

The capsules are disc-shaped. They have a special barcode that is read by the coffee machine. Containers designed for 9 g of raw materials contain unpressed powder. This has a positive effect on the taste of the finished drink. The brand produces 6 types of coffee, cocoa, milk, 4 types of tea and hot chocolate. Packages contain 16 containers.

Lavazza

This brand offers 6 types of espresso. High-quality food-grade plastic is used to make containers. The products are used only in Lavazza coffee machines. The package contains 30 pcs.

Cremesso

The Swiss company Delica AG produces capsules under this brand for its coffee machines. The containers are made of polypropylene, which can be recycled. The brand produces 11 types of coffee, as well as tea.

Compatibility of capsules with coffee machines of different brands

Capsule coffee machines still do not have any uniform standards. Despite the general operating principles, they differ structurally and functionally. This is not at all surprising, since there has always been fierce competition between leading manufacturers. All of them are interested in consumers buying capsules of the same brand as the coffee machine they previously purchased.

However, if you search hard, you can find some analogs that, under certain conditions, can be used in coffee machines of other brands. However, in such cases, manufacturers do not guarantee the reliable operation of the devices and always warn about possible consequences.

Rating of capsule coffee machines - TOP 8

Possible compatibility of different capsules and coffee machines is as follows:

• Nespresso coffee machine . For the production of original capsules, high-quality food grade aluminum is used. A special varnish is applied on the inside, which additionally protects the consumer from contact with the shell. Some companies are trying to produce replicas similar to the originals. Among them is the Australian company PodCate, which produces capsules for many models. There are other manufacturers that produce high-quality fakes. Their use will sooner or later lead to the failure of expensive coffee equipment. The coffee brand Nespresso produces machines that only accept original capsules. The device simply will not work with other products.
• Dolce Gusto coffee machines . Products of this brand are manufactured by a company that is part of the Nescafe industrial group. They are often called democratic products and budget copies of Nespresso. Most capsules, including those for the Dolce Gusto coffee machine, are considered interchangeable and compatible with each other. Technique Works only with original capsules produced in the form of disks.
• Cremesso coffee machines . Together with capsules, it is produced by the Swiss company Delica. The same company also produces Nespresso products, so consumables from both brands are completely compatible with each other.

Compatible with coffee machines from different manufacturers

Many coffee devices have the ability to use different capsules. For example, reusable capsules for Nespresso coffee machines are now being produced that can be used several times. They are safe and environmentally friendly, although they are made of plastic. Nespresso coffee machine manufacturers have the widest selection of capsule products. They have a large assortment - 16 types of coffee, including 7 varieties of espresso and several decaffeinated options.

Moreover, all these capsules are universal and can be suitable for cars:

Similar capsule products are produced by other manufacturers, for example:

1. Capsule products for the Cremesso coffee machine are offered to customers in 11 options, among which the most unusual is coffee with the aroma of spices.
2. For Dolce Gusto machines, 14 types of capsules are produced for making Macchiato and Latte type coffee. As well as capsule products with cocoa and tea.
3. Tassimo capsules are perfect for machines manufactured by Bosch. They are produced not only with coffee, but also with tea and cocoa.
4. Reusable capsules for Tassimo coffee machines are also very popular. They can be purchased both on special Internet resources and in regular supermarkets.

Capsules for Dolce Gusto coffee machines are popular among consumers. They are distinguished by their low cost, which, however, does not affect their quality. They are universal and can even fit Delonghi coffee machines. Dolce Gusto capsules are often called budget capsules. They are produced by Nescafe. These capsules contain 6 g of coffee (instead of the required 7 g), and they are produced in a fairly large assortment:

• Espresso – 10 variations.
• Coffee with milk – 6 variations.
• Decaffeinated – 1 option.

Pros and cons of capsule systems

Any capsule coffee machine is easy to use. It is enough to place the capsule in the compartment and set the operating mode. At the end of the procedure, the machine does not need to be washed or cleaned, and the used packaging is simply thrown away.

The capsules are processed completely silently.

The configured operating modes are subsequently saved, so the taste and other qualities of the drink always remain unchanged.

Versatility. In addition to one of your favorite drinks, you can create an exclusive version from different varieties.

The number of servings is easily calculated for the required number of people.

Coffee capsules are much more expensive than coffee beans. Prices are gradually decreasing, but very slowly and completely unnoticed by users.

Despite the wide range of capsules, the choice of drinks is quite limited. Many lovers use creamers, syrups and other additives to diversify the coffee available.

Almost complete lack of compatibility and the need to purchase capsules of the same brand. This greatly limits the choice, since all favorite varieties are not always available.

What is

As mentioned above, a tablet is a small capsule cup of pressed coffee. It is processed using special technology. That is, coffee beans undergo the necessary procedures from beginning to end (growing, collecting beans, processing, roasting, grinding and pressing). 1 cup contains up to 10 grams of coffee. The coffee tablet is placed in a special compartment of coffee makers or coffee machines. There it is pierced on both sides. Boiling water is poured under pressure on one side, and the drink is filtered on the other.

How to use a capsule coffee machine

Regardless of the manufacturer, each device must be operated according to certain rules. The performance and durability of each model depends on their compliance. First of all, these include:

• All capsules are used only once. Reusable products offered by different manufacturers do not provide the true quality of the drink. Coffee without vacuum packaging quickly loses its quality, so using reusable capsules is pointless.
• The same applies to disposable capsules that cannot be reused. The prepared drink turns out fresh - without taste or smell.
• There is no need to perform any additional steps with the coffee machine. She herself knows which capsules and how to turn them into coffee. Only minimal settings are made, for example, choosing the volume of the finished product. After the start, all processes start automatically, and the finished drink comes out, on average, after 30 seconds.
• The reservoir is filled with water at least halfway. The coffee maker itself will take as much as it needs to prepare the first serving. If the volume of water is one cup or less, the device cannot be turned on, as it is highly likely to fail.

Disadvantages of coffee capsules

When thinking about buying a capsule-type coffee maker, you should definitely familiarize yourself with the list of its disadvantages. The disadvantages are as follows:

1. Different coffee machines have their own individual characteristics that make them suitable for using certain tablets. Individual models of the same brand may require different containers.
2. Expensive. Compressed tablets are much more expensive than coffee in classic packaging.
3. Reusable capsules do not always provide the required quality of the drink.

Which coffee is better in beans or capsules?

Coffee placed in capsules is obtained from the same beans that are used immediately after grinding. It is sealed hermetically and has its own advantages:

• Diverse taste due to mixing different varieties in a capsule.
• The beans are roasted, ground into powder and immediately placed in an airtight package. In this case, the beneficial qualities of coffee are not lost at all during the entire storage period.
• The drink is prepared quickly and is perfect due to the observance of all proportions.
• Possibility of preparing coffee with various additives.

However, compared to cereal options, capsules have significant disadvantages:

• Noticeably limited range of varieties.
• The taste of freshly ground beans is much brighter compared to powder from a capsule.
• The high price determines the total cost of operating such coffee machines.
• Coffee capsules cannot be prepared in different ways.

Rating of capsules for coffee machine

Coffee capsules are ground beans into powder, packaged in doses in sealed packages. They guarantee suitable proportions, good taste, preparation of coffee drinks, for example, cappuccino, latte, Americano, espresso, etc. There were several dozen applicants under consideration, each assessed on a group of criteria:

• Brand – who the manufacturer is, what range they offer;
• Packaging - how many pieces it contains;
• Container – made of plastic, foil, silicone, steel, combined;
• Volume – how many ml of water one dose is used for;
• Roasting – low, medium, high;
• Taste – degree of bitterness, presence of sourness, aftertaste;
• Additives – milk, cream, flavorings;
• Versatility - what types of machines are suitable for;
• Purpose – one-time or multiple-use;
• Color – brown, white, black.

Expert opinions, as well as real customer reviews, played an important role in the selection of nominees. This information made it possible to weed out irrelevant products and determine the strengths and weaknesses of each nominee. Prices, their relationship to taste, and the value of raw materials were taken into account.

Best Coffee Brands

Where to buy and how to store capsules

All manufacturers place their products in packaging. At the same time, various types of rack holders are produced, allowing you to sort the capsules for the convenience of their further use.

Until recently, capsules were in a certain shortage. Today the problem with them is no longer so acute. Almost all companies have their own websites where you can order the drink you like. This is the best option, since there are still very few branded stores in our country.

How to save money

Using reusable capsules as a savings

The main disadvantage of disposable capsules is their high price, averaging 28-60 rubles per serving. In a large family or with frequent consumption of the drink, monthly expenses are quite significant.

Therefore, many lovers who are short on funds use reusable capsules presented on the Aliexpress site. Their sizes fully correspond to disposable products for a particular coffee machine. You need to pour coffee into the container, compact it well and close the lid. The taste and aroma of the finished drink depends on the quality of pressing. Next, the capsule is placed in the compartment of the device, and all further actions occur according to the usual scheme. At the end of preparation, you just need to throw away the waste, rinse the capsule with running water and dry it.

The main disadvantage of this method is the impossibility of normal compaction of the powder. Because of this, very often the taste does not reach the original, and the foam turns out to be frankly weak.

Coffeduck - empty capsules for Nespresso systems

Reusable products from the manufacturer Coffeduck work according to the same scheme. The average cost of five capsules per package is 700-800 rubles. They are available in brown and black. Their choice is influenced by the year of manufacture of the coffee machine:

• The device, manufactured before October 2010, is equipped with a capsule receptacle with a smooth tray that prevents cups from creasing. Brown products are suitable for them.
• Later devices were produced with a ribbed tray opening. This caused the upper part of the capsules to become deformed. In this case, black cups are used.

Rating TOP 7 best coffee capsules

The TOP of the best capsule coffees, in our opinion, looks exactly like this:

• Nespresso Arpeggio Decaffeinato.
• Dolce Gusto Cappuccino.
• Tassimo Latte Macchiato Caramel.
• Cremesso Lungo Caramello.
• Nespresso Envivo Lungo.
• Lavazza Intenso.
• Paulig Classic.

Let's look at them separately.

Nespresso Arpeggio Decaffeinato

Capsules made from dark roasted 100% Arabica coffee beans from Central America. It has a rich and dense taste with notes of cocoa. Despite the lack of caffeine, the drink has the best characteristics of a regular strong aromatic drink. Roasting - 4 out of 5, bitterness - 4 out of 5, sourness 2 out of 5. These capsules are perfect for lovers of real high-quality coffee.

Price: from 250 to 440 rubles.

• cafein free;
• rich coffee aroma;
• notes of cocoa in the aftertaste.

• a little bitter.

Wonderful and tasty drink! I'm already buying my third pack. I love strong coffee and drink it without adding milk or sugar. I am a connoisseur of true aroma and taste. These capsules fully satisfy my need for a good cup of coffee in the morning. There are no complaints or comments. Excellent grind, slightly bitter, but within limits. The price justifies the quality. I recommend it from the bottom of my heart!

Nespresso Arpeggio Decaffeinato

Dolce Gusto Cappuccino

Italian coffee with a rich aroma of strong espresso and a delicate creamy taste. Cappuccino from Dolce Gusto is an undoubted example of a classic that will captivate all coffee lovers. Due to the blend of high-quality Arabica beans from South America, the drink has a rich taste. The high-pressure coffee machine produces the perfect Italian cappuccino with velvety foam. One package contains 16 capsules (8 capsules with ground coffee and 8 with milk). Milk capsules contain milk powder, emulsifier and sugar.

Ratings on the topic: Review of 7 popular sinks: advantages and disadvantages of the best models, their cost

Price: from 280 to 610 rubles.

• dense milk foam;
• rich Arabica aroma;
• creamy taste of the drink.

• few capsules (enough for 8 cups).

Perfect capsules. I didn't notice any cons, the coffee was great. Good and rich taste, bright aroma, density of coffee - everything is perfect. I didn't expect such a delicious cappuccino from a capsule. There are 16 products in the package, but they are enough for 8 mugs (8 capsules with ground coffee and 8 with milk). The foam turns out dense and does not settle. I am pleased. Now I can enjoy cappuccino at any time of the day or night.

Dolce Gusto Cappuccino

Tassimo Latte Macchiato Caramel

A three-layer coffee and milk combination with velvety foam with notes of caramel. Due to the updated recipe with condensed cream, the texture is very airy and creamy. Each package contains 8 capsules with ground coffee and 8 capsules with a dairy product. The latte is prepared at the touch of a button and comes out with a large cup of 285 milliliters.

Price: from 229 to 1045 rubles.

• rich caramel taste;
• the drink is not bitter;
• large volume of drink at the exit (285 ml).

• few capsules (enough for 8 cups).

Only Tassimo capsules are suitable for my coffee machine, fortunately there are many of them on the market! From simple coffee to hot chocolate. I love and respect them for their rich assortment. I like these capsules, I’m buying them for the fourth time. They don't get bored. Pleasant taste and aroma. I usually drink 1 cup a day, but sometimes I feel like drinking a second one. The taste is too rich, you want to enjoy it. If you haven’t tried Tassimo drinks yet, then run to the store and buy them! I recommend it from the bottom of my heart.

Tassimo Latte Macchiato Caramel

Cremesso Lungo Caramello

A composition of selected Arabica beans from Africa gives the drink a harmonious aroma. It is ideal for making longo coffee and latte macchiato due to its roast level and mild aroma. Cremesso coffee varieties are certified according to the UTZ program aimed at achieving high social and environmental standards in production. The drink is safe and does not contain any impurities or harmful elements.

Price: from 469 to 550 rubles.

• soft caramel taste;
• rich coffee aroma;
• UTZ certificate (does not contain impurities or harmful additives).

• difficult to find in stores.

A pleasant and delicate tasting drink with notes of caramel. I often make lattes; these capsules are ideal for similar purposes because they have low intensity and a sweet aftertaste. In general, I love coffee, I try different capsules, but for now I’ve settled on these. They are very easy to use. You press a button and you get a flavorful drink. No need to cook in a Turk, wait a long time. Everyone should have capsule coffee machines at home! I don’t know how I used to live without this wonderful device.

Cremesso Lungo Caramello

Nespresso Envivo Lungo

A stunning blend of Arabica from India and Robusta from Mexico, created for the purpose of making large volume coffee. The drink reveals a dense texture and bright taste. There are sweet woody notes and a caramel flavor.

Adding a little cream will reveal the delicate aroma of gingerbread. Bitterness - 4 out of 5, sourness - 1 out of 5.

Price: from 320 to 470 rubles.

• aroma of caramel and gingerbread;
• rich taste;
• bright coffee aroma.

• There is a slight bitterness in the aftertaste.

I am a coffee maniac and can drink coffee 24 hours a day. Nespresso capsules are incomparable to any other brand. They are unique! Sold in boxes of 10 pieces. I drink 1 cup a day, so I’m completely satisfied with the price. Buying a cafe is much more expensive. I like to try different capsules, but these are my favorite so far.

Nespresso Envivo Lungo

Lavazza Intenso

Lavazza Blue Espresso Intenso coffee capsules are the ideal blend for strong espresso with thick, viscous crema. A blend of Brazilian Arabica and South Asian Robusta creates a magnificent and harmonious taste and aroma of the presented coffee. The capsules are only compatible with Lavazza Blue capsule coffee machines.

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Price: from 2900 to 3200 rub.

• bitter chocolate taste;
• rich coffee aroma;
• dense milk foam.

• not found.

Lavazza Intenso is a classic, nothing new or exclusive, but the foam is just perfect. I recommend it to lovers of strong espresso that will wake up even the dead. A mixture of Arabica and Robusta is much more interesting than both of these varieties separately.

Lavazza Intenso

Paulig Classic

In order to create the Paulig Classic coffee blend, the technology of separate roasting of each variety is used; this process makes it possible to maximize their taste characteristics and complex aroma. Espresso made using these coffee capsules contains an aftertaste with notes of truffle chocolate, rum and cinnamon, and the mild strength allows you to enjoy it not only in the morning, but throughout the day. Coffee pods fit the Paulig capsule system (K-fee). Each capsule is designed for one serving of espresso or lungo.

Price: from 480 to 550 rubles.

• composition of 100% Arabica;
• aftertaste with notes of truffle chocolate, rum and cinnamon;
• no bitterness.

• not found.

Fine, classic espresso from elite Arabica varieties. Tasty, strong, rich, aromatic, nothing more is needed. It’s convenient to use capsules; I make sure that I always have a supply at home and at work. The grind is a bit coarse for my liking, but otherwise the coffee is excellent.

Paulig Classic