Jump to:
Nespresso and Keurig are both industry leaders when it comes to home-based coffee and espresso machines that use pod-based systems.
Nespresso is by far the most popular option on the market when it comes to pod-based espresso machines, while the Keurig company leads the way in pod-based traditional coffee machines.
Both companies offer a wide variety of different models to suit the needs of various coffee and espresso enthusiasts, and models of both machines range from simple and straightforward to high-end and intricate.
So which machine is better? We will take a closer look at Nespresso Vs Keurig pod-based machines weighing the pro and cons of each so you can choose which is best for you.
Things To Consider Before Buying a Pod-Based Machine
When it comes to choosing a new pod-based coffee or espresso machine for your home, there are a number of different factors that need to be considered.
We have hand-selected four of the most important factors when shopping for a new machine and highlighted them here to simplify the shopping process.
Price and Budget
When it comes to just about any significant home appliance purchase, the overall price of the item is one of the first things that many people consider. Pod-based coffee and espresso machines range from simple to intricate, and there are many different price points.
One of the best first steps that should be taken when shopping for a new pod-based machine for your home is to decide on a set budget. Espresso and coffee pods both come at a considerable cost, so it is important to have enough money left in your budget for high-quality pods.
Those who find themselves enjoying more simple drinks most often like black coffee and shots of espresso should consider entry-level machines. These options don’t come with all the bells and whistles but are considerably more affordable and smaller than more high-end options.
Style and Aesthetics
The overall look and aesthetic of a coffee or espresso machine is another factor that needs to be weighed to ensure a proper fit in your home. It is a good idea to take a close look around your kitchen and determine what the overall interior design theme is.
Some espresso machines are designed to be “eye-catching,” and feature metallic finishes with prominently displayed features like integrated grinders and milk frothers. These are the best options for open kitchens that are in need of a centerpiece.
There are also many coffee and espresso machines that are designed with a more modern and minimalistic design theme. These machines “hide” their features inside of the body, and usually feature sleek and boxy profiles.
Design and Features
It is important to take a close look at the coffee and espresso drinking habits of those in your household when choosing between different machines, as not all options are suitable for the needs of everyone.
Simple and straightforward machines are usually the most affordable, smallest, and easiest options to operate. These are great for those who enjoy black coffee and shots of espresso, but not good fits for people who enjoy steamed milk beverages like lattes and cappuccinos.
Some of the most high-end options on the market are a bit larger compared to their more simple counterparts, but the added size is necessary to accommodate more features. Top-tier features like automatic milk frothers and touchscreen technology set the top options apart from the competition.
Size and Weight
The overall size of a machine is very important when it comes to fitting into your kitchen, and not properly measuring the intended area for a new machine is one of the most common mistakes people make during the shopping process.
One of the best ways to avoid any confusion or mix-ups is to measure the length, depth, and height of the area where you plan to place your new machine, especially if you are looking to store your unit under a cabinet/countertop. Keep these measurements on hand throughout the browsing process, as you will find yourself referencing them often.
While the overall weight of a machine may not be a very important factor for some people, there are others who either travel with their coffee machines or place them in a cupboard between uses that prefer the convenience of more lightweight options.
Nespresso vs Keurig
Nespresso and Keurig are two of the top names in the espresso and coffee industry, and between the two of them, they virtually own the market when it comes to pod-based home espresso and coffee machines.
Nespresso Machine
- Item Package Dimension: 15.3L x 12.2W x 10.9H inches
- Item Package Weight - 11 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - COFFEE MAKER
Nespresso is the top name in pod-based espresso machines, and they contract out the actual production of their machines to companies like Delonghi and Breville.
Some of the top espresso companies in the world sell their espresso grounds in the Nespresso pod format, giving customers a deep list of options each morning.
Pros:
- There is a full line of machines to suit the needs of many different people
- Nespresso pods are widely available at many of the top grocers and retailers
- Water refills are less frequent compared to coffee machines
Cons:
- Not a good option for fans of simple traditional coffee drinks
- Espresso pods tend to be more expensive than coffee pods
- Serious espresso enthusiasts prefer the taste of traditional espresso
Keurig Machine
When it comes to pod-based machines that make high-quality coffee rather than espresso, Keurig is the industry leader.
There is a wide variety of different Keurig machines to choose from, and top brands like Starbucks and Dunkin sell their coffee blends in compatible K Cups.
Pros:
- The top producer of pod-based coffee machines on the market
- A deep list of different brands and flavor options to choose from
- Can also make hot tea drinks and hot chocolate beverages
Cons:
- Some serious coffee enthusiasts say the quality is not up to par
- Machines require reloading and refilling often
- Descaling is also regularly required depending on water quality
Alternatives to Nespresso and Keurig Machines
While Nespresso and Keurig are both industry leaders, they are not the only options when it comes to pod-based coffee and espresso machines.
There are a number of smaller companies on the market that have designed machines intended to compete with Nespresso and Keurig.
1. Chefman
Chefman is another company that produces pod-based machines, and they currently offer everything from high-end pod-based espresso machines to simple pod-based coffee machines. All of their machines are priced significantly lower compared to their larger brand-name competitors.
The Chefman InstaCoffee is one of the best options on the market when it comes to simple and straightforward machines designed for one person or occasional use. It is very small and sleek and features a design allowing for the use of tall coffee mugs and insulated tumblers.
When it comes to high-end automatic espresso machines, Chefman has designed a feature-filled option that is much more affordable than the competition. The Chefman Espresso Machine features an automatic milk frother and automatically constructs a variety of different drinks.
2. Bruvi
Bruvi is a California-based company that has created its own line of machines as well as its own delivery system called “B-Pods.” These B-Pods come in a wide variety of flavors and styles, making the machine capable of brewing espresso, coffee, and hot tea beverages.
The Bruvi Coffee Brewer is the Brevi company’s flagship machine, and it features a unique design that makes operations very simple each morning. It uses a touchscreen display that makes it very easy for customers to customize their drinks in a number of different ways.
3. Lavazza
Lavazza is one of the top espresso companies in the world, and it is viewed as a status symbol by some serious espresso enthusiasts. They produce everything from espresso machines to their own roasts, which are available in bean form as well as in pre-loaded pods.
The Lavazza Classy Plus is a high-end single-serve espresso machine by the Lavazza company that is capable of producing high-end and delicious espresso using pre-loaded pods.
It fits well into small spaces and features a beautiful design that blends in well with many different kitchens.
Nespresso vs Keurig – Final Thoughts
When it comes to home-based espresso and coffee machines, pod-based systems offer the ultimate convenience each morning. They allow for simple operation and easy cleanup, as there are no loose espresso or coffee grounds to deal with.
Nespresso is the industry leader when it comes to pod-based home espresso machines, while Keurig is the top company when it comes to pod-based coffee machines. Each company offers a wide variety of different models which are designed to accommodate the needs of a wide variety of different coffee and espresso enthusiasts.
While the Nespresso and Keurig companies are the two top companies on the market when it comes to pod-based systems, there are many smaller companies who have designed similar machines geared towards a lower price point. Some machines are even capable of producing both coffee and espresso beverages, leading to unparalleled flexibility.
