Maybe you can’t express how much you love coffee. Or maybe you just need a latte to start the day.
Regardless of your relationship to caffeine, everyone is pretty familiar with the drink. And if you’re like us, you love the newest and best coffee appliances on the market, such as French presses, cold brew coffee makers and coffee grinders.
More recently, Nespresso and Keurig machines have gained momentum.
Although they are often placed in the same bucket, the Nespresso and the Keurig are really quite different. Everything from models, brews, prices and pods vary. Still, not everyone knows which one to buy.
So, is the Nespresso or the Keurig better? Which is the most profitable? What does everyone do?
Below, we drink many cups of coffee and test Nespresso and Keurig machines. In no time, you’ll find the perfect coffee maker for your caffeine needs.
Quick Look at Nespresso vs. Keurig
Features | Nespresso | Keurig |
Types of models | 2 lines and 4 models | 50+ templates |
Pricing | $169 to $209 | $80 to $295 |
guarantee | 1 year | N / A |
Prices for capsules / pods | About $0.80 per capsule | About $0.50 per pod |
Brew | Espresso with a cream finish | Regular coffee with a flat finish |
What is a Nespresso machine?
A Nespresso machine is similar to your everyday single-serve electric coffee maker, as it uses capsules or pods. However, it won’t brew a typical cup of coffee but an espresso, an Italian coffee brewing method with a crema finish.
Nespresso machines are also available in two “lines”: the OriginalLine and the VertuoLine. The main difference? The VertuoLine offers a full range of cup sizes, while the OriginalLine offers traditional espresso portions. There are four machine styles in total across the two ranges.
Each machine has a used capsule container, auto shut-off features, a heat-up time of less than 20 seconds and a removable drip tray.
The machines range from $169 to $209.
Shop Nespresso machines
What is a Keurig machine?
You’re probably most familiar with a Keurig, as these machines gained popularity many years ago.
Essentially, the Keurig machine uses K-Cup pods to brew regular coffee with a flat finish, and more recently, tea, hot chocolate, and cappuccinos.
Keurigs now come in over 50 different models, making finding your coffee maker of choice even more personal.
Each machine features auto-shutoff capabilities, a heat-up time of less than 60 seconds, and a removable drip tray.
The machines range from $80 to $295.
Shop Keurig Appliances



How do Nespresso and Keurig vary in pods?
With different machines come different pods.
The Nespresso can only accept branded capsules, which can be purchased in all areas. Retailers include Amazon, Walmart, Target, Nespresso site and more. Flavors include Chocolate Fudge, Vanilla Custard Pie (our favorite), Caramel Cookie and more. Each capsule rings in at around $0.80 each.
Buy Nespresso capsules



Likewise, the Keurig only takes K-cups, which can also be purchased at the same stores. However, Keurig has partnered with other well-known brands such as Dunkin’ Donuts, The Original Donut Shop, Green Mountain and more. A single K-cup will cost you around $0.50 each.
Shop Keurig pods



How do Nespresso and Keurig vary in infusion?
As discussed earlier, these two machines offer very different brews.
The Nespresso prepares an espresso and can even make a cup of coffee depending on the model chosen. A Keurig makes regular coffee with tea, hot chocolate, and cappuccinos, but the espresso isn’t on the table.



Is Nespresso or Keurig better?
Here’s how we see it: a Nespresso is a complement to any coffee-lover’s home. First and foremost, get a standard coffee maker of your choice, which may or may not be a Keurig.
Once you’ve locked down a standard coffee maker, lean into Nespresso enjoyment.
If you’re looking for an everyday coffee maker, the Keurig is for you. If you’re a bit of a coffee connoisseur or already own a standard coffee maker, you’ll appreciate the Nespresso. Or you can do what we did, which is buy one of each, because they really offer two completely different drinks.
To help you determine the best machine for you, we’ve created a simple grid to follow below.
Better performance | Nespresso |
Better quality and reliability | Nespresso |
The most versatile | Keurig |
The most profitable | Keurig |
Easiest to use | Keurig |
Check New York Post Shopping section for more content.