Coffee Pods and Capsules: What’s the Difference and Which Brews Better?
If you love coffee, you’ve probably heard about single-serve coffee pods and capsules. But what exactly sets them apart? And more importantly, does one make a better cup of coffee than the other? Let’s break it down so you can decide which option suits your coffee routine best.
The Different Types of Coffee Pods & Capsules
Single-serve coffee has evolved into several brewing formats, each designed for different machines and preferences. Here’s a quick guide to the most common options on the market today.
E.S.E. Paper Pods (Easy Serving Espresso)
E.S.E. Pods, or Easy Serving Espresso pods, are pre-measured, single-serve coffee portions wrapped in two layers of filter paper, similar to a tea bag. Each pod contains about 7 grams of ground coffee and is designed for use with semi-automatic and select automatic espresso machines.
Why coffee lovers choose E.S.E. pods:
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Traditional espresso-style extraction
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Balanced, smooth flavor profile
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Fully compostable paper filter
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No plastic or aluminum waste
Caffè Borbone E.S.E. pods are sealed in a protective atmosphere using triple-layer aluminum film to preserve freshness, aroma, and flavor until brewing.
Pods deliver a more classic espresso experience with a lighter texture and delicate crema, thanks to the natural water flow through the paper filter.
➤ Shop ESE paper pods
➤ Shop Didi Espresso Machine
Nespresso® Original Compatible Capsules
Nespresso® Original capsules are aluminum or plastic capsules designed for high-pressure extraction. They produce a bold espresso with a thick crema and intense aroma.
Why coffee lovers choose Nespresso® capsules:
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Rich, concentrated espresso
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Thick crema
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Quick, push-button brewing
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Compact machines for home and office
Caffè Borbone plastic capsules are sealed in triple-layer aluminum film to lock in freshness and preserve the coffee’s full aroma.
➤ Shop our Nespresso® Original compatible capsules (aluminum or plastic)
Lavazza EP (Espresso Point)-Compatible Capsules
Lavazza EP (Espresso Point) capsules are another popular capsule format designed for older Lavazza Espresso Point machines.
What makes Lavazza EP unique:
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Traditional Italian espresso experience
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Works with specific Lavazza EP brewers
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Offers a range of flavor profiles
Caffè Borbone also offers Espresso Point compatible capsules, bringing Italian espresso traditions to EP users who want bold flavor and classic crema.
➤ Shop Lavazza EP compatible capsules
K-Cup (Keurig®) Compatible Pods
K-Cups are designed for Keurig®-style brewers and are the most common single-serve format in the U.S. They brew a larger cup of drip coffee rather than a traditional espresso shot.
Why coffee lovers choose K-Cups:
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Larger cup size
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Familiar brewing system
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Great for drip-style coffee drinkers
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Ideal for homes and offices
Caffè Borbone K-Cup Compatible Pods bring Italian-roasted coffee to the convenience of the Keurig® system.
Which One Makes Better Coffee?
It’s the age-old question—but the answer is subjective! Both pods and capsules can deliver an excellent cup of coffee, but the quality ultimately depends on the coffee itself and how it’s handled from start to finish.
E.S.E. Pods are perfect for lovers of balanced, more traditional espresso and eco-conscious brewing.
Nespresso® Original Capsules offer bold, intense espresso with thick crema.
Lavazza EP Capsules are ideal if you want a classic Italian espresso profile with the traditional pressures and extraction style of EP machines.
K-Cups are best if you want convenience and larger cups of coffee with easier brewing.
If sustainability matters most, E.S.E. paper pods are the top choice thanks to their fully compostable design. If intense aroma and crema are priorities, metal-sealed capsules like Nespresso® or Lavazza EP shine.
Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong with high-quality coffee. That’s why Caffè Borbone puts so much care into every step of the process—from growing and harvesting to roasting and packaging. Our master roasters have perfected the art of coffee, ensuring that every sip reflects the passion and tradition behind it.
Why Quality Matters
Excellent coffee comes from premium-quality beans handled with care. From careful bean selection to expert roasting and packaging, every Caffe Borbone pod and capsule is crafted to deliver the true taste of Italian coffee. Our master roasters have perfected the art of espresso, ensuring that every sip reflects the passion and tradition behind our brand.
So which coffee format is the best? The answer is simple: The best coffee is the one you enjoy most. Whether you reach for an ESE pod or a capsule, what matters most is the quality of the coffee inside. With Caffè Borbone, you’re guaranteed a delicious, authentic Italian coffee experience, every time.
