Compatible capsules let you choose from many Italian roasters for the same machine. This guide covers the five things to check, and how our brands compare, so you can pick with confidence.
1. Check your machine
The capsules on capsucup.com that say Original Line fit Nespresso® Original Line machines* such as Essenza, Pixie, CitiZ, Inissia, Lattissima and Creatista. They do not fit Vertuo™ machines, which use a different capsule and barcode system. For office machines we carry Gimoka pods for Nespresso® Professional*, and for drip-style brewers we carry K-Cup® compatible pods*.
2. Aluminum or plastic capsules
- Aluminum is a strong barrier against oxygen and light, which keeps coffee fresh, and it is recyclable where local programs accept it. See our recycling guide. Shop aluminum capsules.
- Plastic (polypropylene) capsules are sealed for freshness and usually cost less per cup.
3. Intensity and roast
Intensity describes body, roast and bitterness on a simple scale. As a rule of thumb: 6–8 is smooth and balanced, 9–10 is full-bodied, 11 and up is bold and dark. If you drink cappuccino or latte, a higher intensity carries better through milk.
- Espressoro (USDA Organic, aluminum): Oro Ristretto 7, Oro Dolce 8, Oro Intenso 9, Oro Bianco 10, Oro Forte 12.
- Espresso Italia (Gruppo Gimoka, aluminum line): Tierras de Colombia 7, Supremo 9, Ristretto 11, Crema Oro 12.
- Keriko Cremosito (USDA Organic, Cuban style): intensity 11.
- Capsucup Premium (Rainforest Alliance certified, aluminum): five blends from intensity 6 to 12.
4. Certifications
Look for third-party certifications on the pack rather than vague claims. Espressoro and Keriko are certified USDA Organic and OU Kosher; Capsucup Premium is Rainforest Alliance certified.
5. Price per cup
Compare price per capsule, not price per box. On capsucup.com every product shows its price per cup, standard shipping is free on every order, and Subscribe & Save takes another 10% off. The Mystery Box and variety packs are the easiest way to try several blends before you commit.
Our quick picks
- Best for milk drinks: Espressoro Oro Bianco or Espresso Italia Crema Oro.
- Best everyday espresso: Espresso Italia Supremo.
- Best organic: any Espressoro Oro blend.
- Best value: Capsucup Mystery Box, from 20¢ a cup.
- No caffeine: Espresso Italia Soave Decaf, or our specialty drinks such as Cupella hot chocolate.
Still unsure? Our blend quiz matches you in four questions.
