Espresso and coffee often start from the same beans. What makes them different is how the water meets the coffee: the pressure, the grind, the time and the amount of water. Here is a simple guide.
How espresso is made
An espresso machine forces hot water, at about 9 bar of pressure, through a small dose of finely ground coffee in roughly 25 seconds. The result is a short, concentrated shot (about 1 to 1.5 oz) topped with crema, the golden foam made of coffee oils and gases. A capsule machine does the same job with a pre-dosed, sealed capsule, so every shot is consistent.
How brewed coffee is made
Drip, pour-over, French press and K-Cup® brewers* use gravity or steeping at normal pressure. The grind is coarser, the contact time is longer and there is far more water, usually 8 oz or more. The cup is lighter-bodied, with no crema.
The main differences
- Pressure: espresso uses high pressure; brewed coffee does not.
- Grind: espresso is fine, almost like powder; brewed coffee is medium to coarse.
- Strength: espresso is more concentrated per ounce. A full mug of brewed coffee can still contain as much caffeine as a single espresso, or more, because it is a much bigger serving.
- Texture: espresso is syrupy with crema; brewed coffee is lighter and thinner.
- Roast: espresso blends are often roasted medium to dark for body and sweetness, but any roast can be pulled as espresso.
Espresso drinks you can make at home
With a capsule machine you can pull a ristretto (a shorter, more intense shot), a classic espresso or a lungo (a longer shot). Add steamed milk for a cappuccino, latte or a Cuban-style cortadito.
Which capsules to try
- Bold and dark: Espressoro Oro Forte (intensity 12) or Keriko Cremosito (intensity 11).
- Balanced: Espresso Italia Supremo (intensity 9) or Espressoro Oro Dolce (intensity 8).
- Smooth and bright: Espresso Italia Tierras de Colombia, 100% Arabica (intensity 7).
- Prefer a big mug? Capsubox pods for K-Cup® brewers*.
Not sure where to start? Take our 60-second blend quiz. Every order ships free in the US.
