Reusable Nespresso Pods | Better Coffee, Less Money?

[@LifestyleLab_]

Reusable Nespresso Original Pods: geni.us/xbBBSXb Nespresso Original Machine: geni.us/wAtjBG Nespresso VERTUO Reusable Lids: geni.us/5vHodyC Try our coffee! geni.us/4AAmhpj (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)

[@annakissed3226]

I just leaving a note to apologise for not subscribing on my main 🙃 (sorry SwiftKey offered me that emoji for some reason & I just had to select it) main watch channel, because I am limited in the amount of subscriptions I can have. But seemingly because I comment here I am allowed more subscriptions, so I have subscribed here. But your going to get almost zero watch time from me! But thank you, thank you, thank you for the video. I will have to see if I can buy these things in the UK because my wife will love them, even if its me who is going to probably have to make them up for her. Now if you could tell me how to make an expresso from Dowe Egbarts instant coffee - you'll instantly go on the main channel subscriber list! I'm utterly addicted to Dowe Egbarts Medium Roast instant coffee. I make huge 2 litre pots of it & add lots of lo-salt so I get both my potassium & sodium chloride & I add my L something Magnesium (only ~$200 a Kilo). And then because I have ADHD (and take speed to relax) coffee is an absolutely wonderful bedtime drink that helps me off to a good night's sleep!

[@LogitechXibanga]

the only reason that coffee pods are use its for convenience, put one in press the button drink the coffee, this just ruins the whole purpose, you pretty much do the same thing with a normal coffee machine just have more work and more expensive, but a normal machine pour the coffee powder of your choice drink the coffeee and throw away the used powder 🤦‍♂

[@shee_travels6314]

😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😅😅😅

[@Bill_tyler]

Awesome! Thank you

[@61hink]

I own eight of these stainless steel capsules now. A lot of commenters seem to believe that filling them is difficult or time consuming. Actually, it's a breeze once you get the hang of it. I can probably fill six capsules with freshly ground coffee in about two minutes. Groggy me appreciates being able to whip up a 3-capsule cappuccino the next two mornings in no time at all. I roast my own coffee too so I'd be surprised if it even costs me $.05 per capsule.

[@antonyfu79]

I just started using metal reusable pods (metal lid as well) on my Nespresso Vertoline. After several attempts, I found both the taste and color were sooooo light. I tried to fill the pod half full or very full, press the powder gentally or very hard, and made no difference. Any tricks for metal pods?

[@61hink]

@@antonyfu79 I don't use Vertuoline, I have the classic pods. Is your coffee finely ground enough? I would suggest playing around with that because, for me, finding the exact optimal grind was key. Maybe open a Nespresso -branded pod and try to mimic the grind and amount of coffee.

[@antonyfu79]

@@61hink Thank you for your advice! Many ppl say try not to grind too fine and don't fill too full as the wholes into which steam is injected are tiny and less efficient. I am going to play with it for several more days and let you know if I get better results.

[@dawill5217]

@@antonyfu79 Did it get better?

[@antonyfu79]

@@dawill5217 the conclusion in short: worked but still cannot match the taste and crema compared to the original pod. After dozens of tries, I would say 1st, don’t grind too fine. 2nd, don’t over-fill/over-press. Press gently rather than hard would extract more. However, with same level of filling, original pod makes darker, richer flavored coffee. I would say 30%-40% better than this steel pod.

[@pbakai182]

I got a free Nespresso base machine from my place of work years ago - and quickly found and bought these same reusable pods with stickers. I only used this system for about 6 months, but it got me into the coffee world, and I bought a french press and electric burr grinder to replace. This is a great start into the world of coffee for sure!

[@LifestyleLab_]

Love the progression!

[@smaskell]

I did this for about a year. Glad someone is finally talking about it! it works surprisingly well. I ended up getting a real espresso machine tho. may as well go all in

[@julioconti3870]

realmente algo muy útil, parece que los fabricantes deberían haber lanzado algo como esto primero, pero se fueron por el camino equivocado

[@dani23dani85]

which nespresso machine did you get?

[@smaskell]

@@dani23dani85 breville pixie

[@smaskell]

@@jerryx2000 at the end of the day you're tasting the beans more than anything. If you grind appropriately, you will taste what you should taste. However, it's certainly not going to be as concentrated so the consistency is different. True espresso does also extract a little differently so you can notice a difference but not super significant

[@adhipramanahalim3296]

​@@smaskelldid you grind the coffee medium fine or fine?

[@viridis1725]

I have three different reusable pods: two metal ones (from ICafilas and WayCap) and a third plastic one. As many others already found, coffee gets weaker than the Nespresso pods. I have been trying to improve the quality of the coffee I get and here are some lessons I learnt: 1. Nespresso pods include a paper layer at the entry point of the slide to probably slow down the water flux and so to improve extraction. In the reusable pods, water could permeate the coffee too fast and therefore under-extract. I will try to add it and see the results 2. No hard pressure, otherwise the coffee will have a "burned" taste 3. Better some stratified gently-pressured coffee layers (maybe three?) than a unique layer. 4. The end-point aluminium foil is drilled by water pressure. A metal cover could potentially speed up the process a bit too much. To overcome this problem, try to stop the extraction for a few seconds and then restart. Curious to collaborate with other enthusiastic users :)

[@tummy_fritters]

I think this would be a good step for someone who started with pods but wanted to delve deeper into the hobby. They could fiddle about with getting it to work right without spending a fortune, then decide if they want to go further. If they did stop there, at least they would be able to avoid giving more money to Nestle

[@OWK000]

Now I understand. Well, you could get a different hobby.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Hey Pia, how about letting up on the unnecessarily judgy comments? Seems like you’re on a bit of a roll

[@OWK000]

@@LifestyleLab_ Don't take it personal and you will be ok.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Don’t live life with a chip on your shoulder and so will you :)

[@OWK000]

@@LifestyleLab_ Maybe it is because your approach is so wordy and de-void of any good info that you think people are being critical of you. I was actually criticising the machine. But just now I watched James Hoffmans take on the Nespresso machine which I found fascinating. I would still never buy one of those, but at least it was interesting.

[@fredkawabata2306]

I have a metal pod. But I found that removing the foil and coffee from a commercial pod works too with the foil covering. Since the commercial pods are slightly larger than the metal pods you can get a bit more coffee in them. Reusing the aluminum pods don't last forever but long enough to be a useful alternative.

[@innajankovic1749]

We've had these pods for about 4 years - best things ever!!!! A lot of comments about going full on and buying an espresso machine - and that's totally valid, but for renters or travellers, having a machine you can take anywhere and have espresso quality coffee is a double bonus. We consistently get a good crema and unburnt, strong, tangy coffee (depends on the bean, but mostly) Highly recommend this - Yes, you can get 22mL of coffee out of the pod and a lot of times its better than what so called 'Baristas'will charge you $4 for

[@hansolo3482]

What grind did you use? I'm using a manual burr grinder and usually use the 2nd to finest setting on mine for aeropress but just got a used Nespresso for cheap and planned to refill some of the original Nespresso pods. Might need to order the metal refillable pods from this video though.

[@chrishamilton4640]

I have used the pods for a year and a half. There is a tip that gets these to work a bit better. Take regular ground coffee and put a little in first then add your espresso grind and fill the rest of the way.

[@DipsyHemanshu]

What happens if you use your own grind 100%

[@chrishamilton4640]

Should work fine. Just put a course ground in first then add your fine espresso grind.

[@links-awakening]

Amounts of coffee in the Nespresso capsule vary according to type, as does the grind particulate size - this determines the brew and extraction time. 4g / smaller brewing chamber is quite a limiting factor - a bean to cup machine might be a better consideration.

[@MrBoxxed]

2 to 3 pods per cup, making 8 to 12grams per cup. Works out ok if you move over to the reusable pods. Then they are just like small baskets.

[@dalbriggss]

Each time you make a pod and you say this is a pain, say to yourself (I am saving money here, and there isn’t any trash).🥰 I am budget minded, so this works for me.

[@smaskell]

I found it helpful to do a bit of a preinfusion. turn it on, wait for a sec, and then turn it off for maybe 10-15 seconds. you can figure out when based on the sound. you'll learn pretty quick.

[@smaskell]

this lets me grind finer and not choke the machine

[@LifestyleLab_]

@@smaskell Thanks for sharing!

[@dcuccia]

I was wondering the same thing. Going to give this...a shot.

[@OnlyThe1Son]

I think Nesresso is fine .. I mean growing up as kids our parents always drank cheap coffee from the super market, boil some water and mix in a couple teaspoons of coffee, that was how our parents drank coffee at home. supermarkets are still full of these types coffees and millions of people continue to buy them and drink it this way everyday/ so for them, nespresso would be a more fancy way to drink coffee. nothing wrong with it at all as their taste buds are suited for this type of beverage. we have to remember the majority of the world do not have refined tastes. store bought bread, cheap jarred coffee, cheap chocolate blocks, cheap ice cream, frozen foods, etc trust me when I say, for the majority of people out there a NESPRESSO machine is a huge step up for like 80% of coffee drinkers out there...

[@alanhamacher7263]

I bought these, and some fresh espresso ground coffee, to use in my Breville Essenza mini at work. And they’re great! thank you!

[@alanhamacher7263]

FYI, I use a Rocket Mozzafiato at home ☕️

[@Schmiddis_focus]

I like the underlining of not judging others making coffee just because being a coffee-science-nerd makes you think your coffee is the best (I personally think so). However the only thing I will always judge is the waste nespresso capsules produce - even those reusable ones have foil covers that can be avoided with so many other options of making coffee, that are almost as convenient as putting in a capsule and pushing a button. I think people should start to think about that.

[@yandeslongchamps]

I personnaly use a pressurized basket at work because I don't want to bring a grinder. So I do preground my coffee at home. I do think it is a good compromise.

[@zakariakhamees]

Plastic waste is unavoidable

[@Schmiddis_focus]

@@zakariakhamees is it tho? with capsules yes it is..

[@derkoekje]

@@Schmiddis_focus even if you’re buying your own specialty coffee it’ll come with an often metal or plastic-lined bag along with a plastic pressure seal.

[@Schmiddis_focus]

@@derkoekje sure, something has to seal it up unfortunately.. but those capsules are still more waste i guess :/

[@largol33t12]

I use an adapter on my K-cups machine to save money and put whatever brand I want in my machine. The coffee tastes great and cleanup is easy. I just save the grounds and scatter them on the grass as fertilizer. The dead spot on the lawn disappeared in only a month!

[@marker2468]

When I bought my Keurig so many years ago I used up the k-cups that came with it and never used them again. I bought the re-usable K-cups and used them since I gave the machine away. Re-usable Nespresso pods make sense but previous comments on the prep time for this particular machine raise a very good point.

[@ST4RF4CE88]

I think that only takes from the convenience of the pods, at this point having a normal espresso machine seems more convinient.

[@GrammerPancreas]

But also more expensive. Quality espresso machines cost a lot, and a cheap one will likely produce worse coffee than this would. They're also a lot harder to use and dial-in, too. While you still need to dial in a coffee shot this way, it's a lot less finicky.

[@louisd95714]

My opinion is this. If one is getting a Nespresso machine for the intent of using their own coffee, I cannot see a stark difference between this and a dedicated espresso machine. It probably takes the same amount of time filling the reusable pods, and just like a dedicated espresso machine, YMMV with the results. I see the main difference between this and an espresso machine is the cleanup involved afterward. As for me, clean up takes no longer than five minutes on my BBP. But, if it takes more time to fill the reusable pods vs filing a portafilter, then the amount of time could be virtually the same. With that said, I would prefer using a dedicated espresso machine, but if I'm in a hurry, have one of these Nespresso machines also available for the pore filled pods.

[@procrastinator1842]

Not to mention this refillable thing can only hold 4g of grounds. That's about 1/3 of a proper coffee...what a joke...

[@mcst6969]

I using a dolce gusto machine with a reusable pod and it's much easier than the nespresso system, because you can close it's built-in lid. Also you can use a paper filter if your coffee is a bit too course. I'm drinking the pellini n46 now and it's great because it's pre-grinded for leaver machines, so the flow is slow enough without choking the machine!

[@antonyvasiliou1456]

You have to also consider if prepping them is worth your time. The point of Nespresso is fast and easy, relatively good tasting coffee. By eliminating the convenience factor is making it not worth your time and money, considering that you also have to experiment for the right grind every time you change your coffee. Considering the fact that these pods also cost anywhere from 10 to 26 dollars, when are you going to see money saving if you consider the time and effort you put as well imo it's going to be a long time for maybe very little savings short term.

[@nur_aryani]

each pod of Nespresso coffee costs about $0.80 > taking the most expensive as you wrote @ $26, it takes 32 shots to break even per reusable pod. Buy 4 pods, it takes about 120 shots. I personally drinks 3 to 4 shots per day with my husband > so it'll take about 30 to 40 days of drinking coffee to cover the costs. After that, I'm saving about $0.60 for each shot of coffee I drink every day. Works to saving about $72 per month. That's a lot when you factor it over a year and more when you have regular guests who drinks coffee too.

[@WJC1981]

Just prep them for the day the night before

[@SureFeelsGood]

nespresso is fast and easy. not good tasting coffee.

[@neuro1996]

People are misunderstanding the difference between each machine thinking this js more expensive thus better... To simply put. You get coffee beans, Grind them into fine powder Run water through it with the attempt of extracting the coffee goods by adjusting to multiple variables such as brewing temperature, amount of yield in and out brewing pressure, grinding coffee at specific grind settings etc... Thats the main concept All machines work with that been in mind. Some machines uses different technology to compensate for negative aspect as a way to reduce price so that everyone can afford and be able to enjoy espresso at home. The only difference between each machine is technique, the time and effort that needs to be put in. And how much experience is needed to master that machine. Some does everything with a click of a button, some needs some sort of distributor tamping using this and that etc... But it doesn't matter if you lack the basic knowledge of making an espresso it would be difficult for you to understand your need therefore not been able to decide on what you want, possibly overpay for something thats beyond your need making it not worth it for you. Maybe your not a coffee nerd or something " I don't mean it as an insult btw dont take offense " I started with 70$ machine, now im running on 500$ machine Bought equipment and stuff.. found myself using only 50% of the stuff i bought, and ive been making better coffee with that 70$ setup that i got.... Because i lacked the skills to make a good espresso from a more delicate machine... Which get us to this point. You don't need fancy stuff to enjoy espresso, as long as you can drink your coffee and be happy with what you got... That is your goal, if you managed to make coffee thats cheaper and taster than coffeeshop coffee then You've already reached the maximum level. Beyond that is a whole different league we talking competition at this point... I kept you for long... So for short.. As long as your coffee is enjoyable to you, that's all that matters!

[@droidfan]

Been using this system for a few years. Definitely agree: not espresso. But, it makes a pretty darn good coffee. I'd say above average (at least for me, I am no barista, just coffee addict). Pod makers will not like this video lol however, this just works. Awesome video. Now, to get some coffee!

[@SureFeelsGood]

what grind of coffee do you need to do? this video doesn't seem to say

[@droidfan]

@@SureFeelsGood Beggars can't be choosers, like they say lol so I use whatever I have available. I've used a fine grind and it has worked well. I imagine that too coarse will simply let the water run through. If you grind your own, it will be trial and error. In my case, I just want a quick way to get better "regular" coffee, so, whatever I have at hand. Sorry for the super vague response.

[@innajankovic1749]

Espresso is possible. Not sure of the type you use, our one we use the 3 point outlet, pack it in well (4 levels of tamp), use a decent coffee (preground or grind your own) and we get, no kidding espresso thats in the 90th percentile in terms of quality. We recently had a store bought Kenyan espresso that was much better, but thats a rare find. Keep trying and you will get espresso out of it

[@droidfan]

@@innajankovic1749 hello coffee lover! I think we use a very similar process. What I meant by saying "not espresso" is that people should not expect a "real" espresso (like from a Gaggia or Breville machine). Now, I do stand by my comment that you will get a better quality coffee than from any regular coffee maker :)

[@FuckOffMyFood]

I'm a caffeine addict as well!

[@DrGaryGreen]

Good video. Getting the proper grind is the tough part. And... my time is worth money and screw this. I used to have an ECM Rocket and commercial burr grinder and now in my lazy old age, Nespresso in the am is good enough. I no longer have a marble top bar in my living room, holding parties several times a year. Sold my system to a guy opening his own cafe. Nespresso, good enough.

[@UniqueSundials]

I loved my Nespresso machine, but it just seemed so wasteful and expensive. I am going to give these a try.

[@ivannightly1919]

been using reusable pods for 7 yrs now save a ton on coffee since a can lasts longer and of course you can pick your brand of coffee

[@shadamholic]

I have an older coffee maker that uses pods & am considering a Nespresso mini. I currently grind my own beans & use a refillable pod daily. It is by far the least expensive cup of coffee. We went to Costa Rica in February & brought coffee back with us. I've loved having the ability to brew it at home. Knowing I can do this with a Nespresso machine makes the buying decision easier. Having to buy pods was tipping me toward not purchasing it.

[@BoardsDarkglasses]

Does a nespresso pod seriously cost 80c to $1 in the USA? Here in Ireland the most expensive pod is about 40c (EU). You can absolutely buy good quality capsules for far less, like 18-20 cents.

[@martinba9629]

Exactly what I thought. But his "4 g are gonna cost you 20ct" is equally weird. That would be nearly 50 EUR per kilo, which really is over the top I think. So I guess his cost savings factor might be correct in the end :-D

[@wolfgaidin]

Yes. Unregulated capitalism is our god and our god is killing us all while making coffee (and healthcare, childcare, education, etc.) overly expensive to boot.

[@VDash-Slesinski]

I just purchased a Cuisinart machine that has a pot, K cup, and Pod option. We love it and are learning how to use our fillable pods and K cups.

[@ThekillingGoku]

I've had a Nespresso machine for ages now. I generally don't actually buy pods from Nespresso though, due to them costing a ton more than the competition. Heck, even other A-brands. They're also, generally speaking, never really 'on sale', as they only ever get sold via their own store. Many other A-brand pods have gotten plenty of 33% to 50% discount runs in the supermarket. Anyway ... a full blown espresso machine wouldn't be something I'm against, after all I like me some good coffee ... it's just something that I can't put anywhere here in the appartment. A huge machine like that would eat up my kitchen's entire workspace, leaving me kinda troubled. I don't have the smallest machine, but a Nespresso machine does the trick well & doesn't take up too much space regardless. So it's a fine compromise. Coffee's still expensive though.

[@mattjacomos2795]

you should check at the flair machines and varia hand burr grinders. They're half the price of a "proper" espresso machine but give a quite reasonable espresso (even compared to the pro barista I use for QC.) . At first they may seem seem labour intensive, but once you get the hang of them you won't go back... Still a messy business but...

[@CL83biker]

I am using the reusable pods as well. I am refilling the pod on top of the coffee can, so the overflow ground will drop back to can.

[@TheManuforest]

That's actually a great idea . I've been experimenting on this and ended up with the same conclusion. Now I'm using my own fav coffee. Thanks for the video , Cheers!!

[@usernumber6]

I really admire how you're down to earth. It's the simplest things, like the hand funnel, that show you understand that not everyone can afford or be willing to invest in more coffee gadgets beyond the machine itself.

[@RiverDanube]

It's a good option and well explained. I wouldn't go to the effort of filling pods all the time and I'd just use a normal coffee machine.

[@jkim972]

I used nespresso and reusable pods for about a year then moved onto real espresso set up. Personally nespresso ended up being more work where I was having to refill 6 pods. Where i just have to pull 2 doubles on my appartamento. So personally for me it saves more time.

[@SureFeelsGood]

what machine do you use now

[@wolfgaidin]

@@SureFeelsGood, they said it is an appartamento, which is a $1900.00 machine and why most of us working poor are looking at a video on how to make Nespresso (fake) espresso less expensive with reusable pods. 😀

[@oliverweichsel3506]

I've been away from the Nespresso capsules for a long time and I've never been interested in filling them myself because the effort is just too much for me. In Germany there is the company "my -cups" (Unicups). Their capsules are aluminum-free and biodegradable. The coffee is organic and tastes better too. And for tea drinkers there are also capsules.

[@ppn7]

Better than nespresso official caps ?

[@oliverweichsel3506]

@@ppn7 In my opinion, yes. But of course everyone has different tastes.

[@runabout76]

I like the idea, but part of why I use the Nespresso machines I have is so I don't have to do the thinking/deciding part of how to make a coffee. I simply select the pod with the origin or flavour I want and coffee appears. I'm not concerned about the waste side thanks to having several Nespresso boutiques near me where I can drop off the pods in their convenient bag to be recycled at the same time as I buy next batch of pods.

[@XPrincess30]

Surely there are pods that just come with a hole on the bottom instead of being smaller?

[@Commander_HW]

I think most people that buy Nespresso machines are like me. We don't want to wake up in the morning and fiddling with all that before having had coffee in our system, just don't have the energy for it. If we really want to fiddle with all that we would have went with the entry level espresso machine with steam wand and all that.

[@technophobian2962]

I think there's two main reasons to have a Nespresso machine - affordability and space. You can make good espresso quite easily (I would say almost as easily as Nespresso) if you have high-end equipment, but it's a very expensive investment. Proper espresso setups also take up a lot of space. If you're in a smaller apartment and you're tight on space it's going to be very frustrating to have everything in such a small space.

[@Hrathen39]

Instead I just stopped consuming caffeine and having the willpower to get through withdrawal... So I avoid the entire issue

[@blzt3206]

Incredibly lazy take. I work 12s in the field for 24 days straight and can make coffee.

[@anniep855]

Refill your pod the night before - presto, you won’t have to “fiddle” in the morning, sleepyhead!

[@michaelenelmar]

Prepare the pods at the evening before and the next morning it's the same as with the plastic ones.

[@kerryb1653]

Thank you for this! I have a Creatista Plus. Love the convenience of the pods with true steamed milk. I have about 10 of these Sealpods pods, if you fill them in one hit, very quick. The great thing about a pod machine is the convenience, and when you get the coffee balance right, anyone can use them. I use two, on the ristretto setting so I get a less diluted shot. When filled correctly, a slower pour is better. Less bitterness, thick crema. I cheat and have found if you cut regular foil circles, you fold them under the lip of the pod and it will work the same as the stickers. It is best if you heap the coffee in a bit, as it will make contact with the mechanism in the machine which punctures the pod foil with little squares. If you overfill the stickers, sometimes they come off. If you use quality coffee you grind yourself, most people will be very happy with the coffee, especially how quick and convenient it is, and using proper steamed milk really adds to it, so better than those Aeroccino machines. Thanks so much for making this video, I do love the convenience of pods, but I hate the waste. I empty all coffee in the compost, ball up the foil lids and recycle. One day I might get a proper espresso machine, but the convenience of the pod in the morning will never be beaten. Being able to add good quality coffee makes a huge difference.

[@bastianbezon2687]

Creatista plus are so last year and subpar. Get a creatista pro

[@kerryb1653]

@@bastianbezon2687 Mate they are pretty much the same. Only only real differences are you get a touch screen, can program in drinks and you can brew the coffee and steam the milk simultaneously. For less money I'm happy with Plus.

[@bastianbezon2687]

@@kerryb1653 thats alot of difference. Besides, its an investment for some people and lose very little value with the years

[@kerryb1653]

I don't think you can really invest in an appliance. It could die tomorrow. Money gone. Besides, I got mine secondhand for $150 bucks. Can't complain about that!! Don't care about extra bells and whistles.

[@bastianbezon2687]

@@kerryb1653 not everybody has class, so it makes sense. It aint for you

[@markbrooks6979]

Interesting video. IMHO, the k-cup system is actually better for people who want to use refillable pods. I have a coworker who uses the user fillable k-pods, and they are bigger, easier to fill, and there are reasonable ones available without using a sticker.

[@JuanRodriguez0]

Fun fact, my country have some islands and they banned pods in them because they were starting to add up the huge volume of plastic they alredy need to take care for

[@ahkl77]

Reuseable pods seem like an intermediate step into the full manual espresso making experience. They are good for those who, 1. have these machines at workplace or home but prefer their own blend of coffee instead; 2. prefer to extend the use of their existing Nespresso machines than investing in an espresso machine and learning time in extracting their preferred blend; 3. prefer the much smaller form factor and simpler operation of their existing Nespresso machine.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Bingo

[@joycedollar1198]

Thank you. I just got the mini nespresso and was thinking of ordering this. I am now certain I wish to stay with the pods. Great video and explanation.

[@MBergyman]

I enjoyed your caveat. I enjoy good espresso from a proper shop with good equipment and fresh beans. I enjoy making coffees at home, on a lesser setup, but still "curated" to the best of my wallet's ability. A Nespresso pod machine is incredibly convenient though at work, where I do not want to have a bunch of equipment at my desk anymore. I enjoy them from time to time - not an every day thing, but they have their place.

[@CyberMercy]

It doesn't have to be mutually exclusive. I not only drink Coffee, Pour over, Pod, Bodum, I also drink loose leaf tea, tesain, flavoured carbonated water and European mineral water. Great vidi

[@fabiochrist]

In England and in Europe the pods are about 0.25-0.32 each. Store labels or independent pods are much cheaper! I'm surprised they cost so much in USA.

[@BoardsDarkglasses]

Yeah I am stunned at the price difference, usually things seem so much cheaper in the USA. That's a ridiculous price to pay for a coffee pod. Lor and kaffekapslen pods are like 17 EU cents each and are probably even better than nespresso.

[@rayh3690]

I use reusable capsule mostly because it is more environmental friendly and I can get coffee of my own choice…however, I found the taste becomes very weak with more and more use of the same capsule… do I also need to change the reusable capsule or I must also get a tamper?

[@etmax1]

I have 2 machines, a Philips/Saeco and a Jura. The Philips wins hands down for consistency and quality. Both get fed beans of your choice, fresh water and milk. Both grind the beans consistently and froth the milk. No stuffing around with pods or filling reusable pods. on the Philips I can set the amount of beans that gets ground, how fine the grind is, set the amount of pre-brew and the amount of frothing of the milk and how much gets put in. Most of the settings can be individualised for each coffee type (latte, cappuccino, machiato etc.) and for 6 different users on the Philips. So why would I bother with a pod machine? The only reason I can think of is that your budget doesn't extend to an all singing and dancing machine. If your budget constrains you, definitely use reusable pods, the environment demands it, even if your budget doesn't.

[@travisedmonds4214]

How do you get a somewhat similar end result with so much less coffee? I use 17g in my espresso machine but a Nespresso only uses 4-5g? What's going on there? Even with two pods at 10g that's still a lot less for the same amount of end product. I still use about the same amount of coffee for 8oz, about 17g...so is nespresso weak and bitter then? How is made good, good enough that many people will like it, with far less coffee than should be needed?

[@LifestyleLab_]

A great observation, and the answer is that you are compromising. There is no magic way to get more coffee out of only 5g. So you either end up with a well extracted small volume, or a larger volume that is weak and somewhat over-extracted. It’s not AS over-extracted as you might think when looking at the brew ratio, because it isn’t really extracting the same way as a true espresso shot. The grounds are loose inside the pressurized pod.

[@GiaDougherty]

Ok so I bought the same pods… and I have the same pixie machine as you show on the video. Then realized the coffee isn’t running smoothly it’s “choking” I guess that’s what you call it? It’s literally dripping instead of flowing 😢 I’m using the right type of coffee and the proper tools so my question is, am I just packing them too tight? Because everything else I did exactly as said. Also the pods I ordered already came with the “rubber band” around each pod and it also comes with tools for packing the coffee into the pod before sealing it with the sticker. Thanks

[@LifestyleLab_]

If your flow is choking, you just need to grind coarser, like on a full sized espresso machine :)

[@jefffrankel9625]

I noticed that the company offering the stainless pods also offers a version with a stainless reusable cap too. So if it works (I've ordered it), that fixes addresses the issue of foil caps.

[@LifestyleLab_]

I found that the foil caps produced better results that the refillable lids

[@meat_loves_wasabi]

Will give my reusable pod another try.. I gave up on it cos the coffee didnt taste as strong compared to the original pods

[@stanleyderochea6505]

I was refilling the actual pods that had coffee in them and sealing them with the foil covers. Was a royal pita and took so much time. I've graduated to a real espresso machine and don't mind going thru the steps every morning

[@marcobejasa5647]

I like how you explained AND compared things. I also have an espresso machine (not fancy) for a reasonable espresso at home and I have a nespresso original which I use when Im in a hurry or lazy to prep. And if I want the real deal espresso, I go to my local coffee shop and enjoy it. I also bought the refillable pods and been tamping them the same way. I used the metal caps but it's good that you pointed out the sticker covers. I have mine came with stickers but didn't bother to use them. I will after I've seen your video. Thanks! Keep up the vids

[@NhatLinhNguyen82]

How do metal caps work? Don't they damage the needles in the machines?

[@lhughey118]

Thanks for the info. Why didn't you use the smaller espresso pour on the machine rather than the long pour, especially if you're concerned about the consistency being too light?

[@LifestyleLab_]

Because in this case a longer brew ratio was required to achieve proper extraction with this system. A lower yield would have resulted in a sour / under extracted shot.

[@allenfinley3482]

There is a slight oversight in how to tamp these pods. Espresso cannot be tamped too tightly or pressed on too hard. If your machine is being "choked" you need to make your coffee grind more coarse. You should tamp as hard as you like every time, then adjust your grind setting to get the optimal flow.

[@LifestyleLab_]

For an actual espresso machine, yes. This is not a full sized espresso machine. I found you can definitely over tamp, and, most people using this re-usable pod will not be grinding their own coffee, therefore do not have the ability to dial in with grind size

[@covertops.]

Wow! I never realized refillable pods exist for Nespresso. I just got an Inissia for Christmas and I will definitely try out the refillable system! Thank you!!!

[@PWC67]

I have two Vertuo machines and bought the reusable steel pods online from Amazon. They destroyed both machines in least than a month but luckily as I spent so much with Nespresso on their pods, they gave me a new machine for free. These pods caused both machines to overspeed and loudly vibrate thus causing their demise ! I believe it is the incorrect barcodes on the reusable pods that causes the problems.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Vertuo is an entirely different system, like you said it spins the pods. I certainly wouldn’t trust metal pods in there either. For Nespresso Classic, they work great

[@bwsettle1]

I used this method and can report total success.

[@jussayin2325]

I was always under the impression that real Nespresso pods are slightly pressurised with nitrogen gas, which helps add a nice fake crema. It's a bit like the thing they put in Guinness cans to make a foamy head approximating a glass pulled from a keg. I could be wrong though.

[@rehancoffee2265]

youre right, some 3rd wave coffee roaster from my country did make their own pods with nitrogen flushed. not only it gonna add pressure when pulling a shot, it also gonna make the coffee ground fresh longer.

[@iFireender]

I think it's less about the pressurization and fake crema, it's more about a nitrogen atmosphere keeping the coffee fresh.

[@polarpenguin3]

Can you show the pods that didn't work well?

[@AimlessSky]

I would recommend a dolce gusto machine (I'm using one) if you want to have the versatility of using nespresso, dolce gusto and your own reusable pods. There are adaptors made to allow you to use nespresso pods on a dolce gusto machine, and you can easily find reusable pods either in plastic or stainless steel. Because dolce gusto has a much larger pod size, you can fill up to 8g of coffee rather than 4g in a nespresso pod.

[@jesusmachado9087]

I have a filter setup for my Keurig, works well I can control the amount of water and amount of coffee, and I use freshly ground. Should I try tamping?

[@freddye7442]

I use the original already used nesspreso pod with the silicone lip , those are the best and easy to prep and clean , coffee came 95 % same as original I don’t even get that noise sound from the machine , and you don’t actually have to press the ground , original pods are not tamped so, maybe that is why you are having that noise on your machine.

[@wpgc2]

thanks, did you find one that use stainless steel lid and works? Want to avoid aluminum, plastic or even silicone for something I drink 1-2 daily.

[@jpbarista3253]

Finally a decent video about nespresso refillable pods 🔥

[@marc6652]

I would have like to see how you RE-use the pods. Are they easy to drain and clean ? Furthermore there's 5g of coffee in a Nespresso caps, and 5,5g in some others. 4g here. At the end, which expresso is better ?

[@yuriythebest]

I already have a reusable coffee thing: it’s called, and bear with me here, an “espresso maker”, where you can fill it up with ground coffee, and it comes with its own reusable puck straight away!

[@gibson1005]

yeah, for when you have 500$ laying around

[@LifestyleLab_]

And people ask why I put that section in the intro 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@yuriythebest]

@@gibson1005 I'm nor sure where you got the 500USD figure from, I have a saeco poemia ( now rebranded to gaggia viva) which costs around 150USD and which I've used for 5+ years now. If you include the (lack of the ) cost of the pods, the price is not that much, though, it actually does include the option to use em though I've never done so

[@dustinasche]

The main advantages of a Nespresso machine are the speed, ease of use, and convenience (setting aside price for the moment because there are cheaper, better solutions), so why do its fans always jump at the "but there are reusable pods" defense against its critics, when they're so demonstrably slower, finickier to use, and less convenient?

[@LifestyleLab_]

Because people can make coffee however they like 👍

[@dustinasche]

@@LifestyleLab_ okay, so just say "I personally value the convenience of a Nespresso machine over other factors." The reusable pod argument is just disingenuous because I guarantee that almost nobody is buying a Nespresso machine for any other reason than convenience, and anybody already willing to put in the effort for the reusable pods would be better served by another brewing method.

[@LifestyleLab_]

What about for those who already bought a Nespresso system and now want to improve their quality or variety without investing in a whole new system? This isn’t about right or wrong, everyone just takes a different coffee journey and neat products like this are there to meet them along the way

[@dustinasche]

@@LifestyleLab_ that's cool, too, except, that's never where I seem to run into the reusable pods argument. It's always in the context of somebody buying a new setup who is trying to weigh the pros and cons of the machine against other solutions in the market. If you already own a Nespresso and want to switch to reusable pods, great! If you're shopping for a new setup and care about anything besides "push button, get coffee," then I would argue that something like an AeroPress and a basic electric kettle will produce a similar quality of coffee for a similar amount of effort, but cost less than half as much.

[@Henderson101]

You can buy off brand pods for a lot cheaper than $0.80. I was looking at some in Lidl yesterday and they were (in GBP) 2.80 for 10. So that is, what 28p, which is what, $0.35. So honestly negligible difference. Even the branded starbucks ones are something like $4.80 for 10. Maybe this is just because UK, and Europe had more choice?

[@Empstorm_coffee_maker]

I watched the whole process of your talk, the rhythm was very good, I listened very much.😄

[@kidShibuya]

3:46 I always hear Nespresso is expensive and the same numbers are always quoted.. Why? I just did the calculation for my pods, they are 29yen each which is about 20 us cents. The same. So why?

[@wolfgaidin]

Unregulated capitalism is our god and our god is killing us all while making coffee overly expensive to boot. We also don't have universal healthcare, paid maternity leave, or reasonably-priced childcare or collage education like the rest of the developed world - we are, essentially, a third world country in many ways ruled by an oligarchic corporatocracy who is making the working class into modern day serfs. But yeah, coffee is too expensive here.

[@gitit20x2]

I still use my revo from day one its now 11 years old use it every day I made me some pods I can use and its so nice...

[@geodisafadi2423]

Great video. Thank you. I have a nesspresso machine, and I'm thinking of buying this reusable pod. But, what level of ground coffee does It work with ? Fine ground ?

[@LifestyleLab_]

Yes, espresso grind

[@clion520]

Lol I drink coffee from a 25$ pod machine. I did buy a couple reusable pods. I would be interested if you would try one of those cheapy Walmart pod machines with a reusable pod and give best ideas on grind size or what the best reusablepod might be, my grounds seem to clog up the pod when I pack it down.

[@djneo92nl]

This is great. I used a Nespresso as a home before working from home and will continue to work large times from home. And going from a few pots a week. I'm now using wayyyy to much per day

[@chimingcheung6629]

Hmmm some of the people reason to use Nespresso machine is because it is quick to get your coffee before getting to work. But if you are using re-usable pods. The time that you get the pods ready, I think I already make few cups of coffee from an espresso machine.

[@jackiebrand3352]

Thank you for the information. Being retired and on a budget saving where I can is a must.

[@penultimatename6677]

The Nespresso crema is more air than carbon dioxide. I came from Nespresso and discovered the amazing difference when moving to an espresso machine.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Yup! Nespresso is essentially just a pressurized filter basket.

[@marchandler6219]

I just found your channel and I really appreciate your approach. You are obviously knowledgeable and you come across as sharing information, not as boisterous or snobby. I also find your speaking voice pleasant and your tempo easy to listen to. I’ve subscribed. I look forward to learning more from you.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Thanks Marc, much appreciated!

[@larryn8]

That’s the first thing I noticed in the first 15 seconds of watching his video.

[@civiprepper]

I have 5 capsules they work great. I just make them up off one grind in the morning and get to enjoy Pellini cremoso at work for pennies on the pound :)

[@psychomode694]

Hi...Does the reusable pods cause any kind of damage to the machine? I'm afraid to "brake it" with something that is not specially designed for it

[@LifestyleLab_]

But these are specially designed for it :)

[@michaelwisniewski6047]

When we used a type like this (not sure if same manufacturer) it was a hassle removing the glue left by the lid. A Stanley knife was necessary most of the time. And you're not addressing the post-use part of the job.

[@blazec8739]

Love this video. I have a question, I'm looking to buy an at-home espresso machine so I can make iced lates at home to bring on the go on my way to work. I know these pod machines don't make "real" espresso and make what you would call a "coffee shot" instead (is it similar to a moka pot?) but do you think its noticeable in an ice drink for example? I'm trying to mimic a Starbucks style tasting drink as best as I can. If you have another suggestion for a better at-home machine that doesn't break the bank I'd really appreciate it!

[@LifestyleLab_]

It won’t have the same texture or strength as a moka pot for similar reasons that there simply isn’t enough coffee in each pod. However, for a milked iced drink, Nespresso will likely serve you perfectly fine :) If you do want to look into something a little more serious, you could check out the Breville Bambino, which would open up the doors to also making warm lattes Breville Bambino Review kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3jFkpahebWHpJo

[@Dhruv1223]

I never got a pod machine got an espresso machine and that time I take to make my cup of coffee is the ideal time to think about my day and plan it

[@wennwendy]

Can you pre-fill a bunch of these pods in one go and use them throughout the week?

[@LifestyleLab_]

Sure!

[@oldbaldguy6151]

Interesting. I have never tried the metal ones due to cost. I have tried the plastic ones which do not use the foil lid, they have a built in filter lid and they are are complete waste of good coffee. Maybe time to step up!

[@suecoelho467]

I don’t care who judges me…don’t give a fig! I have a variety of coffee makers, in varying price points. I change it out every week. One week it’s French Press, another week it’s stove top Moka pot, another week it’s a Rocket Appartamento or my Nespresso OL…that way it’s like a new experience every time. I don’t owe anything to anyone

[@KrishnenduKes]

Inspired by you and your work and the work of some others, I have decided to go all in... Gaggia probably.

[@LifestyleLab_]

Gaggia is pretty unbeatable in the sub $1000 range 👍

[@REAL6]

I'm curious. Don't these pods damage the blades in the Nespresso machine since it can't pop holes in these steel ones?

[@LifestyleLab_]

They are shorter so the blades don't contact the pod

[@accent-guy]

how find should we grind coffee for this? I use typical grind and it is not giving any foam and coffee is watery compare to pre filled pods.

[@LifestyleLab_]

"Foam" or crema is purely a result of coffee freshness. Make sure you have locally roasted coffee, not something stale from the supermarket. If the flow is too fast, certainly also try grinding slightly finer

[@christophmilz]

Hi! Thanks for the video. Does one really save money switching from a nespresso system to a barista machine? Maybe I get this wrong, but 12 oz of espresso beans from our local roasters in CA go for $16. W/o any loss of beans that gets you 19 shots with an 18g basket. That translates into 85 cent. An Nespresso Firenze Arpeggio is 75 cent. Am I getting this wrong?

[@LifestyleLab_]

Your math is on, but your mistake is comparing a 5g single shot of Nespresso to an 18g double shot from a traditional machine

[@christophmilz]

@@LifestyleLab_ Ha! You’re totally right. Duh! However, when I consume 1 capsule vs. 1 18g double shot, it almost doesn’t feel that much different… that might just be me. Looking strictly at cost. Interesting.

[@askthepaperclip]

@lifestyle lab After purchasing some cheap compatible pods (gourmesso) that I found absolute garbage compared to Nespresso brand, I decided to dust off my old KMix and buy some nice coffee (counter culture) ground fresh at my local shop. After a week of YouTubing James Hoffman and fiddling and dialing in, I found that I needed a 14g dose with a 35g pull to get something comparable to a 40g shot using my favorite Nespresso pods. After a couple days of this, I ran the numbers and realized it cost me $0.65 per shot using the espresso machine, compared to $0.75 per shot using the pods, and I only marginally appreciated the difference. My conclusion was that Nespresso is doing some sort of magic to get so much flavor out of 5g, and ordered more pods the next day. So yes, different weights of coffee, but at least on my admittedly inexpensive espresso machine, Christoph's math and logic holds up for me.

[@timliu6870]

Try making Americano with espresso you get from Nespresso and a troditional machine, you can see or taste the difference immediately. Nespresso is almost like water, no crema and no flavor.

[@yavuzselimdogan9852]

You should use coffee which is inside the actual capsule to fill the aluminium capsule, and try both of them. So you and we can understand the difference with the exact same coffee.

[@AlmostLastJedi]

I have reusable pods but with a metal lid, can you use those stickers on mine? I want to see if I get a different result.

[@avertry9529]

I use a £1 tea strainer and coffee filter over a large mug. Arabica Coffee with Polish coffee-creamer, with change to spare. Beats $5,000 coffee maker any day.

[@LifestyleLab_]

You're comparing a pour over to completely different brewing styles. Pour over is a fantastic way to get excellent coffee. However, preference does not equal superiority

[@OhWanya]

I’ve only ever used reusable pods on my keurig (strongest Folgers) in a pinch in the morning. BUT to my defense I have an espresso machine dearly loved and used daily.

[@WATCH-IT-BUSTER]

I open the used capsules, mix them In a container, then put that coffee in the metal pod.

[@merrydukes4480]

thank you :) exactly the video I was looking for

[@mikesrandomchannel]

Never got them to work, otherwise I‘d use them all the time. Tried two different systems, nothing doing. Maybe I should revisit this, esp. the grind setting.