This article uses affiliate links, which means if you purchase products through these links, we may earn a commission. Click here to see our T&C. For licensing please click here.
beverage-1869598_1920
Single serve coffee makers are a godsend for many, but which coffee brand actually has the best pods? pixabay (CC0)

Drinking coffee is an essential part of our morning routine. But morning routines also consist of waking up early to prepare for work. This is why single-serve coffee makers are a godsend.

When it comes to single-serve coffee makers, Keurig and Nespresso are the most popular brands. Nespresso is an established brand with its own line of coffee pods while Keurig offers a wide variety of brands compatible with its machines making it a strong competitor. To help you decide, we listed down eight of the best coffee pods from each brand.

Top Nespresso Pods:

1. Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine Ristretto Intenso Coffee Pods
(photo from amazon.com)

While the Nespresso Ispirazione Ristretto Italiano is tasty and strong enough to stand on its own, adding some milk makes for an excellent latte. The aroma is slightly fruity, while the flavor has hints of dark chocolate.

2. Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Arpeggio Intenso, Dark Roast Coffee
(photo from amazon.com)

Made from intensely roasted Central American and South American Arabica beans, these pods are known for its low acidity, cocoa notes and fruity and malted flavor profiles.

3. Nestle Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine Ispirazione Espresso Variety Pack
(photo from amazon.com)

If you’re still deciding on which Nespresso capsule is your favorite, then this variety pack is perfect for you. Each pack comes with 10 pods for each type of coffee, totaling to 100 pods. The intensity ratings for these capsules range from four to 10.

4. Nespresso OriginalLine (European Version) Ispirazione Italiana: Venezia
(photo from amazon.com)

A fan favorite, this is ideal for cappuccinos, lattes or any other milk-based coffee drink. It also provides just enough coffee flavor without being too empowering and even has light hints of caramel and cereal.

5. Bestpresso Coffee Variety Pack for Nespresso Original Machine
(photo from amazon.com)

Want to save money? Then this pack is perfect for you. With 120 pods (20 for each variant), this variety pack comes with Ristretto, Intenso, Arabica, Lungo, Verona and Espresso, which have an intensity rating ranging from six to 12. These are also certified Kosher and have no preservatives or sugar.

6. Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Kazaar Intenso, Dark Roast Coffee
(photo from amazon.com)

For those who like their coffee bold and strong, the Nespresso Ispirazione Palermo Kazaar is a must try. With an intensity rating of 12 out of 13, these pods will give you coffee that is darkly delicious and strong, with a mild spiciness that sets it apart from other dark roasts.

7. Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine Ristretto Decaffeinato
(photo from amazon.com)

Cutting back on caffeine? Then these Ristretto Decaffeinato capsules are perfect for you. Made from Latin American and East African Arabica beans with a mix of Robusta thrown in, these pods provide fruity and acidic notes.

8. Nespresso Capsules VertuoLine, Voltesso
(photo from amazon.com)

Light roast coffee fans, unite! Offering more intricate and layered flavors like creamy biscuit and a subtle sweetness, these pods have an intensity rating of four out of 13 and are gentle enough for a laidback afternoon coffee session.

Best Keurig Pods:
9. The Original Donut Shop Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Pods
(photo from amazon.com)

A go-to of many coffee lovers, this chocolatey and nutty medium roast coffee is the type that you can have everyday and never get tired of. It’s a classic for Keurig fans and is definitely worth checking out for those who haven’t tried it yet.

10. Caribou Coffee Daybreak Morning Blend, Light Roast Coffee
(photo from amazon.com)

Delightfully smooth and gentle, this light roast coffee is aptly named because its subtle undertones of sweet caramel are the perfect way to start your day. It packs a smooth punch with every sip and is sure to get you ready for the day ahead.

11. Peet’s Coffee Major Dickason's Blend K-Cup Coffee Pods
(photo from amazon.com)

As the most popular blend of one of the most trusted coffee brands in the world, Major Dickason is a whole-bean dark roast coffee that presents a balanced mix of chocolate and smoky notes. Best of all, it’s priced quite affordably and is a fan favorite of those who prefer dark roast.

12. Coffee Pods Variety Pack Sampler, Assorted Single Serve Coffee for Keurig K Cups Coffee Makers, 40 Unique Cups
(photo from amazon.com)

Do you want to sample a variety of flavors from popular brands? This Crazy Cups Custom Variety pack is exactly what you’re looking for. Featuring 40 pods from 20 different brands like Starbucks, Eight O’ Clock, Green Moutain Coffee and more, this pack is perfect for those who enjoy tasting a different cup of coffee each day.

13. Café Bustelo Espresso Style Dark Roast Coffee
(photo from amazon.com)

While this espresso can be enjoyed on its own, it can also be used to make great cappuccinos and lattes if you have a milk frother at home. As for taste, this brand is praised for its rich, deep, dark roast flavor and value for money.

14. Starbucks Blonde Roast K-Cup Coffee Pods — Veranda Blend for Keurig Brewers
(photo from amazon.com)

Everyone loves a good cup of Starbucks, so why not have one right at your home? While many say that Starbucks coffee has a distinct “burnt” taste, many would agree that the blonde roast does a great job of "lightening" things up in a very pleasant and gentle way.

15. CozyUp 76-Count Medium Roast Colombian Coffee Pods
(photo from amazon.com)

If you’re looking for a medium roast, then this Colombian coffee is the best you can get. While strong, it’s also just sweet enough with a hint of cocoa and caramel. A true underdog, this lesser-known but terrific brand is one that you shouldn’t miss.

16. Newman's Own Organics French Roast
(photo from amazon.com)

With a velvety smooth but rich texture that French roasts are known for, these Newman’s Own Organics French Roast pods are flavorful enough to be considered a dark roast. A portion of each sale goes to charity, so you’re making a small difference with every cup.