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May 31, 2023 4 min read
You've likely referred to a "coffee capsule" as a "coffee pod," assuming these terms are interchangeable.
While both coffee pods and coffee capsules (like the K-cup® or a Mystic Monk single-serve coffee cup, also known as Monk shots) contain single-serve portions of coffee and are known for their convenient single-serve brewing, pods and capsules are two entirely different products.
Understanding the difference between coffee pods and coffee capsules isn't just a matter of "semantics." Because coffee pods are incompatible with coffee capsule machines, using coffee pods in a capsule machine could result in equipment malfunction or even permanent damage.
To avoid brewing mishaps, familiarize yourself with what coffee pods are and how they differ from capsules. That way, you'll be able to easily decipher your coffee machine instruction manual, purchase the right coffee essentials, and brew coffee without technical difficulty.
Coffee pods are small, single-serving containers that contain pre-measured amounts of ground coffee.
Coffee pods were introduced in the 1990s as an alternative to traditional coffee brewing methods, such as drip or French press. Acclaimed for their ability to produce consistent results every time, coffee pods have remained a popular choice among coffee drinkers.
Aside from consistency, coffee pods are revered for their convenience, portability, variety, and long shelf life.
Coffee pods come in various strengths, flavors, brands, and types. Some example types of coffee pods include the following:
It's important to note that not all pods are compatible with all pod coffee makers. Some manufacturers produce proprietary pods that can only be used with their machines, while others may offer pods compatible with multiple brands.
Coffee capsules are small, pre-packaged containers filled with ground coffee and sealed with a foil or plastic lid. Designed for use in select coffee machines, coffee capsules are inserted into a compatible machine's chamber.
There's no shortage of options, from espresso coffee capsules to lungo capsules to flavored coffee capsules to single-origin coffee capsules.
Like with pods, certain brands of coffee capsules are only compatible with a select capsule coffee machine. For example, a Nespresso machine's chamber only accommodates Nespresso's proprietary line of espresso capsules.
Traditional coffee pods are typically round and flat with a paper filter, while coffee capsules (often nicknamed "coffee pods" e.g., "Keurig K-Cup pods") are usually more cylindrical and include an aluminum or plastic casing that seals the ground coffee inside.
Not only do coffee pods and coffee capsules vary in structure, but their extraction processes do as well.
Coffee pods require machines that use pressure to extract the coffee, while capsule extraction requires a machine that heats water and forces a jet stream of piping hot water through the capsule and the coffee grounds stored within.
Coffee pods require a particular coffee machine, known as a pod coffee maker. Note that not all coffee machines are coffee pod compatible. So, before you purchase any pods, make sure to do your research and confirm compatibility with your specific machine to avoid wasting money on pods that won't work.
Many different pod coffee maker brands are available on the market, sponsored by brands like Senseo and Tassimo.
Coffee pod makers come in various sizes and styles, ranging from small single-serve machines to larger models that can brew multiple cups at once. Coffee pod makers come stocked with features like adjustable brew strength, programmable settings, and built-in frothers perfect for whipping up specialty drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
Coffee pod makers are not to be mistaken for capsule coffee machines, like Keurig's K-Cup coffee maker or the Nespresso machine, two appliances that have quickly become household names.
There's no clear winner for single-serve coffee options, as pods and capsules each feature their own unique benefits. While coffee pods have greater cross-machine compatibility and are more eco-friendly, coffee capsules produce a stronger cup of coffee than pods with more crema (the frothy layer that forms on top of espresso shots).
Leaning toward coffee capsules? Check out Mystic Monk's collection of Monk Shot coffee capsules.
just as satisfying as the dark roasts I usually drink
Best decaf coffee I ever have had. Been a subscriber for years, and brother monks are very nice, patient, and accommodating to my changing schedules of delivery.
Thank you very much Mystic Monk❤️
Won't drink any other coffee. This is the best! Been drinking for over 10 years & give as gifts.
