For passionate coffee lovers, the importance of a good coffee machine is central. Of course, the kind of coffee and the capsules chosen also matter, but having a machine that allows you to make an intense, aromatic coffee with the right creaminess is a luxury that we can enjoy at home.
Do you want to know the differences between Nespresso and Dolce Gusto? We’ll tell you everything you need to know.
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Nespresso Vs Dolce Gusto – A look at the differences
It may seem that there are no major differences between these two Nestlè systems. But the reality is that, for coffee lovers, they do exist and they are noticeable. With this analysis we will give you the knowledge you need to make the perfect choice for your home.
Let’s start with experience in the market, a factor that can be decisive. The Nespresso brand was launched on the market in 1986, while Dolce Gusto only appeared in 2006. At this particular stat, Nespresso wins, but Dolce Gusto is a good learner and has adapted to the preferences of consumers. What Nespresso achieved was a position as a leader in the pod coffee sector, something that did not exist at the time, and to transport the act of drinking espresso coffee to the inside of our houses.
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This may be the key: What kind of pods are used?
Nespresso has always chosen to focus its offer on a slightly more exclusive segment, thus avoiding selling its capsules in supermarkets (they are only available at the brand’s stores or online) and at prices that are somewhat higher than the competition. They have coffees with higher levels of intensity and body, so they are ideal for those who really like the taste of coffee. For that same reason, their pods contain only coffee – no other options.
As for Dolce Gusto capsules, they took a different and somewhat more heterogeneous approach, with different drink options in addition to simple coffee – coffee with milk, chocolate, tea, among others -, to reach a wider audience. This way, the brand positioned itself not only as a coffee brand but also as a solution for everyone at home.
For coffee lovers, Nespresso is probably the right choice, for its intensity, creaminess and strength. But you have to be willing to let go of other options and combinations (even if it is possible to prepare them after). If your family has a mix of tastes and prefers a more diverse solution, with teas, hot chocolate or others, then Dolce Gusto can be the answer.
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But we haven’t talked about price yet. Which of the coffee machines has the best value for money?
We could not help talking about the price, since in any product it is a determining factor. In this case, we will analyze the prices of the Dolce Gusto and Nespresso machines, and in addition, we will also see the price differences between the capsules, which should also be included in the final balance.
The mid-range Nespresso machines can cost around 90 euros. If you want a more advanced model, with additional functions, such as milk frother, for cappuccinos and other recipes, or with capacity for two capsules at the same time, you should be prepared to spend a little bit more. Dolce Gusto machines are cheaper, costing around 50 euros, in the case of the most basic models.
As for the capsules, once again we see that Dolce Gusto presents the cheapest options. Although it is a difference of a few cents, this can represent a significant saving in the family economy in the long run, especially if we are talking about a household where a lot of coffee is consumed. The cheaper packs can include capsules that cost around 30 cents, in the case of Dolce Gusto, while Nespresso capsules can reach 35 cents.
Having looked at the differences, let’s do a pros and cons of Dolce Gusto vs Nespresso
We’ve created a list of strengths and weaknesses of the Dolce Gusto brand, when compared to its rival Nespresso.
Benefits
- There are more combinations and possibilities of flavors, in addition to coffee.
- Its catalog includes capsules with milk, for those who prefer to reduce the intensity of the coffee.
- Both machines and capsules are cheaper than the Nespresso versions.
- Greater possibilities for customization, especially in terms of the quantity served.
- Good quality coffee and adapted to the market.
- It’s easier to buy products from this brand, because they are available in all supermarkets and stores.
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Downsides
- Despite being good quality coffees, it is possible that they fall short of the most demanding and coffee-loving palates.
- They have a smaller variety of coffees to choose from.
- Dolce Gusto coffee machines don’t have a tank for used capsules, which means that they must be removed after use.
- Dolce Gusto coffee machines are built with lower quality materials than Nespresso machines.
Pros and Cons of Nespresso Vs Dolce Gusto
Now we have reversed the exercise and we’ve created a list of benefits and drawbacks of the Nespresso brand compared to its competitor Dolce Gusto.
Pros
- Their coffees are more exclusive, with higher quality and intensity, and very diverse options to please all coffee consumers and connoisseurs.
- A brand that created this market segment and therefore has the greatest experience in capsule coffee.
- Top quality coffee machines, which means you will have better coffee for longer when compared to a Dolce Gusto machine.
- Tank for used capsules, to store the capsules after they serve their purpose, thus avoiding the need for removal after each coffee.
- Larger water tank, which allows for longer use without having to refill.
- Nespresso machines available with advanced functions, such as milk frother (you can also buy the accessory separately), to achieve a professional-grade foam.
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Cons
- The price is the highest in the market. A personal assessment should be made to see if it pays to pay more.
- There is no possibility to make drinks other than coffee (unless afterwards or by using accessories).
- It is more difficult to buy the capsules from this brand, since they are only sold in official stores or through the internet, and are not available in supermarkets.
- Difficulty in customizing sizes – complaints about coffees being too short or too long are common.
Nespreso or Dolce Gusto: Which coffee machine should I choose?
The answer to the previous question must be answered by the buyer, since it depends on several factors: what do you want to get from the coffee machine?; what type of coffee or coffee drink is consumed at home?; can I fit this expense into the household budget ?; am i really a coffee connoisseur and will I notice the difference between one brand and the other?
After answering these questions and analyzing the differences between the two systems, you are likely to get the answer you are looking for. For those people who really want a superior coffee and don’t mind spending a little more, Nespresso is the ideal solution, in addition to offering greater durability.
For those households where the consumption of beverages is less homogeneous, Dolce Gusto allows for you to prepare drinks such as teas, hot chocolate or coffee with milk in an instant and comfortable way. It is also an option that weighs less on the family budget, which can tip the balance this way, and it’s easy to buy at any supermarket.
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