E.S.E. Pods vs Coffee Capsules – Compatibility, Strength, and Packaging

Coffee lovers often ask two common questions about E.S.E. (Easy Serving Espresso) pods:

The answers aren’t always straightforward.

Let’s break down the differences between E.S.E. pods and capsules, their compatibility, flavour strength, and packaging.

Compatibility – Pods vs Capsules

E.S.E. pods follow an open international standard (size, shape, extraction results).
Capsules are closed proprietary systems (like printers with ink cartridges).
Capsule machines require specific consumables; using the wrong ones risks poor results or equipment damage.
Some machines advertise “P.O.D. compatible” but may not support E.S.E. pods—always check manufacturer specifications.
Nespresso systems are not compatible with ESE pods.

Tip: If your machine doesn’t explicitly say E.S.E. compatible, contact the manufacturer directly.

Capsules (closed systems): Proprietary, controlled by brands like Nespresso. Machines are often sold cheaply, but capsules are expensive.
E.S.E. pods (open systems): Standardised, widely available, and not owned by any corporation. Machines are designed for affordability and reliability.
Capsule systems dominate in Australia, whilst E.S.E. pods remain popular in Europe.

Australia: 95% of espresso drinks are milk‑based (lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites). Customers prefer smooth, sweet, non‑bitter coffee.
Europe: More short‑black drinkers. Stronger blends often include robusta for bite and cost efficiency.

Result: A 7g pod or 5g capsule cannot replicate the intensity of a café double‑shot (16–21g).

Australian cafés often use double ristretto extractions for sweetness and body.
Capsules and pods must balance dosage with flavour—E.S.E. pods generally deliver more intensity than Nespresso classic/original capsules.
At MyCuppa, our E.S.E. pods use 7.8g of premium Kenyan and Central American arabica, tuned for milk‑based espresso.

NOTE: - myCuppa no longer manufacturers or sells ESE pods.

Capsules:
- Aluminium capsules provide superior barrier protection and are recyclable.
- Plastic capsules are cheaper but less effective at preserving flavour.
- Biodegradable capsules exist but often compromise freshness.
E.S.E. pods:
- Made with biodegradable filter paper.
- Individually foil‑wrapped for effective barrier protection.
- Compostable and eco‑friendly compared to capsules.

When comparing E.S.E. pods vs capsules:

ESE Pods offer higher dosage, open compatibility, and eco‑friendly packaging.
Nespresso classic/origin Capsules provide convenience and proprietary systems, but often at higher cost and lower strength.
For Australian coffee drinkers who love milk‑based espresso, E.S.E. pods deliver a closer match to café quality.
In 2022, the only Australian independent converter of roasted coffee beans into ESE pods shutdown due to financial difficulties.
The decline of ESE pods in Australia made it no longer viable for the only independent converter to stay in business. The assets were sold to a coffee roasting brand and since many sellers, including myCuppa, have exited the ESE Pod segment in Australia.
Most ESE pods sold in Australia these days are imported from Italy. Stale and potentially heat affected, rendering the ESE pod standard in Australia likely to disappear in the near future.