Understanding the Differences Between Nespresso Capsule (or Pod) Formats

You're not alone if you're shopping for coffee capsules (or sometimes called pods) and feeling confused by the different Nespresso formats.

With terms like Original/Classic Line, Vertuo Line, Vertuo Next, and more floating around, such as Lavazza Modo Mio, it's easy to get overwhelmed.

At Just Fresh Roasted, we're here to simplify things.

This guide breaks down the major Nespresso capsule

systems to find the perfect capsule — whether using a classic espresso machine or a newer Vertuo-style brewer.

🔹 1. Nespresso Original Line (Also Called Original or Classic)

Best for: Espresso lovers who want classic coffeehouse-style brews

Pod shape: Small, narrow capsule

Machine examples: Essenza Mini, CitiZ, Lattissima, Creatista, Inissia

Key Features:

• Designed for espresso and lungo shots
• It uses pressure-based extraction (similar to traditional espresso machines)
• Compatible with many third-party capsules, including our Organic Coffee Pods at myCoffeePods.com.au
• Typically cheaper and more flexible for specialty coffee

Pros:

✔️ Intense espresso flavour

✔️ Greater variety of independent roasters

✔️ Lower machine and pod cost

Cons:

✖️ No brewed coffee or large cup options

✖️ Smaller cup sizes (25–110ml)

🔹 2. Nespresso Vertuo Line

Best for: People who like both espresso and large mugs of coffee

Pod shape: Dome-shaped and barcode-lined

Machine examples: Vertuo, Vertuo Plus, Vertuo Next

Key Features:

• Designed to brew everything from espresso to 500ml mugs
• Uses centrifugation technology (spins the pod at high speed)
• Each pod has a barcode to control brewing parameters (amount, temperature, spin speed)
• Only Nespresso-branded pods (and a few licensed partners) work — no open third-party compatibility

Pros:

✔️ Wide range of cup sizes (espresso to coffee mug)

✔️ One-touch operation with barcode control

✔️ Great for casual drinkers or households with mixed preferences

Cons:

✖️ More expensive capsules

✖️ No universal capsule compatibility for 3rd party capsule makers - we do NOT manufacture capsules to suit Vertuo Line machines.

✖️ Environmentally harder to recycle (unless returned to Nespresso)

🔹 3. Vertuo Next vs Vertuo Plus vs Vertuo Original – What's the Difference?

All Vertuo machines use the same capsule style, but there are minor differences:

All three use the same Vertuo capsules, but Vertuo Next offers more tech features and sustainability options.

🔹 4. Are Vertuo Capsules and Original Capsules Interchangeable?

No — they are NOT interchangeable.

Vertuo machines can only use Vertuo capsules.

Original machines can only use Original-style capsules.

Here's a simple visual cue:

• Vertuo capsules look like dome-shaped flying saucers
• Original capsules look like small thimbles or traditional espresso capsules

👉 Tip: Always check your machine type before buying pods.

🔹 5. Which Format Is Right for You?

Preference Best Option

Espresso-focused experience Nespresso OriginalLine

Third-party & eco pod options Nespresso OriginalLine

Variety of cup sizes Nespresso VertuoLine

One-touch large coffees Nespresso VertuoLine

Better value per cup Nespresso OriginalLine

Compatibility with organic pods Nespresso OriginalLine

🌱 Just Fresh Roasted Tip:

If you're using an Original Line machine, we've covered you with high-quality, Organic Nespresso-compatible capsules made in our factory called myCoffeePods.com.au.

Our capsules are:

• 100% specialty-grade Arabica
• It is filled with premium Organic certified coffee
• Roasted fresh right here in Australia and packed in small batches.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Nespresso system comes down to your coffee style:

• Want maximum flavour and flexibility? Go Original.
• Need quick, café-style coffee in larger cups? Go Vertuo.

Still unsure which capsule is right for your machine?

Feel free to contact us — we're always happy to help you find your perfect brew.