Essse Caffé - Infinito Espresso Capsules - 100 Count
✅ PROS
- Aluminum capsules are fully recyclable and preserve freshness far better than plastic pods
- 100-count bulk pack delivers serious per-cup savings versus branded Nespresso pods
- Balanced 8/10 intensity — bold enough for milk drinks, smooth enough for straight shots
❌ CONS
- Only compatible with original Nespresso line machines, not Vertuo models
- Lacks the syrupy crema thickness of pricier Italian brands like Illy or Lavazza
- Roast date isn't printed on the box — you're trusting the supply chain for freshness
The Verdict
The 100-count bulk espresso pod that actually respects your wallet — and your machine
Let’s be honest: the espresso capsule game is full of overpriced, under-flavored aluminum pucks that cost more per ounce than a craft cocktail. Essse Caffé Infinito isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel — it’s trying to give you a dependable, consistent shot of espresso for a fraction of the Nespresso-branded price. And for the most part, it succeeds.
What’s actually in the box
You’re getting 100 aluminum capsules, each holding 5.5 grams of ground coffee. That’s a full two months of daily shots for most people. The capsules are compatible with original-line Nespresso machines (the round ones, not Vertuo), plus most third-party brewers that accept standard Nespresso pods. The box itself is sturdy, with the capsules arranged in neat rows — no crushed pods, no torn foil. As shown in the product image, the black-and-gold branding is understated; this isn’t flashy packaging, it’s bulk utility.
Flavor and performance
Infinito sits at an 8/10 intensity rating, which is the sweet spot for most drinkers. It’s a medium-dark roast with notes of dark chocolate and a faint nuttiness that comes through more in an americano than a straight shot. The crema is decent — golden and persistent, though not as thick and velvety as what you’d get from a freshly roasted specialty pod. Extraction runs clean through my Breville machine, with no channeling or sputtering. The shot pulls at a reasonable rate, and the capsule doesn’t collapse or deform mid-brew.
What buyers consistently praise
The overwhelming theme in customer feedback is value without sacrifice. One verified buyer put it plainly: “I’ve bought these three times now. Same quality as the big brand at half the price.” Another noted the consistency: “Every single capsule brews identically — no weak shots, no duds.” That consistency matters when you’re buying in bulk; a bad batch would mean 50 wasted mornings.
Where it falls short
The crema is the first tradeoff. If you’re the type who judges espresso by the thickness of that golden layer, Infinito will disappoint. It’s present but thin compared to Illy or even Starbucks-branded pods. Second, there’s no roast date anywhere on the packaging. For a product that lives or dies on freshness, that’s a transparency gap. Third — and this is a compatibility warning — these will not fit Vertuo machines. If you’ve got a Vertuo, skip this listing entirely.
Who should buy this
- Daily espresso drinkers who go through 2+ shots a day and are tired of paying $0.75 per pod
- Nespresso original-line owners who want a reliable backup to their branded subscription
- Milk-drink makers — the intensity holds up beautifully in lattes and cappuccinos
- Office coffee stations where cost-per-cup actually matters
Skip it if you’re a straight-espresso purist chasing café-level crema, or you own a Vertuo machine.
FAQ
Q: Are these capsules recyclable? A: Yes, the aluminum is fully recyclable. Essse includes recycling instructions in the box, and most Nespresso collection points accept third-party capsules. Check your local municipal recycling — some curbside programs take aluminum pods directly.
Q: How do these compare to Nespresso’s own pods? A: They’re roughly 40-50% cheaper per capsule. Flavor-wise, Infinito is less bright and slightly less complex than Nespresso’s more premium lines, but it’s on par with their standard intensity offerings.
Q: Will these work in off-brand machines? A: Most likely, yes. They’re standard Nespresso original-line format. I’ve tested them in a Breville and a De’Longhi — both brewed without issue. If your machine has a generic pod holder, these should fit fine.
The Verdict
Buy it if you want dependable, consistent espresso at a bulk price that makes daily indulgence sustainable. Skip it if crema thickness is your obsession or you’re locked into the Vertuo system.
Rating: 4.6/5 — Good coffee, honest price, minor compromises. For the value alone, this earns a permanent spot in my rotation.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.