What Do The Numbers On Your Nespresso Pods Mean?

There are so many varieties of Nespresso pods out there. They come in different colors, sizes, and, to top it off, each one has a little number too. If you've ever wondered what those numbers mean, the answer is actually quite simple: They indicate the intensity level of the coffee.

There are many things coffee enthusiasts should know about Nespresso, and the company's intensity scale is definitely one of them. Nespresso labels its pods with numbers from one to 13, with one meaning the pod is one of the least intense coffees available. Many of the company's flavored coffees and pour-over styles have lower numbers, while darker-colored pods like the Double Espresso Scuro and Ristretto Intenso have higher ones.

Contrary to what you might imagine, the numbers have nothing to do with caffeine levels. Instead, Nespresso bases its intensity rating on the body, bitterness, and roasting of the beans. Coffees with lower numbers taste lighter and smoother, while the higher numbers are richer and more robust.

If you like floral and fruity notes, Nespresso recommends a pod numbered between three and six. Pods rated from six to nine are considered the most balanced and tend to be sweeter, while levels nine to 13 have the boldest profiles and pair especially well with milk.

Speaking of milk, your preference for it can also help guide your intensity choice. If you use dairy milk, reach for pods with an intensity of four or above. Soy and nut milks, with their strong flavor profiles, should be paired with intensities rated nine or higher. Oat milk is considered more neutral but it works best with higher-intensity coffee. Coconut milk enhances the cocoa notes in coffees around level eight or nine, like the Arpeggio or Altissio.

Finding the right pod might feel overwhelming at first, but there are plenty of ways to discover your perfect match. There's endless advice out there about the best and worst Nespresso pod flavors, and you can take a quiz online, test Nespresso pods at a store, or try a multipack. To get more bang for your buck, look for collections that come with free samples. It might take a little trial and error, but you'll be on your way to finding your perfect intensity in no time.