Which Nespresso Coffee Pods Have the Most Caffeine?

December 9, 2025 •

3 min read

While some might assume a coffee's 'intensity' rating directly corresponds to its caffeine content, Nespresso explicitly states this is not the case. The quantity of caffeine is primarily determined by the coffee bean variety—specifically the higher caffeine Robusta beans—and the coffee's blend and volume. This guide breaks down which Nespresso coffee pods have the most caffeine for both the Original and Vertuo lines.

Quick Summary

This article details the highest-caffeine Nespresso pods available for both Original and Vertuo machines. It clarifies that intensity ratings do not indicate caffeine levels and provides a comprehensive comparison of different pod varieties.

Key Points

Top Vertuo Pods: Melozio Boost and Stormio Boost pods offer the highest caffeine content in the Vertuo line, with 200mg per serving.
Highest Original Pod: The Kazaar pod is the most caffeinated option in the Original line, containing around 113mg.
Intensity vs. Caffeine: Nespresso's 'intensity' rating does not correlate directly with caffeine content. Caffeine levels are determined by bean type (Arabica vs. Robusta) and blend.
Robusta Beans for Power: Blends with a higher proportion of Robusta coffee beans, which contain more caffeine than Arabica, are generally more caffeinated.
Brew Size Matters: Vertuo pods typically contain more caffeine per serving than Original pods because they brew larger volumes of coffee.
Capsule Composition: Higher-caffeine pods, especially the 'Boost' varieties, may be infused with natural coffee extract to increase the caffeine concentration.

Understanding Nespresso's Caffeine Distribution

Nespresso's Original and Vertuo lines have distinctly different approaches to caffeine content, largely due to capsule size and extraction methods. The Vertuo system brews larger volumes of coffee, which naturally results in higher total caffeine per serving, even with similar concentrations per ounce. The bean type is another critical factor, as Robusta beans contain approximately double the caffeine of Arabica beans. This is a major reason why some seemingly less 'intense' pods can pack a bigger punch than darker roasts.

The Highest Caffeine Vertuo Pods

For those who use a Vertuo machine, the highest caffeine options are the 'Boost' varieties, designed for an extra kick. These capsules are often infused with additional coffee extract to increase the caffeine content. The standard Vertuo pods contain a wide range of caffeine depending on the intended size of the beverage, from espresso to a full mug.

Melozio Boost: This pod offers a massive 200mg of caffeine per 7.7-ounce mug, making it one of the most powerful options available. It is known for its smooth, balanced flavor with notes of honey and biscuit. It achieves its high caffeine level through a natural infusion process using coffee extract.
Stormio Boost: Also delivering 200mg of caffeine, the Stormio Boost is for those who prefer a richer, more robust flavor profile. It is described as having a woody and spicy aroma due to its dark roasted Central American Arabica beans.
Diavolitto: For a Vertuo espresso shot, the Diavolitto capsule stands out. With an intensity rating of 11, this pod provides a concentrated dose of caffeine in a smaller 40ml serving.

The Highest Caffeine Original Pods

Original line users seeking a high-caffeine experience typically look for blends that heavily feature Robusta beans. These are designed for smaller, more intense shots (ristretto or espresso) but still deliver a significant amount of caffeine relative to their size.

Kazaar: Often cited as the most caffeinated Original line pod, Kazaar contains around 113mg of caffeine per shot. Its powerful, intense flavor comes from a dark-roasted blend with a high Robusta content, delivering strong bitterness and peppery notes.
Cape Town Envivo Lungo: Designed for a larger 110ml lungo pour, this pod contains up to 110mg of caffeine, slightly less concentrated than Kazaar but still very high for its format. Its bold, woodsy flavor offers a more prolonged high-caffeine experience.
Napoli: This intense ristretto or espresso pod packs 109mg of caffeine. It is inspired by the thick, dark espressos of Naples, providing a syrupy texture and a potent, roasted flavor.

Comparison of High-Caffeine Nespresso Pods


Nespresso Pod	Line	Caffeine (mg)	Brew Size	Key Notes
Melozio Boost	Vertuo	~200	Mug (7.7 oz)	Smooth, balanced with honey/biscuit notes.
Stormio Boost	Vertuo	~200	Mug (7.7 oz)	Rich, woody, and spicy flavors.
Kazaar	Original	~113	Ristretto/Espresso	Powerful, intense, high Robusta content.
Cape Town Envivo Lungo	Original	~110	Lungo (3.7 oz)	Full-bodied, woody, herbaceous flavor.
Napoli	Original	~109	Ristretto/Espresso	Thick, syrupy mouthfeel, intense flavor.
Diavolitto	Vertuo	~150	Espresso (1.35 oz)	Very high intensity for a Vertuo espresso.
Arpeggio Extra	Original	~95	Ristretto/Espresso	Intense roast, with more caffeine than standard Arpeggio.

Choosing the Right High-Caffeine Pod for You

Your choice of pod will depend heavily on your machine type and flavor preference. If you own a Vertuo machine and need the absolute highest caffeine jolt, the 'Boost' pods are the clear winner. For Original line users, Kazaar is the strongest, delivering a potent dose in a small volume. If you prefer a longer drink, the Envivo Lungo is the best high-caffeine option. It is also important to remember that 'intensity' is not a reliable metric for caffeine content and that the amount of Robusta vs. Arabica coffee beans is the primary determinant.

Conclusion

For Nespresso users seeking the highest caffeine content, the Vertuo line's Melozio Boost and Stormio Boost pods are the top contenders, each delivering 200mg. For the Original line, the Kazaar pod leads with approximately 113mg per shot. It is crucial to check the specific pod details rather than relying solely on the intensity number, as the blend composition, especially the amount of high-caffeine Robusta beans, is what ultimately dictates the brew's stimulating power. This ensures you get the energy boost you expect with every cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

For Vertuo machines, the Melozio Boost and Stormio Boost pods have the highest caffeine, at 200mg each. For the Original line, the Kazaar pod has the most caffeine, with approximately 113mg.

No, Nespresso has stated that the intensity rating does not correspond to the amount of caffeine. Intensity refers to the coffee's bitterness, body, and degree of roasting.

Caffeine content depends on the type of beans used and the blend. Blends with a higher proportion of Robusta beans will contain more caffeine than those with primarily Arabica beans.

Generally, Vertuo pods contain more caffeine per serving because they are larger and brew more coffee. The Vertuo line's 'Boost' pods, in particular, reach up to 200mg, significantly higher than any Original pod.

The most caffeinated Original pods typically contain a high percentage of Robusta beans. Look for options like Kazaar (around 113mg), Cape Town Envivo Lungo (110mg), or Napoli (109mg).

Flavored pods do not inherently have less caffeine, but the flavor is added to a specific coffee blend. You should check the underlying coffee blend's specifications for its caffeine content, as some lighter, flavored options might use lower-caffeine beans.

You can select a pod known for its high caffeine content, like Kazaar or the Boost varieties. Using a ristretto extraction method for an Original pod can also result in a more concentrated shot, though not necessarily higher total caffeine.