6 Best Nespresso Decaf Capsules of 2026

Bold, unapologetically intense, the Fortado Decaffeinato delivers a robusta-driven powerhouse experience that defies the typical mellow expectations of decaf. With an intensity rating of 8 and a split-roast process that carefully tempers Indian Robusta’s sharpness while amplifying Colombian Arabica’s cocoa and oak depth, this Gran Lungo offers a rare fusion of thickness and nuance. Coffee drinkers who crave a lingering, espresso-length pleasure without caffeine will find it hits hard and finishes clean—perfect for midday slumps when you need focus without jitters.

In real-world testing, the 5.0 fl. oz. Gran Lungo brew shines on the Vertuo machine, producing a thick, velvety crema that’s uncommon in decaf pods—thanks to robusta’s natural crema-boosting properties. The medium-temperature long roast ensures no burnt bitterness, instead coaxing out a balanced, full-bodied profile that stands up well black or with a splash of oat milk. However, its strength can overwhelm delicate palates, and the 30-count pack offers fewer servings than other options, making it less ideal for high-volume households.

Compared to the milder Melozio Decaffeinato, Fortado is the bold alternative for dark roast loyalists who don’t want to sacrifice intensity when going decaf. While Melozio leans sweet and approachable, Fortado stakes its claim on depth and density, positioning itself as the go-to for those who treat decaf like a serious espresso extension. It doesn’t match the sheer volume of the 50-count Original Line pods, but in flavor authority and roast complexity, it outperforms many in its class.

Uncompromising and deeply aromatic, the Ristretto Decaffeinato Italiano stands as the definitive choice for purists who refuse to let decaf mean dull. With an intensity of 10—the highest on Nespresso’s scale—this pod unleashes a bold, roasty punch balanced by soft cocoa notes, achieved through a slow split roast of decaffeinated Arabica and Robusta beans. It’s engineered for those who want authentic Italian espresso character without caffeine, delivering a concentrated 1.35 fl. oz. jolt that’s as rich in tradition as it is in flavor.

During daily use, the Ristretto Decaffeinato proves its mettle in milk-based drinks, where its contrast bouquet cuts through steamed milk to create a velvety macchiato or cappuccino without fading into background noise. The 50-count pack offers excellent longevity, making it a workhorse for frequent users, and the 0.845 fl. oz. ristretto option adds versatility for tighter, more concentrated sips. That said, its aggressive roast may overwhelm those seeking a smoother, more approachable decaf.

When stacked against the Arpeggio Decaffeinato, both share the Original Line’s intense DNA, but Ristretto pushes further into roasty, smoky territory, while Arpeggio leans creamier. It’s less balanced than Volluto but more commanding than any mild roast. For espresso lovers who want maximum impact per ounce, this pod delivers authority and authenticity in a compact, caffeine-free package.

Gentle yet gratifying, the Volluto Decaffeinato redefines what decaf can be—smooth, sweet, and effortlessly drinkable without sacrificing authenticity. With a low intensity of 4 and a split-roasted blend of carefully decaffeinated beans, it delivers a light, round profile that’s rich in balance and perfect for morning rituals or afternoon wind-downs. This is the rare decaf that doesn’t feel like a compromise, offering a clean, bright finish that appeals to those turned off by the bitterness of darker roasts.

In practice, the 1.35 fl. oz. brew works beautifully as a standalone black coffee, highlighting its honeyed smoothness and subtle sweetness—qualities that remain intact even when paired with almond milk. The 50-count pack ensures lasting value, and its Original Line compatibility makes it a seamless fit for longtime Nespresso users. However, its mild character doesn’t carry well in large milky drinks, where it can get lost compared to bolder options like Ristretto or Altissio.

Compared to the Fortado Decaffeinato, Volluto is its polar opposite in intensity, trading power for finesse. While Fortado dominates the palate, Volluto invites sipping and savoring, making it ideal for sensitive palates or those easing into espresso. It lacks the drama of high-intensity roasts, but in drinkability and consistency, it outshines them—especially for those who prioritize a gentle caffeine-free experience over boldness.

Luxuriously creamy and deeply satisfying, the Altissio Decaffeinato sets a new benchmark for decaf espresso indulgence, wrapping bold flavor in a silky, cereal-kissed finish. With an intensity of 9 and a dark, short roast of premium Arabicas, it produces a thick, velvety crema that’s exceptionally rare in decaf—making each 1.35 fl. oz. pour feel like a barista-crafted treat. This is the pod for those who want richness and texture without caffeine, delivering a roasty, full-bodied punch that lingers with elegance.

In real-world testing, the Vertuo machine extracts every nuance, yielding a dense, aromatic shot that stands strong black or enhances a flat white with its cereal and toast-like sweetness. The 50-count pack offers excellent long-term value, and the flavor remains consistent across brews. However, its premium price tag makes it one of the costliest per-pod options, and the Vertuo-only compatibility limits accessibility for Original Line users.

Against the Original Line’s Arpeggio Decaffeinato, Altissio matches it in intensity but elevates the sensory experience with superior crema and mouthfeel. While Arpeggio is creamy, Altissio feels more decadent and layered, justifying its place as the best creamy espresso choice. It doesn’t offer large cup sizes like Melozio, but in shot-for-shot luxury and depth, it’s unmatched among decaf Vertuo pods.

Bold, aromatic, and unmistakably Italian, the Arpeggio Decaffeinato captures the soul of Florence in a 1.35 fl. oz. espresso—intense, rounded, and deeply satisfying without a trace of caffeine. With an intensity of 9 and a split-roasted blend of Brazilian and Costa Rican Arabicas, it delivers a creamy, full-bodied profile that’s both powerful and polished. This is the go-to for espresso purists who want authentic Italian richness in decaf form, offering a complex, lingering finish with every pull.

In daily use, it performs exceptionally well across the Original Line machines, producing a consistent, aromatic shot with a velvety crema that holds up beautifully in macchiatos and lattes. The 50-count pack makes it a reliable staple, and its balanced roast avoids the ashy bitterness that plagues lesser decafs. That said, it lacks the cocoa depth of Ristretto and doesn’t offer the longer brew options of Vertuo pods, limiting versatility for those who prefer larger cups.

Compared to Altissio Decaffeinato, Arpeggio shares a similar intensity but delivers a drier, less creamy body, making it less indulgent despite its richness. It’s more accessible than Vertuo-exclusive options and outperforms milder roasts in depth and presence. For espresso lovers who want heritage, intensity, and reliability, this pod strikes the perfect balance—just without the luxurious mouthfeel of its Vertuo rivals.

Harmonious and refreshingly balanced, the Melozio Decaffeinato is a masterclass in medium-roast finesse, blending honeyed sweetness with a classic cereal note in a way few decaf pods can match. With an intensity of 6 and a split roast of Brazilian Bourbon and other Arabicas, it delivers a smooth, approachable profile that’s neither too light nor too aggressive—ideal for all-day sipping. This is the pod for those who want flavor clarity without caffeine, offering a clean, rounded finish that’s easy to love.

In practice, the 7.77 fl. oz. serving stands out as one of the few true large-cup decaf options in the Vertuo lineup, making it perfect for morning routines or afternoon pick-me-ups. The medium roast extracts evenly, producing a well-balanced, aromatic cup that shines with or without milk—especially when paired with oat milk, which enhances its biscuity warmth. However, the 30-count pack means more frequent reordering, and its moderate intensity won’t satisfy those craving a darker, bolder hit.

Against the Fortado Decaffeinato, Melozio trades power for drinkability and length, making it the best balanced flavor choice for those who prefer sustained sipping over espresso intensity. While Fortado dominates in strength, Melozio wins in versatility and smoothness, especially for larger cup lovers. It doesn’t match the per-pod value of 50-count packs, but in flavor harmony and sessionability, it’s a standout.