19 Oct Can I use an ESE Pod in an espresso machine?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions: can an ESE pod be used in an espresso machine? The answer is both Yes and No. From our perspective, we are leaning more towards the No, but let us provide you with the details so that you can make your own decision.

Why should you use an espresso coffee machine with ESE pods?

Many espresso machines state that they are compatible with ESE Pods measuring 44 mm. What is the advantage of using an espresso machine that can use pods when it already works with ground coffee?

Well, the ESE Pod is much more convenient and hygienic. By using an ESE pod, you can enjoy a good quality espresso (depending on the coffee in the pod), without the need to grind coffee or worry about fitting it into the portafilter. And most importantly, once you’ve finished drinking your espresso, you simply dispose of the used ESE Pod in the organic waste bin, leaving your portafilter clean without the need for washing.

In short, with the pod, you can have a good espresso with the convenience of a capsule. It’s not a joke.

So why don’t we recommend an espresso machine with ESE pods?

While the catalogues of espresso machine manufacturers may suggest that there is no problem using these machines with ESE pods instead of ground coffee, we decided to privately ask some of these manufacturers. Off the record, they confessed to us that using a pod with an espresso coffee machine is not the same as using an ESE pod coffee machine.

Furthermore, we came to the same conclusion years ago at Il Caffè di Francesco. That’s why when you order a Jamaica Blue Mountain espresso from us, we make it with a professional ESE pod coffee machine rather than one of the Cimbali or Astoria machines we have in our premises.

Now, let’s get into the technical explanation.

The reason is that in an espresso coffee machine, you have to use an adapter inside the portafilter. Even so, the ESE pod is not pressed sufficiently, and a small amount of water seeps out without passing through the ESE pod. The result is a slightly diluted coffee. It’s still good, but it’s not the same as a true espresso.

But as they say, every law has a loophole.

A few days ago, I came across this video. An Italian young man has found a way to make a good espresso with an ESE pod using an espresso coffee machine (Saeco brand). Essentially, you wet the pod with hot water so that it swells and doesn’t let the water pass through the pod. The result looks perfect. I highly recommend watching the video as it is very clear and informative.

Despite the cleverness of this solution, it doesn’t seem sufficient to us. An ESE 44mm pod should be as practical and easy to use as a capsule. This method adds an extra step that seems convoluted for those of us who are accustomed to using pod machines. That’s why we still don’t recommend espresso coffee makers for brewing coffee with an ESE pod, based on the manufacturers’ advice and our experience at Il Caffè di Francesco.

To summarize the topic:

It must be said that if you have an espresso machine and want to try using an ESE pod, this system is fantastic. You will be able to see for yourself that an ESE 44 mm pod can produce an espresso as good or even better than the one you prepare yourself. And all of this with less effort and cleaning.

It’s up to you to decide whether you should buy an ESE pod coffee machine right away or wait for your espresso maker to become obsolete. In the meantime, keep checking on our ESE Pods!

Post Data (October 2023):

We have received several opinions from people who own DeLonghi Dedica espresso coffee machines. They claim to be very happy and satisfied with the espresso they get using ESE pods.

DeLonghi is an Italian brand and a member of the Easy Serving Espresso consortium. Perhaps they have improved the adapters for ESE pods and achieved better results compared to other brands. If this is confirmed, it would be great news, and we would be willing to change our point of view. If you have a DeLonghi Dedica espresso machine and use ESE pods, please contact us. We would greatly appreciate your opinion.