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Choosing Americano coffee: from ready-to-drink options to a coffee machine for your home

An Americano coffee is traditionally made with espresso and hot water. However, the name is also used for ready-to-drink beverages, instant coffee and capsules. This can make it difficult to compare products: a sweet coffee sachet has a different composition and drinking experience from a black Americano made with an espresso machine.

The right choice depends on when you want to drink your coffee, how much preparation you’re happy to do, and whether you value having control over its flavour and strength.

Three common pitfalls when choosing Americano coffee

1. The name doesn’t tell you everything about the flavour

A product labelled “Americano” may contain sugar, flavourings or milk ingredients. Always check the ingredients and nutritional information.

  • Black Americano coffee: check the sugar content and whether flavourings have been added.
  • Sweet Americano coffee: compare the amount of carbohydrates and sugars per 100 ml.
  • Coffee sachets: check whether you’re buying a ready-to-drink portion or powder.
  • Instant Americano coffee: check the recommended amount of water, as this partly determines how strong the drink will be.

For example, according to the product information, CAFFE BENE Americano Coffee Drink contains sugar, coffee bean extract and coffee powder. The vanilla version also contains sugar and flavourings. This is different from a product made with coffee powder alone.

2. A machine won’t necessarily suit your routine

A coffee machine for making Americano may have a dedicated Americano button, while with other machines you’ll need to add hot water to an espresso yourself. Also consider the machine’s dimensions, water tank, bean capacity and cleaning requirements.

A large semi-automatic machine is a good option if you make coffee regularly and want to adjust how it’s prepared. For the occasional cup, portions or instant coffee are often simpler.

3. ‘Coffee capsules’ aren’t universal

Americano coffee capsules only work with a compatible system. Nescafé Dolce Gusto capsules are designed for Dolce Gusto machines. According to the product information, Douwe Egberts Excellent Gold Lungo capsules are compatible with L’OR Barista and Nespresso Original machines.

Before buying, check:

  1. The exact machine system.
  2. Whether the capsule is intended for a lungo, coffee or espresso.
  3. The number of capsules in the pack.
  4. Whether the machine can also dispense hot water to make a longer Americano.

Important specifications to consider before buying

Preparation method and quantity

First, choose between four practical options:

  • Ready-to-drink coffee: ready to drink and handy when you’re out and about. Options include sachets and 190 or 230 ml bottles.
  • Instant coffee: lightweight and easy to take with you. SLAB TOWN sticks contain 2.8 grams per serving; the preparation instructions recommend 200 ml of water.
  • Capsules or pods: quick and consistent, but you’ll need the right system.
  • Fresh beans with a semi-automatic machine: gives you more control over the grind, quantity and water, but takes time and needs maintenance.

Bear in mind that the product name and packaging may differ from the information on a sales page. Check the packaging before drinking, especially for the contents, best-before date, ingredients and allergens.

Sugar, flavourings and ingredients

If you’re looking for a straightforward black Americano, compare products with a short ingredients list. McNulty Ice Americano Black lists water, coffee extract and instant coffee among its ingredients. According to the available nutritional information, one 190 ml sachet contains 10 kcal and 0 grams of sugar.

Sweet versions are different. Cantabile Sweet Americano lists 7.8 grams of sugar per 100 ml. Based on the stated figures, a 230 ml pack contains around 18 grams of sugar. This makes it a better choice for anyone who deliberately prefers sweeter coffee than for those looking for an unsweetened drink.

Compatibility, size and maintenance

When choosing a machine, these details are useful to consider:

  • Water tank: a larger tank means fewer refills.
  • Bean hopper: useful if you make several cups a day.
  • Portafilter size: the Philips Barista Brew uses a 58 mm portafilter.
  • Grind settings: according to the product information, the Philips Barista Brew has 15 grind settings.
  • Americano function: check whether hot water is added automatically.
  • Worktop space: the Philips Barista Brew is 33.4 cm long, 32 cm wide and 41 cm high.
  • Cleaning: parts such as the portafilter, drip tray and milk frothing wand need regular cleaning.
Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
SLAB TOWN American freeze-dried instant coffee powder, 12 sticks

SLAB TOWN American Freeze-Dried Instant Coffee Powder, 2.8g x 12 Pods

Why it suits this profile: Individual sticks are easy to use at home, at work or on the go. All you need is around 200 ml of hot or cold water.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The serving size and preparation instructions are clearly stated. The ingredients list says 100% coffee powder, with no added sugar.

Key benefit & highlights

12 sticks of 2.8 grams; suitable for hot or cold water; no need to check machine compatibility.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Philips Barista Brew PSA3218/01 semi-automatic espresso machine

PHILIPS Barista Brew, PSA3218/01

Why it suits this profile: For coffee drinkers who want to set the grind and strength themselves and use freshly ground beans.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The machine has a dedicated Americano button and an integrated hot water function, so you’re not limited to capsules.

Key benefit & highlights

250 g bean hopper; 2,300 ml water tank; 15 grind settings; 58 mm portafilter.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users
Douwe Egberts Excellent Gold Lungo coffee capsules

Douwe Egberts Excellent Gold Lungo Coffee Capsules - 20 pcs

Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for households that make several cups a day using a compatible capsule machine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifically lists compatibility with Nespresso Original and L’OR Barista. Even so, check that it works with your specific machine.

Key benefit & highlights

20 capsules; intensity 7 on a scale of 1 to 12; suitable for Americano and lungo.

Suitable for: Iced coffee lovers
McNulty Ice Americano Black 190ml

McNulty Café Mcnulty Ice Americano Black 190ml

Why it suits this profile: A ready-to-drink portion for when you’re out and about, with no need for hot water, a machine or extra accessories.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The quantity is stated for each sachet. According to the product information, the black version contains 0 grams of sugar per 190 ml.

Key benefit & highlights

190 ml per pouch; country of origin: South Korea; store away from direct sunlight.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about Americano coffee

What’s the difference between an Americano and regular black coffee?

An Americano is traditionally made with espresso and hot water. Regular black coffee is usually brewed using a filter method. Capsules, instant coffee and ready-to-drink options can have a similar coffee style, but they aren’t always prepared in the same way.

How do you make an Americano with an espresso machine?

First, make an espresso. Then add hot water, either by hand or using the machine’s Americano button. The ideal ratio depends on your taste. With a semi-automatic machine, also check whether the hot water wand and brew group need cleaning after use.

How much does Americano coffee for home cost?

It depends on which type you choose. Instant and ready-to-drink coffee need little preparation, while capsules have an ongoing cost per cup. A machine that uses fresh beans has a higher upfront cost, plus the cost of beans, descaler and maintenance. So, compare not only the price of the machine but also how many cups you expect to make each week.