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.
A product labelled “Americano” may contain sugar, flavourings or milk ingredients. Always check the ingredients and nutritional information.
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.
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.
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:
First, choose between four practical options:
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.
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.
When choosing a machine, these details are useful to consider:
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.
The serving size and preparation instructions are clearly stated. The ingredients list says 100% coffee powder, with no added sugar.
12 sticks of 2.8 grams; suitable for hot or cold water; no need to check machine compatibility.
Why it suits this profile: For coffee drinkers who want to set the grind and strength themselves and use freshly ground beans.
The machine has a dedicated Americano button and an integrated hot water function, so you’re not limited to capsules.
250 g bean hopper; 2,300 ml water tank; 15 grind settings; 58 mm portafilter.
Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for households that make several cups a day using a compatible capsule machine.
The product information specifically lists compatibility with Nespresso Original and L’OR Barista. Even so, check that it works with your specific machine.
20 capsules; intensity 7 on a scale of 1 to 12; suitable for Americano and lungo.
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.
The quantity is stated for each sachet. According to the product information, the black version contains 0 grams of sugar per 190 ml.
190 ml per pouch; country of origin: South Korea; store away from direct sunlight.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
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.
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.
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.