A lungo is a longer coffee made with more water than an espresso. However, not every capsule delivers the same result. The right choice depends mainly on your coffee machine, preferred flavour strength and the number of cups you prepare at home or in the office.
When searching online for lungo coffee capsules, you will often see terms such as “intense”, “barista” or “rich crema”. These descriptions do not always tell you enough. So first check the objective product specifications.
Nespresso Original, L'OR Barista and Dolce Gusto use different systems. Coffee capsules for Nespresso are not automatically suitable for a Dolce Gusto machine. Always check which system is specified on the packaging or product page.
Also pay attention to the difference between Nespresso Original and other models. Some capsules are suitable for both Nespresso Original and L'OR Barista, while others are listed only for Dolce Gusto.
An intensity scale is mainly useful within a single brand. An intensity rating of 8 from one brand may not taste exactly the same as an 8 from another. So also look at:
If you are looking for strong lungo coffee, for example, you could choose a dark-roasted blend with Robusta. For a milder cup, a medium-roasted 100% Arabica capsule may be a better fit.
A box of 40 capsules may seem appealing for everyday use, but only if you enjoy the flavour. Work out the price per capsule and check the contents per capsule. A smaller pack is a practical way to try a flavour first.
Also store opened boxes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Seal the packaging properly to help preserve the aroma. Do not use capsules if the packaging is damaged, and check the best-before information on the label.
This is the first thing to check. The range includes, among others, the following systems:
Only use a capsule in a machine for which the manufacturer or product description confirms compatibility. A capsule that appears to fit physically may still have different flow or extraction characteristics.
Arabica Robusta coffee capsules generally combine the characteristics of both types of bean. In product descriptions, Arabica is often associated with soft or fruity notes, while Robusta is mentioned in connection with spicy, full-bodied blends. These are flavour descriptions, not a guarantee of an identical experience in every machine.
100% Arabica can be found in products including L'OR Lungo Elegante, Café Nova Lungo Profundo and Nescafé Lungo. Douwe Egberts Lungo Original and Lungo Strong specify a blend of Arabica and Robusta.
Check whether the pack contains, for example, 10, 16, 20, 30 or 40 capsules. Some product descriptions recommend a lungo setting of approximately 110 to 120 ml. Always follow your machine’s settings and the instructions on the packaging.
A capsule containing 5.2 grams of coffee cannot be directly compared with a pack that only states the total weight. For a fair price comparison, look at both the number of capsules and the net weight.
Why it suits this profile: A manageable pack of 16 capsules for trying a Dolce Gusto-compatible lungo without immediately stocking up on a large quantity.
The product information clearly states 16 capsules, 112 grams and suitability for Dolce Gusto. This makes the number of servings clear in advance.
16 servings, ground coffee as an ingredient and a straightforward choice for Dolce Gusto users.
Why it suits this profile: The multipack contains six boxes of 10 capsules and is intended for people who regularly prepare a lungo.
The choice is not based on a marketing term alone: the description states 100% Arabica, a 110 ml lungo preparation and compatibility.
100% Arabica, flavour notes of caramel and orange blossom according to the product description, plus 60 capsules in total.
Why it suits this profile: For Nespresso users looking for a dark roast and intensity 10 on a scale of 1 to 12, according to the product information.
The product page states the intensity, the 110 ml lungo setting and machine compatibility. This makes comparison easier.
20 capsules, a dark roast and an Arabica-Robusta blend according to the stated product specifications.
Why it suits this profile: The product description specifies decaffeinated coffee in 16 individually wrapped capsules for a Dolce Gusto machine.
The “Decaffeinato” designation and the mention of 16 servings make the intended use and quantity clear in advance.
Decaffeinated according to the product information, 16 capsules and individually sealed packaging.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
This varies by model. Products such as L'OR Lungo Elegante, Lavazza Espresso Lungo and various Douwe Egberts Lungo capsules are listed as suitable for Nespresso Original. Also check whether L'OR Barista is explicitly mentioned if you use that machine.
The exact best-before date is printed on the packaging. Unopened capsules generally stay fresher for longer when stored in a dry, cool place away from sunlight. After opening, well-sealed packaging helps preserve the aroma and quality.
That depends on the brand, pack size and number of capsules. Calculate the price per cup by dividing the total price by the number of capsules. Bear in mind that a lungo generally uses more water, but still uses one capsule per cup.