Last Updated on May 25, 2022 by John Moretti
When it comes to making a steaming cup of coffee, nothing beats the convenience of capsule coffee. Many brands, such as Nescafe and Lavazza, produce coffee capsules for their machines. However, many consumers wonder how these capsules compare to one another!
Both Dolce Gusto and Lavazza coffee capsules are readily available, well-priced, and recyclable. However, Dolce Gusto capsules are only compatible with Dolce Gusto machines. Lavazza produces capsules for their devices and capsules that are compatible with Dolce Gusto machines.
From compatibility to recyclability, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about Dolce Gusto and Lavazza coffee capsules. By comparing these products, you can choose the suitable coffee capsules for your needs!

Dolce Gusto Vs. Lavazza Coffee Capsules
Coffee capsules provide a single dose of coffee, typically a quarter ounce of coffee powder. Coffee capsules are identified by their protective casings made from plastic or aluminum. However, some coffee capsules are better than others!
We’re going to compare Dolce Gusto and Lavazza coffee capsules. Our comparisons will highlight the differences between these capsules, from compatibility to recyclability. In turn, this will allow you to choose suitable coffee capsules for your needs!
Compatibility
When comparing different coffee capsules, machine compatibility is a crucial consideration. Coffee machines made by certain manufacturers are often compatible with specific pods. Nescafe manufactures Dolce Gusto coffee machines. Many Dolce Gusto capsules produced by Nescafe are made explicitly for the Dolce Gusto machines.
When it comes down to Lavazza, many Lavazza capsules are only compatible with its Lavazza coffee machines. However, Lavazza also produces a range of coffee capsules compatible with Dolce Gusto machines, except for the Melody I model.
Of course, this means you can use both Dolce Gusto and Lavazza capsules with Dolce Gusto machines. However, Nescafe’s Dolce Gusto capsules are not compatible with the coffee machines manufactured by Lavazza. In terms of compatibility, Lavazza’s wide range shines!
Availability
In terms of availability, Dolce Gusto and Lavazza capsules are tied. You can buy these products in-store. However, it is also possible to order these products from Dolce Gusto or Lavazza’s official websites. Both types are also readily available from online retailers, such as Amazon.
Flavors
Nescafe produces a wide variety of capsules for Dolce Gusto machines, including a few surprising collaborations. Of course, there are classic capsules, such as Americano, Cappuccino, and Flat White. However, there are also tea and chocolate-based capsules available to consumers
With Dolce Gusto’s Starbucks capsules, consumers can consider even more flavors. This includes Starbucks Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, and Caramel Macchiato capsules. As we explained above, Lavazza also produces ones that are compatible with Dolce Gusto machines, excluding Melody I models.
In terms of Lavazza’s Dolce Gusto-compatible pods, there are many capsules available to purchase. These include Espresso capsules in a wide variety of intensities. If you like to control the intensity of your coffee, you’ll love these compatible pods from Lavazza.
For Lavazza coffee machines, there are many capsules to choose from. Like the Lavazza capsules mentioned above, customers can browse via coffee intensity. From Devino to Passionale to Intenso, there are many capsules available. Unfortunately, Dolce Gusto capsules will not be compatible with Lavazza machines.
Cost
In terms of cost, Dolce Gusto and Lavazza capsules have similar prices. However, Lavazza capsules are generally slightly cheaper than Dolce Gusto capsules. Normally, Lavazza capsules cost around $0.55 each, while Dolce Gusto pods cost approximately $0.69 each.
Of course, this will vary depending on the pack size and any discounts. There are always great deals for these capsules.
Reviews

We previously mentioned the fact that Lavazza produces coffee capsules that are compatible with Dolce Gusto machines. Due to this, some consumers will have a choice between these two brands. Unfortunately, for those with Lavazza machines, only Lavazza capsules are compatible.
Dolce Gusto coffee machine owners may wonder which capsule is the best. Well, let’s consider what coffee drinkers around the world have had to say about these capsules. First, let’s look at Dolce Gusto capsules.
Many reviewers have praised Nescafe’s Dolce Gusto capsules for great taste, smooth flavors, and value for money. Nescafe’s partnership with Starbucks to produce coffee for Dolce Gusto machines has also proved popular. Many reviewers have praised these capsules for giving them the great taste of Starbucks at home.
Reviews of Lavazza pods have praised the distinct flavor of each coffee. Many of these reviews also praise the affordability of Lavazza coffee capsules, which are slightly cheaper than Dolce Gusto capsules. In fact, many consumers have referred to Lavazza’s compatible capsules as the most affordable alternative to Dolce Gusto capsules!
Recyclability

As we mentioned earlier, coffee capsules are made from plastic or aluminum. Due to this, many consumers are worried about the environmental impact of these capsules. Thanks to organizations like Terra Cycle, consumers can now recycle their used capsules.
Dolce Gusto and Lavazza capsules can both be recycled through these programs. These capsules are turned into pellets, which can be used in the manufacturing of new products, such as benches. When recycling capsules, it’s essential to keep capsules from the same brand together.
You can find a local drop-off location near you through an organization like Terra Cycle. Then, once you’ve collected your used coffee capsules, you can drop them off to be sorted, shredded, and melted down!
Conclusion
Lavazza and Dolce Gusto coffee capsules are readily available from retailers and are both recyclable through initiatives like Terra Cycle. In general, the products made by Lavazza are more affordable than those made by Nescafe. However, there are more flavors available for Dolce Gusto machines.
In terms of compatibility, Dolce Gusto capsules are only compatible with Dolce Gusto machines. While Lavazza produces capsules compatible with Lavazza machines, the company also produces a range of compatible capsules that can be used with most Dolce Gusto machines. Consumers have praised both Dolce Gusto and Lavazza capsules.