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Learn & WatchSubmitOur content is meticulously curated through independent research, testing, reviews, and AI-driven recommendations, all designed to present you with the finest product choices. When you make a purchase through our links, it could result in us earning a commission.The Best Instant Coffees of 2024
Last updated: 29 Apr 2024In the hustle and bustle of modern life, instant coffee provides a quick caffeine fix and a comforting ritual. These convenient coffees are not only a time saver but also deliver a rich variety in terms of flavor profiles and strength. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the best instant coffees of 2024. We'll go over key factors such as taste, aroma, ease of preparation, and value for money. The standout option at the very top of our list is the VitaCup Focus Mushroom Coffee Instant Packets, offering a unique blend of taste and functionality. Read on to learn more about VitaCup's instant coffee and four more worthwhile options.
Our Top Picks For Instant Coffees
- Best Overall: VitaCup Focus Mushroom Instant Coffee Packets Shop Now ➔
- Best Taste: Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee Blonde Roast Packets Shop Now ➔
- Best Quality: Mount Hagen Single Serve Instant Coffee Packets Shop Now ➔
- Best Value: Nescafe Taster's Choice Light Roast Instant Coffee Packets Shop Now ➔
- Most Caffeinated: Death Wish Coffee Co. Dark Roast Instant Coffee Packets Shop Now ➔
- ['Best Overall for Quick Morning Fix', 'Best Overall for Travel and Outdoors', 'Best Overall Organic Instant Coffee']: Cartograph Organic Instant Coffee 30PK Shop Now ➔
View all ContentsThe Best Instant Coffees
Best Overall
Enhance your cognitive function naturally with VitaCup Focus Mushroom Coffee Instant Packets. These single-serve sticks are packed with a powerful blend of nutrients and delicious coffee to boost your optimum brain performance.
Designed specifically for cognitive function enhancement, VitaCup Focus contains a unique combination of ingredients, including fiber, Chaga and lion’s mane mushrooms, D3, and B vitamins. These carefully selected components support memory, clarity, and overall mental sharpness.
Not only does it deliver impressive cognitive benefits, but it also ensures convenience for busy individuals. We love that the single-serve sticks are perfect for mid-day coffee cravings, allowing you to enjoy a cup of high-quality medium-roast coffee wherever you go. No more brewing and waiting — just tear open a packet, mix it with hot water, and savor the rich aroma and taste. Plus, it’s made from 100% Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, ensuring a bold and flavorful experience with every sip.
Enhance your cognitive function naturally with VitaCup Focus Mushroom Coffee Instant Coffee! These single-serve packets are packed with a powerful blend of nutrients and delicious coffee to boost your optimum brain performance. Designed specifically for cognitive function enhancement, VitaCup Focus contains a unique combination of ingredients, including fiber, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, D3, and B vitamins. These carefully selected components support memory, clarity, and overall mental sharpness.
Not only does it deliver impressive cognitive benefits, but it also ensures convenience for busy individuals. The single-serve sticks are perfect for mid-day coffee cravings, allowing you to enjoy a cup of high-quality medium-roast coffee wherever you go. No more brewing and waiting; just tear open a packet, mix it with hot water, and savor the rich aroma and taste. The expertly roasted blend delivers a smooth and balanced taste, making it the best instant coffee on this list.
Pros
- Provides cognitive support
- Provides energy boost
- Easy to prepare
Cons
- Not flavorful enough for some
Best Taste
Starbucks’ VIA Instant Coffee Blonde Roast Packets are designed to bring you the Starbucks flavor you love, conveniently packaged in easy-to-use instant coffee packets. The inspiration behind this blend comes from those lightly roasted coffees enjoyed on breezy verandas surrounded by lush coffee trees.
But don’t let the light roast fool you — this coffee is flavorful. With notes of toasted sweet malt and milk chocolate, each sip is a delightful treat for your taste buds. It’s a coffee that invites you in and makes you feel at home, perfect for relaxing or starting your day on the right foot.
What really impressed us was how versatile this blend is. It mixes well with milk, allowing you to create your customized coffee creations. Whether you prefer a creamy latte, a frothy cappuccino, or a simple cup of coffee with a splash of milk, these Starbucks instant coffee packets have got you covered.
Introducing the Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee Blonde Roast Packets, designed to bring you the Starbucks flavor you love, conveniently packaged in easy-to-use instant coffee packets. Imagine sipping on a cup of coffee that captures the essence of Latin American coffee farms, where Starbucks has been working closely with farmers for decades. The inspiration behind this blend comes from those lightly roasted coffees enjoyed on breezy verandas surrounded by lush coffee trees.
But don’t let the light roast fool you – this coffee is flavorful. With notes of toasted sweet malt and milk chocolate, each sip is a delightful treat for your taste buds. It’s a coffee that invites you in and makes you feel at home, perfect for relaxing or starting your day on the right foot.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Includes 50 packets
- Flavorful blend
Cons
- Expensive price point
Best Quality
Experience the rich and full-bodied taste of Mount Hagen Single Serve Instant Coffee Packets, a coffee that doesn’t taste like instant. The advanced freeze-drying process preserves the deep flavors and aromas of fresh Arabica beans, delivering a wonderfully smooth and satisfying cup of coffee. Whether you’re miles away from a coffee shop or craving a quick pick-me-up, this instant coffee dissolves beautifully in cold water or milk for a refreshing iced coffee.
Conveniently packaged in single-serve sticks, these packets are perfect for on-the-go coffee lovers. Throw them in your backpack, briefcase, or keep them on your office desk for a coffee fix whenever you need it. Say goodbye to lugging around bulky equipment and cleaning up afterward. Plus, the award-winning instant coffee has consistently topped lists of organic coffees. Made from 100% USDA Organic, Fairtrade Arabica beans, it’s also gluten-free and certified OU Kosher. Since 1986, Mount Hagen has been perfecting our craft to bring you a naturally mild-tasting coffee with low acidity and no bitterness. And we were happy to see that with every purchase, Mount Hagen supports fair pay for workers, thriving families, and empowered communities.
Introducing the Mount Hagen Instant Coffee Packets! This eco-friendly and convenient product is perfect for coffee lovers who crave great taste in an instant. Made from organic medium roast Arabica beans, this instant coffee is delicious and fair-trade certified.
With 25 individual packets per pack, you’ll never run out of your favorite pick-me-up. The convenient pouch design ensures freshness and easy storage, making it a perfect home, office, or travel companion. Don’t compromise on flavor or quality; choose Mount Hagen for the best instant coffee experience!
Pros
- Convenient and portable
- Rich, full-bodied taste
- Great value
Cons
- Not strong enough for some
Best Value
These Nescafe Taster’s Choice Light Roast Instant Coffee Packets are ideal for anyone for convenience and flavorful coffee.
Made from 100% pure, responsibly sourced coffee beans, these packets deliver a smooth and mild roasted instant coffee experience. And you can say goodbye to the hassle of roasting and grinding, as this instant coffee provides fresh-tasting, consistent brews without any extra effort.
Crafted by skilled master coffee crafters, premium coffee beans are meticulously roasted and brewed perfectly. To preserve the well-balanced flavor, the coffee is then flash-frozen. Plus, the package comes with 60 packets at an unbeatable price, making this a great option for anyone on a budget. From our team’s read-through of reviews, we found that customers enjoy the taste, quality, and ease of use these instant coffee packets provide.
Introducing the NESCAFE Instant Coffee Packets, Taster’s Choice Light Roast! This is the perfect product if you’re looking for convenience and flavorful coffee. Made from 100% pure, responsibly sourced coffee beans, NESCAFE Taster’s Choice House Blend Coffee Stick Packs deliver a smooth and mild roasted instant coffee experience.
Say goodbye to the hassle of roasting and grinding, as this instant coffee provides fresh-tasting, consistent brews without any extra effort. Crafted by skilled Master Coffee Crafters, premium coffee beans are meticulously roasted and brewed perfectly. To preserve the well-balanced flavor, the coffee is then flash-frozen. Every cup offers an unmatched taste sensation.
Pros
- Sustainably sourced
- Incredible value
- Rich flavor
Cons
- Packets are a bit small
Most Caffeinated
You’ll enjoy the ultimate jolt of energy with the Death Wish Coffee Co. Dark Roast Instant Coffee Packets. Packed with an extra caffeine kick, this bold and intense blend of Arabica and Robusta beans will give you the strongest caffeine boost you’ve ever had. Each box contains eight single-serve packets, ensuring you always have a quick and convenient caffeine fix.
Made from USDA organic powder, this instant coffee delivers 300 milligrams of caffeine per serving, providing the perfect lift to kickstart your day. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student burning the midnight oil, or an adventurer needing a pick-me-up, Death Wish Coffee Instant Coffee Dark Roast has got you covered. And after reading through a few customer reviews, we found that users were very pleased with the energizing effects these highly caffeinated packets provide.
Experience the ultimate jolt of energy with Death Wish Coffee Instant Coffee Dark Roast. Packed with an extra caffeine kick, this bold and intense blend of Arabica and Robusta beans will give you the strongest caffeine boost you’ve ever had. Each box contains eight single-serve packets, ensuring you always have a quick and convenient caffeine fix.
Made from USDA organic powder, this instant coffee delivers 300mg of caffeine per serving, providing the perfect lift to kickstart your day. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student burning the midnight oil, or an adventurer needing a pick-me-up, Death Wish Coffee Instant Coffee Dark Roast has got you covered. Say goodbye to sluggish mornings and hello to boundless energy with this potent and invigorating instant coffee. Get ready to conquer the day like a boss!
Pros
- Smooth and well-rounded flavor
- Fair trade organic
- High caffeine content
Cons
- High price point for eight packets
[‘Best Overall for Quick Morning Fix’, ‘Best Overall for Travel and Outdoors’, ‘Best Overall Organic Instant Coffee’]
([‘Best Overall for Quick Morning Fix’, ‘Best Overall for Travel and Outdoors’, ‘Best Overall Organic Instant Coffee’])-Cartograph Organic Instant Coffee Packets Single Serve swiftly delivers a great tasting cup of coffee, making it the best overall for a quick morning fix. It’s medium roast espresso blend imparts a rich flavor and a smooth finish, which will be appreciated by any coffee connoisseur. Each serving comes in an individual packet, making the preparation process uncomplicated. All you need to do is tear, pour, stir and savor the perfectly brewed instant coffee. The freeze-drying technology utilized preserves the original taste and aroma, offering an authentic coffee experience in an instant.
Moreover, Cartograph Organic Instant Coffee stands out as the best overall for travel and outdoors. Its compact and lightweight design ensures that you can enjoy a robust cup of coffee, wherever your adventures may take you. Just add hot water, and you’re good to go. Additionally, it’s the best overall organic instant coffee on the market. The coffee beans are organically grown, assuring that there are no chemical pesticides or fertilizers used. These eco-friendly practices not only promote a healthier environment but also contribute to the great taste. Switch to Cartograph Organic Instant Coffee Packets and enjoy a gourmet instant coffee experience at your convenience.
Pros
- 1. High-quality taste
- 2. Quick and easy to prepare
- 3. Convenient for travel or on-the-go
- 4. Supports a small business
- 5. Organic and all-natural
- 6. Good value for money
- 7. No creamer necessary
- 8. Enjoyable without any sweetener
- 9. Smooth and delicious medium roast
Cons
- Taste is too bitter for some
- Packaging is hard to open
Key Features
- Medium roast instant coffee in single serve sticks
- Freeze dried for extended shelf life
- Simple preparation with hot water
- Pure, chemical-free coffee powder
- Sourced from organic coffee beans
- Suitable for a variety of coffee drinks
- Designed for convenience and portability
Instant Coffee: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
If you enjoy your morning cup of coffee but don’t always have time to brew a pot, you should consider instant coffee. Simply add hot water and boom — you have your cup of joe. Of course, with so many varieties out there, it can be hard to know what you need. Luckily, this buyer’s guide is here to help. We’ll review the crucial factors you should keep in mind while shopping for instant coffee.
Brand Reputation
Consider brands with a solid reputation in the coffee industry. Well-established brands often have a strong commitment to quality and consistent flavor profiles.
Roasting Method
Different roasting methods, such as light, medium, and dark roast, can significantly impact the flavor of the instant coffee. If you’re unsure, look for a variety sampler option to help you figure out which roast you like the most.
Coffee Bean Quality
Quality beans directly impact the taste and aroma of instant coffee. Be sure to choose an instant coffee that uses high-quality beans from renowned coffee-growing regions.
Aroma and Flavor Profile
Every instant coffee has its unique aroma and flavor profile. Some may offer a nutty, chocolatey, or fruity taste, while others may have a more intense or mild flavor. Consider your personal preferences when selecting the desired aroma and flavor notes.
Caffeine Content
If you prefer an energizing kick or can’t handle much caffeine, check the content of your instant coffee. Many brands offer a wide variety of caffeine levels to cater to different energy requirements.
Sustainability Practices
If sustainability is something that’s important to you, choose brands that prioritize environmentally-friendly practices. Look for certifications or initiatives that support fair trade, responsible sourcing, or eco-friendly packaging.
Added Ingredients or Flavors
Some instant coffees may have added ingredients or flavors, such as vanilla, caramel, vitamins, or even mushrooms for focusing. Consider if you prefer a pure coffee taste or are open to exploring different flavor combinations.
Level of Bitterness or Acidity
Take note of the level of bitterness or acidity offered by different instant coffees. Some brands may have a milder taste, while others may provide a more robust and bold flavor profile.
Customer Reviews
It’s always helpful to take some time to read reviews and ratings from other customers. This will provide more insight into the overall satisfaction and experiences of users who have actually tried out the instant coffee option you’re looking at.
Instant Coffee FAQs
How do I prepare instant coffee?
To prepare instant coffee, simply mix the desired amount of coffee powder with hot water and stir until the mix is fully dissolved.
How should I store instant coffee?
Instant coffee should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture, heat, and sunlight.
What is the shelf life of instant coffee?
The shelf life of instant coffee varies depending on the brand and packaging. Typically, it can last anywhere from one to two years.
Is instant coffee less flavorful than freshly brewed coffee?
Instant coffee may have a slightly different taste than freshly brewed coffee, but can still provide a convenient and enjoyable coffee experience.
How much caffeine does instant coffee contain?
The caffeine content in instant coffee can vary depending on factors such as the brand, the type of coffee beans used, and the serving size. On average, a cup (about 8 ounces) of instant coffee contains approximately 30-90 milligrams of caffeine. Of course, some instant coffee brands also offer decaffeinated options for those who prefer to limit their caffeine intake.
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