Convenience versus gourmet -which would you choose?

by chee Leng (on coffee makers)
(Singapore)

Sure, instant coffee can not be compared with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. But, what about the Single serve coffee market?

They boasted of hermetically sealed technology that sealed in the coffee flavor and aroma. And they promised the same quality of an espresso machine with their patented brewing technology.

So, the question is: Are they really as good as the espresso machine. Is the sealing technology really as good as freshly ground coffee?

Here is my $0.02

1. Experience

I don't know about you, but I simply don't have the time and energy to prepare a cuppa by grinding, tamping then waiting for an espresso.

It might be really be fantastic, but time is really a factor for me in the morning. I would rather catch up on latest news while sipping the coffee.

Single serve coffee maker allows me to do all that.

2. What about the "after math"

With single serve coffee maker, there is no worry. All I need to do is to throw away the spend cartridges or whatever you call them.

But, with any other coffee machines, I would need to flush them, wash them etc. It is pretty tiresome process.

3. Cost

Sure, single serve capsules does not come cheap. But, if you compare with the waste through lack of use or spoilage due to exposure for the coffee beans. The single serve might in fact be much cheaper.

4. The difference

And unless, you are really into cupping, can you really taste the difference whether it is single serve or freshly ground?

As I am writing this, I was wondering about the merit of a good cup of coffee. Should it really taste top notch or should it just make your life easier.

What is your take on this?