10 Best Instant Coffee Brands 2025 in the United States

NESCAFÉ Taster's Choice Instant Coffee Light Medium Roast, House Blend offers a smooth and well-balanced flavor. With its light to medium roast, this coffee is suitable for those who prefer a milder cup. The coffee is made from high-quality beans sourced from various regions worldwide, ensuring a consistent and premium taste.

The granules dissolve quickly in hot water, making it incredibly easy to prepare a cup of coffee without the need for brewing equipment. Each jar can make up to 105 cups, giving you great value for money with a total of 210 cups from the two jars provided. This is particularly beneficial for frequent coffee drinkers or households with multiple coffee enthusiasts.

The packaging is practical, with two jars that are easy to store and use. NESCAFÉ Taster's Choice is a convenient and reliable choice for instant coffee lovers who seek a smooth flavor and ease of preparation.

Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee offers a convenient solution for those who want the taste of Starbucks coffee at home or on the go. The French Roast flavor is intense and smoky, which is perfect for those who enjoy a robust cup of coffee. Made from 100% Arabica beans, the quality of the coffee is high, adhering to the standards Starbucks is known for. These beans are carefully roasted and ethically sourced, which is a great plus for the environmentally conscious consumer. The packaging comes in convenient single-serve packets, making it easy to measure and brew without any hassle.

However, some coffee enthusiasts may find the flavor too intense or burnt, as French Roast is one of the darkest roasts available. Also, while the convenience is a major advantage, instant coffee generally doesn't provide the same depth of flavor as freshly ground coffee. The product is caffeinated, giving you that needed boost, but the intensity might not be suitable for everyone, especially those who prefer lighter roasts. There are no added artificial ingredients, which is a positive aspect for those who are health-conscious. In essence, Starbucks VIA Instant French Roast is a solid choice for those who prioritize convenience and like a strong, dark coffee, though it might not satisfy those who prefer a milder brew or the fuller flavor of freshly brewed coffee.

NESCAFÉ Gold Espresso Intense is a solid choice for those who want a quick, flavorful espresso-style coffee without needing any special equipment. It uses responsibly sourced Arabica beans that are golden roasted to deliver a medium roast with an intense and rich flavor. The instant powder form makes it easy to prepare — just add water, and you can have an espresso or Americano in moments. It also includes a creamy crema layer, which is a nice touch for an instant coffee and simulates a café experience.

With a 3.5-ounce jar making up to 50 cups, it offers good value and convenience for everyday use. Since it is an instant coffee, it may lack some of the depth and complexity found in freshly ground espresso, which might matter for coffee enthusiasts. The caffeine content is standard for an espresso, so it provides a good energy boost. There are no extra additives mentioned, which is a plus if you prefer a straightforward coffee. The packaging is compact and practical for kitchen storage.

This product suits people who want a strong, easy espresso without investing in a machine, but those looking for a richer, fresher coffee experience might find instant coffee less satisfying.