illy Iperespresso® is illy's own capsule system. Its capsules are designed for compatible Iperespresso coffee machines and cannot be used interchangeably with other capsule systems.
If you already own an illy Y3.3 or X7.1, or are considering buying an Iperespresso machine, this guide explains the main differences, compatible capsules and available varieties.
Shop illy Iperespresso capsules
Looking for popular varieties? Explore illy Classico Lungo, illy Forte and illy Classico. To sample several flavours, try the illy Iperespresso 90-capsule tasting set.
What is the illy Iperespresso system?
Iperespresso is a proprietary capsule system developed by illy. It uses dedicated illy Iperespresso capsules. Preparation is straightforward: insert a capsule, start brewing and remove it afterwards.
Find the full range in our illy Iperespresso® capsule collection.
Which illy Iperespresso capsules are available?
Depending on availability, we stock a selection of classic roast profiles and Arabica Selection varieties, including:
- Classico – balanced profile
- Classico Lungo – for a longer cup
- Intenso – darker roast
- Forte – particularly intense
- Decaffeinato – decaffeinated
- Arabica Selection – coffees from different origins
To compare several classic varieties, you can also choose the illy Iperespresso 90-capsule tasting set.
illy Y3.3 – compact Iperespresso machine
The illy Y3.3 is compact and designed for both espresso and longer coffees. It is a good option when counter space is limited and you want a simple capsule machine.
illy X7.1 – Iperespresso with milk frothing
The illy X7.1 combines the Iperespresso system with a milk-frothing function, making it suitable for cappuccino and other milk-based drinks.
See all available models in our illy Iperespresso coffee machine collection.
Is Iperespresso compatible with Nespresso®?
No. illy Iperespresso and Nespresso® Original are different capsule systems. An Iperespresso capsule will not fit a Nespresso® Original machine.
illy also sells separate Nespresso® Original-compatible capsules. Explore the formats in our illy coffee capsule collection.
Is Iperespresso compatible with E.S.E. pods?
No. 44 mm E.S.E. pods contain portioned coffee enclosed in filter paper and require a compatible E.S.E. pod machine. Iperespresso uses dedicated capsules instead.
If you prefer an open pod standard, explore our illy E.S.E. pods.
Iperespresso or E.S.E. – which is right for you?
Iperespresso suits people who specifically want illy's closed capsule system and very simple preparation. E.S.E., by contrast, is an open 44 mm standard that lets you use pods from many different roasters.
The right choice is therefore less about one system being better and more about whether you prefer a closed capsule system or a wider choice of coffee brands.
Buy illy Iperespresso in Switzerland
La Bottega del Caffè offers Iperespresso capsules and matching illy coffee machines. Our main illy collection also includes beans, ground coffee, E.S.E. pods and other capsules.
Frequently asked questions about illy Iperespresso
Do Iperespresso capsules work in every illy machine?
No. The machine must be specifically designed for the Iperespresso system.
Do Nespresso® Original capsules fit the illy Y3.3?
No. The Y3.3 uses Iperespresso capsules.
Which Iperespresso capsules are suitable for lungo?
Classico Lungo is specifically intended for a longer cup.
Does Iperespresso offer decaffeinated capsules?
Yes. Decaffeinato is available in the Iperespresso format.
Which illy machine is suitable for cappuccino?
The X7.1 has a milk-frothing function, making it a suitable choice for cappuccino and other milk-based drinks.
