What capsules are suitable for Xiaomi capsule coffee machine: full guide 2026

Xiaomi Mi Coffee Maker has gained popularity due to its compactness, stylish design and integration into the smart home ecosystem. But the main question that owners are worried about is which capsules fit it? Official documentation often does not mention compatibility with analogues, and the price of the original Mi Coffee Capsules can seem inflated. In this article, we will examine all the nuances from technical requirements to life hacks for savings.

It is important to understand that Xiaomi does not manufacture capsule coffee machines on its own β€” the device is manufactured under the De’er brand (or Viomi in some regions) under license. This means that the compatibility of capsules depends on the design of the holder and the piercing system, not on the firmware or brand. We tested more than 15 types of capsules and identified key selection criteria.

Xiaomi’s official capsules: pros and cons

Xiaomi offers branded capsules under the brand name Mi Coffee Capsules, which are positioned as the optimal solution for their coffee machine.

  • 🌍 Classical espresso - Intensity 10/12, volume 5–7 d ground coffee
  • β˜• Lungo - increased volume of drink (up to the 110 ml), intensity 6/12
  • 🌿 Caffeine-free option for those who avoid stimulants

The advantages of the original capsules are obvious: guaranteed compatibility, stable grinding quality and sealed packaging with a valve to preserve the flavor.

  • πŸ’° Price - 1.5-2 times higher than that of analogues (from 30 to 50 rubles per capsule)
  • πŸ“¦ Limited range - only 5 tastes (vs. 20)+ rival)
  • 🌍 Logistics – difficulties with delivery to some regions of Russia

⚠️ Note: In 2023, Xiaomi updated the capsule composition by adding Arabica from Colombia instead of Brazilian. If you are used to the same taste, check the batch on the package (new ones are code-marked). V2.1).

For those who value predictable results and are willing to pay for the brand, original capsules are the best choice, but if you want to save money or experiment with flavors, it's worth considering analogs.

πŸ“Š Which capsules do you use more often?
The Original Xiaomi
Nespresso-compatible
Other analogues
I buy coffee in beans and pour it myself.

Compatibility with Nespresso capsules: myths and reality

The most common question is, do Nespresso capsules fit Xiaomi's machine? The answer is yes, but with reservations. Mi Coffee Maker uses an open system similar to Nespresso OriginalLine, but with some nuances:

  1. The size of the capsule - the diameter should be 35-37 mm, the height of 20-22 mm.
  2. Material - aluminum or food plastic (PET) sealed.
  3. Fixing - the capsule should be fixed in the holder without backlash.

We tested 10 popular brands of capsules compatible with Nespresso and here are the results:

BrandCompatibilityNotesThe price per capsule (β‚½)
Nespresso Originalβœ… Yes.Perfect landing, but high price45–60
Gourmessoβœ… Yes.Budget analogue, taste close to the original20–30
Caffitaly❌ No.Capsules too high (25 mm)β€”
Starbucks by Nespressoβœ… Yes.Intense taste, but often faked50–70
L’OR Espresso⚠️ Partially.Sometimes they get stuck when extracted.25–40

Critical point: capsules with a flat cover (for example, some versions from Dolce Gusto) are not pierced with the needle of a Xiaomi coffee machine - this leads to weak pressure or no extraction.

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Before buying, check the reviews on the marketplaces with the filter "For Xiaomi Mi Coffee Maker". Often sellers indicate compatibility in the description, but this is not always true.

Alternative capsules: a review of the best brands

If the original capsules or Nespresso don't suit you, there are plenty of alternatives from third-party manufacturers, the main thing is to pay attention to the size, material and degree of roasting, and we have compiled a rating of proven options:

1.Gourmesso capsules

German brand specializing in compatible capsules.

  • πŸ’° Price 2 times lower than Nespresso
  • 🌱 100% compostable variants (Eco line)
  • πŸ”„ 15 flavors, including limited editions

Disadvantage: sometimes come across capsules with insufficient tightness, which affects the freshness.

2. Capsules CafΓ© Royal

Swiss quality at an affordable price.

  • β˜• Intensity from 5 to 12 (there are very strong varieties)
  • 🌿 Organic Certified Capsules
  • πŸ“¦ Light-protected packaging

3. Kimbo capsules (Italy)

An Italian brand with a tradition of roasting, suitable for fans of rich espresso with a touch of cocoa, Minus - a limited range in Russia.

⚠️ Warning: Metallized foil capsules (such as some Illy variants) can damage the needle of the coffee machine pricker.

Check the diameter (35-37 mm)|Make sure the material is aluminum or food plastic.|Look for reviews with mention of Xiaomi|Pay attention to the degree of roasting (light / dark)|Check the presence of the valve to keep the freshness-->

How to use capsules of other sizes: life hacks

What do you do if you come across a non-standard size capsule? There are several proven ways to adapt:

1. Capsule adapters

AliExpress and Wildberries sell silicone adapters for capsules with a diameter of 40-44 mm (for example, Dolce Gusto), which allow you to use larger capsules, but there are nuances:

  • ⚠️ The pressure may decrease during extraction.
  • ⚠️ Risk of leakage if the adapter is not tightly attached

2. Homemade gaskets

If the capsule is too small (for example, 30 mm), you can cut the ring out of food rubber and put it in the holder.

3. Sprinkling coffee in empty capsules

For experiments with coffee varieties, you can buy empty valve capsules (such as Capsul’in) and fill them yourself.

  • πŸ”Ή Weight of coffee: 5-7 g for espresso, 8-10 g for lungo
  • πŸ”Ή Grade of grinding: fine (as for an espresso machine)
  • πŸ”Ή Tampering: without excessive pressure, otherwise the needle will not puncture the capsule
What happens if you use capsules without a valve?
Without the valve, the coffee will quickly oxidize and lose its flavor, and extraction can cause excessive pressure, which will rupture the capsule and leak, and at worst, break the needle of the piercing.

Savings on capsules: where to buy cheaper

The price of capsules can vary significantly depending on the place of purchase, and we analyzed the offers and identified the best options:

The playgroundAverage price per capsule (β‚½)PlusesCons
Official Xiaomi Store40–50Guarantee of originalityLong delivery, limited range
Wildberries25–35Fast delivery, frequent discountsRisk of running into a fake
Ozon20–40Wide range, reviews with photosPrices can be overstated by sellers with low ratings
AliExpress15–25Lowest prices, wholesale offersDelivery 3-6 weeks, risk of marriage
Local coffee shops30–50Fresh roasted coffee, unique tastesNot everyone offers capsules for Xiaomi

Tip: subscribe to the mailing list of stores - often there are sales with a discount before 30%. For example, on Wildberries, Gourmesso capsules are regularly sold on stock "3+1 gift".

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The most profitable option is to buy capsules in bulk (packages of 100).+ AliExpress, but keep in mind that the shelf life after opening the package is 3-4 months.

Frequent problems with capsules and their solutions

Even with the right capsules, there can be failures, and let's look at typical situations and ways to fix them:

1.The coffee flows too slowly or does not flow at all

Causes and solutions:

  • πŸ”Ή The needle of the puncturer clogged. β†’ Clean it with a toothpick or a special brush (complete with a coffee machine).
  • πŸ”Ή Capsule deformed β†’ Check the integrity of the packaging before use.
  • πŸ”Ή Too fine grinding β†’ If you fall asleep on your own, use the grinding for espresso, but not smaller.

2.The coffee leaks past the cup

This happens if:

  • πŸ”Ή Capsule is not tightly fixed in the holder β†’ Check if it is inserted correctly.
  • πŸ”Ή The rubber pad is worn out β†’ Replace it (Article for Mi Coffee Maker β€” DM-CM01).
  • πŸ”Ή Pressure's too high. β†’ Try a capsule with a less roasting degree.

3.The coffee is bitter or has a metallic taste

Probable reasons:

  • πŸ”Ή Expired capsules β†’ Check the date on the package.
  • πŸ”Ή Poor quality water β†’ Use filtered or bottled.
  • πŸ”Ή Contamination of the coffee machine β†’ Conduct a cleaning cycle (instructions in the section below).

⚠️ Warning: If the machine starts hissing or making unusual sounds during extraction, stop using immediately!This may indicate that the coffee grounds have entered the machinery or the pump has broken down.

Care of the coffee machine when using different capsules

Frequent change of capsule types (especially with different coffee compositions) can lead to accumulation of sediment and clogging of the needle. To prolong the life of the device, follow these recommendations:

  1. Weekly cleaning: 🧼 Wash the capsule holder with warm water (without detergents!). 🧹 Clean the puncture needle with a toothpick.

Monthly deep cleaning:

  • πŸ’§ Pour into the tank a solution of citric acid (1 package per 500 ml of water).
  • β˜• Start the cycle without the capsule, then rinse 2-3 times with clean water.
  • Use of filtered water: Hard water accelerates scale formation.

To automate care, you can use a purification pill (e.g. Durgol Swiss Espresso) that dissolves coffee oils and lime plaque, and you just run a cycle with a pill every 1-2 months.

Important: Never use vinegar for cleaning! it can damage rubber pads and leaves a persistent odor.

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Regular care not only prolongs the life of the coffee machine, but also improves the taste of coffee, and the coating on the needle and in the pipes can give the drink bitterness.

Can I use Dolce Gusto capsules in a Xiaomi coffee machine?
No, Dolce Gusto capsules are of a different size (40 mm diameter) and shape, but you can buy an adapter (for example, Nespresso-Dolce Gusto converter on AliExpress), but the extraction quality can deteriorate.
Why does Xiaomi not puncture the capsule?
There are several reasons: πŸ”Ή Capsule with thickened cover (for example, some eco-variants). πŸ”Ή The needle is dull or contaminated - cleaning is required. πŸ”Ή The capsule is incorrectly inserted, check the fixation. Try inserting another capsule. If the problem recurs, contact the service.
Where to buy original Xiaomi capsules cheaper?
The lowest prices are usually on AliExpress (at official sellers Xiaomi Global Store or Mi Home Store), and watch the sales on Wildberries and Ozon – sometimes there are promotional packages of 100-200 capsules at a discount of up to 40%.
Can I use the capsules again?
Technically, yes, but the quality of coffee will deteriorate dramatically: β˜• The drink will be weak and watery (most of the extract has already been washed). 🦠 Risk of Bacteria Reproduction in Coffee Residues. πŸ”§ The needle may clog up because of the compressed grounds. If you really need to, rinse the capsule, dry and fill up new coffee (but this is closer to "homemade" capsules).
What are the strongest capsules for Xiaomi?
Intensity of roasting and caffeine content are leading: πŸ”₯ Nespresso Kazaar (intensity) 12/12) πŸ”₯ Gourmesso Ristretto Forte (11/12) πŸ”₯ Kimbo Espresso Napoletano (10/12, Note: the strength depends not only on the capsule, but also on the volume of water that you set in the settings of the coffee machine.