Folgers vs. Nescafé vs. UCC vs. Café Bustelo Instant Coffee: Which is the Best?

What are the most popular instant coffee brands?

Here are some of the most popular instant coffee brands:

Folgers: With a heritage that stretches back to 1850 in the United States, Folgers has firmly established itself as a household favorite. Renowned for its affordability and wide availability, it has made coffee accessible to countless consumers. The star of its instant coffee lineup is the Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals. 

Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals

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Nescafé: Since its inception in 1938 in Switzerland by Nestlé, Nescafé has been a pioneer in the instant coffee realm. It was born out of a need to utilize surplus coffee beans from Brazil and has since evolved into a global phenomenon. Nescafé is synonymous with innovation and quality. Among its popular instant coffee products is the Nescafé Clasico. 

Nescafé Clasico

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UCC: Founded in 1933 in Kobe, Japan by Tadeo Ueshima, UCC has been making waves in recent years, finding a dedicated following in Asian, European, and American markets. The brand places great emphasis on the art of coffee bean selection and roasting. Utilizing a traditional drum roaster, it ensures a slow and even roast, which translates into a rich and flavorful cup. UCC 117 Instant Coffee Powder is a standout. 

UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee

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Café Bustelo: Originating from East Harlem, New York in 1928, Café Bustelo was the brainchild of Gregorio Menéndez Bustelo. Drawing inspiration from his Latin American travels, especially Cuba, he set out to introduce a unique coffee flavor profile to the United States. Today, it has become a staple in many Latino households and has gained broader popularity due to its bold and rich flavor. The Café Bustelo Espresso-Style Dark Roast Instant Coffee is a crowd-pleaser. 

Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee

($5.76, 7.05 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($7.49, 7.05 oz FROM Kroger  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

So, which instant coffee brand should you choose? Do you know the differences between these brands of coffee? In order to help you find the coffee that suits you, my team of ten and I conducted a comprehensive review of them. I will meticulously select the 3 most representative reviews from different individuals with unique experiences.

A quick look at the differences between 4 well-known instant coffee

To compare these brands, we chose one of their representative flavors. So, settle in and let's discover which one truly claims the throne.

	Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals	Nescafé Clasico	Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee	UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee
	($10.84, 12 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($9.99, 12 oz FROM Kroger  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)	($6.74, 7 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($7.49, 7 oz FROM Kroger  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)	($5.76, 7.05 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($7.49, 7.05 oz FROM Kroger  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)	($14.99, 3.17 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($6.80, 3.17 oz FROM Weee!   - Get Up To $5 Cash Back & Save 9%) ($8.53, 3.17 oz FROM Weee!   - Get Up To $5 Cash Back & Save 4%) ($9.49, 3.17 oz FROM Yami - Save 1%)
Why we like it:	Affordability: Folgers is widely available and often comes at a budget - friendly price.  Familiar Taste: It has a classic coffee flavor that many users grew up with. The medium - bodied experience, with a mild acidity and balanced bitterness, is approachable and comforting. Good Solubility: The crystals dissolve almost instantly in hot water, without the need for vigorous stirring. This makes it a convenient choice for those rushed mornings. Versatility: Can be used to create various coffee drinks and even coffee - flavored desserts.	Rich Flavor: Known for its rich, bold flavor and smooth finish. The fuller body and more pronounced bitterness, offset by a touch of acidity, make it a favorite among those who like a more robust coffee. Global Reputation: Nescafé is a well - recognized and trusted brand globally. It has a reputation for innovation and quality, and consumers can rely on its consistent product quality. Convenience: The granules dissolve quickly and evenly, ensuring a consistent cup of coffee every time. It's a great option for busy mornings or when you're on the go.	Bold Flavor: A powerhouse in terms of flavor, with a thick and intense, espresso - like taste. The bold bitterness with very little acidity allows the deep, dark flavors of the coffee to shine through. Customizability: Can stand up to both milk and sugar, allowing for a wide range of customizable coffee drinks. Convenient Packaging: Reviewers like the individual use packets, which are convenient for on - the - go or at work.	Unique Flavor Profile: Has a medium - rich body and a unique combination of a notable bitterness with a slight acidity. The aroma is fragrant with a distinct nutty undertone. Low Acidity: Favored by those who dislike acidic coffee, as it has a relatively low acidity level, resulting in a smooth and mellow taste. Good Solubility and Texture: The powder dissolves smoothly in hot water, and the texture is well - balanced, with a clean and crisp feel and minimal graininess. Versatility in Preparation: Can be used to create a variety of coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
Why we don't like it:	Lack of Complexity: Some coffee connoisseurs may find the flavor a bit ordinary compared to more complex blends.  Milder Flavor Profile: For users who prefer a stronger, bolder coffee, Folgers Classic Roast might seem a bit weak.	Strong Bitterness: Some users find it to be a bit too strong or bitter for their taste preferences. Packaging Issues: There have been some reports of consumers having problems with the packaging.	Texture for Some: There were very few negative reviews, but some consumers had difficulties achieving the desired texture when making certain coffee recipes, such as whipped coffee. Acquired Taste: The strong, unadulterated coffee taste is not for everyone and might be an acquired taste.	Mild for Some: A small number of consumers find the flavor to be too mild or not strong enough to their liking, especially when compared to other stronger instant coffees or freshly brewed coffee. Acidity Perception: While most reviewers mention low acidity as a positive, there are a few who feel that it still has a slightly higher acidity than they prefer. Personal Taste: As with any coffee, personal taste plays a significant role, and some individuals simply do not enjoy the unique flavor profile, finding it too bitter or not to their taste buds.

Editor's review: Folgers vs. Nescafé vs. UCC vs. Café Bustelo: Which one is best?

My number one choice is Café Bustelo!

Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee

($5.76, 7.05 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($7.49, 7.05 oz FROM Kroger  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

❤️ As an avid coffee lover, Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee has truly won my heart, and here's why.

When it comes to that first sip, the bold flavor of Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee hits me like a bolt of lightning. It has an intensity that instantly wakes up my senses and gets me ready to take on the day. The thick and syrupy texture is just like a proper espresso shot, which gives it a luxurious feel. I can almost close my eyes and imagine myself in a bustling Italian coffee bar.

The aroma is another aspect that I find irresistible. It's earthy and has a certain rawness that draws me in every time I open the packet. It fills the air around me and creates an anticipation that is only satisfied when that first taste lands on my tongue.

In terms of flavor complexity, while it is bold and strong, it still has a certain depth. And when I want to get a bit creative, it pairs wonderfully with a dash of cinnamon or a splash of cream, allowing me to customize my coffee experience to my mood.

I must say that Café Bustelo truly impresses with its diverse range of packaging alternatives. The individual use packets are a godsend. Whether I'm rushing out the door to work, traveling, or just need a quick pick-me-up at my desk, I can easily prepare a delicious cup of coffee in no time. I don't have to worry about measuring or spilling, and it always turns out just right. In addition, coffee is also available in glass jars. They not only present an appetizing visual appeal but also prove to be highly convenient for storage. 

What's more, this coffee provides excellent value for money. And to sweeten the deal, by stocking up on it at Walmart and Kroger online, I even have the opportunity to enjoy up to 4% cash back. It's a win-win situation for any coffee lover seeking both quality and economic sensibility.

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Real Reviews and Comparisons of the Best Instant Coffee

#1. Flavor and Taste

►    Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals: 

Richness and Body: Offers a medium-bodied experience, like a warm hug for your taste buds. It strikes the perfect balance, not too heavy, but with enough richness to satisfy.

Acidity and Bitterness: Mild acidity pairs harmoniously with a balanced bitterness, creating an approachable and mellow flavor. Ideal for those who enjoy a smooth coffee taste, whether black or with a touch of cream and sugar.

Aroma and Aftertaste: The classic coffee aroma fills the room, inviting you to take a sip. The aftertaste is pleasant and lingers softly, with a faint nuttiness that adds a charming touch.

►    Nescafé Clasico: 

Richness and Body: Boasts a fuller body compared to Folgers, coating the tongue with a luxurious feel. It's an upgrade in richness, making each sip a more substantial encounter.

Acidity and Bitterness: A more pronounced bitterness, offset by a hint of acidity, gives it an edge and complexity. Perfect for coffee lovers who crave a robust and flavorful cup.

Aroma and Aftertaste: The strong and robust aroma draws you in, and the long, complex aftertaste, with hints of chocolate and smokiness, makes you savor every mouthful.

►    Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee: 

Richness and Body: A powerhouse of richness and body, thick and intense like a concentrated shot of coffee goodness. It demands your attention and delivers a serious caffeine boost.

Acidity and Bitterness: Bold bitterness with minimal acidity allows the deep, dark flavors to shine. A coffee for the purists who love an unadulterated, strong taste.

Aroma and Aftertaste: The earthy and intense aroma, with a certain rawness, appeals to coffee aficionados. The powerful aftertaste lingers long, leaving a deep, bold mark.

►    UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee: 

Richness and Body: Strikes a balance with a medium-rich body, like a well-tuned instrument. It provides a good coffee experience without overwhelming the senses.

Acidity and Bitterness: Notable bitterness with a slight acidity adds complexity. It may take a few tries to appreciate, but once you do, the unique flavor combination is a delight.

Aroma and Aftertaste: The fragrant aroma with a distinct nutty undertone sets it apart. The clean and crisp aftertaste leaves you refreshed and satisfied.

#2. Solubility and Texture

►    Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals: 

Solubility: Dissolves almost instantly in hot water, no vigorous stirring required. A convenient choice for those rushed mornings.

Texture: Fine and powdery, with a medium body and a creamy feel. Glides over the tongue smoothly, free from graininess or residue.

►    Nescafé Clasico: 

Solubility: Dissolves quickly and evenly, ensuring a consistent cup every time.

Texture: Slightly more body than Folgers, with an almost velvety texture. A faint hint of graininess that doesn't detract from the overall experience.

►    Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee: 

Solubility: Larger and coarser granules, but still dissolve relatively quickly. May need a bit more stirring.

Texture: Thick and syrupy, like a liquid espresso shot. Dense and creamy, with a slight grittiness that adds to the charm for some.

►    UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee: 

Solubility: Powder dissolves smoothly, creating a clear and even coffee solution. Easy to prepare.

Texture: Medium-rich body, less thick than Café Bustelo but more than Folgers. Clean and crisp, with minimal graininess.

#3. Ingredient Quality

►    Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals: 

Long history, made from a blend of beans (likely Arabica and Robusta). Freeze-dried to preserve flavor and aroma. Decent quality, providing a reliable coffee experience.

►    Nescafé Clasico: 

Global giant, crafted with care. Utilizes a blend of mainly Arabica beans. Strict quality control and freeze-drying ensure high ingredient quality.

►    Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee: 

Renowned for bold flavors, made from a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans from Central and South America. Dark roasted and freeze-dried to maintain flavor integrity.

►    UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee: 

Respected in specialty coffee. Features a curated blend with a higher proportion of Robusta beans. Attention to detail in sourcing and roasting for consistent quality.

#4. Brand Reputation

►    Folgers: 

A household name in the US since 1850. Known for affordability and accessibility. Associated with a traditional and reliable coffee experience. While it may not have the same level of cachet as some more upscale coffee brands, it has a large and loyal customer base.

►    Nescafé: 

One of the most recognized brands globally. Renowned for innovation and quality. It is seen as a dependable choice for those who want a good cup of instant coffee, whether at home, in the office, or on the go. The brand's global presence and marketing efforts have made it a top choice for millions of coffee drinkers.

►    Café Bustelo: 

Has a distinct reputation in the coffee community. It is known for its Latin American-inspired coffee flavors and bold profiles. The brand has a cult following, especially among those who enjoy a more intense and authentic coffee experience.

►    UCC: 

UCC has a reputation for being a purveyor of high-quality coffee, especially in the Japanese and Asian markets. The brand is associated with a more refined and specialty coffee approach. Gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts.

#5. Price and Value for Money

►    Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals: 

Widely available and budget-friendly. Medium-sized jars (around 8 ounces) under $7, and larger containers at a reasonable cost. Ideal for regular coffee drinkers on a budget.

►    Nescafé Clasico: 

Priced a bit higher, $6.5 - $8 for a 7-ounce jar. Offers different package sizes and occasional promotions.

►    Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee: 

Competitively priced, around $6.5 - $7.5 for a standard 7-ounce jar. Justifiable for its unique espresso-like flavor profile.

►    UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee: 

Since it is an imported product, the price is slightly expensive and unstable, $8 - $15 for a 3.5-ounce container. Offers a refined coffee experience for those willing to pay a bit more.

#6. Consumer Reviews and Ratings

►    Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals: 

Overall Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon for both 8-ounce and 16-ounce packs.

Positive Reviews: Great taste, rich flavor, pleasant aroma, and versatility. Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.

Negative Reviews: Some find the taste ordinary or not premium enough.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

I've been drinking Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals for years. It's always been my go-to for a quick and easy cup of coffee. The flavor is consistent and has that nice, mild bitterness that I enjoy. It's great for when I'm in a rush in the morning and don't have time to brew a pot. I also love that it's so affordable. I can stock up without breaking the bank. The only downside is that it might not be as strong as some other more premium instant coffees, but for my daily fix, it's perfect.

Review 2:

This coffee is a staple in my household. The aroma when you open the jar is just classic coffee. It dissolves really well and makes a smooth cup. I like to add a little cream and sugar to it, and it tastes just like the coffee I grew up with. I've tried other brands, but always come back to Folgers. The packaging could be a bit more durable, though. I've had a couple of jars where the lid didn't seal properly after opening.

Review 3:

Folgers Classic Roast is a reliable choice. It has a medium body and a pleasant aftertaste. I appreciate that it's widely available in most stores. I sometimes use it to make iced coffee, and it works great. It doesn't have that overpowering acidity that some coffees have. However, if you're a coffee snob looking for a complex flavor profile, this might not be it. But for an everyday, no-frills coffee, it gets the job done.

►    Nescafé Clasico: 

Overall Rating: 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Influenster.

Positive Reviews: Rich, bold flavor, smooth finish, convenience, and trusted brand.

Negative Reviews: Can be too strong or bitter for some, and packaging issues reported.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

Nescafé Clasico is my favorite instant coffee. The rich flavor is what sets it apart. It has a boldness that wakes me up in the morning. The granules dissolve quickly and evenly, which is a big plus. I've used it to make lattes at home, and it blends well with milk. The only complaint I have is that it can be a bit too bitter for some people. I sometimes have to add a little extra sugar. But overall, it's a high-quality instant coffee.

Review 2:

I've been using Nescafé Clasico for a long time. The brand is well-known for a reason. The coffee has a deep, full-bodied taste. The aroma is strong and inviting. It's convenient for travel or when I'm at work. I like that they offer different package sizes. However, I did notice that the taste can vary slightly depending on the batch. Sometimes it's a bit more acidic than I like. But it's still a great option for a quick and delicious cup of coffee.

Review 3:

This coffee is amazing. It gives me that instant boost I need. The flavor is complex with hints of chocolate and a smooth finish. I've recommended it to all my coffee-loving friends. The packaging is easy to open and close, which helps keep the coffee fresh. The only drawback is that it's not the cheapest instant coffee on the market. But you definitely get what you pay for in terms of quality and taste.

►    Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee: 

Overall Rating: 4.63 out of 5-star rating on Influenster.

Positive Reviews: Rich, full-bodied flavor, customizable with milk and sugar, and convenient individual packets.

Negative Reviews: Few difficulties with texture in certain recipes.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee is a game-changer. The bold flavor is intense and exactly what I look for in an espresso. It's thick and syrupy, just like a real espresso shot. I love that it comes in individual packets. It's perfect for when I'm on the go or at work. I can easily make a strong cup of coffee in minutes. The only issue I had was when I tried to make a whipped coffee with it. The texture didn't turn out as smooth as I hoped. But for a regular cup of coffee, it's outstanding.

Review 2:

I was skeptical about instant espresso, but Café Bustelo proved me wrong. The earthy aroma is so appealing. It has a minimal amount of acidity, which lets the coffee's natural flavor shine. I like to add a bit of cinnamon to it, and it tastes amazing. The granules dissolve relatively fast, although you might need to stir a bit more than other instant coffees. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you love a strong coffee, this is it.

Review 3:

This coffee has a unique flavor that I can't get enough of. It gives me a serious caffeine kick. I use it to make my own version of a mocha at home. The coffee stands up well to the chocolate and milk. The packaging is sturdy, and the individual packets are convenient for portion control. The only thing is that the aftertaste is a bit strong and lingers for a while. But overall, it's a great choice for espresso lovers.

►    UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee: 

Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

Positive Reviews: Rich flavor and aroma, low acidity, convenient solubility, versatile, and good value for money.

Negative Reviews: Some find the flavor too mild or have issues with acidity perception and personal taste preferences.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

UCC The Blend 117 Instant Coffee has a wonderful aroma. The nutty undertone is really pleasant. It's not too acidic, which is great for my sensitive stomach. It dissolves smoothly and makes a clear cup of coffee. I like to use it to make iced americano. It has a good balance of bitterness and a slight sweetness. The only downside is that it's a bit mild for my taste sometimes. I wish it had a bit more oomph. But it's still a very good instant coffee.

Review 2:

I really enjoy UCC The Blend 117. The flavor is unique and has a certain complexity to it. I appreciate that it's soluble in both hot and cold water. It's convenient for different brewing methods. The coffee has a medium-rich body and a clean aftertaste. I've introduced it to my family, and they like it too. However, a couple of my friends thought it was too bitter. I guess it depends on personal taste. Overall, it's a reliable and quality instant coffee.

Review 3:

This coffee is a great find. It offers good value for the price. The texture is nice and not too grainy. I like to add a splash of cream to it, and it tastes like a fancy coffee shop drink. The solubility is excellent. The only problem I had was that the flavor seemed a bit inconsistent between different purchases. But when it's good, it's really good. It's become a regular in my coffee rotation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, each of these instant coffees has its own set of merits and drawbacks. Folgers offers affordability and a familiar taste, Nescafé brings global recognition and a rich flavor, Café Bustelo provides an intense espresso-like experience, and UCC The Blend 117 caters to those seeking a unique and refined flavor. The choice ultimately depends on your personal taste preferences, budget, and the specific coffee experience you desire.

My number one choice is Café Bustelo!

Café Bustelo Espresso Instant Coffee

($5.76, 7.05 oz FROM Walmart - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($7.49, 7.05 oz FROM Kroger  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

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