15 Best Instant Coffee For 2024: Tested & Tried
Have you ever been out in nature, ready to enjoy a peaceful morning, only to be disappointed by a terrible cup of coffee? I learned this lesson the hard way. My first camping trip, I grabbed the first instant coffee package I could find at home, thinking, “It’s just coffee, how bad could it be?”
Well, let me tell you—it was bad. The coffee tasted bitter and I quickly realized that not all instant coffees are created equal.
If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation or are simply looking to avoid a bad coffee experience, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’re diving into what makes a great instant coffee, the brands that stand out, and how you can make sure your next cup—whether at home or in the wild—is nothing short of delicious. So, let’s get into it!
Mount Hagen is a favorite among coffee lovers who prioritize both quality and sustainability. Made from 100% organic, fair-trade Arabica beans, it delivers a smooth, well-rounded flavor with no bitterness.
It’s perfect for anyone looking for an instant coffee that doesn’t compromise on taste or ethics. Whether you’re at home or on the go, Mount Hagen dissolves quickly and offers a premium coffee experience.
Starbucks VIA Colombia is for those who want that rich, familiar Starbucks taste in an instant. This single-origin, medium roast has vibrant notes of nuts and citrus, giving it a well-balanced and flavorful profile.
It’s ideal for people who want their coffee quick but still crave a high-quality, cafe-like experience. The convenient packets are also great for travel or work, making this a reliable choice for any situation.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Alpine Start is your best bet. Known for its strong, robust flavor, it’s specifically designed for adventurers who need their coffee fix on the go.
The lightweight, single-serve packaging makes it perfect for hiking or camping. Plus, it dissolves easily in both hot and cold water, so you can enjoy it no matter where you are. It’s a solid choice for anyone who values convenience without sacrificing flavor.
What Makes a Great Instant Coffee?
A truly exceptional instant coffee should give you the comfort of a freshly brewed cup, but with the added ease of quick preparation. So, let’s break down some key elements:
1 – Flavor
First and foremost, flavor is everything. A great instant coffee should have a rich, smooth, and robust taste that closely resembles brewed coffee. You want something that doesn’t feel watered down or flat.
Take Mount Hagen Organic Instant Coffee, for example—its mild yet flavorful profile makes you forget you’re even drinking instant coffee. The flavor needs to be balanced with just the right amount of bitterness or sweetness.
2 – Quality of Ingredients
Instant coffees made from 100% Arabica beans, like Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee, generally have a smoother taste. If you’re health-conscious, look for organic certifications or single-origin beans, like those found in Café Altura Organic Instant Coffee.
3 – Convenience
Convenience is the name of the game. It should be easy to prepare, quick to dissolve, and ideally come in travel-friendly packaging. Alpine Start Instant Coffee is a great example of how instant coffee can be both portable and delicious and perfect for on-the-go or camping trips.
4 – Sustainability
Many people now look for brands that offer Fairtrade, organic certifications, or eco-friendly packaging. Mount Hagen and Waka Coffee are standout brands that highlight sustainability.
5 – Versatility
A great instant coffee should also be versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing iced brew, a good instant coffee should work for both. For example, Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee is ideal for cold coffee lovers but works equally well in a hot version if you prefer.
15 Top Instant Coffee For 2024: Flavor, Quality, and Convenience
I’m going to talk about the favorite instant coffee I found on the market and explain what you can expect from them.
1 – Mount Hagen Organic Instant Coffee (Best For Mild, Smooth & Organic)
Mount Hagen Organic Instant Coffee is hands down one of the best instant coffees I’ve come across, especially if you value convenience and taste.
The flavor is smooth and rich but without being overly bitter or acidic, which is rare for instant coffee. It’s got this nice balance that feels like you’re drinking a “real” brewed cup.
It dissolves easily in hot water, with no clumps or grainy texture. I even make iced coffee with it on busy summer mornings, and it holds up just fine.
What I love most is that it’s made from 100% organic Arabica beans and is Fairtrade certified, so I feel good about what I’m drinking, both in taste and ethics. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option at about 21 cents per cup that doesn’t skimp on quality.
2 – Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee – Colombia (Best For Bold, Burnt & Caramel-Like)
This brand is a solid choice when you want the familiar flavors of Starbucks without leaving the house. The flavor profile is a mix of sweet, burnt caramel and cinnamon, with a hint of floral notes that give it some complexity.
I love how the medium (or actually dark) roast brings out a strong, bold flavor, though it’s definitely on the bitter side. I’ve noticed that it’s not for everyone—some might find it a bit too burnt or salty, especially compared to freshly brewed coffee.
3 – Waka Coffee Quality Instant Coffee (Best For Smooth, Rich & Eco-Conscious)
Waka Coffee Quality Instant Coffee completely changed my opinion on instant coffee. The medium roast Colombian is my go-to, with a smooth, rich flavor and a sweet caramel finish.
What really sets it apart is the freeze-drying process, which helps lock in that full-bodied taste you’d expect from freshly brewed coffee. It’s made from 100% Arabica beans, so you get high quality in every cup.
For me, the convenience is unbeatable. I can make a delicious cup in seconds without compromising on flavor, whether I’m traveling or just in a rush.
Plus, Waka is eco-friendly and supports clean water initiatives, which makes me feel good about supporting them. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who needs great coffee fast but doesn’t want to sacrifice quality.
4 – Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee Mix (Best For Focused, Calm & Earthy)
This unique blend combines the rich taste of coffee with the health benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Chaga.
At first, I wasn’t sure how mushroom coffee would taste, but I was pleasantly surprised. It has an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that still feels like a real cup of coffee.
I’ve noticed that after drinking it, I feel more focused and calm without the jittery energy that comes from regular coffee.
The best part? It helps me stay sharp throughout the day without needing a second cup. I also love knowing that it supports brain health and reduces inflammation.
5 – Nescafé Taster’s Choice House Blend (Best For Mild, Easygoing & Budget-Friendly)
This blend is one of those instant coffees that does its job—quick, convenient, and decent enough for a caffeine fix. While it’s not the most exciting cup of coffee out there.
It still offers a mild, balanced flavor that’s easy to sip on throughout the day. The roast is light, and you might notice subtle sweet and slightly toasty notes. Though the body can feel a bit flat compared to other instant options.
I’ve found that it’s a reliable choice for your day-to-day life, and I don’t want to spend much time or money on a more premium blend.
Saying that it’s definitely not a coffee you’ll rave about. But it’s one that gets the job done through a busy morning or afternoon.
6 – Verve Coffee Roasters Instant Craft Coffee (Best For Premium Quality)
This instant coffee stands out for its attention to detail and premium flavor. The Streetlevel blend, my personal favorite, brings together notes of ripe stone fruit, red apple, and a touch of honeycomb sweetness.
The medium roast strikes the perfect balance, offering a bright, zesty citrus kick and a soothing syrupy finish. I really enjoy it because it feels like I’m drinking a high-end brewed coffee, even though it’s instant.
It’s versatile too—great whether I’m in the mood for hot or iced coffee. Plus, Verve’s commitment to ethical sourcing and small-batch roasting makes each cup feel like a thoughtful experience.
The best part? It’s quick to make and tastes fresh, which is rare for instant coffee. You just need one packet, 10 ounces of water, stir, and you’re set for a flavorful pick-me-up anytime.
7 – Sudden Coffee – Light Roast Instant Coffee (Best For Light, Smooth & On-The-Go)
The flavor of their light roast is unlike any other instant coffee I’ve tried—it’s got a light, floral sweetness with notes of caramel and a subtle milk chocolate aroma.
There’s a gentle acidity that makes it feel crisp and refreshing. However, what really stands out is the smooth, almost silky texture. It’s like a perfectly balanced Americano in a cup, but without all the brewing fuss.
I love using it on busy mornings when I want something that tastes like I spent more time on it than I actually did. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can make it with hot or cold water or even mix it with milk to get a homemade latte vibe.
The reason I enjoy Sudden Coffee so much is because it feels like a true specialty coffee experience but in a convenient and no-brew format.
8 – Joe Coffee The Daily Instant (Best For Quick, Smooth & Medium Roast)
It’s a medium roast that balances a nice, subtle sweetness with bright acidity, making it approachable for most coffee drinkers.
I love that it has a smooth texture with just a hint of chocolate and citrus notes, making it taste much more like freshly brewed coffee than other instant options.
Personally, I enjoy having this in my travel bag or even at work for those moments when I need a quick caffeine boost, but don’t have time for my usual brew methods.
What makes The Daily special for me is its versatility. Whether you like your coffee hot or cold, this instant version dissolves easily in both, so you’re never stuck with just one option.
Plus, the ethical sourcing and small-batch roasting give it a premium feel that you don’t usually get from instant coffee.
9 – Café Altura Organic Instant Coffee (Best For Organic & Ethically-Sourced)
Café Altura Organic Instant Coffee delivers a smooth, full-bodied flavor that truly surprised me for an instant coffee. It’s made from 100% Arabica beans sourced from three continents, and you can taste the difference in its depth and richness.
The flavor is robust yet balanced, with a subtle earthiness and a clean, smooth finish. What sets it apart for me is the organic and Fair Trade certification—it’s nice to know I’m drinking something that’s not only tasty but also ethically sourced.
I love using it for iced coffee—just add cold water, some milk, and you’ve got yourself a refreshing cup in minutes. Plus, the freeze-drying process really preserves the flavor and aroma, making it a cut above other instant brands.
10 – Black Rifle Coffee Instant Packs (Best For Bold & Convenient)
This blend is perfect solution for anyone needing a bold and robust cup of coffee. The flavor profile is strong with notes of vanilla and a buttery finish, which adds a smoothness to the deep and rich taste.
I’ve used these while camping, and they pack light but deliver a punch, keeping me energized during outdoor adventures. Also, the fact that it’s roasted and blended in the U.S. and the company is veteran-owned makes it even better in my book.
The best part is how easy it is to store and carry around. Whether you’re outdoors or just want a quick, no-fuss coffee at home, these packs never fail.
11 – Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee (Best For Budget-Friendly Everyday Coffee)
I consider it one of those reliable, no-frills coffees that many of us grew up with. It’s not aiming to be fancy, but it delivers a smooth and mild flavor that works well when you just need a simple cup of coffee.
The roast is medium, and while it’s made with Robusta beans, you get a straightforward, slightly nutty flavor with a hint of chocolate.
Sure, it’s not the most complex coffee out there, but for a quick, inexpensive option (about 14 cents per serving), it gets the job done.
I’ve found it’s perfect when I’m in a rush or need something easy to brew when I have guests over. It’s that kind of everyday coffee that doesn’t require a lot of thinking. Just mix it in with some hot water, and you’re good to go.
And hey, for an instant coffee, it’s pretty decent at delivering a cup that’s drinkable and familiar.
12 – Alpine Start Instant Coffee (Best For Quicky & Lightweight Coffee)
Perfect choice for outdoor lovers who need their caffeine fix without any hassle. The Original Blend is impressively smooth for an instant coffee, with a light, slightly nutty flavor and just the right amount of brightness.
What I love about Alpine Start is how it retains a good balance, even when made with just water—something that’s often hard to find in instant coffee.
Whether you’re on a camping trip or just in need of a quick cup on a busy morning, it’s incredibly easy to make. I’ve even used it on cold hikes with cold water, and it still holds up pretty well, which is rare for instant.
It’s super portable, making it a great option for lightweight backpacking trips or any adventure where space is limited. I also appreciate that it comes in vegan and dairy-free options, which makes it versatile for everyone.
Plus, the fact that it supports environmental causes like 1% for the Planet adds a feel-good factor to every cup.
13 – Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee (Best For Cold Brew)
If you love cold brew this blend is great! The flavor is smooth and light, with less bitterness than traditional hot instant coffees.
I was a bit skeptical about how good a cold brew from instant crystals could be, but this one genuinely impressed me. It has a mild, almost chocolatey note that goes down easy, especially with a splash of milk or syrup.
Also, there’s no need to wait 12+ hours for cold brew to steep—you just mix this up with cold water, and you’re set in seconds.
While it might not have the deep, bold aroma of freshly brewed cold brew, the smoothness and ease make it a winner in my book. Plus, it’s super portable—perfect for camping or travel when you can’t access a coffee maker.
14 – Jacob’s Kronung Instant Coffee (Best For Refined, Smooth & European-Style)
The taste is bold yet balanced, with a subtle sweetness and slightly nutty undertones. There’s a certain elegance to the cup, which feels almost like a fresh-brewed coffee from a European café.
I particularly enjoy it because it has a smooth finish without any bitterness, which makes it perfect for sipping in the afternoon or for a quick and easy morning brew.
The best part is that it dissolves effortlessly, so you can have a great cup of coffee ready in seconds.
I love using Jacob’s Kronung during travel because it packs all the rich flavor I want without needing any fancy brewing equipment.
15 – Death Wish Coffee Instant Dark Roast (Best For Travelers Needing Caffeine Boost)
Their brand is famous for its bold and intense flavor profile. With a blend of robust Arabica and Robusta beans, this coffee delivers a powerful, smooth cup with dark chocolate and black cherry undertones.
I love the rich and almost smoky bitterness that packs a punch—perfect for those mornings when I need an extra boost of caffeine to get moving.
I really enjoy it when I’m traveling because these packets are convenient, and I don’t have to compromise on the quality or strength of my coffee.
It’s strong, and I do mean strong! But if you enjoy dark, bold coffee that can kickstart your day, this one’s a winner.
Last Thoughts: Choosing the Best Instant Coffee?
When it comes to choosing the best instant coffee, it really boils down to what you’re looking for—whether it’s boldness, convenience, sustainability, or something completely unique.
If you prefer a strong kick of caffeine, Death Wish Coffee or Black Rifle Coffee might be your go-to. If you’re into organic or ethically sourced beans, Mount Hagen or Café Altura could be the perfect fit.
For those who want a unique twist, Four Sigmatic’s mushroom blend is definitely worth a try.
Have you tried any of these brands, or do you have a favorite instant coffee that didn’t make the list? I’d love to know in the comments below!
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