Products
Corporate
About
Contacts
VN
CN
mr viet blog

Top 9 Instant Coffee Brands: Your Guide to Great Coffee in Seconds

Explore the top 9 instant coffee brands delivering quality and convenience. Learn what makes each brand special and find your perfect cup - from classic European blends to bold Vietnamese flavors.
For busy mornings, travel, or simply convenience, instant coffee has become an essential part of many coffee lovers’ routines. But today’s instant coffee isn’t the stale, bitter brew you might remember. Many top brands now offer high-quality instant coffee with surprisingly rich and complex flavors.

Here’s a closer look at nine of the best instant coffee brands, plus tips on choosing the right one for your taste and lifestyle.


1. Starbucks VIA Instant

Starbucks VIA has become a go-to for those who want their favorite café taste at home or on the go. Made with microground Arabica coffee, it’s smooth and bold, with a finish that’s impressively close to a fresh cup of Starbucks.

Available in: classic roast, Italian roast, French roast, and flavored options like vanilla and caramel.

2. Mr. Viet Instant Coffee

Bringing a bold Vietnamese character to instant coffee, Mr. Viet offers a range of flavors to suit every taste. From their Premium Black Instant Coffee (strong, chocolatey, no sugar) to classic 3 in 1 blends (coffee, sugar, creamer), there’s something for everyone. Unique offerings like Cappuccino 4 in 1 (extra creamy), Ginseng Cappuccino (with energizing ginseng extract), and Coconut Instant Coffee (rich, tropical, and sweet) bring authentic Vietnamese coffee culture to life in convenient stick packs.

Why try Mr. Viet:
• Strong, chocolatey, full-bodied taste
• Wide selection of flavors and formats
• Eye-catching packaging and authentic Vietnamese flair

Discover Mr. Viet’s instant coffee

3. Mount Hagen

Mount Hagen is a pioneer in the world of organic instant coffee. Using 100% Arabica beans, their freeze-dried process preserves a mild, well-balanced flavor that’s earned them loyal fans.

Available in: classic black instant coffee (mild, smooth) and decaf options. Great for those who care about sustainability and a clean cup.

4. Waka Coffee

Waka Coffee has taken instant coffee to a new level by using freeze-dried 100% Arabica beans, resulting in bright, lively flavors. Their commitment to sustainability and social impact also sets them apart.

Available in: single-origin options like Indian, Colombian, and Ethiopian blends. Crisp, fruity, and specialty-inspired flavors.

5. Nescafé Azera

Building on its reputation as a household name, Nescafé’s Azera line delivers a richer, smoother cup than traditional instant coffee. With a creamy mouthfeel and balanced profile, it’s a reliable choice for many.

Available in: Americano, Espresso, and Latte variations.

6. Sudden Coffee

Sudden Coffee was an early innovator in the specialty instant coffee scene, freeze-drying small-batch roasted beans to maintain bright acidity and delicate notes.

Available in: limited seasonal single-origins. Great for coffee lovers who want a premium specialty experience on the go.

7. Café Altura

Known for their commitment to organic and fair trade practices, Café Altura’s instant coffee has a mild, earthy flavor that appeals to those seeking a balanced, gentle brew.

Available in: classic organic instant coffee. Smooth and low-acidity - easy on the stomach and perfect for daily drinking.

8. Jacob’s Kronung Instant

A staple in many European households, Jacob’s Kronung instant coffee is famous for its smooth and mellow profile. It’s an accessible choice that pairs well with milk and sugar.

Available in: classic instant format, offering a clean and approachable cup.

9. Douwe Egberts Pure Gold

Dutch brand Douwe Egberts has a long tradition in coffee roasting. Their Pure Gold instant blend is well-balanced and lightly sweet, making it a popular choice for those who want an approachable cup at any time of day.

Available in: standard instant format - mellow, familiar, and a great everyday choice.

Key Tips for Choosing the Best Instant Coffee

Processing Method Matters
Freeze-dried instant coffee typically has a fresher taste compared to traditional spray-dried options. Look for this on the label if you want a more refined flavor.

Arabica vs. Robusta
Arabica tends to be smoother and more aromatic, while Robusta brings more caffeine and body. Some blends combine both for balance — like Mr. Viet’s high-caffeine Robusta blends.

Packaging and Shelf Life
Single-serve sachets are perfect for travel, while jars or tins work well for home and office use. Make sure to store your instant coffee in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.

Certifications and Ethics
Organic, Fair Trade, and Rainforest Alliance certifications aren’t just buzzwords — they can indicate better farming practices and support for farming communities.

Why Instant Coffee Is Back in Style

Instant coffee is no longer just for emergencies. Today’s top brands offer a level of quality and variety that rivals many brewed coffees. Whether you’re a busy professional, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply appreciate a no-fuss cup, these instant options are worth exploring.

From the classic comfort of Jacob’s Kronung to the bold Vietnamese profile of Mr. Viet, the best instant coffee brands prove that you don’t have to compromise on flavor for convenience.

Read more