What is Guinness Nitrosurge?
The Nitrosurge is Guinness's current at-home device. It rolled out across Ireland in September 2021 and launched in the UK in early 2023, initially exclusively in selected Tesco stores. It attaches directly to a Nitrosurge can via a nozzle and uses ultrasonic technology to create the Guinness surge as you pour. It's rechargeable and designed to be rinsed under the tap.
Did you know?
The Nitrosurge requires special Nitrosurge cans (not regular widget cans). Using it with standard Guinness Draught cans will break out too much gas and result in a thin, flat pint.
Nitrosurge vs. Surger
| Feature | Nitrosurge | Surger |
|---|---|---|
| Can compatibility | Nitrosurge cans (no widget) | Surger cans (no widget) |
| Size | Pocket-sized, attaches to can | Countertop unit |
| Power | USB rechargeable | Mains-powered (home kit) |
| Activation | During pour | After pour (glass on plate) |
| Water needed | No | Yes (on metal plate) |
| Waterproof | Yes | No |
| Availability | Widely sold | UK home kit withdrawn in 2008 |
Warning
Neither device works properly with regular Guinness Draught widget cans. The widget already activates the nitrogen - using a Surger or Nitrosurge on top creates over-foaming and a thin pint.
What's in the Box
- Nitrosurge device
- Detachable nozzle
- USB charging cable
- Nozzle cleaning brush
Setting Up Your Nitrosurge
Step 1: Charge the Device
The Nitrosurge has a built-in rechargeable battery. Connect the included USB cable to charge. Guinness says a full charge takes about 8 hours.
Step 2: Attach the Nozzle
Push the specially designed nozzle firmly onto the device. This is what connects to the can.
Step 3: Check the Indicator
When you press the button, the Guinness harp icon lights up to show the device is on and charged. If it flashes rather than holding steady, put it on charge.
Pro Tip
Guinness's own FAQ puts a full charge at around 100 uses. The device can be rinsed under warm running water for cleaning.
How to Use Nitrosurge
Step 1: Chill Your Nitrosurge Can
Ensure your Guinness Nitrosurge can is properly cold (3-5°C). Standard fridge temperature works perfectly.
Step 2: Open and Connect
Open your Nitrosurge can, then align the nozzle with the can opening and push the device firmly into place.
Step 3: Activate
Press the power button. The Harp will illuminate, and the ultrasonic transducer begins working to create the surge.
Step 4: Pour at 45 Degrees
Hold the can horizontally with the device attached. Tilt your glass to 45 degrees and begin pouring. Fill the glass about two-thirds full.
Step 5: Settle
Set the glass down and let it settle for about 60 seconds. Watch the cascade work its magic.
Step 6: Top Up
Without pressing the button again, angle the can at 45 degrees and slowly top up. This creates the classic domed head. Tease the last few drops into the creamy head.
The Nitrosurge Difference
What It Does
- Creates the iconic two-part pour cascade
- Produces a thick, creamy domed head
- Uses ultrasonic technology
- Delivers a pub-quality experience at home
What It Doesn't Do
- Work with regular widget cans (you need Nitrosurge cans)
- Change the beer's flavour
- Require any setup beyond charging
Pro Tip
The Nitrosurge is designed to replicate the draft experience at home. In our own use it gets closer to a pub pour than a widget can does, though that is our impression rather than a measured result.
Troubleshooting
Device Not Working
- Check the device is charged (press button to see harp indicator)
- Ensure the nozzle is properly attached
- Clean any beer residue from the nozzle
- Put it on charge if the battery is flat
Weak Cascade/Head
- Can not cold enough
- Using wrong type of can (must be Nitrosurge cans, not widget cans)
- Device needs charging
- Nozzle blocked - clean with supplied brush
Over-Foaming
- Using regular widget cans instead of Nitrosurge cans
- Can was agitated before opening
- Can too warm
Warning
If you're getting thin, over-foamed pints, check your cans. Nitrosurge cans have no widget inside. Regular Guinness Draught cans (with widget) will NOT work properly with this device.
Cleaning & Maintenance
After Each Use
Guinness advises cleaning before and after every use:
- Remove the nozzle from the device
- Rinse both under warm running water
- Clean the nozzle with the supplied brush
- Ensure the USB port cover is closed before washing
- Let air dry or wipe with a clean cloth
Important Care Notes
- Rinse under warm running water only; do not wet the USB cable
- Always seal the USB port cover before washing
- The device is NOT dishwasher safe
Real-World Results
Our Take
This is informal experience from using the device at home, not a measured test:
- Consistency: with cold cans and the technique above, results have been reliably good
- Compared with the pub: close to a good draft pour, and clearly better than a widget can in our opinion
- Convenience: rechargeable, rinseable and small enough to take anywhere
- Value: worth it if you drink canned Guinness regularly and can get Nitrosurge cans
Best Use Cases
- Home drinking when you want the full draft experience
- Parties and gatherings (impress your guests)
- Camping/outdoor events (portable and rechargeable)
- Hotels and travel
- Anywhere you can get Nitrosurge cans
Is Nitrosurge Worth It?
Yes, if:
- You want pub-quality Guinness at home
- You can easily find Nitrosurge cans in your area
- You appreciate the ritual and the proper two-part pour
- You drink Guinness regularly enough to justify the device
Maybe Not, if:
- Nitrosurge cans aren't available where you live
- You rarely drink Guinness
- You're happy with standard widget pours
- You live next to a pub with excellent draft Guinness
Where to Buy
The Device
Nitrosurge devices launched in the UK exclusively at Tesco and are now sold by major supermarkets and online retailers.
Nitrosurge Cans
Look for cans specifically labelled "Guinness Draught Nitrosurge" - these are different from regular Guinness Draught cans. They're increasingly available at major supermarkets in the UK and Ireland.
Nothing beats a well-kept draft line, though. Find the community-rated Guinness pubs near you for the real thing.
Sources
- Guinness NitroSurge FAQ — around 100 uses per charge, 8-hour charge, Nitrosurge cans only, cleaning advice
- Metal Packager: Guinness Nitrosurge UK launch — Ireland rollout September 2021; UK launch exclusively at Tesco
- Guinness Surger blog: why the Surger is no longer available in UK shops — home Surger unit withdrawn April 2008
Planning a complete home setup? Check out our guide to setting up a home Guinness bar.
