What is Guinness Nitrosurge?

The Nitrosurge is Guinness's newest at-home device, launched in 2022. It attaches directly to a Nitrosurge can via a nozzle and uses an ultrasonic transducer to create the iconic Guinness surge as you pour. It's rechargeable, waterproof, and designed for convenience.

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	4 AA batteries
Activation	During pour	After pour (glass on plate)
Water needed	No	Yes (on metal plate)
Waterproof	Yes	No
Availability	Widely sold	Discontinued/rare

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-A to Micro-USB charging cable
Nozzle cleaning brush
Instruction booklet

Setting Up Your Nitrosurge

Step 1: Charge the Device

The Nitrosurge comes with rechargeable batteries built in. Connect the included USB cable to charge. A full charge takes about 8 hours, but a quick 10-minute charge is enough for 2-3 pints.

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 illuminates:

Solid white light: Fully charged and ready
Flashing white: Charging
Flashing white/red: Low battery (about 5 pours remaining)

Pro Tip

A full charge provides around 50+ pours. The device is waterproof, so you can rinse it under the tap for easy 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 tuned to Guinness's specifications
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 specifically designed to replicate the draft experience. Many users find it produces results very close to a proper pub pour - significantly better than widget cans.

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
Try a 10-minute charge if battery is flat

Weak Cascade/Head

Can not cold enough (chill for at least 24 hours)
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

Clean before and after every use for best results:

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

The device is waterproof - you can rinse it freely
Do NOT wet the USB cable
Always close the rear rubber cover over the USB port before washing
The device is NOT dishwasher safe
Comes with a 1-year warranty

Real-World Results

Our Testing

After extensive use, we found:

Consistency: 9/10 - Results were reliably excellent with proper technique
Pub-quality comparison: Very close to a good draft pour
Convenience: Excellent - Rechargeable, waterproof, portable
Value: Great for anyone who wants draft-quality Guinness at home

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 are available at:

Guinness Storehouse shop
Major supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons in UK)
Amazon and online retailers
The Bar (Diageo's online store)

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.

Planning a complete home setup? Check out our guide to setting up a home Guinness bar.

Guinness Nitrosurge: Complete Guide