## 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. 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 | 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) 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 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 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: 1. Remove the nozzle from the device 2. Rinse both under warm running water 3. Clean the nozzle with the supplied brush 4. Ensure the USB port cover is closed before washing 5. 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](https://shop.guinness-storehouse.com) - 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](/guides/equipment/home-guinness-bar-setup).

Guinness Nitrosurge: Complete Guide