12 Companies Setting The Standard In Best Capsule Coffee Machine
Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is the ideal option for quick, convenient coffee drinks. They are also easy to clean and easy to use. These machines are sleek and come in all shapes and sizes from tiny models that fit on your worktop to larger models that include an ice cream maker for cappuccinos.
The cheapest option in Nespresso's Vertuo range comes with different shaped capsules to the standard Espresso pod. You can select between five choices for brewing: Espresso, Double Espresso Gran Lungo Mug, Extra Large Alto.
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
The VertuoPlus line of capsule coffee makers is among Nespresso's top-of-the-line options. This particular model uses Centrifusion technology to brew the best possible cup of long or espresso at the touch of the button. Its barcode scanner is clever and can identify the kind of Nespresso pod you've put in and automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve optimal results in the cup. It eliminates the need to adjust anything manually and only uses the exact amount of coffee, water and energy needed for each capsule's unique drink size.
The machine uses centrifugal force to spin the capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute, blending ground coffee with water, creating a thick, velvety crema. This helps evenly coat each capsule with water before extraction, which is important for a flavorful coffee. The machine has a large 40-ounce tank of water which means you can make a large amount of espresso or coffee without having to empty it. The machine will automatically empty the capsule that is used up after brewing and place it in a container that can be easily removed and reused.
The machine isn't equipped with a milk frother built in, but can be used with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It comes in 13 colours and is slim and tall, weighing less than 9 inches. This makes it easy to set up on the counter in your kitchen. The top of the holder opens automatically to make it easier for those who aren't able to insert capsules.
best compact coffee machine is available on Amazon for $119. It's a bargain for a machine which can produce the best cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with a starter kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) so you can test the blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee machine that's simple to use and won't cost a fortune. It's available in cream or black and makes five milk-based recipes at the push of the button including cappuccino large as well as latte macchiato. However, it's not as suitable for lattes and foamy drinks as a stand-alone milk frother. It has a tiny water tank, and only a small selection of compatible capsules. This makes it more suitable for espresso or black coffee drinkers who are able to refill and empty the machine on a regular basis.
The tiniest and most quiet of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a great tasting, high-quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle or cost of traditional coffee makers. It is simple to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go that allows you to select the amount of coffee you want or hot cocoa. Its small size and stylish design make it the perfect addition to any space.
We tried the coffee-only model of the machine. There is also an Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that includes milk-frothers if you're fan of lattes and milk-based drinks. It's easy to clean with clear plastic water tank that has indicators for MIN/MAX and an adjustable capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It is shut down automatically after nine minutes, and the power cable is able to be removed from the machine.
Like many capsule machines, it's essential to clean your Jolie regularly by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter, as well as the water tank. A regular descaling process will allow it to keep its performance at its peak for a long period of time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a ideal choice for those who want an espresso machine that is at home. It's also one of the few machines that we tested that can produce rich, creamy lattes as well as the thin layer of foam to add a little something extra to your drinks. Pound for pound it's also an excellent value for home coffee makers go especially when you consider that it's less expensive than professional machines.
Unlike some of the other semi-automatic models that we reviewed, this is a true espresso maker that has a built-in grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand for milk-based drinks. It has a bit of an uphill learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. However, it's still accessible to those who wish to master the art of making a great espresso and latte art.
The hopper is a large airtight design that keeps freshness and taste. It is also easy to take out and refill, which we believe is an important benefit. The tamper can also be removed, which is a great option if you want to manually tamp your shots or use a double-wall filters.
Other notable features include a fast-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and drip tray that keeps the beans from your water. It's also easy to use and clean however it's not the longest-lasting product available. Its main drawback is loudness during brewing. However, this is likely to be less noticeable as you get comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a small quiet pod coffee machine which is perfect for small spaces. It's the most compact of the machines from the brand, and is Lavazza's cheapest capsule coffee maker (although you can still find some of its predecessors, like the Lavazza Tiny, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini doesn't have the additional bells and whistles of the other machines on this list However, it can do everything a basic pod machine is supposed to do. It's fast to heat up, and it's easy to use. It's a great option for those looking to test different flavors of capsules without having to shell out for a more expensive model.
Despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed and the water tank comes with an easy-to-read indicator for MIN/MAX. It's also dishwasher safe, so you can keep it as clean as you can. It needs to be descaling every three to four months, and the guidelines to do this are provided in the manual.
Users are raving about this tiny machine, giving it a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. The quiet operation and various options it offers are particularly appreciated, and the fact that the capsules can be composted or recycled is highly appreciated. Some users did have issues with the capacity of the used capsule container however this was easily solved.
Inside the box there's a power cable and plug as well as an instruction manual, a quick-guide warranty sheet, and a tester box with nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted, and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of these are organic, meaning you have a wide range of choices for your next cup!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is created to be suitable for modern kitchens with its compact size and clean lines. It's a coffee maker with the potential to change how you make coffee in your home.
Our team of testers was impressed by the speed with which it made a cup of coffee and the quality of the final product. The sleek machine is easy to clean, and the capsule bin and waste tray are large enough to prevent the accumulation of capsules that have been used. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules which can be used as an instant treat without the need to make it separately.
This machine is perfect for those who like milk-based beverages and want to give a real espresso with every sip. The machine's automated brewing system is so precise that it scans every capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the appropriate level for the drink you select. You will need an additional machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini operates at a low level, which is perfect for those who are up early or have a hectic family.
The VertuoPlus offers more presets, however it isn't as customizable. This may not be an issue for coffee purists that prefer to experiment until they find the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be placed in the back or on one side of the machine, based on your worktop space and the drawer for capsules has room for 13 large pods. Other features include the option to store your next drink while the machine heats up as well alerts when you've not refilled the water tank or if the machine needs decaling.