3 Common Reasons Why Your Best Capsule Coffee Machine Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)
Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is a great choice for quick, easy drinks. They are also easy to clean and simple to use. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from small models to larger models that come with frothier for cappuccinos.
This more affordable option from Nespresso's Vertuo line uses different shaped capsules as opposed to the standard Espresso pod and lets you choose between five brewing sizes: Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug and Extra Large Alto.
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
The VertuoPlus line of capsule coffee machines is one of Nespresso's more high-end options. This model utilizes Centrifusion to brew the perfect cup of espresso or long-lasting cup of coffee at the push of a button. Its sophisticated barcode reader detects the kind of Nespresso pod you've put in and automatically adjusts extraction settings to ensure optimal results in the cup. This means you don't have to set anything manually and it reduces waste by only using the precise amount of energy, water and coffee needed for each specific capsule size.
The machine utilizes centrifugal force to spin capsules at 7,000 turns per minute. The machine blends ground coffee with water, resulting in a rich and velvety crema. This process also helps evenly coat the capsule with water prior to extraction which is a crucial factor in getting a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine comes with a 40-ounce water tank, making it possible to make a large amount of espresso or coffee without having to empty it. The machine will automatically eject the used capsule after brewing and put it in a container to be easily removed and recycled.
This machine does not come with a built-in milk frother in, but can be utilized with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It's available in 13 different colors and features an incredibly slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide, which makes it easy to place on the countertop of your kitchen. The top of the holder is opened automatically to make it easier for people with limited dexterity to insert capsules.
The Nespresso coffee maker is currently on sale on Amazon for $119 it's a great price for an advanced machine that's capable of making the most delicious cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with an initial kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) to allow you to experiment with the blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A stylish capsule coffee machine that's simple to use and won't cost you a fortune. It's available in cream or black, and can make five milk-based drinks with a touch of a switch. This includes cappuccino macchiato and large. It's not suitable for lattes or frothy drinks like a standalone milk frother. It has a tiny water tank, and a limited selection of compatible capsules. This could make it more suitable for black or espresso coffee drinkers who are willing to refill and empty the machine frequently.
Jolie, the smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines is ideal for those who love top-quality Italian coffee without the hassle of a traditional machine. It is easy to use, with just one backlit stop&go that allows you to select the amount of coffee you want or hot cocoa. Its compact size and elegant design make it the perfect addition to any interior.
We tested the coffee-only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes milk frothers if you enjoy milky drinks and lattes. The machine is easy to clean thanks to a an easy-to-clean water tank with indicators for MIN/MAX and the removable capsule tray can be washed with running water. It shuts down automatically after nine minutes of inactivity and the power cable can be detached from the machine, making it easy to move.
Like many capsule machines, it is important to clean your Jolie on a regular basis by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter, as well as the water tank. Regular descaling can help it perform at its best for a long period of time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a great choice for espresso lovers who are looking for an actual espresso machine at home. It's also among the few machines that we test that produces rich, creamy lattes and also the thin layer of foam that can add a little something extra to your beverages. It's also a great bargain for home coffee makers, especially when you take into account that it is less expensive than professional machines.
This is a real espresso machine, which is different from some semi-automatic models we looked at. It has an integrated steam wand as well as PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. It's got a little bit more of an education curve than the Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic, or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still well within reach for those who want to master the art of pulling an amazing shot and create the perfect latte at home.
The hopper is a large airtight design that will preserve freshness and taste. It is also easy to take out and refill, which we believe is a major bonus. The tamper is also removable as well and can be helpful when you prefer to manually tamp your shots or are using a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a quick heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings and dose control, as well as a drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also easy to clean and use, but it's not as durable as some other models. Its biggest drawback is its loudness during brewing. However, this should diminish as you get more comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a small quiet pod coffee maker that's ideal for small spaces. It's the smallest model within the Lavazza range and is also the cheapest capsule coffee maker. (You can still find the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't come with all the bells and whistles. It's fast to heat up and is easy to use. It's also a good choice for those who want to try out different flavours of capsules without the need to shell out for a bigger model.
Despite its size, despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed, and the water tank has an easy-to-read MIN/MAX indicator. It's also dishwasher safe, so you can keep it as hygienic as possible. The manual provides instructions on how to decal it every three to four month.
This small machine is adored by its users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The quiet operation and flexibility of the options it provides are a particular highlight, as is the fact that the pods can be recycled or composted is highly appreciated. Some users had issues with the size of the capsule container but this was easily rectified.
There's also a power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide a warranty sheet and a tester containing nine Lavazza pods. This Web page of the nine pods are roasts and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you have a wide range of options to choose from 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 sleek design and compact size. It has the potential to change the way you make coffee at home, and is available at a very affordable cost.
Our test team was impressed with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin and capsule bin are large enough to avoid a build-up of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with a pack of 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules that can be used to make an instant treat without the need to make it separately.
This machine is perfect for those who like milk-based coffees and want to give a real espresso with every sip. The machine's automatic brewing mechanism is so sophisticated that it scans every capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the appropriate level for the drink you choose. You will need an additional machine for making lattes or cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is ideal for those who are up early or have a hectic family.
It's not as equipped with the same amount of customisable presets that are available as the VertuoPlus however this might not be an issue for coffee lovers who prefer to tinker until they find their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be positioned in the rear or on the other side of the machine depending on the space available. The drawer for capsules holds 13 large pods. Other features include the capability to hold your next cup while the machine is heating up, and alerts when you've not filled it with water or if it requires descaling.