Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
When it comes to fast and convenient drinks that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod machine is difficult to beat. These sleek machines are available in a range of sizes and shapes, ranging from small models to larger models that come with frothier options for cappuccinos.
This lower-cost alternative from Nespresso's Vertuo line comes with different-shaped capsules than the standard Espresso pod and lets you select between five different sizes of brewing: 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 most expensive options. This particular model uses Centrifusion technology to make the most perfect cup of espresso or long coffee with the push of the button. Its barcode scanner is clever and can identify the kind of Nespresso pod you've inserted and automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve the best results in-cup. It removes the necessity to manually adjust everything and only uses the exact amount of coffee, water and energy needed to make each drink's exact size.
The machine utilizes centrifugal force to spin the capsules at 7,000 rpm per minute, blending ground coffee with water and producing a rich velvety crema. This helps evenly coat each capsule with water prior extraction, which is crucial for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine comes with a 40-ounce water tank, so you can make plenty of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. After brewing, the machine automatically eliminates the capsule used and puts it inside an internal container for easy removal and recycling.
This machine does not come with a built-in milk frother into it, but it can be used in conjunction with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for lattes or cappuccinos. It's available in 13 colors and features a slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide which makes it easy to fit on the countertop of your kitchen. The top of the holder is opened automatically to make it easier for people who aren't able to insert capsules.
The Nespresso coffee machine is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great deal for a machine that will produce the best cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with the starter kit, which includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) which allows you to test the blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
This sleek capsule coffee maker is easy to use and won't cost you an arm and a leg. It comes in cream or black, and makes five milk-based recipes at the push of an button including cappuccino large as well as latte macchiato. It's not suited to lattes or frothy drinks such as a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively tiny water tank and limited choice of compatible capsules, so it might be more suitable for black or espresso drinkers who don't mind regularly refilling and emptying the machine.
The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is perfect for those who want to enjoy delicious, premium Italian coffee at home without the hassle or cost of a traditional coffee maker. It is simple to use, with just one backlit stop&go to select the amount of coffee you want or hot cocoa. Its compact size and elegant design make it the perfect addition to any space.
We tested the coffee only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes an milk frother if enjoy milky drinks and lattes. The machine is easy to clean with an uncluttered water tank that has indicator lights for MIN/MAX as well as an ejectable capsule tray that can be washed with running water. It shuts down automatically after nine minutes of inactivity. Additionally, the power cable can be separated from the machine, making it simple to move.
Like other 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 perform at its best for a long time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a excellent choice for those who want a real espresso machine at home. It's also among the few machines we tested that can produce rich lattes that are creamy and smooth and the fine layer of foam to add some extra flavor to your beverages. It's also a great value for home coffee makers, especially when you consider that it's less expensive than professional machines.
In contrast to the other semi-automatic models that we reviewed This is a real espresso maker that comes with an integrated grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand to make milk-based drinks. That means that it has some more of an learning curve than 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 latte art at home.
This model's most notable feature is the large bean hopper, which has been designed with an airtight seal to protect the freshness and flavor. It is also easy to take out and refill, which we consider an important benefit. The tamper is also removable too, which can be useful in the event that you want to manually tamp your shots or are using double-wall filters.
Other notable features include a fast-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also easy to clean and operate, but it's not as durable as some other models. Its greatest disadvantage is that it can be a bit loud when it's being made however the sound should fade as you become more familiar with it.
4. click hyperlink is small and quiet, making it ideal for small spaces. It is the smallest machine in the Lavazza range and is also the cheapest capsule coffee maker. (You can still purchase the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that isn't equipped with all the bells and whistles. It's fast to heat up and is easy to use. It's an excellent choice for those who wish to taste different flavors without having to purchase an expensive model.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean, regardless of its size. The drip tray and capsule container can be taken out, and the water tank is equipped with a handy MIN/MAX indicator. It's also dishwasher safe, so you can keep it as clean as possible. It needs to be descaling every three to four months, and the instructions for doing so are in the manual.
The users love this small machine and have given it a score of 4.4 out of five stars on Amazon. The quiet operation and flexible choices it offers are particularly noted, while the fact that the pods can be composted or recycled is highly appreciated. Some users were unhappy with the size of the capsule container, but this was easily rectified.
Additionally, you'll find the power cord and plug, an instructional manual, a quick-guide, warranty information and a tester that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted, and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of the varieties are organic, so you'll have a variety of options for your next cup!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini was created to be suitable for modern kitchens thanks to its compact size and clean lines. It has the potential to revolutionise the way you prepare coffee at home and is available at a very affordable price.
Our team of testers was impressed with the speed and quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean, and the waste bin as well as capsule bins are big enough to avoid a build-up of capsules that have been used. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with a pack of 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules which can be used as an instant treat without the need to brew it separately.
This machine is perfect for milk-based coffee lovers and aims to give you an authentic espresso with each sip. The machine's automatic brewing mechanism is so clever that it scans each capsule barcode and adjusts the settings to the appropriate level for the beverage you select. You will need an additional machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet to use, which is a advantage for early risers and those with an active family.
It doesn't have as many customisable presets as the VertuoPlus however this might not be a problem for coffee purists who like to tweak until they find their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be set towards the back or to one side of the machine depending on the size of your worktop, and the used capsule drawer has room for 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to store your next cup as the machine heats up and also alerts if you've not refilled the tank with water, or if the machine needs decaling.