Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
If you're looking for quick, convenient brews that are easy to clean up, a pod maker is difficult to beat. These sleek machines are available in all shapes and sizes from tiny models that be tucked away on your kitchen counter to larger models with the ability to make a frothier drink for cappuccinos.
The cheapest option in Nespresso's Vertuo range comes with different shaped capsules that are different to the standard Espresso pod. You can select among five different 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 more high-end options. This particular model utilizes Centrifusion technology to brew the most perfect cup of espresso or long coffee at the touch of a button. Its sophisticated barcode reader detects the kind of Nespresso pod you've put in and automatically adjusts extraction settings for optimal in-cup results. It removes the need to manually adjust anything 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 capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute, mixing ground coffee with water and producing a thick, velvety crema. This process helps to evenly fill each capsule with water prior extraction, which is crucial for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine is equipped with a 40-ounce tank of water, so you can make a large amount of coffee or espresso before having to empty it. The machine will automatically remove the capsule that is used up after brewing and put it in a container that can be easily removed and reused.
The machine isn't equipped with a milk maker built in, but can be used in conjunction with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It's available in 13 different colors and has a slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide which makes it easy to fit on your kitchen countertop. The top of the holder is opened automatically to make it easier for people who have difficulty inserting capsules.
The Nespresso coffee machine is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great price for a machine that will make the most delicious cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6), and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This lets you to play around with different blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee machine that is simple to use and won't cost you a fortune. It's available in cream or black and can make five milk-based recipes at the push of an button, including cappuccino large and latte macchiato. However, it's not as suitable for lattes or foamy drinks as a stand-alone milk frother. It has a tiny water tank, and an assortment of compatible capsules. coffeee.uk may make it more suitable for espresso or black coffee drinkers who want to refill and empty the machine regularly.
The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is the perfect choice for those who wish to enjoy delicious, premium Italian coffee at home without the hassle or cost of traditional coffee makers. It's easy to use, with just one stop&go button that is backlit to select the desired amount of hot or coffee chocolate, and it can be used in silence. Its sleek design and compact size make it a great accessory to any room.
We tested the coffee-only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 that comes with a milk frother if you like milky drinks and lattes. It's easy to keep clean, with clear plastic water tank with indicators for MIN/MAX as well as a removable capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It will shut off automatically after nine minutes, and the power cable can easily be removed from the machine.
Like many capsule machines, it is important to clean your Jolie regularly by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. Periodic descaling will help it keep its performance at its peak for a long period of time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a excellent choice for those who are looking for a real espresso machine at home. It's among the few we tested that can make rich, creamy lattes and even produce the thin layer foam that gives a little extra something to your drink. Pound for pound it's also a great value for coffee makers for home use, 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 has an integrated grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand to make milk-based beverages. It has a bit more of a steep learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. However, it's still within reach for those who wish to learn how to make the perfect espresso and latte art.
The most prominent feature of this model is the large bean hopper that's been designed with an airtight seal that will preserve freshness and taste. It's also simple to remove for cleaning and refilling which is a major benefit in our book. The tamper is removable as well it can be useful when you prefer to manually tap your shots or using double-wall filters.
Other important features include a rapid-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and drip tray that keeps the beans away from your water. It's also easy to clean and operate, but it's not as durable as other models. The biggest issue is its loudness when it's brewing. However, this will diminish as you get more comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee maker is small and quiet, which makes it perfect for small spaces. It's the smallest machine within the Lavazza range and is also the cheapest capsule coffee maker. (You can still purchase the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini doesn't have the additional bells and whistles of the other machines on this list, but it can do everything a basic pod machine is supposed to do. It heats quickly and is easy to use. It's an excellent choice for those who wish to try different flavours without having to buy larger models.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean regardless of its size. The drip tray and used capsule container can be taken out, and the water tank is equipped with an easy-to-read indicator of MIN/MAX. It's dishwasher-safe, which means you can keep it as hygienic as you can. It needs to be descaling every three to four months, and the guidelines for doing this are included in the manual.
This tiny machine is loved by users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The machine's quiet operation, the wide range of options it offers, and the possibility that the pods can be composted or recycled are all highly appreciated. Some users were unhappy with the size of the used capsule container but this was easily fixed.
Inside the box there's a power cable and plug as well as an instruction manual, quick-guide, warranty sheet and a tester box containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roast and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, meaning you'll have plenty to choose from for your next cuppa!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini has been designed to be a perfect fit for modern kitchens with its small size and clean lines. It is a coffee maker that has the potential to revolutionise the way you prepare coffee at home.
Our test team was impressed with the speed and quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin and capsule bins are large enough to avoid a build-up of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with 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 enjoy milk-based beverages and want to provide a true espresso in every sip. Its clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule and automatically adjusts the settings to the ideal quality for the drink you choose. But, you'll need to add a separate milk machine if you plan to make lattes and cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is ideal for those who get up early or have a busy household.
The VertuoPlus comes with more presets however it isn't as customizable. This may not be an issue for coffee purists who like to experiment until they have the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be positioned either 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 queue your next cup as the machine heats up as well as alerts when you've not refilled the tank with water or if the machine requires decaling.