Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
When it comes to quick, convenient brews that are easy to clean up, a pod machine is impossible to beat. These machines are sleek and are available in all shapes and sizes from small models that be tucked away on your kitchen counter to larger models that include a frothier for cappuccinos.
This more affordable option from Nespresso's Vertuo line comes with different-shaped capsules as opposed to the standard Espresso pod, and allows you to 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 utilizes Centrifusion technology to make the best possible cup of espresso or long coffee by pressing a button. Its sophisticated barcode reader detects the type of Nespresso pod you've placed in it and automatically adjusts extraction settings for optimal results in the cup. It removes the need to adjust anything manually and only uses the precise amount of coffee, water and energy required for each capsule's unique drink size.
The machine utilizes centrifugal force to spin capsules at 7,000 rotations per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, creating an extremely smooth and thick crema. This helps evenly saturate each capsule with water prior to extraction, which is crucial to ensure a delicious coffee. The machine has a large 40-ounce water tank, which means you can make a large amount of espresso or coffee without having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine eliminates the capsule used and places it inside a container that is easy to remove and recycling.
The machine doesn't have an inbuilt milk frother however it can be used combination with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother to make lattes and cappuccinos. It's available in 13 different colors and features a slim, tall frame less than 9 inches in width, which makes it easy to fit on the kitchen counter. The top of the holder opens automatically, making it easier for those who aren't able to insert capsules.
The Nespresso coffee maker is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great deal 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 experiment with different combinations.
2. best latte machine is simple to use and won't cost a fortune. It comes in either cream or black, and can make five milk-based drinks with just a click of a button. These include macchiato cappuccino and a large. However, it's not as suitable for lattes and foamy drinks as a stand-alone milk frother. It also has a small water tank, and a limited choice of compatible capsules. So it could be more suited to espresso or black-coffee drinkers who aren't afraid of refilling and emptying the machine.
The tiniest and quietest 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 expense of traditional coffee makers. It is simple to use, with just one backlit stop&go that allows you to select the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its small size and stylish design make it the perfect complement to any space.
We tested the coffee only version. There's also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 that comes with an milk frother if enjoy milky drinks and lattes. It's easy to clean with clear plastic water tank that has indicators for MIN/MAX as well as a removable capsule drawer that can be rinsed under running water. It is shut down by itself after nine minutes of inactivity and the power cable can be separated from the machine, making it easier to move.
Like many capsule machines, it's important to clean your Jolie on a regular basis by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter, as well as the water tank. Periodic descaling will help it perform at its best for a long period of time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top pick for espresso lovers looking for an at-home real espresso machine. It's also among the few machines that we tested that can produce rich lattes that are creamy and the fine layer of foam to add a little something extra to your drink. Pound for pound it's also a great value as far as coffee makers for home use, especially when you consider that it's cheaper than professional machines.
In contrast to the other semi-automatic models we reviewed it's a real espresso maker that has an integrated grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand for milk-based drinks. That means that it has a little bit more of a learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still within reach for those who wish to learn to pull a perfect shot and create espresso art at home.
best affordable coffee machine is a huge airtight design that will preserve freshness and taste. It's also simple to remove to clean and refill, a major plus in our book. The tamper is removable as well and can be helpful if you prefer to manually stamp your shots or are using a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a fast heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings and dose control, as well as drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It is also easy to clean and operate, but it's not as durable as some other models. Its biggest disadvantage is that it may be loud when brewing, but the sound should diminish as you get familiar with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a compact quiet pod coffee maker which is perfect for small spaces. It's the smaller of the brands machines and is the most affordable capsule coffee maker (although you might still find some of its predecessors, like the Lavazza Tiny A Modo, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that isn't equipped with all the bells and whistles. It is quick to heat up and easy to use. It's also a good choice for those who want to test different flavors of capsules without shelling out for a more expensive model.
Despite best coffee machine with grinder despite its size, despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and used capsule container can be removed and the water tank comes with a handy MIN/MAX indicator. It is also dishwasher safe and dishwasher safe, allowing you to keep it as clean as possible. It should be cleaned every three to four months, and the instructions for doing so are in the manual.
Users love this little machine, giving it a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. The quiet operation and flexible choices it offers are a particular highlight, as is the fact that the pods can be recycled or composted is a big plus. Some users had issues with the capacity of the capsule however this was easily resolved.
In the box inside, you'll find an electrical plug and power cable, an instruction manual, a quick-guide warranty sheet, and a tester box with nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roasted, two are lungo, and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you'll have a variety of options for your next cup!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
With its sleek lines and compact size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit in modern kitchens. It is a coffee maker with the potential to revolutionize the way you make coffee at home.
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 and capsule bins 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 which can be used as an instant treat without the need to make it separately.
This machine is ideal for milk-based coffee lovers and aims to provide an authentic espresso with every sip. The machine's automatic brewing mechanism is so clever that it scans every capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the right level for the beverage you select. However, you will need to add an additional milk machine if you plan to make cappuccinos and lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet to use and is a good benefit for those who are early risers and those with busy families.
The VertuoPlus comes with more presets however, it isn't as customizable. This might not be an issue for coffee purists who prefer to experiment until they find the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be placed either at the rear or on the other side of the machine, according to the space available. The capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to store your next cup while the machine heats up and also alerts if you haven't refilled the tank with water or if the machine requires decaling.