Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
When it comes to quick easy, convenient brews that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod maker is impossible to beat. These sleek machines come in all sizes and shapes, from minis that can be placed on the worktop, to larger models that include the ability to make a frothier drink for cappuccinos.
This lower-cost option from Nespresso's Vertuo line uses 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 makers is among Nespresso's most expensive options. This particular model uses Centrifusion technology to make the best possible cup of espresso or long coffee with the push of the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to achieve optimal results in the cup. This means you don't have to manually set anything, and it eliminates unnecessary waste by using only the exact amount of water, energy and coffee needed for each capsule-specific drink 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 thick and velvety crema. This process helps to evenly coat each capsule with water prior to extraction, which is crucial for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine also has a large, 40-ounce water tank, so you can make many cups of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine ejects the used capsule and then puts it inside an internal container for easy removal and recycling.
This machine doesn't come with an integrated milk frother, however, it can be used conjunction with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes. It comes in 13 different colours and is slim and tall, weighing less than 9 inches. This makes it easy to place on the counter in your kitchen. The top of the capsule holder is opened automatically to make it easier for those who aren't able to insert capsules.
This Nespresso coffee maker is currently available on Amazon for $119 it's a great price for an advanced machine that's capable of making the finest long or espresso. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This lets you to experiment with various blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee maker that is simple to use and won't cost you a fortune. It comes in either black or cream, and it can make five milk-based drinks with a touch of a switch. This includes macchiato cappuccino and a large. It's not ideal for lattes or frothy drinks such as a standalone milk frother. It has a tiny water tank, and a small selection of compatible capsules. This could make it more suitable for black or espresso coffee drinkers who want to refill and empty the machine regularly.
Jolie The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines is ideal for those who appreciate high-quality Italian coffee without the hassle of traditional machines. 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 sleek design and compact dimensions make it an ideal addition to any interior.
We tried the coffee-only version of the machine. There is also an Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that has a milk-frother if you're a fan of lattes and milk-based drinks. It's easy to clean, with an uncluttered plastic water tank, with MIN/MAX indicators and a removable capsule drawer that can be rinsed under running water. It shuts off automatically after 9 minutes and the power cable can easily be removed from the machine.
Like other 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. De-scaling it regularly will ensure it is operating at its best.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top pick for espresso lovers looking for an at-home, real espresso machine. It's one of the few we tested that can make rich creamy lattes, and produce the thin layer of foam that gives a little more flavor to your drinks. It's also a great deal for coffee makers at home, especially when you take into account that it's less expensive than professional machines.
This is a true espresso machine, which is different from some of the semi-automatic models we have looked at. It comes with an integrated steam wand as well as PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. It has a bit of an uphill learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. However, it is still accessible to those who wish to master the art of making a great espresso and the art of latte.
The hopper is a large airtight design that keeps freshness and taste. It's also easy to remove for cleaning and refilling this is a major advantage in our book. The tamper can also be removed which is a great option for those who want to manually tamp your shots or use a double-wall filters.
Other noteworthy features include a rapid heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings and dose control, and drip tray that keeps beans out of your water. It is also easy to clean and use, but it's not as durable as some other models. The biggest issue is its loudness during 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 machine is small and quiet, making it ideal for small spaces. It is the smallest machine within the Lavazza range and the cheapest capsule coffee maker. (You can still purchase the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini doesn't have the extra bells and whistles of the other machines in this list It can do everything a basic pod machine is supposed to do. It is quick to heat up and simple to use. It's a great option for those looking to taste different flavors without having to buy larger models.
Despite its size, even at its size, Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be taken out, and the water tank is equipped with a handy indicator of MIN/MAX. a knockout post is also dishwasher-safe, so that you can keep it as clean as is possible. It needs to be descaling every three to four months, and the guidelines for doing this are included in the manual.
Users are raving about this tiny machine, giving it a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. discover this , the range of options it provides and the fact that pods can be recycled or composted are all highly appreciated. There were some users who had issues with the capacity of the capsule, but this was easily resolved.
Inside the box there's a power cable and plug along with an instruction manual, quick-guide, warranty sheet, and a tester box that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roast and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your next cup!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
With its clean lines and small size with its sleek lines and compact size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit perfectly into modern kitchens. It is an espresso maker with the potential to revolutionize how you make coffee in your home.
Our test team was awestruck with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin and 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 that can be used to make an instant treat without the need to brew it separately.
This machine is ideal for milk-based coffee lovers and aims to give you the authentic espresso in every sip. Its ingenious automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule and automatically adjusts the settings to the ideal level for your chosen drink. But, you'll need to add a separate milk machine if you intend to make lattes and cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini operates at a low level, which is perfect for those who get up early or have a hectic family.
It doesn't have the same number of customizable presets 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 one side of the machine, depending on the space available. The capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to queue your next cup as the machine heats up, and also alerts if you've not refilled the tank with water or if the machine requires decaling.