Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?

When it comes to fast, convenient brews that are easy to clean up, a pod maker is difficult to beat. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from small models to larger models that come with frothier options for cappuccinos.

This affordable option from Nespresso’s Vertuo range comes with different shaped capsules to the standard Espresso pod. You can choose among five choices for brewing: Espresso, Double Espresso Gran Lungo Mug, Extra Large Alto.

1. Nespresso VertuoPlus

VertuoPlus capsule coffee machines are among Nespresso’s higher-end options. This particular model utilizes Centrifusion technology to brew the most perfect cup of long or espresso at the touch of one button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to ensure the best home bean to cup coffee machine results in the cup. This means you don't have to set everything manually and eliminates unnecessary waste by using only the exact amount of energy, water and coffee required for each size of capsule-specific drink.

The machine uses centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 turns per minute. The machine blends ground coffee with water, producing an extremely smooth and thick crema. The process also helps evenly saturate the capsule with water prior to extraction, which is an important aspect in making a tasty cup of coffee. The machine also has a huge, 40-ounce water tank, so you can make many cups of coffee or espresso before having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine ejects the used capsule and places it inside an internal container for easy removal and recycling.

The machine doesn't come with a built-in milk frother in, but can be utilized with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for lattes or cappuccinos. It's available in 13 different colors and features a slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide, which makes it easy to place on the countertop of 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 machine is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a bargain for a machine that can make the most delicious cup of long coffee or espresso. It comes with an initial kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) to allow you to test the blends.

2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

This sleek capsule coffee maker is easy to use and won't cost an arm and a leg. It comes in cream or black and makes five milk-based recipes with the touch of an button, including cappuccino large and latte macchiato. However, it's not suitable for lattes or frosty drinks as a standalone milk frother. It has a tiny water tank, and an assortment of compatible capsules. This may make it more suitable for espresso or black coffee drinkers who are willing to refill and empty the machine on a regular basis.

The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is perfect 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 easy to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go for selecting the amount of coffee you want or hot cocoa. Its compact size and elegant design makes it the perfect match to any room.

We tested the coffee only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes milk frothers if you like milky drinks and lattes. The machine is easy to clean using a an uncluttered water tank with MIN/MAX indicator lights and an ejectable capsule tray that is washable under running water. It shuts off automatically after nine minutes, and the power cable is able to be removed from the machine.

As with 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 coffee machine uk 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 among the few we've tested that can make rich, creamy lattes and even produce the thin layer of foam that gives a little more flavor to your drink. Pound for pound it's also an excellent value as far as home coffee machine best makers go particularly when you consider that it's less expensive than professional-level machines.

In contrast to the other semi-automatic models that we reviewed, this is a true espresso maker that has a built-in grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand that can be used for milk-based beverages. It has a bit more of an arduous learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. However, it is still within reach for those who wish to master a great espresso and the art of latte.

The most prominent feature of this model is the bean to cup coffee machine best hopper that is large that's been designed with an airtight seal to protect freshness and flavor. It is also easy to remove and refill, which is an important benefit. The tamper can also be removed, which is helpful for those who want to manually tamp shots or use a double-wall filter.

Other notable features include a fast heating thermoblock as well as adjustable grind settings and dose control, as well as drip tray that keeps beans out of your water. It's also easy to use and clean although it's not the strongest product available. Its biggest disadvantage is that it may be noisy when it's brewing but the sound will fade as you become more familiar with it.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a compact, quiet pod coffee machine 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 its predecessors, like the Lavazza Tiny A Modo, on Amazon).

The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't have all the bells and whistles. It's fast to heat up and is easy to use. It's a great option for those who want to try out different flavours of capsules without having to shell out for a larger model.

The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean even considering its size. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed and the water tank is equipped with an easy-to-read indicator of MIN/MAX. It is also dishwasher-safe and allows you to keep it as clean as possible. It needs to be descaling every three to four months, and the steps for doing this are included in the manual.

This small machine is adored by its users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of five. The quiet operation and flexible choices it offers are particularly noted, while the fact that the pods can be recycled or composted is a big plus. Some users did have issues with the capacity of the used capsule however this was easily fixed.

Additionally, you'll find a power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide, a warranty sheet and a tester with nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted, and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you have a wide range of choices for your next cup!

5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini

Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini has been designed to be a perfect fit for modern kitchens, thanks to its compact size and clean lines. It's an espresso maker with the potential to change how you make coffee in your home.

Our test team was impressed by the speed and quality of the final product. The sleek machine is easy to clean, and the waste bin and capsule tray are large enough to prevent the accumulation of capsules that have been used. The A Modo Mio Mini comes with 16 Dolce Vita capsules, which can be used for an instant treat.

This machine is ideal for milk-based coffee lovers and aims to provide an authentic espresso with each sip. Its ingenious best automatic coffee machine brewing system scans the barcode of each capsule and automatically adjusts the settings to ensure that it is at the right level for your chosen drink. You'll need an additional machine to make lattes or cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is ideal for those who wake up early or have a busy household.

It does not offer the same number of customizable presets as the VertuoPlus, but this may not be an issue for those who like to experiment until they come up with their ideal recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be placed at the back or to one side of the machine depending on the size of your worktop, and the used capsule drawer is large enough to hold 13 pods. Other features include the possibility to hold your next drink while the machine heats up as well alerts when you've not refilled the tank with water or if the machine needs decaling.