Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
When it comes to quick, convenient brews that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod machine is impossible 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 uses different shaped capsules to the standard Espresso pod. You can select among five different options 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 uses Centrifusion technology to brew the most perfect cup of espresso or long coffee with the push of one button. Its barcode scanner is clever and can identify the type of Nespresso pod you've put in and automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve the best results in-cup. It does away with the need to manually adjust anything 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 rpm per minute, mixing ground coffee with water and creating a thick creamy, velvety crema. This process helps to evenly fill each capsule with water before extraction, which is important to ensure a delicious coffee. The machine also has a huge 40-ounce water tank so you can make many cups of coffee or espresso without having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine eliminates the capsule used and puts it inside a container for easy removal and recycling.
The machine isn't equipped with a milk frother built in, but it can be used with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It comes in 13 different colours and is small and tall, measuring less than 9 inches. This makes it simple to put on your kitchen counter. Its top can be opened automatically, making it easier to insert capsules even if you are unable to reach them.
This Nespresso coffee maker is currently available on Amazon for $119, which is a great price for a machine that's capable of making the finest espresso or long coffee. It comes with an initial kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) to allow you to experiment with 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's available in cream or black and can make five milk-based recipes by pressing a button, including cappuccino large and latte macchiato. It's not suitable for lattes and frothy drinks as a standalone milk frother. It has a small water tank, and only a limited selection of compatible capsules. This could make it more suitable for black or espresso coffee drinkers who are able to refill and empty the machine frequently.
The tiniest and most quiet 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 a traditional coffee maker. 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 slim design and stylish size make it a great addition to any interior.
We tried the coffee only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169, which comes with milk frothers if you like lattes and milky drinks. It's easy to keep clean, with clear plastic water tank, with MIN/MAX indicators and a removable capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It shuts down automatically after nine minutes of no activity and the power cable can be detached from the machine, making it easy to move.
As with other capsules It is recommended to clean your Jolie regularly. Clean and empty the coffee reservoir and filter, as well as the water container. Regular descaling can 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 an actual espresso machine at home. It's one of the few we've tested that makes rich creamy lattes, and produce the thin layer foam that gives a little more flavor to your drinks. It's also a great bargain for coffee makers at home, especially when you take into account that it is less expensive than professional machines.
This is a real espresso machine, unlike some semi-automatic models that we examined. It comes with an integrated steam wand as well as PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. It's got some more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still attainable for those who want to master how to pull a great shot and make the perfect latte at home.
The hopper is a huge airtight design that will preserve freshness and taste. It's also easy to remove to clean and refill this is a major advantage in our book. best value bean to cup coffee machine is also removable as well, which can be useful if you prefer to manually tamp your shots or are using double-wall filters.
Other notable features include a quick-heating thermoblock and adjustable grind settings, dose control, and drip tray that keeps the beans from your water. It is also easy to clean and use, however it's not as durable as other units. Its main drawback is loudness when it's brewing. However, this should be less noticeable as you get comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a compact quiet pod coffee maker that's ideal for small spaces. It's the smallest model 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 bells and whistles that are found in the other machines on this list However, it does everything that a simple pod machine should do. It's quick to heat up and is easy to use. It's an excellent choice for those who want to try different flavours without having to purchase an expensive model.
Despite its size, even at its size, Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed, and the water tank comes with a handy indicator for MIN/MAX. It is also dishwasher safe and allows you to keep it as clean as possible. The manual includes instructions on how you can wash it every three to four months.
The users love this small machine with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. The quiet operation and the various options it offers are particularly appreciated, and the fact that the capsules can be recycled or composted is highly appreciated. Some users were unhappy with the size of the used capsule, but this was easily fixed.
You'll also find a power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide, a warranty sheet and a tester that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roasted and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, meaning you'll have plenty of options to pick from for your next cuppa!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
With its clean lines and compact size The Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit perfectly into modern kitchens. It's a coffee maker that has the potential to revolutionise the way you prepare coffee in your home.
Our test team was awestruck with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The streamlined machine is easy to clean, and the waste bin and capsule tray are spacious 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 that can be used to make an instant treat without the need to brew it separately.
This machine is ideal for those who enjoy milk-based beverages and want to give a real espresso in every sip. Its ingenious automatic brewing system scans the barcode of 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 cappuccinos and lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is great for those who are up early or have a busy household.
It doesn't have the same amount of customisable presets that are available as the VertuoPlus, but this may not be an issue for coffee lovers who prefer to tinker until they find their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be placed in the rear or on one side of the machine depending on the available space. The drawer for capsules holds 13 large pods. Other features include the possibility to store your next cup while the machine heats up, as well as alerts when you haven't refilled the water tank or if the machine requires decaling.