Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
If you're looking for quick easy, convenient brews that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod maker is difficult to beat. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes from tiny models that be tucked away on your kitchen counter to larger models that feature an ice cream maker for cappuccinos.
This lower-cost alternative from Nespresso's Vertuo line features 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 model utilizes Centrifusion to make the perfect cup of espresso or long-lasting cup of coffee at the push of the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve optimal results in the cup. It eliminates the need to manually adjust anything and only uses the exact amount of coffee, water and energy needed for each capsule's unique drink size.
The machine makes use of centrifugal force to spin capsules at 7,000 rpm per minute, blending ground coffee with water, creating a thick creamy, velvety crema. This helps to evenly saturate each capsule with water prior to extraction, which is crucial to ensure a delicious coffee. The machine also has a large, 40-ounce water tank, which means you can make a lot of cups of coffee or espresso without having to empty it. The machine will automatically eject the used capsule after brewing, and then place it in a container that can be easily removed and reused.
The machine doesn't come with a milk maker built in, but it can be used with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It comes in 13 colors and is slim and tall, weighing less than 9 inches. This makes it easy to put on the counter of your kitchen. The top of the cabinet opens automatically, making it easier to insert capsules when you're not able to do it manually.
The Nespresso coffee maker is available on Amazon for $119. It's a bargain for a machine that can create the finest cup of long coffee or espresso. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This lets you to experiment with various combinations.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee maker that's simple to use and won't break the bank. It's available in cream or black, and can make five milk-based recipes with the touch of a button including cappuccino large as well as macchiato latte. It's not ideal for lattes or frothy drinks such as a standalone milk frother. It also has a small water tank, and a limited number of compatible capsules. So it could be more for black or espresso drinkers who don't mind regularly refilling and emptying the machine.
The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is perfect for those who wish to enjoy great-tasting, quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle and expense of traditional coffee makers. It's simple to use, with just one backlit stop&go button for selecting the desired quantity of a coffee or hot chocolate, and can be used in silence. Its compact design and elegant dimensions make it an ideal accessory to any room.
We tested the coffee-only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 that comes with an milk frother if enjoy milky drinks and lattes. It's easy to keep clean, with a clear plastic water tank, with indicators for MIN/MAX as well as an open capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It shuts off automatically after 9 minutes and the power cable is able to 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. A regular descaling process will allow it to keep its performance at its peak for a long period of time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a great choice for espresso lovers who want an actual espresso machine at home. It's among the few we've tested that can make rich lattes that are creamy and smooth, and also produce the thin layer of foam that gives a little additional flavor to your drink. Pound for pound, it's an excellent value for coffee makers for home use especially when you consider it's less expensive than professional machines.
Contrary to other semi-automatic models we looked at, this is a true espresso maker that comes with an integrated grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand for milk-based drinks. That means that it has a bit more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still well within reach for those who want to learn to pull an amazing shot and create latte art at home.
The most notable feature of this model is the bean hopper that is large, which has been designed with an airtight seal to preserve the freshness and flavor. It's also easy to remove for cleaning and refilling, a major plus in our book. The tamper is also removable too and can be helpful if you prefer to manually tamp your shots or are using a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a rapid heating thermoblock with adjustable grind settings, dose control, and a drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. best affordable coffee machine 's also simple to use and clean, though it's not the most durable device available. The biggest issue is its loudness when brewing. However, this is likely to diminish as you get more comfortable 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 most compact of the machines from the brand and is the most affordable capsule coffee maker (although you may still find some of its predecessors, including the Lavazza Tiny Mini, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't have all the bells and whistles. It heats up quickly and is simple to use. It's also a good choice for those looking to experiment with different flavors of capsules without shelling out for a larger model.
Despite its size despite its size, despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray, used capsule container, and water tank come with an easy MIN/MAX indicator. It is also dishwasher-safe and dishwasher safe, allowing you to keep it as clean as is possible. The manual includes instructions on how to descal it every three to four month.
Users love this little machine, giving it a rating of 4.4 out of five stars on Amazon. The quiet operation and various options it offers are particularly appreciated, and the fact that the pods can be recycled or composted is a big plus. Some users were unhappy with the size of the used capsule, but this was easily fixed.
You'll also find the power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide, warranty information and a tester that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roasted, two are lungo, and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, meaning that you'll have a wide selection to pick from for your next cuppa!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
With its clean lines and compact size with its sleek lines and compact size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit into modern kitchens. It is a coffee maker that has the potential to revolutionize how you make coffee at home.
Our test team was awestruck with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The streamlined machine is easy to wipe down, while the waste bin and capsule tray are large enough to prevent the accumulation 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 those who enjoy milk-based coffees and want to give a real espresso in every sip. The machine's automatic brewing mechanism is so clever that it scans every capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the proper level for the beverage you select. You'll require a separate machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet and easy to use which is a great plus point for people who wake up early and have an active family.
It does not offer as many customisable presets as the VertuoPlus however this might not be a problem for coffee purists who like to experiment until they find their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be placed either in the rear or on the other side of the machine, depending on the available space. The used capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the option to store your next cup while the machine heats up and also alerts if you haven't filled the tank with water, or if the machine needs decaling.