Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is a great option for quick, convenient coffee drinks. They are also easy to clean and simple to use. These sleek machines are available in a range of sizes and shapes, from minis to large models with frothier for cappuccinos.
The cheapest option in Nespresso's Vertuo range comes with different shaped capsules in addition to the standard Espresso pod. You can select 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 top-of-the-line options. This particular model uses Centrifusion technology to make the best cup of long or espresso at the touch of the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to get the best results in the cup. This means you don't need to set anything manually and it reduces waste by only using the precise 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 revolutions per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, producing an extremely smooth and thick crema. The process also helps to evenly saturate the capsule with water prior to extraction, which is an important element in obtaining a delicious cup of 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. The machine will automatically remove the used capsule after brewing and put it in a container, which can be easily removed and recycled.
The machine doesn't have an inbuilt milk frother but it can be used combination with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. It's available in 13 colors and has a slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide which allows it to be easily placed on your kitchen countertop. The top of the cabinet opens automatically, making it easier to insert capsules if you have limited dexterity.
The Nespresso coffee machine is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great price for a machine that can create the finest cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6), and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This lets you to play around with different blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee maker that's simple to use and won't cost a fortune. It comes in either cream or black and it can make five milk-based drinks with a flick of a button. This includes macchiato cappuccino and a large. However, it's not suitable for lattes or foamy drinks as a stand-alone milk frother. It has a small water tank, and only a limited selection of compatible capsules. This makes it more suitable for black or espresso coffee drinkers who are able to refill and empty the machine regularly.
The smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is ideal for those who wish to enjoy a great tasting, high-quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle and expense of traditional coffee makers. It's easy to use, using just one stop&go button that is backlit for selecting the desired quantity of coffee or hot chocolate, and can be operated in a quiet manner. Its small size and stylish design make it the perfect addition to any space.
We tested the coffee-only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes an milk frother if like milky drinks and lattes. It's easy to keep clean with clear plastic water tank that has MIN/MAX indicators and a removable capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It shuts down automatically after nine minutes of inactivity and the power cable can be detached from the machine, making it simple to move.
As with many capsule machines it's important to clean your Jolie regularly by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. De-scaling it regularly will keep it performing optimally.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a ideal choice for those who want an actual espresso machine at home. It's among the few we tested that can make rich lattes that are creamy and smooth, and also create the thin layer of foam that adds a little additional flavor to your drink. It's also a great deal for home coffee makers, especially when you consider that it is less expensive than professional machines.
Unlike read this post here of the other semi-automatic models we looked at, this is a true espresso maker with an integrated grinder as well as a PID temperature control and a steam wand to make milk-based beverages. It has a bit of a steep learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. But, it's still within reach for those who wish to learn how to make a great espresso and the art of latte.
The hopper has a large, airtight design that preserves freshness and flavor. It is also simple to take out and refill, which we believe is a major bonus. The tamper is also removable also it can be useful when you prefer to manually tap your shots or using a double-wall filter.
Other important features include a rapid-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and drip tray that keeps the beans away from your water. It's also easy to use and clean however it's not the strongest unit out there. Its greatest disadvantage is that it can be a bit loud when it's being made however the sound should decrease as you become familiar with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a small, quiet pod coffee machine that is ideal for small spaces. It's the smallest model within the Lavazza range and is also the cheapest capsule coffee maker. (You can still purchase the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't have all the bells and whistles. It heats quickly and is easy to use. It's a great option for those who want to try out different flavours of capsules without the need to shell out for a more expensive model.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean, despite its size. The drip tray, used container for capsules, and the water tank come with an easy-to-read MIN/MAX indicator. It is also dishwasher safe and dishwasher safe, allowing you to keep it as clean as you can. The manual provides instructions on how to decal it every three to four month.
This little machine is loved by its users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of five. The machine's quiet operation, the variety of choices it offers, and the fact that pods can either be composted or recycled are all highly applauded. There were some users who had issues with the capacity of the used capsule container however this was easily resolved.
Inside the box there's the power cable and plug, an instruction manual, a quick-guide warranty sheet and a tester box with nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted, and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. The remaining two are organic, meaning that you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your next cuppa!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini was designed to fit in modern kitchens thanks to its sleek design and compact size. It is able to change the way you make coffee at home, and is available at an affordable price.
Our team of testers was impressed with the speed and quality of the final product. The streamlined machine is easy to clean, while the waste bin and capsule tray are spacious enough to prevent the build-up of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini comes with 16 Dolce Vita capsules, which can be used for an instant treat.
This machine is perfect for those who love milk-based coffees and want to provide a true espresso with every sip. The clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule, and then automatically adjusts the settings to ensure that it is at the right quality for the drink you choose. You'll require an additional machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet in operation, which is a plus point for early risers and those with an active family.
The VertuoPlus offers more presets, however, it isn't as customizable. This isn't an issue for coffee lovers who like to play around until they discover the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be set in the back or on one side of the machine, based on your worktop space and the drawer for capsules is large enough to hold 13 pods. Other features include the ability to queue up your next cup while the machine is heating as well as alerts if you haven't filled it up with water or if it's in need of descaling.