Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is a great choice for quick, easy coffee drinks. They are also easy to clean and simple to use. These sleek machines are available in a range of sizes and shapes, ranging from minis to large models with frothier for cappuccinos.
This lower-cost alternative from Nespresso's Vertuo line uses different shaped capsules than the standard Espresso pod and lets you choose between five brewing sizes: 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 brew an ideal cup of espresso or a long cup of coffee with the click of the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve optimal results in the cup. This means you don't need to set everything manually and eliminates waste by only using the precise amount of water, energy and coffee required for each capsule-specific drink size.
The machine uses centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, creating an extremely smooth and thick crema. This process also helps evenly saturate the capsule with water prior to extraction which is a crucial factor in getting a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine also has a large, 40-ounce water tank, meaning you can make many cups of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. The machine will automatically remove the capsule that is used up after brewing and put it in a container, which can be easily removed and recycled.
The machine doesn't have an integrated milk frother, however it can be used combination with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother to make cappuccinos and lattes. It comes in 13 different colors and is slim and tall, with a height of less than 9 inches. This makes it easy to place on the counter of your kitchen. Its top can be opened automatically, making it easy to insert capsules when you have limited dexterity.
This Nespresso coffee maker is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great price for a machine that can produce the best 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 stylish capsule coffee machine that is easy 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 the button including cappuccino large as well as macchiato latte. However, it's not as suitable for lattes or foamy drinks as a stand-alone milk frother. It also has a small water tank, and a limited choice of compatible capsules, so it might be more suitable for black or espresso drinkers who aren't afraid of refilling and emptying the machine.
Jolie Jolie, the smallest and most quiet of Lavazza’s A Modo Mio machines is perfect for those who enjoy top-quality Italian coffee without the hassle of traditional machines. It is simple to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go for selecting the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its slim design and stylish size make it a perfect addition to any interior.
We tested the coffee-only version of the machine. There is also an Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that includes a milk-frother if you're a lover of milk-based drinks. The machine is easy to clean thanks to a an easy-to-clean water tank with indicators for MIN/MAX and a removable capsule tray that is washable with running water. It is shut down automatically after nine minutes, and the power cable is able to be removed from the machine.
As with other capsule machines It is recommended to clean your Jolie regularly. Empty and clean the coffee reservoir and filter and also the water container. Periodic descaling will help it keep its performance at its peak for a long time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top pick for espresso lovers who want an at-home, real espresso machine. It's also one of the few machines we test that produces rich, creamy lattes and the fine layer of foam to add a little something extra to your drinks. Pound for pound, it's a great value for home coffee makers go, especially when you consider that it's cheaper than professional machines.
In contrast to the other semi-automatic models that we reviewed it's a real espresso maker that has an integrated grinder and a temperature control with PID and a steam wand for milk-based drinks. It's got a bit more of an education curve than the Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic, or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still well within reach for those looking to master the art of pulling a perfect shot and create the perfect latte at home.
This model's most notable feature is the large bean hopper that has been constructed with an airtight seal that will preserve freshness and flavor. It is also simple to remove and refill, which we believe is an important benefit. The tamper can be removed too and can be helpful if you prefer to manually tap your shots or using double-wall filters.
Other important features include a rapid-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and a drip tray which keeps the beans away from your water. It's also easy to clean and use, but it's not as durable as some other models. Its main drawback is loudness during 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 machine that's ideal for small spaces. It's the smaller of the brands machines and is the cheapest capsule coffee maker (although you can still find some of its predecessors, including the Lavazza Tiny, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't come with all the bells and whistles. watch this video to heat and easy to use. It's also a great choice for those who want to experiment with different flavors of capsules without shelling out for a larger model.
Despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed and the water tank has a handy indicator for MIN/MAX. It's dishwasher-safe, which means you can keep it as clean as you can. The manual includes instructions on how to descal it every three to four month.
This tiny machine is loved by users, who have given it a rating 4.4 stars out of five. The machine's quiet operation, the range of options it offers and the possibility that the pods can be recycled or composted are all highly applauded. Some users had issues with the size of the capsule, but this was easily rectified.
There's also a power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide, an information sheet on warranty and a tester containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted varieties, while two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. The remaining two are organic, which means 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 is designed to fit in modern kitchens thanks to its sleek design and compact size. It is able to revolutionise the way you prepare coffee at home, and is available at an affordable cost.
Our team of testers was impressed with the speed and quality of the final product. The sleek 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 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules that can be used to make an instant treat without the need to make it separately.
This machine is ideal for those who like milk-based coffees and wants to provide a true espresso with every sip. Its clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule and automatically adjusts the settings to ensure that it is at the right quality for the drink you choose. However, you'll require a separate milk machine if you plan to make cappuccinos and lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is ideal for those who get up early or have a hectic family.
It does not offer the same amount of customisable presets that are available as the VertuoPlus, but this may not be an issue for coffee lovers who like to experiment until they find their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be positioned either in the back or on one side of the machine based on your worktop space and the used capsule drawer can accommodate 13 large pods. Other features include the option to store your next drink while the machine heats up as well alerts when you've not refilled the water tank or if the machine requires decaling.