Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
When it comes to quick, convenient brews that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod maker is hard to beat. These sleek machines are available in a range of sizes and shapes, ranging from small models to larger models that come with frothier cappuccinos.
This low-cost option from Nespresso's Vertuo range features different-shaped capsules to the standard Espresso pod. You can pick among five different brewing options: Espresso, Double Espresso Gran Lungo Mug, Extra Large Alto.
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
The VertuoPlus line of capsule coffee machines is one of Nespresso's top-of-the-line options. This model uses Centrifusion to make an ideal cup of espresso or long coffee at the touch of the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to get the best results in the cup. It does away with the need to manually adjust anything and only uses the exact amount of water, coffee and energy required for each capsule's specific drink size.
The machine uses centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, creating a rich and velvety crema. The process also helps to evenly coat the capsule with water prior to extraction, which is an important aspect in making a tasty cup of coffee. The machine is equipped with a 40-ounce tank of water, making it possible to make plenty of coffee or espresso before having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine removes the capsule that has been used and then puts it in an internal container for easy removal and recycling.
This machine does not come with a milk maker built in, but can be used with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It's available in 13 different colors and has a slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide, which makes it easy to place on your kitchen countertop. The top of the cabinet opens automatically, making it much easier to insert capsules if you have limited dexterity.
The Nespresso coffee maker is currently on sale on Amazon for $119 which is a fantastic price for such an advanced machine that's capable of making the best cup of long or espresso. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This allows you to experiment with various blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A stylish capsule coffee machine that is easy to use and won't break the bank. It comes in black or cream and can prepare five milk-based dishes by pressing an button, including cappuccino large and latte macchiato. It's not suited to lattes or frothy drinks like a standalone milk frother. It has a tiny water tank, and only a limited selection of compatible capsules. This could make it more suitable for espresso or black coffee drinkers who want 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 a great tasting, high-quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle or cost of traditional coffee makers. It's easy to use with only one backlit stop&go that allows you to select the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its sleek design and compact size make it a great addition to any interior.
We tested the coffee-only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes milk frothers if you like lattes and milky drinks. The machine is easy to clean using a an easy-to-clean water tank that has indicator lights for MIN/MAX as well as a removable capsule tray that can be washed with running water. It shuts off automatically after nine minutes, and the power cable can be removed from the machine.
Like other capsule machines, it's essential 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 keep its performance at its peak for a long 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 among the few we tested that can make rich, creamy lattes and even produce the thin layer foam that adds an extra something to your drinks. Pound for pound it's also a great value for coffee makers for the home especially when you consider that it's less expensive than professional machines.
It's a true espresso machine, unlike some of the semi-automatic models we looked at. It comes with an inbuilt steam wand, as well as PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. This means it has some more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still within reach for those looking to learn to pull a great shot and make latte art at home.
The hopper is a large airtight design that will preserve freshness and flavor. It is also easy to take out and refill, which we consider an advantage. The tamper is also removable as well, which can be useful if you prefer to manually tap your shots or using a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a quick heating thermoblock with adjustable grind settings, dose control, as well as drip tray that keeps beans out of your water. It's also simple to use and clean however it's not the longest-lasting unit out there. The biggest disadvantage is that it can be a bit loud when it's being made, but the sound should decrease as you become familiar with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee machine is small and quiet, making it perfect for small spaces. It's the smallest model within the Lavazza range, and also the most affordable 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's quick to heat up and is easy to use. It's a great option for those looking to experiment with different flavors of capsules without shelling out for a bigger model.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean, even considering its size. The drip tray and used capsule container can be taken out, and the water tank comes with an easy-to-read indicator of MIN/MAX. It is also dishwasher safe, so that you can keep it as clean as you can. It is recommended to descal every three to four months, and the instructions for doing so are in the manual.
This tiny machine is loved by its users, who have given it a rating 4.4 stars out of five. The machine's quiet operation, the wide range of options it provides and the fact that pods can either be recycled or composted are all highly applauded. There were some users who had issues with the capacity of the used capsule, but this was easily resolved.
Inside the box there's the power cable and plug as well as an instruction manual, quick-guide, warranty sheet and a tester box that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roasts, two are lungo, and two are decaffeinated. Two of the varieties are organic, so you'll have a variety of options for your next cup!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
With its clean lines and small size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit in modern kitchens. It is an espresso maker with the potential to revolutionize the way you make coffee at home.
Our team was awestruck by the speed with that it produced coffee as well as the quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin as well as capsule bins are big enough to prevent the buildup of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with a pack of 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules that can be used for an instant treat without the need to brew it separately.
This machine is perfect for those who love milk-based coffees and wants to deliver an authentic espresso in every sip. The clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode of each capsule, and then automatically adjusts the settings to the ideal level for the drink you're drin
