Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
If you're looking for quick easy, convenient brews that are easy to clean up, a pod machine is hard to beat. These sleek machines are available in a range of sizes and shapes, ranging from minis to large models with frothier cappuccinos.
This lower-cost option from Nespresso's Vertuo line features different shaped capsules as opposed to the standard Espresso pod and lets you select from five different sizes for brewing: Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug and Extra Large Alto.
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
VertuoPlus capsule coffee machines are among Nespresso's top-of-the-line options. This particular model utilizes Centrifusion technology to brew the best possible cup of long or espresso by pressing one button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to ensure the best results in the cup. It eliminates the necessity to manually adjust everything and only uses the precise amount of water, coffee and energy required for each capsule's unique drink size.
The machine uses centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 rotations per minute. The machine blends ground coffee with water, creating an extremely smooth and thick crema. This helps to evenly coat each capsule with water prior to extraction, which is essential for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine comes with a 40-ounce water tank, which means you can make a large amount of coffee or espresso before having to empty it. After brewing, the machine automatically eliminates the capsule used and then puts it inside a container that can be easily removed and recycling.
The machine doesn't have an integrated milk frother, but it can be used in conjunction with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes. It's available in 13 colors and has a slim, tall frame less than 9 inches in width, which makes it easy to fit on the kitchen counter. The top of the holder opens automatically to make it easier for people who aren't able to insert capsules.
The Nespresso coffee maker is currently available 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 different combinations.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
This sleek capsule coffee maker is simple to use and won't cost you an arm and a leg. It comes in cream or black and can prepare five milk-based dishes with the touch of an button such as cappuccino large and latte macchiato. It's not suitable for lattes or frothy drinks such as a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively tiny water tank and limited selection of compatible capsules, which means it may be better suited to espresso or black-coffee drinkers who aren't afraid of refilling and emptying the machine.
Jolie The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines is perfect for those who enjoy quality Italian coffee without the hassle of a traditional machine. It is simple to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go for selecting the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its small size and stylish design make it the perfect complement to any room.
We tried the coffee-only version of the machine. There is also a Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that includes milk-frother, if you're a fan of milk-based drinks. It's easy to clean, with an uncluttered plastic water tank with indicators for MIN/MAX and a removable capsule drawer that is washable under running water. It will shut 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 regularly by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter, as well as the water tank. De-scaling it regularly will ensure it is operating at its peak.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top pick for espresso lovers looking for an at-home real espresso machine. It's also among the few machines that we tested that could make rich, creamy lattes and the fine layer of foam to add some extra flavor to your drinks. Pound for pound it's also a great 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 reviewed it's a real espresso maker that comes with a built-in grinder as well as a PID temperature control and a steam wand that can be used for milk-based drinks. It has a bit more of an arduous learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. But, try this out 's still accessible to those who wish to master the art of making an excellent espresso and the art of latte.
The most prominent feature of this model is the bean hopper that is large, which has been designed with an airtight seal to protect freshness and taste. It is also easy to remove and refill, which we consider an important benefit. The tamper is also removable as well it can be useful in the event that you want to manually tamp your shots or are using a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a fast-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, though it's not the strongest device available. Its greatest drawback is that it can be a bit loud when it's being made but the sound will decrease as you become familiar with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee maker is compact and quiet, making it ideal for small spaces. It is the smallest machine within the Lavazza range, and also the most affordable 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 in this list However, it does everything a basic pod machine should be able to do. It's quick to heat up and is easy to use. It's a great option for those looking to experiment with different flavors without having to purchase an expensive 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 a handy indicator for MIN/MAX. It's also dishwasher safe, so you can keep it as hygienic as you can. The manual contains instructions on how you can wash it every three to four month.
This little machine is loved by its users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The quiet operation and the flexible choices it offers are particularly appreciated, and the fact that the pods can be composted or recycled is appreciated. Some users were unhappy with the size of the used capsule container, but this was easily rectified.
Inside the box, you'll find a power cable and plug along with an instruction manual, quick-guide, warranty sheet, and a tester box containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roast and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you'll have a variety of options to choose from 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 into modern kitchens. It is able to change the way you prepare coffee at home, and is available at an affordable price.
Our team was awestruck by the speed at that it produced coffee as well as the quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin and capsule bin are large enough to prevent a buildup 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 coffee drinkers who prefer milk and aims to provide the authentic espresso in every sip. The clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule and automatically adjusts settings to the best quality for the drink you choose. You will need an additional machine for making cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet in operation and is a good advantage for early risers and those with a busy family life.
The VertuoPlus has more presets, however it isn't as customizable. This may not be an issue for those that prefer to play around until they discover the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be placed at the back or to one side of the machine, based on the size of your worktop, and the capsule drawer is large enough to hold 13 pods. Other features include the possibility to hold your next cup while the machine heats up and also alerts if you haven't refilled the tank with water, or if the machine needs decaling.