Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is the ideal option for quick, efficient 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 options for cappuccinos.
This lower-cost option from Nespresso's Vertuo line comes with different-shaped capsules as opposed to the standard Espresso pod and lets you 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 machines is one of Nespresso's top-of-the-line options. This particular model uses Centrifusion technology to brew the best cup of espresso or long coffee with the push of one button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to get the best results in the cup. It eliminates the necessity to manually adjust everything and only uses the exact amount of water, coffee and energy needed for each capsule's unique drink size.
The machine makes use of centrifugal force to spin capsules at 7,000 revs per minute, blending ground coffee with water, creating a thick velvety crema. This helps to evenly saturate each capsule with water before extraction, which is crucial for a flavorful coffee. The machine also has a large 40-ounce water tank so you can make many cups of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. After brewing, the machine automatically eliminates the capsule used and puts it in an internal container for easy removal and recycling.
This machine doesn't come with an integrated milk frother, however it can be used conjunction with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother to make lattes and cappuccinos. It's available in 13 different colors and has a slim, tall frame less than 9 inches in width, which makes it easy to place on your kitchen countertop. The top of the holder opens automatically, making it easier for people who aren't able to insert capsules.
This Nespresso coffee maker is currently on sale on Amazon for $119 which is a fantastic price for an advanced machine that's capable of producing the finest long or espresso. It comes with the starter kit, which includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) which allows you to test the blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee machine that's simple to use and won't break the bank. It comes in either cream or black and can make five milk-based drinks with just a touch of a switch. These include macchiato cappuccino and a large. It's not suited to lattes or frothy drinks like a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively small water tank and a limited selection of compatible capsules. So it could be more for black or espresso drinkers who don't mind refilling and emptying the machine.
Jolie Jolie, the smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines is perfect for those who enjoy quality Italian coffee without the hassle of traditional machines. It's simple to use, using just one backlit stop&go button for selecting the desired quantity of a coffee or hot chocolate, and can be operated in a quiet manner. Its small size and stylish design make it the perfect complement to any interior.
We tried the coffee-only model of the machine - there is also an Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that comes with a milk-frother if you're a fan of lattes and milk-based drinks. The machine is easy to clean thanks to a an easy-to-clean water tank that has indicators for MIN/MAX and a removable capsule tray that can be washed under running water. It is shut down automatically after nine minutes and the power cable can easily be removed from the machine.
As with other capsules It is recommended to clean your Jolie regularly. Clean and empty the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water container. De-scaling it regularly will ensure it is operating at its peak.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express makes a ideal choice for those who want a real espresso machine at home. It's among the few we've tested that can make rich, creamy lattes and even produce the thin layer of foam that adds an additional flavor to your drinks. It's also a great value for home coffee makers, especially when you consider that it is less expensive than professional machines.
This is a true espresso machine, in contrast to some semi-automatic models we have looked at. It comes with an integrated steam wand as well as PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. It has a bit more of a steep learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. But, it's still accessible to those who wish to master the perfect espresso and latte art.
The hopper is a huge airtight design that will preserve freshness and taste. It's also easy to remove for cleaning and refilling, a major plus in our book. The tamper is also removable also, which can be useful if you prefer to manually tamp your shots or are using double-wall filters.
Other notable features include a fast-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control, and a drip tray which keeps the beans away from your water. It's also simple to clean and operate, but it's not as durable as other units. Its biggest drawback is its loudness during brewing. However, this is likely to decrease as you become 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 that is ideal for small spaces. It's the most compact of the machines from the brand, and is Lavazza's cheapest capsule coffee maker (although you may still find some of its predecessor, the Lavazza Tiny Mini, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini doesn't have the extra bells and whistles of the other machines in this list It does everything a basic pod machine should do. It heats quickly and is easy to use. It's a great option for those looking to try out different flavours of capsules without shelling out for a bigger model.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean even considering its size. The drip tray, container for capsules, and the water tank are equipped with an easy MIN/MAX indicator. It's dishwasher-safe, which means you can keep it as hygienic as you can. The manual contains instructions on how to descal it every three to four months.
This tiny machine is loved by users who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The machine's quiet operation, the variety of options it offers and the possibility that the pods can be recycled or composted are all highly praised. Some users had issues with the size of the capsule container but this was easily fixed.
In the box there's a power cable and plug along with an instruction manual, quick-guide warranty sheet, and a tester box containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of them are roasted varieties, while 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 revolutionise the way you prepare coffee at home, and is available at a very affordable price.
Our test team was awestruck with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The sleek machine is easy to clean, and the waste bin and capsule tray are big enough to prevent the accumulation of capsules that have been used. The A Modo Mio Mini comes with 16 Dolce Vita capsules, which can be used as an instant treat.
This machine is perfect for those who love milk-based coffee and aims to give you an authentic espresso with every sip. The machine's automated brewing system is so clever that it scans each capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the appropriate level for the drink you choose. However, www.coffeee.uk will require an additional milk machine if you plan to make lattes and cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is ideal for those who wake up early or have a hectic family.
It doesn't have the same amount of customisable presets that are available as the VertuoPlus, but this may not be a problem for coffee purists who like to tweak until they discover their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be set towards the back or to one side of the machine based on the size of your worktop, and the capsule drawer has room for 13 large 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 with water or if it requires descaling.