Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is a great option for quick, convenient drinks. They are also easy to clean and simple to use. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from small models to larger models that come with frothier options for cappuccinos.
This lower-cost alternative from Nespresso's Vertuo line comes with different-shaped capsules that are different from 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 particular model makes use of Centrifusion technology to make the best possible cup of long or espresso at the touch of one button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to ensure the best results in the cup. This means you don't have to set anything manually and it reduces unnecessary waste by using only the precise amount of water, energy and coffee needed for each capsule-specific drink size.
The machine uses centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute. The machine 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 a crucial aspect in making a tasty cup of coffee. The machine also has a huge, 40-ounce water tank, so you can make many cups of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. The machine will automatically remove the capsule that has been used after brewing and put it in a container that can be easily removed and recycled.
The machine isn't equipped with a milk maker built in, but can be used in conjunction with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It's available in 13 different colors and has a slim, tall frame 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 easy 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 a machine that can make the most delicious 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 combinations.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
This stylish 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 by pressing the button, including cappuccino large and macchiato latte. It's not suitable for lattes or frothy drinks like a standalone milk frother. It has a small water tank, and an assortment of compatible capsules. This could make it more suitable for black or espresso coffee drinkers who are willing to refill and empty the machine frequently.
Jolie Jolie, the smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines is ideal for those who love quality Italian coffee without the hassle of a traditional machine. It's simple to use, requiring only one stop&go button that is backlit to select the desired amount of a coffee or hot chocolate, and can be used in silence. Its sleek design and compact size make it a perfect design for any interior.
We tried the coffee only version. There's also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes an milk frother if enjoy milky drinks and lattes. The machine is easy to clean using a an easy-to-clean water tank with indicators for MIN/MAX and a removable capsule tray that can be cleaned under running water. It will shut down automatically after nine minutes of inactivity and the power cable can be separated from the machine, making it easier to move.
As with other capsules, you should clean your Jolie regularly. Clean and empty 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 makes a great choice for espresso lovers who are looking for a real espresso machine at home. It's also among the few machines we've tested that can produce rich lattes that are creamy and smooth and also the thin layer of foam to add some extra flavor to your drinks. Pound for pound it's also a great value for home coffee makers go especially when you consider it's less expensive than professional machines.
This is a true espresso machine, which is different from some of the semi-automatic models we have looked at. It comes with an inbuilt steam wand, as well as PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. That means that it has some more of a learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic, or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still within reach for those looking to master how to pull an amazing shot and create espresso art at home.
click through the next page is a large airtight design that will preserve freshness and flavor. It is also easy to remove and refill, which we believe is a major bonus. The tamper can also be removed which is helpful if you want to manually tamp shots or use a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a quick heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings and dose control, and drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, but it's not as durable as other units. Its biggest drawback is its loudness during brewing. However, this will decrease as you become more comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee maker is small and quiet, which makes it perfect for small spaces. It's the smallest model within the Lavazza range and the cheapest capsule coffee maker. (You can still purchase the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini doesn't have the extra bells and whistles of the other machines on this list It can do everything a basic pod machine should do. It's quick to heat up, and it's easy to use. It's a good option for those who wish to taste different flavors without the need to purchase an expensive model.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean, regardless of its size. The drip tray, the capsule container, and water tank are equipped with a handy MIN/MAX indication. It is also dishwasher safe and dishwasher safe, allowing you to keep it as clean as is possible. It needs to be descaling every three to four months, and the guidelines for doing so are in the manual.
The users love this small machine and have given it a score of 4.4 out of five stars on Amazon. The machine's quiet operation, the range of options it provides, and the possibility that the pods can be recycled or composted are all highly applauded. Some users had issues with the capacity of the used capsule container However, this issue was easily fixed.
Inside the box there's an electrical plug and power cable, an instruction manual, quick-guide, warranty sheet, and a tester box containing 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 pick from for your next cup of tea!
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 a coffee maker that has the potential to change the way you make coffee in your home.
Our team of testers was impressed with the speed and quality of the final product. The streamlined machine is easy to clean, while the capsule bin and waste tray are big enough to avoid a 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 coffee drinkers who prefer milk and is designed to deliver the authentic espresso in every sip. The machine's automatic brewing system is so precise that it scans each capsule barcode and adjusts the settings to the right level for the beverage you select. However, you'll need to add an additional milk machine in case you plan to make lattes and cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet and easy to use which is a great plus point for people who are early risers or have an active family.
It doesn't have as many customisable presets as the VertuoPlus however this might not be an issue for coffee lovers who like to tweak until they discover 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 the space available for your worktop and the used capsule drawer can accommodate 13 large pods. Other features include the capability to queue up your next cup while the machine is heating up, and alerts when you haven't filled it up with water or if it requires descaling.