Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
A pod machine is the ideal option for quick, efficient brews. They are also easy to clean and easy to use. These machines are sleek and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes from small models that fit on your worktop to larger models that include the ability to make a frothier drink for cappuccinos.
This affordable option from Nespresso’s Vertuo range uses different shaped capsules to the standard Espresso pod. You can select among five different brewing options: Espresso, Double Espresso Gran Lungo Mug, Extra Large Alto.
1. Nespresso VertuoPlus
The VertuoPlus line of capsule coffee makers is among Nespresso's most expensive options. This model uses Centrifusion to create the perfect cup of espresso or a long-lasting cup of coffee at the push of one button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to ensure the best results in the cup. This means you don't have to set anything manually and eliminates waste by only using the precise amount of water, energy and coffee required for each size of capsule-specific drink.
The machine utilizes centrifugal force to spin the capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute, mixing ground coffee with water and creating a thick velvety crema. This helps evenly saturate each capsule with water prior extraction, which is important for a flavorful coffee. The machine also has a huge 40-ounce water tank which means you can make a lot of cups of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine eliminates the capsule used and puts it inside an internal container that can be easily removed and recycling.
This machine does not come with a built-in milk frother in, but it can be used with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It comes in 13 colours and is slim and tall, weighing less than 9 inches. This makes it simple to place on the counter in your kitchen. The top of the capsule holder opens automatically to make it easier for those who aren't able to insert capsules.
The Nespresso coffee maker is available on Amazon for $119. It's a great price for a machine which 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 experiment with different combinations.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee maker that is easy to use and won't break the bank. It comes in either cream or black and can create five milk-based drinks at the click of a button. These include macchiato cappuccino and a large. It's not suitable for lattes and frothy drinks as a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively small water tank, and a limited choice of compatible capsules, so it could be more for black or espresso drinkers who don't mind refilling and emptying the machine.
The smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is perfect for those who wish to enjoy a great tasting, high-quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle or expense of traditional coffee makers. It is simple to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go for selecting the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its compact size and elegant design make it the perfect addition to any room.
We tried the coffee-only model of the machine. There is also an Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that has milk-frother, if you're a fan of lattes and milk-based drinks. The machine is easy to clean with a clear water tank that has 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. Additionally, the power cable can be removed from the machine, making it easy to move.
Like many capsule machines, it's important to clean your Jolie on a regular basis by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. A regular descaling process will allow it to keep its performance at its peak for a long period of time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top choice for those looking for an at-home, real espresso machine. It's among the few we tested that can make rich creamy lattes, and produce the thin layer of foam that adds a little extra something to your drinks. It's also a great deal for home coffee makers especially when you consider that it's less expensive than professional machines.
This is a true espresso machine, unlike some semi-automatic models that we examined. It comes with an inbuilt steam wand, as well as PID temperature control 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 who want to master the art of pulling a great shot and make espresso art at home.
The hopper has a large airtight design that keeps freshness and taste. It is also simple to remove and refill, which we believe is an important benefit. The tamper is also removable as well it can be useful in the event that you want to manually tap your shots or using a double-wall filter.
Other important features include a rapid-heating thermoblock with adjustable grind settings, dose control and a drip tray which keeps the beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, but it's not as durable as some other units. Its biggest disadvantage is that it may be loud when brewing however the sound should diminish as you get familiar with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a small, quiet pod coffee machine which is perfect for small spaces. It's the smallest model within the Lavazza range, and also the most affordable capsule coffee maker. (You can still find the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't come with all the bells and whistles. It is quick to heat up and simple to use. It's an excellent choice for those looking to experiment with different flavors without having to purchase a larger model.
The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean despite its size. The drip tray, the container for capsules, and the water tank have a handy MIN/MAX indication. It is dishwasher safe and allows you to keep it as clean as possible. The manual contains instructions on how you can wash it every three to four month.
Users love this little machine, giving it a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. The machine's quiet operation, the range of options it offers as well as the fact that pods can either be recycled or composted are all highly applauded. Some users did have issues with the capacity of the capsule, but this was easily resolved.
You'll also find an electrical cord and plug, an instructional manual, a quick-guide an information sheet on warranty and a tester with nine Lavazza pods. which coffee machine is best of the nine pods are roasted and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of the varieties are organic, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from for your next cup!
5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini
With its clean lines and compact size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit perfectly into modern kitchens. It has the potential to change the way you prepare coffee at home, and is available at an affordable price.
Our test team was awestruck by the speed and quality of the final product. The machine is easy-to-clean, and the waste bin and capsule bins are big enough to prevent the buildup of capsules that have been used. 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 make it separately.
This machine is perfect for those who like milk-based coffees and want to deliver an authentic espresso with every sip. Its ingenious automatic brewing system scans the barcode of each capsule and adjusts the settings to the ideal level for your chosen drink. However, you will need to add an additional milk machine in case you want to make cappuccinos and lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is great for those who wake up early or have a busy family.
The VertuoPlus offers more presets, however, it isn't as customizable. This isn't an issue for those that prefer to experiment until they find the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be placed at the back or to one side of the machine depending on your worktop space and the used capsule drawer has room for 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to store your next cup while the machine is heating as well as alerts if you haven't filled it up with water or if it needs descaling.