Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?
When it comes to fast, convenient brews that are easy to clean up, a pod machine is impossible to beat. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from small models to larger models that come with frothier cappuccinos.
This less expensive alternative from Nespresso's Vertuo line uses different shaped capsules than 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 one of Nespresso’s higher-end options. This particular model makes use of Centrifusion technology to brew the best cup of espresso or long coffee at the touch of the button. which coffee machine is best recognizes the type of Nespresso pod you've put in and automatically adjusts extraction settings to ensure the best results in-cup. It removes the need to adjust anything manually and only uses the precise amount of water, coffee and energy required to make each drink's exact size.
The machine utilizes centrifugal force to spin capsules at 7,000 turns per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, resulting in a rich and velvety crema. This helps evenly fill each capsule with water before extraction, which is essential to ensure a delicious coffee. The machine also has a huge, 40-ounce water tank, meaning you can make many cups of coffee or espresso before having to empty it. After brewing, the machine automatically removes the capsule that has been used and places it inside a container for easy removal and recycling.
The machine doesn't have an integrated milk frother, but it can be used conjunction with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother to make cappuccinos and lattes. It comes in 13 colors and is small and tall, measuring less than 9 inches. This makes it easy to place on the counter of your kitchen. Its top can be opened automatically, making it easy to insert capsules if you are unable to reach them.
This Nespresso coffee machine is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a bargain for a machine that will create the finest cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with the starter kit, which includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) which allows you to experiment with the blends.
2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie
A sleek capsule coffee machine that is easy to use and won't cost you a fortune. It comes in either black or cream, and can make five milk-based drinks at the click of a button. These include macchiato cappuccino as well as large. It's not suitable for lattes or drinks that are frothy like a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively small water tank and a limited choice of compatible capsules. So it may be better 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 the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy great-tasting, quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle or cost of traditional coffee makers. It's easy to use, using just one backlit stop&go button for selecting the desired quantity of coffee or hot chocolate, and it can be used in complete silence. Its sleek design and compact size make it a great accessory to any room.
We tried the coffee only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 that comes with an milk frother if like lattes and milky drinks. The machine is easy to clean using a a clear water tank that has MIN/MAX indicator lights and an ejectable capsule tray that can be washed in running water. It will shut down automatically after nine minutes of no activity and the power cable can be separated from the machine, making it simple to move.
As with many capsule machines it's important to clean your Jolie regularly 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 time.
3. Breville BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express is a top pick for espresso lovers who want an at-home, real espresso machine. It's one of the few we tested that can make rich lattes that are creamy and smooth, and also produce the thin layer of foam that adds a little additional flavor to your drink. Pound for pound it's also an excellent value for coffee makers for home use particularly when you consider that it's cheaper than professional machines.
This is a true espresso machine, in contrast to other semi-automatic models we have reviewed. It has a built-in steam wand and PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. This means it has some more of a learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic, or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still attainable for those looking to master the art of pulling a perfect shot and create espresso art at home.
The hopper is a huge airtight design that keeps freshness and flavor. It's also easy to remove to clean and refill, a major plus in our book. The tamper can also be removed, which is helpful for those who want to manually tamp your shots or use a double-wall filter.
Other notable features include a fast-heating thermoblock and adjustable grind settings, dose control and drip tray that keeps the beans from your water. It's also simple to clean and use, however it's not as durable as some other models. The biggest issue is its loudness when it's brewing. However, this should diminish as you get more comfortable with it.
4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee maker is small and quiet, making it ideal for small spaces. It's the smaller of the brands machines, and is Lavazza's cheapest capsule coffee maker (although you may still find some of its predecessors, like the Lavazza Tiny A Modo, on Amazon).
The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't have all the bells and whistles. It is quick to heat up and simple to use. It's also a good choice for those who want to test different flavors of capsules without having to shell out for a larger model.
Despite its size despite its size, despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed, and the water tank comes with a handy indicator for MIN/MAX. It's dishwasher-safe, which means you can keep it as clean as you can. The manual provides instructions on how to decal it every three to four month.
This little machine is loved by users who have given it a rating 4.4 stars out of 5. The machine's quiet operation, the wide range of options it offers, and the fact that pods can be composted or recycled are all highly applauded. Some users did have issues with the capacity of the used capsule however this was easily solved.
In the box inside, you'll find an electrical plug and power cable along with an instruction manual, a quick-guide, warranty sheet and a tester box that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of them are roasted, and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. The other two are organic, which means that you'll have a wide selection to choose from when you're looking for your next cup of tea!
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 has the potential to revolutionize the way you make coffee at home and is available at a very affordable cost.
Our test team was impressed with the speed and quality of the final product. The streamlined machine is easy to wipe down, while the waste bin and capsule tray are spacious enough to prevent a accumulation of capsules that have been used. 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 an authentic espresso with every sip. The machine's automatic brewing system is so precise that it scans every capsule barcode and adjusts the settings automatically to the right level for the drink you prefer. You will need an additional machine for making lattes or cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet and easy to use and is a good benefit for those who are early risers and those with busy families.
The VertuoPlus has more presets, but it is not as customizable. This isn't an issue for those that prefer to play around until they discover the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be set at the back or to 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 ability to hold your next cup while the machine is heating and alerts when you haven't filled it with water or if it's in need of descaling.