10 Best Capsule Coffee Machine Tips All Experts Recommend
The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017If you're a fan of Nespresso but would like to step away from their tiny capsules take a look at this machine. It makes use of larger Vertuo capsules and reads the barcode of each capsule to automatically adjust the settings for the desired size of drink.
It is able to save custom drinks to a button for super-speedy brewing, and offers americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also comes with a adjustable drip tray with a height adjustment and energy-saving sleep mode.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines to join the Nespresso line in 2017. It is smaller than other models and can fit into smaller spaces. It's available in a variety of colors.
The machine is the most recent version of Nespresso's pod-based system. Vertuo Plus spins the capsule at up to 7000rpm instead of puncturing it to pump hot water into it. This mixes ground coffee with water to make the brew. The capsule drips out of the 18 smaller holes and into the central hole which gives your drink a richer crema. The machine can make both espresso-style and lungo-style drinks.
It scans a barcode that is located on the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending process to suit each. This is why you cannot use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's exclusive capsules come with the barcode.
There's only a single button to press on the top of the machine, and it's a breeze to use. Simply press the silver lever on the front and it'll raise to reveal a space for your chosen pod. Drop the pod into place and then press the single button for the brewing.
The machine comes with an ounce reservoir of water that is 40 ounces and it is able to automatically release capsules that are used internally. It has a heating time of 15 to 20 seconds and a shut-off feature that automatically shuts off after nine minutes. This is a neat, reliable and easy-to-use machine with minimal maintenance. If you're looking to eliminate the waste that is generated, make sure you have a reliable recycling system for your used pods.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine from Lavazza is an eye-catching addition to your coffee area. Its innovative Centrifusion technology scans the barcode on your chosen capsule and dispenses exactly the right amount of water to make the perfect cup. It's available in a variety of colors and makes up five different sizes of hot or iced drinks including gran lungo and double espresso.
This machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines, as it also offers the option of heating and dispensing milk. However, it's much more foolproof than a traditional home espresso maker, and is an excellent choice for those who don't feel comfortable with a manual coffee maker. The Jolie comes with a large chrome lever that can be opened and closed by the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be inserted behind it. There's a huge capsule bin that can hold ten used capsules at a time.
It's easy to use, and heats up within minutes. It's also very quiet and consumes very less energy, meaning you'll save on your electricity bills.
The only drawback to this model is that it can only use Lavazza's capsules, instead of the variety of Nespresso pods. This might not be an issue for the majority of people, but could be for those who like changing brands. If you do decide to go with this machine, ensure that you get a pack of 100 reusable capsules with your purchase. These capsules are not expensive, but they can save you money over time as they are less expensive than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automatic machine that has an extremely simple operation. It has a wide platform that can be adjusted to different heights for tall glasses or smaller espresso cups. The buttons are numbered, making it easy to pick your preferred settings. This machine lets you keep four different options. It's an excellent choice for couples or families with different preferences. The machine is energy efficient and there's an easy-to-read indicator that lets you know when the water tank is empty or descaling is needed (which requires the use of a service disc, which is tucked into a slot along with instructions).
Like all Tassimo system machines it's designed to work with the company's branded barcoded T-Discs which include everything from coffee, tea and hot chocolate to cold drinks and creamy milk. It's equipped with Intellibrew technology that automatically recognises the type of drink and adjusts timing, temperature and strength in accordance with the drink. This stops you from accidentally changing settings that are not sensible, such as the strength of coffee when you add milk. It also ensures your drink tastes consistently good.
The My Way 2 offers a wide range of flavours including Costa favorite Kenco, L'OR, and Cadbury's. You can make lattes, cappuccinos and even frosty Americanos.
The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby feature and is easy to clean. Its water tank is easy to remove and is filled with fresh tap water. It doesn't come with an inbuilt mechanism to dispose of old T Discs. Instead, it has partnered with Podback which is a recycling company that allows you to recycle the discs with a local program.
4. Jolie
A diminutive pod coffee machine that's been in the market for a few years, Jolie stands up well against the latest models. Its slim design takes up less counter space than larger machines and its controls are easy to operate. By pressing a single button, you can choose between espresso and lungo. A cup holder that is removable allows you to use standard cups or mugs.
It's not cheap however the Jolie is a great option for anyone after an easy capsule coffee maker that can produce excellent espresso with minimum effort. A handy steam wand comes included too, making it possible to add milk to an espresso or cappuccino. It's also among the quietest machines we've tried, so it won't disturb families with early morning sleep-ins.
SMEG is known for its elegant kitchen equipment, and this retro-looking pod coffee maker is no exception (choose from cream, red or black). Small enough to fit on your counter, but still functional. One press makes the long or short lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven days of no use.
If you're a fan the 1950s style of SMEG or you want to customize your coffee more than the major brands, the Jolie is worth a look. It includes a Bloom & Brew feature that pre-wettes the capsule and makes it more flavorful cup. Other settings let you adjust the amount of water you use and also adjust the temperature of the coffee and adjust the pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the perfect machine for those who want an espresso in the morning or an espresso that can fuel their day. It's a sleek and sophisticated capsule machine that's simple to use and offers an array of beverages to choose from. It has a unique design inspired by the infinity symbol and also includes a triangular water tank and globular pod holder.
The Infinissima has a unique exterior, but it does not compromise on quality. It uses a high-pressure system that extracts the maximum flavor from each coffee capsule and produces professional-quality cafe style crema. It features a fast heating time, so your coffee will be ready in minutes. It also comes with a large, removable 1.2L water tank, so you can make multiple cups without having to refill.
The Infinissima capsule coffee maker can also make cold and hot drinks. Its temperature settings are adjustable and can give you a wide range of choices, including iced coffee and macchiato latte. It comes with the cup heating plate, which keeps your beverage warm, preventing it from cooling down too fast. The Infinissima also has a timer function that turns off the machine after a predetermined period of inactivity, promoting energy efficiency.
The Infinissima has simple controls and an LCD screen that allows you to select your beverage. It also has a self-rising capsule holder that makes it easier to add capsules and refill the water tank. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit, which allows you to reuse capsules that have been used. If you're looking for a top capsule coffee maker in Qatar Infinissima is an excellent option.