The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a fan of Nespresso but want to step away from their tiny capsules look no further than this machine. It works with larger Vertuo capsules, and reads the barcode to automatically adjust settings for your chosen drink size.
It can save customized drinks to a button for speedy brewing, and offers americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also comes with a height-adjustable dripping tray and an energy-saving sleep setting.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines to join the Nespresso line in the year 2017. It is narrower than the other models and can fit into smaller spaces. And it comes with a broader selection of colors, too.
The machine uses the latest version of Nespresso's pod-based technology. Instead of piercing the capsule in order to pump hot water through it, the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule at speeds up to 7000rpm. This mixes ground coffee with water to create a brew. The capsule drips out of the smaller holes of 18 and into the central hole and gives your drink a thicker crema. The machine can make both espresso-style and lungo-style drinks.
It scans a barcode at the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending method to each. You aren't able to mix capsules from other brands with Vertuo plus because only Nespresso capsules come with a barcode.
There's just one button to press on the top of the machine and it's simple to use. Simply press the silver lever at the front and it raises to reveal a place for your preferred pod. Drop the pod into place and press the single button to start the brewing.
The machine comes with an ounce reservoir of water that is 40 ounces and it is able to automatically release capsules used up internally. It also has a warm up time of about 15 seconds, and an energy-saving auto shut off after nine minutes of inactivity. The machine is simple to operate and reliable, and requires minimal maintenance. If you're looking to reduce the waste that is generated, make sure to have a good recycling system for your used pods.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine by Lavazza can bring a touch of class to your coffee table. The clever Centrifusion Technology scans the barcode of your chosen capsule to dispense the exact amount of water needed for the perfect cup. It comes in a variety of colors and can make up to five different sizes, including gran latte and double espresso.
This machine is a little more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines, as it also comes with the option of heating and dispense milk. However, it's still much more foolproof than a traditional home espresso maker and is an excellent choice for those who aren't confident using 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 placed behind it. There's a large capsule bin that can hold ten used capsules at one time.
Similar to the Vertuo Plus, it's easy to use and can be heated in just a few minutes. It's also quiet and consumes minimal energy, so it's an excellent choice for electric costs.
This model comes with one disadvantage: it only works with Lavazza capsules, not the Nespresso range. This might not be a problem for a lot of people but it could be an issue for those who prefer to switch between brands. If you do decide to go with this machine, be sure you purchase a set of 100 capsules reusable with the purchase. They're not expensive, but you'll save money over the long term because they are cheaper than Nespresso capsules.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automatic machine with an extremely simple operation. It uses a wide cup platform that can be set at different heights, to fit tall glasses as well as small espresso cups, and it's easy to pick your preferred settings thanks to the numbered buttons. You can also save four personal variations, making this a good option for couples and families with different tastes. The machine is energy efficient and has a handy indicator that lets you know when it's time for descaling (which requires an instruction disc that is tucked into the slot).
Like all machines from the Tassimo system it's designed to work with the company's branded, barcoded T-Discs that include everything from tea, coffee and hot chocolate to cold drinks and milk that is frothy. It has Intellibrew technology, which automatically detects the type of drink and adjusts the brewing time, temperature, and strength accordingly. This stops you from altering settings that aren't logical, such as the strength of coffee with milk. It also ensures your beverage tastes consistently good.
The My Way 2 has an extensive selection of flavors to choose from, including more than 50 well-known brands including Costa favorite brands, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can make cappuccinos, lattes and even frosty Americanos.
It is easy to clean and comes with a standby mode that saves energy. The water tank is easily removed and refilled with fresh water. In contrast to other pod machines it doesn't come with a built-in method for disposing of the used T discs, however it has partnered with Podback to allow you to recycle them in a local program.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee machine on the market since only a few years. It is able to compete against the latest models. Its slimline design occupies 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 inexpensive however the Jolie is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable capsule coffee maker that makes high-quality espresso with little effort. The Jolie also comes with an easy steam wand which lets you add milk to make the perfect cappuccino. It's also one of the quietest we've tested so it won’t disrupt sleep-ins with family members in the early morning.
SMEG has a reputation for elegant kitchen equipment, and this retro-looking pod coffee maker is no different (choose from cream, red or black). Compact enough to fit on the counter, yet still functional. One press makes a short or long lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven days without usage.
The Jolie is a great choice for those who like the 1950s design aesthetic of SMEG or if you're looking to make your coffee more than the top brands have to provide. It comes with a Bloom & Brew feature that pre-wettes the capsule and makes it more flavorful cup. Other settings allow you to adjust the amount of water you use as well as adjust the temperature of your coffee and adjust the pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the ideal machine for those seeking an espresso in the morning or an espresso that will help fuel their day. It's a capsule machine that is automatic with a sleek style that is easy to use. It has a unique design inspired by the infinity sign, and also includes the triangular water tank, as well as a the globular pod holder.
The Infinissima has a distinctive exterior, but it does not sacrifice quality. It utilizes a high-pressure system that extracts the most flavor from each coffee capsule, and produces professional-quality cafe style crema. It also has a quick heating process so that your drinks are ready within minutes. It also has a huge, removable 1.2L water tank, so you can make multiple cups without having to refill.
The Infinissima can also brew cold and hot drinks. The adjustable temperature settings offer a wide variety of options, including iced coffee and latte macchiato. It comes with an in-cup heating plate that keeps your drink warm, which prevents it from cooling too quickly. The Infinissima also comes with a timer function that shuts off the machine after a set period of inactivity, thus promoting energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is simple to use, with easy controls and a clear pods coffee machines LCD display that lets you select your beverage options. It also has a self-rising pod holder, which makes it easy to insert the capsules and then fill the tank with water. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit, which allows the reuse of capsules. Infinissima capsules are an excellent choice when you're looking for a top-quality machine in Qatar.