The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
This machine is perfect for Nespresso lovers who want to go away from the tiny capsules. It is compatible with larger Vertuo capsules, analyzing the barcode to automatically adjust settings to suit your desired drink size.
It can save customized drinks to a button for super-speedy brewing, and offers espresso, ristretto and americano options. It also comes with an adjustable dripping tray that can be adjusted in height and an energy-saving sleep setting.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new machines to join the Nespresso range in 2017. It's a bit smaller than other models, allowing it to fit in more spaces. It's also available in a wider choice of colours too.
The machine runs the latest version of Nespresso's pod-based technology. Vertuo Plus spins the capsule at up to 7000rpm instead piercing it to pump hot water into it. The capsule mixes ground coffee and water to make the brew. The capsule dribbles out of the smaller holes of 18 and into the central hole and gives your drink a thicker crema. The machine can brew both espresso as well as longer lungo-style drinks.
It reads the barcode located at the bottom of each capsule to adjust the method of blending for each. This is the reason you can't use capsules from other brands using the Vertuo Plus - only Nespresso's own pods come with the barcode.
There's only a single button to press across the top of the machine, and it's easy to use. Just press the silver lever in the front and it'll raise to reveal a place for your chosen pod. Drop the pod into place and press the single button to start making.
The machine has a 40-ounce water reservoir and it automatically ejects the used capsules internally. It also has a warm up time of only 15-20 seconds, and an energy-saving auto shut-off after nine minutes of inactivity. It's a stylish device that is reliable and simple to use with low maintenance. If you want to minimize the production of waste with this type of machine, be sure to establish an effective recycling plan for the pods that are no longer being used.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine from Lavazza is a striking addition to your coffee area. The clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of your selected capsule to provide the right amount of water you need for your perfect cup. It comes in a variety of colors and comes in up to five different sizes of hot or iced drinks, including gran lungo and double espresso.
The machine is a bit more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, as it can heat and dispensing milk. However, it's still much more foolproof than a standard home espresso maker. It's an excellent choice for those who aren't comfortable using a manual coffee maker. The Jolie comes with a huge chrome lever which opens and shuts the capsule slot, while the 0.9-litre water tank is positioned behind it. There's a large capsule bin too, which will hold ten used capsules at one time.
Like the Vertuo Plus, it's also easy to use and can be heated in just a few minutes. It is also very quiet and consumes very only a small amount of energy, which means you'll save money on your electric bill.
The only drawback to this model is that it only works with Lavazza's own capsules, rather than the range of Nespresso capsules. This may not be a problem for many individuals, but it could be an issue for those who prefer to switch between brands. If you decide to purchase this machine, be sure to buy 100 capsules that can be reused with your purchase. These capsules are not expensive, but they can save you money in the long run as they are less expensive than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automated machine with a very simple operation. It has a large cup platform that can be placed at different heights, to fit tall glasses and small espresso cups. It's easy to pick your preferred settings thanks to the numbered buttons. You can also save four personal variations which makes it a great choice for families and couples with different preferences. The machine is energy efficient and has a handy indicator that tells you when it's time to descale (which requires an instruction disc tucked in the slot).
It's designed to work like other Tassimo systems, with the company's branded barcoded T Discs which include everything from cold drinks tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, to chilled, frothy milk. Intellibrew technology automatically detects the type and adjusts the time and temperature as well as the strength to meet. This helps you avoid accidentally changing settings that aren't logical, such as the strength of coffee brewed with milk. It also ensures your beverage tastes consistently good.
The My Way 2 offers a wide range of flavours including Costa favorite Kenco, L'OR, and Cadbury's. You can even make lattes and cappuccinos that are frothy and also refreshing Americanos and indulgent flat whites.
It is easy to clean and comes with an automatic standby mode that conserves energy. The water tank can be coffee machine capsule easy to remove and is filled with fresh tap water. It doesn't come with an integrated mechanism for disposing of T Discs that are used. Instead it has partnered up with Podback, a recycling company which allows you to recycle the discs with an online program.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee maker that has been on market since just a few years. It holds its own against newer models. Its slim, compact body takes up less space on countertops than many larger machines and its simple controls make it simple to operate. You can choose between lungo or espresso at the touch of an arrow, and a removable cup holder allows you to use standard cups or mugs too.
It's not inexpensive but the Jolie is a great option for those looking for a basic capsule coffee maker that produces excellent espresso with minimum effort. A handy steam wand is included too that allows you to add milk for an espresso or cappuccino. It's also among the quietest that we've tested, which means it won't interfere with sleep-ins for the family in the early morning.
SMEG is known for its chic kitchen appliances and this retro-styled coffee pod maker is no different (choose between black, cream or red). Small enough to fit on the counter, yet still functional. A single push of a button will make either a shorter espresso or a longer lungo, while its energy saving mode is put into standby after two minutes of inactivity and seven days of inactivity.
The Jolie is a great option for those who love the retro style of SMEG or you want to personalize your coffee better than what the big brands can provide. It includes an app that provides more barista recipes and a Bloom & Brew setting that prepares the capsule to be wet and infuses it to make a better cup and other settings let you control the amount of water you use and alter the temperature of your coffee and pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the perfect machine for those seeking quick morning espresso or an espresso that will help fuel their day. It's an automatic capsule machine with a sleek style that is simple to use. It's got a unique design inspired by the infinity symbol. It includes the globular pod holder as well as a triangular water tank, which makes it look like modern art.
The Infinissima has a distinctive exterior however it doesn't compromise on quality. It uses a high pressure system to extract the best flavor from each capsule of coffee and creates professional-quality cafe style crema. It also has a fast heating process so that your drinks are ready in minutes. It also comes with a large removable 1.2L water tank, which means you can make multiple cups before you need to refill.
The Infinissima can also brew cold and hot drinks. The temperature settings are adjustable, allowing you to choose from a range of drinks such as iced coffee and macarchiato with latte. It has the cup heating plate, which keeps your drink warm, preventing it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima also has a timer function that turns off the machine after a predetermined time of inactivity, which helps to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is easy to use, featuring simple controls and a clear LCD display that lets you select your beverages. It also comes with self-rising pod holders, which makes it easy to insert the capsules and then fill the water tank. It also comes with a convenient filter and cleaning kit that allow the reuse of capsules. Infinissima capsules are an excellent choice when you're looking for a top-quality machine in Qatar.