The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a fan of Nespresso but would like to move away from their tiny pods, look no further than this machine. It makes use of larger Vertuo capsules and reads the barcodes of each capsule to automatically adjust the settings to your desired drink size.
It can save customised drinks to a single button for fast making, and also offers ristretto, espresso and americano options. It also has an adjustable dripping tray that can be adjusted in height and an energy-saving sleep setting.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines that came into the Nespresso line in 2017. It's narrower than other models, allowing it to fit in more space. And it's available in a wider choice of colors, too.
The machine uses the latest version of Nespresso’s pod-based system. Instead of piercing the capsule to pump hot water through it, the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule around at speeds of up to 7000rpm. The brew is made by mixing ground coffee with water. The capsule drips out of the smaller holes of 18 and through the central hole, giving your drink a more dense crema. The machine can brew both espresso and longer lungo-style drinks.
It reads a barcode on the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending process to suit each. This is why you cannot use capsules from other brands using the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's exclusive capsules contain the barcode.
There's just one button to press on the top of the machine and it's simple to operate. Simply press the silver lever at the front and it raises to reveal a space for your preferred pod. Then drop it into place and press the single button to start making.
The machine comes with a 40-ounce reservoir of water and it is able to automatically release the used capsules internally. It also has a heating up time of just 15 to 20 seconds and an energy-saving automatic shut off after nine minutes of inactivity. It's a stylish, reliable and easy-to-use machine with minimal maintenance. If you're looking to eliminate an abundance of waste, be sure you have a reliable recycling system for the used pods.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine by Lavazza will bring a touch of class to your coffee area. The clever Centrifusion Technology scans the barcode of your selected capsule to give you the precise amount of water needed for the perfect cup. It comes in a variety colors and comes in up to five different sizes, including gran latte and double espresso.
This machine is a little more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, as it can heat and dispense milk. It's still more reliable than a regular espresso machine and a great choice for those who don't feel comfortable using a manual coffeemaker. The Jolie is equipped with a large lever which opens and closes the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be put behind it. There's a large capsule bin that can hold ten of your used capsules at a time.
Like the Vertuo Plus, it's also easy to use and warms up within a matter of minutes. It's also very quiet in operation and uses only a small amount of energy, which makes it an excellent choice for electricity bills.
The only drawback to this model is that it is only compatible with Lavazza's capsules, rather than the range of Nespresso pods. This isn't an issue for most people but it could be an issue for those who like changing brands. If you do decide to go with this machine, ensure you purchase a set of 100 reusable capsules with your purchase. They aren't inexpensive, but they will save money over the long term since they are cheaper than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automated machine that's very easy to use. It features a wide cup platform that can be set at different heights, to fit tall glasses and small espresso cups. It's easy to pick your preferred settings using numerals on the buttons. You can also save four personal variations, making this a good choice for families and couples with differing tastes. The machine is energy efficient and has a handy indicator to let you know when the tank is full or when descaling is needed (which requires an service disc that's placed in a slot with the instruction).
Like the other 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 has Intellibrew technology that automatically recognizes the kind of drink and adjusts the the brewing time, temperature, and strength according to the type of drink. This stops you from accidentally adjusting in a way that isn't sensible, for example, changing the strength of a coffee made with milk, and ensures that the drink tasting perfect.
The My Way 2 offers an array of flavors including Costa favorites Kenco, L'OR, and Cadbury's. You can make cappuccinos, lattes and even frothy Americanos.
It is easy to clean and comes with a standby mode which saves energy. The water tank can be easily removed and filled with fresh water. Unlike some pod machines, it doesn't come with an integrated mechanism for disposing of the old T discs, however it has formed a partnership with Podback to let you recycle them in an initiative in your area.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee machine that has been on the market since a few years. It has a lot of advantages against the latest models. The slim, sleek body occupies less space on a countertop than larger models and its simple controls make it simple to operate. By pressing a single button, you can select between lungo and espresso. A removable cup holder allows you to use standard cups or mugs.
It's not inexpensive but the Jolie is a good choice for those looking for an easy capsule coffee maker that makes quality espresso with minimal fuss. The Jolie also comes with an easy steam wand which allows you to add milk to create the perfect cappuccino. It's also one of the quietest we've tested, which means it won't interfere with sleep-ins for the family in the early morning.
SMEG has a reputation for elegant kitchen equipment, and this retro-looking pod coffee machine is no exception (choose from cream, red best coffee machines with pods or black). Compact enough to fit on the counter, but still functional. One press of a button brews an espresso in a short amount or a longer lungo, and its energy saving mode goes into standby after two minutes of inactivity or seven days of no use.
The Jolie is a great option for those who love the 1950s design aesthetic of SMEG or you want to personalize your coffee better than what the major brands provide. It has a Bloom & Brew feature that pre-wettes the capsule and makes it more flavorful cup. Other options let you adjust the amount of water you use as well as adjust the temperature of your coffee and also adjust the pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the perfect machine for those who want an espresso in the morning or an espresso that will help fuel their day. It's a sleek and sophisticated capsule machine that's easy to use and offers an array of beverages. It features a unique design that's inspired by the infinity sign and includes the triangular water tank, as well as a globular pod holder.
The Infinissima's quirky design is fun, it doesn't compromise on quality. It utilizes a high pressure system to extract the maximum flavor from each capsule of coffee and creates professional-quality crema in the cafe style. It's got a quick heating time, meaning you can have your drinks ready in minutes. It also has a huge, removable 1.2L water tank, which means you can make several cups before having to refill.
Another fantastic feature is Infinissima's capacity to brew hot and cold beverages. The adjustable temperature settings give you a wide range of options, ranging including iced coffee and latte macchiato. It has an in-cup heating plate that keeps your beverage warm, preventing it from cooling down too fast. The Infinissima also comes with a timer function that turns off the machine after a predetermined period of inactivity, thus promoting energy efficiency.
The Infinissima has simple controls and an LCD display which allows you to choose your beverage. It also has self-rising pod holders, which makes it simpler to insert the capsules and then fill the water tank. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit that allows you to reuse used capsules. If you're in search of a high-quality capsule coffee machine in Qatar, the Infinissima is an excellent choice.