The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a fan of Nespresso but would like to step away from their tiny pods look no further than this machine. It is compatible with larger Vertuo capsules, reading the barcode to automatically adjust settings for your chosen drink size.
It offers ristretto and espresso options as well as the option of saving drinks you've created. It also has a handy adjustable drip tray that can be adjusted in height and a energy-saving sleep mode.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new-style machines to join the Nespresso range in 2017. It's narrower than other models, allowing it to fit in more space. It's also available with a broader selection of colors, too.
The machine is the most recent incarnation of Nespresso's pod-based coffee system. Instead of piercing the capsule in order to pump hot water through it the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule around at up to 7000rpm. It mixes ground coffee with water to create a brew. The capsule drips from the 18 smaller holes and into the central hole and gives your drink a thicker crema. The machine is able to make coffee and lungo-style drinks.
It scans a barcode at the bottom of each capsule to adjust its blending process to suit each. This is the reason you can't use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's capsules - only Nespresso's own have the barcode.
There's only a single button to press across the top of the machine and it's a breeze to use. Just press the silver lever in the front and it raises to reveal a place for your chosen pod. Drop the pod into place and press the single button to start making.
The machine comes with a 40-ounce reservoir of water and it automatically releases capsules used up internally. It can heat up in a time of 15-20 seconds, and an automatic shut-off after nine minutes. This machine is easy to use and reliable, and requires minimum maintenance. But, if you want to reduce the amount of waste from this kind of system, make sure to set up an effective recycling plan for the pods that are no longer being used.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine from Lavazza will add a touch of elegance to your coffee table. Its clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode on the capsule you choose and then dispenses precisely the right amount of water to create your perfect cup. It comes in a variety of colors and can make up to five different sizes including gran latte and double espresso.
The machine is a bit more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, since it has the ability to heat and dispensing milk. However, it's much more foolproof than a standard home espresso maker and is an ideal choice for those who don't feel comfortable with a manual coffee maker. The Jolie is equipped with a large chrome lever that opens and closes the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be put behind it. There's a huge capsule bin as well, which can hold ten of your used capsules at a time.
It is easy to use, and heats up within minutes. It's also extremely quiet and consumes very little energy, making it an ideal choice for your energy bills.
The only downside to this model is that it can only use Lavazza's own capsules, instead of the wide range of Nespresso capsules. This isn't an issue for most people but it could be an issue for those who prefer switching brands. If you decide to buy this machine, make sure to buy 100 capsules that are reusable with your purchase. They aren't expensive, but you'll save money in the end as they tend to be less expensive than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
A fully automated machine that is easy to use. It uses a wide cup platform that can be positioned at different heights to suit tall glasses and little espresso cups, and it's straightforward to select your preferred settings thanks to the numbered buttons. This machine allows you to store four different versions. It's a great choice for families and couples with different tastes. The machine is energy efficient and there's an indicator that lets you know when the water tank is full or descaling is required (which requires a service disc that's placed in a slot with instructions).
It's designed to work, like other Tassimo systems, with the company's branded barcoded T Discs, capsule coffee maker which contain everything from cold drinks tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, to chilled, frothy milk. Intellibrew technology automatically detects the type and adjusts the time, temperature, and strength to suit. This prevents you from making changes that aren't logical, such as the strength of coffee with milk. It also ensures that your drink is consistently delicious.
The My Way 2 has a wide selection of flavours to choose from, featuring more than 50 famous brands including Costa favourites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can make lattes, cappuccinos and even frothy Americanos.
The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby mode and it's easy to clean. The water tank can be easily removed and refilled with fresh water. Unlike some pod machines, it doesn't come with a built-in method for disposing of the old T Discs, but it has launched a partnership with Podback to enable you to recycle them using a local program.
4. Jolie
A compact pod coffee machine that's been available for a while, Jolie stands up well against more modern models. Its slim, compact body takes up less space on countertops than many larger machines, while its simple controls make it easy to use. You can choose from espresso or lungo by pressing the button and a movable cup holder lets you use standard cups and mugs as well.
The Jolie is not cheap, however it's a great option for those looking for a basic capsule espresso maker that makes high-quality espresso with minimal effort. A handy steam wand comes included too that allows you to add milk to a cappuccino or latte. It's also among the quietest that we've tested, which means it won't disrupt sleep-ins with family members in the early morning.
SMEG is known for its elegant kitchen equipment and this retro-styled coffee maker is no different (choose from red, cream or black). It is small enough to sit on the counter, yet still functional. One press of a button will make a short espresso or longer lungo, and its energy saving mode goes into standby after two minutes of inactivity and seven days of inactivity.
If you're a fan of SMEG's 1950s design aesthetic or want the ability to make your coffee more customized than the major brands, the Jolie is worth a look. It includes an app that offers more barista recipes as well as a Bloom & Brew setting that prepares the capsule to be wet and infuses it to make a better cup while other settings let you regulate the amount of water that is used and also adjust the coffee's temperature and pressure.
5. Infinissima
Whether you're looking for a quick cup of coffee to start your day or an indulgent morning espresso The Infinissima is the perfect choice. It's an automatic capsule machine with a sleek style that is simple to use. It's a distinctive design that's inspired by the infinity sign, and also includes an triangular water tank as well as a an globular pod holder.
Although the Infinissima's unique exterior is cool, it doesn't compromise on quality. It utilizes a high pressure system to extract the best flavor from each capsule coffee, and also produces professional-quality crema that resembles cafes. It has a rapid heating time, so your drinks will be ready in minutes. It also has a large, removable water tank that measures 1.2L which allows you to make several cups without needing to refill.
Another excellent feature is Infinissima's capability to brew hot and cold drinks. Its temperature settings are adjustable and can provide you with a variety of choices, including iced coffee and latte macchiato. It also has an insulated cup warming plate to keep your drink warm and prevent it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima has a timer that will shut off the machine after a certain amount of time. This helps to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is easy to use, with simple controls and a clear LCD display which lets you select your beverages. It also has an auto-rising pod holder which makes it easier to put the capsules in and fill the tank with water. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit that allow the reuse of capsules. If you're in search of a high-quality capsule coffee maker in Qatar Infinissima is the best choice.