The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a fan of Nespresso but want to step away from their tiny pods look no further than this machine. It makes use of larger Vertuo capsules and reads the barcode of each capsule to automatically adjust the settings for 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 has a adjustable drip tray that can be adjusted in height and a sleep mode that is energy-efficient.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new-style machines to join the Nespresso range in 2017. It's a bit smaller than other models, allowing it to be able to fit into larger space. And it's available in a wider choice of colors too.
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 create a brew. The capsule drips out of the 18 smaller holes and into the central hole and gives your drink a more dense crema. The machine is able to make espresso drinks and lungo-style drinks that are longer in length.
It scans a barcode at the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending process to suit each. This is why you can't use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus - only Nespresso's own pods contain the barcode.
It's simple to operate, with only one button at the top. Just press the silver lever on the front, and it will raise to reveal a space for your chosen pod. Drop it in place and press the single button to begin making.
The machine has a 40-ounce reservoir of water that automatically removes capsules that are used from the inside. It also has a warm up time of just 15 to 20 seconds and an energy-saving automatic shut-off after nine minutes of inactivity. This is a great device that is reliable and simple to use with very little maintenance. But, if you want to reduce the amount of waste using this kind of system, 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 stunning addition to your coffee area. Its clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of the capsule you choose and then dispenses exactly the right amount of water to make your perfect cup. It's available in a range of colors and makes up to five different sizes of hot or iced drink, including gran lungo and double espresso.
This machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines, as it also has the option of heating and dispense milk. However, it's much more foolproof than a conventional home espresso maker and is an excellent choice for those who don't feel comfortable using a manual coffee maker. The Jolie is equipped with a large chrome lever that can be opened and closed by the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be put behind it. The large capsule bin can hold up to ten empty capsules.
It is easy to use, and is ready to heat up in a matter of minutes. It's also very quiet and consumes only a small amount of energy, which makes it an excellent choice for electricity costs.
The only drawback to this model is that it only works with Lavazza's own capsules instead of the wide range of Nespresso capsules. This might not be an issue for everyone but it could be an issue for those who are interested in changing brands. If you decide to buy this machine, make sure to buy 100 reusable capsules along with the purchase. They aren't cheap, but you will save money over the long term as they tend to be cheaper than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automated machine with an easy operation. It has a large cup platform that can be set at different heights to suit tall glasses and small espresso cups. It's easy to choose your preferred settings using numbered buttons. You can also save four personal variations, making this a good option for couples and families with different preferences. The machine is energy-efficient and there's an easy-to-read indicator that lets you know when the tank is full or the need for descaling is present (which requires an service disc that's placed in a slot with the instruction).
It's designed to work, like other Tassimo systems with the company's branded barcoded T Discs that contain everything from cold drinks, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, to cool, frothy milk. Intellibrew technology detects the type of drink and adjusts the brewing time, temperature, and strength to match. This helps you avoid altering settings that are not sensible like the strength of coffee brewed with milk. It also ensures your drink is consistently delicious.
The My Way 2 has a great range of flavours to choose from, with more than 50 brands that are famous, including Costa favourites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can even make frothy cappuccinos and lattes and uplifting Americanos and luscious flat whites.
The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby mode, and it's easy to clean. Its water tank is easy to remove and is filled with fresh tap water. In contrast to other pod machines it doesn't come with an integrated mechanism for disposing of the old T Discs, but it has formed a partnership with Podback to allow you to recycle them in an initiative in your area.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee machine on the market since just a few years. It has a lot of advantages against newer models. The slim, sleek body takes up less space on a countertop than larger models and its simple controls make it simple to operate. You can choose from espresso or lungo at the push of the button and a cup holder lets you use standard cups or mugs too.
It's not cheap, but the Jolie is a great option for anyone after a basic capsule coffee maker that produces excellent espresso with minimum effort. A handy steam wand comes included too that allows you to add milk for a cappuccino or latte. It's also among the quietest machines we've seen and won't disturb families with early morning sleep-ins.
SMEG is known for its stylish kitchen equipment, and this retro-looking coffee pod machine is no different (choose between cream, black or red). It's small enough to be able to fit in between other appliances on your counter but doesn't compromise on features. One press makes a short or long lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven consecutive days of usage.
If you're a lover of the SMEG's 1950s-inspired design style or would like to make your coffee more customized than the major brands, the Jolie is worth a look. It comes with an app that offers more barista recipes and a Bloom & Brew setting that prepares the capsule to be wet and infuses it to create a better cup while other settings let you regulate the amount of water used and adjust the coffee temperature and pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the perfect machine for those looking for a quick morning espresso or an espresso that can fuel their day. It's a sleek and sophisticated capsule machine that's easy to use and provides an array of beverages to choose from. Its coffee machine capsule unique design is inspired by the infinity symbol and includes a globular pod holder and triangular water tank that 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 maximum flavor from each capsule of coffee and produces professional quality crema in the cafe style. It has a rapid heating time, so you can have your drinks ready in just a few minutes. It also comes with a large removable water tank that measures 1.2L so you can prepare several cups without having to refill.
Another great feature is the Infinissima's ability to brew both hot and cold drinks. Its adjustable temperature settings can give you a wide range of options, from iced coffee to a macchiato latte. It also has a cup heating plate that keeps your beverage warm, preventing it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima also comes with 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 lets you select your beverage. It also comes with an auto-rising pod holder which makes it simpler to insert the capsules and fill the water tank. Additionally, it comes with a handy cleaning kit and a handy reusable filter that allows you to reuse your used capsules. Infinissima capsules are a great option if you're searching for a good machine in Qatar.