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 barcodes of each capsule to automatically adjust the settings for the desired size of drink.
It comes with espresso and ristretto options and the option to save drinks you've created. It also has an adjustable height dripping tray as well as 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, which allows it to fit in more spaces. It comes in more colours.
The machine uses the latest version of Nespresso's pod-based system. Vertuo Plus spins the capsule at up to 7000rpm, instead of piercing it to pump hot water into it. This mixes ground coffee with water to make the brew. The capsule drips out of the smaller holes of 18 and through the central hole which gives your drink a more dense crema. The machine can make espresso-style and lungo-style drinks.
It scans a barcode that is located on the bottom of each capsule, allowing it to customize its blending method to each. This is why you can't use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's capsules - only Nespresso's own come with the barcode.
There's a single button to press on the top of the machine, and it's simple to use. Press the silver lever at the front to raise it and reveal the space for your chosen pod. Drop it in place and press the single button to start making.
The machine has a 40-ounce water reservoir and it automatically releases capsules that are used internally. It has a heating period of 15 to 20 seconds and a shut-off feature that automatically shuts off after nine minutes. The machine is simple to operate and reliable, and requires minimum maintenance. But, if you want to reduce the amount 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. Its clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of your chosen capsule and dispenses precisely the right amount of water to make your perfect cup. It comes in a variety of colors and comes in up to five different sizes of hot or iced drinks, including double espresso.
This machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines in that it also offers the possibility of heating and dispensing milk. It's still more fool-proof than a home espresso machine, and is a good alternative for those who aren't at ease using a manual espresso maker. 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. The large capsule bin can hold up to ten capsules.
It's easy to use and is ready to heat up in a matter of minutes. It's also very quiet in operation and uses only a small amount of energy, which makes it an ideal choice for your electric bills.
The model has one disadvantage that it is only compatible with Lavazza capsules and not the Nespresso range. This might not be an issue for most people but it could be an issue for those who are interested in changing brands. If you decide to buy this machine, be sure to buy 100 reusable capsules along with the purchase. They aren't expensive, but you'll save money in the long run as they tend to be less expensive than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automatic machine that has a very simple operation. It uses a wide cup platform that can be placed at different heights, to fit tall glasses and little espresso cups, and it's easy to pick your preferred settings using the numbered buttons. You can also store four individual variations, making this a good option for couples and families with differing tastes. The machine is energy efficient and features an indicator that tells you when it's time to descaling (which requires an instruction disc tucked in the slot).
It's designed to work like all Tassimo systems with the company's branded barcoded T Discs, which contain everything from cold drinks coffee, tea and hot chocolate, to frothy, cold milk. Intellibrew technology detects the type of drink and adjusts the timing and temperature as well as the strength to meet. This helps you avoid altering settings that aren't sensible, such as the strength of coffee when you add milk. It also ensures your drink tastes consistently good.
The My Way 2 has a wide selection of flavours to choose from, including more than 50 famous brands including Costa favorite brands, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can make lattes, cappuccinos and even fluffy Americanos.
It is easy to clean and features a standby mode that saves energy. The water tank is easily removed and filled with fresh water. It doesn't come with an inbuilt mechanism to dispose of old T Discs. Instead it has partnered up with Podback which is a recycling company, to allow you to recycle the discs with an on-site program.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee maker that has been on market since a few years. It has a lot of advantages against the latest models. Its small, slimline body occupies less space on the countertop than many larger models, while its simple controls make it simple to operate. By pressing a single button, you can choose between espresso and lungo. A removable cup holder allows you to use standard cups or even mugs.
The Jolie is not cheap, however it's a great option for anyone seeking a simple capsule espresso maker that produces excellent espresso with the least amount of effort. A handy steam wand comes included too that allows you to add milk to a cappuccino or latte. It's also one of the quietest machines we've seen and won't disturb families with early morning sleep-ins.
SMEG has a reputation for stylish kitchen gear and this retro-styled coffee maker is no exception (choose from red, cream or black). Small enough to fit on your counter, yet still functional. One press makes a short or long lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven days of no use.
If you're a fan the 1950s style of SMEG or you want to make your coffee more customized than the big brands offer, the Jolie is a good option to consider. It includes an app that offers more barista recipes and a Bloom & Brew setting that pre-wets and infuses the capsule to make a better cup and other settings let you control the amount of water you use and adjust the coffee temperature and pressure.
5. Infinissima
If you're in the market for an easy cup of coffee to fuel your day, or a decadent morning espresso, the Infinissima has you covered. It's a sleek, automatic capsule machine that is easy to use and offers various beverages to choose from. It has a unique design that is inspired by the infinity symbol and comes with the triangular water tank, as well as a globular pod holder.
The Infinissima's quirky design is fun but it doesn't sacrifice quality. It uses a high pressure system to extract the maximum flavor from each capsule coffee and produces professional quality crema in the cafe style. It also has a fast heating process so that your drinks are ready in minutes. It also comes with a large, removable water tank that measures 1.2L making it possible to prepare several cups without having to refill.
Another fantastic feature is Infinissima's ability to brew both hot and cold drinks. The temperature settings are adjustable, allowing you to choose from a range of capsule coffee makers drinks such as iced coffee and macarchiato latte. It also has the cup warming plate that can keep your beverage warm and stop it from cooling too quickly. The Infinissima also comes with a timer function that turns off the machine after a predetermined time of inactivity, which helps to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is simple to use, with easy controls and a clear LCD which lets you select your beverages. It also comes with a self-rising capsule holder that makes it easy to insert capsules and fill the water tank. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit, which allows you to reuse used capsules. If you're looking for a great capsule coffee machine in Qatar Infinissima is a great choice.