The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a lover of Nespresso but want to step away from their tiny pods take a look at this machine. It utilizes larger Vertuo capsules and scans the barcode on each capsule to automatically adjust the settings for the desired size of drink.
It can save customized drinks to a button for speedy brewing, and offers americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also has a handy height-adjustable drip tray and energy-saving sleep mode.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new machines to join the Nespresso range in 2017. It is smaller than other models and is able to fit into smaller spaces. It comes in more colours.
The machine runs the latest version of Nespresso's pod-based technology. Instead of piercing the capsule in order to pump hot water through it, the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule at speeds of up to 7000rpm. It mixes ground coffee with water to make the brew. The capsule then drips through a central hole and through 18 smaller holes, which gives an extremely thick crema to your drink. The machine can make espresso and longer lungo-style drinks.
It scans the barcode on the bottom of each capsule to tailor the method of blending for each. This is why you cannot use capsules from other brands with the Vertuo Plus - only Nespresso's own pods come with the barcode.
There's a single button to press across the top of the machine and it's simple to operate. Just click the silver lever on the front, and it will raise to reveal a space for your chosen pod. Drop the pod into place and then press the single button to start the brewing.
The machine has an ounce reservoir of water that is 40 ounces and it is able to automatically release capsules used up internally. It also has a heating up time of only 15-20 seconds, and an energy-saving auto shut-off after nine minutes of inactivity. It's a stylish and reliable machine with low maintenance. However, if you wish to reduce the amount of waste from this kind of system, be sure to set up a good recycling scheme 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 bar. Its clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of your chosen capsule and dispenses exactly the right amount water to make the perfect cup. It is available in a variety of colors and can make up to five different sizes including double espresso.
This machine is a little more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, since it offers the option to heat and dispense milk. However, it's far more secure than a conventional home espresso maker, and is an excellent choice for those who don't feel comfortable with a manual espresso maker. The Jolie is equipped with a large chrome lever that opens and closes the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be placed behind it. There's a large capsule bin as well, which can hold ten used capsules at one time.
Similar to the Vertuo Plus, it's easy to use and can be heated in just a few minutes. It's also extremely quiet in operation and requires only a small amount of energy, which makes it a good choice for your energy costs.
The only drawback to this model is that it is only compatible with Lavazza's capsules, instead of the variety of Nespresso pods. This might not be a problem for most individuals, but it could be a concern for those who want to switch between brands. If you decide to buy this machine, be sure to get 100 capsules that are reusable with the purchase. They're not cheap, but you will save money over the long term because they are cheaper than Nespresso capsules.
3. Tassimo My Way
Fully automated machine that's very easy to use. It features a large platform that can be adjusted to different heights for tall glasses or small espresso cups. The buttons are numbered, making it easy to select the settings you want. This machine lets you store four different versions. It's an excellent choice for families and couples with different tastes. The machine is energy efficient and has an indicator that informs you when it's time to descale (which requires an instruction disc that is tucked into a slot).
It's designed to work, like other Tassimo systems using the company's brand barcoded T Discs that contain everything from cold drinks coffee, tea hot chocolate, and even frothy, cold milk. Intellibrew technology detects the type of drink and adjusts the brewing time as well as temperature and strength to match. This prevents you from accidentally adjusting nonsensical settings, such as tweaking the strength of a coffee made with milk, and ensures that the drink tasting perfect.
The My Way 2 has an extensive selection of flavors to choose from, with more than 50 well-known brands including Costa favorites, 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. Its water tank is easy to remove and is filled with fresh tap water. Unlike some pod machines, it doesn't have a built-in method for disposing of the old T discs, however it has launched a partnership with Podback to let you recycle them through a local scheme.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a tiny pod coffee maker that has been on market since only a few years. It is able to compete against the latest models. Its slim, compact body takes up less space on countertops than larger models, while its simple controls make it simple to operate. You can choose from espresso or lungo by pressing the button and a cup holder lets you use regular cups or mugs, too.
It's not expensive however the Jolie is a great option for those looking for an easy capsule coffee maker that makes quality espresso with minimal fuss. A handy steam wand is included, making it possible to add milk for a cappuccino or latte. It's also among the quietest machines we've tested, so it won't disturb early morning family sleep-ins.
SMEG has a reputation for elegant kitchen equipment and this retro-styled pod coffee maker is no exception (choose from cream, red or black). It's small enough to be able to fit in between other appliances on your counter top but doesn't skimp on functionality. One button press can brew either the long or short lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven consecutive days of use.
The Jolie is a great option if you like the 1950s design aesthetic of SMEG or if you're looking to make your coffee to be better than the major brands offer. It includes an app that has more barista recipes and a Bloom & Brew setting that prepares the capsule to be wet and infuses it for a better cup, while other settings let you control the amount of water you use and alter the temperature of your coffee and pressure.
5. Infinissima
Whether you're in the market for a quick cup of coffee to start your day, or a decadent morning espresso The Infinissima offers you everything. It's a sleek automatic capsule machine that's simple to website use and offers various beverages to choose from. It has a unique design inspired by the infinity symbol and includes a triangular water tank and the globular pod holder.
The Infinissima's quirky design is fun but it doesn't sacrifice quality. It makes use of a high-pressure system to extract maximum flavour from each coffee capsule, and produces a professional-quality cafe-style crema. It also has a fast heat-up time so that your drinks are ready in minutes. It also comes with a large removable 1.2L water tank so you can make multiple cups before you need to refill.
Another great feature is the Infinissima's capability to brew hot and cold beverages. The temperature settings that can be adjusted allow users to select from a variety of drinks, including iced coffee and macarchiato with latte. It also has an in-cup heating plate that keeps your drink warm, preventing it from cooling too quickly. 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 features simple controls and a LCD screen which allows you to choose your beverage. It also has self-rising pod holders, which makes it easier to insert the capsules and then fill the water tank. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit that allow you to reuse used capsules. Infinissima capsules are a great choice to consider if you're looking for a reliable machine in Qatar.