Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?

A pod machine is a great option for quick, convenient coffee drinks. They are also easy to clean and easy to use. These machines are sleek and come in all sizes and shapes, from minis that can be tucked away on your kitchen counter to larger models with an ice cream maker for cappuccinos.

This affordable option from Nespresso’s Vertuo range comes with different shaped capsules that are different to the standard Espresso pod. You can choose among five brewing options: Espresso, Double Espresso Gran Lungo Mug, Extra Large Alto.

1. Nespresso VertuoPlus

The VertuoPlus line of capsule coffee machines is one of Nespresso's top-of-the-line options. This model uses Centrifusion to create a perfect cup of espresso or long coffee at the touch of the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts the extraction settings to get the best commercial coffee machine results in the cup. This means that you don't need to set everything manually and eliminates unnecessary waste by using only the precise amount of energy, water and coffee needed for each specific capsule size.

The machine utilizes centrifugal force to spin capsules at 7,000 turns per minute. This blends ground coffee with water, creating a rich and velvety crema. This helps to evenly coat each capsule with water prior to extraction, which is crucial for a flavorful coffee. The machine is equipped with a 40-ounce tank of water which means you can make a large amount of coffee or espresso before having to empty it. After brewing, the machine automatically eliminates the capsule used and places it in an internal container that can be easily removed and recycling.

This machine does not have an inbuilt milk frother however, it can be used combination with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. It's available in 13 different colors and has an incredibly slim, tall body less than 9 inches in width, which allows it to be easily placed on your kitchen countertop. The top of the holder opens automatically, making it easier for those who aren't able to insert capsules.

The Nespresso coffee maker is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great price for a machine that can create the finest cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with a starter kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) which allows you to experiment with the blends.

2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

This stylish capsule coffee maker is simple to use and won't cost you a fortune. It comes in black or cream and can make five milk-based recipes by pressing the button, including cappuccino large and latte macchiato. It's not suited to lattes or drinks that are frothy like a standalone milk frother. It has a small water tank, and only a small selection of compatible capsules. This makes it more suitable for black or espresso coffee drinkers who want to refill and empty the machine frequently.

The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is perfect for those who want to enjoy delicious, premium Italian coffee at home without the hassle or expense of traditional coffee makers. It's simple to use, with just one backlit stop&go button to select the desired amount of coffee or hot chocolate, and can be operated in a quiet manner. Its compact design and elegant size make it a perfect design for any interior.

We tried the coffee only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169, which comes with milk frothers if you like lattes and milky drinks. The machine is easy to clean with an uncluttered water tank that has MIN/MAX indicator lights and the removable capsule tray can be cleaned in running water. It shuts down automatically after nine minutes of no activity and the power cable can be detached from the machine, making it easy to move.

Like other capsule machines, it's essential to clean your Jolie on a regular basis by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. De-scaling it regularly will ensure that it's performing at its best coffee machine bean to cup.

3. Breville BES870XL

The Breville Barista Express is a top choice for espresso lovers looking for an at-home real espresso machine. It's one of the few we've tested that makes rich, creamy lattes and even produce the thin layer foam that adds an more flavor to your drinks. Pound for pound it's also an excellent value for the money as far as coffee makers for the home, especially when you consider that it's cheaper than professional machines.

This is a true espresso machine, unlike some semi-automatic models we reviewed. It has a built-in steam wand and PID temperature control for milk-based drinks. This means it has a little bit more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic, or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still attainable for those who want to master the art of pulling a great shot and make latte art at home.

The most notable feature of this model is the large bean hopper that has been constructed with an airtight seal that will preserve freshness and taste. It is also easy to remove and refill, which we believe is an advantage. The tamper can also be removed, which coffee machine is best is helpful if you want to manually tamp shots or use a double-wall filters.

Other noteworthy features include a quick heating thermoblock as well as adjustable grind settings and dose control, and a drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, however it's not as durable as some other models. Its greatest disadvantage is that it can be noisy when it's brewing, but the sound should diminish as you get familiar with it.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee machine is small and quiet, making it perfect for small spaces. It's the smaller of the brands machines and is the most affordable capsule coffee maker (although you can still find its predecessors, like the Lavazza Tiny Mini, on Amazon).

The Jolie Mini doesn't have the additional bells and whistles of the other machines in this list However, it does everything a basic pod machine should do. It heats up quickly and is easy to use. It's a great option for those who wish to taste different flavors without the need to purchase an expensive model.

The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean despite its size. The drip tray and capsule container can be taken out, and the water tank has a handy indicator for MIN/MAX. It's also dishwasher-safe, so you can keep it as hygienic as possible. It is recommended to descal every three to four months, and the instructions for doing so are in the manual.

This little machine is loved by users who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The quiet operation and the flexible choices it offers are particularly appreciated, and the fact that the pods can be recycled or composted is appreciated. Some users had issues with the capacity of the capsule container however this was easily resolved.

There's also a power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide a warranty sheet and a tester containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of them are roasted varieties, while two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of these are organic, meaning you'll have a variety of options to choose from for your next cup!

5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini

With its sleek lines and compact size with its sleek lines and compact size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit into modern kitchens. It is able to revolutionize the way you prepare coffee at home, and is available at a very affordable cost.

Our test team was impressed by the speed with which it made the coffee and the quality of the finished product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin as well as capsule bins are large enough to prevent the buildup of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules that can be used to make an instant treat without the need to brew it separately.

This machine is ideal for milk-based coffee lovers and aims to provide an authentic espresso with each sip. The machine's automatic brewing system is so precise that it scans each capsule barcode and adjusts the settings to the right level for the beverage you choose. You will need a separate machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet in operation which is a great advantage for early risers and those with busy families.

The VertuoPlus has more presets, however it isn't as customizable. This might not be an issue for coffee lovers that prefer to experiment until they find the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be positioned in the rear or on one side of the machine, depending on the available space. The used capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the option to hold your next drink while the machine heats up as well as alerts when you haven't refilled the water tank or if the machine needs decaling.