The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
This machine is ideal for Nespresso lovers who want to go away from the tiny pods. It works with larger Vertuo capsules, reading the barcode to automatically adjust the settings to your drink's size.
It is able to save custom drinks to a button for super-speedy brewing, and offers ristretto, espresso and americano options. It also comes with a height-adjustable dripping tray and an energy-saving sleep setting.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new models to join the Nespresso range in the year 2017. It's narrower than other models, allowing it to be able to fit into larger spaces. It's available in a variety of colors.
The machine runs the latest version of Nespresso's pod-based technology. Vertuo Plus spins the capsule at up to 7000rpm instead piercing it to pump hot water into it. The capsule mixes ground coffee and water to create the brew. The capsule then drips out of a central hole and through 18 smaller holes, creating a rich crema on your drink. The machine can make espresso as well as longer lungo-style drinks.
It reads the barcode at the bottom of each capsule to customize its blending method for each. This is why you can't use capsules from other brands with the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's capsules - only Nespresso's own contain the barcode.
It's simple to operate, using just one button across the top. Simply press the silver lever in the front, and it will raise to reveal a place for your chosen pod. Drop it in place and press the single button to begin the brewing.
The machine has a 40-ounce water reservoir 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 is a neat and reliable machine with minimal maintenance. However, if you wish to avoid creating a lot of waste with this type of system, be sure to set up an effective recycling plan for the used pods.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine by Lavazza will add a touch of elegance to your coffee table. Its clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of the capsule you choose and then dispenses exactly the right amount water to create your perfect cup. It's available in a variety of colors and makes up to five different sizes hot or iced drinks, including gran lungo and double espresso.
This machine is a little more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, as it offers the option to heat and dispense milk. It's still more secure than a home espresso machine and is a great choice for those who don't feel confident using a manual coffeemaker. 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. There's a large capsule bin too, which will hold ten used capsules at one time.
Like the Vertuo Plus, it's simple to use and can be heated within a matter of minutes. It's also extremely quiet and consumes only a small amount of energy, which makes it a good choice for your electric costs.
This model comes with one disadvantage that it is only compatible with Lavazza capsules and not the Nespresso range. This might not be a problem for a lot of people, but it could be a concern for those who like to switch between brands. If you choose to purchase this machine, be sure you purchase a set of 100 reusable capsules when you purchase. They aren't expensive, but you'll save money over the long term because they are cheaper than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
A fully automatic machine that's very easy to use. It features a wide cup platform that can be positioned at different heights to accommodate tall glasses as well as small espresso cups, and it's easy to pick your preferred settings thanks to numbered buttons. It can also be used to store four different variations of your own, making this a good option for couples and families with different tastes. The machine is energy efficient and there's a handy indicator to let you know when the water tank is full or when descaling is required (which requires the use of a service disc, which is hidden in a slot with the instruction).
Like all Tassimo system machines, it's designed to work with the company's branded barcoded T-Discs which include everything from coffee, tea and hot chocolate to cold drinks and creamy milk. Intellibrew technology automatically detects the type and adjusts the brewing time, temperature, and strength to meet. This helps you avoid accidentally changing settings 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 great range of flavours to choose from, with more than 50 brands that are famous, including Costa favorites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can make lattes, cappuccinos and even frosty Americanos.
It is easy to clean and comes with a standby mode which saves energy. The water tank can be easily removed and can be filled with fresh tap 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 let you 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 the latest models. The slim, sleek body takes up less space on a countertop than larger models, while its simple controls make it easy to operate. With the push of a single button, you can choose between espresso and lungo. A cup holder that is removable allows you to use standard cups, or even mugs.
The Jolie is not expensive, but it's a good option for anyone looking for a basic capsule espresso maker that makes quality espresso with minimum fuss. The Jolie has an excellent steam wand that allows you to add milk to create the perfect cappuccino. It's also one of the quietest we've tested, so it won’t disrupt sleep-ins with family members in the early morning.
SMEG is known for its fashionable kitchen appliances, and this retro-looking pod coffee maker is no different (choose from red, cream or black). It's compact enough to fit between other appliances on your counter top but doesn't skimp on functionality. A single push of a button can make an espresso in a short amount or a longer lungo, while its energy saving mode is put into standby after two minutes of inactivity or seven days of no use.
If you're a fan the 1950s style of SMEG or want the ability to customize your coffee more than the major brands, the Jolie is a good option to consider. It comes with an app that has more barista-friendly recipes as well as a Bloom & Brew setting that pre-wets and infuses the capsule to create a better cup and other settings let you control the amount of water that is used and alter the temperature of your coffee and pressure.
5. Infinissima
If you're looking for a quick cup of coffee to start your day or a luxurious morning espresso, the Infinissima is the perfect choice. It's a sleek, automatic capsule machine that's easy to use and offers an array of beverage options. It's a distinctive design that's inspired by the infinity sign and comes with an triangular water tank as well as a an globular pod holder.
Although the Infinissima's unique exterior is cool but it doesn't sacrifice quality. It uses a high pressure system to extract maximum flavor from each capsule coffee and produces professional quality crema that resembles cafes. It has a rapid heating time, meaning you can have your drinks ready in a matter of minutes. It also has a huge, removable 1.2L water tank, so you can make several cups without having to refill.
Another excellent feature is Infinissima's capability to brew hot and cold beverages. The temperature settings that can be adjusted allow you to choose from a variety of beverages such as iced coffee and macarchiato latte. It also has the cup heating plate, which keeps your drink warm, preventing it from cooling down too quickly. The Infinissima comes with a timer that will turn off the machine after a certain amount of time. This helps to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima has simple controls and a LCD screen that allows you to select your beverage. It also has self-rising pod holders, which makes it easier to put the capsules in and fill the tank with water. Plus, it comes with a handy cleaning kit as well as a filter that can be coffee machines with pods reused to reuse the capsules you have used. Infinissima capsules are a great option when you're looking for a top-quality machine in Qatar.