The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a lover of Nespresso but want to step away from their tiny pods look no further than this machine. It uses larger Vertuo capsules and reads the barcodes of each capsule to automatically adjust the settings to the size of your drink you want.
It can save customised drinks to a single button for fast making, and also offers americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also has a adjustable drip tray with a height adjustment and sleep mode that saves energy.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines to join the Nespresso line in 2017. It's smaller than the other models, which allows it to be able to fit into larger 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 cutting it to release hot water into it. It mixes ground coffee with water to create an alcoholic drink. The capsule then drips through one central hole and out of 18 smaller holes, resulting in a thick crema on your drink. The machine can make both espresso and lungo-style drinks.
It scans the barcode on the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending process for each. This is why you can't use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's capsules - only Nespresso's own have the barcode.
There's a single button to press on the top of the machine, and it's simple to operate. Just press the silver lever in the front and it raises to reveal a place for your preferred pod. Drop it in place and press the single button to start making.
The machine comes with a 40-ounce water reservoir and it is able to automatically release capsules used up internally. It also has a heat up time of only 15-20 seconds and an energy-saving automatic shut-off after nine minutes of inactivity. This is a great, reliable and easy-to-use machine with very little maintenance. But, if you want to avoid creating a lot of waste using this kind of machine, be sure to set up an efficient recycling program for the pods you have used.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine by Lavazza can add a touch of class to your coffee area. The clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode on your chosen capsule to give you the precise amount of water you need for your perfect cup. It comes 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 pod machines, as it also offers the option of heating and dispense milk. It's still more fool-proof than a regular espresso machine and is a great choice for those who don't feel at ease using a manual espresso maker. The Jolie has a large chrome lever which opens and shuts the capsule slot, while the 0.9-litre water tank sits 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 extremely quiet in operation and requires very little energy, making it an excellent choice for electricity costs.
This model has only one drawback: it only works with Lavazza capsules and not the Nespresso range. This may not be a problem for a lot of people but it could be an issue for those who like to switch between brands. If you decide to buy this machine, be sure to buy 100 capsules that are reusable with the purchase. These capsules aren't cheap, but they will save you money over time as they are cheaper than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
A fully automated machine that is very simple to use. It uses a wide cup platform that can be placed at different heights, to fit tall glasses as well as small espresso cups. It's easy to pick your preferred settings thanks to the numbered buttons. This machine allows you to store four different variations. It's a great choice for families and couples with different tastes. The machine is energy efficient and features a handy indicator that informs you when it's time for descaling (which requires an instruction disc tucked in the slot).
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, hot chocolate, and even cool, frothy milk. Intellibrew technology automatically detects the type of drink and adjusts the time as well as temperature and strength to match. This stops you from accidentally adjusting unnatural settings, like changing the strength of a cup of coffee made with milk, and ensures that your drink tasting consistently perfect.
The My Way 2 offers many different flavors including Costa favorite Kenco, L'OR, and Cadbury's. You can make cappuccinos, lattes and even frosty Americanos.
It is easy to clean and has a standby mode that saves energy. Its water tank is easy to remove and is filled with fresh tap water. It does not have an integrated mechanism for disposing of old T Discs. Instead it has partnered with Podback, a recycling company, to allow you to recycle the discs with capsule coffee maker an online program.
4. Jolie
A diminutive pod coffee machine that's been in the market for a few years, Jolie stands up well against newer models. Its small, slimline body takes up less space on the countertop than many larger machines, while its simple controls make it simple to use. You can select espresso or lungo by pressing an arrow and a movable cup holder allows you to use standard cups and mugs as well.
The Jolie is not inexpensive, but it's a great option for those looking for a basic capsule espresso maker that makes excellent espresso with the least amount of effort. The Jolie includes an easy steam wand that allows you to add milk to create a cappuccino. It's also one of the quietest machines we've seen which means it won't disturb families with early morning sleep-ins.
SMEG is well-known for its stylish kitchen equipment and this retro-styled coffee pod machine isn't different (choose between black, cream or red). Compact enough to fit on the counter, yet still functional. One press of a button brews either a shorter espresso or a longer lungo, while its energy saving mode switches to standby after two minutes of inactivity or seven days of inactivity.
The Jolie is a great choice if you like the retro style of SMEG or you want to personalize your coffee to be better than the big brands can offer. It comes with a Bloom & Brew feature that pre-wets the capsule and adds flavor to it to make a better cup. Other settings allow you to adjust the amount of water you use and also adjust the temperature of the coffee and adjust the pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the ideal machine for those looking for an espresso in the morning or an espresso that will fuel their day. It's an automated capsule machine with a sleek appearance that is simple to use. It's a distinctive design that's inspired by the infinity sign and comes with a triangular water tank and an globular pod holder.
The Infinissima has a unique exterior, but it does not sacrifice quality. It makes use of an advanced system of high-pressure to extract maximum flavour from each coffee capsule, and produces a professional-quality cafe-style crema. It also has a quick heating process so that your drinks are ready in minutes. It also comes with a large removable water tank that measures 1.2L so you can prepare several cups without having to refill.
The Infinissima can also brew hot and cold drinks. Its temperature settings are adjustable and can provide you with a variety of choices, from iced coffee to a macchiato latte. It also has an insulated cup warming plate to keep your drink warm and prevent it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima comes with a timer that will turn off the machine after a certain amount of time. This promotes energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is easy to use, with simple controls and a clear LCD that lets you choose your beverage options. It also includes a self-rising bottle holder that makes it easy to insert capsules and fill the water tank. In addition it comes with a convenient cleaning kit and a filter that is reusable, allowing you to reuse the capsules you have used. Infinissima capsule coffee machines are a great option if you're searching for a good machine in Qatar.