Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?

When it comes to quick easy, convenient brews that are easy to clean up, a pod maker is difficult to beat. These machines are sleek and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, from minis that can fit on your worktop to larger models that include a frothier for cappuccinos.

This more affordable alternative from Nespresso's Vertuo line uses different shaped capsules than the standard Espresso pod, and allows you to select from five different sizes for brewing: Espresso, Double Espresso, Gran Lungo, Mug and Extra Large Alto.

1. Nespresso VertuoPlus

VertuoPlus capsule coffee machines are one of Nespresso’s higher-end options. This model uses Centrifusion to make the perfect cup of espresso or long-lasting cup of coffee at the push of a button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to get the best coffee machine for cappuccino results in the cup. This means you don't have to set everything manually and it reduces waste by only using the exact amount of water, energy and coffee needed for each specific capsule size.

The machine uses centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 turns per minute. The machine blends ground coffee with water, creating an extremely smooth and thick crema. The process also helps evenly coat the capsule with water prior to extraction this is an essential aspect in making a tasty cup of coffee. The machine also has a large, 40-ounce water tank, which means you can make a lot of cups of coffee or espresso without having to empty it. After the brewing process is complete, the machine ejects the used capsule and then puts it inside a container that can be easily removed and recycling.

This machine does not come with a built-in milk frother into it, but it can be used in conjunction with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for lattes or cappuccinos. It's available in 13 different colors and features an incredibly slim, tall body less than 9 inches wide, which makes it easy to place on your kitchen countertop. Its top opens automatically, making it easier to insert capsules even if you're not able to do it manually.

This Nespresso coffee maker is currently available on Amazon for $119 it's a great price for a machine that's capable of producing the Best filter coffee machine cup of long or espresso. It comes with an initial kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) to allow you to test the blends.

2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

A sleek capsule coffee machine that is simple to use and won't break the bank. It's available in black or cream, and can make five milk-based drinks with just a flick of a button. This includes cappuccino macchiato and large. It's not suited to lattes or frothy drinks such as a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively small water tank, and a limited choice of compatible capsules, so it might be more for black or espresso drinkers who aren't afraid of refilling and emptying the machine.

The tiniest and most quiet of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is ideal for those who wish to enjoy a great tasting, high-quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle or expense of traditional coffee makers. It is easy to use, with just one stop&go button with a backlight to select the desired amount of coffee or hot chocolate, and can be used in silence. Its slim design and stylish dimensions make it an ideal accessory to any room.

We tried the coffee-only model of the machine - there is also a Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that comes with milk-frothers if you're lover of milk-based drinks. It's easy to keep clean with clear plastic water tank, with MIN/MAX indicators and an open capsule drawer that can be rinsed under running water. It shuts off automatically after 9 minutes and the power cable can be removed from the machine.

As with many capsule machines it's important to clean your Jolie regularly by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. Descaling it periodically will keep it performing optimally.

3. Breville BES870XL

The Breville Barista Express is a top choice for espresso lovers looking for an at-home, real espresso machine. It's also among the few machines we tested that can produce rich lattes that are creamy as well as the thin layer of foam that can add a little something extra to your drinks. Pound for pound, it's an excellent value for home coffee makers go particularly when you consider that it's less expensive than professional-level machines.

Contrary to other semi-automatic models we looked at it's a real espresso maker with an integrated grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand to make milk-based beverages. This means it has a bit more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still within reach for those who want to master how to pull a perfect shot and create the perfect latte at home.

The hopper is a huge airtight design that will preserve freshness and flavor. It's also simple to remove for cleaning and refilling, a major plus in our book. The tamper is also removable as well, which can be useful if you prefer to manually stamp your shots or are using double-wall filters.

Other noteworthy features include a fast heating thermoblock as well as adjustable grind settings and dose control, and drip tray that keeps the beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, but it's not as durable as some other models. Its main drawback is loudness when brewing. However, this should be less noticeable as you get comfortable with it.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini coffee maker is compact and best coffee machine For office quiet, making it perfect for small spaces. It is the smallest machine within the Lavazza range, and also the most affordable capsule coffee maker. (You can still find the Lavazza Tiny on Amazon.)

The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that isn't equipped with all the bells and whistles. It is quick to heat up and simple to use. It's a great option for those looking to experiment with different flavors without the need to purchase an expensive model.

The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean, even considering its size. The drip tray, the container for capsules, and the water tank come with an easy-to-read MIN/MAX indicator. It's also dishwasher safe, so you can keep it as clean as you can. The manual contains instructions on how to decal it every three to four months.

This small machine is adored by its users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of five. The machine's quiet operation, the wide range of options it offers, and the possibility that the pods can be composted or recycled are all highly praised. Some users had issues with the size of the capsule, but this was easily rectified.

In the box there's the power cable and plug as well as an instruction manual, quick-guide warranty information and a tester box that contains nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted, and two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you'll have a variety of options for your next cup!

5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini

With its sleek lines and small 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 revolutionise the way you prepare coffee at home and is available at a very affordable cost.

Our test team was impressed with the speed and high-quality of the final product. The sleek machine is simple to clean, while the capsule bin and waste tray are large enough to prevent the accumulation of capsules that have been used. The A Modo Mio Mini comes with 16 Dolce Vita capsules, which can be used to make a quick treat.

This machine is ideal for milk-based coffee lovers and aims to give you an authentic espresso with each sip. Its ingenious automatic brewing system scans the barcode of each capsule, and then automatically adjusts settings to the best coffee machine For office level for your chosen drink. You'll need an additional machine for making lattes or cappuccinos. The A Modo Mio Mini operates at a low level, which is perfect for those who wake up early or have a busy family.

The VertuoPlus has more presets, however, it isn't as customizable. This may not be an issue for coffee purists who like to experiment until they find the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be positioned either at the back or to one side of the machine based on the size of your worktop, and the capsule drawer has room for 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to queue up your next cup while the machine is heating up, as well as alerts if you've not filled it with water or if it requires descaling.