The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a big fan of Nespresso but want to step away from their tiny capsules look no further than this machine. It is compatible with larger Vertuo capsules, analyzing the barcode to automatically adjust the settings to your drink's size.
It can save customised drinks to a button for super-speedy preparation, and includes americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also features a height-adjustable dripping tray and an energy-saving sleep setting.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines that came into the Nespresso line in 2017. It's smaller than the other models, which allows it to fit into more space. And it's available with a broader selection of colours too.
The machine is the most recent incarnation of Nespresso's pod-based coffee system. Instead of piercing the capsule to pump hot water through it, the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule around at speeds up to 7000rpm. It mixes ground coffee with water to create a brew. The capsule then drips through one central hole and through 18 smaller holes, which gives an extremely thick crema to your drink. The machine is able to make espresso-style and lungo-style drinks.
It scans a barcode that is located on the bottom of each capsule, allowing it to customize its blending technique for each. This is the reason you can't use capsules from other brands with the Vertuo Plus - only Nespresso's own pods have the barcode.
There's only a single button to press across the top of the machine, and it's simple to use. Simply press the silver lever at the front and it raises to reveal a space for your chosen pod. Then, drop it in the right spot and press the single button to begin making.
The machine comes with a 40-ounce reservoir of water and it automatically ejects the used capsules internally. It has a heating period of about 15 seconds and an automatic shut-off after nine minutes. The machine is simple to use, reliable, and requires minimum maintenance. If you're looking to eliminate the waste that is generated, make sure you have a reliable recycling system for your used pods.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine by Lavazza will add a touch of class to your coffee area. Its innovative Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of your chosen capsule and dispenses precisely the right amount of water to make your perfect cup. It comes in a variety of colors and comes in up five different sizes, including gran latte and double espresso.
The machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines in that it also comes with the possibility of heating and dispensing milk. However, it's still much more foolproof than a traditional home espresso maker and is a great option for those who don't feel comfortable with a manual coffee maker. The Jolie comes with a large lever which opens and closes the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be inserted behind it. There's a large capsule bin as well, which can hold ten of your used capsules at one time.
Like the Vertuo Plus, it's easy to use and warms up within a matter of minutes. It's also very quiet in operation and uses minimal energy, so it's an ideal choice for your energy bills.
This model has only one drawback It is that it only works with Lavazza capsules and not the Nespresso range. This may not be an issue for most people however it could be a problem for those who are interested in changing brands. If you opt for this machine, ensure that you get a package of 100 capsules reusable with your purchase. They're not expensive, but you'll save money over the long term because they are cheaper than Nespresso capsules.
3. Tassimo My Way
A fully automated machine that is very simple to use. It has a wide platform that can be adjusted to different heights for tall glasses or small espresso cups. The numbered buttons make it easy to choose the settings you want. You can also store four different variations of your own, making this a good choice for families and couples with differing preferences. The machine is energy-efficient and has an indicator that lets you know when the water tank is full or descaling is required (which requires a service disc that's tucked into a slot along with the instructions).
Like the other Tassimo system machines, it's designed to work with the company's branded barcoded T-Discs, which contain everything from tea, coffee and hot chocolate to cold drinks and frothy milk. It comes with Intellibrew technology, which automatically detects the kind of drink and adjusts the timing, temperature and strength according to the type of drink. This prevents you from accidentally changing settings that aren't logical like the strength of coffee brewed with milk. It also ensures your drink tastes consistently good.
The My Way 2 has an extensive selection of flavors to choose from, featuring more than 50 well-known brands including Costa favorites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can even make frothy cappuccinos and lattes, as well as stimulating Americanos and delicious flat whites.
The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby mode and it's easy to clean. Its water tank is easily removed and filled with fresh tap water. In contrast to other pod machines it doesn't have an integrated mechanism to dispose of used T Discs, but it has partnered with Podback to allow you to recycle them through an initiative in your area.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a small pod coffee machine that has been on the market since a few years. It holds its own against more modern models. Its slim, compact body occupies less space on a countertop than many larger models, while its simple controls make it easy to use. You can choose between espresso or lungo by pressing an arrow, and a removable cup holder allows you to use regular cups or mugs, too.
It's not expensive but the Jolie is a great choice for anyone looking for a basic capsule coffee maker that makes excellent espresso with minimum effort. The Jolie has an excellent steam wand which lets you add milk to create the perfect cappuccino. It's also one of the quietest that we've tested, which means it won't disturb family sleep-ins in the early morning.
SMEG is renowned for its chic kitchen appliances and this retro-styled coffee pod machine is no different (choose between black, cream or red). It's small enough to be able to be able to fit in between other appliances on your counter but it doesn't sacrifice functionality. One button press brews either the long or short lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven days of no use.
The Jolie is a great option if you like the 1950s design aesthetic of SMEG or you want to personalize your coffee to be better than the major brands provide. It comes with an app that provides more barista recipes as well as a Bloom & Brew setting that prepares the capsule to be wet and infuses it to create a better cup while other settings let you regulate the amount of water you use and adjust the coffee temperature and pressure.
5. Infinissima
If you're looking for an easy cup of coffee to fuel your day or a luxurious morning espresso, the Infinissima offers you everything. It's a sleek and sophisticated capsule machine that is easy to use and provides various beverage options. Its unique design is inspired by the infinity symbol and includes the globular pod holder as well as a triangular water tank, which makes it look like modern art.
The Infinissima's quirky design is cool, it doesn't compromise on quality. It makes use of an advanced system of high-pressure to extract the maximum flavor from each coffee capsule, and produces professional-quality cafe style crema. It also has a rapid heating process so that your drinks are ready in just a few minutes. It also comes with a large, removable water tank that measures 1.2L making it possible to prepare several cups without having to refill.
The Infinissima can also brew cold and hot drinks. Its temperature settings are adjustable and can offer a wide variety of choices, including iced coffee and macchiato latte. It also has the cup warming plate that can keep capsule coffee maker your drink warm and keep it from cooling too quickly. The Infinissima has a timer that will shut down the machine after a certain amount of time. This helps to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima is easy to use, with easy controls and a clear LCD display which lets you select your beverages. It also has a self-rising capsule holder that makes it easy to add capsules and refill the water tank. In addition it comes with a handy cleaning kit as well as a filter that can be reused to reuse the capsules you have used. Infinissima capsule coffee machines are an excellent choice to consider if you're looking for a reliable machine in Qatar.