The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
If you're a lover of Nespresso but would like to step away from their tiny pods, look no further than this machine. It is compatible with larger Vertuo capsules, reading the barcode to automatically adjust settings for your chosen drink size.
It offers ristretto and espresso options, as well as the option of saving drinks that you have created. It also has a adjustable drip tray that can be adjusted in height and a sleep mode that saves energy.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines that came into the Nespresso line in 2017. It's narrower than other models, allowing it to fit into more space. It comes in more colours.
The machine uses the latest 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 of up to 7000rpm. The brew is made by mixing ground coffee with water. The capsule dribbles out of the smaller holes of 18 and through the central hole, giving your drink a more dense crema. The machine is able to make coffee and lungo-style drinks.
It reads a barcode on the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending method to each. You aren't able to mix capsules from other brands with Vertuo plus because only Nespresso capsules are barcode-encoded.
There's just one button to press across the top of the machine, and it's simple to use. Click the silver lever on the front to raise it up and reveal the space for your chosen pod. Drop it in place and press the single button to start brewing.
The machine comes with a 40-ounce reservoir of water and it automatically ejects capsules used up internally. It also has a warm up time of only 15-20 seconds and an energy efficient automatic shut off after nine minutes of inactivity. This is a neat, reliable and easy-to-use machine with low maintenance. But, if you want to minimize the production of waste using this kind of machine, be sure to create an effective recycling plan for the pods you have used.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine from Lavazza is a striking addition to your coffee area. Its innovative Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of the capsule of your choice and then dispensing exactly the right amount water to create your perfect cup. It is available in a variety of colors and comes in up to five different sizes, including double espresso.
The machine is a bit more sophisticated than Nespresso machines, as it has the ability to heat and dispense milk. However, it's still much more foolproof than a conventional home espresso maker and is an ideal choice for those who aren't comfortable with a manual coffee maker. The Jolie has a large chrome lever that opens and shuts the capsule slot, while a 0.9-litre water tank is positioned behind it. There's a large container for capsules as well, which can hold ten used capsules at a time.
It is easy to use, and can be heated in just a few minutes. It is also very quiet and requires very only a small amount of energy, which means you'll save money on your electricity bill.
The only downside to this model is that it only works with Lavazza's own capsules, rather than the range of Nespresso capsules. This isn't an issue for most people, but could be for those who like switching brands. If you decide to buy this machine, be sure to get 100 capsules that can be reused with your purchase. These capsules are not cheap, but they will save you money over time as they are less expensive than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
A fully automated machine that's very easy to use. It features a broad platform that can be adjusted to various heights for tall glasses or smaller espresso cups. The numbered buttons make it easy to pick your desired settings. You can also save four individual variations, making this a good choice for families and couples with different tastes. The machine is energy efficient and comes with a handy indicator that tells you when it's time to descaling (which requires an instruction disc that is tucked into a slot).
Like all Tassimo system machines it's designed to be compatible with the company's brand barcoded T-Discs, which contain everything from tea, coffee and hot chocolate to cold drinks and creamy milk. Intellibrew technology detects the type of drink and adjusts the time and temperature as well as the strength to suit. This stops you from altering settings that are not sensible like the strength of coffee with milk. It also ensures your drink tastes consistently good.
The My Way 2 has a great range of flavours to choose from, with more than 50 well-known brands including Costa favourites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can even make frothy lattes and cappuccinos, as well as stimulating Americanos and indulgent flat whites.
The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby feature and is easy to clean. The water tank can be easily removed and filled with fresh water. Contrary to other pod machines, it does not have a built-in mechanism for disposing of the old T Discs, but it has partnered with Podback to allow you to recycle them in a local program.
4. Jolie
Jolie is a small pod coffee machine on the market since just a few years. It is able to compete against newer models. Its slimline design occupies less counter space than larger machines, and its controls are simple to use. You can choose from lungo or espresso at the push of a button, and a removable cup holder lets you use standard cups or mugs too.
The Jolie isn't cheap, however it's a good option for those looking for a basic capsule espresso maker that makes quality espresso with minimum fuss. A handy steam wand is included that allows you to add milk for an espresso or cappuccino. It is also one of the quietest that we've tested, which means it won't disturb family sleep-ins in the early morning.
SMEG has a reputation for fashionable kitchen appliances and this retro-styled pod coffee machine is no exception (choose from cream, red or black). Compact enough to fit on the counter, but still functional. One press makes a short or long lungo. The energy saving mode is activated after two minutes and seven consecutive days of usage.
The Jolie is a great choice for those who like the retro style of SMEG or want to customize your coffee better than what the big brands can offer. 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 make a better cup while other settings let you regulate the amount of water used and also adjust the coffee's temperature and pressure.
5. Infinissima
The Infinissima is the perfect machine for those seeking a quick morning espresso or a cup of coffee that will fuel their day. It's a sleek and sophisticated capsule machine that's simple to use and offers many beverages to choose from. It's got a unique design 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.
Although the Infinissima's unique exterior is cool but it doesn't sacrifice quality. It uses a high pressure system to extract maximum flavour from each capsule of coffee, and also produces professional-quality crema that resembles cafes. It features a fast heating time, meaning your drinks will be ready in just a few minutes. It also comes with a large, removable water tank of 1.2L so you can make several cups without having to refill.
The Infinissima can also make cold and hot drinks. Its temperature settings are adjustable and can offer a wide variety of options, ranging from iced coffee to latte macchiato. It has a cup heating plate that keeps your drink warm, preventing it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima is equipped with a timer which will turn off the machine after a specified amount of time. This helps coffee machines with pods to improve energy efficiency.
The Infinissima features simple controls and a LCD screen that allows you to select your beverage. It also comes with self-rising pod holders, which makes it simpler to insert the capsules and fill the water tank. It also comes with a handy filter and cleaning kit that allow you to reuse capsules that have been used. If you're in search of a high-quality capsule coffee machine in Qatar, the Infinissima is a great choice.