The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017
This machine is ideal for Nespresso lovers who want to move away from the tiny capsules. It is compatible with larger Vertuo capsules, analyzing the barcode to automatically adjust settings for your chosen drink size.
It can save customised drinks to a button for speedy brewing, and offers americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also has a height-adjustable dripping tray and an energy-saving sleep setting.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is one of two new-style machines to join the Nespresso range in the year 2017. It is smaller than other models and is able to fit into smaller spaces. And it comes in a wider choice of colours too.
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 at speeds up to 7000rpm. This mixes ground coffee with water to make a brew. The capsule then drips down one central hole and out of 18 smaller holes, creating an extremely thick crema to your drink. The machine can make coffee and lungo-style drinks.
It scans a barcode that is located on the bottom of each capsule to tailor its blending process to suit each. It isn't possible to use capsules from other brands that use Vertuo plus because only Nespresso pods have a barcode.
There's just one button to press on the top of the machine and it's easy to operate. Press the silver lever at the front to raise it up and reveal the space for your chosen pod. Then drop it into place and press the single button to begin the brewing.
The machine comes with a 40-ounce reservoir of water and it automatically releases capsules used up from the inside. It has a heating period of 15 to 20 seconds, and an automatic shut-off after nine minutes. This is a great, reliable and easy-to-use machine with low maintenance. If you're looking to reduce the waste that is generated, make sure to have a good recycling system for used pods.
2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop
This compact machine from Lavazza is a stunning addition to your coffee bar. Its clever Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of your chosen capsule and dispenses exactly the right amount water to make your perfect cup. It comes in a variety of colors and comes in up to five different sizes including double espresso.
This machine is a little more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines as it also comes with the possibility of heating and dispensing milk. However, it's still a lot more idiot-proof than a traditional home espresso maker. It's an excellent choice for those who aren't confident with a manual espresso maker. The Jolie comes with a large lever which opens and closes the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be placed behind it. There's a large container for capsules too, which will hold ten used capsules at one time.
It is easy to use and is ready to heat up in a matter of minutes. It is also very quiet and uses less energy, meaning you'll save on your electricity bill.
The only drawback to this model is that it can only use Lavazza's own capsules rather than the range of Nespresso pods. This may not be an issue for the majority of people however it could be a problem for those who like switching brands. If you do decide to go with this machine, make sure that you get a pack of 100 reusable capsules when you purchase. They aren't expensive, but you'll save money in the end since they are cheaper than Nespresso pods.
3. Tassimo My Way
A fully automatic machine that is very simple to use. It has a wide platform that can be adjusted to various heights for tall glasses or small espresso cups. The numbered buttons make it easy to select the settings you want. This machine lets you keep four different options. It's a great option for families and couples with different preferences. The machine is energy efficient and comes with a handy indicator that lets you know when it's time to descale (which requires an instruction disc that is tucked into the slot).
It's designed to function, like all Tassimo systems using the company's brand barcoded T Discs, which contain everything from cold drinks coffee, tea and hot chocolate, to chilled, frothy milk. It comes with Intellibrew technology, which automatically recognizes the kind of drink and adjusts the timing, temperature and strength in accordance with the drink. This helps you avoid making changes that aren't logical like the strength of coffee brewed with milk. It also ensures that your drink is consistently delicious.
The My Way 2 offers an array of flavors including Costa favourites Kenco, L'OR, and Cadbury's. You can make lattes, cappuccinos and even frothy Americanos.
The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby mode and it's easy to clean. The water tank is easily removed and refilled with fresh water. It does not have a built-in mechanism to dispose of old T Discs. Instead, it has partnered with Podback, a recycling company, to allow you to recycle the discs with an on-site program.
4. Jolie
A diminutive pod coffee machine that's been on the market for a while, Jolie stands up well against newer models. Its small, slimline body takes up less space on countertops than many larger models and its simple controls make it simple to use. By pressing a single button, you can choose between espresso and lungo. A cup holder that can be removed allows you to use standard cups or even mugs.
It's not expensive, but the Jolie is a good choice for anyone after an easy capsule coffee maker that produces excellent espresso with minimum effort. A handy steam wand is included which allows you to add milk to the creation of a cappuccino or latte. It's also one of the quietest that we've tested, which means it won't interfere with sleep-ins for the family in the early morning.
SMEG is renowned for its stylish kitchen equipment and this retro-style coffee pod machine isn't different (choose between cream, black or red). It's compact enough to be able to fit in between other appliances on your counter but doesn't compromise on features. A single push of a button can make a short espresso or longer lungo, and its energy saving mode switches to standby after two minutes of inactivity or seven days of inactivity.
If you're a lover of the SMEG's 1950s-inspired design style or want the ability to make your coffee more customized than the major brands, the Jolie is worth a look. 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 make a better cup while other settings let you regulate the amount of water that is used and also adjust the coffee's temperature and pressure.
5. Infinissima
Whether you're in the market for a quick cup of coffee to fuel your day or an indulgent morning espresso, the Infinissima offers you everything. It's an automatic capsule machine with a sleek style that is easy to use. It's a distinctive design that is inspired by the infinity sign, and comes with an triangular water tank as well as a the globular pod holder.
The Infinissima has a quirky exterior however, it doesn't compromise on quality. It uses a high pressure system to extract the maximum flavor from each capsule of coffee, and also produces professional-quality cafe style crema. It's got a quick heating time, so your coffee will be ready in a matter of minutes. It also comes with a large removable water tank that measures 1.2L so you can make several cups without having to refill.
Another excellent feature is Infinissima's ability to brew both hot and cold beverages. The adjustable temperature settings allow you to choose from a range of drinks, including iced coffee and macarchiato latte. It has the cup heating plate, which keeps your drink warm, which prevents it from cooling down too fast. The Infinissima also has a timer function that shuts off the machine after a set period of inactivity, thus promoting energy efficiency.
The Infinissima features simple controls and an LCD display that allows you to select your beverage. It also includes a self-rising bottle holder that makes it easy to insert capsules and fill the water tank. It also comes with a convenient filter and cleaning kit that allows you to reuse used capsules. If you're in search of a high-quality capsule coffee maker in Qatar, the coffee capsule machine Infinissima is a great option.