11 Strategies To Refresh Your Best Capsule Coffee Machine

Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?

When it comes to quick and convenient drinks that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod maker is impossible to beat. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, from minis to large models with frothier cappuccinos.

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

1. Nespresso VertuoPlus

VertuoPlus capsule coffee machines are one of Nespresso's more expensive options. This particular model utilizes Centrifusion technology to make the best coffee machine under £100 cup of long or espresso with the push of one button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to ensure the best small coffee machine results in the cup. It does away with the necessity to manually adjust everything and only uses the exact amount of water, coffee and energy needed for each capsule's unique drink size.

The machine makes use of centrifugal forces to spin capsules at 7,000 revolutions per minute. The machine blends ground coffee with water, producing a rich and velvety crema. This helps evenly coat each capsule with water prior to extraction, which is important for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine also has a large 40-ounce water tank meaning you can make many cups of espresso or coffee before having to empty it. The machine will automatically empty the capsule that has been used after brewing and put it in a container, which can be easily removed and reused.

This machine does not come with a milk frother built into it, but it can be used with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It's available in 13 colors and has an incredibly slim, tall body less than 9 inches in width, which allows it to be easily placed on the kitchen counter. The top of the capsule holder opens automatically to make it easier for people who have difficulty inserting capsules.

The Nespresso coffee maker is currently available on Amazon for $119, which is a great price for a machine that can make the most delicious cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6), and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This lets you to play around with different combinations.

2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

This sleek capsule coffee maker is easy to use and won't cost the earth. It comes in either black or cream, and can make five milk-based drinks with a touch of a switch. These include macchiato cappuccino as well as large. It's not suited to lattes or frothy drinks like a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively tiny water tank and limited choice of compatible capsules. So it might be more for black or espresso drinkers who don't mind regularly refilling and emptying the machine.

The tiniest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is the perfect choice for those who wish to enjoy great-tasting, quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle or expense of traditional coffee makers. It's easy to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go for selecting the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its small size and stylish design make it the perfect addition to any room.

We tested the coffee-only version. There's also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 which includes milk frothers if you like lattes and milky drinks. The machine is easy to clean thanks to a a clear water tank with MIN/MAX indicator lights and a removable capsule tray that is washable under running water. It is shut down by itself after nine minutes of inactivity and the power cable can be detached from the machine, making it easier to move.

Like other capsule machines, you should clean your Jolie regularly. Clean and empty the coffee reservoir and filter, and also the water container. Regular descaling can help it keep its performance at its peak for a long time.

3. Breville BES870XL

The Breville Barista Express makes a excellent choice for those who want a real espresso machine at home. It's also among the few machines that we tested that could make rich lattes that are creamy and smooth and the fine layer of foam that adds an extra dimension to your beverages. Pound for pound, it's an excellent value as far as home coffee makers go, especially when you consider that it's less expensive than professional-level machines.

Contrary to other semi-automatic models we reviewed, this is a true espresso maker that has a built-in grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand for milk-based drinks. That means that it has a little bit more of an learning curve than Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still attainable for those looking bean to cup coffee machine best learn to pull an amazing shot and create the perfect latte at home.

The hopper is a large airtight design that will preserve freshness and taste. It is also simple to take out and refill, which is an important benefit. The tamper can also be removed which is useful for those who want to manually tamp shots or use a double-wall filter.

Other important features include a rapid-heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings, dose control and a drip tray which keeps the beans from your water. It's also simple to use and clean however it's not the most durable product available. The biggest drawback is that it can be loud when brewing, but the sound should decrease as you become familiar with it.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini is a small, quiet pod coffee machine that is ideal for small spaces. It's the smallest of the brand's machines and is the cheapest capsule coffee maker (although you can still find its predecessors, like the Lavazza Tiny Mini, on Amazon).

The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't come with all the bells and whistles. It heats quickly and is easy to use. It's a great option for those looking to taste different flavors without having to buy an expensive model.

The Jolie Mini is very easy to clean, regardless of its size. The drip tray and capsule container can be removed and the water tank is equipped with a handy indicator for MIN/MAX. It's also dishwasher-safe, so you can keep it as hygienic as you can. The manual includes instructions on how to descal it every three to four month.

The users love this small machine and have given it a score of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. The quiet operation and flexible choices it offers are particularly noted, while the fact that the capsules can be recycled or composted is highly appreciated. There were some users who had issues with the capacity of the capsule However, this issue was easily solved.

Additionally, you'll find a power cord and plug, an instructional manual, a quick-guide, warranty information and a tester with nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roast, two are lungo, and two are decaffeinated. The remaining two are organic, meaning you'll have a wide selection to pick from for your next cup of coffee!

5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini

Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit in modern kitchens, thanks to its small size and clean lines. It is a coffee maker that has the potential to change the way you make coffee at home.

Our test team was awestruck by the speed and quality of the final product. The machine is easy to clean and the waste bin and capsule bins are big enough to prevent the buildup of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini comes with 16 Dolce Vita capsules, which can be used for an instant treat.

This machine is perfect for those who love milk-based beverages and want to provide a true espresso in every sip. Its ingenious automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule and automatically adjusts the settings to the ideal quality for the drink you choose. However, you'll need to add a separate milk machine if you intend to make cappuccinos and lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini operates quietly, which is ideal for those who wake up early or have a hectic family.

It's not as equipped with as many customisable presets as the VertuoPlus, but this may not be a problem for coffee purists who like to tweak until they find their perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be set in the rear or on one side of the machine, according to the space available. The used capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to store your next cup while the machine is heating up, and alerts when you haven't filled it up with water or if it requires descaling.