Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?

If you're looking for quick easy, convenient brews that are simple and easy to clean up, a pod maker is impossible to beat. These machines are sleek and are available in all shapes and sizes, from minis that can fit on your worktop to larger models with an ice cream maker for cappuccinos.

This more affordable option from Nespresso's Vertuo line features different shaped capsules as opposed to 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

The VertuoPlus line of capsule coffee machines is one of Nespresso's top-of-the-line options. This particular model makes use of Centrifusion technology to brew the most perfect cup of espresso or long coffee by pressing the button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve optimal results in the cup. It eliminates the need to manually adjust anything and only uses the precise amount of coffee, water and energy needed to make each drink's exact size.

The machine uses centrifugal force to spin the capsules at 7,000 revs per minute, blending ground coffee with water and producing a rich, velvety crema. This process helps to evenly fill each capsule with water before extraction, which is important for a flavorful cup of coffee. The machine also has a huge 40-ounce water tank so you can make many cups of coffee or espresso without having to empty it. After brewing, the machine automatically eliminates the capsule used and puts it inside a container that can be easily removed and recycling.

The machine doesn't come with a milk maker built in, but it can be used in conjunction with Nespresso Aeroccino3 for cappuccinos or lattes. It comes in 13 different colours and is slim and tall, with a height of less than 9 inches. This makes it easy to put on your kitchen counter. Its top opens automatically, making it easy to insert capsules if you have limited dexterity.

The Nespresso coffee maker is currently on Amazon for $119. It's a great deal for a machine which can produce the best delonghi coffee machine cup of espresso or long coffee. It comes with 10 Melozio (intensity 6), and 10 Stormio (intensity 8). This allows you to experiment with different blends.

2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

A stylish capsule coffee machine that is simple to use and won't cost you a fortune. It's available in cream or black and can create five milk-based drinks with a flick of a button. These include macchiato cappuccino as well as large. It's not suitable for lattes or frothy drinks such as a standalone milk frother. It also has a small water tank, and a limited number of compatible capsules, which means it may be better for black or espresso drinkers who aren't afraid of refilling and emptying the machine.

The smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines, Jolie is the perfect choice for those who wish to enjoy a great tasting, high-quality Italian coffee at home without the hassle and expense of traditional coffee makers. It is easy to use and comes with a single backlit stop&go that allows you to select the amount of coffee you want or hot cocoa. Its compact design and elegant size make it a great accessory to any room.

We tested the coffee only version. There is also a Jolie and Milk machine for PS169 that comes with milk frothers if you like lattes and milky drinks. The machine is easy to clean using a an uncluttered water tank with MIN/MAX indicator lights and the removable capsule tray is washable under running water. It is shut down by itself after nine minutes of no activity and the power cable can be separated from the machine, making it easier to move.

As with many capsule machines it is important to clean your Jolie on a regular basis by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. Periodic descaling will help it perform at its best bean to cup coffee machine under £200 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 among the few we've tested that can make rich, creamy lattes and even create the thin layer of foam that adds an extra something to your drinks. Pound for pound, it's a great value for coffee makers for home use especially when you consider it's cheaper than professional machines.

Contrary to other semi-automatic models we looked at This is a real espresso maker that has an integrated grinder and a temperature control with PID and a steam wand to make milk-based beverages. It has a bit of an arduous learning curve than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic. However, it is still accessible to those who wish to master an excellent espresso and latte art.

The most prominent feature of this model is the oversized bean to cup coffee machine best hopper that has been constructed with an airtight seal that will preserve the freshness and flavor. It is also easy to take out and refill, which is an important benefit. The tamper can be removed too, which can be useful if you prefer to manually tap your shots or using a double-wall filter.

Other notable features include a rapid heating thermoblock, adjustable grind settings and dose control, as well as drip tray that keeps beans out of your water. It's also simple to clean and use, however it's not as durable as other models. The biggest issue is its loudness during brewing. However, this is likely to diminish as you get more comfortable with it.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini

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

The Jolie Mini is a simple pod machine that doesn't have all the bells and whistles. It heats quickly and is easy to use. It's a great option for those who want to experiment with different flavors of capsules without having to shell out for a larger model.

Despite its size, the Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray, the container for capsules, and the water tank have an easy-to-read MIN/MAX indicator. It is dishwasher safe and dishwasher safe, allowing you to keep it as clean as possible. The manual provides instructions on how to descal it every three to four month.

This tiny machine is loved by users, who have given it 4.4 stars out of 5. The quiet operation and various options it offers are a particular highlight, as is the fact that the pods can be recycled or composted is highly appreciated. Some users had issues with the size of the capsule, but this was easily fixed.

You'll also find the power cord and plug, an instructional manual, a quick-guide an information sheet on warranty and a tester containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of the nine pods are roasts 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 clean 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 a coffee maker with the potential to revolutionize how you make coffee at home.

Our test team was impressed by the speed with the time it prepared coffee as well as the quality of the finished product. The sleek machine is simple to clean, while the capsule bin and waste tray are spacious enough to prevent a accumulation of used capsules. The A Modo Mio Mini also comes with a pack of 16 Dolce Vita hot chocolate capsules which coffee machines are best can be used as an instant treat without the need to make it separately.

This machine is perfect for milk-based coffee lovers and is designed to deliver the authentic espresso in every sip. Its clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode of each capsule, and then automatically adjusts settings to the best coffee machine bean-to-cup level for your chosen drink. You'll require a separate machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet in operation, which is a advantage for people who wake up early and have a busy family life.

It doesn't have as many customisable presets as the VertuoPlus however this might not be a problem for coffee purists who like to experiment until they come up with their ideal recipe. The 1.8-litre tank can be positioned in the rear or on one side of the machine depending on the space available. The used capsule drawer holds 13 large pods. Other features include the ability to queue your next cup while the machine heats up, as well alerts when you haven't filled the tank with water, or if the machine requires decaling.