The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017

If you're a big fan of Nespresso but would like to step away from their tiny capsules, look no further than this machine. It utilizes larger Vertuo capsules and reads the barcodes of each capsule to automatically adjust the settings to the desired size of drink.

It can save customised drinks to a single button for fast brewing, and offers americano, espresso and ristretto options. It also comes with an adjustable dripping tray that can be adjusted in height and an energy-saving sleep setting.

1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines to join the Nespresso line in the year 2017. It's smaller than other models and fits into smaller spaces. It comes in more colours.

The machine runs the latest version of Nespresso’s pod-based system. Vertuo Plus spins the capsule at up to 7000rpm instead puncturing it to pump hot water into it. This mixes ground coffee with water to make an alcoholic drink. The capsule dribbles out of the 18 smaller holes and through the central hole and gives your drink a thicker crema. The machine can make coffee machine and pods and lungo-style drinks.

It reads the barcode located at the bottom of every capsule to customize its blending method for each. This is why you can't use capsules from other brands with the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's capsules - only Nespresso's own contain the barcode.

It's simple to operate, with only one button on the top. Press the silver lever at the front to raise it and reveal the space to place your pod. Drop the pod into place and then press the single button to start the brewing.

The machine has an ounce reservoir of water that is 40 ounces and it automatically releases the used capsules internally. It also has a heat up time of just 15 to 20 seconds and an energy efficient automatic shut-off after nine minutes of inactivity. It's a stylish, reliable and easy-to-use machine with low maintenance. However, if you wish to minimize the production of waste from this kind of machine, be sure to establish a good recycling scheme for the pods you have used.

2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop

This compact machine from Lavazza can add a touch of elegance to your coffee table. Its innovative Centrifusion technology scans the barcode of the capsule you choose and then dispenses precisely the right amount of water to make the perfect cup. It's available in a variety of colors and comes in up five different sizes of hot or iced drinks, including gran lungo and double espresso.

This machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines as it also offers the option of heating and dispensing milk. It's still more reliable than a home espresso machine, and is a good option for those who don't feel confident using a manual coffeemaker. The Jolie comes with a large chrome lever that can be opened and closed by the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be put behind it. The large capsule bin can hold up to ten capsules.

Like the Vertuo Plus, it's also easy to use and warms up within a matter of minutes. It's also extremely quiet and consumes very little energy, making it an ideal choice for your electricity bills.

The model has one drawback: it only works with Lavazza capsules and not the Nespresso range. This isn't an issue for everyone, but could be for those who like changing brands. If you do decide to go with this machine, ensure that you get a package of 100 capsules that can be reused when you purchase. They're not cheap, but you will save money over the long term because they are cheaper than Nespresso capsules.

3. Tassimo My Way

A fully automatic machine that's very easy to use. It has a large cup platform that can be set at different heights to suit tall glasses and little espresso cups, and it's easy to choose your preferred settings using numerals on the buttons. This machine allows you to store four different versions. It's a great option for families and couples with different preferences. The machine is energy efficient and there's a handy indicator to let you know when the water tank is full or descaling is needed (which requires a service disc that's placed in a slot with the instruction).

It's designed to work as all Tassimo systems do using the company's brand barcoded T Discs which include everything from cold drinks coffee, tea hot chocolate, and even frothy, cold milk. It has Intellibrew technology, which automatically detects the kind of drink and adjusts the brewing time, temperature and strength in accordance with the drink. This helps you avoid accidentally changing settings that aren't sensible like the strength of coffee when you add milk. It also ensures your drink tastes consistently good.

The My Way 2 has a great range of flavours to choose from, featuring more than 50 well-known brands including Costa favorite brands, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can also make frothy lattes and cappuccinos and stimulating Americanos and luscious flat whites.

It is easy to clean and has a standby mode which saves energy. The water tank can be easily removed and can be filled with fresh tap water. Contrary to other pod machines, it doesn't come with a built-in mechanism for disposing of the old T discs, however it has partnered with Podback to let you recycle them using a local scheme.

4. Jolie

Jolie is a tiny pod coffee machine on the market since only a few years. It has a lot of advantages against the latest models. Its slim design takes up less counter space than larger machines and its controls are simple to operate. You can select espresso or lungo at the touch of an arrow and a movable cup holder allows you to use regular cups or mugs, too.

It's not cheap, but the Jolie is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy capsule coffee maker that produces high-quality espresso with little effort. A handy steam wand comes included too which allows you to add milk for a cappuccino or latte. It's also one of the quietest machines we've tried, so it will not disturb family sleep-ins.

SMEG has a reputation for stylish kitchen gear, and this retro-looking pod coffee maker is no different (choose from cream, red or black). It's small enough to be able to be able to fit in between other appliances on your counter top but doesn't skimp on functionality. One press of a button will make either a shorter espresso or a longer lungo, while its energy saving mode switches to standby after two minutes of inactivity or seven days of non-use.

The Jolie is a great choice if you like the design style of the 1950s from SMEG or you want to personalize your coffee better than what the top brands have to offer. It comes with a Bloom & Brew feature that pre-wets the capsule and adds flavor to it to make a better cup. Other settings let you adjust the amount of water you use and also adjust the temperature of the coffee pod machines and alter the pressure.

5. Infinissima

Whether you're looking for an instant cup of coffee to fuel your day, or a decadent morning espresso The Infinissima has you covered. It's a capsule machine that is automatic with a sleek appearance that is simple to use. It has a unique design inspired by the infinity sign, and comes with the triangular water tank, as well as a an globular pod coffee makers holder.

While the Infinissima's quirky exterior is cool however, 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's got a quick heating time, meaning your coffee will be ready in just a few minutes. It also comes with a large, removable water tank that measures 1.2L making it possible to make several cups without needing to refill.

Another fantastic feature is Infinissima's capacity to brew hot and cold drinks. Its adjustable temperature settings can provide you with a variety of options, ranging from iced coffee to latte macchiato. It also comes with the cup warming plate that can keep your beverage warm and stop it from cooling too quickly. The Infinissima is equipped with a timer which will turn off the machine after an amount of time. This promotes energy efficiency.

The Infinissima is a simple device to use, with simple controls and a clear LCD screen that lets you select your beverages. It also comes with a self-rising pod holder, which makes it simpler to put the capsules in 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. Infinissima capsule coffee makers are an excellent choice to consider if you're looking for a reliable machine in Qatar.