5 Best Capsule Coffee Machine Lessons From Professionals

The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017

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

It can save customised drinks to a button for super-speedy making, and also offers espresso, ristretto and americano options. It also has 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 that joined the Nespresso line in 2017. It is smaller than other models and fits into smaller spaces. And it's available in a variety of colours too.

The machine utilizes 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. The capsule coffee makers mixes ground coffee and water to make an alcoholic drink. The capsule then drips out of one central hole and out of 18 smaller holes, which gives an extremely thick crema to your drink. The machine can make espresso-style and lungo-style drinks.

It reads the barcode at the bottom of each capsule to customize its blending process for each. This is why you cannot use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's exclusive capsules come with the barcode.

There's only a single button to press across the top of the machine and it's a breeze to use. Just press the silver lever on the front and it'll raise to reveal a space for your chosen pod. Place the pod on top and press the single button for the brewing.

The machine comes with a 40-ounce reservoir of water and it is able to automatically release capsules used up internally. It also has a heating up time of about 15 seconds, and an energy-saving auto shut off after nine minutes of inactivity. It's a stylish device that is reliable and simple to use with low maintenance. If you want to avoid a lot waste, make sure that you have a proper recycling system for used pods.

2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop

This compact machine by Lavazza can bring a touch of class to your coffee corner. Its innovative Centrifusion technology scans the barcode on the capsule of your choice and then dispensing exactly the right amount water to create your perfect cup. It's available in a range of colors and makes up to five different sizes hot or iced drinks, including gran lungo and double espresso.

This machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod coffee makers machines in that it also comes with the option of heating and dispense milk. It's still more fool-proof than a regular espresso machine and is a great option for those who aren't confident using a manual coffeemaker. The Jolie has a large chrome lever which can be opened and closed the capsule slot, and the 0.9-litre water tank sits behind it. There's a large container for capsules that can hold ten capsules that you've used up.

Similar to the Vertuo Plus, it's easy to use and warms up within a matter of minutes. It's also quiet and requires very less energy, meaning you'll save money on your electric bill.

This model comes with one disadvantage It is that it only works with Lavazza capsules, not the Nespresso range. This might not be a problem for a lot of individuals, but it could be an issue for those who prefer to switch between brands. If you opt for this machine, make sure that you get a package of 100 capsules reusable with your purchase. They're not inexpensive, but they will save money in the long run as they tend to be cheaper than Nespresso capsules.

3. Tassimo My Way

A fully automatic machine that is very simple to use. It features a large platform that can be adjusted to different heights for tall glasses or smaller espresso cups. The buttons are numbered, making it easy to choose your desired settings. It can also be used to store four different variations of your own, making this a good option for families and couples with differing tastes. The machine is energy efficient and has an indicator that tells you when it's time for descaling (which requires an instruction disc that is tucked into the slot).

It's designed to function, as all Tassimo systems do with the company's branded barcoded T Discs, which contain everything from cold drinks, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, to frothy, cold milk. Intellibrew technology automatically detects the type of drink and adjusts the time and temperature as well as the strength to meet. This stops you from altering settings that are not sensible, such as 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 famous brands including Costa favourites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can even make frothy cappuccinos and lattes, as well as refreshing Americanos and luscious flat whites.

The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby mode and it's easy to clean. The water tank can be easily removed and filled with fresh water. Contrary to other pod machines, it doesn't have a built-in method to dispose of used T discs, however it has launched a partnership with Podback to enable you to recycle them in a local program.

4. Jolie

Jolie is a small pod coffee maker that has been on market since only a few years. It is able to compete against the latest models. Its slimline design takes up less counter space than larger machines and its controls are easy to operate. By pressing one button, you can choose between lungo and espresso. A removable cup holder allows you to use standard cups or mugs.

The Jolie isn't expensive, but it's a good option to anyone who is seeking a simple capsule espresso maker that makes high-quality espresso with minimal effort. A handy steam wand is included too, making it possible to add milk for a cappuccino or latte. It's also among the quietest machines we've tested and won't disturb families with early morning sleep-ins.

SMEG is renowned for its chic kitchen appliances and this retro-styled coffee pod and capsule coffee machines machine is no different (choose between black, cream or red). It's compact enough to fit between other appliances on your counter top but it doesn't sacrifice functionality. One press of a button can make either a shorter espresso or a longer lungo, and its energy saving mode switches to standby after two minutes of inactivity and seven days of inactivity.

If you're a lover of the 1950s style of SMEG or want the ability to customize your coffee more than the top brands, the Jolie is worth considering. It comes with an app that provides more barista recipes and a Bloom & Brew setting that prepares the capsule to be wet and infuses it to create a better cup while other settings let you regulate the amount of water used and adjust the coffee temperature and pressure.

5. Infinissima

The Infinissima is the ideal machine for those seeking an espresso in the morning or an espresso that can fuel their day. It's a capsule machine that is automatic with a sleek appearance that is easy to use. It has a unique design inspired by the infinity symbol. It includes the globular pod holder as well as a triangular water tank, which looks like modern art.

The Infinissima has a quirky exterior however it doesn't compromise on quality. It utilizes a high pressure system to extract the best flavour from each capsule of coffee, and also produces professional-quality cafe style crema. It's got a quick heating process, so you can have your drinks ready in just a few minutes. It also has a large, removable water tank of 1.2L so you can make several cups without having to refill.

The Infinissima can also brew cold and hot drinks. The temperature settings that can be adjusted allow you to select from a variety of drinks, including iced coffee and latte macarchiato. It comes with a cup heating plate that keeps your beverage warm, preventing it from cooling down too fast. The Infinissima comes with a timer that will turn off the machine after a certain amount of time. This promotes energy efficiency.

The Infinissima features simple controls and an LCD display which allows you to choose your beverage. It also has a self-rising capsule holder that makes it easy to insert capsules and fill the water tank. Plus, it comes with a handy cleaning kit and a reusable filter that allows you to reuse the capsules you have used. Infinissima capsule coffee machines are an excellent choice when you're looking for a good machine in Qatar.