Which is the Best Pod Coffee Machine?

A pod machine is the best coffee machine for latte choice for quick, easy coffee drinks. They are also easy to clean and easy to use. These sleek machines are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, from minis to large models with frothier options for cappuccinos.

This more affordable option from Nespresso's Vertuo line features different shaped capsules as opposed to the standard Espresso pod, and allows you to 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 among Nespresso’s higher-end options. This particular model utilizes Centrifusion technology to brew the most perfect cup of long or espresso by pressing a button. The barcode reader automatically adjusts extraction settings to achieve optimal results in the cup. This means you don't have to set anything manually and eliminates waste by using only the precise amount of water, energy and coffee needed for each specific capsule size.

The machine makes use of centrifugal force to spin the capsules at 7,000 revs per minute, blending ground coffee with water and producing a thick, velvety crema. This process also helps evenly saturate the capsule with water prior to extraction which is a crucial element in obtaining a delicious cup of coffee. The machine comes with a 40-ounce tank of water, which means you can make plenty of espresso or coffee without having to empty it. The machine will automatically empty the used capsule after brewing, and then place it in a container to be easily removed and reused.

The machine doesn't have an inbuilt milk frother but it can be used combination with Nespresso's Aeroccino3 milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. It's available in 13 colors and features a slim, tall frame less than 9 inches in width, which allows it to be easily placed on your kitchen countertop. The top of the cabinet opens automatically, making it easy to insert capsules if you have limited dexterity.

This Nespresso coffee maker is available on Amazon for $119. It's a great deal for a machine which can make the most delicious cup of long coffee or espresso. It comes with a starter kit that includes 10 Melozio capsules (intensity 6) and 10 Stormio capsules (intensity 8) to allow you to experiment with the blends.

2. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

This stylish capsule coffee maker is easy to use and won't cost you the earth. It's available in cream or black and can make five milk-based recipes by pressing the button such as cappuccino large and latte macchiato. It's not suitable for lattes or frothy drinks like a standalone milk frother. It also has a relatively small water tank, and a limited number of compatible capsules, so it may be better for black or espresso drinkers who don't mind regularly refilling and emptying the machine.

Jolie, the smallest and quietest of Lavazza's A Modo Mio machines is ideal for those who love quality Italian coffee without the hassle of a traditional machine. It is simple to use, with just one backlit stop&go to select the desired amount of coffee or hot cocoa. Its slim design and stylish dimensions make it an ideal accessory to any room.

We tried the coffee-only version of the machine - there is also a Jolie and Milk model for PS169 that comes with milk-frother, if you're a fan of milk-based 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 can be washed under running water. It is shut down automatically after 9 minutes and the power cable can easily be removed from the machine.

Like other capsule machines, it is important to clean your Jolie regularly by emptying and cleaning the coffee reservoir and filter as well as the water tank. De-scaling it regularly will keep it performing at its best budget espresso machine (wathpussy.com's website).

3. Breville BES870XL

The Breville Barista Express makes a excellent choice for those who are looking for an espresso machine that is at home. It's among the few we've tested that makes rich, creamy lattes and even produce the thin layer foam that adds an additional flavor to your drink. It's also a great deal for home coffee makers, especially when you consider that it's less expensive than professional machines.

Contrary to other semi-automatic models we looked at, this is a true espresso maker with an integrated grinder and a temperature control with PID and a steam wand that can be used for milk-based beverages. That means that it has some more of an education curve than the Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic or Nespresso VertuoPlus, but it's still attainable for those who want to master the art of pulling an amazing shot and create latte art at home.

The hopper is a large, best Budget espresso machine airtight design that preserves freshness and taste. It's also easy to remove for cleaning and refilling, a major plus in our book. The tamper can also be removed which is a great option when you need to manually tamp images or use a double-wall filters.

Other noteworthy features include a quick heating thermoblock with adjustable grind settings, dose control, as well as drip tray that keeps beans out of your water. It's also simple to use and clean although it's not the longest-lasting unit out there. The biggest issue is its loudness during brewing. However, this is likely to decrease as you become more comfortable with it.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Mini

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

The Jolie Mini doesn't have the additional bells and whistles of the other machines in this list However, it does everything that a simple pod machine is supposed to do. It is quick to heat up and easy to use. It's a good option for those who want to try different flavours without the need to purchase a larger model.

Despite its size, even at its size, Jolie Mini is easy to clean. The drip tray, the container for capsules, and the water tank come with an easy MIN/MAX indicator. It is also dishwasher-safe and dishwasher safe, allowing you to keep it as clean as possible. It should be cleaned every three to four months, and the guidelines to do this are provided in the manual.

The users love this small machine with a rating of 4.4 out of five stars on Amazon. The machine's quiet operation, the wide range of options it offers as well as the possibility that the pods can be recycled or composted are all highly praised. Some users were unhappy with the size of the capsule, but this was easily resolved.

You'll also find a power cord and plug, a user manual, a quick-guide warranty information and a tester containing nine Lavazza pods. Six of these are roasted varieties, while two are lungo and two are decaffeinated. Two of them are organic, so you'll have plenty of choices for your next cup!

5. Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini

With its clean lines and small size, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Mini is designed to fit in modern kitchens. It is an espresso maker with the potential to revolutionise the way you make coffee in your home.

Our team was awestruck by the speed at which it made coffee as well as the quality of the finished product. The machine is easy-to-clean, and the waste bin and capsule bins are large enough to avoid a build-up of capsules that have been used. The A Modo Mio Mini comes with 16 Dolce Vita capsules, which can be used to make a quick treat.

This machine is ideal for coffee drinkers who prefer milk and aims to provide an authentic espresso with each sip. The clever automatic brewing system scans the barcode on each capsule, and then automatically adjusts settings to the best coffee machines level for your chosen drink. You'll require a separate machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. The A Modo Mio Mini is quiet and easy to use, which is a benefit for those who are people who are early risers or have busy families.

The VertuoPlus offers more presets, but it is not as customizable. This may not be an issue for coffee purists who prefer to play around until they discover the perfect recipe. The 1.8-litre water tank can be set at the back or to one side of the machine depending on the space available for your worktop and the capsule drawer is large enough to hold 13 pods. Other features include the ability to store your next cup while the machine is heating up, and also alerts if you haven't filled it with water or if it's in need of descaling.