The Best Capsule Coffee Machines of 2017

This machine is ideal for Nespresso lovers who wish to get rid of the tiny pods. It works with larger Vertuo capsules, analyzing the barcode and automatically adjusting settings for your chosen drink size.

It can save customized drinks to a button for super-speedy preparation, and includes espresso, ristretto and americano options. It also has a handy adjustable drip tray that can be adjusted in height and a sleep mode that is energy-efficient.

1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus was one of two new machines that joined the Nespresso line in 2017. It's narrower than other models, allowing it to fit into more space. And it comes with a broader selection of colours too.

The machine is the most recent version of Nespresso's pod-based system. Instead of piercing the capsule in order to pump hot water through it, the Vertuo Plus uses Centrifusion to spin the capsule around at speeds up to 7000rpm. This brew is made by mixing ground coffee and water. The capsule drips out of the 18 smaller holes and through the central hole and gives your drink a richer crema. The machine can make espresso drinks and lungo-style drinks that are longer in length.

It scans a barcode at the bottom of each capsule, allowing it to customize its blending process to suit each. This is the reason you can't use capsules from other brands that have the Vertuo Plus Nespresso's capsules - only Nespresso's own contain the barcode.

It's easy to use, using just one button on the top. Press the silver lever on the front to raise it up and reveal the space for your selected pod. Then drop it into place and press the single button to begin brewing.

The machine comes with a 40 ounce reservoir of water and it automatically releases capsules used up from the inside. It has a heating period of 15-20 seconds and a shut-off feature that automatically shuts off after nine minutes. It is simple to operate and reliable, and needs minimal maintenance. If you want to avoid the waste that is generated, make sure you have a reliable recycling system for used pods.

2. Lavazza Vertuo Pop

This compact machine from Lavazza is a striking addition to your coffee corner. The innovative Centrifusion technology scans the barcode on your chosen capsule to give you the precise amount of water you need for your perfect cup. It is available in a variety of colors and comes in up to five different sizes, including gran latte and double espresso.

The machine is more sophisticated than Nespresso pod machines as it also offers the option of heating and dispense milk. However, it's much more foolproof than a conventional home espresso maker and is a great option for those who aren't comfortable with a manual coffee maker. The Jolie comes with a large lever which opens and closes the capsule slot. A 0.9-litre tank can be inserted behind it. There's a large container for capsules too, which will hold ten capsules that you've used up.

It is easy to use and is ready to heat up in a matter of minutes. It's also extremely quiet and consumes only a small amount of energy, which makes it an excellent choice for energy bills.

The only drawback to this model is that it can only use Lavazza's capsules, rather than the range of Nespresso pods. This might not be a problem for most people, but it could be a concern for those who like to switch between brands. If you do decide to go with this machine, ensure you purchase a set of 100 reusable capsules with the purchase. These capsules aren't expensive, but they can save you money in the long run as they are less expensive than Nespresso pods.

3. Tassimo My Way

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

Like all machines from the Tassimo system is designed to be compatible with the company's brand barcoded T-Discs, which contain everything from tea, coffee capsules machines and hot chocolate to cold drinks and frothy milk. It comes with Intellibrew technology that automatically detects the kind of drink and adjusts the timing, temperature and strength accordingly. This stops you from accidentally changing settings that are not sensible, such as the strength of coffee with milk. It also ensures your beverage tastes consistently good.

The My Way 2 has an extensive selection of flavors to choose from, including more than 50 brands that are famous, including Costa favorites, Kenco, L'OR and Cadbury's. You can make cappuccinos, lattes and even fluffy Americanos.

The My Way 2 has an energy-saving standby mode and it's easy to clean. The water tank is easy to remove and is filled with fresh tap water. It doesn't come with an integrated mechanism for disposing of old T Discs. Instead it has partnered with Podback, a recycling company, to allow you to recycle the discs using an on-site program.

4. Jolie

A small pod coffee maker that's been available for a while, Jolie stands up well against the latest models. Its slimline design occupies less counter space than larger machines, and its controls are easy to use. You can select espresso or lungo at the push of the button, and a removable cup holder allows you to use regular cups or mugs, too.

It's not inexpensive, but the Jolie is a great choice for anyone looking for a basic capsule coffee maker that can produce excellent espresso with minimum effort. The Jolie comes with a handy steam wand, which allows you to add milk to make a cappuccino. It is also one of the quietest we've tested so it won’t interfere with sleep-ins for the family in the early morning.

SMEG is known for its fashionable kitchen appliances and this retro-styled pod coffee maker is no different (choose from red, cream or black). Compact enough to fit on your counter, yet still functional. A single press of a button can make an espresso in a short amount or a longer lungo, and its energy saving mode goes into standby after two minutes of inactivity or seven days of inactivity.

The Jolie is a great option for those who 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-wettes the capsule and adds flavor to it to make a better cup. Other options let you adjust the amount of water you use as well as adjust the temperature of your coffee and also adjust the pressure.

5. Infinissima

The Infinissima is the perfect machine for those who want an espresso in the morning or an espresso that will help fuel their day. It's an automatic capsule machine with a sleek style that is simple to use. Its unique design is inspired by the infinity symbol and includes an oblong pod holder and triangular water tank, which looks like modern art.

Although the Infinissima's unique exterior is fun but it doesn't sacrifice quality. It utilizes a high pressure system to extract the maximum flavour from each capsule of coffee and produces professional quality cafe style crema. It has a rapid heating time, so your drinks will be ready in just a few minutes. It also comes with a large removable 1.2L water tank, so you can make several cups before having to refill.

Another excellent feature is Infinissima's capability to brew hot and cold beverages. The temperature settings that can be adjusted allow you to choose from a variety of drinks, including iced coffee machines for pods and latte macarchiato. It has the cup heating plate, which keeps your beverage warm, preventing it from cooling too fast. The Infinissima also comes with a timer function that turns off the machine after a certain period of inactivity, promoting energy efficiency.

The Infinissima has simple controls and an LCD screen that lets you select your beverage. It also comes with a self-rising capsule holder that makes it easier to insert capsules and refill the water tank. Additionally it comes with a handy cleaning kit and a filter that can be reused to reuse capsules that you've used. Infinissima capsule coffee makers are a great option when you're looking for a top-quality machine in Qatar.