A capsule coffee machine allows you to quickly prepare delicious coffee. You don't have to study recipes or understand varieties. Just put a suitable capsule into the machine and a delicious cup of aromatic coffee will be ready in a couple of minutes. Choosing suitable household appliances is not easy, so our experts have compiled a rating of the best capsule coffee machines from different price categories. You can familiarize yourself with all the presented models, their characteristics and make the right choice. In total, 10 of the best models are presented, which have earned positive user reviews and are time-tested.
The best capsule coffee makers
A capsule coffee machine is a useful invention for quickly making coffee. To get the drink, capsules filled with compressed powder and covered with foil are inserted inside.
After starting the system, the contents of the punctured box are washed out with hot steam and the filtered drink enters the cup.
Each such machine works with a specific type of capsule. The assortment depends on the manufacturer and may include coffee with different flavors, cocoa and even tea.
Lavazza LB 1100
With water connection
A solid coffee machine with automatic control and a built-in cappuccino maker suitable for use in cafes, offices and hotels. The machine offers 14 wonderful coffee flavors, including decaf and cocoa.
Reasons to buy:
- spectacular design;
- light indication;
- convenient loading;
- built-in box for capsules;
- energy saving mode.
The first-class model is fully automated and equipped with an original milk frothing system. The white plastic housing is easy to clean from dirt.
The top cover contains controls and indicators. On the side there is a flat 1.8 liter water tank. Under the cup stand there is a container for 10 used capsules.
To get pure espresso, the capsule is placed in the slot, one of three extraction options is selected, and after a minute, a cup filled with a steaming drink is taken away. The preparation of cappuccino and latte is manual, using the built-in steam generator.
The functional model saves energy to a reasonable extent, and the well-thought-out brewing technology eliminates unnecessary manipulations and allows you to get coffee quickly and without hassle.
De'Longhi Nespresso Lattissima Touch Animation EN 560
Compact device with a full-fledged cappuccino maker
The capsule machine of the Nespresso system opens up wide possibilities for preparing coffee and gives access to six recipes, including Americano, espresso and proper cappuccino.
Reasons to buy:
- compact size;
- high-quality assembly;
- simple control and automatic shutdown;
- real cappuccino maker;
- adjusting the amount of water.
The machine creates a pressure of 19 bar and maintains a constant temperature during operation. The touch panel starts the cooking process in one motion. Automatic shutdown occurs after 9 minutes of inactivity.
For dairy recipes, the device heats and whips milk into a thick foam in a special 350 ml container. The volume of the water tank is 0.9 l. Power consumption 1400 W. The product comes with a set of 14 coffee capsules.
The design is equipped with a waste compartment, a drip tray with a stainless steel grid, a self-cleaning system for descaling and a removable milk jug.
All parts are carefully adjusted, the durable plastic case has no roughness or irregularities. Removable elements install effortlessly and are easy to remove.
Vertuo Plus C Silver Nespresso
Innovative machine for coffee with thick foam
Vertuo is a great choice for those who are not used to drinking coffee in small cups. The device uses capsules of different sizes and makes a large volume of drink.
Reasons to buy:
- durable body;
- spacious water tank;
- fluffy foam;
- amazing taste of coffee.
Vertuo Plus is different from the brand's standard capsule system. Its boxes with ground beans have an original shape and size, so they do not fit other Nespresso models.
Only Vertuo coffee capsules are compatible with this machine, guaranteeing a rich, creamy drink with a silky, creamy foam. If you add a little warmed milk to it, regular espresso turns into a mini-cappuccino.
The drink is available in five sizes: extra large cup 414 ml, large 230 ml, medium 150 ml, double espresso 80 ml and espresso 40 ml. The machine automatically reads the barcode on the box and individually adjusts the volume of water, temperature, and extraction time for the drink. A centrifuge is used for brewing, rather than simply supplying watery steam under high pressure.
Includes a 1.8-liter water tank, an adjustable cup stand, and a container for spent capsules. The device warm-up time is 40 seconds.
Bosch TAS 1404 Tassimo
Intelligent barcode reading technology
The device from Bosch offers a wide selection of drinks, including lattes, tea, cocoa and hot chocolate. The neat model attracts with its functionality and does not take up much space in the kitchen.
Reasons to buy:
- durable plastic housing;
- fast heating;
- no noise;
- affordable price.
The glossy Bosch TAS case is only 21 cm wide, so it fits easily in any convenient place. The design is easy to operate: to prepare, just load the capsule into the tank and press the button. By reading the barcode on the box, the machine will automatically launch the desired program.
The device has a light indicator, a removable 0.7 liter water compartment and a tray for collecting drops. You can choose the serving size and strength of the drink. It is convenient to make coffee in different cups - the stand is height adjustable.
A significant disadvantage of the Bosch TAS 1404 Tassimo is the lack of a container for used capsules. They are not very convenient to remove manually.
ILLY Francis Francis X7.1 Iperespresso
Professionally prepares Italian espresso
The ILLY X7.1 coffee machine, released by the Italian brand, has a stylish retro design and prepares impeccable cappuccino and espresso.
Reasons to buy:
- steel thermoblock;
- self-cleaning from scale;
- sound and light signal;
- foaming agent included;
- clear controls.
The X7 is made from chromed metal, and the sleek black surfaces are incredibly durable and beautiful. An intuitive interface allows you to select the volume of coffee, set the desired temperature and quickly brew espresso or cappuccino.
The Francis Francis system uses a patented two-stage brewing technology that creates rich coffee with a dense, creamy crema. The capacity of the removable water tank is 1.2 liters.
The model operates exclusively on ILLY Iperespresso capsules. They are more expensive than consumables from other brands and are not always available in stores. But if you manage to purchase a sufficient quantity, you will not regret the expense - the coffee from them turns out incredibly tasty.
Krups Nescafe Dolce Gusto Infinissima KP173B10
Interesting design
A coffee machine from Krups is a good alternative to expensive machines with the Nespresso system. The budget accessory pleases with a variety of coffee drinks, tea and hot chocolate.
Reasons to buy:
- exquisite appearance;
- compact dimensions;
- drain tray with three levels of adjustment;
- simple operating principle;
- wear resistance.
Krups Nescafe looks stylish and instantly becomes the highlight of any kitchen. The plastic case, shaped like an infinity symbol, has a matte finish that is resistant to water stains and fingerprints.
For cooking, a pump with a pressure of 15 bar is used here. The unique system prepares professional-quality drinks. In addition to traditional coffee, there are seven recipes with milk and chai latte with spices.
Krups makes not only hot drinks, but also cold drinks. Cappuccino Ice is similar to vanilla ice cream - it is refreshing on a hot summer day and leaves a pleasant aftertaste.
Water tank volume 1.2 l. Device power 1500 W. When descaling is required, the power button glows orange.
Caffitaly S18 Ambra
3 modes for black coffee
Caffitaly Ambra successfully combines modern design, a clear interface and fits perfectly into the interior of a small kitchen, office or mini-hotel.
Reasons to buy:
- stylish design;
- fast work;
- low noise level;
- adjustable water supply;
- small dimensions.
The black plastic case with chrome elements is resistant to mechanical damage. For proper coffee brewing, a powerful pump is installed inside, supplying water under high pressure.
It is allowed to use cups of different heights and choose the serving size by adjusting the liquid supply. The machine has three operating modes programmed: lungo, Americano, espresso. The capacity of the water tank is 1 liter.
Only Caffitaly brand capsules are compatible with the device, including exquisite varieties of coffee, such as a mixture of Robusta and Arabica. The machine doesn't make cappuccino. To get a milk drink, you will need a panarello attachment.
Inhouse Multicoffee ICM1901BR
Multifunctional coffee machine
An ideal solution for people who cannot decide which coffee is better - ground or in capsules. The coffee machine allows you to experiment with flavors and change the serving size up or down.
Reasons to buy:
- versatility;
- high-quality assembly;
- practicality;
- automatic descaling;
- LED indication.
The easy-to-use machine has proven itself well when used at home and in the office. Interesting colors and modern design of the plastic case fit into any interior and create a cozy atmosphere.
The water is supplied by a pump that develops a pressure of up to 19 bar. The set includes three adapters to use Dolce Gusto, Nespresso and regular ground coffee capsules.
Button combinations adjust the serving volume individually. The dish stand is adjustable and can accommodate a cup up to 11 cm high. But the volume of the water container is small - 0.6 liters.
The thoughtful design eliminates splashing of the drink when brewing and allows you to keep the machine clean due to the removable drip reservoir and descaling mode.
When should you buy a capsule coffee maker?
True coffee lovers who adore the smell of freshly ground beans start every morning with a cup of an invigorating drink. A traditional machine for beans and ground coffee is bulky and expensive, so not everyone decides to make such a purchase.
If for some reason it is difficult for you to purchase an automatic unit, there are two options left:
- ordinary Turk;
- capsule coffee machine.
The first option requires free time, close attention, and is also not suitable for everyone. The capsule system offers a good alternative. It does not take up extra space and allows you to get varied and tasty drinks with just one click of a button.
Capsule coffee makers have many advantages:
- process automation;
- fast brewing;
- neat work;
- variety and richness of tastes;
- the price is lower than traditional coffee machines.
The disadvantages include that the capsule is more expensive than a cup of standard natural coffee. This means you will have to spend a lot of money every month to treat yourself to a drink. We recommend purchasing this equipment if you drink no more than a couple of cups per day.
What's inside a Nespresso coffee machine capsule?
First you need to figure out what the capsule itself is. This is a small-sized sealed container, which is mainly made of food-grade aluminum or plastic. It consists of three components:
- Protective membrane film.
- Contents.
- Container.
A standard Nespresso capsule contains approximately 5 g of ground coffee, the highest quality roast. There is a misconception that a manufacturer can put a low-quality product inside.
The coffee capsule is placed in a special compartment, from where it can be removed after preparation. Three reasons can be cited as proof of the incorrectness of this opinion:
- Each food product undergoes multi-stage control, since if the information on the label does not correspond to the contents, the manufacturer may lose its license.
- The coffee company has no intention of deceiving the buyer, as this will affect its reputation.
- For long-term preservation of the product, the use of preservatives is not required. The inert gas contained in the capsules creates a vacuum, which prevents the raw material from oxidizing.
Therefore, do not worry, if the manufacturer indicated that there is 100% Arabica coffee inside the capsule, then this is truly so.
Operating principle and additional functions
Capsule coffee machines operate using new technology and use sealed containers made of aluminum or plastic with a strictly measured portion of ground coffee inside.
The box is placed in a special slot and the device is started by pressing the button. During the cooking process, the capsule is pierced and hot water vapor passes through it under pressure, infusing it with aroma and taste. The range of popular capsules includes ready-made drinks with milk, different types of tea, hot chocolate and cocoa.
To make cappuccino, you will additionally need a milk container and a frother. A manual cappuccino maker is placed on a metal tube to release steam. The Panarello attachment whips and heats the milk at the same time. The finished foam is carefully added to the coffee.
Expensive models have a built-in cappuccino maker that works on the same principle, and in some the process is fully automated.
The list of additional functions of capsule coffee makers includes:
- timer;
- auto descaling;
- warming the cup;
- portion size adjustment;
- pre-wetting.
A useful addition is a filter. It purifies water and increases the service life of the product. It’s good if the design includes a waste container and a removable drip tray.
Advanced functionality makes it easier to use and speeds up the operation of the coffee maker, improves the taste of the drink, but at the same time increases the cost of the machine.
How to choose
When choosing a coffee machine, the buyer will be helped by the rating of capsule coffee machines and the following tips from professionals:
- Give preference to models from proven and popular manufacturers.
- Adjusting the temperature, strength of the drink and the size of its portion will allow you to get exactly the coffee you want at the moment.
- The first activation should not take much time.
- It is better if the duration of water heating does not exceed 30 seconds.
- Premium coffee machines remember recipes; this function will be needed in a family that loves different types of coffee, as well as in the office.
- Availability of capsules should be assessed. Some of them can only be ordered on the manufacturer’s official website and are very expensive.
Sometimes the markup on a coffee machine is explained by the popularity of the company, but the product does not always meet the buyer’s expectations. The average cost of the device is 7,500 rubles. Evaluate the technical merits of the chosen model to understand whether it is worth paying more.
It is not recommended to buy the device on Aliexpress, as problems with selecting capsules may arise later. However, in this store you can find models that are sold in mass markets, but at a lower cost.
Features of choice
Before purchasing a coffee machine, decide what kind of coffee you like. Models do not take all capsules indiscriminately. Having bought a device, you will have to be content with boxes from a certain manufacturer, or look for analogues, but they are not always available.
When choosing a product, pay attention to characteristics that affect performance:
Power
Determines the brewing speed. For home use, equipment with a power of 900 W or more is recommended.
Pump pressure
To brew coffee, water is pressurized into the capsule. The taste depends on the flow rate, so choose a pump with 15 bar or higher.
Water tank capacity
The indicator affects the amount of brewed drink. For one person 0.6 liters is enough, for two or three people you will need a liter, for 4-5 people - 1.2-1.8 liters.
If the kitchen is small, the size of the coffee machine is important. There are many compact representatives among capsule devices, so choosing a worthy model is not difficult.
general description
The main structural element of a capsule-type coffee machine is a supporting frame on which key components and a control unit are fixed.
Any device contains:
- A boiler or thermoblock is a unit designed to heat water.
- Pump – a pump that produces high pressure.
- The control unit is an electronic component consisting of wires and circuit boards. The unit control system and software are grouped here. The control unit sends signals to all nodes when buttons or levers are pressed.
- The capsule ejection and brewing system is a mechanism that allows you to correctly clamp the capsule, pierce holes, brew coffee powder, and throw the used capsule into the tray.
- Water dispenser - the device measures the volume of liquid, programming portions of the drink for a small or large cup, which is individual for each button.
Capsule systems
There are several capsule systems on the coffee market, patented by different brands.
Nespresso
Nespresso from Nestle has a leading position. The machines supply steam under a pressure of 19 bar and, in addition to espresso, can prepare coffee drinks with natural milk.
In total, the line includes more than 20 models produced by Krups and Delonghi. For them, 26 types of capsules of 7 g each are produced with natural black coffee, vanilla and caramel flavors.
There is no hot chocolate or tea available. Capsules are available in branded stores. They also sell empty aluminum boxes for filling yourself with regular ground grains.
Tassimo
In second place is the Tassimo system from the USA. Bosch installs it in its coffee machines. The ground Jakobs Monarch beans inside the capsules are lightly compressed, so there is no need for powerful pressure, and the devices operate effectively at just 3.3 bar.
Large boxes are designed in the form of tablets. Each has a barcode with cooking information. 14 flavors have been developed, including tea and cocoa. For cappuccino, use two tablets alternately: with ground coffee and powdered milk.
Dolce Gusto
On the third step is the Dolce Gusto system from Nestle. Devices operating under a pressure of 15 bar are produced by the manufacturer Krups. The assortment includes 25 capsules for black coffee, latte, cocoa, cappuccino. Dairy drinks contain milk powder and sometimes instant coffee.
Some coffee machines are equipped with adapters and can accept capsules from several brands. Most often it is Dolce Gusto + Nespresso.
The Italian systems Caffitaly, Lavazza, Francis Francis also have excellent quality. Companies offer coffee in a variety of flavors at reasonable prices. The downside is that specific capsules can be difficult to find on sale.
