Best Coffee Machine Pods

Pod coffee machines make it simple to get your caffeine fix in the morning. In contrast to traditional machines, they dispense pre-packed pods of ground coffee or espresso to speed up the process.

For the best coffee machine bean to cup pod coffee machine, pick one that provides the most options to adjust the size of the drink and temperatures. Also, ensure that the machine can accommodate the use of reusable pods.

1. Nespresso Vertuo

Nespresso is the top brand in pod brewing, and a popular choice for espresso fans. The machines and capsules of Nespresso are highly rated in terms of quality and sustainability. The capsules are made from 80 percent recyclable material and can be composted. They are less plastic-based and have a lower carbon footprint than traditional coffee bags. Nespresso also has a partnership with green-certified organizations to encourage fair working conditions and sustainable farming.

The Nespresso Vertuo range includes several machines that produce a thick tasty cup of coffee or espresso with a perfect crema. The VertuoPlus X and VertuoPlus Deluxe models come with advanced features such as automatic heating of milk and adjustable drinks settings. These machines are simple to use and feature modern and sleek designs that will look stunning in your kitchen.

Both the X and Deluxe models come with a huge water reservoir and a slender machine body. Centrifusion, a brand new extraction technology, uses up to 7,500 rotations per minute to make coffee or espresso. This technique helps create a smooth and consistent crema with a high degree of saturation, even in smaller cups.

Nespresso's capsules are a bit more expensive than third-party compatible pods that are sold in supermarkets and a variety of online retailers, but they have a nice range of flavors and intensities to select from. The company frequently releases limited-edition options as well. The machines are easy to use, and the Vertuoline is simpler than Nespresso's original Nespresso that only makes espresso.

The Vertuoline also has two sizes of capsules -- the smaller espresso size and the gran lungo size for those who prefer shorter drinks. The larger mug capsules and alto capsules can be used to make mug-sized drinks that require an even more robustly roasted cup of coffee. In contrast to some of the other pod machines that we have tested, the Nespresso Vertuoline also makes a excellent drip coffee.

2. Illy X7.1

This pod coffee maker is a high-spec machine that's made from tough and attractive materials. It's a bit more expensive than the other machines that we tested, but it offers reliable, high-quality performance and features a beautiful design.

The X7.1 is a patented system that reads the barcodes on every best capsule coffee machine to determine their identity. It then pre-wets it, infuses it and then dispensing the right amount of water automatically. This is a huge plus point for those who want hassle-free, hands-off automation. However, it may frustrate those who love to alter settings and choose their own brew strength or size. The machine is able to serve espresso double espresso, gran lungo mug and alto drinks with a fine layer of crema.

The X7.1 is not only a standout in terms of its brewing technology but also for its other features. It is one of only a few coffee machines that we tested to offer the ability to adjust the height of the tray in order to alter the size and shape of the coffee mug. It also comes with a stainless-steel milk jug to make lattes and cappuccinos. The X7.1 is also equipped with an energy-saving sleep mode as well as a detachable pod holder to make cleaning easier.

Compatible with All Keurig K-Cups, Nespresso capsules Compatible with all Keurig K-Cups, Nespresso capsules, and Bruvi B-Pods. These pods differ from K-Cups or other popular pods because they contain ground coffee instead of a teabag and are more caffeine-rich than regular espresso. The Bruvi also comes with app compatibility and can be set to brew on a remote basis and according to a schedule. It comes with an ice wand, which can be used to make cappuccinos and lattes frothy.

3. Grind One

If you're not a fan of the plastic Nespresso pods or you're looking for something that isn't too bulky, then the Stockholm-designed Grind One may be the most suitable option for you. Two members of the Real Homes team have been testing it out in their kitchens, and both are incredibly pleased with it. It's a sleek stainless-steel geometric machine, that looks super stylish and is simple to use. Simply place a pod, choose whether you'd prefer a lungo, or a short express and press the button. The light flashes to indicate whether the coffee is in the process of brewing or ready. There's no steam wand nor milk carafe, however you can add toppings to your coffee with hot or cold milk as you wish.

This machine is designed to work with Grind’s own compostable, recyclable and reusable pods. This means you're not only cutting down on your coffee waste (which can take hundreds of years to degrade) but the pods themselves have zero plastic and are completely organic. They cost around 50p each and you could chuck them into your food waste bin or garden compost after they're empty.

The Grind One is PS275, and you can also add a bundle with a milk frother to it for an additional PS325. It's more expensive than a lot of Nespresso-branded pod machines however it's a sleek and well-designed versatile machine. It's also the smallest of the bunch, so it doesn't require enough countertop space, and it comes with an elevated drip tray that is secured to the sides of the waste bin for height adjustment.

4. Grind 2

This pod machine is ideal for those who love having a quick cup of coffee. It can be used to brew an espresso shot in a short time or a long shot with three different extraction settings and temperatures. Its ability to make a great espresso was awe-inspiring to our coffee lover. Its crema (which should be a cosy chestnut color and last until the last sip) and temperature were right on. Its elegant design, as well its strong and attractive materials, helped it stand out from the competition.

Our coffee expert also tried the Grind One to see if it was easy to use. The robust switch is pleasant to use and comes with the option of programming your favorite long or short shot. It also comes with a clear display. You can choose to automatically pour hot water alongside your coffee to help the ground settle and improves the flavor of your beverage. This pod coffee maker also includes a handy milk frother making it a fantastic all-rounder.

Another benefit of these machines is that they eliminate the messiness out of making espresso grinding and dosing the beans that have been ground. This means that there are fewer items that have to be cleaned up and recycled, making them a better option for those with limited kitchen space. If you want to expand your options, you can use a separate milk frother to make lattes and cappuccinos. Alternatively, you could go with a manual coffee maker such as the Aeropress which offers a low carbon footprint with more flavor than the machine. However, it will require more effort from you and we wouldn't recommend it to all.

5. Lavazza Idola

Unlike the more expensive Lavazza Voicy pod Best coffee machine pod maker, this model doesn't have a milk frother, but is great for anyone who likes an espresso, ristretto, or caffe lungo. It's also among the quietest machines, so you can sip your morning coffee while your kids are still sleeping.

You can set a size for your cup that is suitable for your taste and choose to boost the temperature to help your beverage go through more quickly with the push of the button. You can also keep up on maintenance by getting alerts when the capsule bin is empty or when the water tank needs to be filled up.

The machine doesn't froth milk, but it can be used to make cappuccinos and flat whites with a separate container. There are plenty of positive reviews from customers on Amazon and at John Lewis. They praise the machine's flexibility, quiet operation, and various lengths of the brews.

There aren't many customer reviews but the general consensus is that it's a great pod coffee machine if you like a simple set-up. It's more expensive than the Nespresso Vertuo Pop but comes with the best nespresso vertuo machine Lavazza pods. It is also among the quietest machines available. It's not the best bean to cup coffee machine under 500 choice if you need to create more than two types of coffee though, so we'd recommend one of our top choices if that's what you're looking for. For more information, read our full Lavazza Idola review.