A capsule coffee maker is an indispensable device for those people who cannot start the day without coffee. Such devices are compact and quite functional. Our selection includes current models and tips for choosing capsule coffee machines.
Almost every person’s morning starts with a cup of coffee, because it invigorates and improves their mood. It is important to prepare this drink correctly in order to get the best qualities from it and not wash out the taste. Several factors will be important: water temperature, coffee variety, degree of roasting, etc. If everyone chooses the type of beans at their own discretion, then there are recommendations regarding the water temperature: it should be heated to 93-97 °C, because steep boiling water makes coffee very bitter. If you have a kettle without a temperature sensor, then after boiling you can wait a couple of minutes, and then prepare your favorite drink.
Or better yet, use a coffee machine that brews a delicious espresso or Americano in seconds. A capsule coffee maker is a device that uses special sealed discs filled with ground coffee beans. In this case, the drink is prepared as follows: the discs are placed in a special compartment, the desired program is started, and you enjoy your favorite latte or mocha.
The material contains the best models of capsule coffee machines according to the editors of “Experts’ Choice”. The article is of a recommendatory nature and is not a guide to purchase or other actions.
Contents
Editor’s Choice
GARLYN Barista Compact
GARLYN Barista Compact is a horn coffee machine with great potential and the ability to use Nespresso and Dolce Gusto capsules if you purchase the appropriate adapters. This turns the coffee machine into a universal device for obtaining the perfect drink for any mood and situation. No time – just insert a capsule and enjoy an invigorating espresso. If you want to enjoy the true taste of espresso and control the process – use a horn.
The intuitive touch panel provides a choice of five different coffee drinks: from aromatic lungo (double espresso) to delicate latte with creamy milk foam. The set includes two types of milk frothers – manual and automatic, which is very convenient and rare for such models.
The pressure of 20 bar and the power of 1850 W guarantee the perfect disclosure of all the nuances of the taste and aroma of coffee, and also ensures its fast delivery. You have the opportunity to adjust the volume of the drink to your taste and your favorite mug.
Manufacturers have hidden the innovative Compact Fix magnetic portafilter inside the body. Magnetic fastening ensures reliable and easy installation of the portafilter, and also contributes to its external compactness. You will find a place for the GARLYN Barista Compact coffee machine even in the smallest kitchen.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Nespresso, Dolce Gusto + ground coffee |
| Power | 1350 W |
| Pressure | 20 Bar |
| Water and milk tank capacity | 1.6 l and 0.4 l |
| Type of drinks | latte, cappuccino, espresso, americano, lungo, tea |
Pros and cons
Pros: Pump pressure 20 Bar, individual drink settings, innovative Compact Fix portafilter shape, control panel with informative display, compatibility with Nespresso® and Dolce Gusto® capsules with the purchase of an additional adapter
Cons: Not found
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Caffitaly Volta S36
A compact and stylish device for making coffee at home or in the office. The model operates at a power of 1,450 W under a pressure of 15 bar, which ensures instant preparation of the drink (in just 30 seconds), a rich taste and a dense velvety foam. The serving size varies from 20 to 250 ml, and the daily resource of the coffee machine is 100 cups per day. The device supports three programs: Espresso, Lungo, as well as filter coffee for Americano and tea.
The capsules do not clog the device with pulp, so only periodic descaling is required – a special program is built in for this, it notifies about the need to start the cleaning cycle. The coffee machine is very simple to operate, preparation is turned on with one press of a button. The device also operates in energy saving mode, that is, it automatically turns off after the program is completed.
Users say that the set includes three packages of different capsules (30 pieces in total, and another 12 as a gift when activating the QR code), individual programs are configured and remembered, which is very convenient for the whole family, in addition to coffee, it makes chocolate drinks for children, only the portions are small.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Caffitaly |
| Power | 1,450 W |
| Pressure | 15 bar |
| Volume | 0.7 l |
| Noise level | 70 dB |
| Weight | 3.3 kg |
| Type of drink | lungo, espresso, tea, chocolate |
Pros and cons
Powerful, quickly brews coffee and chocolate drinks, capsules included, individual program settings, built-in descaling program, easy to operate
The portions are small
KaringBee ST-510
A universal machine for brewing capsule and ground coffee. The lightweight and compact model fits perfectly into any kitchen interior at home or in the office. With a power of 1450 W and a pressure of 19 bar, the device makes espresso or Americano in a matter of seconds. Once the coffee machine is finished, it automatically switches to energy saving mode and turns off after 15 minutes.
The set includes several attachments, suitable for many capsules, the foam is excellent, with a cappuccino maker coffee, cocoa or chocolate will be even tastier, but it is not included. Also, not all mugs are suitable, when you first turn it on, you need to run an empty one (without coffee), otherwise the drink will not be rich.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Dolce Gusto, Nespresso Original |
| Power | 1,450 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 0.6 l |
| Weight | 2.75 kg |
| Type of drink | espresso, americano, cocoa, chocolate |
Pros and cons
Powerful, quickly brews ground and capsule coffee, several attachments for many capsules
Not all mugs are suitable, you need to run an empty one before turning it on for the first time
Hibrew H2A
Machine for making ground, capsule, cold and hot coffee. It quickly heats water and maintains heat. For this purpose, an extended stainless steel heating element, a precise temperature sensor and special Thermoblock technology are built in (regulates portioned heating of water, as much as is needed for one cup of a certain type of drink).
The device squeezes out the maximum benefit and taste from the beans due to the high pressure of 19 bar. The power here is also sufficient – 1,450 W, so espresso or Americano is prepared in 40 seconds, cappuccino is brewed on an automatic program. Electronic control, and a function for blocking the switch on without water is provided. Among the design features, we will highlight the removable tray for collecting drips.
Users note the design, compactness and versatility of the model; a capsule stand is included as a gift, but the coffee machine beeps during preparation and its water tank is small.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Dolce Gusto, Nespresso Original |
| Power | 1,450 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 0.7 l |
| Weight | 3.65 kg |
| Type of drink | espresso, americano, lungo, ristretto, cappuccino |
Pros and cons
For ground and capsule, cold and hot coffee, portioned water heating, lock-out when the tank is empty
Beeps during operation, water tank is small
Top 3 Best Small Capsule Coffee Machines Rating
Futula CC4
A coffee maker with a heating element powered by a car cigarette lighter and USB. The capacity of the product is only 100 ml, so you can enjoy delicious coffee on the road, for example, on a business trip or travel. Ground or capsule coffee is suitable for preparation.
The built-in siphon ensures uniform pressure distribution, and the plastic parts of the body prevent overheating. The outer coating does not slip in your hands and keeps the drink warm for a long time, maintaining the temperature due to the heating function. The design also includes a metal container for ground grain granules.
The control is carried out with one button. Users note the ease of use of the device, the quick preparation of the drink. However, ground coffee is strongly pressed and the remains are difficult to wash out.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Nespresso Original |
| Power | 90 W |
| Pressure | 15 bar |
| Volume | 0.1 l |
| Weight | 0.5 kg |
| Type of drink | espresso, americano |
Pros and cons
Compact, maintains the temperature of the drink, does not slip in your hands, easy to operate
Ground coffee is heavily compressed, making it difficult to wash out the residue.
Mi_Co
Compact and powerful machine for quick coffee preparation. The device is equipped with a quick water heating system and a water pump for supplying hot water under 19 bar pressure. You can brew capsule and ground coffee Americano, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, lungo, ristretto and espresso.
The model is equipped with an automatic shutdown function when not in use, an on and off indicator, and a 430 ml water tank. The body is made of food-grade plastic and metal, which ensures safety, durability, and a long service life of the product. According to users, the machine looks expensive, the plastic is high-quality, it works quietly, but the water does not heat up very much and there is no adjustment for the amount of liquid per capsule.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Dolce Gusto |
| Power | 1,850 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 0.43 l |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Type of drink | Americano, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, lungo, ristretto and espresso |
Pros and cons
Compact, very powerful, works quietly, made of high-quality materials, fast water heating system, adapters for ground and capsule coffee
The water doesn’t heat up very much, there is no adjustment for the amount of liquid per capsule
Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini Me
Capsule machine for making hot and cold coffee. It is equipped with a selector (Play & Select function) for adjusting the amount of water per capsule. The model makes up to 30 types of drinks: espresso, latte, macchiato, cappuccino, other types of coffee, as well as tea and cocoa.
The supply of hot or cold water is regulated by a lever (blue or red depending on the selected temperature). The design also includes a removable 0.8 liter tank and a drip tray adjustable in four positions. Users say that the coffee machine is easy to use, compact, stylish design, a set of capsules is included, convenient for home and garden, Americano and espresso are aromatic, only cappuccino capsules are an acquired taste.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Dolce Gusto |
| Power | 1,500 W |
| Pressure | 15 bar |
| Volume | 0.8 l |
| Weight | 2.5 kg |
| Type of drink | espresso, latte, macchiato, cappuccino, other types of coffee, tea, cocoa, hot chocolate |
Pros and cons
Brews hot and cold coffee, adjustable amount of water per capsule, removable tank and tray, capsules included
Cappuccino is for an amateur
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Alvatto
A convenient and stylish coffee machine for home or office is equipped with adapters for making capsule and ground coffee. The device operates at a power of 1,450 W and a pressure of 19 bar, thanks to which you will get delicious and aromatic coffee in a few seconds. The model is equipped with a 600 ml water tank, a function for adjusting the portion of hot water, a liquid level indicator and an automatic cleaning program. Touch control.
The coffee machine is easy to use, made of high-quality plastic, works quietly, makes delicious coffee, but when it brews, it vibrates a lot, so the mug slides off the tray.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Dolce Gusto, Nespresso Original, Nespresso Professional |
| Power | 1,450 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 0.6 l |
| Weight | 2.5 kg |
| Type of drink | hot chocolate, different types of coffee |
Pros and cons
Compact, stylish, makes capsule and ground coffee, hot water setting function, automatic cleaning program, touch control, capsules included
Rattles when cooking, mug slides off tray
Polaris PCM 1540
Coffee machine with automatic cappuccino maker for making milk-coffee drinks, capsule and ground coffee. The model is equipped with six preset programs, self-cleaning function, automatic descaling, automatic shutdown after preparation and a pump with a pressure of 15 bar. The design also includes a removable reusable filter and a work indicator light.
Touch control via Wi-Fi protocol with connection to the “Smart Home” via the IQ Home application on the smartphone. The device automatically froths milk, compact, convenient to place even in a small kitchen, clear display, convenient application for control, easy to care for and maintain, however, the volume of coffee and milk is not adjustable and is not suitable for every cup.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Dolce Gusto, Nespresso Original, Nespresso Professional |
| Power | 1,400 W |
| Pressure | 15 bar |
| Volume | 1.8 l |
| Type of drink | cappuccino, latte, flat white, espresso |
Pros and cons
Built-in automatic cappuccino maker, six preset programs, removable tank, touch control, connection to the Smart Home via the app
The volume of coffee and milk is not adjustable, not every cup is suitable
Xiaomi Scishare Fancy Capsule
A stylish coffee machine with a built-in cappuccino maker for making latte, espresso, Americano and cappuccino. The device is equipped with an independent hot water supply mode, due to which it can be used as a thermo pot. Water is heated quickly and evenly, and milk – up to 55 °C. Coffee is prepared using the extraction method under a pressure of 19 bar, which gives a bright and rich taste.
The device prepares in four modes, and you can also choose the water temperature and cup volume. The cappuccino maker is equipped with an automatic cleaning function that allows you to remove milk residue and bacteria. The kit also includes a special brush for cleaning the product from coffee residue. Also among the options, you can note the automatic shutdown, which reduces the machine overload and saves energy.
The set includes capsules, during preparation the backlight comes on, the machine makes milk foam and brews coffee to any taste, however the capsules become uneven, so the water goes past the container for capsules, and from there it spills out onto the table.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Bennoti, Bialetti, Brown, CHOGAN, Caffitaly, Cafiera, Cafissimo, Capsul’in, Cremesso, Dolce Gusto, Ecaffe, INTO and so on |
| Power | 1,500 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 1.7 l |
| Type of drink | cappuccino, latte, americano, espresso |
Pros and cons
Built-in cappuccino maker, can be used as a thermo pot, automatic cleaning of the cappuccino maker, brush for removing coffee residues, four modes, many functions
Water flows past the capsules onto the table
Top 3 Best Professional Capsule Coffee Machines Rating
Mijia S1301
Machine for making capsule coffee. The model operates at 1,150 W with 20 bar pressure, which allows you to quickly prepare your favorite latte, espresso, Americano, cappuccino, Turkish coffee, lungo, macchiato, ristretto and other types, as well as hot chocolate in a matter of seconds.
The device’s operation is facilitated by the options of automatic shutdown after preparation, blocking the power-on when the tank is empty and setting the portion of hot water with a volume of 40 or 110 ml, power-on indicator, no coffee indicator, and drink volume memory.
The design is also supplemented with a tray for collecting waste and drips. The device switches off after ten minutes of inactivity. The coffee machine is compact, has an interesting design, works quietly, brews coffee well, only in large cups it is watery, the kit includes two packages of coffee and an adapter for a European socket. The water tank is poorly made, not all capsules are pierced.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Nespresso Original |
| Power | 1 150 W |
| Pressure | 20 bar |
| Volume | 0.6 l |
| Type of drink | Americano, hot chocolate, cappuccino, Turkish coffee, latte, lungo, macchiato, ristretto, flat white |
Pros and cons
Makes any type of coffee, hot water portion settings, works quietly, compact, many functions, two capsule packs included, has an adapter for a European socket
The tank is poorly made, not all capsules are pierced
Nespresso C30 Essenza Mini
A compact coffee machine with a stylish design that easily fits into any interior. The model makes Americano, lungo, ristretto, espresso, cappuccino (automatic), cocoa and mocha. It is possible to adjust the volume of a portion of hot water, while the maximum height of the mug is 12.5 cm.
The set of options is standard: automatic shutdown after cooking, blocking of switching on without water and automatic shutdown nine minutes after the last use. The device is made of high-quality plastic and metal, easy to use, brews well, only the buttons sometimes get stuck and there are no capsules in the kit.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Nespresso Original |
| Power | 1,310 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 0.6 l |
| Type of drink | americano, lungo, ristretto, espresso, cappuccino, cocoa, mochaccino |
Pros and cons
Universal, compact, adjustable portion size, made of high-quality materials, easy to use
The buttons sometimes get stuck, there are no capsules included
DSP KA-3046
A coffee machine in an elegant metal case. The model is equipped with a cup warmer, a manual cappuccino maker with a steam and hot water supply function. You can quickly brew capsule or ground coffee, as well as hot chocolate.
The design includes a readiness-to-use indicator and a removable, reusable filter.
Users say that the machine is assembled neatly, the reservoir is enough for two large mugs, the coffee turns out very tasty and rich, it is not noisy, the kit includes a measuring spoon and a pump for the first pumping, only after ground coffee you need to wash the nozzle.
Main characteristics
| Type of capsules | Nespresso, Dolce Gusto |
| Power | 1,450 W |
| Pressure | 19 bar |
| Volume | 0.8 l |
| Type of drink | americano, hot chocolate, cappuccino, l |
Pros and cons
Cup warmer, built-in manual cappuccino maker, removable reusable filter, water capacity is enough for two cups, coffee is tasty and rich
After ground coffee, you need to wash the attachmen
How to choose a capsule coffee machine
There are coffee machines in different price categories on the market. Before choosing a model, you should check what types of capsules are suitable for it and how accessible they are, pay attention to the functionality and other parameters:
Power
The higher it is, the faster the coffee is prepared. Manufacturers offer capsule coffee machines with a power of 950 to 2,000 W, while the optimal speed of preparation is shown by devices with a power of more than 1,500 W.
Pressure
Under pressure, water passes through the capsule after piercing. The higher it is, the more concentrated the drink, i.e. it contains more aromatic and flavoring substances. The best models of coffee machines develop pressure from 15 to 20 bar.
Water tank capacity
It comes in sizes from 600 ml to two liters. A large capacity is suitable for families of three to five people, and for two people 600-800 ml is enough.
Capsule container
It also holds a different number of capsules: home models can hold six to eight, while office models can hold up to 15 to 20.
Cappuccino maker
Coffee machines with a built-in cappuccino maker are premium class. Milk foam can be whipped automatically or manually. Such devices are suitable for lovers of drinks with milk.
Type of capsules
- Nespresso. Capsules produced by the famous company Nestlé. Quite common, distinguished by a variety of flavors and high cost. Such capsules can be used by almost all coffee machines, including models with a cappuccino maker.
- Dolche Gusto. Another product of the Nestlé brand, a budget analogue of Nespresso capsules. Replaces them everywhere except for machines with the preparation of drinks with milk. The manufacturer offers such capsules containing cocoa, hot chocolate and dry milk.
- Tassimo. Capsules produced by Jacobs, which are produced specifically for use in Tassimo coffee machines from Bosch.
- Squesito. An Italian brand that produces hermetic capsules. Their contents are a mixture of selected Arabica and Robusta beans. Used in coffee machines of the same name.
- Cremesso. A Swiss brand that produces capsules for making lungo, ristretto, espresso and milk drinks, as well as coffee with added caramel and vanilla.
- Caffitaly. Italian manufacturer offering capsules with double filters for making different types of coffee, including decaffeinated coffee, drinks with milk, cocoa and black tea with lemon.
Additional functions
Make the use of the coffee machine more convenient. This includes an electronic control system with a display and indicators that notify you when water needs to be added, as well as:
- descaling system for the device;
- automatic shutdown after some time after cooking;
- energy saving mode;
- the ability to choose the type of drink;
- programming the switch-on time using a timer;
- choice of portion size and temperature;
- built-in cup warmer.
Expert Review of Capsule Coffee Machines
Anna Lushnikova, head of customer service at the Techport online store, shares advice on choosing a capsule coffee machine :
“Capsule coffee machines have become very popular in recent years due to their ease of use and ability to make delicious coffee in a short time. However, they can be quite expensive, especially if you plan to use them regularly.
What to look for when choosing:
- Check how easy it is to find capsules and how much they cost.
- The higher the power, the faster the device will prepare the drink. I do not recommend taking devices with a power lower than 1,000 W.
- The stronger the pressure, the brighter the taste. Choose models with a pressure of at least 15 bar.”
Popular Questions and Answers
Olga Khramova, author of the Little Coffee Scout blog and creator of the School of Coffee Lovers, and Anna Lushnikova, head of customer service at the Techport online store, answer popular questions from readers :
How can you save money on buying a capsule coffee machine?
If you want to save money, find out if it is possible to use capsules from other manufacturers. They are much cheaper. Many stores offer discounts during holidays and sales. Seize the moment and enjoy delicious coffee.
How does a capsule coffee machine work?
The operating principle is simple: the coffee machine pierces the foil lid on the capsule and passes hot water through the coffee capsule under high pressure.
What is the difference between a capsule coffee machine for home and a coffee machine for office?
Capsule coffee machines for the office and home are essentially the same devices, and their functionality is no different. Their main task is to make coffee easy both at home and in the office. All operations are automated to the maximum extent. The only difference is in the needs: small coffee machines are often purchased for the home, while devices with a large water tank and without a cappuccino maker are purchased for the office.
How to use a capsule coffee machine?
Pour filtered water into the water compartment. Ideally, use low-mineralization water so that limescale deposits from tap water do not spoil the machine parts and do not affect the taste of the coffee. Place the capsule in the capsule compartment. Select the required preparation program and volume of the drink, close the compartment with the capsule. Wait until the water has finished pouring – the coffee is ready.
How to clean a capsule coffee machine?
If you use filtered water with low mineralization (up to 100 mg/l), you won’t have to clean the coffee machine. To remove scale, you can use specific coffee chemicals in the form of powder or tablets. After using them, you need to rinse the coffee machine several times without a capsule.
Ideally, rinse the coffee machine at the end of each day after use, so that it lasts a long time and does not accumulate coffee oils that negatively affect the taste of coffee.
Can coffee in a capsule be considered natural?
Coffee in a capsule is coffee beans that the manufacturer ground specifically for this method of preparation. After Nespresso lost their license, a huge number of producers of coffee in capsules of completely different quality appeared on the market. Every coffee lover can find something to their liking from Russian roasters.
