best espresso machine under 500 Coffee Machine Pods
Pod coffee machines take the pain out of getting your morning caffeine fix. They are more efficient than traditional machines since they use pre-packaged pods to give espresso or ground coffee.
Choose a pod-based coffee machine that allows you to adjust the temperature and size of your drink. Also, check if the machine can accommodate reusable pods.
1. Nespresso Vertuo
Nespresso is the leader in pod brewing and is a favourite among coffee lovers. Nespresso's capsules and machines are highly rated in both quality and sustainability. The capsules are constructed of 80 percent recyclable materials and compostable. They also have less plastic than traditional coffee bags and have a an economized carbon footprint. In addition, Nespresso partners with green-certified organizations to promote responsible farming and fair labour practices.
The Nespresso Vertuo range includes several machines that produce a thick, delicious cup of espresso or coffee with a great crema. VertuoPlus Deluxe and VertuoPlus models have advanced features, like automatic milk heating and adjustable drinks settings. These machines are easy-to-use and feature a sleek design that looks great on your kitchen counter.
Both the X and the Deluxe models have a large reservoir of water and a slim machine body. Centrifusion is a revolutionary extraction technology, uses up to 7,500 revolutions per minute for brewing the best coffee espresso machine or espresso. This creates a consistent, smooth crema that is highly saturated even in smaller cups.
Nespresso capsules are more expensive than third-party compatible pods available in supermarkets and online retailers. However, they are able to offer an array of flavors and intensities. The company also offers limited-edition products. The machines are easy to operate and the Vertuoline is simpler than Nespresso's original Nespresso that only makes espresso.
The Vertuoline also comes with two sizes of capsules - the smaller espresso size and the larger lungo size for those who prefer shorter drinks. The larger alto and mug capsules are suitable for hearty and mug-sized drinks that require a more intensely roasted coffee. Unlike some of the other pod machines that we have tested this one, the Nespresso Vertuoline also makes a excellent drip coffee.
2. Illy X7.1
This pod coffee maker is sleek, high-spec machine made using durable and attractive materials. It's a bit more expensive than the other machines that we've tested, but it delivers excellent, reliable performance and is a stylish design.
The X7.1 is a patented system that reads the barcode on each capsule to determine their identity. It then pre-wets and infuses the right amount of water automatically. This is a major benefit for those who like a simple automation. However, it may frustrate those who prefer to alter settings and choose their personal brew strength or size. The machine can dispense espresso double best espresso machine, gran lungo, alto and mug drinks, with a fine layer of crema.
In addition to its brewing technology in addition to its brewing technology, the X7.1 features a range of other features that make it stand out. For instance, it is one of the few coffee machines we have tested that has a height-adjustable drip tray to optimise the size and shape of the coffee mug. It also comes with a stainless-steel milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. The X7.1 features a sleep mode and a detachable holder for pods that makes cleaning easier.
It is compatible with most Keurig K-Cups and Nespresso capsules as well as Bruvi's own B-Pods. These pods differ from K-Cups and other popular pods because they are made up of ground coffee instead of a tea bag, and they have more caffeine than regular coffee. The Bruvi is also app compatible and can be programmed to brew remotely or according to a timetable. It also has a steam wand which can be used to make lattes and cappuccinos fluffy.
3. Grind One
The Grind One, designed in Stockholm It could be the right choice for you if you don't enjoy Nespresso capsules that are plastic or prefer something less as bulky. Two members of Real Homes' team have tried it in their kitchens, and they both love it. It's a sleek stainless-steel machine that looks elegant and is extremely simple to use. Simply place a pod, choose whether you'd like 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 is ready. There's no steam wand, nor milk carafe. However, you can top your best affordable coffee machine with hot or cold milk if you wish.
The great thing about this machine is that it's designed to work with Grind's own recyclable, plastic-free, and home compostable coffee pods. So not only are you decreasing the amount of coffee you waste (which can take hundreds of years to break down) but the pods themselves are made of no plastic and are completely organic. They cost around 50p each and you can dispose of them in your garden compost or in your food waste bin after they're empty.
The Grind One is PS275, and you can add a bundle with a milk frother for an additional PS325. It's more expensive than other Nespresso pod machines, but it is an elegant, well-designed, and versatile machine. It's also the smallest of the bunch so it won't take up any counter space, and it also has an elevated drip tray that latches onto the best bean to cup coffee machine sides of the waste bin to allow height adjustment.
4. Grind 2
For those who love simple and quick cups of coffee, this machine takes the hassle out making espresso. It can brew a quick or long shot, with three different settings for temperature and extraction. Our coffee aficionado was impressed by its ability to make an excellent espresso. Its crema (which should be a warm chestnut colour and last until the final sip) and temperature were perfect. Its sleek design and sturdy, attractive materials also made it stand out from the rest.
Our coffee enthusiast also tried the Grind One for its ease of use. The heavy-duty switch is enjoyable to use, and offers the option of programming your preferred short or long shot. It also comes with an easy-to-read display. You can even select whether to automatically pour a shot of hot water when you drink your espresso, which will help the grounds settle and enhances the flavor of your beverage. A milk frother that is useful is also included, which makes this pod coffee maker an ideal all-rounder.
Another advantage of these machines is that they eliminate the messiness out of making espresso grinding, dosing and tamping the beans. This decreases the amount of items that need to be cleaned up and reused, making them a better choice for those without much kitchen space. If you want to expand your options you can use an additional milk frother to make cappuccinos and lattes. You can also go with a manual coffee press, such as the Aeropress, which combines an environment-friendly design with an opulent taste that you get from a machine. However, it requires more effort from you and therefore we don't recommend it for everyone.
5. Lavazza Idola
Unlike the more expensive Lavazza Voicy pod coffee maker, this model does not include a milk maker but is ideal for those who enjoy espresso, ristretto or lungo. It's also one of the quietest machines on the market, meaning you can grab your morning coffee while your children are asleep.
You can set a cup size that is suitable for your taste and choose to boost the temperature to help your brew go through faster with the push of one button. You can also keep track on maintenance by getting alerts when the capsule bin is empty or the water tank requires to be topped off.
The machine is not able to froth milk however it can be used to make cappuccinos and flat whites with an additional container. Many customers have left glowing reviews on Amazon and John Lewis. They praise the machine's versatility, quiet operation, and different lengths of the brews.
While there aren't a huge amount of customer reviews there is a general consensus that this is a great value pod coffee maker for those who like an easy set-up. It's more expensive than the Nespresso Vertuo Pop but comes with the best rated Coffee machines Lavazza pods. It is also one of the most quiet machines on the market. If you want to make several different coffees, we suggest that you check out one of our top alternatives. For more information, read our full Lavazza Idola review.