Coffee machines: Choosing a coffee machine Pod coffee machines
Capsule coffee machines are increasingly popular
Coffee fanatics might argue that using a pod machine is cheating your way to a cup of coffee, but for there's no denying they're a quick and hassle free route to a homemade espresso. Capsule coffee machines offer espresso for the microwave ready-meal generation – and those of us who lead busy lives.
Instead of faffing around with loose coffee, you simply add a pre-packaged pot of coffee to your machine, press a button, and wait for espresso to drip out of the spout.
Pods and capsule coffee
'Easy serving espresso' (ESE) pods are a pad of coffee wrapped in filter paper. Coffee capsules are hermetically sealed pots of ground coffee that are inserted into an espresso machine. The machine pierces the capsule and forces hot water through to make espresso. Like pods, they contain just enough coffee for one shot and are mess-free.
Some coffee machines are compatible with both coffee pods and ground coffee.
Capsule and pod machines
Pods and capsules are effectively just a different way of packaging ground coffee - the real taste test lies in how effectively the pod machine is able to extract the flavour from the coffee. Our Best Buy pod coffee machines achieve just that.
Capsule coffee machines are easy to use and clean, extremely convenient and there are plenty of options well below the £200 mark. Quality can vary though, so check our coffee machine reviews to be sure you're buying the best machine.
Many coffee machines also take pods
The main downside is that most capsule machines only take one type of capsule (eg Nespresso, Dolce Gusto) and, though most ranges offer several varieties, you’re limited to the options they supply.
What’s more, the coffee you'll get from a capsule machine is pricey. Making a single cup can cost around 22p – whereas a typical espresso made with ground coffee is around 8p.
Pod and capsule coffee machines on test
Use our coffee machine product finder tool to compare features and prices of capsule coffee machines.
We've tested more than 20 pod coffee machines - including capsule and pod machines from Gaggia, Kitchenaid, Dualit, DeLonghi, Lavazza and Magimix.
Rewind our coffee machines live event
Which? experts were joined by top coffee connoisseur, Whittard's Giles Hilton, and Bob Payman, who's been selling and servicing machines for 15 years, for a live chat. We were kept busy with your questions on the best coffee makers and how to perfect your espresso making.
Missed it? Log in to replay the Q&A in full at Which.co.uk/coffeelive.
