Rating of the best capsule coffee machines for 2021

How to choose a capsule coffee machine

What is a capsule coffee machine

Capsule coffee machines differ from other types of coffee machines in that they do not prepare coffee from ground raw materials or grains. The consumables here are capsules in which coffee, cocoa, tea, milk, sugar and other ingredients are hermetically sealed. In a coffee machine, this container is pierced by a hollow needle: through it, the device releases hot water vapor, which passes through the capsule and thus creates, in fact, the drink. A capsule coffee machine can be called a relatively simple design. Both its advantages and disadvantages follow from this.

Pros and cons of capsule coffee machines

I'll start with the pros:

• Capsule coffee machines are cheap: cheaper than other coffee machines. There are, of course, premium devices that cost tens of thousands of rubles, but these are exceptions;
• Capsule coffee is always of the same quality and quite decent. The quality control systems of modern factories do not sleep, so when you pour a drink into a cup, you will get exactly the taste you expect. There is no need to bother with finding decent beans of normal roasting and grinding them: you just need to buy capsules and a good result is guaranteed;
• Capsule coffee machines are easy to operate, and the influence of the human factor on the final result is excluded. A cheap capsule coffee maker is controlled by literally one or two buttons and prepares a cappuccino with thick foam or a three-layer latte in just a minute - something cannot be spoiled no matter how much you want;
• The range of capsule drinks is very wide: there are dozens of varieties of coffee, cocoa, and tea.

Unfortunately, there were also some downsides:

• high cost of operation: the low price of coffee machines is more than offset by the price of capsules. They are disposable and not very cheap. In a couple of years, cheap capsule and expensive geyser coffee machines will be equal in cost;
• The range of drinks is wide, but not endless, and each coffee machine can only load one specific type of capsule. And unlike regular coffee, you most likely won’t be able to buy capsules at the convenience store on the corner: they are not sold everywhere.

In principle, both of these disadvantages can be overcome by using capsules from third-party manufacturers. There are even reusable capsules into which ground coffee is filled, but washing them after each use is still a pleasure, although the savings are very decent.

What types of capsule coffee machines are there?

Types of capsules . Our stores offer capsule coffee machines from three main brands: Nespresso, Dolce Gusto and Tassimo. There is no fundamental difference between them. The choice is a matter of taste, but you have to make it, because a capsule coffee maker for Nespresso will not digest, say, Tassimo. Just focus on the types of drinks offered in stores under different brands and choose what you like best.

Operating pressure . A key indicator for all other types of coffee makers, which does not play any role for capsule coffee machines. Capsules of each variety are designed for their own pressure: for Tassimo it is 3.3 bar, for Dolce Gusto - 15 bar, and for Nespresso - as much as 19 bar. Both cheap and expensive coffee machines for compatible capsules produce exactly the pressure they need. So, don't bother yourself with technical details.

Material . Most coffee machines are made of plastic with metal parts. Premium devices may have an all-metal body, but they also cost accordingly.

Water tank volume . Usually, cheaper coffee machines have a small water tank volume: somewhere from half a liter. This is enough for home use, but for an office it is better to choose a more spacious option.

General concept of a capsule coffee machine

Capsule-type coffee makers are modern devices that involve the use of portioned pods. The system works automatically, the user only needs to select the desired parameters (strength, volume, etc.).

Principle of operation

All models operate according to 1 scheme. The capsule loaded into the compartment is pierced with a needle, and then liquid is drawn through it under high pressure. The brewing process takes no more than 1 minute, and the taste is not inferior to espresso prepared in a coffee shop.

Device

The system consists of several main components:

1. Boiler. Heats cold water to the desired temperature.
2. Dispenser. Controls the amount of liquid supplied.
3. Module for brewing and inserting capsules. Responsible for clamping and piercing, dumping the waste container.
4. Pump. Creates increased pressure.
5. Control block. Regulates the synchronous operation of all mechanisms.

Coffee machine device.

Differences from grain

Both models are suitable for preparing delicious espresso, but they have several differences:

1. Working speed: capsule - 30 seconds, and grain - minutes.
2. Size: The first one is portable and the second one is the size of a microwave.
3. Cost: 5-15 thousand rubles. versus 10-40 thousand rubles.
4. Cooking process: capsule - automatic, grain - controlled by a person.

The best capsule coffee maker for the office

Delonghi EN 125 S

A coffee machine with a solid appearance will look good somewhere in the office, despite the small volume of the water tank. It works with Nespresso capsules and is not cheap (12,000 rubles). You can select the volume of water to prepare espresso (40 ml, button with a small cup) and lungo (110 ml, button with a larger cup). To program the coffee machine for the desired volume of water, you need to press and hold the start button. It turns off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity (this time can be increased to half an hour), and warms up in just 25 seconds. Automatically sends used capsules to the container. For some reason, the capsule container is equipped with neon lighting.

Price: ₽ 10,450

Rating of the best models

This list includes products that have a good combination of price and quality.

They were selected based on several parameters:

1. Price.
2. Electricity consumption.
3. Durability.
4. Popular with buyers.

Xiaomi Scishare Capsule Coffee Machine S1103

Portable and silent model with a lever to regulate the amount of liquid. A person can adjust the espresso dose from 15 to 85 ml, and in manual mode up to 180 ml.

The case is equipped with a backlight that tells you when all the drink has been poured into the cup. Has a container for used capsules for 10 pieces.

Compatible with Nespresso capsules. The pump pressure is 19 bar.

Model Xiaomi Scishare Capsule Coffee Machine S1103.

Caffitaly S06

Operating the device is quite simple, because... The on-board computer independently chooses when to wet the grains, pierce and remove the capsules. For cooking, you can turn on the dispenser adjustment. It allows you to insert high cups. And the Panarello attachment will turn espresso into cappuccino or latte.

Caffitaly s22 Bianko

The coffee machine prepares espresso and latte. Using the pressure regulator, you can select the volume of espresso up to 200 ml.

The car has a pleasant minimalistic appearance.

The case is compact, so the device can be moved freely around the room. In addition, there is a cappuccino maker for frothing milk.

KitchenAid 5kes0503eac Artisan Nespresso

This machine is suitable for preparing espresso, lungo and ristretto. The highest pressure is 19 bar, which is enough to prepare delicious espresso in 1 minute. A set of pods with several types of powder is included in the kit.

Nespresso C30 Essenza Mini

This classic capsule coffee machine comes in several colors. The on-board computer monitors energy consumption, so after 8-9 minutes it will automatically turn off. There are 2 main programs preset: 40 ml espresso and 110 ml lungo.

Bosch Tas 7001EE/7002/7004EE Tassimo

The Bosch model works on Tassimo capsules, which have special technology. Each has a barcode, which will help artificial intelligence understand which scheme needs to be applied.

It takes into account the amount of water and temperature to get the highest quality finished drink. There is a built-in descaling function.

Bosch Tas 1401/1402/1403/1404/1407 Tassimo

The capsule coffee maker has a 700 ml water tank. The user can choose the espresso strength and cup size. The high stand is manually adjustable. Caring for the device will not cause problems, because... There is a self-cleaning program.

Bosch Tas 1401/1402/1403/1404/1407 Tassimo with self-cleaning program.

Bosch Tassimo Suny Tas3205

This model prepares a cup of espresso in 2 minutes. It is also compatible with Tassimo, but can work with reusable ones. The case comes in several colors and is equipped with backlighting.

Bosch Tas1252 Tassimo Vivy

The on-board computer recognizes the type of pod by barcode. The user just needs to insert the disc into the brewing unit and press the button. The device is equipped with a flow-through water heater that provides rapid boiling of liquid with minimal energy consumption.

De'longhi Nespresso Lattissima One EN 500

This is a beautiful little capsule coffee maker with a built-in milk frother.

To brew coffee, 2 keys are used: espresso (40 ml) and lungo (110 ml).

The user can reset the factory settings and independently select the desired programs. The volume of the boiling water tank is 1 liter. Uses Nespresso capsules.

De'longhi Nespresso EN 85 AE Essenza Mini

The new capsule device combines ease of use, minimalistic design and high build quality. A wide palette of colors will make it easy to fit the device into any interior.

De'longhi Nespresso EN 85 AE Essenza Mini.

De'longhi Nespresso Pixie EN 125

Features of this model:

1. The Pixie design complements the kitchen interior.
2. Due to its small size, it can be placed in any part of the room.
3. Cooking time is 25 seconds.
4. The pump pressure reaches 19 bar.
5. Automatic shutdown occurs after 10 minutes.

De'longhi Nespresso Inissia EN 80 ae

The unit is decorated in pleasant colors, and the design is made according to the “Inissia” scheme. The weight is 2 kg, so the coffee machine can be moved around the apartment. Artificial intelligence turns off the heating element after 9 minutes.

Nespresso De'longhi EN 80 Inissia

The capsule coffee maker brews delicious espresso at home. The pump pressure reaches 19 bar, which allows you to preserve the aroma of the coffee bean and get a rich taste. The device consumes 1260 W, so cooking time and energy consumption are minimal.

Model Nespresso De'longhi EN 80 Inissia.

Nespresso De'longhi Latissima Touch EN 550

A special feature of this model is a cappuccino maker that froths milk until foamy. The user can control the operation of the gadget using 4 keys. And the rotary control adjusts the intensity and thickness of the foam. In total, the computer contains about 20 programs for processing capsules.

Nespresso Delonghi EN 85.bae

This stylish and reliable capsule machine also has a milk frother. However, many reviews contain information that this module is often defective and does not work. The pump pressure is 19 bar, the capsule is pierced automatically.

Krups Dolce Gusto KP 100b

It has a classic but bright design. The volume of the hot water tank is 0.6 l, so the model is suitable only for home use. High pressure will allow you to get gentle foam, and the system of reasonable energy consumption will turn off the device after 5 minutes.

Krups KP 350b Dolce Gusto

This is a capsule coffee machine with an unusual design. It has a convenient touch panel and a tray for waste pods. Works with Dolce Gusto containers. It can brew not only espresso, but also latte, cappuccino and cocoa. The pressure is 15 bar.

Coffee machine brand Krups KP 350b Dolce Gusto.

Krups KP 1006

This capsule device is easy to use. It is enough to pour water into the reservoir, put the capsule in the compartment and lower the lever. Using the adjustable stand, the user can adjust the maximum height of the cup.

Krups KP 1105

Capsule coffee machine Krups Oblo KP 1105 Nescafe Dolce Gusto is a compact model made in an original stylish design. With this machine you can prepare more than 25 types of coffee drinks, both hot and cold.

Krups Piccolo Nescafe Dolce Gusto

This is a classic car, decorated in the style of "Picallo". It can brew espresso without user intervention. All a person needs to do is click one button. The water reservoir has a volume of 600 ml, so the device will prepare 6-7 cups at a time.

Krups Dolce Gusto KP 1301/1305/1308 Lumio

Minimalist design and a wide range of functions in the automatic capsule machine provide a good combination of price and quality. And thanks to modern technologies, a computer can brew more than 20 drinks.

Bork c830 Nespresso Creatista Plus

The C830 capsule coffee machine allows you to choose one of 7 recipes, froth milk or prepare your own cocktail in the Barista personal settings mode.

Lavazza lm500

The device prepares lungo and espresso. Using a separate button, a person controls how much powder to use for 1 cup. The design allows for adjustable drip mesh height to accommodate tall mugs and low cups.

Coffee machine brand Lavazza lm500.

The best capsule coffee maker for home

4. Dolce Gusto Krups Piccolo KP100B10

The younger sister of the Krups Mini Me discussed above. Designed for Dolce Gusto capsules. It looks like either a drinking bird or just an abstract sculpture - the corporate design cannot be confused with anything, but, in my opinion, it looks prettier. Unlike the older model, Piccolo does not have a water level selector, so any volume can be passed through the capsule: the required amount will have to be measured by eye. Well, or buy branded Dolce Gusto glasses for different drinks. A reliable and simple machine for 3,500 rubles from the “my first coffee maker” series. This one has been working for five years now without any complaints.

Price: RUB 3,999

The best budget capsule coffee maker

Bosch Tassimo VIVY II

One of the most affordable coffee machines on the market. Works with Tassimo capsules. The device reads information about time, temperature and other parameters for preparing the drink directly from the capsule barcode, so control couldn’t be simpler, literally with one button. Prepares cappuccino with excellent, dense and stable foam. Options in red and white cases look very bright and elegant, in black - strictly, but still nice. There are self-cleaning functions for descaling and automatic shutdown. The water reservoir is not very spacious, but this is the problem with all inexpensive capsule coffee makers. An excellent first coffee machine for those who want to try capsule coffee, but are not ready to splurge on a more expensive device.

Price: ₽ 2,490

The best capsule coffee maker with cappuccino function

Krups KP 1208 Mini Me

A coffee machine that works with Dolce Gusto capsules already costs 5,000 rubles. In addition to the power button, there are two control elements. Use the water quantity selector to select the level indicated on the coffee capsule, and use the lever to choose between hot and cold water. A 0.8 liter water tank is not much, but enough for the home. There is no descaling function, but there is an auto shut-off. To make a cappuccino or other complex drink, you need to use two capsules: one with coffee and one with milk. Not very convenient, but allows an inexpensive device to prepare good coffee with excellent foam. The appearance is a little strange, but this can be said about all Krups coffee makers from this series, it’s a matter of taste.

Price: ₽ 4,890

Dolce gusto

Dolce gusto coffee capsules are produced by Nescafe, that is, the same huge Nestle corporation. We are unlikely to ever find out why they needed to create a separate type of capsule, but Dolce gusto capsules are quite different from Nespresso. The main difference is 26 varieties of capsules; Among them there is only one type of coffee, but there are various coffee and chocolate drinks and even tea. Powdered milk comes in a separate capsule; you don’t need to pour it into the cappuccino maker yourself: just pour coffee from one capsule, throw it out of the machine, insert a capsule with milk and add it to the same cup.

The coffee machines for these capsules are produced exclusively by Krups. They have a more rounded and toy design, compared to coffee machines of their own production for the Nespresso line. But their price is significantly lower. If you come across a successful promotion, you can even get a basic coffee machine from the line for free or almost for nothing by purchasing a solid set of capsules. The black coffee capsules themselves are also a little cheaper, but the kits for drinks with milk are twice as expensive. The cost of the car for different models is from 3,500 rubles. up to 10,000 rub.

Be careful: cheap models do not have the ability to automatically adjust the amount of water, although this is indicated in the description of the models in some online stores (read the reviews!). That is, you turned the lever and must return it to its place when enough coffee has been poured. If you don't do this, water will continue to flow until the tank runs out. For more expensive models of the line, you can set the cup volume.

The best premium capsule coffee maker

1. KitchenAid 5KES0503EAC Artisan Nespresso

Coffee machine for Nespresso capsules. Like all KitchenAid products - good quality, beautiful, heavy and insanely expensive (47,000 rubles). Finally, a normal water tank of almost one and a half liters. Six levels of cup volume adjustment. The case with a magnificent retro style design is made of aluminum alloy - this handsome guy weighs 8.5 kilos, about the same as all previous coffee makers combined. And it costs exactly twice as much. But just look at the colors, the curves and the awesome capsule piercing handle! A true coffee lover's dream.

Price: ₽ 40,790

Comparison table of the best capsule coffee makers

Krups KP 1201/1205/1206/1208 Mini Me: miniature sizes with immense possibilities

The Krups KP MINI ME capsule coffee machine, the series series of which consists of models 1201 (the main body color is white), 1205 (red), 1206 (purple) and 1208 (black), belongs to the class of automatic household capsule coffee machines.

The designation MINI ME indicates the miniature size of the coffee maker , only 30 cm in height and less than 25 cm in diameter, so there will always be a place for it in the kitchen.

Thanks to Thermoblock technology, the water quickly heats up to the desired temperature. Equipped with an energy-saving automatic shutdown system.

The power of this model is 1500 W , the volume of the water tank is 0.8 l - enough for 2-3 cups of coffee.

The maximum pressure created by the pump is 15 bar , the average drink preparation time is 30 seconds.

The body is made of plastic.

Functions

Main characteristics:

• Capsules used: Dolce Gusto.
• A thermoblock is used as a heater.
• For convenience, an automatic shutdown function is installed: the device will turn off after several minutes of inactivity
• There is a hot water supply.
• There is a container for waste.
• The removable drip tray keeps the area around the device clean.
• There is an indication of inclusion.
• Capsule indicator installed.
• There is a height-adjustable cup stand - you can use cups and glasses up to 10 cm high.
• The Krups KP MINI ME coffee maker uses Nescafe capsules from the Dolce Gusto series.
• 7 types of espresso: regular espresso, Barista espresso (rich roast coffee), Ristretto espresso (medium roast), Decaffeinato espresso (decaf), Intenso espresso (strong coffee), Cortado espresso (with milk), espresso with caramel aroma.
• 6 types of black coffee : Café Au Lait (coffee with milk), Lungo Mild (light coffee), Cafè Crema Grande (classic black coffee), Lungo (rich coffee), Americano (weak coffee), Café Grande Intenso (coffee with intense flavor) and aroma).
• 5 types of coffee with airy foam: Vanilla Latte Macchiato, Caramel Latte Macchiato, low-calorie Skinny cappuccino, classic cappuccino, Latte Macchiato with a high milk content.
• 4 types of chocolate: Mocha, Nesquik, Chocochino, caramel-flavored chocolate.
• You can also prepare iced coffee - iced cappuccino and Chai Tea Latte with spices and milk.

The Krups KP 1201/1205/1206/1208 Mini Me coffee maker specializes in automatically preparing expresso coffee. In addition to supplying hot water, it provides for adjusting the volume of portions.

The removable cup stand is adjustable in height, allowing you to use different sized glasses and cups. And to save energy, an energy-saving mode is provided.

Peculiarities

Key Features:

• The coffee maker is made of high quality plastic.
• A wide range of colors - available in white, black, lilac and red.

• The coffee maker allows you to regulate the water level in the prepared drink. Structurally, there are 7 levels.
• You can choose which drink, strong or softer, will be prepared using this coffee machine using the strength control function, which is also included in this coffee maker.
• There is a lever for switching the water temperature from hot to cold.
• Operating the coffee maker is very simple and intuitive. Everything is indicated by graphic images and symbols on the case.

Advantages

Main advantages:

• It is very easy to operate thanks to the symbols on the front panel of the coffee maker.
• The coffee preparation process is as automated as possible.
• High preparation speed allows you to quickly get the desired drink.
• Adjusting the water level will satisfy the wishes of any coffee lover.
• The system is also equipped with a protection mechanism that prevents the device from operating if the containers are installed incorrectly or the container is connected incorrectly.
• Possibility of using reusable capsules (for 50-60 servings of drink).

Flaws

The disadvantages of this model are the following:

• impossibility of simultaneously preparing two cups of drink.
• No display.
• Cord length. The power cord is quite short, meaning the coffee maker can only be installed next to an outlet or using an extension cord.

Video review

An example of making great coffee in the video below:

Video presentation of this coffee machine from the manufacturer, in the video below:

Bottom line

A capsule-type coffee machine is perfect for quickly preparing a flavorful drink at home.

The design and execution are excellent. The technology of capsule preparation itself is interesting and progressive.

Perfect for people leading an intense lifestyle and coffee lovers . For a small family who loves to spend time with a cup of coffee, a stylish and miniature coffee maker is an excellent option.

Thanks to a large selection of colors, it will easily fit into any interior.