Get exclusive shopping offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.
Compare capsule coffee machines
Find the best pod coffee machine is the right fit for you.
TRENDING
Buying Guides
Financing Options
Our top picks
CHULUX Single Serve Coffee Maker Brewer for Single Cup Capsule with 12 Ounce Reservoir
If you’re looking for a capsule coffee maker on a budget, CHULUX is a solid choice. The brewer retails for $39.99 and comes in a lightweight, portable design. You’ll get a tasty cup of coffee within three minutes and enjoy a handy auto shut-off button, so you never have to worry about overheating.
Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi, Grey
Splurge on this ultra-sleek design, which comes with four espresso capsules and eight regular coffee capsules. Heating is lightning fast — between 20 to 25 seconds — and a motorized brew head makes it super easy to insert capsules.
Keurig K-Select Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Made by the signature brewing manufacturer Keurig, this coffee maker is ultra quiet and can brew multiple cup sizes (6, 8, 10 and 12 oz). The straightforward design makes the process super easy and you can brew five cups before refilling.
illy Y3.2 iperEspresso Espresso & Coffee Machine
Made by the signature brewing manufacturer Keurig, this coffee maker is ultra quiet and can brew multiple cup sizes (6, 8, 10 and 12 oz). The straightforward design makes the process super easy and you can brew five cups before refilling.
How do capsule coffee machines work?
Capsule coffee machines use capsules or pods of coffee beans wrapped in filter paper. The pods are about the same size and shape as a single-serve UHT milk carton that you might find in a hotel room or on the plane and are sealed to retain freshness for up to nine months.
Capsules are inserted directly into your coffee machine, and they’re pierced to allow hot water to mix with the contents, producing an espresso. There are many different capsule flavors to choose from and these machines don’t require intensive cleaning after every coffee-making session, which makes them a no-fuss, low-maintenance option.
However, with a capsule coffee machine, while you’ll be able to control how diluted you want your shot of coffee, you’ll be restricted to preset options rather than tailoring a perfect cup of coffee. You may also find that the intensity of the coffee flavor is weaker than a professional coffee maker.
If you’re a coffee aficionado, check out our list of the best coffee machines.
Types of capsule coffee machines
- Capsule-only. Most capsule coffee machines will only operate on capsules or pods. Sufficient for simple home or office use, serious coffee drinkers looking to fully customize their cup of joe may be better off investing in a more elaborate coffee machine.
- Semiautomatic and capsule. If you’re willing to spend more on a coffee machine that has both semiautomatic and capsule coffee functionalities, you’ll probably find a more satisfying taste and easy machine maintenance.
How to compare capsule coffee machines
Before deciding which coffee machine to purchase, consider the following key factors:
Taste
If you can, try to taste a sample from the coffee machine you’re interested in to make sure you’re satisfied with the crema, aroma, flavours, creaminess and aftertaste. Look for a machine that’s compatible with a range of capsules.
Temperature consistency
If the coffee machine is probably going to be heavily used within a short span of time – for example, if the machine is going to be shared in a large office– look for one that has a high temperature consistency score.
Milk frothing quality
Some capsule coffee machines will use a milk frother, milk-based capsule or coffee capsule with milk poured over it. Decide which you prefer and find out what options your selected machine is compatible with.
Ease of use
How easy to operate are the coffee machine’s functions? Check if filling the water tank is simple and if the machine easy to clean both inside and outside.
Size
Consider how much kitchen-top space you have. For those with little benchtop space, it would be more practical to pick a compact, miniature, portable or storable model.
Customizability
Some models offer personalised functions such as pre-programmable coffee settings, adjustable water and milk temperatures and steam pump rates. More-advanced models let you choose the style and temperature of the froth.
Heat-up and frothing times
If you’ll be sharing the machine with a large number of coffee drinkers, it’s important to consider how efficiently and quickly the machine heats and froths milk.
Recyclable
For those who are concerned about the environment, it’s important to find a coffee machine that allows you to recycle the coffee pods. Some manufacturers have their own recycling scheme.
Capacity
Consider how large the capacity of the drip tray and water tank are. The larger the capacity, the less time you’ll have to spend refilling and maintaining your coffee machine.
Digital display
Is the digital screen easy to read and are the functions easy to control?
Warranty
Look for a coffee machine that has a warranty of at least six months to one year.
Cup-warming plate
If you won’t be drinking your coffee immediately, a machine with a cup-warming plate is a nice addition.
What to watch out for
While capsules are convenient and easy to use they typically cost more per cup than coffee beans. Also, a single coffee machine brand is typically only compatible with its own line of capsules.
Before purchasing your chosen coffee machine, take a taste test from a variety of brands.
Bottom line
Knowing whether a capsule coffee maker is the right purchase for you will take some investigating — especially if you’re a die-hard coffee drinker. Be sure to shop around and see what will best suit your space, budget and taste.
More guides on Finder
-
Compare printers: How to choose between inkjet and laser printers
We’ll walk you through the steps to choose a new printer for your home or office.
-
These are the best Cyber Week kitchen deals this week
Right now, save $100 on a KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, 40% off Breville Coffee Maker and more.
-
Where to buy coffee pods online
Enjoy a brew from your very own carafe with coffee pods and capsules. Here’s where to buy them online.
-
Coffee grinder buying guide
How to find the right coffee grinder for your favourite roasts and coffee styles.
-
Popular small kitchen appliances
Add some of these handy tools to your kitchen to make meal prep a breeze.
-
Drip coffee maker buying guide
Brew a perfect pot every time with these leading drip coffee makers.
-
Compare the best bread makers
If you want to make your own delicious bread at home, this guide will show you how to compare bread makers and find the right one for your kitchen.
-
Compare the best sewing machines
If you want to buy a sewing machine but don’t know where to start, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best sewing machine for your needs.
-
Compare the best designer kettles
If you’re craving a good cup of tea but also love living the luxe life, these kettles can help you create a brew that will have you relaxing in seconds.
-
The 4 best espresso machines of 2020
We’ve found the best espresso machines to suit your needs, so you don’t have to spend hours searching for the perfect fit.
Ask an Expert