13 best coffee pod and capsule machines to buy in 2023
Surprisingly affordable, shoppers say this stylish pod machine makes coffee as good as a “barista-made coffee”.
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We all know that, as delicious as it is, going out for a barista-made coffee at your local cafe every day may not be the most convenient or economical decision, so investing in your own machine for home is a good alternative.
Coffee pod machines – also known as coffee capsule machines – are incredible easy to use. Pop the capsule in, press a button and voila, you’ve got yourself a cup of tasty coffee ready to go.
They tailor to all skill levels, which is why Nespresso’s Coffee Ambassador Mitch Monaghan believes pod machines make the perfect kitchen appliance.
“The beauty of capsule coffee machines is that they are suited to everyone from beginners to coffee aficionados – essentially anyone enjoys high-quality coffee, without the hassle,” he told news.com.au.
“Beginners can be easily guided on their DIY coffee journey, while connoisseurs use the technology in these types of machines to explore an in-depth variety of coffee blends differing in origins, richness, acidity, flavour profiles and more.”
Our top picks? The Nespresso Vertuo Pop Solo we reviewed and the portable Wacaco mini travel coffee maker over 4200 customers are loving right now.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best coffee pod machine for your needs and budget, we asked Nespresso’s Coffee Ambassador Mitch Monaghan for his expert advice and recommendations on what to look for when buying a coffee pod machine. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best coffee pod machine from premium to budget to help you find the right one. We also tested a few well-known brands at different price points.
OUR TOP PICKS
In this article
- Features to look for in a coffee pod and capsule machine
- Are pod coffee machines worth it?
- Can you use any capsule in pod coffee machines?
- Can you recycle coffee pods?
- What does ‘bar’ mean in a coffee machine?
- What’s the difference between a coffee pod and coffee capsule?
BEST OVERALL POD COFFEE MACHINES
Nespresso Vertuo Pop Coffee Machine, $229 at Nespresso
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
A good coffee machine is essential in any modern household, even more so these days with the cost of a cup of coffee at a cafe rising seemingly every day. This is why I was very excited to try the new Vertuo Pop from Nespresso.*
First things first, the size of this machine is super convenient. It is 136 x 426 x 250mm and fits easily on my kitchen bench without taking up too much space. I have it in the red colourway and love the pop of colour against my neutral splashback. But if you’re not into colour, it is also available in black and white too.
In terms of usability, the Vertuo Pop couldn’t be easier. To set up, you simply had to fill the water tank and rinse the machine by pressing a button. Once this was done, you were good to go. Similarly, it was the same process to actually make the coffee except, of course, it involved inserting a capsule. And again, filling the tank and pressing the same button were also involved for cleaning and descaling. Could it get any simpler?
Plus, the CENTRIFUSION™ technology works to scan the barcode of the pod and make the perfect-sized coffee every time. From little espressos to large mugs of coffee, the Vertuo Pop has you sorted.
It also is Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatible. While I did log in and set up the app, to be honest, most of the time I didn’t use it. But if you love a bit of extra tech in your life then this is for you.
In terms of coffee flavour, I must admit I am a little bit of a coffee snob. For this reason alone, I have been somewhat reluctant to even try a coffee pod machine. Could anything really beat a barista-made coffee? But, I was very happily surprised by just how good the coffee was. I normally drink a small cappuccino and the Bianco Piccolo pod was my favourite.
I also used the Aeroccino3 Milk Frother to froth my milk. The first time I used it, I did froth the milk for too long and my cappuccino looked like something from a 90s American sitcom. After that incident, however, I quickly figured out how long was needed to achieve the perfect level of frothiness.
And the best part? It is surprisingly affordable. At $229 is pretty incredible for a coffee machine. Overall, I would definitely recommend the Vertuo Pop if you’re in the market for a new coffee pod machine.
*Product has been provided by Nespresso for a 100 per cent independent, honest review.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Next Premium Bundle, $419 at Myer
What You Need To Know
Forget going to a cafe and sip and save on some coffee at home. And what better way than with Nespresso, which many Australian consumers ranked best for ease of use in Canstar Blue’s latest coffee pod machine ratings.
This compact Vertuo Next bundle is a mid-priced option that comes with an Aeroccino3 milk frother, which can whip up both hot and cold drinks. To make things simple, the coffee machine itself has an auto dosing function while the frother contains markings to show how much milk you need to pour. The pack even includes 12 capsules to get you started.
“The Vertuo is my favourite coffee pod machine,” one shopper wrote.
“This new unit does not disappoint, especially with the bonus pod selection. The pods might be a little bit more expensive but they create a creamy smooth espresso. The unit worked beautifully straight out of the box.”
Homemaid 3-in-1 Coffee Multi Capsule Pod Machine, $159 at Myer
What You Need To Know
Get you a coffee machine that does both – brew coffee grounds and coffee pods. This 3-in-1 machine is ideal for those that have a partner or family that like their coffee made differently. This machine features three buttons on the top – power, short cup and long cup, a removable 600ml water tank and a 19 bar pump.
It measures 11 x 27 x 25cm – so it’s quite compact and good to pop onto your kitchen benchtop.
Shoppers love the 3-in-1 feature and how “easy” it is to use.
“This is the most practical and reasonably priced dual purpose coffee machine. My daughter uses coffee pods and I use coffee granules and we now have a machine that suits both our needs. Easy to use and clean. All machines should be made like or similar to this method,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“Fantastic coffee machine, it can do pods plus ground coffee. I love it,” another wrote.
BEST BUDGET POD COFFEE MACHINES
Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Plus Espresso Machine, $99 at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
Always find yourself rushing to make a coffee in the morning – and end up spending your money on something lacklustre? The Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Plus capsule coffee machine has a 0.6 litre water tank and a dual selection program that lets you whip up an espresso or lungo with just a touch of a button. It also comes with a removable cup rest, allowing you to adjust between drink sizes.
“This little machine is just superb. Great coffee. Easy to use and clean and looks great on my kitchen bench,” one shopper commented on The Good Guys website.
Nescafé Dolce Gusto Genio S Plus Coffee Machine, $179 at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
Some days you need a stronger coffee hit than others, so it’s great the Nescafé Gusto Genio S Plus gives the option to create a more intense and concentrated espresso by wetting the coffee before brewing. The machine also goes up to 15 bars, which lets you drink everything from simple black coffees to lattes with a thick velvety crema. You can additionally choose the XL function to whip up an extra large mug (up to 300ml).
“Can’t go past this brilliant machine! Highly recommended! If your after an inexpensive coffee pod machine then this is the one,” an Amazon customer commented.
“Very good capsule coffee machine. Doesn’t take too much space on the kitchen counter. Coffee always taste good and hot. The extra feature of extra hot and stronger coffee is a real life saver when doing an early morning shift,” another reviewer posted on The Good Guys website.
BEST LUXURY POD COFFEE MACHINES
Nespresso By Breville Creatista Plus Capsule Coffee Machine, $849 (down from $949) at Myer
What You Need To Know
If you’re on the hunt for a coffee machine that will make barista-style coffee from the comfort of your own home, it may be worth spending a little more cash. This stands out with its steam wand, a feature that isn’t usually available on most capsule coffee machines, as well as a digital display, which can guide you on how to make and personalise your drink.
This Breville Nespresso machine promises a short three second heat up time and a bunch of programmable settings to adjust milk temperature and more.
Nespresso by Breville Creatista Uno Capsule Coffee Machine, $549 (down from $699) at Myer
What You Need To Know
Enjoy the ease and convenience of pod coffee with this Breville Nespresso coffee machine. Simply pop in your capsule and press any of the six preset buttons to make a ristretto, espresso, lungo, caffe latte, cappuccino or a latte macchiato. You can also use the fully automatic steam wand for either steamed or froth milk. But the best part? It uses a ThermoJet heating element, which promises a three second heat up time.
“This is my second Nespresso machine. My first is still going strong after 11 years. I LOVE this machine. The temperature settings are true as are the milk settings. The froth is perfect and I love the self cleaning function on the steamer wand,” an impressed customer wrote.
“No regrets getting this machine. Compared to other machines that cost more, this is simple to use and value for money.”
Lavazza Smeg A Modo Mio Capsule Coffee Machine, $349 at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
A list of luxe appliances isn’t complete without mentioning Smeg. Thanks to its collaboration with Lavazza, you can enjoy the much loved retro design with the popular Lavazza A Modo Mio pod machine range.
Unlike other capsule coffee machines, this model doesn’t tailor to milk-based beverages with preset buttons for lattes or cappuccinos. Instead, it has two pre-dosed and programmable drink options for anyone who loves a good espresso or lungo. The unit also promises an 0.9 litre water tank and a quick heat up time of 30 seconds.
“Stunning hot red colour, very simple to operate and clean. Lavazza coffee pods make outstanding coffee with good crema. Visitors are genuinely impressed with the flavour,” a reviewer posted on The Good Guys website.
BEST COMPACT POD COFFEE MACHINES
Nespresso by De’Longhi Essenza Mini Capsule Coffee Machine, $149 at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
This pocket rocket weighs just more than 2.3 kilograms, making it ideal if you have very little space or want a full-size machine that’s still easily portable. Similar to larger models, this unit has a heat up time of 25 seconds and offers two cup sizes.
“Easy to use pod coffee machine, takes Nespresso pods and most supermarket brand pods. Well worth the price,” a Myer customer posted.
“We have had a few pod machines over the years, this one is the best, quieter & more compact. It looks great on the kitchen bench top & we also plan to take it travelling with us in our caravan,” another person wrote.
De’Longhi Nespresso Citiz Solo Capsule Coffee Machine, $229 at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
Described by reviewers on The Good Guys website as being “so easy” and “affordable and great quality”, the De’Longhi Nespresso Citiz Solo Machine should be at the top of your list.
The sleek machine offers a retro-style that’s super compact and will look great on your kitchen countertop. The coffee promises to heat up in just 25 seconds, offering two different cup positions for both short and tall cups.
The machine switches off after not being in use for nine minutes, and also has an extra large water tank and a capsule container that holds up to 11 used capsules.
BEST PORTABLE POD COFFEE MACHINE
Wacaco Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine, $79.99 at BCF
What You Need To Know
If innovation is at the top of your list – and you’re looking for something convenient – you are going to absolutely love this little gadget.
For just under $80, you can grab this portable espresso machine. It’s operated just by hand, no air or electricity needed for power.
“The coffee extracted from the Minipresso tastes exactly the same as the Nespresso machine,” an Amazon customer posted, calling it the “best product ever for coffee addicts”.
“Takes up little storage room and provides a much improved alternative to powdered coffee when camping off grid,” another person posted.
BEST POD COFFEE MACHINES WITH A MILK FROTHER
Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa, $300 (down from $349) at Amazon Australia
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, Shopping Writer
Lavazza’s A Modo Mio Deséa continues to be one of the most talked about capsule coffee machines on the market, offering more customisability than many new models (and for a lot less). We’re talking five milk-based preset recipes, adjustable foam and temperature control, and even the ability to queue up drinks.
I can see why Lavazza’s Deséa pod machine has been a decent buy for many customers.
It heats up quickly, works fairly quiet, and allows for plenty of customisation despite it’s affordable price tag. The model is also both easy to use and clean. Plus, the compact white design also looks fantastic on the kitchen bench.
*Product was loaned by Lavazza for a 100 per cent independent, honest review.
Nespresso by De’Longhi Inissia & Milk Capsule Coffee Maker, $249 at The Good Guys
What You Need To Know
On the hunt for a coffee machine that doesn’t sacrifice space in your small kitchen? This De’Longhi Nespresso coffee machine is a compact model that still packs a generous 0.7 litre water tank and a capsule bin capable of holding 11 used pods.
“This was purchased as a gift for my dad for his birthday, and he loves it! The machine is a vast improvement over his traditional instant coffee, and just as quick with the machine’s brew time,” a reviewer wrote on the Myer website.
“The milk frother works quite well, adding greater texture to the beverage which he certainly appreciates. The machine looks sleek, is a good size and would fit into any kitchen. I would recommend this to anyone looking to upgrade from instant, but not wanting to go full barista mode.”
FEATURES TO LOOK FOR IN A COFFEE POD AND CAPSULE MACHINE
Aside from size and price, different machines also come with varying levels of coffee customisation. But buying a unit based on price alone isn’t always the best idea since it might not give you the convenience or wide range of flavours you’ve been craving.
That’s why Mitch recommends looking for “easy to use” features that let you “operate at the touch of a button”.
“If you’re like me, and drink more than one coffee a day, ease and convenience are key. Choosing a coffee machine with easy to use, automatic technology will mean less effort for you,” he said.
Here are some features to expect in a pod machine.
Auto-dosing: Most pod machines will automatically stop once it has dispensed enough coffee and water for a mug or a single or double espresso. If you want a set-and-forget model, it’s worth double checking.
Automatic milk frother: Prefer creamy lattes over black coffees? Unlike automatic models, coffee pod machines generally don’t have an integrated milk frother. But some products like the L’OR Barista Coffee Machine and Nespresso’s De'Longhi Inissia and Milk Capsule Coffee Maker come with a milk frother.
Steam wand: If you’re used to a manual coffee machine, some models including the Breville Nespresso Creatista Plus have a steam wand to give you more control over your milk. Keep in mind that a steam wand makes steamed milk, which is still foamy but not as textured as frothed milk. While you can froth milk, it does take some skill.
Adjustable height drip tray: Adjustable drip trays accommodate cups of different sizes, allowing you to pour coffee directly into your small demitasse cup or large travel mug without any spillage or awkward mug to tumbler transfer.
Dishwasher safe removable parts: From inserting the capsule to cleaning the water tank and capsule bin, dishwasher safe components make the whole process easy from start to finish.
ARE POD COFFEE MACHINES WORTH IT?
With so many pod machines available at different price points and offering different levels of personalisation, pod coffee machines can be a great addition to your kitchen.
“The biggest benefits of a capsule coffee machine are consistency and convenience. There is little room for error as your machine does the heavy lifting for you, at the touch of a button,” Mitch said.
“For coffee-lovers, there’s also an endless range of coffees from around the world to enjoy at every mood or moment.”
As a downside, Mitch says shoppers are spoiled for choice with plenty of options to choose from – but “not all machines are made equally”.
“Every coffee machine comes with its own perks, from bespoke technology and design elements to price, built-in support options and coffee capabilities. So it’s important to first consider your specific coffee needs and whether you will actually use all of the features on offer before you buy,” he said.
CAN YOU USE ANY CAPSULE IN POD COFFEE MACHINES?
You cannot simply fill a pod machine with any capsule because all pods are made in different sizes, depending on the brand and exact model of coffee maker. Pod machines also use different technology to know how much coffee and water to dispense. This is why many manufacturers recommend using their own range of pods.
Although you can still find alternative capsules that are still compatible, especially if you’re using a Nespresso machine or a model that uses the K-fee pod system – just make sure to double check it’s compatible with your specific machine. You can get these online and in supermarkets.
CAN YOU RECYCLE COFFEE PODS?
Coffee capsules and pods cannot simply be recycled in your recycling bin at home because they’re made from mixed materials and are too small. But they can still be disposed of in sustainable ways, such as by sending them to a recycling service, including TerraCycle. Biodegradable or compostable coffee pods can alternatively be placed in your home compost bin. Otherwise, it’s best to recycle aluminium or paper coffee pods in the rubbish bin.
“When you recycle your used coffee capsules, both the aluminium and the used coffee grounds can be turned into useful products such as bicycles and soil mix for landscaping,” Mitch said.
It’s worth checking if your capsule brand is part of a recycling program. The most common include Nespresso, L’OR, Moccona, illy and Campos.
Nespresso is one of the easiest to recycle since they can be returned to a Nespresso boutique, dropped off at certain collection points (similar to other branded capsules involved in a recycling program), or mailed to Nespresso through Australia Post. Workplace or communities can set up a recycling point, too.
Other brands with a recycling program include L’OR, Moccona, illy and Campos.
You can find recyclable pods online, most of which are compatible with compatible with Nespresso machines and models that use Caffitaly or ALDI Expressi capsules.
WHAT DOES ‘BAR’ MEAN IN A COFFEE MACHINE?
Mitch says a ‘bar’ is measurement of atmospheric pressure that can show “how much pressure is exerted on your coffee grounds inside your coffee machine”. The specific number of bars
doesn’t really affect the taste when you make a pod coffee, according to the Nespresso Coffee Ambassador, because many models now let you customise different settings to “take the guesswork out” and help you achieve your perfect cup.
“There is also no one ideal bar as every coffee bean reacts to extraction differently and requires a unique set of temperatures, flow rates and pressures,” he explained.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COFFEE POD AND COFFEE CAPSULE?
Coffee pods and capsules are the same idea – pre-measured and packaged doses of coffee. Pods are packed in single doses, are usually made out of paper and tend to carry more coffee, whereas capsules are vacuum packed and must be disposed of after each use.
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