Rating of capsule coffee machines: review and comparison table

When choosing a coffee machine for your home or office, you probably want it to be affordable and easy to use. We did a lot of research on the topic of coffee machines: part 1 and part 2, and found out that both of these requests are satisfied by capsule coffee makers. The coffee for them is already formed in portions in plastic capsules, which are thrown away after use, that is, there is no need to grind and add coffee and constantly wash the coffee machine.

Before choosing the coffee machine itself, you need to decide on the capsule manufacturer, so as not to encounter insurmountable difficulties later. Here everything is the other way around: consumables are not produced for equipment, but equipment is produced for consumables.

We will tell you in detail about the TOP 3 of our rating of capsule coffee manufacturers, and you will learn about the rest of the dozen from the table at the end of the article.

Features of a capsule coffee machine

The main difference between this technique is that it uses special capsules that contain ground grain. The machine pierces the cell and forces hot water through it under pressure. This is how the drink turns out.

There are some discrepancies as to which group such installations belong to: coffee makers or coffee machines. Why is that? First, let's briefly say how a coffee machine differs from a coffee maker.

1. Functionality. The first type of device is capable of producing many options for drinking, adjusting the degree of grinding, strength and other parameters. And with the second, you are limited to only one function: to prepare a certain variety from the loaded raw materials.
2. Degree of automation. The grain machine can do everything on its own; you just need to load the ingredients and set the desired setting. You will have to monitor the operation of the coffee maker more closely.

So it turns out that according to the first criterion, the equipment belongs to coffee makers, since they can only make the coffee that is in the loaded preparation, but according to the second, it is more likely to resemble a coffee machine, since brewing requires a minimum of non-labor-intensive operations.

But be that as it may, it should be recognized that it is better to install such equipment for those who do not really want to understand the degrees of roasting, grinding, proportions and other nuances. Everything here is much simpler than if you choose a bean coffee machine.

Now let's summarize and name the pros and cons. So, the main advantages:

• quick and easy preparation;
• the taste of the drink is always at a high level due to strict adherence to the production of capsules, while when choosing coffee there is a chance to make a mistake and purchase a low-quality product;
• the device itself is compact;
• does not require special maintenance;
• It is inexpensive compared to a stand-alone one.

The disadvantages are also significant:

• operation is expensive in the long term due to the high cost of consumables;
• most installations can only accept one category of capsules, which means that you always need to buy only them;
• Not all systems offer a wide variety of drinks.

Xiaomi Scishare Capsule Coffee Machine S1103

A coffee maker that allows you to prepare a delicious drink with the press of just one button. Cooking time is 1 minute, and only 2 keys are used for control.

Xiaomi Scishare Capsule Coffee Machine S1103 in the rating of capsule coffee makers

Other features include easy adjustment of the coffee portion from 15 to 180 ml, a reliable pump that provides high pressure, and a fairly long power cord. The ergonomics of the model allows it to take up minimal space, and a large assortment of capsules compatible with this model provides a good selection of drinks - up to 20 different varieties. After a few minutes of non-use, Xiaomi Scishare Capsule automatically turns off, and the 580 ml tank is enough for 5-10 cups of drink, depending on the type of coffee.

Important advantages of the coffee maker:

• good power;
• large compartment for spent capsules;
• convenient control and height-adjustable cup stand;
• control of coffee strength, temperature and amount of water;
• automatic shutdown;
• The power cable is long enough.

The main disadvantages of the model:

• relatively high noise during coffee preparation;
• water tank is only 0.58 l.

Capsule system

You should be aware that not every machine is allowed to load certain cells. Their category is strictly regulated by the equipment manufacturer.

Let's take a closer look at the characteristics of the main types of capsules.

Nespresso

The founders of this brewing scheme. At the moment, this brand offers about 30 types of drink. This also includes varieties without caffeine and with various additives.

For lovers of large mugs, the brand offers blanks designed for 230 and 414 ml. The line is constantly updated and delights with new tastes.

Only selected raw materials are used for production, so even a reduced dose (5 grams versus the standard 7-9 for every 30 ml of espresso) does not affect the result and allows this brand to lead the TOP in quality.

The disadvantage is the lack of varieties with milk, i.e., cappuccino, latte and other delicate flavors beloved by many. To try them, you will have to spend money on an expensive machine with a built-in cappuccino maker or a separate device.

The price of original products “bites”, and it is possible to choose a cheaper alternative. Fortunately, there are no problems with them, and they are presented in a huge assortment: Cafe Royal, Egoiste, L'Ore, Oysters, Coffesso, “Moscow coffee shop on shares” and others.

For those who want to save even more, reusable copies are available that must be refilled with your own hands. You can also reuse used casings. To do this, you need to wash them, tamp the ground powder into them and seal them with a disposable lid. However, keep in mind that the taste of such a product is inferior.

In addition to branded Nespresso models, appliances from Bork, De'Longhi, KitchenAid, and Krups work with this type of element.

Dolce Gusto

The second most popular group is also from Nestle, like the first. Only this line is considered budget. A wider range of products is offered: here are classic and dairy varieties, hot chocolate, and even tea.

To make a cappuccino you need to spend two cells: one with ground grain and the other with powdered milk. It’s good that there is no need to use extra equipment, but because of this, the cost of a portion doubles. And the taste of the concentrate is still not the same as that of fresh milk.

As experts say, the low price affects the quality: the drink turns out less rich and aromatic, and the device breaks more often. By the way, devices of this type are produced by Krups.

Tassimo

This category has nothing in common with the previous ones. They even use a slightly different packaging approach: in Nespresso and Dolce Gusto, the raw materials are tightly compacted, and for a decent result, water must be supplied under very high pressure of 15-19 bar. Tassimo cells are not as dense, they contain more powder, so 3.3 bar is enough for liquid passage and brewing.

An undoubted advantage is the automatic start of the mode. The technology reads all the preparation information from the barcode on the lid and prepares the perfect elixir of vigor.

The choice is also quite varied: 14 varieties, including black and milk types, cocoa.

Equipment for the system is produced by the well-known brand Bosch. These units are more capricious than the previous ones and break down more often.

Other options

Until 2021, Cremesso capsules were very popular, which were distinguished by a rather large variety of coffee and tea varieties. Moreover, they demonstrate very decent quality. Now it is almost impossible to find units of the same name on the shelves, and you will have to hunt for replacement elements.

Another thing worth mentioning is Caffitaly. Its line also includes not only coffee, but also cocoa and a variety of teas. The drink turns out to be very bright due to the fact that the brand does not spare raw materials and pours the required 8 grams into the preparation. The cells have a double filter that enhances the aroma.

In addition, many coffee manufacturers produce machines that work only with their capsules, for example, Lavazza, Paulig, Illy, Tchibo. Their assortment, as a rule, is not rich, and it is unlikely that you will be able to find capsules in the “nearest” store.

Therefore, if you are not an ardent fan of a particular brand, then I advise you to buy coffee machines that work with the three most common standards.

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

A coffee maker, when buying which, you can choose different colors - markings from 1401 to 1407 mean that the body can be black, white, beige and even red. The model is suitable for preparing various drinks, including tea and hot chocolate.

Bosch TAS 1401/1402/1403/1404/1407 Tassimo in the rating of capsule coffee makers

It is possible to adjust the volume of the cup and the strength of the finished coffee, as well as the height of the stand on which the dishes are placed. The volume of the water tank is 700 ml, the power is 1.3 kW, enough to prepare a drink in less than 2 minutes. And among other features of the model, there is an automatic shutdown and a self-cleaning program that simplifies the maintenance of the Bosch TAS.

Several reasons to buy:

• attractive design of the model and a large assortment of colors;
• simple controls and the ability to prepare several types of drinks, including even tea and hot chocolate;
• automatic shutdown after preparing a drink;
• possibility of automatic water decalcification;
• compact body dimensions.

Negative points when using:

• the size of the water tank is not too large;
• inconvenient instructions.

Specifications

Like any equipment, a coffee machine has characteristics that you should definitely pay attention to.

1. Power - the higher this indicator, the faster the device copes with heating the water, which means the drink is prepared faster. For home use, units no lower than 1200 W are suitable.
2. Tank volume – for home use (when consuming 1-2 cups per day), a 0.5 liter capacity is sufficient. But for a crowded office, it is better to choose a product with a capacity of at least 2 liters.
3. The presence and size of a waste container is the place where the spent casings will be dumped. Here again everything depends on consumption. For a large company, it is advisable to take a tank where 10-15 elements can be stored.
4. Display – shows information about the selected mode, cooking stage and temperature. Also, reminders are displayed on the screen to add water, empty the garbage container and clean the unit.
5. Descaling – limescale deposits sooner or later on the internal parts of the equipment. And it’s good if the technology knows how to get rid of it on its own.
6. Timer – makes it possible to set it to turn on at a certain moment. Imagine: you have just opened your eyes, and a fragrant elixir is already waiting for you.
7. Heating cups is a function for true connoisseurs, since according to the rules, real espresso is usually poured into warm containers in order to preserve its taste and aroma as much as possible.
8. Strength adjustment – ​​allows you to adjust the desired strength. A very useful option for those who do not like too rich a product.
9. Automatic shutdown - the device turns off after a certain period of inactivity (depending on the model).

Krups Dolce Gusto KP 100B Piccolo

One of the most affordable models, which is distinguished by its original design, high enough pressure of 9–15 bar to quickly prepare an aromatic drink, and simple controls.

Coffee machine Krups Dolce Gusto KP 100B Piccolo in the rating of capsule coffee makers

To start the coffee maker, just turn it on, wait just half a minute, insert the capsule and turn the lever. After 5 minutes of non-use, the coffee maker automatically turns off. Krups Dolce Gusto KP 100B has the ability to adjust the serving size and the height of the stand on which the dishes are placed. And the 600ml water tank is enough to brew 4-5 medium cups or much more espresso.

The main advantages of Krups Dolce Gusto KP 100B Piccolo:

• high power of the coffee maker, providing fast coffee preparation;
• convenient height adjustment of the cup stand;
• relatively affordable cost;
• preparing both espresso and cappuccino;
• small size and quiet operation.

Disadvantages of the model:

• significant weight - as much as 5 kg;
• The volume of the coffee tank is only 600 ml.

Availability of a cappuccino maker

If you don’t like drinking with dry concentrate, look for copies with a cappuccino maker. There are two options.

1. Manual – requires user participation. Milk should be poured into a container and brought to the steam wand, moving the glass until a lush foam forms. Then this mass must be transferred to a mug of coffee.
2. Automatic - everything is much simpler. Milk is poured into a special compartment or transferred through a tube to the machine directly from the bag. There it is whipped and served in the same cup as the drink. Some samples have the option to adjust the amount and temperature of foam.

Of course, automatic units are more convenient, but they are also more expensive than manual ones.

Tassimo

Tassimo capsules are filled with Jakobs Monarch coffee, and coffee machines for these capsules are made by Bosch. They followed the same path as Dolche Gusto, focusing on coffee and other drinks, although they only have 15 flavors in their assortment. The price is slightly lower for black coffee, and, on the contrary, higher for drinks with milk.

Judging by the low price of the coffee machines, it is clear that this partnership survives on capsules. Therefore, you will not lose much, even if the coffee machine becomes not the most frequently used item in the house. The cars of this company look solid and have good ratings and reviews.

A selection of budget coffee machines

We will make a rating of devices of various standards with positive reviews, from the price category of 6-7 thousand rubles. Let's see how the functionality of these models differs. We will also name the cost of classic espresso.

De'Longhi Essenza Mini EN 85 B is an inexpensive and compact copy for 7,000 rubles. The power is 1150 W and the pressure is 19 bar. The removable water tank holds 0.8 liters. A container is provided for collecting waste casings. The volume of the drink can be adjusted at your discretion from 20 to 250 ml. Built-in auto shutdown in case of prolonged inactivity.

The Espresso Delizioso set from L'Or will cost 280 rubles for 10 capsules, i.e. 28 rubles per mug (if you take original products from Nespresso, it will be much more expensive).

Pros:

• high-quality materials and assembly;
• there is an auto shutdown;
• compact sizes.

Minuses:

• prepares only espresso and lungo.

Krups Nescafe Lumio KP130510 - a device designed to interact with Dolce Gusto, for 6,000 rubles. It has a 1 liter liquid container, a pressure of 15 bar and a power of 1500 W. The quantity can be adjusted at your discretion and depending on the volume recommended by the manufacturer for a particular drink. In addition, provision is made for preparing cold drinks.

A package of Nescafe Espresso with 16 cells costs 460 rubles. It turns out that one serving costs almost 29 rubles. And if you take cappuccino, it is twice as expensive, since two preparations are consumed.

See below for a detailed overview of the brewing process.

Pros:

• removable drip tray for easy cleaning;
• shutdown after 1 minute of inactivity;
• makes any coffee, tea and hot chocolate;
• 6 test cells included;
• unusual external design.

Minuses:

• no cappuccino maker;
• The mode has to be set manually.

BOSCH TAS6002 - a sample priced at 6,000 rubles is designed for the Tassimo system. The size of the tank is 1.3 l, and the power is 1,500 W. It can be called the most functional of all presented. It allows you to adjust the strength, temperature, volume and save 4 favorite recipes in the settings. Those who are satisfied with the recipe provided by the manufacturer will like that the device reads all manufacturing requirements from the barcode. For easy maintenance, a self-cleaning function is built-in.

You can drink coffee for 34 rubles: Tassimo Espresso, 549 rubles for 16 cells.

Now this model is temporarily out of stock, so look at an almost identical option - BOSCH Tassimo TAS6004.

Pros:

• prepares coffee instantly;
• equipped with useful options;
• steam cleaning.

Minuses:

• dairy varieties are obtained only when using an additional capsule with concentrate.

5 more popular models:

1. DELONGHI Nespresso Essenza mini Bundle for RUB 7,990.
2. BOSCH TAS3204 for 4,700 rubles.
3. DELONGHI Nespresso Latissima one EN500 for RUB 18,990.
4. DELONGHI Nespresso ENV155.B for RUB 13,800.
5. BOSCH TAS3205 for 4,680 rubles.

Nespresso C30 Essenza Mini

A model with a fairly simple design and convenient controls. Available in 2 colors - white and black, it can prepare espresso and lungo. The tank volume is only 0.6 liters, enough for a maximum of 4 or 5 standard-sized cups of coffee.

Nespresso C30 Essenza Mini coffee machine in the rating of capsule coffee makers

Although there is a button on the body of the coffee maker that allows you to reduce the volume to 40 ml to get espresso. And the number of standard servings in this case increases to 10–15. By holding down one of the keys, the amount of water supplied can be adjusted to the value desired by the user. Other features include easy maintenance, a drip tray and automatic shut-off after 9 minutes to save electricity.

Advantages of the coffee maker:

• compactness, light weight and stylish design;
• automatic shutdown 9 minutes after startup;
• convenient control using just 2 buttons on the top panel;
• quick coffee preparation thanks to decent power;
• convenient design - with a tray for collecting drops, a waste compartment and a compartment for storing the power cord.

List of main disadvantages of the model:

• relatively high noise when the coffee maker is operating;
• a small water tank that will only hold 3-4 cups.

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

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