A capsule coffee machine is a device that can be used at home to make espresso without special skills. The machine will automatically brew a cup of coffee by spending 1 capsule. This option is becoming more and more popular, because has a good combination of price and quality.

History of appearance

Eric Favre is the creator of the capsule coffee maker who worked at Nestlé. He decided to reinvent the machine to replicate the taste of the espresso he bought in Rome in 1975.

First, the man came up with a pod - a portioned pill designed for 1 cup. However, it did not pass the quality examination, because it absorbed foreign odors and did not reveal the taste of coffee.

A little later, a second version of the device appeared, made in the form of a sealed container with built-in membrane and filters. Favre noted that this method of transporting the finished powder could also be used to brew espresso.

In 1978, Nespresso SA patented this technology with the first capsule-only coffee machine.

The popularization of the invention began in 1988, and after 3 years the device began to be sold in the United States and Europe.

In Russia, capsule coffee makers began to be in demand in the 2010s. By that time, the manufacturers Mondelez and Lavazza had already developed their machines, and in 2012 most of Nespresso's patents lost their validity. At the moment, many companies are engaged in the production of their powder capsules. how much does it cost to reupholster a chair

General concept of a capsule coffee machine

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

Device

The system consists of several main components:

Boiler. Heats cold water to the desired temperature.

Dispenser. Controls the amount of liquid supplied.

Module for brewing and dropping capsules. Responsible for pinching and puncturing, dropping the waste container.

Pump. Creates high blood pressure.

Control block. Regulates the synchronous operation of all mechanisms.

The device of the coffee machine.

Differences from grain

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

Working speed: capsule - 30 seconds, and grain - minutes.

Size: The first is portable and the second is microwave-sized.

Cost: 5-15 thousand rubles. against 10-40 thousand rubles.

Cooking process: capsule - automatic, grain - controlled by a person.

Key features

Distinctive characteristics of the device:

No noise during cooking.

Ease of use.

High cooking speed.

Device cost

The price for different models varies from 5 to 15 thousand rubles. depending on the company and a set of additional functions:

Cappuccino maker.

Possibilities of using milk.

Making lattes and hot chocolate.

Capsule price

The cost of capsules also varies. On average, a package for 6-12 servings will cost 500 rubles. However, it must be borne in mind that there are devices that use several pieces at a time.

Capsules for a coffee machine.

Possibility of repair and maintenance

Any technique can break. So that maintenance and repairs do not cause problems, you should not purchase rare foreign models, because parts may not be available for sale.

It is advisable to buy devices popular in Russia. However, even with the presence of components, it will not be possible to repair the device on your own, because if one of the components is incorrectly connected, the others will suffer. It is recommended to take it to a service center.

Variety of drinks

Espresso is a classic recipe for such devices. However, they can brew lattes, cappuccino, hot chocolate, if the necessary programs are included in the on-board computer.

Benefits for home use

Positive characteristics of the capsule model:

Compactness.

Low cost.

Good espresso taste.

Ease of handling.

Compact and quiet coffee machine.

Types of systems

Each capsule system has its own characteristics (the shape of the container, the presence of identification marks that simplify the work of the computer, the number of flavors, etc.). Most often, a separate coffee maker can only use 1 type of capsule, but there are also universal models.

Nespresso

This is a popular and demanded system. Has a compact size suitable for home and office use. There are 17 flavors. Powder containers are made of aluminum, so the ground grain does not deteriorate for 12 months.

Nespresso coffee machine.

Dolche taste

Dolce Gusto's easy-to-use car with an unusual design. Can make about 10 types of coffee as well as 10 types of chocolate cocktail and tea. The disadvantages include the low build quality of cheap models and the cost of capsules.

Dolche thick coffee machine.

Tassimo

Most products are produced for this system, so the owners of such coffee makers will even be able to brew tea. The devices are characterized by low pressure, but this does not affect the quality of the finished espresso.

Tassimo low pressure.

cream

These coffee makers feature minimal energy consumption and high working pressure. Delicious espresso takes no more than 30 seconds to cook.

There are 12 varieties of recipes, as well as 4 varieties of tea.

Food grade plastic is used for the manufacture of containers, so their cost is quite high. As already mentioned, a significant disadvantage of coffee machines is the high price of capsules, their limited number.

Cremesso coffee in 30 seconds.

Caffitaly

Machines from the Italian company brew cocoa and black tea with additives. The brand's lineup includes options with cappuccino makers and hot milk containers. A feature of the machines is a double filter that improves the taste of the espresso.

Caffitaly will brew cocoa for you.

Varieties of capsules

There are 2 types of capsules: disposable and reusable.

Disposable

Most machines only work well with disposable capsules. In retail stores, they are sold more often than reusable ones. The assortment is much larger, but they are compatible with only 1 type of coffee maker.

Reusable

These containers are made of plastic. They need to be cleaned, repaired and filled on their own. They do not seal tightly, so the quality of the espresso will be lower.

Reusable capsules.

Criteria for choosing a coffee maker: technical characteristics

To make the right choice, you should pay attention to several parameters of the capsule coffee maker.

Power

The power of the device determines the speed of latte preparation: the higher this parameter, the less time you will have to wait. Depending on the model, the power of capsule coffee makers ranges from 950 to 1700 watts.

Pump pressure

The richness of the espresso flavor depends on this parameter. For most models, it reaches 19 bar. The only exceptions are units operating with Tassimo capsules, for which 3.3 bar is sufficient for brewing.

Storage tank

The volume of the tank does not really matter for home use, but for the office it is worth buying a car with a volume of 1 liter or more.

Dimensions (edit)

Basically, capsule machines are of the same size as a kettle, and their weight does not exceed 3 kg.

The coffee machines are compact in size.

Water heating system

There are 2 options for heating water:

Permanent, i.e. the liquid will always be at a temperature suitable for cooking. Thanks to this, the cooking speed is increased by 3 times.

Temporary. The water is heated during use.

Process automation

These machines work only automatically, so you need to pay attention to the number of installed programs. The more there are, the wider the list of drinks that can be brewed.

Noise level

So that the use does not cause discomfort, it is worth choosing coffee makers with soundproofing. But even without it, the device is quite quiet.

Additional options

Additional functions are built into expensive models, for example:

Automatic shutdown.

Energy saving mode.

Timer.

Cappuccino maker.

Strength regulator.

Leading manufacturers of coffee machines

Among the manufacturers of capsule coffee makers, the following brands are distinguished:

Bosch;

Lavazza;

Delonghi;

Krups;

Zepter;

Sweet taste.

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:

Price.

Electricity consumption.

Durability.

Popularity with buyers.

Xiaomi Scishare Capsule Coffee Machine S1103

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

The body is equipped with a backlight that indicates when the entire drink is poured into the cup. Has a container for used capsules for 10 pieces.

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

Модель Xiaomi Scishare Capsule Coffee Machine S1103.

Caffitaly S06

It is quite easy to operate the device, because the on-board computer independently chooses when to wet the grains, pierce and remove the capsules. For brewing, you can turn on the dispenser adjustment. It allows the insertion of tall cups. And the Panarello nozzle will turn espresso into cappuccino, latte.

Caffitaly s22 Bianko

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

The car has a nice minimalistic appearance.

The case turned out to be compact, so the device can be freely moved 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 a delicious espresso in 1 minute. A set of pods with several types of powder is included in the package.

Nespresso C30 Essenza Mini

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

Bosch Bag 7001EE / 7002 / 7004EE Tassimo

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

It takes into account the amount of water and temperature in order 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 strength of the espresso and the size of the cup. The high stand is manually adjustable. Taking care of 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 is available in several colors and is equipped with backlighting.

Bosch Tas1252 Tassimo Vivy

The on-board computer recognizes the type of pod by the barcode. The user just needs to insert the disc into the brewing unit and press the button. The device is equipped with an instantaneous water heater, which provides fast 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 to factory settings and independently select the desired programs. The volume of the boiling water tank is 1 liter. Uses capsules from Nespresso.

De'longhi Nespresso EN 85 AE Essenza Mini

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

Аппарат De'longhi Nespresso EN 85 AE Essenza Mini.

De'longhi Nespresso Pixie EN 125

Features of this model:

The Pixie design complements the kitchen interior.

Due to its small size, it can be placed anywhere in the room.

The cooking time is 25 seconds.

The pump pressure reaches 19 bar.

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 beans and get a rich taste. The device consumes 1260 W, so cooking time and energy consumption are minimal.

Модель Nespresso De'longhi EN 80 Inissia.

Nespresso De'longhi Latissima Touch EN 550

A special feature of this model is the cappuccino maker, which whips milk until frothy. The user can control the operation of the gadget using 4 keys. A rotary control adjusts the intensity and density 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, in many reviews there is information that this module is often defective and does not work. The pump pressure is 19 bar, and the capsule is pierced automatically.

Krups Dolce Gusto KP 100b

It has a classic but striking design. The volume of the hot water tank is 0.6 l, so the model is only suitable for home use. The high pressure will produce a gentle foam, and the smart power system will shut down the machine after 5 minutes.

Krups KP 350b Dolce Gusto

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

Krups KP 350b Dolce Gusto coffee machine.

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. The adjustable stand allows the user to set the maximum cup height.

Krups KP 1105

The 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 Piccolо Nescafe Dolce Gusto

This is a classic car, decorated in the style of "Picallo". She can brew an espresso without user intervention. It is enough for a person to click on 1 button. The water tank has a volume of 600 ml, so the machine will prepare 6-7 cups at a time.

Krups Dolce Gusto KP 1301/1305/1308 Lumio

Minimalistic design and a wide range of functions in an automatic capsule machine give a good combination of price and quality. And thanks to modern technology, a computer can brew more than 20 drinks.

Bork c830 Nespresso Creatista Plus

With the C830 capsule machine you can choose from 7 recipes, foam milk or create your own shake in the Barista Personalization Mode.

Lavazza lm500

The machine prepares lungo and espresso. With the help of a separate button, a person controls how much powder to use for 1 cup. The design allows for height adjustment of the drip mesh to accommodate tall mugs and low cups.

Lavazza lm500 coffee machine.

List of popular brands of capsules for making coffee

Top 5 best capsule manufacturers:

L`OR.

Of Masters.

Tassimo.

Nescafe Dolce Gusto.

Nespresso.

Cheap counterparts

Companies that produce budget capsules:

LaCapsula Deciso.

Garden.

Cofesso.

Capsules from Cofesso.

Rules for operating the coffee maker

To prevent the device from breaking down after a few months, you need to adhere to a number of rules:

Descale after 5-6 uses.

Do not fill the water tank to 100%, as depressurization may occur.

Buy capsules suitable for the selected machine.

Features of the use of capsules

In order for the powder to be prepared correctly, it is worth using the capsules of the system used in the machine. In addition, it is not recommended to buy non-original products, because they can clog the tubing due to leaky packaging.

Without coffee machine

If capsules with finely ground grains are used, then the powder can be brewed by pouring boiling water into a cup and stirring. However, in this case, the drink will turn out to be tasteless.

Again

To avoid damaging the tubes, check the tightness after filling the container. If the contents are poured, then the capsule cannot be inserted into the compartment.

The nuances of care and cleaning of the device

Most expensive models have a self-cleaning function, but it is advisable to carry out a manual wash once a week: wipe the tubes, container and tank.

Complex cleaning using cleaning tablets or citric acid should be carried out no more than 1 time in 3 months. The main thing is not to use abrasive sponges. they can damage fragile parts.

Frequent malfunctions

Most often, the owners of these machines are faced with the following problems:

Stopping the supply of boiling water due to clogged pipes.

Low pressure.

Breakage of the heating element.

Failure of the dispenser program.

Negative sides of a capsule coffee maker

Disadvantages of coffee makers:

The high cost of capsules.

Limited selection of drinks.

You cannot customize the cooking process.