Capsule coffee machine - is it worth buying?

In recent years, the capsule coffee machine has been a solution that has enjoyed a very high level of popularity and recognition. And for good reason! You can brew delicious coffee in no time at all. Its preparation is very simple and requires no practice. The wide range of capsules available on the market means that, depending on your tastes, needs and mood, you can enjoy a variety of coffee flavours with different intensities and flavourings. If you are wondering, whether it is worth buying a capsule machine, read our practical guide.

How a capsule coffee machine works

Capsule coffee machine requires topping up with water and inserting a special capsule in the space provided. A cup or mug needs to be placed under the dispenser and the preparation of the drink is started by pressing a button on the machine. Some coffee machines also allow you to selection of a particular type of coffee. When steaming is finished, the empty capsule must be removed and discarded.

Capsule machine: tips for buying one

When buying this type of coffee machine, it is worth paying attention to several important aspects that will determine how comfortable and suitable the use of the machine will be. These include, above all:

• Capsule compatibility: check which capsules are compatible with coffee machine. Some espresso machines only work with capsules made by specific brands. This is not necessarily a disadvantage, but it is worth being aware of.
• variety of coffees: if you appreciate a variety of flavours, make sure there are different types of capsules available to suit your chosen coffee machine.
• coffee quality: find out what coffee quality the machine in question. Read user reviews and equipment reviews to find out what other coffee lovers have experienced.
• price of coffee machine and capsules: Compare the prices of different coffee machines and the cost of capsules. Some capsule coffee machines may be cheaper to buy, but the cost of the capsules is higher. 
• coffee machine functions: pay attention to additional features such as the possibility of preparing different types of beverage (e.g. espresso, cappuccino, latte), the brew intensity settings and whether the machine has an automatic cleaning function.
• size and design: make sure the coffee machine fits into your kitchen in terms of both size and design. Elegant coffee machine can add variety to a room's interior and provide an interesting decorative accent.
• ease of handling and cleaning: Choose a model that is easy to use and clean. Capsule machines are usually easier to maintain than traditional coffee machines.
• warranty and service principles: verify how long warranty on coffee machine and that access to maintenance services in the event of a breakdown is not problematic. 
• additional accessories: For some coffee machines, additional accessories (e.g. milk frother) may be sold separately, which is worth bearing in mind when planning your purchase and equipment budget.

Advantages and disadvantages of capsule coffee machines

Capsule machines are relatively inexpensive and do not take up much space. They are compact, nice and comfortable to use. Coffee is prepared very quickly in them and no skill is required. Users praise the large selection of flavours and the high taste of the brew, although the latter depends on individual taste and preference. For some, the downside may be the fact that only capsules from a particular manufacturer are usually compatible with the machine. Capsule machine In addition, it does not have a high capacity and is therefore best suited to domestic use or possibly small catering outlets. Such units are also popular in hotels, tourist boarding houses and waiting rooms in high-end specialist practices, such as dentists and therapists.

Modern coffee capsules: a wealth of flavours

Coffee capsule market offer is very wide. You can choose from types such as:

• lungo: similar to espresso, but prepared with more water, making it less intense in flavour.
• ristretto: a more concentrated and intense version of espresso.
• americano:  a milder coffee, prepared by combining espresso with hot water.
• cappuccino: A popular milk coffee, containing equal parts espresso, milk and milk foam.
• latte macchiato: a milky coffee consisting of a large quantity of foamed milk and espresso
• mocha: coffee with added chocolate, often served with milk and foam.
• flavoured coffees: coffee capsules with flavours such as vanilla, caramel, walnut, chocolate, amaretto (they may also have other, less popular, flavour variants or blends of these.

Examples include Brazilia Morgiana capsule coffee from Nespresso, in which distinct notes of chocolate, caramel and nut are perceptible.

• decaffeinated coffees: option for those avoiding caffeine, often available in a variety of flavours.
• limited/special editions: Often producers release limited editions, which may include unique flavour combinations or coffees from specific regions.
• single origin coffees: coffee capsules from a particular region or farm, characterised by a unique flavour profile.

Due to its numerous advantages and interesting flavours of the coffee on offer Capsule coffee machines are a popular purchase. Before buying, it is worth trying this type of coffee and seeing for yourself if the taste suits your individual needs and preferences. Experimenting with different variations of the drink can be an inspiring adventure!