For those who want coffee without having to measure it out
If you’d rather not fill and tamp a portafilter, capsules and pods fit the bill. Just check which format the machine takes: portions aren’t interchangeable between different systems.
Which coffee-making method is right for you?
For those who like to get hands-on with their coffee
A portafilter lets you fill and tamp the ground coffee yourself, then knock out the used grounds afterwards. De’Longhi’s descriptions of its manual machines make clear that these steps are part of how they work. It’s best to think of them as part of your routine, rather than something you do now and then.
For those who regularly use whole beans
A bean-to-cup machine is a good fit if choosing your beans matters to you and you’re happy to clean and descale the machine as instructed. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of factoring in maintenance when choosing this type of machine.
What should you look for in a coffee machine?
To choose between capsules, pods, a portafilter and a grinder, start with the coffee you make most often. Then think about the steps and maintenance you’re happy to take on every day.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Making coffee without measuring it out | Check the exact capsule or pod format the machine takes, and how much space it needs. | I want to make coffee with minimal handling, without filling or tamping a portafilter. Around 30% of consumers are said to prioritise this convenience. |
| Long coffees without fiddly settings | Check the drink sizes available and whether the model can make one or two cups at a time. | At home, I mostly make long coffees and prefer a simple button press to manual settings. This is said to be the top priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Hands-on preparation | Check how the machine uses ground coffee, how to clean the portafilter and, if it matters to you, whether the model is compatible with ESE pods. | I want to fill and tamp the coffee myself, even if that means a few extra steps after every cup. Around 20% of consumers are said to prioritise this level of control. |
| Whole beans and maintenance | Check which parts need cleaning and what descaling the instructions recommend. | For the coffee I make regularly, I want to choose my own beans rather than use individual portions, and I’m happy to maintain a grinder. Around 30% of consumers are said to have this as a priority. |
These criteria don’t make the four types of machine interchangeable. A machine that uses individual portions cuts down on preparation, but you’ll need to use a compatible format. A portafilter involves more hands-on work for every cup, while a grinder makes coffee from whole beans but adds maintenance to your routine.
Things to bear in mind
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Choosing capsules before checking the machine
A capsule that fits one machine won’t necessarily fit another. UFC-Que Choisir says most brands accept only one type of capsule.
Check the exact system specified for the machine and make sure you’re happy with the matching capsules before choosing it.
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Assuming recycling gets rid of the need for individual portions
Recycling capsules and reducing packaging are two separate issues. ADEME recommends avoiding individually wrapped products or single-serve portions where possible.
If you’d rather limit individual portions, look at machines that use ground coffee or whole beans. If you choose capsules, follow the recycling instructions for their material.
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Underestimating the steps after making coffee
A portafilter needs to be emptied and cleaned, and a grinder also needs regular maintenance. These jobs matter if you use your machine frequently, even if you’re happy with the preparation itself.
Check the instructions for the model you’re considering to see which parts are easy to access and what cleaning and descaling involve.
Allow time for these tasks in your routine.
A few brands to know
Nespresso
The brand makes machines designed for specific capsule systems.
- Nespresso says it has collection points for used capsules in France.
- Check which capsule format the machine takes. Collection schemes don’t remove the need to use individual portions.
Philips / SENSEO
The SENSEO range includes machines for households interested in making coffee with pods.
- Philips says some models can make one or two cups at the touch of a button.
- Drink sizes, controls and maintenance instructions vary by model. Check which pod format it takes, too.
De’Longhi
The brand offers both manual portafilter machines and automatic machines with grinders.
- De’Longhi says its manual machines involve filling and tamping the portafilter, while its grinders make drinks from freshly ground beans.
- Features and maintenance steps vary by model. Don’t assume a portafilter machine takes ESE pods.
Machines for different needs
These models show the four coffee-making methods covered here: soft pods, whole beans with a grinder, Vertuo capsules and semi-automatic portafilter brewing. Compare how each machine works and what maintenance it needs with your routine before choosing a model.
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Philips SENSEO Maestro CSA260/91, intense red
Worth considering if you want a simple way to make one or two coffees using pre-measured portions. Check which pod format is compatible: some product descriptions also use the word ‘capsule’. Check the instructions for descaling, too.
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Philips Series 2200 EP2230/10 LatteGo, glossy black
Worth a look if you want to use whole beans and make milk-based drinks, too. The AquaClean filter is listed as not included. Check the instructions to see what maintenance is needed with or without this filter.
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De’Longhi Magnifica S Smart ECAM250.23.SB, silver
This automatic machine with a grinder is designed for people who want to make coffee regularly from whole beans. For milk-based drinks, the steam wand is operated manually and needs cleaning after use. Check the instructions for other maintenance, too.
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Nespresso Vertuo Pop ENV90.B, black, 0.6 L
Worth considering if you prefer making coffee with Vertuo capsules rather than measuring it out yourself. Think about its stated 0.6 L tank capacity in relation to the size and number of coffees you make before needing to refill it.
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HiBREW H11, semi-automatic espresso machine, 1450 W, 19 bar
Worth considering if you’re happy to take a more hands-on approach to making coffee from grounds. It’s listed as compatible with ESE pods. Check which accessories are included and what the instructions say before relying on this feature.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use pods in a portafilter machine?
Yes, but only if the model is compatible with the specific format. De’Longhi says some portafilter machines can use ESE pods. Check the instructions and accessories for the model you’re considering rather than assuming all portafilter machines are compatible.
Where can you dispose of coffee capsules in France?
For aluminium or plastic capsules, ADEME says to use the recycling bin, bag or container for paper and packaging. Check the product’s recycling label and your local council’s guidance to find out what to do in your area.
What should you do if a machine bought from a trader doesn’t match its description?
In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a trader to a consumer, according to the Ministry of the Economy. Contact the seller and keep a copy of the product description and your proof of purchase to explain the difference you’ve found.