We compared two compact pod coffee machines from different capsule systems: the connected, one-touch Nespresso Vertuo Pop and the budget-friendly NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Mini Me starter kit.
What we looked at
Price, capsule system and availability, cup sizes and drink range, connectivity and energy claims, and size.
The verdict
If you want one-touch brewing with four stated cup sizes, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and Nespresso's Vertuo capsule range, the Vertuo Pop is the more feature-rich pick, though it costs more than twice as much on these listings. If you'd rather spend less and start with pods included, the Dolce Gusto Mini Me offers 15 bar pressure, hot and cold drinks and pods you can pick up in supermarkets.
Four stated cup sizes up to 230ml, one-touch brewing and WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity, but it costs more than twice as much as the Mini Me.
Less than half the price and sold as a starter kit with pods, with hot and cold drinks, but no connectivity features are listed.
Nespresso Vertuo Pop Pod Coffee Machine by Krups (Coconut White) — Best Features
Intended for: Marketed as a compact, one-touch pod machine that works exclusively with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, brewing four cup sizes from a 40ml espresso to a 230ml large mug, with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
What we liked
- Brews four stated sizes: 40ml espresso, 80ml double espresso, 150ml gran lungo and a 230ml large mug
- Heats up in 30 seconds with one-button brewing and barcode-reading capsules
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity with descaling alerts
- Includes a welcome set of 12 capsules
- Over 30 Vertuo capsules to choose from, including iced and flavoured
Worth knowing
- Costs more than twice as much as the Dolce Gusto Mini Me on these listings
- Works exclusively with Nespresso Vertuo capsules
- The Aeroccino milk frother for latte-style drinks is sold separately
Best for
- Anyone who wants one-touch brewing with a choice of cup sizes
- Buyers who like app connectivity and descaling alerts
- Fans of the Nespresso Vertuo capsule range
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers comparing price first
- Anyone who wants milk frothing included in the box
NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Mini Me EDG155.BG Coffee Machine Starter Kit — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a compact pod coffee machine with 15 bar pump pressure and over 40 beverage varieties for hot and cold drinks, sold as a starter kit that includes pods.
What we liked
- Less than half the price of the Vertuo Pop on these listings
- Sold as a starter kit that includes pods
- 15 bar pump pressure, with hot or cold drinks at the touch of a button
- Over 40 beverage varieties, with pods from just 35p a cup
- Pods are available in supermarkets and online
- Compact 16cm x 30.5cm x 24cm body with a 0.8L water tank
Worth knowing
- No WiFi, Bluetooth or descaling alerts mentioned in the listing, unlike the Vertuo Pop
- Lists an A energy rating against the Vertuo Pop's A+
Best for
- Budget-conscious buyers who want pods included to get started
- People who want hot and cold drinks from a compact machine
- Buyers who like picking up pods at the supermarket
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants connected features such as app updates
- Buyers who prefer the Nespresso Vertuo capsule range
