KRUPS Dolce Gusto Mini Me Artic KP123B
A practical pod coffee machine (The Dolce Gusto Mini, compact) for fuss-free pod coffee at home.
Nespresso vs Dolce Gusto vs Tassimo: Which Is Best?
Nespresso, Dolce Gusto and Tassimo are the three big pod systems in the UK, and since they're not interchangeable, choosing between them is the key decision. Here's how they compare.
Nespresso
Nespresso focuses on quality coffee: the Original system makes espresso and lungo with good crema from small pods, while Vertuo does longer coffees. It has the widest range of pods, including lots of cheaper third-party compatible ones, which keeps running costs down. Milk drinks need a frother (built-in on premium models, or a separate Aeroccino). Best for espresso lovers who want quality and pod choice.
Dolce Gusto
NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto is the all-rounder, making the widest variety of drinks - espresso, lungo, lattes, cappuccinos, hot chocolate, iced drinks - using its own pods, with a separate milk pod for creamy drinks (no frother needed). Machines and pods are affordable and widely available in supermarkets. Best for households that want variety and easy milk drinks without spending much.
Tassimo
Tassimo (by Bosch) uses barcoded T-Discs that brew each drink to the brand's recipe, and its standout feature is branded pods: Costa, Cadbury hot chocolate, L'OR, Twinings tea and more. Machines are cheap and simple. Best for people who want recognisable branded drinks and don't mind being tied to the Tassimo pod range.
Which should you choose?
Choose Nespresso for the best espresso and the cheapest pods (via compatibles); Dolce Gusto for variety and easy milk drinks on a budget; Tassimo for branded coffee-shop and chocolate drinks. They all take different pods, so decide based on the drinks you'll actually make and the pods you can buy easily - then pick a machine within that system.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
Tassimo by Bosch My Way 2
A practical pod coffee machine (Tassimo) for fuss-free pod coffee at home.
#3 
Tassimo by Bosch My Way 2
A practical pod coffee machine (Tassimo) for fuss-free pod coffee at home.
#4 
Dolce Gusto De'Longhi Piccolo XS
A practical pod coffee machine (The Dolce Gusto De) for fuss-free pod coffee at home.
#5 
Delonghi Dolce Gusto Genio S
A practical pod coffee machine (The Dolce Gusto Genio) for fuss-free pod coffee at home.
#6 
Krups Nespresso Inissia
A practical pod coffee machine (The Nespresso Original) for fuss-free pod coffee at home.
Frequently asked questions
Which is best: Nespresso, Dolce Gusto or Tassimo?
Nespresso for espresso quality and cheap compatible pods; Dolce Gusto for drink variety and easy milk drinks; Tassimo for branded drinks like Costa and Cadbury. They use different, non-compatible pods, so choose by the drinks and pods you want.
Can you use Nespresso pods in a Dolce Gusto or Tassimo machine?
No - the three systems use completely different pods that only fit their own machines. Choosing a system means committing to its pods, so pick the one whose drinks and pod prices suit you best.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the KRUPS Dolce Gusto Mini Me Artic KP123B (our score 9.6/10) - A practical pod coffee machine (The Dolce Gusto Mini, compact) for fuss-free pod coffee at home..