With the opening of patents on the main capsule systems, there has been a proliferation of dozens of coffee pod brands and options for consumers to enjoy them all. Many users did not know that there were no Dolce Gusto-compatible capsules until 2015 for this reason.
These include the popular universal capsule coffee machines, also known as multi-capsule coffee machines, which can be used for all formats and brands of single-dose coffee.
This market trend reflects the marketing of the Dolce Gusto-Nespresso capsule adapter or the multi-pod coffee machines, which we will study in detail in this guide.
What is a multi-capsule coffee machine?
The first question we need to clarify is what we mean by a 3-in-1 multi-capsule coffee machine? Everyone expects a coffee machine that allows you to use Dolce Gusto and Nespresso coffee pos simultaneously, but this is not always possible, as we will see below. There are multi-capsule coffee machines that do not work with either of these systems.
Similarly, there are multi-function coffee machines or multi-purpose coffee machines, which can be used for several things or even work with different coffee processing methods (such as combi coffee machines), but not with capsules.
Nor should they be confused with pod coffee machines suitable for one system but marketed by a different manufacturer than the capsules.
This is the case, for example, with the NPG Fiorella NP-150, which works with Nespresso capsules, but has nothing to do with the Nespresso brand. The Xiaomi coffee machine also uses its pods with the same system as Nespresso. Therefore, it is equally compatible with Nespresso capsules (but does not support any other method).
Homever 4-in-1 Coffee Machine
This is a 19 bar machine that allows you to use four different types of coffee: it is compatible with Nespresso capsules, Dolce Gusto capsules, ESE pods, and ground coffee. As you can see, it is a little more complete than the previous IKOHS, but it is still very compact and fits anywhere.
It also includes some interesting functions, typical of mid-range coffee machines, such as decalcification warnings or the safety lock that prevents the machine from heating up if there is no water in the 0.8-litre tank.
If you are looking for a coffee machine compatible with both Nespresso and Dolce Gusto, this may be your best option while it is still available.
KREA ES200 Coffee Machine
The KREA Multipla or KREA ES200 was one of the first multi-capsule coffee machines to appear on the European market.
It is very popular in Portugal and Brazil. It is equipped with a 19 bar pressure pump and works as standard with Nespresso, Dolce Gusto and ESE single-dose capsules. Even with ground coffee!
This “miracle” is thanks to an ingenious system of interchangeable adapters or capsule holders, each with a different shape and size. When we want to make a coffee, choosing the one we want depending on the capsule we will use is just a matter of choosing the one we want. And be careful because the KREA Multipla coffee machine includes the four adapters we have mentioned, but you can also buy several more for other systems.
Here you have its datasheet:
Gourmia GCM7000 Coffee Machine
If we had to make a ranking, this multi-capsule coffee machine by Gourmia would undoubtedly be the one to take first place. Apart from ground coffee, it accepts more capsule formats than the rest (it includes up to 4 different adapters). Thanks to a timer, it also allows you to choose the temperature and program the brewing process.
Of course, its price is also above the market average, and since it is an American brand, it is not always available in the Amazon shop in other countries.
Sogo SS-5675 multi-capsule Coffee Machine
This is a surprisingly (or suspiciously to each his own) similar machine to the Ikohs Potts we reviewed earlier. And it works in the same way: it comes with an adapter for Dolce Gusto capsules, another for Nespresso capsules, and a third for using ground coffee.
It has a 0.6-litre tank and 19 bar pressure, and well, the Ikohs one is cheaper at the moment, so you don’t have to make a big decision.
Illy X1 Trio Coffee Machine
The X1 Illy is the Italian firm’s top-of-the-range coffee maker and has three versions: the Iperespresso pods, the ground coffee, and the Trio, which is the one we are concerned with.
Why is it called Illy X1 Trio, and why do we precisely include this version in our guide to buying multi-pods coffee machines? Well, because it supports three methods of making coffee:
- With Illy capsules (Iperespresso format)
- With ESE single-dose capsules.
- With normal ground coffee (through the arm and filter)
As you can see, two of these methods are using capsules: the paper capsules of the ESE type or also the hard single-dose pods of the Illy system. You can find out more about this spectacular coffee maker (do not miss out on its design and colours) in the special review we prepared at the time:
IKOHS Potts 3-in-1 Coffee Machine
One of the latest additions to the booming multi-capsule coffee machine sector is this Ikohs Potts, a 0.7-litre capacity machine with a system very similar to the one we have seen before in the KREA Multipla: it works with a series of adapters that are inserted into the capsule holder, each one valid for a specific system (or even for ground coffee). As standard, it comes with compatible adapters for Dolce Gusto, Nespresso and ground coffee capsules, so it fits perfectly with the consumption needs of today’s market.
The Potts multi-capsule coffee machine is sold in supermarkets, Amazon, and its manufacturer, IKOHS. Here you have its data sheet so you can read a complete review about it and find out its current price on Amazon.
Is it worth buying a universal capsule coffee maker?
Initially, the option of using several capsule formats is attractive for consumers. We avoid one of the main disadvantages of capsule coffee machines (having to “tie” you to one system or brand), and in the process, we get a wide range of options. Who does not like this possibility?
However, before you buy a multi-capsule machine online, you need to look at both sides of the coin:
- Not all coffee machines that support all types of coffee pods allow you to use exactly the system you are looking for. More specifically, Nespresso and Dolce Gusto (which are the two most popular in Spain) can only be enjoyed in a couple of models.
- The possibility of using various formats and brands ends up being diluted in the long run, because in a high percentage of cases users end up buying the same ones all the time. When you discover the brand and the speciality you like the most… you will not want to know about others. And to end up always using capsules from the same system… it will always be better to use one of their “official” coffee machines.
- The possibility of using various capsule formats is often the only attraction of these machines, because otherwise they are usually somewhat basic in terms of functions and performance. Of course, therefore they are also economical.
So, think about it before you payout, and if you know that the coffee pos are for you and you don’t know which format to choose, go ahead. We have already told you all the options; now it is up to you to decide which multi-capsule coffee machine to buy.
