Why the Nescafé Dolce Gusto Genio beats every other coffee machine I’ve tried (aff)

I’ve tested my fair share of coffee machines over the years, but none ever felt like the perfect fit until I found the Nescafé Dolce Gusto Genio S Automatic by De’Longhi, now £64 (down from £99.99 a 36% saving). It might sound a little over the top, but this compact machine has genuinely transformed my daily routine.

I used to always love going out for coffee dates with husband or friends. But now I much prefer making coffee in my own kitchen. I’m still drinking my favourite Starbucks but not at the local one where the coffee always tastes burnt.

The Dolce Gusto machine delivers a rich, smooth taste with a luxurious feel. It uses a maximum 15-bar pump pressure, which gives the drinks that proper café-style finish. My Starbucks (caramel latte macchiato) pods come out tasting better than anything I get from the shop. It's consistently professional-quality coffee, cup after cup.

But what really makes this machine part of my daily routine is the variety it offers. The range is huge over 40 different drinks to choose from. With brands such as Starbucks or Costa and even the Celebrations hot chocolate pods the kids love at Christmas.

Another reason why I love the Genio S is the small size. I don’t want bit billy appliances taking over my kitchen worktops and this machine fits perfectly. At just 11.2cm wide, 27.3cm high and 28.8cm deep, it takes up hardly any room, and the 0.8L water tank is just the right size for daily use.

Using it couldn’t be easier. Everything is controlled through simple touch selection. The coffee machine keeps everything contained neatly inside the pods. Cleaning takes seconds, and even the drip tray adjusts so I can switch between a small espresso cup and my tall latte glasses without making a mess.

Even the sustainability side is covered. Through the Podback recycling program, I can recycle my used pods easily and for free, which removes the guilt I used to feel about capsule waste. It’s a relief knowing the brand is taking responsibility for the full cycle of their products.

The Nescafé coffee machine has become more than just a gadget for me. It’s the machine that lets me start my morning exactly the way I like it without having to leave home.

Natalie Dixon is our Lifestyle reporter, if you liked this article and want to read more about fashion, beauty and lifestyle you can follow Natalie Dixon on X here.

You can also Get the best style and fashion news with Natalie Dixon in Tuesday’s NationalWorld newsletter - sign up now

^{This article was produced with the support of AI tools to assist in sourcing and structuring information. All content has been reviewed, verified and completed by a journalist prior to publication.}