Hope someone can shed some light on this for me:

Am looking to purchase a coffee machine that uses capsules (yes, I know, I am finally giving in). I am aware of the pros and cons of capsules vs beans and don't want to get into that debate..but I do need some advice.

I have narrowed the search to either the Tassimo machines or the Dolce Gusto (Nescafe). It is a gift for my hubby, who likes coffee, but (of course) I would be using it to, and I prefer hot chocolates or teas.

Want something that takes as little cleaning or bench space as possible.

Can someone please tell me if one of these machines is better than the other? Whether there is a huge difference in price and availability of capsules etc? Any other possible pitfalls?

Thanks in advance!

Really, no one out there has any advice / experience to share??

I'm a man. I like coffee. I'd hate for someone to buy me a coffee machine without my input.

IMO coffee machines fit into the same category as power drills and lawnmowers.

So, you need to ask your husband what he likes. He may prefer neither and want a Nespresso machine.

Tricky if you want to keep it a surprise.

Only can talk about the one I use ie Tassimo. Does good coffees, and a great Latte Machiato , as well as Milka chocolate. Can get products from different countries via the website.

I had a Tassimo which did not give very good service - imho, they are not made to last! I now have a Dolce Gusto, with which I am very satisfied. The DG takes up less space and makes very good coffee; capsules available in Co-op. Placette, etc.

we had 2 Dolce Gusto machines, thought they were great but they kept breaking and refused to buy a third so got the Tassimo instead and it is MUCH better, more choice, great that you dont have to stand and wait and switch it off when your cup is full, the tassimo has a bar code reader and deposits the right amount of water per drink/capsule - I'd recommend Tassimo

I'm a fan of the machines that use pods and ground coffee as well, handy when you run out of pods. The pods have a few different companies that make them such as illy/Amici, Chicco Doro and Maestro Lorenzo so you aren't stuck to one brand. They are less messy and the coffee portion is always the same.

Turmix machines use these pods and I have a coupon for one for 129 sfr incl. coffee if you want it. Francis Francis and Magimix machines also use these pods and many do pods and ground coffee.

Thanks so much for all your replies!

I think I will go with the Tassimo as the choice of beverages seems great, and I like the fact that it is completely automated.....now just got to decide between the models! Doesn't seem to really be any differences except for the tank size and of course the price!

I've got a Dolce Gusto which is fine. However, the OH doesn't drink coffee and the range of none-coffee drinks is limited. I haven't tried a Tassimo coffee, but the tea selection looks better.

How about a Nespresso for the husband and an electric kettle for you to boil the tea water - best of both worlds...