The best-selling pod machines in Italy: discover the most popular models

The best-selling pod machines in Italy

When it comes to home-brewed espresso, a question often comes up among enthusiasts and regular drinkers: which are the most popular pod machines in Italy today? It’s a bit like asking what’s the best song to listen to in the car: the answer varies depending on your taste, but there are always those great classics that everyone can agree on. With a market increasingly focused on practical yet reliable solutions, 44mm ESE pod machines are experiencing a resurgence. Compact, fast, clean, and ready to provide that break that gets you back on track. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the four models that have found their way into Italian kitchens (and hearts) more than any other.

 

Didiesse Frog: a timeless classic

Iconic, unmistakable, and even a little cute. The Didiesse Frog has stood out for years in the pod coffee machine market. Its rear tank holds a 1.5 L bottle of water, avoiding limescale and making refilling much easier. The brewing group is made of brass, the pump is 15 bar, and the average power is 650W. The heat-up time is approximately 2 minutes. According to 2024 sales data on Amazon and comparison sites like Trovaprezzi, it is still the best-selling ESE machine in Italy, with over 4,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Furthermore, it is often praised by baristas and technicians for its reliability and the availability of spare parts.

Didì Borbone: compact but tough

The little sister of the Frog, smaller but no less effective. The Borbone-branded Didì, which you can read our review, is one of the best-selling machines in large-scale retail channels and on specialized websites. Its compact size (L12 x D27 x H26 cm) and light weight (about 3 kg) make it perfect for those with limited space. It has a power output of 450W, with a start-up time of around one minute. Equipped with an anti-drip and pre-infusion system, it is compatible with all 44mm ESE pods. According to major marketplaces, it is among the most purchased products under €100, often offered with 100 pods included.

 

Lollina: style and substance in a small format

The Lollina is a benchmark among compact pod coffee machines. Made in Italy by Aroma (a Neapolitan company), it has a painted metal frame and brass grouphead, ensuring durability and thermal stability. It is similar in size to the Didì, but its construction is more solid and its internal components perform better. The tank has a capacity of approximately 750 ml. Online reviews speak for themselves: it maintains an average of 4.7/5 on Feedaty and Google, thanks to the quality of its espresso and ease of use. The Lollina plus is also popular among those seeking a stylish touch in their kitchen: available in various colors, it often comes bundled with Lollo pods.

 

Faber: the artisanal coffee maker that purists love

In the world of pod machines, Faber is synonymous with craftsmanship and barista-quality performance. The Slot Plast, Slot Inox, and Pro Deluxe models feature a brass group and aluminum heat exchanger. Pressure reaches 15 bar and power is around 500–550W. Customizable versions are available with pressure gauges, steel levers, RAL colors, and decorative panels. They’re larger (about 22 cm wide), but their build quality is superior: they’re hand-assembled in Italy. On e-commerce sites like Espressolandia and CialdeItalia, they’re among the best-selling models for those seeking a home barista experience.

Four names, one certainty: home quality

Choosing between these models means relying on proven products, each with its own character. Some prefer a minimalist aesthetic, while others can’t live without a colorful machine that adds a touch of vitality to their kitchen counter. Whether you’re new to the world of espresso or an explorer of aromas, the pod machine market has already devised a solution tailored for you. Ultimately, it’s not just a matter of taste: it’s a routine that stays with you, like the first text message in the morning. And with the right companion near the power outlet, every break can turn into a small daily ritual.

Summary Table: Pros and Cons

 

Summary table: pros and cons

Model	Pros	Cons
Didiesse Frog	– Very hot and creamy espresso – Bottle reservoir: long autonomy – Easy maintenance, low-cost spare parts	– Slightly bulky compared to other models – No automatic shutdown – Less minimalist design
Didì Borbone	– Compact and lightweight – Low energy consumption – Great price in bundle	– Less thermal stability after first use – Lightweight plastic materials – No metal components
Lollina	– Brass group and metal body – Above-average extraction quality – Compact and stylish design	– No automatic shutdown – Needs cooling between multiple uses – Slightly more expensive than Didì
Faber Slot/Pro Deluxe	– Handcrafted build quality – Espresso bar-like performance – Customizable and durable	– Higher price compared to other models – Not the most compact – Slightly longer heating time