Review on CAPMESSO Reusable Vertuoline Coffee Pod - Compatible With GCA1, ENV135 & BNV250 (2.5Oz Newest 2.0 Version) Not For VERTUO PLUS/NEXT by Ken Booker

I am a long time Nespresso user and continue to buy 8-10 sleeves of their capsules monthly (mostly for my wife who does not have the patience to play "Barista" like I do!). But if you're so inclined, I find this product, like their earlier version, to be an enjoyable way of experimenting with different types of coffee brands, flavors, grinds, etc.; even making my own blends to suit seasonal variations. This latest pod being reviewed here is slightly lighter (thinner metal) than the prior version. Apparently some folks' coffee machines had problems with the heavier pod. However, both versions work fairly well in my DeLonghi nespresso maker. This latest pod also differs from the previous in 3 other ways from what I can observe: the 24 small holes in the lid are now even slightly smaller; the center hole in the lid is now a complete hole rather than several perforated holes,; and the bar code is now a sticker (extras provided) rather than painted on the lid.This version, like the old, seems to make acceptable coffee but in doing so I have to take certain precautions. First, you must use fine ground (espresso ground) coffee. If you use coarser grinds the coffee will be weak and you won't get a nice "crema." Second, when making my pods I find that if I don't "top off" the fine grinds with a top layer scoop of slightly coarser ground coffee, and tamp it lightly, the fine grinds will make their way into some of the 24 smaller holes in the lid thereby clogging the flow and sometimes causing enough blockage to result in a back-flow that causes a puddle to form on the countertop (underneath my coffee maker). I have this problem with the original pod version too, but not quite as bad. I suppose it's possible, if others aren't having this problem, it could be a problem unique to MY coffee maker.Over all, I like this product and will continue to use the new and the older version pods daily. They are, in my opinion, far superior to the other models that use glue-on aluminum lids, or even the press-fit metal lids -- both nearly destroyed my machine. Just be sure when you screw on the lid, first wipe off any coffee grinds that may adhere to the threads. Also, once the percolation process is complete, remove the pod. It will be a little hot to the touch, but sometimes if you keep it in the machine for more than a minute it becomes a little difficult (though not impossible) to extract it later. And finally, if you like your coffee stronger, you may want to hit the "end" button after about 6 or 7 ounces rather than letting it run the full 8 ounce process. (Some Nespresso makers have a programable function that allows you to "set and forget" this early shut-off option -- read your manual).So, once again, I'll give this product 4 out of 5 stars. I was hoping to give it 5, but it's still not 100% perfect. I believe one day this company will get it right. They are very responsive to any questions from customers, and seem to be working hard making continuous improvements to one day in the future earn that 5th star!