Never had a pod machine but read a lot of reviews; many negative regarding the milk pods exploding. I got it anyway and have no problem...you simply have to follow the instructions and shake them very well. I'm disabled and find it really easy to use, only the drip tray to rinse and no coffee mess to clear up. Again some grumble that the water tank is small but I like this as it means the water is always fresh. One happy Me !