One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their the watery, weak drinks. The best pods are more than just that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsule options and is easy to personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This single-serve drip coffee maker offers the best features of all the models we tested. It has a 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional way and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe has a programmable clock as well as it has a "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It has an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe for capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup and reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and analyzes the barcodes of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's faster at brewing full pots than a leading Keurig. It also has advanced features like a 24-hour start, brew intensity control and an automatic shutoff.
The device is easy to use, despite the fact that it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles, and mesh filter are easily removed for cleaning. It's a bit bulky and heavy for counter space however, it's an excellent option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget pick that produces smooth and delicious cups. It can create 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer and a milk frother that is integrated as well as an reusable coffee filter. It has a large reservoir of water, as well as a glass carafe to hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great choice if you are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's newest espresso machine is sleek, efficient and has the ability to create five different drinks from one compact, sleek chassis. It's available for sale right now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine Next is very hot quickly and is extremely easy to use, with a single button that automatically adapts to the type of capsule you're using. It uses patented Nespresso pods that have an identifier barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin fast during brewing, creating an exquisite layer of foam, also known as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's louder than other pod-machines and you can't reuse capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.
The machine is also pretty expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you consider the cost of buying pods. However, if you're already bought in to the benefits of pod coffee, it's a low cost to pay for consistent, barista-style results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. You can also buy it in bundles that include some of the Nespresso pods and a frother. This will save you money up front.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you simply insert a capsule then press a button and the coffee is brewed. But now and then there is a machine that breaks convention right out of the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that locks them into a portafilter handle. This lets the machine make an espresso that is like you would get at a cafe, but without the hassle and mess that is typical of an espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules, which are made from premium coffee beans of the highest quality. Each capsule contains an exact amount of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process that produces an intense crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule, meaning that the machine and coffee never meet and cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee maker is equipped with a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and Latte Macchiato. The distinctive design of this coffee machine, designed by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure pod coffee machines to make a bold design statement in your home. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is because excess air can sometimes stop the flow of hot water, which prevents the machine from working efficiently. If this happens, you'll have to wait a few minutes before preparing another coffee to allow the air to let go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most sought-after coffee machines available. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and ease of use are among the major selling points. Does this tiny machine meet the standards set by its parent company's? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is one of the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't compromise on performance. It makes drinks at the press of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to create. It also sets the correct amount for water and froth in every drink by using Intellibrew technology to ensure an outstanding result every time.
This makes it easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC and select the size you prefer for your drink. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks and a milk jug for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to heat and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
It's easy to clean thanks to a cleverly designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. This is a different process, but it's quick and easy.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive an extra discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalised offers, recommendations and tips. You can also track the status of your machine, and find out how much it has used. It's worth registering your machine at the time you purchase it, too.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in the coffee market and famous heritage brand, is a world leader. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still managed by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned and operated company has a long tradition of embracing new technologies within the industry. It is renowned for its high quality espresso, which is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally green as they can. They have focused on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint as well as the use of renewable energies. They also promote the practice of regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their commitment to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees and have developed an "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals about how to enjoy the most optimal cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to earn an B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies that are committed to ethics and a sense of purpose. The company has also launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods. They have also been named one of the World's most ethical companies over the last seven years. The company has been committed to proving that sustainable quality can make a difference for both the environment and people, and they have a strong belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to take action.