One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticised for producing watery, weak drinks. Fortunately, the best ones can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It offers a variety of capsules and is easy to customise.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker offers the best features of all the models we tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds and a single-serve side that accepts any type of K-Cup Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock as well as an "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also has an integrated, fold-away frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces at a single time with any size of K-Cup and reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model at making a full pot of coffee with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two operating modes, and cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles, and mesh filter can be removed for cleaning. The machine is heavy and heavy for counter space, however it's a great choice for those who prefer the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget pick that delivers smooth and delicious cups. It can make 12 cups at once and has a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother, and an reusable coffee filter. It also has a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe to serve hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the trend of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent option. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is sleek, fast and can create five different drinks in one compact chassis. It's currently on sale, making it an excellent option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is simple to use, with an automatic button that adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It makes use of the patented Nespresso capsules that have an identifier on them which tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring you get the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods also spin fast when brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, known as crema, that is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod machines and you aren't able to reuse capsules. Fortunately the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable so you can drop them off at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free and they'll return them to you to reuse.
The machine is costly when it is compared to other pod makers in particular when you consider the cost of the pods. If, however, you've already convinced of the advantages of pod coffee, it's a small cost to get consistent results that resemble baristas. Plus, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for lattes and cappuccinos. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and a milk frother, which can save you money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is time to brew, the majority of pod machines adhere to the same format: capsules are placed in the top and you press a button and coffee flows out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy the norm. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. This lets the machine produce an espresso similar to what you'd find at a cafe, but without all of the fuss and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods that are made from premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule contains precisely proportions of ground espresso that is brewed using two stages. This produces a rich crema. The extraction is performed entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and the coffee are never in contact. Clean-up is also a breeze.
This coffee pod machine is equipped with a Pannarello Steam Wand to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte Macchiato. The unique design, developed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. Its round but slender forms and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can prevent the steam from flowing properly, preventing the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll need to wait a few minutes before making 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 adored coffee machines on the market. The small dimensions, attractive pricing and the ease of use are important selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines that are available, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It can make drinks with just a simple press of a button. It reads an image of a barcode on the DISC to determine which drink to prepare. It also determines the right amount of water and froth in every drink by using Intellibrew Technology to achieve an outstanding result every time.
This makes it very easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC and choose the desired drink size. There are 40 drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making cappuccinos or lattes. It only takes three seconds to heat and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
It's easy to clean, too thanks to a cleverly designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. This is a different process however it's very quick and simple.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you'll get a discount on your first order of T-DISCs, and also specific offers, tips and suggestions. You'll also be able monitor the health of your machine and see how much water it has used. Registering your machine is an excellent idea immediately after you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand and one of the leaders in the coffee industry. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is operated by his children and spans across the globe. The family-owned business has a history of innovation and is known for its high-quality espresso crafted from nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco green as they can. They have focused on efficiency in their energy use and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, and the use of renewable energy sources. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, Illycaffe is committed to helping their employees thrive. They have invested in training programs for their employees, and have created an "university" of coffee to educate professionals and consumers alike on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned a B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies who prioritize ethics and a sense of purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named as one of the world's most ethical companies over the last seven year. The company has been committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well They have the conviction that it is coffee machine with capsules up to everyone to take action.