One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticized for making watery, weak drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also has bundles of capsule options as well as easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers on the market, this single-serve and drip model has the best blend of features that we have tested. It has a 12-cup carafe that brews grounds in the traditional way and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe's side features an adjustable timer and an "strong" setting that provides more flavor than the normal settings. It also comes with an integrated, fold-away frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup, or a reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate reservoir for water is included). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings to make the perfect cup every time. It's faster than a leading Keurig model at making a full pot of coffee using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use, despite having two different operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The reusable pod adapter and needles can be removed for cleaning and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. The device is heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's an excellent option for those who want the convenience of pods or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This affordable cold brew maker produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer, an integrated milk frother as well as an coffee filter that is reusable. It comes with a large reservoir of water as well as glass carafes to hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is an excellent option for those who are already a fan of pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, efficient and can create five different drinks in one small chassis. It's available for sale right now, making it an excellent choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is incredibly easy to use, with a single button that automatically adapts to the kind of capsule you're using. It makes use of patent-pending Nespresso pods that feature barcodes that inform the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly while brewing to create the foam, also known as crema that is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod-machines and you can't 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 take them back to recycle.
The machine is also pretty expensive in comparison to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you factor in the cost of buying the pods. However, if you're already bought in to the advantages of pod coffee, it's only a small price to pay for consistent, barista-style results. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for cappuccinos or lattes. You can also buy it in bundles, which include a few samples of the Nespresso pods as well as a frother. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you insert a capsule, press a button and the coffee is brewed. However, every now and then a machine comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a unique system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. The machine can make espresso that is similar to the kind you get at a cafe, but without the mess and fuss of a traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE capsules which are made from premium, high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule is stocked with a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed using two stages. This produces a rich crema. The extraction happens entirely within the capsule, so the coffee and machine never come into contact and cleaning up is easy.
This machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks, such as cappuccino or latte macchiato. The distinctive design of this machine, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a design statement in your home. Its round, slender shapes and soft-touch buttons are like the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the hot water from flowing properly, preventing the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll need to wait for a few minutes before preparing another coffee to allow the excess air to escape.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most sought-after pod coffee machines available on the market. The small dimensions, attractive pricing, and user-friendly are important selling points. Does this tiny machine meet the high 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, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It makes drinks with the touch of a single button, analyzing a personalised barcode on each T DISC to determine which drink it needs to create. It also determines the right amount for the froth and water in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to achieve the best results every time.
This makes it easy to operate - just insert the desired T DISC and choose the size you prefer for your drink. 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 warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean, too, with a cleverly designed descaler that slots into the side of the machine. This is a separate process, but it's quick and easy.
As an added bonus, if you sign up your Vivy with Bosch, you'll get discounts on pod coffee machines your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalized offers, recommendations and tips. You'll also be able to keep track of the condition of your machine, and also see how much water it's been using. Registering your machine is also an excellent idea immediately after you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe, a leader in the coffee market and iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It has a presence across the globe. The family-owned and operated company has a long tradition of innovating within the field, and is known for its premium quality espresso, which is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has implemented a number initiatives to to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as environmentally friendly as is possible. They have a particular focus on efficiency in energy use, and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and also the use of renewable energy sources. They also promote the practice of regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment towards sustainability is matched by their desire to help their employees achieve. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created an "university" of coffee to train professionals and consumers alike on how to make the best cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain B-Corp certification. This is an international label that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense of mission. The company also recently launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods. They have also been named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the past seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a role to take on.