One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for being low-strength, watery drinks. However, the top pods are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also offers a range of capsule options as well as easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers available on the market, this drip and single-serve model offers the best blend of features we tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe which 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 as well as a "strong" setting that gives more flavor than standard settings. It also comes with a built-in, foldaway frother to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine's settings to ensure a perfect cup every time. 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 automatic shutoff.
It's easy to use, despite having two different operating modes, and the cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles can be removed to clean, and the filter can be washed in your sink. It's a bit bulky and heavy for counter space however, it's an excellent option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This low-cost cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It comes with a timer that can be programmed as well as a built-in milk maker and a reusable filter and can make 12 cups of java at once. It has a large tank of water, as well as glass carafes to hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option to consider if you're already a fan of the pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's newest espresso machine is sleek, efficient and has the ability to create five different drinks from one compact, sleek chassis. It's on sale now, making it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine Next can be heated up quickly and is extremely easy to use with a single-use button that automatically adapts to the type of capsule you're using. It makes use of patent-pending Nespresso capsules which have a barcode on them that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, making sure you have the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods spin rapidly during brewing, creating a layer of foam known as crema. It is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine are that it's a bit louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse the capsules that you've used. 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 no cost and they'll return them to you to recycle.
The machine is expensive when contrasted with other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you've already convinced of the benefits of pod coffee, it's a small cost to get consistent, barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. You can also purchase it in bundles, which include some of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines use a similar brewing process - you insert a capsule then press a button and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies the norm. It has a unique system for capsules that locks them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's like you would get at a cafe, however without all of the fuss and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with only illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule is stocked with an exact amount of ground espresso that is brewed in two stages. This results in a thick crema. The extraction happens entirely inside the capsule, meaning that the coffee and machine never come into contact and cleaning up is a breeze.
The coffee pod also comes with a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks, such as cappuccino or latte macchiato. The unique design, developed by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its round, slender shapes and soft-touch buttons are inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
One downside of this machine is that it needs a little more attention than some other models, particularly when you use the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the steam from flowing properly and stop the machine from working. If this happens, you'll need to wait a few minutes before making another coffee to allow the excess air to escape.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most sought-after coffee makers available. The small dimensions, attractive pricing and the ease of use are major reasons to buy. But can this machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't compromise on performance. It can make drinks with a single press of a button. It reads an image of a barcode on the DisC to determine the type of drink to make. It also automatically adjusts the correct amount of froth and water for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to achieve an excellent result every time.
It is very simple to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and then select the size of your drink. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks and a milk jug for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
The descaler has been designed to fit into the side of your machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the procedure is simple and quick.
If you sign up your Vivy, you'll receive a discount on your first T-DISCs order, along with customized offers, tips and advice. You can also keep track of the condition of your machine and find out how much it's used. It is recommended as soon as you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand and leader in the coffee industry. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing innovation within the field, and is renowned for its top quality espresso that is made from 9 different varieties coffee pod machines of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number initiatives to help preserve the environment. They also make sure that their products are as environmentally friendly as they can. They have focused their efforts on efficiency in their energy use and are committed to reducing their emissions, and the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted the practice of regenerative agriculture and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, illycaffe is also determined to help their employees thrive. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their employees and have created an "university of coffee" that helps to educate consumers and professionals about how to enjoy the most optimal cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned the B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies that place a high value on ethics and a purpose. The company also recently launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and has been named one of the world's Most Ethical Companies for the past seven years. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a part to take on.