One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for watery, under-strength drinks. Fortunately, the best ones can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the dreaded K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It has a variety of capsules and is simple to personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the most impressive features of the models we tested. It has a 12-cup carafe which makes grounds in the traditional way and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock as well as it has a "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It has an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe for capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup or reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate water reservoir is included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust machine's settings to ensure the perfect cup every time. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles and mesh filter can be removed to clean. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This low-cost cold brew machine creates a smooth, delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock, an integrated milk frother and an coffee filter that can be reused. It comes with a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe that can hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option for those who are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's latest espresso machine is sleek, fast and has the ability to create five different drinks from one sleek, compact chassis. It's also on sale now which makes it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is simple to use, thanks to a button that adapts automatically to the type capsule you are using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso capsules which have an identifier on them that informs the machine of what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring you have the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly during brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, 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 the capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is costly when contrasted with other pod machines particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If you're already a coffee pod lover, it's an affordable price to pay for consistently barista-style results. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for cappuccinos or lattes. It is also available in bundles that include some of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is about brewing, most pod machines adhere to a similar format - a capsule goes in the top and you press a button and coffee flows out. But every now and then, a machine comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that locks them into a portafilter handle. This allows the machine to produce an espresso as good as you'd get at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE pods that are made from top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule contains precisely proportions of ground espresso that is brewed using a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction happens entirely inside the capsule, which means that the coffee and machine never meet and cleaning up is easy.
This coffee pod machine includes 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, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your home. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 60s, while seamlessly integrating advanced technology.
This machine requires more attention, especially when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that the excess air can sometimes hinder the flow of hot water, preventing the machine from working effectively. It is necessary to wait for several minutes before making another cup of coffee in order to let the air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee machines available. Its small dimensions, attractive price tag and user-friendly interface are among the major selling points. But does this little machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It can make drinks with a single press of a button. It scans the barcode on the DISC to determine which drink to make. It also sets the correct amount for the froth and water in each drink by using Intellibrew Technology to produce an outstanding result every time.
It's easy to use - just insert the desired T disc and select the size of your drink. There are pod capsule coffee machine 40 different drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes just three seconds to heat and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
The descaler is designed to fit on the side of your machine. There are separate directions for this, but the process is quick and simple.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch, you'll get a discount on your first order of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalised offers, recommendations and advice. You can also track the status of your machine and find out how much it has been used. Registering your machine is recommended immediately after you purchase it.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a renowned heritage brand that is a leader in the coffee industry. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is managed by his descendants and spans the globe. The family-owned and operated company has a long track record of embracing new technologies within the field, and is renowned for its high quality espresso made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented numerous initiatives to help preserve the environment. They also make sure that their products are as green as possible. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions and utilizing renewable energy sources. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to help their employees succeed. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created a "university" of coffee to educate both consumers and professionals on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded a B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies that place a high value on ethics and a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical companies for the past seven years. The company is dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a role to take on.