One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticised for producing weak, watery drinks. The best ones are much more than just that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and 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 top pod coffee makers available on the market, this single-serve and drip model has the best combination of features we tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that can accept any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock as well as an "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It comes with an adjustable frother that folds away and is integrated into the carafe to serve cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup, the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup, or ground coffee (a separate water tank is included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system and analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine settings for the perfect cup every time. It's faster than a leading Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like a 24 hour brew start, brew strength controls, and auto shutoff.
The device is simple to use despite the fact that it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles and mesh filter are easily removed for cleaning. 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 has a programmable timer, a built-in milk frother and a reusable filter, and can make 12 cups of java at once. It comes with a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option to consider if you're already a fan of pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's latest espresso machine is stylish, quick and has the ability to make five different drinks on one sleek, compact machine. It's available for sale right now, making it an excellent choice for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine is then able to heat up quickly and is easy to use, using an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you are using. It uses the patented Nespresso capsules that have a barcode on them that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring that you have the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods spin rapidly while brewing to create a layer of foam called crema, which is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine are that it's more loud than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse capsules that you've used. Fortunately, the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable, so you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for no cost and they'll return them to recycle.
The machine is also pretty expensive in comparison to other pod coffee machines, especially when you consider the cost of purchasing the pods. If you've already bought in to the advantages of pod coffee, it's a low cost to pay for consistent, barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for lattes or cappuccinos. It's also offered in bundles that include a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frothers which could help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines follow the same pattern - capsules are placed in the top, you press a button and the coffee oozes out. However, every now and then a device comes along that is a complete blow to the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that locks them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to produce an espresso similar to what you'd find at a cafe, however without all of the fuss and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible only with illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule is stocked with precisely proportions of ground espresso that is brewed in two stages. This produces a rich crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule, which means that the machine and the coffee do not come into contact, and clean-up coffee pods machines is a breeze.
This coffee maker includes a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky beverages like cappuccino or macchiato latte. The distinctive design of this coffee pod machine, designed by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your home. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
One drawback of this machine is that it requires some extra attention than other models, particularly when you use the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can block the hot water from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue working. It is necessary to wait a few moments before preparing a second coffee to let the excess air out.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee machines on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and easy-to-use are the main reasons for buying. But can this tiny machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee maker, but it doesn't sacrifice performance. It makes drinks with the touch of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC in order to determine what drink it should create. It also sets the correct amount for water and froth in each drink by using Intellibrew Technology to achieve an excellent outcome every time.
This makes it extremely simple to use - simply insert the desired T DISC and choose your preferred drink size. The Vivy has 40 different drinks as well as a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes just three seconds to heat and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
The descaler is cleverly designed to slot into the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it's very quick and simple.
As an added bonus, if you sign up your Vivy with Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive a discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalized offers, recommendations and suggestions. You'll also be in a position to track the status of your machine and see how much water it's used. It's a good idea to register your machine as soon as you buy it, also.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in the world of coffee and an iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still managed by his descendants and spans the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is known for its top-quality espresso that is made using nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has taken a variety of initiatives to help to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-friendly as they can. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint as well as using renewable energies. They also have worked to promote regenerative farming, and have a strong focus on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is determined to help their employees thrive. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees and they have developed a "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals alike on how to make the best possible cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to earn a B-Corp certification, which is an international label which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was named one of the World's Most ethical companies for the last seven year. The company is committed to demonstrating that sustainable quality can be beneficial to the environment and for people as well They have the conviction that it is up to everyone to take action.