One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for being watery, under-strength drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsule options and is easy to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers on the market, this single-serve and drip models offer 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 type of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe side comes with an adjustable timer and it has a "strong" setting that gives more flavor than the standard settings. It also has an integrated, fold-away frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve version can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup or reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate water reservoir is included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that reads the barcode on each pod to adjust machine settings for the perfect cup every time. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model in making a full-sized pot of brew thanks to 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 clean-up is relatively painless. The reusable pod adapter and needles are easily removable to clean, and the filter can be washed in the sink. The machine is heavy and heavy for counter space, however it's a great choice for those who want the convenience of pods or the versatility of coffee ground.
This low-cost cold brew machine creates a smooth, delicious cup. It can create 12 cups at a time and comes with a programmable clock, an integrated milk frother as well as an coffee filter that can be reused. It also comes with a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe for hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already committed to the pod coffee machine trend and want to upgrade from the Keurig-style machine you have, this is an excellent option. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is stylish, fast and can create five different drinks with one compact chassis. It's on sale now making it an excellent option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine is then able to heat up quickly and is easy to use, with an automatic button that adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso capsules with an identifier on them that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring you get the correct temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods spin quickly while brewing, resulting in an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema, which is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod-machines and you can't reuse capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is pricey when compared to other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod-coffee fan, this is an affordable price to be paid for consistently barista-like results. Additionally, you can add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few samples of Nespresso capsules and milk frothers, which can save you money in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is about brewing, most pod machines follow the same format: a capsule goes in the top and then you press a button and the coffee is poured out. But now and then there is a machine that breaks convention right out of the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that bind them into a portafilter handle. The machine can produce espresso that is as good as what you would get in a cafe without the hassle and mess of an espresso machine that is traditional.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE pods which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule contains a precise amount of ground espresso, which is brewed in a two-stage process. This creates a rich crema. The extraction takes place entirely inside the capsule, which means that the machine and the coffee do not come into contact and cleanup is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine also has an Pannarello steam wand that can be used to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. Its unique design, designed by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. 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.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes prevent the steam from flowing properly, preventing the machine from functioning. It is necessary to wait a few moments before preparing another cup of coffee to let the excess air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most popular pod coffee machines on the market. The small size as well as the attractive pricing and user-friendly are major reasons to buy. Does this little machine meet the standards set by its parent company's standards? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee machines available however it doesn't compromise on performance. It can make drinks with just a single touch. It scans an image of a barcode on the DISC to determine which drink to make. It also sets the proper amount for water and froth in each drink using Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
It's very easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC, and then select the size of your drink. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks as well as a milk jug to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm up and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean, too, with a cleverly designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is easy and quick.
As an added bonus, if you sign up your Vivy with Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive discounts on your first order of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalized offers, recommendations and suggestions. You'll also be in a position to track the status of your machine and know how much water it's used. It's a good idea to register your machine at the time you purchase it, too.
5. Illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic brand with a long history and is a one of the best coffee machines with pods leaders in the coffee industry. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It is a global company. The family-owned and operated business has a long tradition of embracing innovation within the industry. It is renowned for its top quality espresso made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally green as they can. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint as well as using 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 committed to helping their employees succeed. They have invested in training programs for their employees, and have created an "university" of coffee that educates both consumers and professionals on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to earn the B-Corp designation, which is an international designation that recognizes businesses that are committed to 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 over the past seven years. The company is committed to proving that sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people alike and has the conviction that it is the responsibility of everyone to take action.