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 makes use of B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also comes with a variety of capsule options as well as easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This single-serve drip coffee maker offers the best features of all the models we tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds and one-serve side that will accept any type of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock and an "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It also comes with a foldaway, built-in frother to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve version can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup or the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and analyzes the barcodes of each pod to adjust machine settings. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than Keurig's top-rated. It also comes with advanced features such as a 24-hour start, brew intensity controls and an automatic shutoff.
The device is easy to use despite the fact that it has two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles can be removed to clean, and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space however it's a great option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods or the versatility of ground coffee.
This budget-friendly cold brew machine produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It comes with a programmable timer, a built-in milk frother and a filter that can be reused, and can make 12 cups of java at a time. It has a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great choice for those who are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. 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, making it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is simple to use, using an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you are using. It uses patent-pending Nespresso capsules which have a barcode on them that tells the machine what kind of coffee or espresso it is, making sure you have the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods spin rapidly when they are brewing to create a layer of foam known as crema that is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine are that it's a bit more loud than other pod machines, and that you aren't able to reuse the used capsules. Fortunately, the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable and you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is expensive when compared to other pod machines particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod-coffee lover, it's an affordable price to be paid 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, which contain some samples of Nespresso pods and a frother. 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 the same pattern - capsules are placed on the top and then you press a button, and coffee flows out. However, every now and then there is a machine that is a complete blow to the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that locks them into the portafilter handle. This lets the machine create an espresso that's 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 contains precisely proportioned amounts of espresso that is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to produce an intense crema. The extraction takes place entirely inside the capsule, meaning that the coffee and machine never come into contact and cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine also comes with an Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks like cappuccino and latte macchiato. The unique design, developed by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slender, round forms and soft-touch buttons reminiscent of classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly mixing modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes prevent capsule coffee makers the hot water from flowing correctly, preventing the machine from working. If this happens, you'll have to wait 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 well-known pod coffee machines on the market. Its small dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are the main reasons for buying. Does this tiny machine meet the standards set by its parent company's? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee machines that are available, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It can make drinks with the push of a button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it needs to create. It also sets the proper amount for water and froth in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce the best results every time.
It's easy to use. Simply insert the desired T DISC and choose the size of your drink. There are 40 different drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making lattes or cappuccinos. It only takes three seconds to heat up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
It's easy to clean too using a cleverly-designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is quick and simple.
As an added bonus, if you sign up your Vivy with Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive a discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalised offers, recommendations and tips. You'll also be able keep track of the condition of your machine and know how much water it's used. Registering your machine is also a good idea immediately after you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in the coffee industry and an famous 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 business has a history of innovation and is renowned for its premium espresso made from nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability and has taken a variety of initiatives to protect the environment. They also ensure that their products are as eco-friendly as is possible. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint as well as using renewable energies. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and have a particular focus on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, Illycaffe is determined to help their employees achieve. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created an "university" of coffee to train consumers and professionals alike on how to make the best cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain the B-Corp designation, which is an international certification that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. The company also introduced 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 has been dedicated to proving that sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well, and they have an unshakeable belief that it is up to everyone to take action.