One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for watery, under-strength drinks. The best ones are much more than just that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also offers a range of capsule options and easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the top pod coffee makers on the market, this combination single-serve and drip model has the best blend of features we tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe which is brewed in the traditional way, and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe's side features an adjustable timer and a "strong" setting that produces more flavor than normal settings. It also comes with an easy-to-folding frother that's built into the carafe for capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup, the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's faster at brewing full pots than Keurig's top-rated. It also comes with advanced features like a 24-hour start, brew intensity control and an automatic shutoff.
The device is simple to use, despite the fact that it has two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The reusable pod adapter and needles can be removed for cleaning, and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This affordable cold brew maker produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and comes with a programmable clock and a milk frother that is integrated, and a reusable coffee filter. It has a large reservoir of water as well as glass carafes to hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is an excellent option to consider if you're already a fan of pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's newest espresso machine is sleek, fast and has the ability to make five different drinks on one sleek, compact machine. It's also on sale now, making it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is simple to use, with an automatic button that adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It makes use of the patented Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and water pressure for each drink. The pods spin rapidly while brewing to create an emulsion known as crema. It is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's louder than other pod-machines and you aren't able to reuse capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.
The machine is expensive when it is compared to other pod makers, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you've already bought in to the advantages of pod coffee, it's a low cost to get consistent, barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for cappuccinos or lattes. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few samples of Nespresso capsules and a milk frother, which can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is time to brew, the majority of pod machines follow a similar format - 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 blows convention out of the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a unique system for capsules that lock them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to produce an espresso similar to what you'd find in a cafe, but without all of the fuss and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE capsules that are made of premium high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule contains a precise dose of espresso that is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to create an intense crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are never in contact. Cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine also has an Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks, such as cappuccino or macchiato latte. The distinctive design of this coffee pod machine, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a statement in your home. Its slender, round shapes and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly merging modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is because excessive air can prevent the hot water from flowing correctly making it impossible for the machine to continue working. It is necessary to wait for some time before making a second coffee to let the excess air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most sought-after coffee machines available. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and easy-to-use are among the major selling points. Does this little machine meet the standards set by its parent company's standards? We tried it out 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 create drinks with a single touch. It reads the barcode on the DisC to determine the type of drink to make. It also automatically adjusts the correct amount of water and froth for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to ensure an outstanding result every time.
This makes it extremely simple to use - just insert the desired T DISC and choose your preferred drink size. There are 40 different drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk container for making lattes or cappuccinos. It only takes three seconds to heat up and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean using a cleverly-designed descaler that slots into the side of the machine. There are separate directions for this, but the procedure is quick and simple.
As an added benefit, if register your Vivy through Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive an extra discount on your first purchase of T DISCs and receive personalized offers, suggestions and advice. You'll also be able to monitor the health of your machine and see how much water it has been using. Registering your machine is also recommended when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a renowned brand with a long history and is a leader in the coffee industry. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still operated by his descendants. It has a presence across the globe. The family-owned company has a long tradition of innovation and is famous for its high-quality espresso crafted from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives to safeguard the environment and coffee capsule machine ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have focused on energy efficiency, and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted regenerative farming and are focused on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, illycaffe is determined to help their employees thrive. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created an "university" of coffee to educate professionals and consumers alike on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain a B-Corp certification, which is an international certification that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense of mission. 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 year. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a responsibility to play.