One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have a bit of an undeserved reputation for being watery, under-strength drinks. Fortunately, the best ones can offer much more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also comes with a variety of capsules and simple customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the most impressive features of the models we have tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds, and a single-serve side that accepts any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock and a "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It comes with a fold-away frother that is built into the carafe to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces at a time with any size of K-Cup, reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine settings for the perfect cup every time. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model in brewing a full pot with 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 up easily. The reusable pod adapter and needles are easily removable to clean, and the mesh filter is washable in the sink. The device is heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's an excellent option for those who desire the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget pick that delivers smooth and delicious cups. It has a programmable timer, a built-in milk frother and a reusable filter and can make 12 cups of java at once. It has a large tank of water as well as a glass carafe to hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already bought in to the trend of pod coffee machines and want to upgrade from your current Keurig-style machine this is a great option. Nespresso's latest espresso machine is sleek, fast and can create five different drinks from one sleek, compact chassis. It's on sale now, making it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is simple to use, thanks to a button that adapts automatically to the type of capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso pods that have an identifier barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly during brewing, creating an exquisite layer of foam, referred to as crema, that is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod-machines and that you cannot reuse capsules. 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 you to recycle.
The machine is also expensive when compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you consider the cost of purchasing the pods. If you're already a pod coffee lover, it's an affordable price to be paid for consistently barista-style results. Additionally, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. You can also buy it in bundles that include some samples of Nespresso pods as well as coffee machines with pods 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 use the same format: capsules are placed on the top, you press a button, and the coffee oozes out. But now and then there is a machine that blows convention 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 the portafilter handle. The machine can make espresso that is comparable to the one you can get in cafes, without the mess and fuss of a traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods that are made from premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule contains precisely proportioned amounts of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a special two-stage process to create an intense crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are never in contact. Clean-up is also an easy task.
The coffee pod also has a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks like cappuccino and macchiato latte. The unique design of this coffee machine, designed by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a design statement in your living space. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s, while seamlessly integrating advanced technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, especially when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can prevent the hot water from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue functioning. You will need to wait for several minutes before making another cup of coffee in order to let the excess air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most well-known pod coffee machines on the market. The small size, attractive pricing, and user-friendly are important selling points. But does this little machine live up to the high standards set by the parent company? We went for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee machines available however it doesn't compromise on performance. It makes drinks with the touch of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it needs to create. It also automatically sets the proper amount of froth and water for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to ensure an outstanding result every time.
It is very simple to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and choose the size of your drink. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks and an milk jug that can be used to make cappuccinos or lattes. It only takes three seconds to heat up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
The descaler is designed to fit into the side of the machine. This is a different process, but it's quick and simple.
If you register your Vivy, you'll get a discount on your first order of T-DISCs and also specific offers, tips and recommendations. You can also monitor the status of your machine and see how much it has used. Registering your machine is also a good idea when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe, a leader in the coffee market and famous heritage brand, is a global leader. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still managed by his descendants and spans across the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is known for its top-quality espresso that is made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has implemented numerous initiatives to help to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-friendly as is possible. They have focused on efficiency in energy use, and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, and the use of renewable energy sources. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture and have a particular focus on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to help their employees achieve. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created a "university" of coffee to educate consumers and professionals alike on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned an B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies that place a high value on ethics and a sense of purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named one of the World's Most Ethical companies for the past seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a responsibility to play.