One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their watery, under-strength drinks. The best ones are much more than just that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods in place of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It offers a variety of capsules and is simple to customise.
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 most comprehensive set of features that we have tested. It comes with 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 or reusable pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock as well as an "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also comes with an integrated, fold-away frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate water reservoir is included). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system and reads the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine settings for an ideal cup every time. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model in making a full pot of coffee with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two modes of operation, and cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles are easily removable to clean, and the filter can be washed in the sink. 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 basic cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth and flavorful cup. It comes with a timer that can be programmed as well as a built-in milk maker and a reusable filter, and can make 12 cups of java at once. It has a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe to hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the trend of pod coffee machines and want to upgrade from your current Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent alternative. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, efficient and has the ability to make five different drinks on one sleek, compact chassis. It's even on sale right now, making it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is incredibly easy to use by pressing a single button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It uses patented Nespresso capsules that have a barcode on them that tells the machine what kind of coffee or espresso it is, ensuring you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin fast while brewing to create the foam, also known as crema. It is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's a bit louder than other pod machines and that you can't reuse capsules that you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is expensive when it is compared to other pod makers, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If, however, you've already convinced of the advantages of pod coffee, it's a small cost to get consistent results that resemble baristas. Plus, you can add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. It is also available in bundles that include some of the Nespresso pods as well as a frother. This will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have the same brewing process: you place a capsule in and press a button, and the coffee pours out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that eschew the rules of. It has a unique system for capsules that locks them into the portafilter handle. The machine produces espresso that is as good as what you would get in cafes, without the hassle and mess of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with only 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 create a thick and rich crema. The extraction happens entirely inside the capsule, so the machine and the coffee do not come into contact, and clean-up is easy.
This machine also has a Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. Its unique design, designed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s while seamlessly integrating 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 and stop the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll have to wait for a few minutes before making another cup of coffee to allow the air to escape.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most sought-after pod coffee machines on the market. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing and ease of operation are all important selling points. But does this little machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee coffee machine with capsules machines that are available however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It makes drinks at the push of a button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to create. It also sets the proper amount of the froth and water in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to achieve an excellent outcome every time.
It is very simple to use - just insert the desired T disc and choose the size of your drink. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks and a milk jug to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes to save energy.
The descaler is designed to slot into the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it's very quick and easy.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive an extra discount on your first order of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalised offers, recommendations and advice. You can also monitor the status of your machine and check how much it's used. It is an excellent idea immediately after you purchase it.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a renowned heritage brand and an industry leader in the field of coffee. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be run by his descendants and spans across the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing new technologies in the industry, and is renowned for its top quality espresso, which is made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have a particular focus on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and utilizing renewable energies. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and are focusing 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 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 to earn a B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies that are committed to ethics and have a mission. The company also recently launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and they have been named one of the world's Most Ethical Companies for the last seven years. The company has been committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well They have the conviction that it is up to everyone to take action.