One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently accused of producing weak, watery drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of the dreaded 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 top pod coffee makers on the market, this drip and single-serve model offers the most comprehensive set of features in our test. It has a 12-cup carafe which makes grounds in the traditional way, and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe side comes with an adjustable timer as well as it has a "strong" setting that provides more flavor than standard settings. It has an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe for capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust machine's settings to make an ideal cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than the Keurig that is the most popular. It also comes with advanced features, like a 24 hour start, brew intensity controls and automatic shutoff.
It's easy to use, despite having two different modes of operation, and cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles, and mesh filter can be removed for cleaning. The device is heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's a great choice for those who prefer the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew maker is a great value option that delivers a smooth and flavorful cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer, an integrated milk frother, and a coffee filter that is reusable. It comes with a large reservoir of water, as well as a glass carafe to hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option if you are already a fan of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, efficient and can create five different drinks with one compact chassis. It's available for sale right now which makes it a great choice for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine Next can be heated up quickly and is incredibly easy to use with a single-use button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It uses the patented Nespresso pods that feature a barcode to tell the machine what kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you get the correct temperature and pressure for every drink. The capsules spin fast while brewing to create an emulsion known as crema. It is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine are that it's louder than other pod machines, and that you aren't able to reuse the capsules you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is also pretty expensive in comparison to other pod coffee machines, especially when you take into account the cost of purchasing the pods. If you're already a pod coffee lover, it's an affordable price to pay for consistent barista-like results. Additionally, you can add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. It's also available as bundles that include samples of Nespresso capsules as well as milk frothers, which can save you money in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you insert a capsule, press a button and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies the norm. It has a unique system for capsules that bind them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's as good as you'd get in a cafe, but without the hassle and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with only illy MIE pods that are made from premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule is stocked with an exact amount of espresso ground, which is then brewed with a specific two-stage process to produce a thick and rich crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are never in contact. Clean-up is also an easy task.
The coffee pod includes a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky drinks such as cappuccino and Latte Macchiato. The distinctive design of this machine, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your living space. Its round but slender forms and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
One drawback of this machine is that it requires some more attention than other models, particularly when you are using the steam wand. The reason for this is that the excess air can sometimes stop the flow of hot water, which prevents the machine from working efficiently. It is necessary to wait several minutes before making another cup of coffee to let the air out.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most popular coffee machines available. The small size, attractive pricing, and ease of operation are all major reasons to buy. Does this machine meet the high standards set forth by the parent company? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines available however it doesn't compromise on performance. It makes drinks at the press of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC to determine which drink it has to create. It also sets the proper amount of the froth and water in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce an excellent outcome every time.
This makes it easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC and choose the desired drink size. There are 40 drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk container for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes just three seconds to warm and automatically shuts off after five minutes, to save energy.
It's easy to clean using a cleverly-designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it's fast and easy.
If you register your Vivy, you'll receive a discount on your first order of T-DISCs, and also customized offers, tips and suggestions. You'll also be able to monitor the health of your machine, and also see the amount of water it has used. It's worth registering your machine as soon as you buy it, too.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is read more a market leader in the coffee industry and an iconic heritage brand, is a global leader. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still operated by his descendants. It is a global company. The family-owned company has a long tradition of innovation and is known for its top-quality espresso that is made from nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a number 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 and the use of renewable energy sources. They have also been working to promote regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to help their employees succeed. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their employees, and they have also created a "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals alike on how to make the most optimal cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to earn the B-Corp designation, which is an international certification that recognizes businesses that are committed to ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named as one of the world's most Ethical companies for the past seven years. The company has been committed to proving that sustainable quality can be beneficial to the environment and for people as well They have a strong belief that it is up to everyone to take action.