One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often accused of making watery, weak drinks. The best pods are more than just that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It comes with a range of capsule options and is easy to customize.
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 best combination of features that we have tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that accepts any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe has a programmable clock and a "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also comes with an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe for lattes and capspuccinos.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces per hour with any size of K-Cup and reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust machine settings. It's faster than a leading Keurig model when it comes to brewing a full pot using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two operating modes, and the cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles are easily removable for cleaning, and the filter can be washed in your sink. The machine is heavy and bulky for counter space but it's a great choice for those who desire the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option 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 in one go. pod capsule coffee machine has a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe that can hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already committed to the trend of pod coffee machines and want to upgrade from the Keurig-style machine you have, this is an excellent alternative. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks on one sleek, compact machine. It's currently on sale, making it an excellent choice for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine is then able to heat up quickly and is simple to use, thanks to an automatic button that adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It utilizes the patented Nespresso pods with an identifier barcode that tells the machine what kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly when they are brewing to create an emulsion known as crema that is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's more loud than other pod-machines and you aren't able to reuse capsules. 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 quite expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you factor in the cost of purchasing the pods. However, if you're already a believer in the benefits of pod coffee, it's only a small price to pay for consistent results that resemble baristas. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. It's also available as bundles that include samples of Nespresso capsules as well as milk frothers, which can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines follow a similar format - capsules are placed in the top and you press a button and coffee flows out. But every now and then, a device comes along that is a complete blow to the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a completely different system for capsules, locking them into place inside a portafilter-like handle. The machine produces espresso that is as good as what you would get in a cafe without the mess and hassle of a traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules which are made from premium coffee beans of the highest quality. Each capsule contains precisely proportions of ground espresso, which is brewed using a two-stage process. This creates a rich crema. The extraction is done entirely within the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are not in contact. Clean-up is also easy.
The coffee pod includes a Pannarello Steam Wand to make milky beverages like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. Its unique design, created by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, especially when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can block the hot water from flowing correctly, preventing the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll need to wait a couple of minutes before making another coffee to allow the excess air to let go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee makers available. The compact dimensions as well as the attractive pricing and user-friendly are major reasons to buy. But can this tiny machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is one of the most simple pod coffee machines that are available however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It makes drinks with the push of a button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC to know what drink it should make. It also automatically sets the proper amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
This makes it extremely simple to operate - just insert the desired T DISC, then select the size you prefer for your drink. There are 40 different drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It only takes three seconds to warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean too using a cleverly-designed descaler that slides into the side of the machine. This is a different process however it's fast and simple.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy with Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive an extra discount on your first order of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalized offers, recommendations and tips. You can also monitor the progress of your machine, and check how much it has used. Registering your machine is also recommended when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand and one of the leaders in the coffee industry. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still managed by his descendants. It is a global company. The family-owned and operated company has a long tradition of embracing innovation within the industry. It is renowned for its top quality espresso, which is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented numerous initiatives to preserve the environment. They also ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly as they can. They have focused on efficiency in energy use, and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment towards sustainability is matched by their determination to help their employees achieve. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created a "university" of coffee that educates both consumers and professionals on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned the 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 recognized as one of the World's Most ethical companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a part to play.