One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have a bit of an undeserved reputation for being the watery, weak drinks. However, the top pods can offer much more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods, which are made of treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the notorious K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also comes with a variety of capsule options as well as easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This single-serve drip coffee maker offers the best features of the models we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional manner and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe's side features an adjustable timer as well as it has a "strong" setting that produces more flavor than the standard settings. It also has a built-in, foldaway frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve version can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust machine settings. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model at making a full pot of coffee using 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 has two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles, and mesh filter can be removed to clean. 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 low-cost cold brew machine produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It comes with 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 reservoir of water as well as glass carafes to hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already committed to the pod coffee machine trend and want to upgrade from your Keurig-style machine this is a great option. Nespresso's newest espresso machine is stylish, quick and can make five different drinks on one sleek, compact machine. It's on sale now which makes it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is easy to use, using a button that adapts automatically to the type of capsule you are using. It uses the patented Nespresso capsules that have a barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin fast during brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, referred to as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only 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 free, and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is pricey when contrasted with other pod machines particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If, however, you've already bought in to the advantages of pod coffee, it's a low cost to pay for consistent, barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. You can also purchase it in bundles, which contain some of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines adhere to a similar format - a capsule goes in the top and then you press a button, and the coffee oozes out. But every now and then, a device comes along that is a complete blow to capsule coffee machine uk 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. This allows the machine to make an espresso that is similar to what you'd find at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE pods, which are made of premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule has a precise dose of espresso ground, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to produce a rich crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule. This means that the machine and the coffee are not in contact. Cleaning up is easy.
The coffee pod comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky drinks like cappuccino or latte Macchiato. Its unique design, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes stop the flow of hot water, which can prevent the machine from working effectively. It is necessary to wait for some time before making another cup of coffee to let the air out.
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 small dimensions as well as the attractive pricing and the ease of use are important selling points. But can this machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We tested it 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 with the touch of a single button, analyzing a personalised barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to create. It also automatically adjusts the proper amount of froth and water for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to achieve the best results every time.
It's easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and then select the size of your drink. 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 heat and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean, too using a cleverly-designed descaler that slots into the side of the machine. This is a separate process however it's very quick and easy.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch, you'll get a discount on your first purchase of T DISCs and receive personalised offers, recommendations and suggestions. You can also keep track of the status of your machine and check how much it has used. It is a good idea to register your machine as soon as you buy it, as well.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a well-known heritage brand that is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still managed by his descendants and is spread across the world. The family-owned company has a long tradition of innovation and is famous for its premium espresso made using nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help protect the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly as possible. They have focused their efforts on efficiency in their energy use and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and the use of renewable energies. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, Illycaffe is determined to help their employees thrive. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their staff, and they have also developed an "university of coffee" that assists in educating both professionals and consumers about how to enjoy the best cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded an B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies that are committed to ethics and a purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was named as one of the top 10 World's ethical companies for the last seven years. The company has been committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can be beneficial to the environment and people alike They have a strong belief that it is up to everyone to do their part.