One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often accused of producing watery, weak drinks. The best pods are 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 personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers on the market, this drip and single-serve model offers the most comprehensive set of features we tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe which makes grounds in the traditional way, and one-serve that will accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe has a programmable clock as well as it has a "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also comes with a foldaway, built-in frother to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces at a time using any size K-Cup, the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine's settings to ensure an ideal cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's more efficient in brewing full-pots than a leading Keurig. It also comes with advanced features like a 24-hour start, brew intensity controls and automatic shutoff.
The device is simple to use despite the fact that it has two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The reusable pod adapter, needles and mesh filter can be easily removed for cleaning. The machine is heavy and bulky for counter space but it's an excellent option for those who want the convenience of pods or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that produces smooth and delicious cups. It can create 12 cups at a time and comes with a programmable clock and a milk frother that is integrated, and an coffee filter that can be reused. It has a large tank of water and glass carafes to hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already bought in to the pod coffee machine trend and are looking to upgrade your Keurig-style machine This is a great alternative. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, efficient, and can make five different drinks on one chassis. It's also on sale now which makes it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine Next is very hot quickly and is extremely easy to use, with a single button that automatically adapts to the kind of capsule you're using. It utilizes patented Nespresso capsules with a barcode on them that informs the machine of what kind of coffee or espresso it is, ensuring that you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly while brewing, resulting in an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, also known as crema, that is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's louder than other pod machines and you can't reuse the 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 return them to you to recycle.
The machine is pricey when it is compared to other pod makers in particular when you consider the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod-coffee fan, the cost is an affordable price to pay for consistent barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for lattes and cappuccinos. It is also available in bundles, which include a few samples of the Nespresso pods and a frother. This will save you money up front.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you place a capsule in and press a button, and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies the norm. It has a completely different system for capsules and locks them inside a portafilter-like handle. This allows the machine to make an espresso that is similar to what you'd find at a cafe, but without the hassle and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules that are made of premium coffee beans of the highest quality. Each capsule has precisely proportions of ground espresso that is brewed in a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction process is completely inside the capsule, meaning that the machine and the coffee do not come into contact, and clean-up is a breeze.
The coffee pod also has a Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. Its unique design, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its slender, round forms and soft-touch buttons are like traditional Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly integrating 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 sometimes prevent the hot water from flowing correctly and stop the machine from functioning. You will need to wait a few moments before preparing a second coffee to let the air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 pod capsule coffee machine TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most sought-after pod coffee machines available on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are the main reasons for buying. Does this tiny machine meet the standards set by its parent company's standards? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee maker, but it does not sacrifice the performance. It makes drinks with the push of a button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it needs to make. It also automatically adjusts the correct amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to ensure an excellent result every time.
It's easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and then select the size of your drink. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks as well as an milk jug that can be used to make cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to warm and automatically shuts off after five minutes to conserve 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 very quick and simple.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive a discount on your first order of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalized offers, recommendations and advice. You can also keep track of the condition of your machine, and see how much it's been used. It is a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, also.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in the coffee market and famous heritage brand, is a global leader. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be run by his descendants and spans the world. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of innovating in the industry, and is known for its premium quality espresso that is made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives that help to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly as possible. They have a particular focus on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their emissions, as well as the use of renewable energies. They also have worked to promote regenerative farming, and have a strong focus on enhancing 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 created a "university" of coffee to train professionals and consumers alike on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain the B-Corp designation, which is an international designation that recognizes businesses that are committed to ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. 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 over the past seven years. The company has been committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit both the environment and people, and they have an unshakeable belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to take action.