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. Fortunately, the best pods can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsules, and it is easy to personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers available on the market, this combination single-serve and drip model has the most comprehensive set of features in our test. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds, and one-serve side that will accept any type of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock as well as it has a "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also comes with an integrated, fold-away frother to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at once using any size K-Cup or the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate water reservoir is included). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's faster at brewing full pots than the Keurig that is the most popular. It also has advanced features such as a 24-hour start, brew intensity controls and an automatic shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two different operating modes, and cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles can be removed for cleaning, and the filter can be washed in the sink. It's a bit bulky and heavy for counter space however it's a great option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This affordable cold brew maker produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It can make 12 cups at once and features a programmable timer and a milk frother that is integrated as well as 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 accustom to the pod coffee machine trend and are looking to upgrade the Keurig-style machine you have, this is an excellent option. Nespresso's new espresso maker is stylish, fast, and can make five different drinks in one small chassis. It's even on sale right now, making it a great option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is easy to use, thanks to a button that adapts automatically to the type of capsule you're using. It uses patented Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine which type of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and water pressure for every drink. The capsules spin quickly during brewing, creating a layer of foam known as crema that is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine are that it's a bit louder than other pod machines and that you can't reuse the used 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 reuse.
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 benefits of pod coffee, it's a low 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. You can also purchase it in bundles, which include a few samples of the Nespresso pods and a frother. This will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have a similar brewing process - you insert a capsule then press a button and the coffee is brewed. But now and then a machine comes along that blows convention out of the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a different system for capsules, locking them into place in a portafilter-like hand. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's as good as you'd get at a cafe, but without all of the fuss and mess that is typical of an espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible only with illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has precisely proportioned amounts of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process that produces an intense crema. The extraction is performed entirely within the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are not in contact. Cleaning up is easy.
The coffee pod comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand to make milky drinks like cappuccino or latte Macchiato. The distinctive design of this coffee machine, created by renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your living space. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
The only drawback to this machine is that it requires a little more attention than some other models, especially when you are using the steam wand. This is because excessive air can sometimes prevent the steam from flowing properly, preventing the machine from working. If this happens, you'll need to wait for a few minutes before preparing 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 machines available. The small dimensions, attractive pricing and user-friendly are important selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set forth by the parent company? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It makes drinks at read more the touch of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC in order to determine coffee machines with capsules which drink it has to create. It also automatically sets the right amount of froth and water for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to achieve the best results every time.
This makes it very easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC, then select the size you prefer for your drink. There are 40 drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk jug for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to heat and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
It's very more info easy to clean using a cleverly-designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. There are separate directions for this, but the process is simple and quick.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive an extra discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalised offers, recommendations and advice. You'll also be able to monitor the health of your machine and know how much water it has been using. Registering your machine is a good idea when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a renowned brand with a long history and is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still managed by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is renowned for its top-quality espresso that is made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco green as they can. They have focused on efficiency in their energy use and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energies. They have also been working to promote regenerative agriculture and have a website strong focus on enhancing their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their determination to help their employees succeed. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created an "university" of coffee to train consumers and professionals alike on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned a B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies that are committed to ethics and a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was named as one of the world's most ethical companies over the last seven years. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone here has a role to play.