One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for low-strength, watery drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods, which are made of treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the dreaded K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also has bundles of capsule options as well as easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This coffee maker that is a combination of drip and single-serve has the most impressive features of all the models we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional manner and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock and an "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also comes with a built-in, foldaway frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup, reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is also included). 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. It's faster than a leading Keurig model in making a full-sized pot of brew with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start, brew strength controls, and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use, despite having two operating modes, and cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles and mesh filter can be easily removed to clean. The unit is a bit heavy and heavy 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 great value option that provides smooth and delicious cups. It can make 12 cups at a time and comes with a programmable clock and a milk frother that is integrated as well as a reusable coffee filter. It also comes with a large water reservoir and a glass carafe to serve hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option for those who are already a fan of the pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is sleek, fast, and can make five different drinks with one compact chassis. It's also on sale now making it an excellent option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine Next can be heated up quickly and is incredibly easy to use, with a single button that automatically adjusts to the kind of capsule you're using. It uses the patented Nespresso pods with an identifier barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee 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 the foam, also called crema, which is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine is that it's louder than other pod machines and that you can't reuse the capsules that you've used. Fortunately the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable so you can drop them off at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for no cost and they'll return them to recycle.
The machine is expensive when contrasted with other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod coffee fan, the cost is an affordable price to pay for consistent barista-like results. Additionally, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for cappuccinos and lattes. You can also purchase it in bundles, which include some of the Nespresso pods and a frother. This will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines use the same brewing process: you place a capsule in, press a button and the coffee comes out. But now and then a machine comes along that is a complete blow to the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that locks them into a portafilter handle. The machine pod making machines can produce espresso that is as good as the kind you get at a cafe, but without the mess and hassle of a traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed using two stages. This produces a rich crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are never in contact. Clean-up is also easy.
This coffee pod machine includes a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky drinks like cappuccino or latte Macchiato. Its unique design, designed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 60s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes hinder the flow of hot water, which can prevent the machine from working properly. If this happens, you'll need to wait a couple of minutes before making another cup of coffee to allow the excess air to be released.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most sought-after coffee machines on the market. Its small dimensions, attractive price tag and user-friendly interface are all big selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set forth by its parent company's standards? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it does not sacrifice performance. It makes drinks at the press of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to create. It also determines the right amount of water and froth in every drink using Intellibrew Technology to achieve an excellent outcome every time.
This makes it extremely simple to use - just insert the desired T DISC and choose your preferred drink size. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks, as well as an milk jug that can be used to make 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, with a cleverly designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. This is a separate process, but it's quick and easy.
If you sign up your Vivy, you will get a discount on your first T-DISCs order, and also specific offers, tips and advice. You'll also be in a position to keep track of the condition of your machine and know how much water it has been using. It is a good idea when you purchase it.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand that is a an industry leader in the field of coffee. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be operated by his children and spans the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is famous 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 variety of initiatives to safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have focused their efforts on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and the use of renewable energies. They have also promoted regenerative farming and are focused on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, Illycaffe is committed to helping their employees achieve. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created an "university" of coffee that educates consumers and professionals alike on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain B-Corp certification. This is an international designation that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named one of the top 10 World's ethical companies over the last seven years. The company has been dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people alike and has the conviction that it is the responsibility of everyone to do their part.