One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have a bit of an undeserved reputation for being watery, under-strength drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods made from treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It has a variety of capsules and is easy to personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers available on the market, this drip and single-serve model offers the best combination of features we tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe which makes grounds in the traditional way and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe has a programmable clock as well as it has a "strong setting" that makes 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 per hour using any size K-Cup, reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It uses Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model at brewing a full pot thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
The device is simple to use despite the fact that it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles are easily removed for cleaning and the filter can be washed in your sink. The machine is heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's an excellent option for those who prefer the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew machine is a great value option that delivers an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at once and comes with a programmable clock and a milk frother that is integrated, and an coffee filter that can be reused. It also comes with a large reservoir for water and a glass carafe for hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the trend of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your Keurig-style machine this is a great option. Nespresso's latest espresso machine is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks on one sleek, compact chassis. It's on sale now, making it an excellent option for anyone with a 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 are using. It uses patented Nespresso capsules with an identifier on them which tells the machine what kind of coffee or espresso it is, making sure you have the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly during brewing, creating an emulsion known as crema. It is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine are that it's louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse capsules that you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is also pretty expensive when compared to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you take into account the cost of buying pods. If you're already a pod-coffee fan, the cost is a small amount to pay for consistently barista style results. Plus, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. It's also available as bundles that contain a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frothers, which can save you money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines use the same brewing procedure - you simply insert a capsule then press a button and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy the norm. It has a completely different system for capsules, locking them into place inside a portafilter-like handle. This allows the machine to make an espresso that is like you would get at a cafe, but without the hassle and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with only illy MIE pods, which are made of premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule contains a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed using a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule, so the machine and the coffee do not meet, and clean-up is a breeze.
This machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. Its unique design, designed by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of 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 capsule machine coffee block the flow of the hot water, which prevents the machine from functioning effectively. If this happens, you'll have to wait a few minutes before making another coffee to allow the air to be released.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most well-known pod coffee machines available on the market. The small dimensions, attractive pricing and user-friendly are major reasons to buy. But can this tiny machine live up to the high standards set by the company that owns it? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It can make drinks with a single press of a button. It scans a barcode on the T DISC to determine which drink to make. It also sets the correct amount of water and froth in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce an outstanding result every time.
It's easy to use. Simply insert the desired T DISC, and then select the size of your drink. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks and an milk jug that can be used to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to heat up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
The descaler is designed to fit on the side of the machine. This is a separate process, but it's quick and easy.
As an added benefit, if register your Vivy through Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive an extra discount on your first order of T DISCs and receive personalized offers, recommendations and tips. You can also keep track of the progress of your machine, and find out how much it's been used. It's a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, as well.
5. Illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a market leader in the world of coffee and an famous heritage brand, is a global leader. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It is a global company. The family-owned and operated company has a long tradition of embracing innovation within the field, and is known for its premium quality espresso made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco friendly as possible. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint as well as using renewable energy sources. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, Illycaffe is determined to help their employees thrive. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their employees, and they have also developed a "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals alike on how to get the best possible cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded the B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies who prioritize ethics and a sense of 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 for the last seven years. The company is committed to proving that sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well They have a strong belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to do their part.