One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for low-strength, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best ones can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also has bundles of capsule options and easy customisation.
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 blend of features in our test. It has a 12-cup carafe which makes grounds in the traditional manner and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock as well as a "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also comes with an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe to make lattes and capspuccinos.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces at a time with any size of K-Cup, reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is also included). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's faster than a leading Keurig model in making a full-sized pot of brew using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start, brew strength controls and auto shutoff.
The device is simple to use despite the fact it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles, and mesh filter can be removed to clean. The device is heavy and heavy for counter space, however it's an excellent option for those who desire the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew maker is a budget-friendly option that produces a smooth and flavorful cup. It comes with a timer that can be programmed, a built-in milk frother and a reusable filter, and can make 12 cups of java at once. It also has a large reservoir for water and a glass carafe for hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great choice for those who are already a fan of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is sleek, efficient, and can make five different drinks in one compact chassis. It's also on sale now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is simple to use, thanks to an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you are using. It uses patented Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and water pressure for every drink. The capsules spin quickly during brewing, creating the foam, also known as crema. It is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's a little more loud than other pod machines and that you can't reuse the capsules 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 free, and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is costly when it is compared to other pod makers particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If you've already a believer in the advantages of pod coffee, it's only a small cost to get consistently good barista-like results. Additionally, you can add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. It's also available as bundles that include sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frothers, which can save you money in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines follow a similar format - a capsule goes in the top and then you press a button, and coffee flows out. But now and then a machine comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. The machine can produce espresso that is comparable to what you would get in cafes, without the hassle and mess of an espresso machine that is traditional.
The X7.1 is compatible only with illy MIE pods that are made from premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule is stocked with an exact amount 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, so the machine and coffee never meet, and clean-up is a breeze.
This machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand that can be used to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. The distinctive design of this coffee pod machine, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your home. Its round, slender forms and soft-touch buttons are like traditional Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly mixing modern technology.
One downside of this machine is that it needs some more focus than other models, especially when you are using the steam wand. This is because excessive air can block the hot water from flowing properly, preventing the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll need to wait a few minutes before making another 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 popular coffee machines available. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are among the major selling points. But can this machine live up to the high standards set by the parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it doesn't sacrifice its performance. It can make drinks with a simple press of a button. It reads the barcode on the DisC to determine the type of drink to prepare. 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 is very simple to use - just insert the desired T DISC and select the size of your drink. There are 40 coffee machine capsule drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to heat up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean too, with a cleverly designed descaler that slides into the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is quick and simple.
If you register your Vivy, you will receive a discount for your first order of T-DISCs, along with personalized offers, tips and recommendations. You can also keep track of the status of your machine and find out how much it has used. Registering your machine is also a good idea as soon as you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a market leader in the coffee industry and an iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still run by his descendants and spans across the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing innovation within the industry. It is renowned for its high quality espresso that is made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability and has taken a variety of initiatives to preserve the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-friendly as they can. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint as well as using renewable energy sources. They also have worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and have a particular focus on enhancing their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment towards sustainability is matched by their determination to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created an "university" of coffee to educate both consumers and professionals on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded the B Corp certification. This certification is given to international 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 World's Most ethical companies over the last seven year. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a role to take on.