One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their low-strength, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the dreaded K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It offers a variety of capsules and is simple to customise.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the top pod coffee makers on the market, this combination drip and single-serve model offers the most comprehensive set of features we tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe that brews grounds in the traditional way and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock as well as an "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also comes with a foldaway, built-in frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup and reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine settings for a perfect cup every time. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model in making a full-sized pot of brew with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start, brew strength controls and auto 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 mesh filter is washable in your sink. The unit is a bit heavy and bulky for counter space but it's an excellent option for those who desire the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This affordable cold brew maker makes a smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at once and features a programmable timer, an integrated milk frother, and a reusable coffee filter. It has a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great choice for those who are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. 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 which makes it a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is simple to use, using an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso capsules that have a barcode on them which tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring that you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin fast while brewing, resulting in an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine is that it's a bit louder than other pod machines, and that you aren't able to reuse the capsules you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or Nespresso's website.
The machine is also pretty expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you consider the cost of purchasing the pods. If you're already a coffee pod fan, this is a small amount to be paid for consistently barista-like results. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make lattes or cappuccinos. You can also buy it in bundles, which include a few samples of the Nespresso pods as well as a frother. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have a similar brewing process - you simply insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee is brewed. But every now and then, a device comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a unique system for capsules that lock them into the portafilter handle. This lets the machine produce an espresso 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 only with illy MIE pods, which are made of premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule is stocked with a precise dose of ground espresso, which is then brewed with a specific two-stage process to produce an intense crema. The extraction is performed entirely within the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are never in contact. Clean-up is also an easy task.
This coffee maker includes 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 be a standout in your kitchen. Its slim, round shapes and soft-touch buttons are inspired by traditional Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is because excess air can block the flow of the hot water, preventing the machine from working efficiently. If this happens, you'll have to wait 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 sought-after coffee machines on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and user-friendly interface are the main reasons for buying. But can this tiny machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee maker, but it isn't sacrificing the performance. It can create drinks with a simple press of a button. It scans a barcode on the T DisC to determine the type of drink to make. It also determines the right amount for water and froth in every drink by using Intellibrew Technology to produce an excellent outcome every time.
It's easy to use - just insert the desired T disc and choose the size of your drink. There are 40 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 has auto-shut-off after five minutes, to save energy.
The descaler has been designed to fit on the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the procedure is easy and quick.
If you register your Vivy, you will receive a discount for your first T-DISCs order, as well as specific offers, tips and suggestions. You can also keep track of the condition of your machine, and find out how much it has been used. It's a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, as well.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a renowned brand with a coffee machines capsules long history and is a leader in the coffee industry. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still operated by his children and spans the world. The family-owned and operated business has a long tradition of embracing new technologies within the field, and is known for its premium quality espresso made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives that help safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and utilizing renewable energies. They have also been working to promote regenerative farming, and have a strong focus on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their commitment to help their employees achieve. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees and they have created an "university of coffee" which helps educate consumers and professionals on how to get the best cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned an B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies who prioritize ethics and a purpose. The company also recently introduced their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and has been named one of the World's most ethical companies over the past seven years. The company is dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a part to play.