One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticized for producing weak, watery drinks. The best pods are more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also comes with a variety of capsule options as well as easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This single-serve drip coffee maker has the most impressive features of the models we tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe that brews traditional grounds, and a single-serve side that accepts any type of K-Cup, Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe side has an adjustable timer as well as a "strong" setting that provides more flavor than the standard settings. It has a fold-away frother that is integrated into the carafe to serve cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces per hour with any size of K-Cup, reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup or ground coffee (a separate water tank is 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 when it comes to making a full pot of coffee thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like a 24 hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two different operating modes, and clean-up is relatively painless. The reusable pod adapter and needles are easily removed to clean, and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. The device is heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for those who prefer the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget pick that produces a smooth and flavorful cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer and a milk frother that is integrated and a reusable coffee filter. It has a large tank of water and a glass carafe that can hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option to consider if you're already a fan of pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is stylish, fast and can create five different drinks on one compact chassis. It's also on sale now making it an excellent option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is extremely simple to use by pressing a single button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It utilizes the patented Nespresso capsules that have an identifier on them that informs the machine of what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring that you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods spin quickly during brewing, creating an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's a bit more loud than other pod machines, and that you aren't able to 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 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. However, if you're already bought in to the benefits of pod coffee, it's only a small price to pay for consistent, barista-style results. Additionally, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules as well as milk frother that can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is time to brew, the majority of pod machines adhere to the same pattern - capsules are placed on the top, you press a button and the coffee is poured out. However, every now and then there is a machine that blows convention out of the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a different system for capsules, locking them into place in a portafilter-like handle. The machine produces espresso that is similar to what you would get in a cafe, but without the mess and hassle of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods that are made from premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule has a precise amount of ground espresso that is brewed using a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are not in contact. Cleaning up is a breeze.
The coffee pod is equipped with a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky drinks like cappuccino or latte Macchiato. Its unique design, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
The only drawback to this machine is that it requires some extra attention than some other models, particularly when you use the steam wand. This is because excessive air can block the steam from flowing properly and stop the machine from working. If this happens, you'll need to wait a few 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 popular coffee machines on the market. Its small dimensions, attractive price tag and ease of use are the main reasons for buying. Does this little machine meet the standards set by its parent company's? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, however it doesn't sacrifice the performance. It makes drinks at the touch of a single button, analyzing a personalised barcode on each T DISC to know what drink it should make. It also automatically adjusts the correct amount of froth and water for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
It's easy to use - simply insert the desired T disc and choose the size of your drink. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks as well as a milk jug to make cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes to save energy.
It's easy to clean thanks to 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.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you will get a discount on your first T-DISCs order, along with specific offers, tips and suggestions. You'll also be able monitor the health of your machine and see how much water it has used. It is a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, also.
5. Illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a market leader in the world of coffee and an iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. It was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still managed by his descendants and spans across the world. The family-owned and operated company has a long history of embracing new technologies 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 implemented a number initiatives to help to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as green as they can. They have focused their efforts on efficiency in their coffee machines with pods energy use and are committed to reducing their emissions, as well as the use of renewable energy sources. They also promote regenerative farming and are focused on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, illycaffe is committed to helping their employees succeed. They have invested in programs that offer training and professional development for their staff and have developed an "university of coffee" that helps to educate consumers and professionals about how to enjoy the most optimal cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain a B-Corp certification, which is an international label which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense of 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 for the last seven year. The company is committed to demonstrating that sustainable quality can be beneficial to the environment and for people as well and has the conviction that it is up to everyone to do their part.