One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticized for producing weak, watery drinks. The top ones are more than just that.
The illy-Bruvi is made of B-Pods, which are made of treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the dreaded K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It has a variety of capsules, and it is easy to personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This coffee maker that is a combination of drip and single-serve has the best features of the models we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe which is brewed in the traditional manner and a single-serve that accepts 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 has an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe to make capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup, or a the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate water reservoir is included). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that reads the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine's settings to ensure a perfect cup every time. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model in brewing a full pot with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start, brew strength controls, 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 mesh filter is washable in the sink. The machine is heavy and heavy for counter space, however it's a great option for those who want the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew maker is a budget-friendly option that provides smooth and delicious cups. It can create 12 cups at a time and comes with a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother and a coffee filter that is reusable. It also has a huge reservoir for water and a glass carafe for hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the pod coffee machine trend and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent option. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, fast and has the ability to make five different drinks in one sleek, compact chassis. It's on sale now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine Next is very hot quickly and is extremely simple to use with a single-use button that automatically adapts to the kind of capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso capsules that have a barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, making sure you get the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly during brewing, creating the foam, also known as crema that is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's louder than other pod-machines and you aren't able to reuse capsules. 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 return them to reuse.
The machine is also pretty expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you consider the cost of buying pods. If you're already a pod-coffee fan, this is an affordable price to pay for consistently barista-style results. Additionally, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. It's also available in bundles that include sample packs of the Nespresso capsules as well as milk frother, which can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines follow the same pattern - a capsule goes in the top, you press a button, and the coffee is poured out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies the norm. It has a completely different system for capsules that lock them in place in a portafilter-like hand. This lets the machine make an espresso that is like you would get at a cafe, but without all of the fuss and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible only with Illy MIE pods which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule is stocked with precisely proportions of espresso ground that is brewed using two stages. This results in a thick crema. The extraction pod coffee maker takes place completely inside the capsule, so the coffee and machine never come into contact and cleanup is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky drinks like cappuccino or macchiato latte. Its unique design, designed by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its round, slender forms and soft-touch buttons like the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly merging modern technology.
One drawback of this machine is that it requires some extra focus than other models, especially when you use the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the hot water from flowing correctly, preventing the machine from functioning. It is necessary to wait a few moments before preparing another cup of coffee to let the excess air out.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee machines on the market. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing, and user-friendly are major selling points. But can this tiny machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We went for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is one of the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't compromise on performance. It can create drinks with a simple press of a button. It scans an image of a barcode on the DISC to determine what drink to prepare. It also automatically sets the right amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to achieve an outstanding result every time.
It is very simple to use. Simply 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 for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes just three seconds to heat and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
The descaler has been designed to fit on the side of the machine. This is a separate process, but it's quick and simple.
If you register your Vivy, you'll get a discount on your first order of T-DISCs, as well as specific offers, tips and recommendations. You'll also be able track the status of your machine and see how much water it's used. Registering your machine is also recommended when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand that is a leader in the coffee industry. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still managed by his descendants and spans across the globe. The family-owned and operated company has a long tradition of embracing innovation in the industry, and is renowned for its high 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 safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and also utilizing renewable energies. They have also been working to promote regenerative farming, and have a particular focus on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their determination to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees, and have created an "university" of coffee that educates both consumers and professionals on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to be awarded B-Corp certification. This is an international designation that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense of purpose. The company also recently introduced their first line of Nespresso compatible pods. They have also been named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the last seven years. The company has been committed to proving that sustainable quality can make a difference for the environment and people alike and has a strong belief that it is up to everyone to do their part.