One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their watery, under-strength drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods made from treated polypropylene cups that are designed to break down in landfill (rather than the notorious K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It comes with a range of capsule options and is simple to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This single-serve drip coffee maker has the most impressive features of the models we tested. It comes with an insulated 12-cup carafe that makes grounds in the traditional way and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe's side features an adjustable timer as well as an "strong" setting that provides more flavor than the normal settings. It comes with an adjustable frother that folds away and is integrated into the carafe to serve capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at once using any size K-Cup or reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate reservoir for water is included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings to make a perfect cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than the Keurig that is the most popular. It also comes with advanced features, like a 24 hour start time, brew intensity control and automatic shutoff.
The device is easy to use despite the fact it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The reusable pod adapter and needles can be removed to clean, and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space however it's a great option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This affordable cold brew maker creates a smooth, delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother as well as a reusable coffee filter. It also has a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe to serve hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already committed to the pod coffee machine trend and would like to upgrade your current Keurig-style machine this is a great option. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, efficient and can make five different drinks in one compact chassis. It's available for sale right now and is a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is extremely simple to use, with a single button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It makes use of patented Nespresso pods that have barcodes that inform the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the correct temperature and pressure for every drink. The pods spin rapidly while brewing to create an emulsion known as crema that is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine are that it's a little louder than other pod machines and that you can't reuse capsules you've used. Fortunately, the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable, so you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free and they'll return them to recycle.
The machine is expensive when it is compared to other pod makers, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If, however, you've already bought in to the advantages of pod coffee, it's only a small cost to pay for consistent, barista-style results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for cappuccinos or lattes. You can also buy it in bundles, which include some samples of Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will save you money up front.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines use a similar brewing process - you place a capsule in and press a button, and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy convention. It uses a unique system for capsules that bind them into the portafilter handle. This lets the machine make an espresso that is like you would get at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule contains a precise amount of ground espresso, which is brewed using two stages. This results in a thick crema. The extraction is done entirely within the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are never in contact. Clean-up is also an easy task.
The coffee pod includes a Pannarello Steam Wand to make milky drinks like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. Its unique design, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its slim, round shapes and soft-touch buttons are inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly mixing modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes stop the flow of hot water, which can prevent the machine from working effectively. If this happens, you'll have to wait a few minutes before making another cup of coffee to allow the excess air to escape.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee machines on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are among the major selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set by its parent company's? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is one of the most simple pod coffee machines available however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It can make drinks with just a single press of a button. It reads the barcode on the DISC to determine what drink to prepare. It also automatically determines the right amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to ensure an outstanding result every time.
This makes it very easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC and choose the desired drink size. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks, as well as an milk jug that can be used to make cappuccinos or lattes. It only takes three seconds to heat up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
It's easy to clean, too, with a cleverly designed descaler that slots into the side of the machine. There are separate directions for this, but the process is simple and quick.
As an added benefit, if sign up your Vivy with Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive discounts on your first order of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalized offers, suggestions and tips. You'll also be in a position to track the status of your machine and see how much water it's used. It is a good idea to register your machine at the time you purchase it, too.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe, a leader in the coffee market and iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be run by his descendants and is spread across the world. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is famous for its premium espresso made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally sustainable as they can be. They have a particular focus on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, as well as the use of renewable energy sources. They also promote the practice of regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, illycaffe is committed to helping their employees succeed. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their staff, and they have also created an "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals alike on how to get the most optimal cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company pod-making machines to earn a B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies who prioritize ethics and a sense of purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible Pods and been named one of the World's Most ethical companies over the last seven year. The company has been dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well and has a strong belief that it is up to everyone to play their part.