One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often accused of producing weak, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best pods can provide more than that.
The illy-Bruvi is made of B-Pods made from treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It comes with a range of capsules and is easy to customise.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker offers the best features of the models we've tested. It comes with an insulated 12-cup carafe that makes grounds in the traditional way and one-serve that will accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock and it has a "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also comes with a built-in, foldaway frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup or reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and analyzes the barcodes of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model when it comes to brewing a full pot using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles and mesh filter are easily removed for cleaning. The device is heavy and heavy for counter space, however it's a great choice for those who prefer the convenience of pods or the versatility of coffee ground.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget pick that produces an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It comes with a timer that can be programmed, a built-in milk frother and a filter that can be reused, and can make 12 cups of java at a time. It also has a huge reservoir of water and a glass carafe to serve hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already committed to the pod coffee machine trend and want to upgrade from your current Keurig-style machine This is a great option. Nespresso’s newest espresso maker is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks on one compact chassis. It's currently on sale and is a great option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine Next can be heated up quickly and is extremely easy to use with a single-use button that automatically adapts to the type of capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso capsules that have a barcode on them that informs the machine of what kind of coffee or espresso it is, ensuring you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly 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 louder than other pod machines, and that you aren't able to reuse the used 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 recycle.
The machine is pricey when it is compared to other pod makers particularly when you add the cost of the pods. However, if you're already bought in to the benefits of pod coffee, it's a low cost to get consistent results that resemble baristas. Plus, you can add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. You can also purchase it in bundles, which include some of the Nespresso pods as well as a frother. This will save you money up front.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines follow the same pattern - capsules are placed in the top and 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 unique system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. This lets the machine create an espresso that's like you would get in a cafe, but without the hassle and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules that are made of premium high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule is stocked with precisely proportions of ground espresso, which is brewed in two stages. This produces a rich crema. The extraction takes place entirely inside the capsule, so the coffee and machine never meet, and clean-up is easy.
This machine also comes with an Pannarello steam wand that can be used to make milky drinks like cappuccino and latte macchiato. The unique design of this machine, designed by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold statement in your home. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are inspired by classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly mixing modern technology.
One drawback of this machine is that it requires some more attention than other models, particularly when you are using the steam wand. The reason for this is that the excess air can stop the flow of hot water, preventing the machine from working efficiently. If this happens, you'll have to wait a couple of minutes before making another coffee to allow the air to be released.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most popular pod coffee machines available on the market. Its small dimensions, attractive price and user-friendly interface are all big selling points. Does this machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is one of the simplest pod coffee machines on the market, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It can make drinks with a simple press of a button. It scans the barcode on the DisC to determine the type of drink to make. It also automatically sets the correct amount of froth and water for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
It's very easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC and then select the size of your drink. There are 40 drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk container for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
It's easy to clean, too, with a cleverly designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is quick and simple.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy with Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive discounts on your first order of T DISCs. Additionally, you'll receive personalized offers, recommendations and tips. You can also monitor the condition of your machine, and find out how much it's been used. Registering your machine is also an excellent idea as soon as you purchase it.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand that is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is renowned for its top-quality espresso that is made using nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has taken a variety of initiatives to to protect the environment. They also ensure that their products are as eco-friendly as possible. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and utilizing renewable energy sources. They have also been working to promote regenerative agriculture and have a strong focus 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 have developed an "university of coffee" that assists in educating capsule coffee machines both professionals and consumers on how to get the best cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to earn a B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies that place a high value on ethics and a purpose. The company has also launched 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 is dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a responsibility to play.