One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have a bit of an undeserved reputation for their watery, under-strength drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of 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 also has bundles of capsule options and easy customization.
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 best combination of features that we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that can accept any type of K-Cup Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe has a programmable clock and a "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It also comes with an adjustable frother that folds away and is integrated into the carafe to serve lattes and capspuccinos.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces at a single time with any size of K-Cup, the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup, or ground coffee (a separate water tank is also included). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust machine's settings to make an ideal cup every time. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start, brew strength control and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The reusable pod adapter and needles are easily removable for cleaning and the filter can be washed in your sink. The machine is heavy and bulky for counter space but it's a great option for those who desire the convenience of pods or the versatility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that provides smooth and delicious cups. It can make 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer and a milk frother that is integrated, and an coffee filter that can be reused. It has a large tank of water as well as glass carafes to hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option for those who are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso’s newest espresso maker is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks on one chassis. It's currently on sale which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is incredibly easy to use, with a single button that automatically adapts to the type of capsule you're using. It makes use of patented Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine which kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly when brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, referred to as crema, that is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's louder than other pod machines and that you cannot reuse capsules. 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 you to recycle.
The machine is also quite expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you factor in the cost of buying pods. If, however, you've already a believer in the benefits of pod coffee, it's only a small cost to pay for consistently good barista-like results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for cappuccinos and lattes. You can also buy it in bundles, which contain some of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will save you money up front.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines use the same format: capsules are placed on the top and then you press a button, and the coffee oozes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies convention. It has a unique system for capsules that lock them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to make an espresso that is similar to what you'd find in 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 a precise dose of espresso that is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to create a rich crema. The extraction takes place entirely inside the capsule, which means that the machine and the coffee do not meet, and clean-up is easy.
The coffee pod also comes with an Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks such as cappuccino and macchiato latte. The unique design of this coffee machine, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your home. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly mixing modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is because excess air can hinder the flow of hot water, which can prevent the machine from functioning effectively. If this happens, you'll have to wait a couple of minutes before making another cup of coffee to allow the air to be released.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee machines on the market. The small size, attractive pricing, and user-friendly are important selling points. But does this little machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it does not sacrifice the performance. It makes drinks at the push of a button, analyzing a personalised barcode on each capsule coffee makers T DISC to know what drink it should make. It also sets the proper amount of water and froth in each drink by using Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
This makes it easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC and choose the size you prefer for your drink. There are 40 different drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes just three seconds to heat and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
The descaler is designed to fit into the side of your machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is easy and quick.
If you register your Vivy, you will receive a discount for your first T-DISCs order, and also specific offers, tips and recommendations. You'll also be in a position to track the status of your machine, and also see the amount of water it has used. It's a good idea to register your machine as soon as you buy it, too.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a market leader in the coffee industry and an famous heritage brand, is a global leader. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It has a presence across the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing innovation within the industry. It is renowned for its high quality espresso that is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally green as they can. They have focused on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint as well as the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted regenerative farming and are focused on enhancing their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created a "university" of coffee to train consumers and professionals alike on how to make the best cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to earn a B-Corp certification, which is an international certification which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense of purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible Pods and been named as one of the top 10 World's ethical companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating that sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well They have a strong belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to take action.