One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often criticized for producing watery, weak drinks. However, the top pods are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods, which are made of treated polypropylene cups which are designed to degrade in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also comes with a variety of capsule options as well as easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers available on the market, this combination single-serve and drip models offer the best blend of features in our test. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds and a single-serve side that can accept any type of K-Cup Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock and it has a "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It also has a built-in, foldaway frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup or the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust machine settings for an ideal cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than a leading Keurig. It also has advanced features such as a 24-hour start, brew intensity control, and automatic shutoff.
It's easy to use, despite having two operating modes, and cleaning is pretty easy. The reusable pod adapter and needles are easily removable for cleaning and the mesh filter is washable in the sink. It's a bit bulky and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This low-cost cold brew machine creates a smooth, delicious cup. It has a programmable timer, a built-in milk frother and a reusable filter and can make 12 cups of java in one go. It comes with a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe to hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the trend of pod coffee machines and would like to upgrade your current Keurig-style machine This is a great option. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is sleek, efficient, and can make five different drinks with one compact chassis. It's available for sale right now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is easy to use, using an automatic button that adjusts to the type capsule you are using. It uses the patented Nespresso pods that have barcodes that inform the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures that you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly when they are brewing to create an emulsion known as crema. It is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod machines and that you cannot reuse capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle them at your local UPS store or Nespresso's website.
The machine is costly when compared to other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod coffee fan, this is a small price to pay for consistent barista-like results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for cappuccinos or lattes. You can also purchase it in bundles that include some samples of Nespresso pods as well as a frother. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is time to brew, the majority of pod machines follow a similar format - a capsule goes in the top, you press a button and coffee flows out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that eschew the norm. It has a unique system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. This lets the machine produce an espresso like you would get at a cafe, but without the hassle and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE capsules which are made from premium coffee beans of the highest quality. Each capsule is stocked with a precise dose of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to create a rich crema. The extraction is done entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and the coffee are not in contact. Clean-up is also easy.
The coffee pod comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand to make milky beverages like cappuccino or macchiato latte. Its unique design, designed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can prevent the steam from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue functioning. You'll need to wait for several minutes before making another cup of coffee in order to let the air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most sought-after coffee machines available. Its small dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are all big selling points. But can this tiny machine live up to the high standards set by the parent company? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, however it does not sacrifice the performance. It makes drinks with the touch of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to create. It also automatically sets the correct amount of water and froth for each drink, using Intellibrew technology to produce an outstanding result every time.
It is very simple to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and 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 just three seconds to warm up and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
The descaler is cleverly designed to fit into the side of the machine. This is a different process, but it's quick and simple.
As a bonus, if you register your Vivy through Bosch, you'll get discounts on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalised offers, recommendations and tips. You'll also be able to track the status of your machine and know how much water it has been using. It is a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, also.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in coffee capsule machine the coffee market and iconic heritage brand, is a global leader. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be managed by his descendants and is spread across the globe. The family-owned business has a history of innovation and is famous for its premium espresso made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number initiatives to to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-friendly as is possible. They have focused their efforts on efficiency in energy use, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint and also the use of renewable energies. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, illycaffe is also determined to help their employees succeed. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees and they have developed an "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals on how to get the best possible cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to be awarded a B-Corp certification, which is an international label which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. The company also recently introduced their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and has been named one of the world's Most Ethical Companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a part to play.