One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often criticized for producing weak, watery drinks. The top ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsule options and is simple to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the most impressive features of all the models we have tested. It has an insulated 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional way, and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock as well as an "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It also comes with a foldaway, built-in frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces per hour with any size of K-Cup, reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup or ground coffee (a separate water tank is included). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust machine settings. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model in making a full-sized pot of brew using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two different operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles, and mesh filter are easily removed to clean. The unit is a bit heavy and bulky for counter space but it's an excellent option for those who prefer the convenience of pods, or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that produces smooth and delicious cups. It has a programmable timer, a built-in milk frother and a reusable filter and can make 12 cups of java at once. It also has a huge reservoir of water and a glass carafe to serve hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already bought in to the pod coffee machine trend and would like to upgrade your current Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent option. Nespresso’s newest espresso maker is sleek, fast, and can make five different drinks with one compact chassis. It's even on sale right now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is extremely easy to use, with a single button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It makes use of the patented Nespresso pods that have barcodes that inform the machine which kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures that 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 typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine are that it's a bit louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse capsules that you've used. Fortunately, the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable and you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for no cost and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is pricey when it is compared to other pod makers, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod coffee fan, the cost is a small price to pay for consistently barista-like results. Plus, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for lattes and cappuccinos. It is also available in bundles, which include some of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have a similar brewing process - you insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee pours out. However, every now and then a device comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that bind them into a portafilter handle. The machine can produce espresso that is similar to the kind you get at a cafe, but without the hassle and mess of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules that are made of premium, high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule has a precise dose of espresso ground, which is then brewed using a special two-stage process to create a rich crema. The extraction is done entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are not in contact. Cleaning up is an easy task.
This coffee pod machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks like cappuccino and latte macchiato. The unique design of this coffee machine, created by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold statement in your home. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 60s, while seamlessly integrating advanced technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can block the hot water from flowing properly, preventing the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll need to wait for a few minutes before making another coffee to allow the excess air to let go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy coffee machine for pods is one of the most popular pod coffee machines on the market. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing and ease of operation are all major selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set forth by its parent company's standards? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, however it isn't sacrificing performance. It can make drinks with the press of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it needs to make. It also automatically determines the proper amount of water and froth for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to produce 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 jug that can be used for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to warm up and automatically shuts off after five minutes to save energy.
The descaler has been designed to fit on 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 and Bosch, you'll receive discounts on your first order of T DISCs and receive personalized offers, recommendations and advice. You'll also be able to keep track of the condition of your machine and know how much water it has used. It is recommended as soon as you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe, a leader in the coffee market and iconic heritage brand, is a global leader. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still managed by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing innovation in the industry, and is renowned for its high quality espresso that is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has implemented a number initiatives to help preserve the environment. They also ensure that their products are as eco-friendly as is possible. They have focused on energy efficiency, 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.
Illycaffe's commitment towards sustainability is matched by their commitment to help their employees succeed. They have invested in training programs for their employees, and have created a "university" of coffee that educates professionals and consumers alike on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to earn the B-Corp designation, which is an international label which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense that they have a purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was named as one of the World's Most ethical companies for the last seven year. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a part to play.