One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticised for making watery, weak drinks. However, the top pods can offer much more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the dreaded K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It has a variety of capsules, and it is easy to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the most impressive features of the models we have tested. It comes with a 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 as well as a "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also has a foldaway, built-in 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 cups (a separate reservoir for water is included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system and analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust machine settings for an ideal cup every time. It's faster than a leading Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like 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 are easily removable for cleaning, and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. It's quite bulky and heavy for counter space however it's a great option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods or the versatility of ground coffee.
This simple cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth and flavorful cup. It can make 12 cups at once and features a programmable timer and a milk frother that is integrated, and an coffee filter that is reusable. It also has a huge reservoir for water and a glass carafe for hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great choice to consider if you're already a fan of the pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's new espresso machine is stylish, quick and has the ability to create five different drinks from one sleek, compact machine. It's on sale now, making it an excellent choice for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine is then able to heat up quickly and is easy to use, with a button that adapts automatically to the type capsule you are using. It utilizes the patented Nespresso capsules which have an identifier on them which tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring that you get the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods also spin fast while brewing, resulting in an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawback is that it's more loud than other pod-machines and you aren't able to reuse the 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 expensive when compared to other pod machines particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod-coffee lover, it's an affordable price to be paid for consistently barista style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make lattes or cappuccinos. You can also buy it in bundles, which contain some samples of Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you simply insert a capsule, press a button and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies read more the norm. It uses a unique system for capsules that bind them into a portafilter handle. The machine can produce espresso that is comparable to the kind you get at a cafe, but without the mess and hassle of a traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible only with Illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed in a two-stage process. 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 a breeze.
This coffee pod machine includes a Pannarello Steam Wand to make milky drinks like cappuccino or latte Macchiato. Its unique design, designed by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its round but slender forms and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can block the flow of the hot water, which can prevent the machine from working effectively. You'll need to wait a few moments before preparing another cup of coffee in order to let the excess air go.
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 compact dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are among the major selling points. But can this machine meet the high standards set by its parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It can make drinks with just a single press of a button. It scans an image of a barcode on the DisC to determine the type of drink to make. It also automatically determines the right amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to produce an excellent result every time.
It's easy to use. Simply insert the desired T DISC, and then select the size of your drink. There are 40 different 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 shuts off automatically after five minutes.
The descaler is designed to slot into the side of the machine. This is a separate process however it's very quick and easy.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you'll receive a discount for your first T-DISCs order, along with specific offers, tips and advice. You'll also be able to keep track of the condition of your machine and see the amount of water it has used. Registering your machine is a good idea immediately after you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a well-known brand with a long history and is a leader in the coffee industry. 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 company has a long tradition of embracing new technologies within the field, and is renowned for its top 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 protect the environment. They also ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly as they can. They have a particular focus on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energies. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.
illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to help their employees succeed. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created an "university" of coffee that educates professionals and consumers alike on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to be awarded B-Corp certification. This is an international label that recognizes businesses that are committed to ethics and a sense of 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 past seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating that sustainable quality can benefit both the environment and people and has a strong belief that it is up to everyone to take action.