One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often criticized for producing watery, weak drinks. The top ones are more than just that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods in place of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also comes with a variety of capsule options and easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the best features of the models we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds and one-serve side that will accept any kind of K-Cup, Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock and an "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also has a built-in, foldaway frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup, the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup or ground coffee (a separate water tank is also included). It uses Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and analyzes the barcodes of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's faster than a leading Keurig model at brewing a full pot using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start, brew strength controls and auto shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two operating modes, and 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 heavy for counter space, however it's an excellent option for those who desire the convenience of pods or the versatility of coffee ground.
This budget-friendly cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It can create 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother, and a coffee filter that is reusable. It also has a large water reservoir and a glass carafe for hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the pod coffee machine trend and want to upgrade from your current Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent alternative. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, efficient and can make five different drinks in one sleek, compact chassis. It's also on sale now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is easy to use, using an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type capsule you are using. It uses patent-pending Nespresso pods with an identifier barcode that tells the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and water pressure for every drink. The pods also spin rapidly during brewing, creating an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema, which is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's a little more loud than other pod machines and that you can't reuse used capsules. Fortunately, the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable and you can drop them off at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free and they'll return them to reuse.
The machine is also quite expensive in comparison to other pod coffee machines, especially when you consider the cost of purchasing the pods. If you're already a pod coffee lover, it's a small amount to pay for consistent barista style results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for lattes or cappuccinos. It's also offered in bundles that include a few samples of Nespresso capsules as well as milk frothers that can save you money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines follow a similar format - capsules are placed in the top, you press a button and the coffee is poured out. However, every now and then a machine comes along that is a complete blow to the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a different system for capsules, locking them into place in a portafilter-like hand. The machine can make espresso that is similar to the kind you get at cafes, without the mess and fuss of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE pods which are made of premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule contains precisely proportions of espresso best coffee pod machine ground that is brewed using two stages. This results in a thick crema. The extraction takes place entirely inside the capsule, meaning that the coffee and machine never meet and cleanup is a breeze.
The coffee pod comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky drinks like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. Its unique design, created by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can sometimes prevent the steam from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue working. If this happens, you'll have to wait a couple of minutes before preparing another coffee to allow the air to let go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most sought-after coffee machines on the market. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing and ease of operation are all major reasons to buy. But does this little machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is one of the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't sacrifice on 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 needs to make. It also sets the correct amount for water and froth in each drink by using Intellibrew Technology to achieve an excellent outcome every time.
It's very easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC and select the size of your drink. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks and a milk jug for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes just three seconds to warm up, and has auto-shut-off after five minutes, to save energy.
The descaler has been designed to fit on the side of the machine. This is a separate process however it's fast and easy.
As an added benefit, if register your Vivy with Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive a discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalized offers, suggestions and tips. You'll also be able to monitor the health of your machine and see how much water it's been using. It's worth registering your machine as soon as you buy it, as well.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a market leader in the coffee market and famous heritage brand, is a world leader. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It is a global company. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is renowned for its high-quality espresso crafted from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has implemented a number initiatives to preserve the environment. They also ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly as they can. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and also utilizing renewable energy sources. They have also promoted regenerative farming and are focused on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment towards sustainability is matched by their commitment to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created a "university" of coffee to educate both consumers and professionals on how to make the best 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 that they have a purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was named one of the top 10 World's ethical companies over the last seven years. The company has been committed to proving that sustainable quality can benefit both the environment and people, and they have an unshakeable belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to play their part.