One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for the watery, weak drinks. The best ones are much more than just that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods made from treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the dreaded K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It offers a variety of capsules and is simple to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This coffee maker that is a combination of drip and single-serve has the best features of all the models we tested. It has a 12-cup carafe which brews grounds in the traditional way, and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe has a programmable clock and it has a "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It has an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup or reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate water reservoir is included). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust machine's settings to ensure an ideal cup every time. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model when it comes to making a full-sized pot of brew using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like a 24 hour brew start time, brew strength control and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two different modes of operation, and cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles, and mesh filter can be easily removed to clean. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space however it's a great option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This simple cold brew maker is a great value option that delivers a smooth and flavorful cup. It can create 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother as well as a coffee filter that is reusable. It has a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe that can hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option for those who are already a fan of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, fast and has the ability to create five different drinks from one sleek, compact machine. It's on sale now, making it an excellent option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine is then able to heat up quickly and is simple to use, with a button that adapts automatically to the type capsule you are using. It makes use of the patented Nespresso pods that have an identifier barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the correct temperature and pressure for every drink. The capsules spin fast while brewing to create a layer of foam called crema, which is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawback is that it's louder than other pod machines and you aren't able to reuse the capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is also expensive when compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you factor in the cost of buying pods. If you've already convinced of the advantages of pod coffee, it's a low price to pay for consistent results that resemble baristas. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. It is also available in bundles that include some of the Nespresso pods and a frother. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is about brewing, most pod machines use the same format: a capsule goes in the top and then you press a button and coffee flows out. But 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 unique system for capsules that bind them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's 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 only Illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has a precise dose of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a special two-stage process that produces a rich crema. The extraction happens entirely inside the capsule, so the machine and coffee never meet, and clean-up is easy.
This machine also has an Pannarello steam wand that can be used to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. The distinctive design of this coffee pod machine, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a design statement in your living space. Its slender, round forms and soft-touch buttons reminiscent of classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
One downside of this machine is that it requires some more focus than other models, particularly when you are using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes prevent the hot water from flowing properly and stop the machine from working. It is necessary to wait for a few moments before preparing a second coffee to let the air escape.
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 small dimensions, attractive price tag and ease of use are among the major selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set by its parent company's? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, however it doesn't sacrifice performance. It makes drinks at the press of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it needs to create. It also automatically adjusts the proper amount of water and froth for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
It's very easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and choose the size of your drink. There are 40 different 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 coffee machine and pods save energy.
The descaler is designed to slot into the side of the machine. There are separate directions for this, but the process is easy and quick.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you'll receive a discount on your first T-DISCs order, and also personalized offers, tips and recommendations. You'll also be in a position to keep track of the condition of your machine, and also see how much water it has been using. It's worth registering your machine when you purchase it, also.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a renowned heritage brand that is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. It was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is run 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 also committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally sustainable as they can be. They have focused their efforts on efficiency in their energy use and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and the use of renewable energies. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is committed to helping their employees achieve. They have invested in programs that offer training and professional development for their staff and they have created a "university of coffee" which helps educate consumers and professionals on how to get the best possible cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to earn the B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies who prioritize ethics and have a mission. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was named one of the World's Most ethical companies for the last seven years. The company is dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a role to take on.