One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often accused of making watery, weak drinks. The best ones are much more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also has bundles of capsule options as well as easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the best pod coffee makers on the market, this combination drip and single-serve model offers the most comprehensive set of features that we have tested. It has a 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional way and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock and an "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also has a built-in, foldaway frother 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 the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust machine's settings to ensure a perfect cup every time. It's more efficient than a top Keurig model in making a full pot of coffee thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like a 24 hour brew start, brew strength controls and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles are easily removable to clean, and the filter can be washed in the sink. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This budget-friendly cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at once and has a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother and an coffee filter that can be reused. It has a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is an excellent option for those who are already a fan of pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, fast, and can make five different drinks on one small chassis. It's even on sale right now making it an excellent option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine Next is very hot quickly and is extremely easy to use by pressing a single button that automatically adapts to the type of capsule you're using. It utilizes the patented Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine which kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you get the correct temperature and pressure for every drink. The pods also spin fast when brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, also known as crema, which is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides 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. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.
The machine is also pretty expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you consider the cost of buying pods. If you're already a pod-coffee fan, this is a small price to be paid for consistently barista-like results. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for lattes and cappuccinos. It is also available in bundles that include a few samples of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will help you save money upfront.
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 and you press a button and coffee flows out. But now and then a machine comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, like is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a completely different system for capsules that lock them in place in a portafilter-like handle. This lets the machine produce an espresso similar to what you'd find at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible only with illy MIE pods that are made from top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has precisely proportioned amounts of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a special two-stage process to create a thick and rich crema. The extraction is performed entirely within the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are not in contact. Cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky beverages like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. The unique design, developed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. 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 more attention, especially when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can block the hot water from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue working. 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 sought-after pod coffee machines available on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and easy-to-use are among the major selling points. Does this tiny machine meet the high standards set by its parent company's? We went for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is one of the most simple pod coffee machines available however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It makes drinks at the touch of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to make. It also sets the correct amount for water and froth in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce an outstanding result every time.
This makes it very easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, then select your preferred drink size. 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 just three seconds to warm up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
The descaler is cleverly designed to slot into the side of your machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is simple and quick.
As an added benefit, if sign up your Vivy with Bosch, you'll get discounts on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalized offers, suggestions and tips. You'll also be able monitor the health of your machine and know the amount of water it has been using. Registering coffee machines with pods is also a good idea when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in the coffee industry and an famous heritage brand, is a world leader. It was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is still managed by his descendants and spans across the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long track record of embracing new technologies in the industry, and is known for its premium quality espresso made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as environmentally green as they can. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions and utilizing renewable energy sources. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture and have a particular focus on improving their water resources.
illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their determination to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees and have created an "university" of coffee to educate both consumers and professionals on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded an B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies that are committed to ethics and a sense of purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible Pods and been recognized as one of the World's Most ethical companies over 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.