One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for watery, under-strength drinks. Fortunately, the best ones are more than that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods made from treated polypropylene cups which are designed to degrade in landfill (rather than the notorious K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It comes with a range of capsules, and it is easy to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the top pod coffee makers on the market, this single-serve and drip models offer the most comprehensive set of features that we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds, and a single-serve side that can accept any type of K-Cup, Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe has a programmable clock as well as a "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also comes with a built-in, foldaway frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at once using any size K-Cup, or a the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It uses Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and analyzes the barcodes of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model at brewing a full pot using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start, brew strength controls, and auto shutoff.
The device is easy to use, despite the fact that it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The reusable pod adapter, needles and mesh filter can be easily removed to clean. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space however, it's an excellent option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This low-cost cold brew machine creates a smooth, delicious cup. It comes with a timer that can be programmed as well as a built-in milk maker and a filter that can be reused, and can make 12 cups of java at a time. It has a large tank of water and a glass carafe that can hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option for those who are already a fan of pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's latest espresso machine is stylish, quick and has the ability to create five different drinks from one sleek, compact machine. It's on sale now and is a great choice for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is extremely simple to use, with a single button that automatically adapts to the kind of capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso pods that have a barcode to tell the machine which type of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and water pressure for each drink. The pods spin rapidly when they are brewing to create a layer of foam called crema, which is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine is that it's louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse capsules that you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or Nespresso's website.
The machine is also pretty expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you factor in the cost of buying the pods. However, if you're 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 the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for cappuccinos or lattes. It's also available in bundles that contain a few samples of Nespresso capsules as well as milk frothers that can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines adhere to a similar format - capsules are placed in the top and then you press a button, and the coffee oozes out. But every now and then, a device comes along that blows convention out of the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that lock them into the portafilter handle. This lets the machine create an espresso that's as good as you'd get at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules, which are made from premium, high-quality coffee machine for pods coffee beans. Each capsule contains an exact amount of espresso ground, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process that produces an intense crema. The extraction is done entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are not in contact. Cleaning up is easy.
The coffee pod comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky drinks like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. Its unique design, designed by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms 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. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the steam from flowing properly and stop the machine from working. If this happens, you'll have to wait for a few 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 adored coffee makers available. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing and ease of operation are all important selling points. But does this little machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines that are available, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It makes drinks at the press of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC to determine which drink it has to make. It also sets the proper amount of water and froth in each drink by using Intellibrew Technology to produce an outstanding result every time.
It is very simple to use - simply insert the desired T DISC and choose the size of your drink. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks, as well as an milk jug that can be used to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm up and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean too, with a cleverly designed descaler that slides into the side of the machine. This is a different process however it's very quick and easy.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you'll receive a discount for your first order of T-DISCs, as well as personalized offers, tips and advice. You'll also be able track the status of your machine and see how much water it has used. It's a good idea to register your machine as soon as you buy it, as well.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a well-known heritage brand that is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is run by his descendants and spans across the world. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing new technologies within the industry. It is known for its premium quality espresso, which is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives that help protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have focused on efficiency in energy use, and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, as well as the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on improving their water resources.
illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their commitment to help their employees achieve. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created a "university" of coffee to educate consumers and professionals alike on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded a B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies that place a high value on ethics and have a mission. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been recognized as one of the top 10 World's Ethical companies for the past seven years. The company is dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a part to take on.