One of the best coffee pod machine Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee pod-making machines are frequently criticized for producing watery, weak drinks. However, the top pods are more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also comes with a variety of capsules and simple customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the top pod coffee makers on the market, this combination single-serve and drip models offer the most comprehensive set of features we tested. It has a 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional manner and one-serve that will accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock as well as a “strong setting” that gives you more flavor. It comes with a fold-away frother that is built into the carafe for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust machine settings. It’s more efficient than a top Keurig model at making a full pot of coffee with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions, including a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control and auto shutoff.
It’s easy to use, despite having two modes of operation, and cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles, and mesh filter are easily removed for cleaning. The unit is a bit heavy and bulky for counter space but it’s a great choice for those who desire the convenience of pods coffee machines, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This simple cold brew maker is a great value option that produces an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It can create 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock and a milk frother that is integrated and a coffee filter that is reusable. It comes with a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe that can hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you’re already committed to the trend of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade the Keurig-style machine you have this is a great option. Nespresso’s newest espresso maker is stylish, fast and can create five different drinks in one chassis. It’s even on sale right now which makes it a great option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine Next can be heated up quickly and is incredibly easy to use by pressing a single button that automatically adapts to the kind of capsule you’re using. It uses patented Nespresso pods that feature barcodes that inform the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and pressure for every drink. The capsules spin quickly when they are brewing to create a layer of foam called crema, which is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine’s biggest drawback is that it’s more loud than other pod-machines and you aren’t able to reuse the capsules. 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 expensive when it is compared to other pod makers particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If, however, you’ve already convinced of the advantages of pod coffee, it’s a low cost to pay for consistent results that resemble baristas. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for cappuccinos and lattes. You can also buy it in bundles that include some of the Nespresso pods coffee machine as well as a frother. This will save you money up front.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have the same brewing process: you simply insert a capsule then press a button and the coffee is brewed. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy convention. It has a unique system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. The machine can make espresso that is similar to the one you can get in a cafe without the mess and hassle of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE pods that are made from top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule is stocked with a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed using a two-stage process. This creates a rich crema. The extraction happens completely inside the capsule, which means that the machine and the coffee do not meet, and clean-up is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand that can be used to make milky drinks, such as 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, round forms and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the ’60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
One drawback of this machine is that it needs some extra focus than other models, especially when you are using the steam wand. This is because excessive air can prevent the hot water from flowing correctly 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 sought-after coffee makers available. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing, and ease of operation are all major selling points. Does this machine meet the high standards set by its parent company’s? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it does not sacrifice performance. It makes drinks with the push of a button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC to determine which drink it has to create. It also automatically determines the right amount of water and froth for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to achieve an excellent result every time.
This makes it extremely simple to use – simply insert the desired T DISC and choose the desired drink size. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks as well as a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to heat up and automatically shuts off after five minutes, to save energy.
It’s easy to clean using a cleverly-designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it’s fast and easy.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you’ll receive a discount for your first order of T-DISCs along with personalized offers, tips and advice. You’ll also be able monitor the health of your machine and know how much water it’s been using. Registering your machine is an excellent idea as soon as you purchase it.
5. Illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe, a leader in the world of coffee and an famous heritage brand, is a world leader. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still managed by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned business has a history of innovation and is famous for its premium espresso made using nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions as well as using renewable energies. They have also promoted regenerative farming and are focused on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is also determined to help their employees thrive. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees, and they have also created an “university of coffee” that helps to educate consumers and professionals about how to enjoy the best cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain B-Corp certification. This is an international certification which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense of mission. The company also recently launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods. They have also been named one of the world’s most ethical companies over 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 responsibility to take on.