One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently accused of making watery, weak drinks. Fortunately, the best ones can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods in place of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also has bundles of capsule options and easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This coffee maker that is a combination of drip and single-serve has the most impressive features of all the models we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds, and a single-serve side that accepts any type of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe's side features a programmable timer and it has a "strong" setting that produces more flavor than normal settings. It also comes with an integrated, fold-away frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup or reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's faster than a leading Keurig model when it comes to 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.
The device is simple to use despite the fact it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles and mesh filter are easily removed for cleaning. The unit is a bit heavy and bulky for counter space but it's an excellent option for those who want the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This low-cost cold brew machine produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It can create 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer as well as an integrated milk frother as well as an coffee filter that can be reused. It has a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is an excellent option if you are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, fast and can create five different drinks with one small chassis. It's even on sale right now making it an excellent option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is easy to use, with an automatic button that adjusts to the type of capsule you are using. It uses patent-pending Nespresso capsules with a barcode on them which tells the machine what kind of coffee or espresso it is, making sure you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin quickly while brewing to create an emulsion called crema, which is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawback is that it's louder than other pod-machines and you can't reuse capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.
The machine is costly when compared to other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod coffee fan, this is an affordable price to pay for consistent barista-style results. Additionally, you can add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for cappuccinos and lattes. It's also offered in bundles that include a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and a milk frother that can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is about brewing, most pod machines adhere to the same pattern - a capsule goes in the top and you press a button and coffee flows out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies convention. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that locks them into the portafilter handle. The machine can make espresso that is comparable to what you would get in a cafe without the mess and fuss of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods, which are made of premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule contains precisely proportions of espresso ground that is brewed in a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction is performed entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are never in contact. Cleaning up is an easy task.
This machine also has a Pannarello steam wand that can be used to make milky drinks, such as cappuccino or latte macchiato. The unique design of this coffee machine, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a design statement in your home. Its round, slender forms and soft-touch buttons are inspired by classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly merging modern technology.
The only drawback to this machine is that it needs some more focus than other models, particularly when you are using the steam wand. The reason for this is that the excess air can sometimes hinder the flow of hot water, which prevents the machine from functioning properly. If this happens, you'll need to wait a couple of minutes before making another coffee to allow the air to be released.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most well-known pod coffee machines on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and user-friendly interface are all big selling points. Does this machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, but it isn't sacrificing performance. It makes drinks with the push of a button, analyzing a personalised barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it needs to make. It also determines the right amount for the froth and water in each drink 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. There are 40 different drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to heat up and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
The descaler is cleverly designed to fit on the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it's very quick and simple.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you'll receive a discount for your first T-DISCs order, along with personalized offers, tips and suggestions. You'll also be able keep track of the condition of your machine and know how much water it has used. It is a good idea immediately after you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a renowned heritage brand and one of the leaders in the coffee industry. It was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be managed by his descendants and spans across the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is renowned for its top-quality espresso that is made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives that help to safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as eco friendly as possible. They have a particular focus on efficiency in energy use, and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint pod coffee maker and the use of renewable energy sources. They also promote regenerative farming and are focused on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is committed to helping their employees succeed. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees and they have developed 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 a B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies who prioritize ethics and a sense of purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was recognized as one of the world's most ethical companies for the last seven year. The company has been dedicated to proving that sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well, and they have the conviction that it is the responsibility of everyone to play their part.