One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are often criticised for making watery, weak drinks. The best ones are much more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the notorious K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also comes with a variety 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 best features of the models we've tested. It comes with an insulated 12-cup carafe that makes grounds in the traditional way, and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe side comes with an adjustable timer and a "strong" setting that gives more flavor than the standard settings. It also has an integrated, fold-away frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces at a single time using any size K-Cup and reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It is based on Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine settings for the perfect cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than Keurig's top-rated. It also comes with advanced features like a 24-hour start, brew intensity control and automatic shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two different modes of operation, and cleaning process is fairly easy. The reusable pod adapter, needles, and mesh filter are easily removed to clean. The unit is a bit heavy and bulky for counter space but it's an excellent option for those who desire the convenience of pods or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This low-cost cold brew machine produces a smooth, flavorful cup. It has a programmable timer as well as a built-in milk maker and a filter that can be reused, and can make 12 cups of java in one go. It comes with a large reservoir of water, as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot brews.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is an excellent option to consider if you're already a fan of the pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, fast and can create five different drinks on one compact chassis. It's even on sale right now making it an excellent choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is easy to use, using an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type capsule you are using. It uses patented Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly during brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, known as crema, which is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine are that it's a little louder than other pod machines and that you can't reuse the capsules that you've used. Fortunately the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable so you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is also quite expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you factor in the cost of buying the pods. If you've already a believer in the benefits of pod coffee, it's only a small cost to get consistent, barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. It's also offered in bundles that include samples of Nespresso capsules as well as a milk frother, which can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have a similar brewing process - you insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee comes out. But every now and then, a machine comes along that breaks convention right out of the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that bind them into a portafilter handle. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's like you would get at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess that is typical of an espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE capsules which are made from premium, high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule is stocked with an exact amount of espresso that is then brewed using a special two-stage process to produce a thick and rich crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are not in contact. Cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee maker includes a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky beverages like cappuccino or latte Macchiato. The unique design of this machine, designed by renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a design statement in your home. Its round but slender forms and soft-touch buttons are reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
One downside of this machine is that it requires some more focus than other models, especially when you are using the steam wand. This is because excess air can stop the flow of hot water, which prevents the machine from functioning properly. It is necessary to wait some time before making a second coffee to let the air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most popular coffee machines available. The small size, attractive pricing and user-friendly are major reasons to buy. Does this tiny machine meet the standards set by its parent company's standards? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it isn't sacrificing performance. It can make drinks with just a simple press of a button. It reads a barcode on the T DISC to determine coffee pods coffee machine what drink to make. It also sets the proper amount of water and froth in each drink by using Intellibrew technology to ensure an outstanding result every time.
It's very easy to use - simply insert the desired T disc and choose the size of your drink. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks as well as a milk jug to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes just three seconds to heat and shuts off automatically after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean, too using a cleverly-designed descaler that fits into the side of the machine. There are separate directions for this, but the procedure is easy and quick.
As an added bonus, if you sign up your Vivy with Bosch as a bonus, you'll receive a discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalised offers, recommendations and advice. You can also track the status of your machine, and check how much it has been used. It's a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, as well.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a leading player in the coffee industry and an iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned and operated company has a long history of embracing new technologies within the industry. It is renowned for its high quality espresso made from 9 different types 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 sustainable as they can be. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions and utilizing renewable energy sources. They have also promoted regenerative farming and are focused on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is committed to helping their employees thrive. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created an "university" of coffee that educates professionals and consumers alike on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to earn an B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies who prioritize ethics and have a mission. The company has also launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and has been named one of the World's most ethical companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can be beneficial to the environment and people alike, and they have an unshakeable belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to do their part.