One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines are frequently criticised for producing watery, weak drinks. Fortunately, the best pods can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods, which are made of treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It offers a variety of capsule options, and it is easy to personalize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This coffee maker that is a combination of drip and single-serve has the best features of all the models we've tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that can accept any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock and it has a "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It comes with an adjustable frother that folds away and is built into the carafe for capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces per hour using any size K-Cup and reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It makes use of Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. It's faster than a leading Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two operating modes, and the clean-up is relatively painless. The reusable pod adapter and needles are easily removable for cleaning and the mesh filter is washable in the sink. The machine is heavy and bulky for counter space but it's a great choice for those who want the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This budget-friendly cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It has a programmable timer and a built-in milk froth and a reusable filter, and can make 12 cups of java at once. It has a large reservoir of water, as well as a glass carafe to hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already bought in to the pod coffee machine trend and are looking to upgrade your Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent alternative. Nespresso’s newest espresso maker is sleek, efficient, and can make five different drinks in one small chassis. It's also on sale now, making it a great option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is simple to use, thanks to an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type capsule you are using. It makes use of patented Nespresso pods that feature a barcode to tell the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures that you get the correct temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin fast when brewing, creating an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, also known as crema. It is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine is that it's a bit louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse used capsules. Fortunately, the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable and you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for no cost and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is costly when it is compared to other pod makers in particular when you consider the cost of the pods. If you're already a coffee pod fan, this is a small amount to pay for consistently barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make cappuccinos and lattes. It is also available in bundles, which contain a few samples of the Nespresso pods and a frother. capsule coffee makers will help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is about brewing, most pod machines use the same pattern - capsules are placed in the top and then you press a button and coffee flows out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy convention. It has a completely different system for capsules and locks them inside a portafilter-like handle. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's as good as you'd get at a cafe, however without all of the fuss and mess of a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE pods which are made of premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule has precisely proportions of espresso ground that is brewed in two stages. This produces a rich crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are not in contact. Cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee maker includes a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and macchiato latte. Its unique design, designed by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. Its round, slender forms and soft-touch buttons inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can hinder the flow of hot water, which can prevent the machine from working effectively. If this happens, you'll have 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 sought-after pod coffee machines on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and ease of use are the main reasons for buying. But can this tiny machine meet the high standards set by its parent company? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee maker, but it does not sacrifice its performance. It can make drinks with the push of a button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC in order to determine what drink it should make. It also automatically sets the correct amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.
It's easy to use - just insert the desired T disc and select the size of your drink. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks and a milk jug for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes just three seconds to warm up and it has an auto-shutoff 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 separate process, but it's quick and simple.
If you sign up your Vivy, you will receive a discount on your first T-DISCs order, and also specific offers, tips and suggestions. You'll also be able to keep track of the condition of your machine and know how much water it's been using. It is a good idea when you purchase it.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand that is a leader in the coffee industry. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still operated by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is known for its premium espresso made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number initiatives to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as green as is possible. They have focused on efficiency in their energy use and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energies. They have also worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to assist their employees in achieving success. 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 best cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain a B-Corp certification, which is an international certification that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense of purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named as one of the world's most ethical companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a role to play.