One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for low-strength, watery drinks. The best ones are much more than just that.
The illy-Bruvi is made of B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups that are supposed to break down in landfill (rather than the hated K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also offers a range of capsule options and easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
One of the top pod coffee makers on the market, this combination drip and single-serve model offers the best blend of features in our test. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that can accept any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe comes with a programmable clock and an "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It comes with an easy-to-folding frother that's built into the carafe to make lattes and capspuccinos.
The single-serve version can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time, using any size K-Cup or reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate water reservoir is included). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings to make a perfect cup every time. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew thanks to its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like a 24 hour brew start, brew strength control, and auto shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two different operating modes, and the cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles are easily removed to clean, and the mesh filter is washable in the sink. 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 simple cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that provides an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It comes with 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 at a time. 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 would like to upgrade your Keurig-style machine This is a great alternative. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, fast and can create five different drinks from one sleek, compact chassis. It's on sale now, making it an excellent option for anyone with a budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is easy to use, thanks to an automatic button that adjusts to the type capsule you are using. It uses patent-pending Nespresso pods that feature an identifier barcode that tells the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin fast while brewing to create a layer of foam known as crema that is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod machines and you can't reuse capsules. 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 no cost and they'll return them to you to reuse.
The machine is expensive when compared to other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If you've already convinced of the benefits of pod coffee, it's a small cost to pay for consistently good barista-like results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. You can also purchase it in bundles, which contain a few samples of the Nespresso pods and a frother. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee pours out. But every now and then, a device comes along that is a complete blow to the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It uses a different system for capsules and locks them in a portafilter-like handle. This allows the machine to create an espresso that's similar to what you'd find in a cafe, but without the hassle 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 ground espresso that is brewed using two stages. This results in a thick crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are not in contact. Cleaning up is an easy task.
This machine also has an Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks, such as cappuccino or macchiato latte. The unique design of this machine, created by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold statement in your home. Its slim, round shapes and soft-touch buttons are like the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly mixing modern technology.
One downside of this machine is that it needs a little more attention than some other models, especially when you are using the steam wand. This is because excessive air can prevent the hot water from flowing properly, preventing the machine from functioning. If this happens, you'll have to wait for a few minutes before making another cup of coffee to allow the excess 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. Its small dimensions, attractive price tag and user-friendly interface are among the major selling points. But can this tiny machine live up to the high standards set by the company that owns it? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is one of the simplest pod coffee machines available, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It can create drinks with a single press of a button. It scans a barcode on the T DISC to determine what drink to prepare. It also automatically sets the proper amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to produce an excellent result every time.
This makes it extremely simple to use - just insert the desired T DISC, then select the desired drink size. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks and a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes just three seconds to warm and automatically shuts off after five minutes to save energy.
It's very easy to clean, too, with a cleverly designed descaler that slides into the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it's very quick and simple.
If you sign up your Vivy, you will get a discount on your first order of T-DISCs, as well as customized offers, tips and recommendations. You can also track the progress of your machine, and check how much it's used. It's a good idea to register your machine as soon as you buy it, also.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand that is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be managed by his descendants and spans the globe. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is renowned for its premium espresso made using nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability and has taken a variety of initiatives to help preserve the environment. They also make sure that their products are as environmentally friendly as is possible. They have focused on efficiency in energy use, and are determined to reduce their emissions, as well as the use of renewable energy sources. They have also been working to promote regenerative agriculture and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, illycaffe is determined to help their employees achieve. They have invested in programs that provide training and professional development for their employees and have created an "university of coffee" that helps to educate consumers and professionals alike about how to enjoy the best possible cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded the B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies that place a high value on ethics and have a mission. The company has also launched coffee pods machines 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 committed to demonstrating that sustainable quality can make a difference for the environment and for people as well, and they have an unshakeable belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to play their part.