(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/778/2841/dolce-gusto-delonghi-nescafe-infinissima-pod-capsule-coffee-machine-espresso-cappuccino-and-more-1-2-liters-edg260-r-red-black-2841.jpg)One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/778/2794/bosch-tas1003-standing-fully-auto-pod-coffee-machine-0-7l-black-red-coffee-maker-tas1003-standing-pod-coffee-machine-0-7-l-ground-coffee-1400-w-black-red-2794.jpg)Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their low-strength, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best pods can provide more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods in place of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also comes with a variety of capsule options and easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the best pod coffee machine features of the models we tested. It has a 12-cup carafe which makes grounds in the traditional way, and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe's side features an adjustable timer and a “strong” setting that provides more flavor than the normal settings. It also comes with a built-in, foldaway frother to make cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side is able to brew up to 18 ounces per hour with any size of K-Cup and reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule coffee machine system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine settings for an ideal cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than the Keurig that is the most popular. It also has advanced features such as a 24-hour start, brew intensity control and an automatic shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two different operating modes, and cleaning process is fairly easy. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles can be removed to clean, and the filter can be washed in your sink. It's a bit bulky and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for anyone who needs the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This simple cold brew machine is a great value option that delivers smooth and delicious cups. It can make 12 cups at once and has a programmable clock, an integrated milk frother and a coffee filter that is reusable. It comes with a large reservoir of water as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot beverages.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great choice to consider if you're already a fan of pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's new espresso maker is stylish, fast and can make five different drinks in one compact chassis. It's on sale now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is easy to use, with an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It utilizes the patented Nespresso pods with barcodes that inform the machine which kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly while brewing, resulting in an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema, that is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's only downside is that it's louder than other pod machines and you aren't able to reuse the capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.
The machine is costly when compared to other pod capsule coffee machine machines in particular when you consider the cost of the pods. If you're already a coffee pod fan, this is an affordable price to pay for consistent barista-like results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frother that can save you money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it comes to brewing, most pod machines use a similar format - a capsule goes in the top and you press a button, and coffee flows out. However, every now and then there is a machine that blows convention out of the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It has a unique system for capsules that lock them into the portafilter handle. The machine can produce espresso that is similar to what you would get in a cafe without the mess and hassle of the traditional espresso machine.
The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE capsules which are made from premium high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule has a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed using a two-stage process. This creates a rich crema. The extraction is done entirely within the capsule. This means that the machine and the coffee machines for pods are not in contact. Clean-up is also easy.
This machine also has an Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks, such as cappuccino or latte macchiato. Its unique design, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s, while seamlessly integrating advanced technology.
This machine requires more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the hot water from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue functioning. If this happens, you'll have to wait 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 is one of the most sought-after pod coffee machines on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and easy-to-use are among the major selling points. Does this machine meet the high standards set forth by its parent company's? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to find out.
The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it doesn't sacrifice its performance. It can make drinks with a simple press of a button. It reads an image of a barcode on the DISC to determine which drink to prepare. It also sets the correct amount for the froth and water in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to achieve an outstanding result every time.
This makes it very easy to use - just insert the desired T DISC and select the desired drink size. There are 40 drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk container for making lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm and automatically shuts off after five minutes, to save energy.
The descaler is cleverly designed to fit into the side of your machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the procedure is quick and simple.
As an added benefit, if register your Vivy through Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive an extra discount on your first purchase of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalised offers, recommendations and suggestions. You can also keep track of the progress of your machine, and see how much it has been used. It is a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, also.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is an iconic heritage brand that is a leader in the coffee industry. It was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is managed by his descendants and is spread across the world. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is known for its premium espresso made from nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as eco sustainable as they can be. They have focused their efforts on energy efficiency, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint as well as the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitments to sustainability, Illycaffe is determined to help their employees succeed. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their employees and have created a “university of coffee” that assists in educating both professionals and consumers about how to enjoy the most optimal cup of coffee.
In addition to all of this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to be awarded a B-Corp certification, which is an international label that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense of mission. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was recognized as one of the world's most Ethical companies for the past seven year. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people alike and has an unshakeable belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to play their part.