9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Best Pod Coffee Machine
One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines capsules machines have a bit of an undeserved reputation for their low-strength, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best pods are more than that.
The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods, made from treated polypropylene cups that are designed to degrade in landfill (rather than the notorious K-Cups and Nespresso pods coffee machines). It also comes with a variety of capsule options as well as easy customisation.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the best features of the models we have tested. It comes with a 12-cup carafe that makes grounds in the traditional manner and a single-serve that accepts any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe has a programmable clock as well as a "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It also has a foldaway, built-in frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side is able to brew 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 included). It utilizes Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system and scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine settings for the perfect cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's faster at brewing full pots than the Keurig that is the most popular. It also has advanced features such as a 24-hour start time, brew intensity control, and automatic shutoff.
The device is simple to use, despite the fact that it has two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles are easily removed for cleaning and the filter can be washed in the sink. It's a bit heavy and heavy for counter space, but it's a great alternative for anyone looking to enjoy the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.
This simple cold brew maker is a budget pick that delivers an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It comes with a programmable timer and a built-in milk froth and a reusable filter, and can make 12 cups of java at a time. It also has a huge reservoir for water and a glass carafe to serve hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already accustom to the pod coffee machine trend and would like to upgrade your Keurig-style machine, this is an excellent alternative. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, efficient and can make five different drinks in one sleek, compact chassis. It's even on sale right now which makes it a great option for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is incredibly easy to use, with a single button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso pods with barcodes that inform the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you have the correct temperature and pressure for every drink. The pods also spin fast during brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, known as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The only drawbacks to the VertuoLine are that it's a little more loud than other pod machines, and that you aren't able to reuse the capsules you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on Nespresso's website.
The machine is also quite expensive in comparison to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you consider the cost of purchasing the pods. If, however, you've already a believer in the advantages of pod coffee, it's a low cost to get consistent results that resemble baristas. Additionally, you can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. It's also offered in bundles that include a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frother that can help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines use a similar brewing process - you place a capsule in and press a button, and the coffee pours out. However, every now and then a machine comes along that blows convention out of the water, as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that locks them into the portafilter handle. This allows the machine to produce an espresso similar to what you'd find at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods, which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule coffee maker is stocked with an exact amount of ground espresso, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to create a rich crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are not in contact. Clean-up is also an easy task.
This coffee pod machine is equipped with a Pannarello Steam Wand for making milky drinks like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. Its unique design, designed by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to make a statement in your kitchen. Its round, slender forms and soft-touch buttons reminiscent of the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly integrating modern technology.
The only drawback to this machine is that it requires some extra attention than other models, particularly when you are using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes hinder the flow of hot water, which can prevent the machine from working effectively. You will need to wait a few moments before preparing another cup of coffee to let the excess air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most popular coffee machines on the market. The small dimensions as well as the attractive pricing and ease of operation are all major selling points. Does this tiny machine meet the standards set by its parent company's? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is among the simplest pod coffee machines on the market, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It can make drinks with just a single press of a button. It scans the barcode on the DisC to determine the type of drink to make. It also determines the right amount of water and froth in every drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce the best results every time.
It's easy to use. Simply insert the desired T DISC and select the size of your drink. There are 40 different drinks to choose from and the Vivy comes with a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to warm, and has auto-shut-off after five minutes, to save energy.
It's easy to clean, too, with a cleverly designed descaler that slides into the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is simple and quick.
If you sign up for your Vivy, you will receive a discount for your first T-DISCs order, and also customized offers, tips and recommendations. You'll also be able track the status of your machine and see the amount of water it has used. It is a good idea to register your machine at the time you purchase it, as well.
5. illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe is a well-known brand with a long history and is a one of the leaders in the coffee industry. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is operated by his children and spans across the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long history of embracing innovation within the field, and is renowned for its top quality espresso, which is made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has taken a variety of initiatives to protect the environment. They also ensure that their products are as green as possible. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions and also utilizing renewable energies. They also have worked to promote regenerative agriculture, and have a particular focus on enhancing their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is committed to helping their employees succeed. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created an "university" of coffee to train consumers and professionals alike on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to earn an B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies that are committed to ethics and a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and was recognized as one of the top 10 World's ethical companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can make a difference for both the environment and people, and they have the conviction that it is up to everyone to play their part.