Don't Stop! 15 Things About Best Pod Coffee Machine We're Tired Of Hearing
One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their watery, under-strength drinks. Fortunately, the best pods can offer much more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods in place of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also offers a range of capsule options as well as easy customization.
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 glass carafe that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that accepts any kind of K-Cup, Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe is programmable with a clock as well as it has a "strong setting" that makes more flavor. It has an easy-to-folding frother that's integrated into the carafe to serve 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, which scans the barcode of each pod to adjust machine's settings to ensure an ideal cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's more efficient in brewing full-pots than Keurig's top-rated. It also has advanced features like a 24-hour start, brew intensity controls and automatic shutoff.
It's simple to use, despite having two operating modes, and the clean-up is relatively painless. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles, and mesh filter can be easily removed for cleaning. The unit is a bit heavy and bulky for counter space but it's a great choice for those who prefer the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.
This budget-friendly cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It comes with a programmable timer, a built-in milk frother 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 that can hold hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
If you're already committed to the pod coffee machine trend and want to upgrade from your current Keurig-style machine this is a great alternative. Nespresso's newest espresso machine is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks on one sleek, compact machine. It's available for sale right now and is a great choice for those with a tight 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're using. It utilizes patent-pending Nespresso capsules that have a barcode which tells the machine what kind of coffee or espresso it is, ensuring that you get the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods spin rapidly while brewing to create an emulsion known as crema that is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's a bit more loud 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 and you can drop them off at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free and they'll take them back to recycle.
The machine is pricey when compared to other pod machines particularly when you add the cost of the pods. If you've already convinced of the benefits of pod coffee, it's a low cost to get consistent, barista-style results. Plus, coffee machines with capsules can add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine to make lattes and cappuccinos. It is also available in bundles, which include some of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will make it cheaper to buy the machine in the beginning.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
When it is time to brew, the majority of pod machines use a similar format - capsules are placed on the top and then you press a button, and the coffee is poured out. But every now and then, a machine comes along that is a complete blow to the water, such as is the case with the Illy X7.1 Iperespresso. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that bind them into a portafilter handle. The machine can make espresso that is as good as 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 that are made of premium coffee beans of the highest quality. Each capsule has precisely proportioned amounts of espresso ground, which is then brewed using a unique two-stage process to produce a thick and rich crema. The extraction process is entirely within the capsule, meaning that the coffee and machine never meet, and clean-up is easy.
This coffee pod machine also has a Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks like cappuccino and latte macchiato. The unique design of this coffee pod machine, created by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your home. Its round but slender forms and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can sometimes prevent the hot water from flowing correctly and stop the machine from functioning. You'll need to wait several minutes before making a second coffee to let the excess air go.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most popular pod coffee machines on the market. The small dimensions, attractive pricing and user-friendly are major selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set by its parent company's? We took it for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.
The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, but it does not sacrifice its performance. It can make drinks with a single touch. It scans a barcode on the T DISC to determine what drink to prepare. It also automatically sets the proper amount of water and froth for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to produce an excellent result every time.
This makes it easy to operate - just insert the desired T DISC, then select your preferred drink size. There are 40 drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk jug that can be used for making lattes or cappuccinos. It only takes three seconds to warm up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.
It's very easy to clean using a cleverly-designed descaler that slots into the side of the machine. This is a different process however it's fast and easy.
If you register your Vivy, you'll receive a discount on your first order of T-DISCs and also personalized offers, tips and recommendations. You'll also be able to keep track of the condition of your machine and know how much water it has used. It's a good idea to register your machine at the time you purchase it, as well.
5. illycaffe B-Pod
illycaffe is a market leader in the coffee market and famous heritage brand, is a world leader. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still operated by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned and operated company has a long history of embracing new technologies within the field, and is known for its premium quality espresso made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has implemented numerous initiatives to preserve the environment. They also ensure that their products are as environmentally friendly as they can. They have a particular focus on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint as well as using renewable energy sources. They have also been working to promote regenerative agriculture, and are focusing on improving their water resources.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, illycaffe is also committed to helping their employees thrive. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their staff and they have developed a "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals alike about how to enjoy the most optimal cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned an B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies who prioritize ethics and a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible Pods and been recognized 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 take on.