20 Questions You Need To ASK ABOUT Best Pod Coffee Machine Before Purchasing It
One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market
Pod coffee machines have a bit of an undeserved reputation for their watery, under-strength drinks. The best pods are more than just that.
The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods made from treated polypropylene cups which are supposed to degrade in landfill (rather than the notorious K-Cups and Nespresso pods). It also offers a range of capsule options and easy customization.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker has the most impressive features of all the models we have tested. It has a 12-cup carafe that is brewed in the traditional way and single-serve that can accept any K-Cup or Keurig-like pod. The carafe side comes with an adjustable timer and it has a "strong" setting that provides more flavor than normal settings. It also comes with an easy-to-folding frother that's integrated into the carafe to serve capspuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which reads the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine's settings to make a perfect cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's more efficient in brewing full-pots than Keurig's top-rated. It also comes with advanced features, like a 24 hour start, brew intensity controls, and automatic shutoff.
It's easy to use, despite having two different operating modes, and the cleaning is pretty easy. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles can be removed for cleaning and the mesh filter is washable in the sink. It's quite bulky and heavy for counter space however it's a great alternative for anyone looking to enjoy the convenience of pods or the versatility of ground coffee.
This basic cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that delivers an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and features a programmable timer as well as an integrated milk frother and an reusable coffee filter. It also comes with a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe for hot coffee.
2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next
This is a great option for those who are already a fan of the pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's latest espresso machine is stylish, quick and can create five different drinks from one sleek, compact machine. It's even on sale right now which makes it a great choice for any budget.
The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is simple to use, using a button that adapts automatically to the type capsule you're using. It makes use of patented Nespresso pods with barcodes that inform the machine which type of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures that you get the right temperature and pressure for every drink. The pods also spin fast during brewing, creating an indulgence-inducing layer of foam, referred to as crema, which is usually found on traditional Italian style espresso.
The VertuoLine's biggest drawback is that it's louder than other pod-machines and that you cannot reuse the capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, which means you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or Nespresso's website.
The machine is also pretty expensive when compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you factor in the cost of buying the pods. If you're already a coffee pod fan, the cost is an affordable price to pay for consistent barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few samples of Nespresso capsules and milk frothers that can save you money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
Most pod machines have the same brewing procedure - you place a capsule in, press a button and the coffee pours out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy the norm. It has a unique system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. This lets the machine create an espresso that's like you would get at 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 top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has an exact amount of ground espresso, which is brewed in a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule, meaning that the coffee and machine never meet and cleaning up is easy.
This coffee maker comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky drinks like cappuccino or Latte Macchiato. Its unique design, designed by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 60s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
This machine requires more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the steam from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue working. You'll need to wait several minutes before making another cup of coffee in order to let the excess air out.
4. pod coffee machines coffeee.uk has become one of the most popular coffee machines available. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and ease of use are all big selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set forth by its parent company's? We tested it at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is one of the simplest pod coffee machines on the market however it doesn't sacrifice on performance. It makes drinks with the press of a single button, by reading a unique barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it has to create. It also sets the correct amount of water and froth in each drink using Intellibrew technology to ensure an excellent outcome every time.
This makes it very easy to operate - just insert the desired T DISC and choose your preferred drink size. The Vivy comes with 40 different drinks, as well as a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes just three seconds to warm up and it shuts down automatically after five minutes.
The descaler has been designed to slot into the side of the machine. There are separate directions for this, but the process is quick and simple.
As a bonus, if you sign up your Vivy with Bosch, you'll get a discount on your first purchase of T DISCs and receive personalized offers, recommendations and suggestions. You can also track the status of your machine and see how much it has been used. It's 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 one of the leaders in the coffee industry. The company was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still operated by his descendants. It has a presence across the globe. The family-owned company has a long tradition of innovation and is renowned for its premium espresso made from nine different types of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability, and has taken a variety of initiatives to help to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-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 energies. They have also been working to promote regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.
Illycaffe's commitment towards sustainability is matched by their determination to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created a "university" of coffee to educate both consumers and professionals on how to make the perfect cup of coffee.
illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded an B Corp certification. This international designation recognizes companies that are committed to ethics and have a mission. The company also recently launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and they have been named one of the World's most ethical companies for the last seven years. The company has been committed to proving that sustainable quality can be beneficial to the environment and people alike, and they have the conviction that it is up to everyone to take action.