One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market

Pod coffee machines have an undeserved reputation for their low-strength, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best ones can provide more than that.

The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It also offers a range of capsules and simple customization.

1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System

One of the top pod coffee makers available on the market, this single-serve and drip model has the most comprehensive set of features we tested. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe that brews traditional grounds, and a single-serve side that accepts any kind of K-Cup, Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe side has a programmable timer and it has a "strong" setting that gives more flavor than standard settings. It has an easy-to-folding frother that's built into the carafe for lattes and capspuccinos.

The single-serve side can make up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup, or a reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine settings for the perfect cup every time. It's faster than a leading Keurig model at making a full-sized pot of brew with its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced features like a 24 hour brew start, brew strength control and auto shutoff.

The device is simple to use despite the fact that it has two operating modes. It also cleans easily. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles, and mesh filter can be removed to clean. The unit is a bit heavy and heavy for counter space, however it's an excellent option for those who desire the convenience of pods, or the versatility of coffee ground.

This basic cold brew machine is a budget-friendly option that produces an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at once and features a programmable timer as well as an integrated milk frother as well as a coffee filter that can be reused. It also has a large reservoir of water and a glass carafe for hot brews.

2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next

If you're already committed to the pod coffee machine trend and would like to upgrade your Keurig-style machine this is a great alternative. Nespresso's new espresso maker is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks in one compact chassis. It's currently on sale which makes it a great choice for those with a tight budget.

The VertuoLine is then able to heat 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 capsules which have an identifier on them that informs the machine of what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring that you get the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The pods also spin rapidly during brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, known as crema. It is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.

The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's more loud than other pod machines and that you can't reuse capsules that you've used. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, so you can recycle them at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.

The machine is expensive when contrasted with other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. However, if you're already convinced of the advantages of pod coffee, it's a low cost to get consistently good barista-like results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine for lattes or cappuccinos. It's also available in bundles that include sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and a milk frother which could help you save money upfront.

3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso

Most pod machines have the same brewing process: you simply insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee pours out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies the norm. It utilizes a different mechanism for capsules and locks them in a portafilter-like handle. The machine produces espresso that is as good as the kind you get at cafes, without the hassle and mess of a 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 is stocked with an exact amount of espresso ground that is brewed using a two-stage process. This produces a rich crema. The extraction happens entirely within the capsule, which means that the machine and the coffee do not come into contact and cleanup is easy.

The coffee pod also comes with a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks such as cappuccino and macchiato latte. The unique design of this coffee pod machine, created by the famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a bold design statement in your home. Its round, slender forms and soft-touch buttons inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s, while seamlessly integrating modern technology.

One downside of this machine is that it requires some more focus than other models, particularly when you are using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can sometimes prevent the hot water from flowing properly making it impossible for the machine to continue functioning. You will need to wait several minutes before making another cup of coffee to let the excess air escape.

4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x

The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most popular coffee machines available. The compact dimensions, attractive pricing, and the ease of use are important selling points. But can this tiny machine meet the high standards set by the parent company? 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 the performance. It can create drinks with a single press of a button. It scans the barcode on the DISC to determine what drink to prepare. It also determines the right amount of water and froth in each drink by using Intellibrew technology to ensure an excellent outcome every time.

This makes it extremely simple to operate - just insert the desired T DISC, then select the size you prefer for your drink. There are 40 drinks to choose from, and the Vivy comes with a milk container for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to warm up and shuts off automatically after five minutes, to save energy.

It's easy to clean too thanks to a cleverly designed descaler that slots into the side of the machine. This is a separate procedure however it's very quick and simple.

If you sign up for your Vivy, you will receive a discount on your first T-DISCs order, and also customized offers, tips and suggestions. You can also track the condition of your machine, and find out how much it has used. It is a good idea to register your machine at the time you purchase it, capsule coffee machines also.

5. Illycaffe B Pod

illycaffe, a leader in the world of coffee and an iconic heritage brand, is a world leader. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is managed by his descendants and spans across the world. The family-owned and operated business has a long track record of embracing new technologies within the industry. It is known for its premium quality espresso that is made from 9 different varieties of Arabica beans.

The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives that help to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco green as they can. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions as well as using renewable energy sources. They also promote the practice of regenerative agriculture and are focusing on enhancing 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 have created a "university" of coffee that educates both consumers and professionals on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.

illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned an B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies who prioritize ethics and a purpose. The company has also launched its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named as one of the world's most Ethical companies for the past 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 play.