10 Best Pod Coffee Machine-Related Meetups You Should Attend
One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the MarketPod coffee machines are frequently accused of producing weak, watery drinks. Fortunately, the best pods can offer much more than that.
The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsules, and it is easy to customize.
1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System
This combination drip-and-single-serve coffee maker offers the best features of the models we've tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional ground coffee and a single-serve side that accepts any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe's side features an adjustable timer as well as an "strong" setting that gives more flavor than standard settings. It also has a built-in, foldaway frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at once using any size K-Cup or reuseable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than a leading Keurig. It also has advanced features like a 24-hour start time, brew intensity control and automatic shutoff.
It's easy to use despite having two modes of operation, and clean-up is relatively painless. The pod adapter is reusable, and the needles are easily removable for cleaning, and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. The machine is heavy and bulky for counter space but it's a great option for those who prefer the convenience of pods or the flexibility of coffee ground.
This budget-friendly cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock, an integrated milk frother, and an coffee filter that can be reused. It also has a huge reservoir for 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 but want to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is sleek, fast and can create five different drinks on one compact chassis. It's on sale now, making it an excellent choice for those with a tight budget.
The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is easy to use, using an automatic button that adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It makes use of the patented Nespresso pods with barcodes that inform the machine what kind of espresso or coffee is being used. This ensures you get the right temperature and water pressure for every drink. The capsules spin fast while brewing to create a layer of foam known as crema. It is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.
The only downsides to the VertuoLine are that it's a bit more loud than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse the used capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules is recyclable, so you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or on the Nespresso website.
The machine is also quite expensive compared to other pod coffee machines, especially when you factor in the cost of buying the pods. If you're already a coffee pod lover, it's a small amount to be paid for consistently barista-style results. Additionally, you can add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for lattes and cappuccinos. It's also available as bundles that include samples of Nespresso capsules as well as a milk frother which could help you save money upfront.
3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso
The majority of pod machines have the same brewing process: you insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee pours out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies convention. It is a revolutionary system for capsules that lock them into the portafilter handle. This lets the machine make an espresso that is similar to what you'd find at a cafe, however without all of the fuss and mess that is typical of an espresso maker.
The X7.1 is compatible with only Illy MIE pods which are made of top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule is stocked with an exact amount of espresso that is then brewed with a specific two-stage process to produce a rich crema. The extraction process is entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are never in contact. Cleaning up is a breeze.
This coffee pod machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks such as cappuccino and latte macchiato. The unique design of this coffee pod machine, designed by famous Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a design statement in your home. Its slim but round shapes and soft-touch buttons evoke the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the 1960s and seamlessly integrates modern technology.
The only drawback to this machine is that it needs some extra focus than other models, especially when you are using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can sometimes prevent the hot water from flowing correctly and stop the machine from working. If this happens, you'll have to wait for a few minutes before making another coffee to allow the air to escape.
4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x
The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most popular coffee makers available. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and easy-to-use are the main reasons for buying. Does this tiny machine meet the high standards set forth by its parent company's standards? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.
The Vivy is one of the most simple pod coffee machines on the market, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It makes drinks at the touch of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC in order to determine which drink it has to make. It also automatically adjusts the correct amount of froth and water for each drink, utilizing Intellibrew technology to achieve an outstanding result every time.
It's very easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and then 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 heat up and it has an auto-shutoff after read more five minutes.
The descaler is designed to fit on the side of the machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the procedure is quick and simple.
As an added benefit, if sign up your Vivy with Bosch, you'll get an extra discount on your first order of T DISCs and receive personalized offers, suggestions and tips. You can also keep track of the status of your machine, and check how much it has been used. It is a good idea to register your machine at the time you purchase it, as well.
5. Illycaffe B Pod
illycaffe, a leader in the coffee market and iconic heritage brand, is a global leader. It was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be operated by his children and spans across the world. The family-owned company has a long tradition of innovation and is renowned for its premium espresso made from nine different varieties of Arabica bean.
The company is committed to sustainability and has taken a variety of initiatives to to protect the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-friendly as they can. They have a particular focus on efficiency in their energy use and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energy sources. They have also promoted Regenerative farming and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.
illycaffe's commitment to 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 best cup of coffee.
In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to be awarded B-Corp certification. This is an international designation which recognizes companies that value ethics and a sense of mission. The company also recently introduced their first line of Nespresso compatible pods, and has been named one of the World's most ethical companies over the past seven years. The company is dedicated to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a role to take on.