One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market

Pod coffee machines are frequently criticised for producing weak, watery drinks. However, the top pods can provide more than that.

The illy Bruvi utilizes B-Pods in place of K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsule options, and it is easy to personalize.

1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System

One of the top pod coffee makers available on the market, this combination single-serve and drip models offer the best combination of features that we have tested. It has a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds and one-serve side that will accept any kind of K-Cup Keurig-like, reusable or Keurig pod. The carafe side comes with an adjustable timer and a "strong" setting that produces more flavor than the normal settings. It also comes with an easy-to-folding frother that's built into the carafe to make lattes and capspuccinos.

The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces at a time with any size of K-Cup and reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cups or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and reads the barcode of each pod to adjust machine settings. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's quicker at making full-pots of brew than a leading Keurig. It also comes with advanced features, like a 24 hour start time, brew intensity control and an automatic shutoff.

The device is simple to use despite the fact it has two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The pod adapter that is reusable, needles, and mesh filter are easily removed to clean. It's a bit bulky and heavy for counter space, but it's a great option for anyone who wants the convenience of pods or the versatility of ground coffee.

This simple cold brew maker is a budget pick that produces an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It can make 12 cups at a time and comes with a programmable clock, an integrated milk frother and an coffee filter that can be reused. It also comes with a large reservoir for water and a glass carafe to serve hot coffee.

2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next

This is an excellent option to consider if you're already a fan of the pod coffee machines and want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso’s newest espresso maker is sleek, efficient, and can make five different drinks with one chassis. It's also on sale now which makes it a great option for those with a tight budget.

The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is simple to use, thanks to an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It uses the patented Nespresso capsules which have a barcode on them that informs the machine of what kind of espresso or coffee it is, making sure you have the right temperature and amount of water pressure for each drink. The capsules spin fast when they are brewing to create an emulsion called crema, which is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.

The only downsides to the VertuoLine are that it's a little louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse the used capsules. The aluminum used in Nespresso capsules can be recycled, so you can recycle the capsules at your local UPS store or Nespresso's website.

The machine is pricey when compared to other pod machines, especially if you include the cost of the pods. If, however, you've already a believer in the benefits of pod coffee, it's only a small cost to get consistent, barista-style results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make cappuccinos or lattes. It's also available in bundles that include a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frother that can save you money upfront.

3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso

Most pod machines have the same brewing process: you simply insert a capsule, press a button and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that eschew convention. It utilizes a different mechanism for capsules, locking them into place in a portafilter-like hand. This lets the machine create an espresso that's similar to what you'd find at a cafe, however without all of the fuss and mess that comes with a traditional espresso maker.

The X7.1 is compatible with Illy MIE pods that are made from premium, high-quality beans. Each capsule contains an exact amount of ground espresso that is brewed in a two-stage process. This results in a thick crema. The extraction is done entirely within the capsule. This means that the machine and the coffee are never in contact. Cleaning up is an easy task.

The coffee pod also comes with a Pannarello steam wand to make milky drinks, such as cappuccino or latte macchiato. Its unique design, designed by famed Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to stand out in your kitchen. Its slender, round forms and soft-touch buttons are inspired by the classic Italian espresso makers from the 1960s while seamlessly mixing modern technology.

This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is because excess air can stop the flow of hot water, which prevents the machine from functioning effectively. You will need to wait several minutes before making a second coffee to let the air escape.

4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x

The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most adored coffee machines available. Its compact dimensions, attractive price and ease of use are the main reasons for buying. But does this little machine live up to the high standards set by its parent company? We tested it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.

The Vivy is a basic pod coffee machine, however it does not sacrifice its performance. It can make drinks with a simple press of a button. It reads the barcode on the DISC to determine which drink to make. It also sets the proper amount of water and froth in every drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce the best results every time.

This makes it very easy to operate - just insert the desired T DISC and select the size you prefer for your drink. The Vivy has 40 different drinks and a milk jug to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes just three seconds to warm up, and has auto-shut-off after five minutes to conserve energy.

The descaler is cleverly designed to fit into the side of your machine. This is a separate process however it's very quick and easy.

As an added benefit, if sign up your Vivy with Bosch and Bosch, you'll receive discounts on your first order of T DISCs. You'll also receive personalized offers, recommendations and tips. You'll also be able monitor the health of your machine and know how much water it has used. Registering your machine is an excellent idea as soon as you purchase it.

5. Illycaffe B Pod

illycaffe is an iconic brand with a long history and is a leader in the coffee industry. Founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company is managed by his descendants and is spread across the globe. The family-owned business has a history of innovation and is famous for its premium espresso made using nine different varieties of Arabica bean.

The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number initiatives to help preserve the environment. They also make sure that their products are as eco-friendly as possible. They have focused on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions as well as using renewable energy sources. They also have worked to promote regenerative agriculture and have a particular focus on improving their water resources.

illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their determination to help their employees succeed. They have invested in programs that offer training and professional development for their staff, and they have also developed an "university of coffee" that assists in educating consumers and professionals on how to make the best cup of coffee.

illycaffe is also the first Italian company that has earned the B Corp certification. This designation is awarded to companies who prioritize ethics and have a 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 committed to coffee machines with capsules demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment as well as people. They believe that everyone has a responsibility to play.