One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market

Pod coffee machines are frequently accused of producing watery, weak drinks. However, the top pods are more than that.

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

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 blend of features in our test. It comes with a 12-cup glass carafe that brews traditional grounds and a single-serve side that accepts any type 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 also has a foldaway, built-in frother for lattes and cappuccinos.

The single-serve side can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee capsules machines at a time, using any size K-Cup, or a reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cups (a separate reservoir for water is also included). It utilizes Nespresso VertuoLine capsules and analyzes the barcodes of each pod to adjust machine settings. It's quicker than the leading Keurig model in making a full-sized pot of brew using its Extreme Brew technology and has advanced functions like a 24-hour brew start time, brew strength control and auto shutoff.

The device is simple to use, despite the fact that it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The reusable pod adapter, needles and mesh filter can be removed to clean. It's quite bulky and heavy for counter space, but 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 pick that provides a smooth and flavorful cup. It has a programmable timer as well as a built-in milk maker and a reusable filter, and can make 12 cups of java at a time. It has a large tank of water, as well as a glass carafe that can hold hot brews.

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 style machine. Nespresso's new espresso machine is sleek, efficient and can create five different drinks from one sleek, compact machine. It's even on sale right now, making it a great option for anyone with a budget.

The VertuoLine will then heat up quickly and is simple to use, using an adjustable button that automatically adjusts to the type of capsule you're using. It makes use of patented Nespresso pods with an identifier barcode that tells the machine which kind of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures that you get the right temperature and water pressure for every drink. The capsules spin quickly when they are brewing to create a layer of foam called crema, which is typical for traditional Italian style espresso.

The only downsides to the VertuoLine is that it's a bit louder than other pod machines, and that you can't reuse the used capsules. Fortunately the aluminum used in Nespresso pods is recyclable and you can drop them off at the local UPS store or on the Nespresso website for free, and they'll return them to you to reuse.

The machine is also quite expensive in comparison to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you take into account the cost of buying pods. If you're already a pod coffee lover, it's a small price to pay for consistently barista-style results. You can also add the Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for lattes and cappuccinos. It's also offered in bundles that contain a few sample packs of the Nespresso capsules and milk frother which could save you money in the beginning.

3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso

The majority of pod machines use a similar brewing process - you place a capsule in and press a button, and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that eschew the norm. It uses a unique system for capsules that bind them into a portafilter handle. This lets the machine make an espresso that is like you would get in a cafe, but without the hassle and mess that is typical of an espresso maker.

The X7.1 is compatible with illy MIE capsules that are made of premium coffee beans of the highest quality. Each capsule has an exact amount of espresso ground that is brewed using two stages. This creates a rich crema. The extraction is done entirely inside the capsule. This means that the coffee and machine are never in contact. Clean-up is also an easy task.

This coffee pod machine comes with a Pannarello Steam Wand that can be used to make milky beverages like cappuccino or macchiato latte. The unique design of this coffee pod machine, designed by renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi is sure to make a statement in your home. 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 a bit more attention, especially when using the steam wand. This is due to the fact that air can prevent the hot water from flowing correctly making it impossible for the machine to continue functioning. If this happens, you'll have to wait a few minutes before making another coffee to allow the excess air to let go.

4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x

The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most sought-after pod coffee machines available on the market. Its compact dimensions, attractive price tag and ease of use are among the major selling points. Does this machine meet the high standards set forth by its parent company's standards? We went for a spin at The Coffee Bazaar HQ to discover.

The Vivy is a simple pod coffee maker, but it does not sacrifice the performance. It makes drinks with the touch of a single button, reading a bespoke barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it needs to create. It also sets the correct amount for water and froth in every drink using Intellibrew technology to ensure the best results every time.

This makes it easy to operate - just insert the desired T DISC, then select the desired drink size. The Vivy offers 40 different drinks and a milk jug for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes only three seconds to warm and automatically shuts off after five minutes to conserve energy.

The descaler has been designed to slot into the side of your machine. There are separate instructions for this, but the process is easy and quick.

If you register your Vivy, you will receive a discount on your first T-DISCs order, and also specific offers, tips and advice. You'll also be in a position to monitor the health of your machine and know how much water it's used. Registering your machine is an excellent idea immediately after you purchase it.

5. illycaffe B-Pod

illycaffe is a market leader in the world of coffee and an famous heritage brand, is a global leader. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still operated by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned business has a history of innovation and is famous for its premium espresso made from nine different types of Arabica bean.

The company is also committed to sustainability and has a variety of initiatives that help to safeguard the environment and ensure that their products are as eco green as they can. They have focused on efficiency in energy use, and are determined to reduce their carbon footprint, and also the use of renewable energies. They also promote the practice of regenerative agriculture and are focusing on improving their water resources.

illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their determination to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in programs to provide training and professional development for their employees, and they have also developed a "university of coffee" that helps to educate both professionals and consumers on how to make the best pod coffee machine possible cup of coffee.

illycaffe is also the first Italian company to be awarded the B Corp certification. This certification is given to international companies that are committed to ethics and a purpose. The company also introduced its first line of Nespresso compatible pods and has been named one of the world's most ethical companies over the last seven years. The company is committed to showing how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and people. They believe that everyone has a responsibility to take on.