One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market

Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for the watery, weak drinks. Fortunately, the best pods are more than that.

The illy Bruvi makes use of B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It has a variety of capsule options and is easy to personalize.

1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System

One of the best pod coffee makers on the market, this single-serve and drip model has the best combination of features in our test. It has a 12-cup glass carafe side that brews traditional grounds, and a single-serve side that can accept any kind of K-Cup, Keurig-like or reusable pod. The carafe has a programmable clock as well as a "strong setting" that produces more flavor. It also has a foldaway, built-in frother to make cappuccinos and lattes.

The single-serve side brews up to 18 ounces per hour with any size of K-Cup, reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista filter cup, or ground coffee (a separate water tank is provided). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system, which analyzes the barcode on each pod to adjust the machine settings for an ideal cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's more efficient in brewing full-pots than a leading Keurig. It also has advanced features, like a 24 hour start, brew intensity control, and automatic shutoff.

The device is easy to use despite the fact it comes with two operating modes. It also cleans up easily. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles are easily removable to clean, and the filter can be washed in the sink. It's quite bulky and heavy for counter space, but it's a great alternative for anyone looking to enjoy the convenience of pods as well as the versatility of ground coffee.

This low-cost cold brew machine makes a smooth and delicious cup. It can create 12 cups at a time and has a programmable clock as well as an integrated milk frother as well as an reusable coffee filter. It comes with a large reservoir of water, as well as a glass carafe to hold hot brews.

2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next

This is a great option if you are already a fan of pod coffee machines and are looking to upgrade your current Keurig style machine. Nespresso's latest espresso maker is sleek, fast and can make five different drinks on one chassis. It's currently on sale which makes it a great choice for any budget.

The VertuoLine Next heats up very quickly and is incredibly easy to use, with a single button that automatically adjusts to the kind of capsule you're using. It makes use of patented Nespresso capsules with a barcode on them that informs the machine of what kind of espresso or coffee it is, ensuring that you get the right temperature and pressure for each drink. The capsules spin fast when they are brewing to create the foam, also known as crema. It is typical of traditional Italian style espresso.

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

The machine is also quite expensive when compared to other pod coffee machines, particularly when you consider the cost of buying pods. If you're already a coffee pod fan, this is an affordable price pod coffee maker to be paid for consistently barista-like results. You can also add an Nespresso Aeroccino+ milk frother to the machine for cappuccinos and lattes. It is also available in bundles, which include a few samples of the Nespresso pods as well as a coffee maker. This will save you money up front.

3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso

When it is time to brew, the majority of pod machines follow the same pattern - a capsule goes in the top and then you press a button and the coffee oozes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of those machines that defies the norm. It utilizes a different mechanism for capsules, locking them into place in a portafilter-like handle. This allows the machine to make an espresso that is as good as you'd get at 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 high-quality coffee beans. Each capsule has a precise amount of espresso ground that is brewed in two stages. This results in a thick crema. The extraction happens entirely inside the capsule, meaning that the machine and the coffee do not meet and cleanup is easy.

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

This machine requires a bit more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. This is because excess air can hinder the flow of hot water, preventing the machine from functioning efficiently. If this happens, you'll need to wait a few minutes before making another coffee to allow the air to escape.

4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x

The Bosch Tassimo Vivy is one of the most sought-after pod coffee machines on the market. Its small dimensions, attractive price tag 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? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.

The Vivy is among the most simple pod coffee machines that are available, but it doesn't skimp on performance. It can make drinks with a single touch. It reads an image of a barcode on the DISC to determine what drink to make. It also sets the correct amount of the froth and water in each drink using Intellibrew Technology to produce the best results every time.

It's very easy to use - simply insert the desired T DISC, and choose the size of your drink. The Vivy has 40 different drinks, as well as a milk jug to make lattes or cappuccinos. It takes only three seconds to warm up and it has an auto-shutoff after five minutes.

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

If you sign up your Vivy, you'll get a discount on your first order of T-DISCs along with specific offers, tips and advice. You can also keep track of the status of your machine, and see how much it has used. It's a good idea to register your machine as soon as you buy it, as well.

5. illycaffe B Pod

illycaffe, a leader in the coffee market and famous heritage brand, is a global leader. Established in 1933 by Francesco Illy, the company continues to be managed by his descendants and spans the world. The family-owned business has a long history of innovation and is renowned for its premium espresso made from nine different types of Arabica bean.

The company is also committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives that help to protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco friendly as possible. They have a particular focus on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions as well as using renewable energies. They also promote Regenerative farming 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 that offer training and professional development for their employees and have developed an "university of coffee" which helps educate consumers and professionals about how to enjoy the most optimal 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 that they have a purpose. The company has also launched 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 demonstrating that sustainable quality can benefit both the environment and people and has a strong belief that it is the responsibility of everyone to do their part.