One of the Best Pod Coffee Makers on the Market

Pod coffee machines have an unfair reputation for watery, under-strength drinks. The best pods are more than just that.

The illy Bruvi uses B-Pods instead of the dreaded K-Cups or Nespresso pods. It offers a variety of capsules and is easy to customise.

1. Cuisinart DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System

This single-serve drip coffee maker has the most impressive features of the models 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 is programmable with a clock as well as an "strong setting" that gives you more flavor. It has a fold-away frother that is built into the carafe to make lattes and capspuccinos.

The single-serve version can brew up to 18 ounces of coffee at a time using any size K-Cup or the reusable Cuisinart HomeBarista cup (a separate reservoir for water is included). It uses Nespresso's VertuoLine capsule system that scans the barcode of each pod to adjust the machine's settings to make a perfect cup every time. With its Extreme Brew Technology, it's faster at brewing full pots than Keurig's top-rated. It also comes with advanced features, like a 24 hour start, brew intensity controls and automatic shutoff.

It's easy to use, despite having two operating modes, and the clean-up is relatively painless. The pod adapter that is reusable and needles are easily removed for cleaning and the mesh filter is washable in your sink. It's a bit heavy 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 simple cold brew maker is a budget-friendly option that provides an incredibly smooth and delicious cup. It has a programmable timer as well as a built-in milk maker and a filter that can be reused, 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 beverages.

2. Nespresso VertuoLine Next

This is a great option to consider if you're already a fan of pod coffee machines but want to upgrade your current Keurig model. Nespresso's new espresso machine is stylish, quick and has the ability to create five different drinks from one sleek, compact machine. It's available for sale right now which makes it a great choice for those with a tight budget.

The VertuoLine next heats up quickly and is simple to use, with an automatic button that adjusts to the type capsule you're using. It utilizes patented Nespresso pods with barcodes that inform the machine which type of coffee or espresso is being used. This ensures you have the right temperature and water pressure for every drink. The pods also spin rapidly when brewing, creating a decadent layer of foam, referred to as crema, that is typically found on traditional Italian style espresso.

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

The machine is expensive when contrasted with other pod machines in particular when you consider the cost of the pods. If you're already a pod-coffee lover, it's a small price to pay for consistently barista-like results. You can also add a Nespresso Aeroccino+ Milk Frother to your machine to make lattes or cappuccinos. It's also available in bundles that contain a few samples of Nespresso capsules and milk frothers which could save you money in the beginning.

3. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso

The majority of pod machines use the same brewing process: you insert a capsule and press a button, and the coffee comes out. Illy X7.1 Iperespresso is one of the machines that defy the norm. It uses a unique system for capsules that lock them into a portafilter handle. This allows the machine to make an espresso that is like you would get at a cafe, however without the hassle and mess of a traditional espresso maker.

The X7.1 is compatible only with Illy MIE pods that are made from top-quality, high-end beans. Each capsule has an exact amount of espresso ground, which is then brewed using a special two-stage process to produce a thick and rich crema. The extraction is done entirely inside the capsule. This means that the machine and coffee are not in contact. Cleaning up is easy.

This coffee pod machine also comes with a Pannarello steam wand for making milky drinks, such as cappuccino or macchiato latte. Its unique design, created by the renowned Italian architect Luca Trazzi, is sure to be a standout in your kitchen. Its slim, round forms and soft-touch buttons recall the classic Italian espresso coffee makers of the '60s, while seamlessly integrating advanced technology.

This machine requires more attention, particularly when using the steam wand. The reason for this is that too much air can block the hot water from flowing correctly and stop the machine from functioning. You will need to wait some time before making another cup of coffee in order to let the air escape.

4. Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 TAS 140x

The Bosch Tassimo Vivy has become one of the most popular coffee machines on the market. The small dimensions as well as the attractive pricing and the ease of use are important selling points. Does this little machine meet the high standards set by its parent company's standards? We tried it out at The Coffee Bazaar headquarters.

The Vivy is a simple pod coffee machine, but it does not sacrifice its performance. It can make drinks with the push of a button, analyzing a personalised barcode on each T DISC to know which drink it has to make. It also determines the right amount of the froth and water in each drink by using Intellibrew technology to ensure 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 that can be used for making cappuccinos or lattes. It takes just three seconds to heat and shuts off automatically after five minutes.

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

If you sign up for your Vivy, you'll receive a discount for your first order of T-DISCs and also personalized offers, tips and recommendations. You can also monitor the status of your machine, and check how much it's been used. It is a good idea to register your machine when you purchase it, as well.

5. Illycaffe B-Pod

illycaffe is a well-known brand with a long history and is a leader in the coffee industry. The company was established in 1933 by Francesco Illy and is still run by his descendants. It spans the globe. The family-owned and operated business has a long track record of embracing new technologies within the field, and is renowned for its top quality espresso that is made from 9 different types of Arabica beans.

The company is also committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives that help protect the environment and ensure that their products are as eco green as they can. They have concentrated on energy efficiency and are committed to reducing emissions and utilizing renewable energy sources. They also have worked to promote regenerative farming, and are focusing on enhancing their water resources.

Illycaffe's commitment to sustainability is matched by their desire to assist their employees in achieving success. They have invested in training programs for their employees and created an "university" of coffee to educate consumers coffee capsule machine and professionals alike on how to make the most delicious cup of coffee.

In addition to this, illycaffe recently became the first Italian company to obtain B-Corp certification. This is an international certification that recognizes companies that prioritize ethics and a sense of mission. The company has also launched their first line of Nespresso compatible pods. They have also been named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the last seven years. The company is committed to demonstrating how sustainable quality can benefit the environment and for people as well, and they have an unshakeable belief that it is up to everyone to play their part.