Best Coffee Machine Pods
Pod coffee machines make it simple to get your caffeine fix in the morning. Contrary to conventional machines, they dispense pre-packed pods of ground coffee or espresso to speed up the process.
Choose a pod coffee machine that lets you adjust the temperature and drink size. Also, check if the machine is able to accommodate the use of reusable pods.
1. Nespresso Vertuo
Nespresso is a market leader in pod-brewing, and a favourite of espresso lovers. The machines and capsules of Nespresso are highly rated in terms of quality and sustainability. The capsules are made from 80 percent recyclable materials and are completely compostable. They are made of less plastic and have a lower carbon footprint than traditional coffee bags. In addition, Nespresso partners with green-certified organizations to promote responsible farming practices and fair labour practices.
The Nespresso Vertuo line includes several machines that produce an incredibly delicious and rich cup of coffee or espresso with a great crema. The VertuoPlus X and VertuoPlus Deluxe models feature advanced features, such as automatic heating of milk as well as customizable drinks settings. These machines are easy to use and feature modern, sleek design that will look stunning in your kitchen.
Both the X and Deluxe models come with a huge water reservoir and a slender machine body. Centrifusion, a new innovative extraction technique, makes up to 7,500 rotations per minute for brewing the espresso or coffee. This process creates a smooth, consistent crema that is saturated to a great extent even in smaller cups.
Nespresso capsules are more expensive than compatible pods from third parties sold in grocery stores and online retailers. However, they provide many flavors and intensities. The company also releases limited-edition products. The machines are easy to operate and the Vertuoline is simpler than the original Nespresso that only makes espresso.
The Vertuoline also has two sizes of capsules -- the smaller espresso and gran lungo size for those who prefer shorter drinks. The larger mug capsules and alto capsules are suitable to make mug-sized drinks that require the most intensively roasted coffee. In contrast to some of the other pod machines we tested this one, the Nespresso Vertuoline also makes a excellent drip coffee.
2. Illy X7.1
This pod coffee maker is a elegant, high-end machine constructed with tough and appealing materials. It's a bit more expensive than other models we've tested, however it offers reliable, high-quality performance and has an attractive design.
The X7.1 is a patented system that reads the barcode on each capsule to identify them. It then pre-wettes, infuses and dispenses the correct amount of water in a controlled manner. This is a major benefit for those who prefer hassle-free automation. It could be a problem for those who like to alter settings and select their own brew's size or strength. The machine can serve espresso double espresso, gran lungo alto and mug drinks with a fine layer of crema.
The X7.1 isn't just a standout in terms of its brewing technology but also for other features. For instance, it's one of the only coffee machines that we have tested that has an adjustable drip tray that can be adjusted to height to optimise the dimensions and shape of the coffee mug. It also comes with a stainless steel milk jug that can be used to make lattes and cappuccinos. look at here now includes an energy-saving sleep function and pod holders that can be detached to help with cleaning.
It is compatible with most Keurig K-Cups and Nespresso capsules and Bruvi's own B-Pods. These pods are different from K-Cups and other popular pods as they are made up of ground coffee instead of a tea bag, and they have more caffeine than regular coffee. The Bruvi also comes with app compatibility and can be set up to brew at a remote location and on a schedule. It has an ice wand, which can be used to make lattes and cappuccinos frothy.
3. Grind One
The Grind One, designed in Stockholm, may be the right choice for those who don't like the plasticy Nespresso capsules or want something that's not quite as heavy. Two members of the Real Homes' team have tried it in their kitchens, and they both adore it. It's a sleek stainless steel geometric machine that looks stylish and is simple to use. You just pop a pod into the inlet, select either an lungo or express and then press the button. The flashing light indicates whether the coffee is brewing or is ready. There's no steam wand nor milk carafe, but you can add toppings to your coffee with hot or cold milk if you wish.
The best part about this machine is that it's made to work with Grind's reusable, plastic-free and home compostable coffee pods. You'll not only reduce the amount of coffee you waste, which can take hundreds of year to degrade, but the pods are also organic and contain no plastic. They cost about 50p each, and you can dispose of them into your garden compost or in your food waste bin after they're empty.
The Grind One is PS275, and you can add a bundle with a milk frother to it for an additional PS325. It's more expensive than the majority of Nespresso-branded pods however it's a sleek and well-designed versatile machine. It's also the smallest that means it doesn't need the most counter space. It comes with a raised tray that locks on to a series notches and the waste bin to adjust the height.
4. Grind 2
This pod machine is ideal for those who like having a quick cup of coffee. It can brew a short or long shot, with three different settings for temperature and extraction. Our coffee enthusiast was enthralled by its ability to create an excellent espresso. Its temperature and crema (which should have a chestnut colour that lasts until the last sip and is a cozy shade of brown) were perfect. Its sleek design, as its durable and attractive materials, helped it stand out among the other brands.
Our coffee lover also tried the Grind One to see if it was simple to use. The robust switch is pleasant to use, and offers the option of programming your favorite long or short shot. It also has an easy-to-read display. You can also choose to automatically dispense hot water alongside your coffee that helps the ground settle and enhances your drink's flavour. A milk frother is included, making this pod coffee maker an excellent all-rounder.
These machines also take out the messy elements of espresso-making including grinding or dosing and tamping of the ground beans. It also reduces the amount of items that have to be cleaned and recycled. This makes them a good option for those with a small kitchen spaces. If you do want to expand your options with a separate milk maker, a separate one can be used to make cappuccinos and lattes as well. You can also go with a manual coffee maker like the Aeropress which offers an environment-friendly design with an opulent taste that you get from a machine. However, it requires more effort from you, so we wouldn't recommend it for everyone.
5. Lavazza Idola
Unlike the more expensive Lavazza Voicy pod coffee maker, this model doesn't have a milk frother however it is perfect for those who enjoy espresso, ristretto, or caffe lungo. It's also one of the most silent machines, which means you can enjoy your morning coffee while your kids are still sleeping.
You can programme the size of your cup according to your preference and there's the option of the temperature to increase to push your brew to a higher temperature at the press of an button. You can also keep up with the maintenance schedule by receiving notifications when the capsule bin is empty or when the water tank needs to be topped up.
The machine isn't capable of frothing, but you can make cappuccinos as well as flat whites using an additional milk container. Many buyers have left positive reviews on Amazon and John Lewis. They laud the quiet operation as well as the flexible choices offered by the machine, including different lengths of brews as well as the capacity to hold capsules that are used.
There aren't many reviews from customers, but the consensus is that it is a great pod coffee maker if you prefer an easy set-up. It's more expensive compared to the Nespresso Vertuo Pop but comes with the best Lavazza pods. It is also among the quietest machines available. If you're looking to make several different coffees, we suggest that you check out one of our top choices. For more information, read our full Lavazza Idola review.