Best Coffee Machine Pods
Pod coffee machines take the pain out of getting your morning coffee fix. They are faster than traditional machines since they use pre-packaged pods to give espresso or ground coffee.
Choose a pod coffee machine that lets you adjust the temperature and cup size. Also, check if the machine can handle reused pods.
1. Nespresso Vertuo
Nespresso is the top brand in pod brewing and is a favourite among coffee lovers. The company's machines and capsules are highly rated for both quality and sustainability. The capsules are constructed of 80 percent recyclable materials and compostable. They are less plastic-based and have a smaller carbon footprint than traditional coffee bags. In addition, Nespresso partners with green-certified organizations to promote responsible farming and fair working conditions.
The Nespresso Vertuo range includes several machines which produce a rich tasty cup of coffee or espresso with a perfect crema. VertuoPlus Deluxe and VertuoPlus models have advanced features, like automatic milk heating and customizable drink settings. These machines are easy to use and have modern, sleek design that looks great in your kitchen.
Both the X and the Deluxe models have a large water reservoir as well as a slim machine body. They come with an innovative extraction technology called Centrifusion that utilizes up to 7,000 revolutions per minute to make coffee or espresso. This creates a consistent, smooth crema that is highly saturated even in smaller cups.
Nespresso capsules are more expensive than third-party compatible pods sold in supermarkets and online retailers. However, they offer many flavors and intensities. The company frequently releases limited-edition options as well. The company's machines are also extremely user-friendly, and the Vertuoline requires fewer steps than the initial Nespresso line which only produces 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 and alto capsules are great for hearty, mug-sized drinks that require a more intensely roasted coffee. The Nespresso Vertuoline makes a great cup of drip coffee, unlike some other pod machines we tried.
2. Illy X7.1
This pod coffee maker is a high-spec machine that's made from tough and attractive materials. It's a bit more expensive than other models we've tested, however it offers reliable, high-quality performance and features a beautiful design.
The X7.1 utilizes a brand new patent-pending system which reads the bespoke barcode on each capsule to identify it. It then pre-wets, infuses and dispenses the right amount of water automatically. This is a major benefit for those who prefer hassle-free automation. However, it could be a problem for those who like to tweak settings and select their own brew strength and size. The machine can serve espresso drinks, double espresso drinks, mugs, granlongo, and alto drinks, all with layers of creamy crema.
The X7.1 is not only an outstanding model 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 the ability to adjust the height of the drip tray to optimize the dimensions and shape of the coffee mug. It also includes a stainless steel milk jug for making lattes and cappuccinos. The X7.1 also includes an energy-saving sleep mode and pod holders that can be detached to simplify cleaning.
It is compatible with most Keurig K-Cups and Nespresso capsules and Bruvi's own B-Pods. These pods differ from K-Cups or other popular pods due to the fact that they contain ground coffee instead of a teabag, and contain more caffeine than regular espresso. The Bruvi is also compatible and can be programmed to brew on a schedule. It has steam wand that can be used to make cappuccinos and lattes fluffy.
3. Grind One
If you're not a fan of the plastic-y Nespresso pods or are looking for something less so bulky, the Stockholm-designed Grind One may be the ideal choice for you. Two members of Real Homes' team have used it in their kitchens and they both love it. It's a sleek stainless steel geometric machine which looks stunning and is simple to use. Simply insert the pod, select whether you want a lungo or a short express and press the button. The flashing light will inform you when it's done, and then the coffee starts coming out. There's no steam wand or milk carafe. However, you can top your coffee with hot or cold milk however you'd like.
This machine is designed to work with Grind’s own compostable, recyclable and reusable pods. Not only will you cut down on the amount of coffee you waste, which can take hundreds of year to degrade, but the pods are also organic and have no plastic. They cost about 50p each, and you can dump them into your food waste bin or garden compost once they're empty.
previous and you can get it with a bundle that includes milk frothers for an additional PS325. It's more expensive than a lot of Nespresso-branded pods, but it's a stylish well-designed, well-constructed, and versatile machine. It's also the smallest the bunch so it doesn't require any counter space, and it comes with a raised drip tray that connects to the sides of the waste bin for height adjustment.
4. Grind 2
This pod maker is ideal for those who enjoy an espresso-like coffee in a snap. It can be used to brew a short shot or a longer shot, with three different temperature and extraction settings. Its ability to make a fantastic espresso impressed our coffee enthusiast. Its crema (which should be a cozy chestnut colour and last until the final sip) and temperature were spot on. Its sleek style and durable appealing materials also helped it stand out from the competition.
Our coffee lover also tried the Grind One to see if it was user-friendly. The heavy-duty switch is enjoyable to use and comes with the option of programming your preferred short or long shot. It also features an easy-to-read LCD. You can also choose to automatically pour a shot of hot water with the espresso, which helps the grounds settle and improves the taste of your drink. A milk frother is included, making this pod coffee maker an ideal all-rounder.
These machines also take out the messy elements of espresso-making including grinding dosing, tamping, and dosing of the beans. This means that there are fewer items to be cleaned and recycled which makes them a better option for those who don't have much kitchen space. If you want to broaden your options, a separate milk frother will allow you to make cappuccinos and lattes too. You can also go with a manual press such as the Aeropress that has a smaller carbon footprint and a richer flavor than a machine. It does require more work, which means it's not for everyone.
5. Lavazza Idola
This model isn't as expensive as the Lavazza Voicy pod machine, but it's perfect for those who love espresso, ristretto, or caffe longo. It is also one of most quiet machines, meaning you can sip your morning coffee while your kids are still sleeping.
You can program a cup size to suit your preferences and there's also the option of an increase in temperature to push your brew through at the touch of a button. It's easy to stay on top of maintenance too with alerts to let you know when the capsule bin requires emptying or the water tank is empty.
The machine doesn't do any frothing, but you can make cappuccinos as well as flat whites by using separate milk containers. Many buyers have left positive reviews on Amazon and John Lewis. They praise the machine's versatility and quiet operation. various lengths of brews.
While there's not a huge number of customer reviews however, the general consensus is that this is a great value pod coffee maker for those who prefer an easy setup. It's more expensive than the Nespresso Vertuo Pop but comes with the best Lavazza pods. It is also among the quietest machines available. If you want to make various coffees, we suggest that you look at one of our top alternatives. For more information, read our full Lavazza Idola review.