Best Coffee Machine Pods
Pod coffee machines can make it easier for getting your morning caffeine fix. In contrast to traditional machines they can dispense pre-packed pods of ground coffee or espresso to make the process faster.
For the best pod coffee machine, select one that offers the most options to adjust the size of the drink and temperatures. Also, check if the machine can accommodate reused pods.
1. Nespresso Vertuo
Nespresso is the leader in pod brewing and a favourite among coffee fans. The capsules and machines of the company are highly rated for quality and sustainability. The capsules are made of 80 percent recyclable materials and are fully compostable. They also contain less plastic than traditional coffee bags and have a a lower carbon footprint. Nespresso also partners with green-certified organizations to encourage fair labor practices and responsible farming practices.
The Nespresso Vertuo line includes several machines that make an incredibly delicious and rich cup of coffee or espresso with a good crema. VertuoPlus Deluxe and VertuoPlus models have advanced features, including automatic milk heating and customizable drinks settings. They are simple to use and feature a sleek design that looks stunning on your kitchen counter.
Full Review and the Deluxe model feature a large reservoir and a slim machine body. They are equipped with a revolutionary new extraction technology known as Centrifusion that uses up to 7,000 revolutions per minute to make espresso or coffee. This process helps to create a consistent and smooth crema with a high degree of saturation even in smaller cups.
Nespresso capsules are more expensive than compatible pods from third parties sold in grocery stores and online retailers. However, they are able to offer a wide range of flavors and intensities. The company frequently offers limited-edition items as well. The company's machines are also extremely user-friendly and the Vertuoline has fewer steps than the original Nespresso line that produces only espresso.
The Vertuoline also offers two different sizes of capsules -- the smaller espresso size and the larger lungo size for those who prefer smaller drinks. The larger mug and alto capsules are great for hearty cups that require a more intensely roasted coffee. Unlike some of the other pod machines that we have tested, the Nespresso Vertuoline also makes a good cup of drip coffee.
2. Illy X7.1
This pod coffee maker is a top-quality machine constructed from durable and attractive materials. It's a little bit more expensive than the other machines we've tested, however it offers reliable, high-quality performance and is a stylish design.
The X7.1 uses a new patented system that reads the custom barcode on each capsule to determine. It then pre-wets and infuses the right amount of water in a controlled manner. This is a major benefit for those who prefer hassle-free automation. It may frustrate users who prefer to adjust settings and select their own brew size and strength. The machine is able to serve espresso double espresso, gran lungo mug and alto drinks with a silky layer of crema.
The X7.1 is not only an outstanding model in terms of its brewing technology, but it also has other features. For instance, it is one of the only coffee machines that we have tested that has a height-adjustable drip tray to optimise the dimensions and shape of the coffee mug. It also comes with a stainless-steel milk jug to make cappuccinos and lattes. The X7.1 includes an energy-saving sleeping mode and a detachable holder for pods that makes cleaning simpler.
It's compatible with the majority of Keurig K-Cups and Nespresso capsules and Bruvi's own B-Pods. These pods are different from K-Cups and other popular pods since they are made of ground coffee instead of a tea bag and they contain more caffeine than regular coffee. The Bruvi is also app compatible and can be programmed to brew according to a set schedule. It has steam wand that can be used to make cappuccinos and lattes frosty.
3. Grind One
If you're not a fan of the plastic-y Nespresso pods or you're looking for something that isn't too bulky, then the Stockholm-designed Grind One may be the best option for you. Two members of the Real Homes team have been trying it out in their kitchens and both are incredibly pleased with it. It's a sleek stainless-steel geometric machine, which looks stunning and is easy to use. Simply place the pod, select whether you want a lungo or a short express, and press the button. The light flashes to indicate whether the coffee is brewing or is ready. There's no milk carafe or steam wand. However, you can add cold or hot milk to your coffee as you'd like.
The best part about this machine is that it's designed to work with Grind's own recyclable, plastic-free and compostable coffee pods. You'll not only reduce your coffee waste which could take years to degrade, but the pods are also organic and have no plastic. They cost around 50p each, and you can dump them into your food waste bin or garden compost once they're empty.
The Grind One is PS275, and you can buy the milk frother to it for an additional PS325. It's more expensive than many of Nespresso-branded pod machines however it's a sleek and well-designed versatile machine. It's also the most compact of the bunch, which means it doesn't require too much countertop space, and it also has an elevated drip tray that is secured to a series of notches alongside the waste bin to allow height adjustment.
4. Grind 2
This pod machine is ideal for those who like a quick cup of coffee. It can brew a short or long shot, and has three different settings for temperature and extraction. Its ability to create a wonderful espresso impressed our coffee enthusiast. Its crema (which should be a cosy chestnut color and last until the last sip) and temperature were spot on. Its elegant design, as well its strong and attractive materials, helped it stand out among the crowd.
Our coffee expert also tried the Grind One to see if it was easy to use. The heavy-duty switch is a pleasant touch and allows you to programme your preferred short or long shot, and a crisp display. You can also choose to automatically dispensing hot water alongside your coffee, which helps the ground settle and enhances the flavor of your beverage. This pod coffee maker also comes with a helpful milk frother which makes it an excellent all-rounder.
Another advantage of these machines is that they take the messiness out of espresso making, namely grinding dosing, tamping and grinding the beans that have been ground. This means that there are fewer items to be cleaned and reused and makes them a more suitable option for those with limited kitchen space. If you're looking to expand your options with a separate milk maker, a separate one will allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos as well. Alternatively, you could go with a manual coffee maker like the Aeropress that combines the benefits of a low carbon footprint and an opulent taste that machines can provide. It does require more effort, so it's not suitable for everyone.
5. Lavazza Idola
This model isn't as expensive as the Lavazza Voicy pod machine however, it's a great choice for those who like espresso coffee, ristretto, or caffe longo. It's also one of the quietest machines available so you can sip your morning cup of coffee while the kids are still asleep.
You can program a cup size that is suitable for your taste and select to increase the temperature to make the brew to go through faster with the push of the button. It's simple to stay on top of maintenance too with alerts to notify you when the capsule container needs emptying or if the water tank is empty.
The machine isn't capable of frost, but you can make cappuccinos as well as flat whites by using an additional milk container. There are a lot of positive reviews from customers on Amazon and at John Lewis. They are pleased with the quiet operation and various options offered by the machine, such as different lengths of brews and a good capacity for capsules that have been used.
Although there isn't a large number of customer reviews however, the general consensus is that this is an excellent value pod coffee maker for those who like an easy set-up. It's more expensive than the Nespresso Vertuo Pop, but it comes with delicious tasting Lavazza pods and is one of the quietest machines on the market. If you're looking to make various coffees, we suggest that you look at one of our top choices. For more information, read our full Lavazza Idola review.