How to Choose the Best Coffee Pod Machine
A pod machine is an excellent option for those who want to have a quick and clean morning cup of coffee. But how do you pick the most effective one?
In a nod towards retro design, this appliance sports the SMEG and Lavazza branding across its front. It needs a large space on your counter and is more expensive than other models. It’s nevertheless the best compact coffee machine pod coffee maker that has the solid feel.
1. Nespresso Compatible
If you are a Nespresso lover, you’ll need to choose the right coffee maker that is compatible with capsules from this brand. You may also want to choose a model that can use other types of capsules as well, like organic and Fairtrade varieties or flavored pods with a special flavor. These models are priced similarly to the originals. Some even have built-in frothers that allow you to make a cappuccino, latte or other specialty flavoured pods.
The entry of Bruvi into the pod machine industry in 2022 was greeted by excitement. The brightly-colored device promised a variety of drinks and a more satisfying cup of coffee than any other pod machine, and pods that you could throw away without worrying about the environment.
It is a success on all three counts. This pod coffee machine is compact and affordable and yet produces an incredibly rich and robust cup of espresso each time. It’s also one of the quietest models on the market and brewer you can whip up a cup of Joe before your morning alarm rings.
The Bruvi comes with two sizes of cups that can be adjusted to match the type of drink you’re making. It has three settings to control the temperature and texture of the milk when brewing a cappuccino or lattes. It can also make hot chocolate, which is great for kids or adults who need to warm up and relax.
A sleep function that can be programmed is another feature that’s a plus. It will switch to standby mode after an hour without using. It’s also easy to clean and consumes only a small amount of water. You might want to consider a machine that has the option of a capsule holder that is removable to make emptying it easier.
There are several other accessories you can add to your coffee pod like a milk froth (unless it’s part of the model you buy). Other things to consider include the possibility of a reusable filter to use with reusable capsules, brewer a water kettle or thermometer to ensure precise temperature control and a travel mug.
2. Easy to Clean
The convenience of a coffee pod machine makes it easy to start your day with a quick, hot cup of joe. Just load a pod, switch it on, and within just a few minutes you have a freshly brewed drink. They are simple to clean and don’t need daily maintenance. They only require a water tank refill and a descaling every six months.
Keurig’s K-Cups offer the widest selection available. They include national brands like Folgers and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters as well as grocery store favorites Dunkin’ Donuts and Dunkin’ Donuts. There are even some alternatives that aren’t coffee, like hot cocoa and tea, available in K-Cup forms from various brands. You don’t have to use Keurig K-Cups to enjoy a great cup. You can also make it with filters that are reusable and made of paper or plastic and hold ground coffee, pre-loaded drippods or loose grounds of coffee.
A lot of these machines based on pods don’t produce a rich strong brew that will stand up to the most discerning palate. During our testing, we discovered that some pod coffee makers that produce watery or bitter cups of coffee. Some were difficult to use, taking up valuable counter space and running loudly.
There are some high-quality coffee makers that have the convenience and consistency of single-serve machines but without the flimsy packaging and sour taste. Some models come with a built-in frother to froth and pour your cappuccino or latte while others have an additional frother that can connect to the machine to add the perfect frothy topping to your beverage.
These newer pod machines not only provide a delicious cup of coffee however, they also address the growing concern about environmental impact associated with single-serve pods made of plastic. Both Keurig and Nespresso have made their aluminum pods more recyclable by replacing them with polypropylene and the latter now offers free capsule recycling bags that can be picked up at any of its retail outlets or UPS locations. Bruvi is a new competitor, utilizes pods that are compatible with its own brewers and are designed to break down quickly in landfills and not leave microplastics.
3. Fast Brewing
A pod coffee maker is a lifesaver for those who do not want to grind beans or boil a kettle. These fool-proof machines let you brew coffee, tea or espresso in just a few minutes, without having to clean up. These machines produce more waste than drip-style counterparts, however they are still much more simple to use than brewing whole beans in a French Press or Pour-Over.
In late 2022, a startup based in Los Angeles called Bruvi introduced its BV-01 coffee pod machine. It promised to produce a better tasting single-serve joe, offer more beverage options than the majority of pod-based machines, and provide reusable capsules that could be used up without breaking down into microplastics. The Brewer Bruvi is more expensive than Keurig and Nespresso models but it’s a great all-around device that is like the beginning of a new age for pod coffee.
When purchasing a coffee pod machine the size of the serving is a major factor to consider. Some models can produce single-serve cups with different sizes, ranging from large travel mugs, to 2-ounce espresso shots. Certain machines can brew entire pots of coffee. Some even have a milk frother to add an incredibly creamy cappuccino or latte.
The design of a coffee pod maker is a different aspect to take into consideration. The color and the finish of the machine along with the location and size of the reservoir and pod compartment will determine the way your machine appears on your counter. Some brands offer different colored pods, so you can change your drink according to the season or mood.
Pod coffee makers are typically compact and occupy less space than single-serve or drip brewers. While a smaller footprint might be desirable, it’s crucial that your device is able to brew multiple cups between refills. For the average household, a water tank that is at least 40 ounces should suffice for the majority of pod coffee makers.
4. Variety of Drinks
The pod machines are extremely versatile and, based on the brand you select they can make a variety of drinks. Certain brands, like the popular Keurig systems and Sage’s Nespresso collab, can make up to four different drink sizes while others only offer one or two options. Certain machines can also prepare hot cocoa, tea and cold drinks.
Some pod coffee machines have built-in milk frothers which can make lattes, cappuccinos and other frothy drinks. Others, however, need a separate or conjoined milk jug for this purpose. The best pod coffee makers that milk froth have the most precise control and user-friendliness as well as a sleek design that fits into any kitchen.
The Grind One makes a great example. It’s minimalist design is a far cry form the curves seen on other pod coffee machines. It’s smaller than many Keurigs, making it ideal for small kitchens and dorms. The water tank is simple to access and can hold up to 40 pounds. The machine will automatically place used capsules in a container attached to the machine. Other than maintaining the reservoir and descaling it every six months, no maintenance is required.
This model is more expensive than some other models we’ve reviewed however, it offers a superior experience. The brushed stainless steel look is sleek and modern, while the drip tray can be adjusted to accommodate tall or short espresso cups as well as travel mugs. It can be used to make up to five different drinks due to a barcode system which scans each compatible pod to automatically adjust its settings.
This is the best-looking machine we’ve test. It also makes an excellent tasting brew, especially for an automatic. We didn’t award this machine the top spot since it’s not able to milk froth. Its only option is to use dried, skimmed milk capsules that do not taste as good as freshly squeezed milk. If it had a built-in milk frother then we’d be inclined to consider this pod machine to be the top spot.