Best Pod Coffee Machines in 2022
Coffee. The smell, the warmth, the distinct taste – a good cup of coffee is what gets us through the day and helps us to unwind at the end of it. And in walks the Pod Coffee Machine. This nifty kitchen gadget is here for convenience, while still making a cup of hot java that hits the spot. Pod machines eliminate the chore of grinding coffee beans, cleaning messy filters and other slight irritations that often come with brewing up a fresh pot. With pod machines, you simply slot your pod (a small sealed capsule of ground coffee) into place and let the coffee maker do the rest! No mess and no fuss!
To ensure that you get the best fix of caffeine, we’ve rounded up a list of what we consider the best pod coffee machines by keeping quality, convenience and practical functionality in mind.
The Best Pod Coffee Machine
Bad coffee can be the bane of office life, and the quality of coffee can likely be used to measure the level of productivity in the workplace (someone just needs to do the study.) With the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker, you have a solution to this problem with our best choice for coffee makers on this list. This sleek machine fits in well in the office environment with its black aesthetic and polished surface as it dispenses sweet coffee into your cup. Unrestricted to just looks; the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker also makes the best cup of coffee you could ask for. The package comes with one water filter handle and one filter, all of which is to ensure that you’re getting the best quality of coffee possible.
Furthermore, the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker lets you brew multiple cup sizes, and the strength and potency of your coffee are totally in your hands. The Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker doesn’t compromise on quality, and no matter the size of your cup, the taste and quality of your coffee will never be besmirched. On top of that, the coffee maker has quiet brew technology, ensuring that you can make your coffee in complete silence without disturbing anyone. The quiet technology makes this an ideal product for a work environment or a home office where you have to work at night. Besides, the Keurig K-Select is very easy to use and poses little to no challenge to any user, even if you have never used the machine before. On top of this, the drip tray on this coffee maker is fantastic, and it can accommodate travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall and can even take an entire accidental brew with no problem at all. No doubt, wth a drip tray that massive, clean up isn’t stressful at all. Be sure to also check out our guide to the best manual espresso machines for more amazing products like this.
Beautiful aesthetic
Fits in well in a workplace environment
Runs quietly and effectively
Large drip tray
- BrandKeurig
- ModelK-Select
- Weight7.35 pounds
2Hamilton Beach (49976) Pod Coffee Machine
Twice as nice! Whether it’s for a quick cup on the go or a coffee date with friends, this nifty hot beverage maker gives you the option to select a single serving or to brew up a whole pot. Modern yet humble in appearance, this multi-serve pod coffee maker comes with another added bonus; use the loose coffee grounds option if you prefer a brand that does not come in a pod.
Slightly larger in size than other models, the Hamiliton Beach 49976 is perfect for a large family who has different brewing and blend preferences. Our handy guide to the best coffee grinders features more great products like this.
Two-way coffee maker for carafes and k-pods
Versatile cup rest that also acts as a storage space
Easy to use with auto turn off feature and much more
Ideal gift idea
- BrandHamilton Beach
- Model49976
- Weight6.37 pounds
3Keurig Pod Coffee Machine
If you can’t get your hands on the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker, then at least take a look at the Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker, which is also very good. The Keurig K-Cafe allows you to make the most delicious coffees, lattes, and cappuccinos, and it does this without fuss, and with style. The coffee maker is incredibly simple to use, and you only need to insert the k-pod of your choice, and with the push of a few buttons, you’re good to go. As coffee drinking is a morning ritual for a lot of people, the Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker simplifies the process in a myriad of ways. One such method is the mammoth 600-ounce water reservoir, which allows you to brew up to six cups before you need to change the water.
Therefore, this means that you could go an entire week without having to refill the reservoir, and this simple luxury uncomplicates your morning routine. Speaking of the reservoir, the process of refilling is very convenient as it is removable and easy to handle. On top of this, the Keurig K-Cafe is a brilliant machine, that heats itself and brews your coffee in just one operation discarding of the need first to heat then select cup size. It also possesses an auto-off feature that turns off the coffee maker two hours after the last brew. Furthermore, the auto-off feature is handy as it’s not only helpful for those who are forgetful but also helps to save energy. More impressive still is the brewer maintenance reminder function which alerts you when it’s time to descale your coffee maker.
Programmable auto-off feature that turns the device off after two hours
Maintenance reminder function alerts you when it’s time to descale the machine
Dishwasher compatible
Huge 600-ounce water reservoir
- BrandKeurig
- ModelK-Cafe
- Weight13.25 pounds
4Keurig K-Mini Pod Coffee Machine
In the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker, you have the cutest device ever to grace an office table. It is possible to think about this incredibly beautiful as an equivalent of baby Yoda in its cuteness factor. However, when it comes to getting the job done, the Keurig K-Mini does it efficiently. The most striking feature of this coffee maker is its small size which enables it to fit into any environment. Therefore, storage space is not a problem for this device and it doesn’t take up too much real estate on your desk or table surface. What’s more, the Keurig K-Mini is tall which allows it to accommodate large cups or travel mugs and can even hold a full accidental brew which makes clean-up so much easier. Additionally, it helps you save energy with its auto turn off feature that shuts down the machine a mere 90 seconds after the last brew.
No doubt, the Keurig K-Mini is such an amazing machine to have and can make any K-pod you like with the quality you’re used to with the larger devices. Additionally, it also shares the capability to work quietly with its larger sister products, and you can use this in an office environment without bothering anyone. The sleek design, ease of storage, and quality also make this coffee machine an excellent gift for someone special in your life. So, get this superb device, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and enjoy the goodness that only Keurig products can offer. For more cool products for coffee lovers, check out our guide to the best burr coffee grinders.
Small, compact, and can fit anywhere
Can hold large cups
Auto turn off feature shuts down the machine 90 seconds after the last brew
Produces quality coffee with each brew
- BrandKeurig
- ModelK-Mini
- Weight2 pounds
5Nespresso Pixie Espresso Pod Coffee Machine
Sleek, discreet and designed to please, the Nespresso Pixie Espresso by De’Longhi is our best choice, and for good reason. Not only is this machine compact enough to fit snugly in the smallest of kitchens, but the 19-bar high-pressure pump also ensures that each pod is released to ensure barista-style results. Heating up in only 25 seconds, this kitchen buddy will have your cuppa coffee ready in less than 2 minutes.
This cool coffee machine is a single-serve pod machine, which means that it’s only suitable if you need to make one cup of coffee at a time.
Compact and measures only 11 cm in width
Available in a variety of colours and finishings
Switches off automatically if not used within 9 minutes
Includes a 24 oz. water tank
- BrandDeLonghi
- ModelEN125S
- Weight6.04 pounds
6Keurig K55/K-Classic Pod Coffee Machine
If the strength or weakness of your coffee is one of your greatest niggles, then this machine might come in quite handy. Slightly bulkier than other designs, the Keurig K55 is a single-serve coffee machine that allows you to choose between 3 K-Cup pod sizes; 6, 8, and 10 oz. The smaller the capsule, the stronger the coffee.
To add to its versatility, this pod coffee machine is compatible with more than 500 different K-Cup pod varieties from 75 brands. With just the touch of a button, you can enjoy a hot cup of java, tea or even hot chocolate in no time! Be sure to also check out our list of the top pour over coffee makers for more great items like this.
Includes a large 48 oz. water tank
Features two water filters for cleaner tasting coffee
Switches off automatically when not in use
A descaling featureallows you to easily remove built-up calcium deposits
- BrandKeurig
- ModelK55/K-Classic
- Weight12 pounds
7Nespresso Inissia Original Pod Coffee Machine
Industrial in appearance but small in design, the Nespresso Inissia not only makes good coffee, but it’s quite the design piece too! If frothy milk and designer lattes are your thing, then you’ve just met your match. Although the Aeroccino 3 milk frother is not conveniently built into the single serve coffee maker, it is included as an added bonus feature.
Delivering up to 19 bar pressure and a heat-system that warms up to perfection in 25 seconds, this PREMIUM CHOICE model is ideal for small households who enjoy novel coffees that are prepared in no time at all. Or you can prepare the coffee for the go, and carry it in your coffee thermos.
19 bar pressure system with fast heating mechanisms
Beautiful and modern in design
A non-stick coating makes the machine easy to clean
Includes a milk frother as an added accessory
- BrandBreville
- ModelBEC150RED1AUC1
- Weight5.29 pounds
8Keurig K-Elite K Single Serve K-Cup Pod Maker
Whether you like your coffee piping hot or chilled for a sweltering summer’s day, the Keurig K-Elite K is built to please. Featuring a Strong Brew button, this machine certainly does have a way of ensuring that your coffee hits the spot while satisfying your taste buds! Auto program this machine to start brewing in conjunction with your morning alarm and within a minute from waking you’ll have a fresh hot cuppa in your hands!
While small in design, this single serve coffee maker is more than capable of handling larger cup sizes as well as travel mugs.
Fitted with a whopping 75 oz water reservoir
Press the Hot Water button for instant hot water
Brews K-cup pods in less than a minute
Features K-Elite’s Quiet Brew Technology to minimize noise
- BrandKeurig
- ModelK-Elite
- Weight6.6 pounds
9Cuisinart SS-10 Premium Single-Serve Coffeemaker
Crafted from plastic that’s made to look like cool stainless steel, the Cuisinart SS-10 flaunts a digital screen which adds to its modern appearance. Offering freedom of choice, this nifty single cup coffee maker not only uses pods to brew up a fresh cuppa, but it also comes standard with a HomeBarista Reusable Filter Cup which accommodates loose coffee grounds.
A charcoal water filter system ensures that the 72-ounce water tank is prepared to brew your coffee with the purest of water, which only adds to the great taste!
Can be programmed to automatically switch on and off
Includes aHomeBarista Reusable Filter Cup to brew loose coffee grounds
No pre-heating required
An instant rinse option for easy cleaning
- BrandCuisinart
- ModelSS-10
- Weight5 pounds
10Mueller U700 Single Serve Pod Compatible Coffee Maker
The Mueller U700 Coffee Maker is one of our favorite pod coffee makers. When it comes to making coffee, we’re all looking to make it a little easier. Let’s face it, that’s why so many people have moved over to coffee pods, instead of grinding it themselves. So, with that in mind, we’ve been looking for the pod coffee makers that are the easiest to use. The Mueller U700 fits that bill perfectly. It has just four buttons on the front – three different brew sizes and an off button. That’s it. There’s nothing else to complicate the design. Other than that, all you’ve got to do is fill the 48oz water tank and lift up the lid to insert the coffee pod. Another thing that impressed us about the Mueller U700 is the Rapid Brew technology. When you’re in a rush in the morning, this machine will be your best friend – it brews coffee rapidly and always at the right temperature.
48oz water tank
Four different brew sizes
Rapid brew technology
Simple operation
Auto shut off
Cool-touch exterior
- BrandMueller
- ModelU700
- Weight6.93 pounds
11Chulux Coffee Maker Machine
With thousands of positive reviews on Amazon, the Chulux Coffee Maker Machine is an obvious choice. It might not look like the most premium kitchen appliance on the market, thanks to the plastic body, but don’t be put off just yet. There are a lot of reasons to love this coffee maker.
First off, it’s cheap. At less than $40, this machine is considerably cheaper than the Nespresso and Keurig machines that have flooded the market. Secondly, it’s super easy to use. Just fill-up the water tank, pop your 1.0 or 2.0 pod coffee capsule in and wait for your delicious coffee.
800W heating element
Stainless steel water tank
Fits 1.0 or 2.0 pod coffee capsules
Lightweight and travel size
Available in seven colors
- BrandChulux
- ModelQF-CM803
- Weight2.92 pounds
Pod Coffee Machine Buying Guide
How We Chose Our Selection of Pod Coffee Machines
While Starbucks and other popular coffee shops hit the spot with their freshly brewed Barista coffees, we can’t deny that one starts to feel a pinch in the pocket after splurging on daily rounds of coffee just to get a fix. By purchasing a capsule coffee machine,you are making an economical choice and not only will you save a fortune in the long run, but you’ll have this convenient appliance at hand, and right in your home!
To assist you with your decision in purchasing your very own capsule coffee machine, we’ve narrowed down the options to the best 10 models currently available by rigorously reviewing and assessing each model and looking out for the following:
Quality - A quality product is made to meet and satisfy consumers’ needs while being free from defects and deficiencies. You can be assured that if a product has made it on to our list, it means that we have done a thorough quality check on each of the models. We know that quality is key!
Brand - A brand holds a reputation and we take this reputation into great consideration when making our decisions. We like to stick to brands that our renowned for their product delivery as well as their after-sale services.
Reviews - We take what people say about products seriously and like to study first-hand experiences. So, we have scoured the internet for people’s reviews and opinions on each of the pod coffee makes, and used this information to narrow down our choices.
Price - We know that when you shop, you do so according to a budget. We have rounded up a list of the best capsule coffee machines that will help you to decide on a model that fits within the price range you have in mind, without skimping on value and key features.
Features to Look for in Pod Coffee Machines
For a capsule coffee machine to satisfy your needs, it has to accommodate your lifestyle. While some have practicality in mind and simply want a machine that makes coffee, others want more of a kitchen companion that can be programmed and controlled to meet more niche requirements and preferences.
When shopping for your coffee maker, we suggest you consider and pay attention to the following key features:
Tank Size - First of all, you want to make sure that the coffee machine definitely includes a water tank, one that comes with a built-in filtration system is an added bonus. The tank size will influence how many cups you can make before having to fill the reservoir again and is a convenience factor. Larger tanks are suitable for bigger families or for homes that like to entertain.
Bar Pressure - When it comes to household coffee machines (unless it’s a Barista model) the lower the bar the better the pressure. Pressure is important in a pod coffee machine because it determines the final taste of your chosen blend. To date, 9-bars gives the better result for household brands, while higher bar pressure (usually up to 15 bars) encourages the water to move through a filter more quickly/slowly, resulting in a blend that’s either too weak/strong or on the thick and syrupy side.
Drink size - A compact appliance might be more convenient for kitchens with little countertop space, but if you’re the “grab-and-go” type, you might want to make sure that the pod coffee maker you choose can accommodate a large travel mug for your convenience. Depending on the model you choose, a pod coffee machine can accommodate anything from one cup to two cups at a time. Some of the larger models can even fill up a whole pot!
Spout size - As with cup size, you’ll want to make sure that there is, in fact, enough room below the spit for your favorite mug. A handy feature would also be if the spout can be adjusted to hang lower when using smaller espresso-type cups. This way you can avoid splashes and a creamier cup of java.
Tips When Using a Pod Coffee Machine
1. Prime your machine before use. If you’ve got some time on your hands, brew water through your machine before adding a pod. This will help to keep your machine clean and help to “rev the engine” before you make your cuppa. Plus, it’s an awesome way to warm your cup up, almost like pre-heating it.
2. Use filtered water. Many models come with a built-in filtration system, but if yours doesn’t, you might want to purchase a water filter system for your home, if you don’t already have one. Pure water helps prevent limescale and adds to a clean-tasting hot beverage.
3. Get to know your machine well. Play around with the settings and calibrate the water volume until its perfect for your desired taste.
Pod Coffee Machine FAQ
Q: What is a Pod Coffee Machine?
A: A pod coffee machine is a coffee maker that uses coffee grounds sealed in a small plastic cup, instead of using loose grounds which would be placed in a filter bag. One pod is usually only ideal for one serving, although some blend varieties can brew a whole carafe. Once your pod is inserted into the machine, the coffee maker will automatically pierce it and run the hot water through it, automatically dispensing the brew into your cup.
Q: What are the benefits of pod coffee vs normal coffee?
A: The biggest benefit is convenience. With coffee pods, you can avoid the fuss of grinding coffee and cleaning soiled filters. Coffee pod machines also brew up a cup in less than a minute and in most instances, you can set your pod machine to replicate your favorite blend each time you hit the start button. No mess, no fuss!
Q: How much should I spend on a Pod Coffee Machine?
A: If you’re on a tight budget then the good news is that you can still get a quality pod coffee maker for a good price. The machines range anywhere from $50 to $400, depending on their features, functionality and often size. Your lifestyle circumstances will be the end deciding point, for instance, how large is your household? Is auto-programming important to you? Are you looking for a machine that makes standard coffee only, or are you looking for a more Barista-style machine?
Q: What drinks can your Pod Coffee Machine make?
A: Some Pod Coffee Machines are made to make exactly that; coffee. Many models, however, are quite accommodating and can make everything from chilled coffees to hot chocolates and an assortment of teas. If you like to add a little fluff to your drink, look out for a coffee maker that comes standard with a milk frother so that you can rustle up some lattes.
Q: Are Pod Coffee Machines easy to clean?
A: Yes, in most cases. Many recent models feature parts that can be easily removed for thorough cleaning. Once cleaned you can simply click them back into place. The parts that come into contact with the coffee grounds and water are usually lined with a non-stick coating and can be wiped down with a wet cloth and a gentle detergent. You’ll also find that most of the machines are dishwasher safe too.
Sources:
- Bar Pressure - Wikipedia
- Spout Size - The Guardian