These devices are especially great for people with only one or two coffee drinkers in their household, or if you’re an espresso drinker, these offer a great alternative to going to the local – saving you money in the end.  There is a wide selection of machines when it comes to finding the perfect brewer for your household.  Every machine is unique in itself, and one may cater better to your lifestyle than another.

Keeping in mind that this is the cream of the crop of information, here’s a guide to send you off in the right direction:

TASSIMO T46 – $149.99

The Tassimo machines are known for their slogan – “The barcode brews it better.”  This coffee brewer allows you to brew espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes via their coffee pods, “T-Discs.”  Bosch, the maker of the Tassimo, boasts the machine’s ability to freshly prepare coffee shop style beverages – one cup at a time – at the touch of a button.

“The unique, patented Tassimo system provides an unparalleled variety of beverages at the touch of a button.”  Essentially, when the T-Disc is inserted, the Tassimo machine reads the unique bar code printed on the label.  The code specifies the size, the brewing time and the optimum temperature required for making the perfect drink.  The beverage brews inside the T DISC and flows directly from the T DISC into the cup.

KEURIG PLATINUM EDITION – $219.99

The Keurig has been one of the more popular coffee brewers that I have come across.  They’re readily available, and I would say they have one of the widest selections of coffee pods – or “K-Cups” – on the market today.  I’m a huge fan of the choices – some including ‘White Chocolate Mint,’ and ‘Khalua’ – giving your house guests the opportunity to pick the beverage they would like.

I find the Keurig machines one of the easiest to clean; and I especially love the ability to use your own favourite coffee blend via their “My K-Cup.”  Keurig’s Platinum edition allows you to program auto-on/off times, as well as choose from five beverage sizes – features the Tassimo lack.

Unlike the Tassimo brewer, the Keurig’s K-Cups don’t have the capability to brew lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso-based drinks.  In the fall, Keurig is coming out with a new machine – called the “Vue” – to offer that functionality for espresso drinkers.

NESPRESSO – DE’LONGHI LATTISSIMA PLUS – $399.99

The Nespresso machines are in my opinion one of the most aesthetically pleasing beverage brewers.  The Italian producers have had a long history of producing high-quality household appliances, and creating full-bodied espresso-based beverages.

“De’Longhi’s patented milk frothing system is already standard in the fully automatic espresso makers. The system was optimized for the Lattissima Plus: The optimized steam jet technology and the new milk/steam ratio create fewer bubbles. The density of the milk froth makes it bond perfectly with the coffee and creates an even creamier froth on cappuccino and latte macchiato.”

The unit can make espresso, long coffee, cappuccino or latte macchiato at the touch of a button.  The Lattissima Plus is perfect for individuals who crave a quick espresso or cappuccino, from time to time.  If that is your primary purpose, this machine reins supreme compared to the Tassimo or Keurig.

FINAL THOUGHTS –
People are often questioning which single-serve brewer to invest in.  At the end of the day, they’re all great at what they do, but it all comes down to which beverage you ‘fancy’ more over the other.  If you’re into the espresso drinks, get the Nespresso; if you’re into the lattes, the Tassimo is for you; and if you’re a regular coffee consumer looking for flavoured coffee, take a look at the Keurig.

Again, keep in mind that the above is guide to send you in the right direction, and that you should still do your research before making the purchase.

If you have a single-serve brewer, which model do you own?  Share your story with other CityLine.ca readers in the comments below!

Repost from CityLine.ca