I was tired of cleaning the large coffee maker for just one cup so this is perfect and fast to clean up. Thermal Mug included keeps the coffee really hot. Brews fast and tastes good. Not so good design for the on/off switch because it doesn't light up when its on, but the brew button does, so not that big a deal. Mug is hot on the upper part to the touch so watch out. The lower half is fine, though. And there's lots of steam when it's dripping, but it's just a little water, so it doesn't bother me. Comes with it's own nylon filter so no need for paper filters. I haven't used the pods so can't comment on that part. And it's small, so much less space on the counter unlike the big coffee drip maker that I used to have. So good in tight kitchens. All in all, worth the $50 bucks.

Great to set up at night, push a button in the morning and you've got a cup ready to go. I've been using this for 11 months and not a glitch. Also, I'm a tea drinker. Just put my honey and tea bag in the cup, just as easy. Would have to say I hope this is my last one, at least there's no flimsy pot to break.