Are Tassimo Coffee Makers Still Made?

Quick answer

• Tassimo coffee makers are still manufactured and sold, primarily in Europe.
• They are less common in the US market compared to their peak popularity.
• Bosch is the primary manufacturer of Tassimo machines.
• Tassimo uses proprietary T-Disc capsules, which can limit beverage variety.
• While not as widely available in the US, T-Discs can still be found online or in specialty stores.
• Consider your preferred beverage type and capsule availability before investing in a Tassimo system.

Buying priorities

• Capsule availability: Ensure you can easily purchase T-Discs for your preferred beverages. Availability in the US can be more limited than in Europe.
• Beverage variety: Tassimo offers a range of coffees, teas, and specialty drinks. Check if the available T-Discs align with your tastes.
• Machine footprint: Tassimo machines vary in size. Measure your counter space to ensure a good fit.
• Water tank capacity: A larger water tank means fewer refills, which is convenient for multiple servings or households.
• Ease of cleaning: Look for models with removable parts and simple descaling processes to maintain your machine.
• Brew speed: If you’re often in a hurry, consider how quickly the machine brews a cup from power-on.
• Noise level: Some machines can be louder than others during operation. This might be a factor if you live in a small space or brew early in the morning.
• Energy efficiency: Newer models might have energy-saving features like automatic shut-off.

Tassimo coffee maker feature comparison

• Brew method: All Tassimo machines use a bar code scanning system to read the T-Disc and automatically adjust brewing parameters (temperature, water volume, brew time).
• Capacity: Water tank capacities typically range from around 40 oz (1.2 liters) to 67 oz (2 liters), allowing for multiple servings before refilling.
• Temperature control: The system automatically sets the optimal brewing temperature based on the T-Disc’s barcode. User-adjustable temperature control is not a standard feature.
• Filter type: Tassimo machines do not use traditional filters. The filtration is integrated into the T-Disc capsule itself.
• Cleaning: Most models feature a removable drip tray and a descaling program. Some may have an auto-rinse function after each brew.
• Footprint: Models vary from compact designs suitable for small kitchens to larger units with more features. Check specific dimensions before purchasing.
• Pressure system: Tassimo uses a pump-based system to extract beverages, though the exact bar pressure isn’t typically highlighted for consumers.
• User interface: Some machines have simple button controls, while others might include LED indicators or even a small display for status updates.
• Adjustable cup stand: Many models include an adjustable or removable cup stand to accommodate various mug sizes.
• Automatic shut-off: A common energy-saving feature, where the machine powers down after a period of inactivity.

How to choose your Tassimo coffee maker step-by-step

1. Assess your beverage preferences:

• What to do: Think about what kinds of drinks you enjoy daily – black coffee, lattes, tea, hot chocolate.
• What “good” looks like: A clear understanding of your go-to drinks will help you confirm if Tassimo’s T-Disc selection meets your needs.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Don’t assume all single-serve systems offer the same variety. Check the current T-Disc availability for your favorite brands and types before committing to a Tassimo machine.

2. Check T-Disc availability in your area:

• What to do: Search online retailers and local supermarkets for Tassimo T-Discs.
• What “good” looks like: Readily available T-Discs at a reasonable price, ensuring you won’t struggle to find your preferred beverages.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Assuming online availability means local convenience. While many T-Discs are sold online, shipping costs or longer delivery times can add up. Verify physical store availability if that’s your preference.

3. Consider machine size and counter space:

• What to do: Measure the available space on your kitchen counter where the machine will sit, including height clearance under cabinets.
• What “good” looks like: A machine that fits comfortably without looking cramped or obstructing other appliances.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Not measuring and ending up with a machine that’s too large or too tall. Always check the dimensions listed in the product specifications.

4. Evaluate water tank capacity:

• What to do: Think about how many people will be using the machine and how frequently.
• What “good” looks like: A tank large enough to brew several cups without constant refilling, especially if you have a busy household. For example, a 67 oz tank is good for multiple users.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Underestimating daily usage, leading to frequent and annoying refills. Opt for a larger tank if you brew more than 2-3 drinks a day.

5. Review cleaning and maintenance requirements:

• What to do: Look for information on how easy the machine is to clean and descale.
• What “good” looks like: Removable, dishwasher-safe parts (like the drip tray) and a clear, simple descaling process.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Ignoring maintenance needs, which can lead to mineral buildup and affect brew quality or machine lifespan. Plan to descale every few months, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

6. Set a budget:

• What to do: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on the machine itself, and factor in the ongoing cost of T-Discs.
• What “good” looks like: A machine that meets your needs without overspending, and a sustainable cost per cup.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Focusing only on the machine’s price and forgetting the long-term cost of capsules. T-Discs can be more expensive per cup than ground coffee.

Common mistakes when using Tassimo coffee makers (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Not descaling regularly	Mineral buildup, reduced water flow, altered beverage taste, machine damage, shorter lifespan.	Follow manufacturer’s descaling instructions, typically every 2-3 months or when indicator light shows.
Using non-Tassimo capsules	Machine malfunction, poor brew quality, potential damage to the brewing mechanism.	Only use genuine Tassimo T-Discs specifically designed for the machine.
Forgetting to clean the barcode scanner	Machine can’t read T-Discs, leading to incorrect brewing or no brew at all.	Gently wipe the scanner lens with a soft, damp cloth periodically.
Overfilling the water tank	Water spills, potential electrical hazard, improper brewing due to incorrect water volume.	Always fill water to the “Max” line, never beyond.
Not emptying the drip tray	Overflowing tray, messy counter, potential for water to get into machine components.	Empty the drip tray regularly, especially after multiple brews.
Forcing a T-Disc into the holder	Damaged T-Disc, broken T-Disc holder, machine error.	Ensure the T-Disc is correctly oriented and seated without force.
Brewing without enough water	Machine stops mid-brew, incomplete beverage, potential pump strain.	Always check water level before starting a brew cycle.
Not cleaning the piercing needle	Clogging, poor water flow, weak or incomplete brews.	Refer to the manual for instructions on cleaning the piercing mechanism.
Leaving old water in the tank	Stale-tasting beverages, potential for mold or bacteria growth.	Change water daily or before each use for best taste.
Storing T-Discs improperly	Reduced freshness, damage to capsules, affecting barcode readability.	Store T-Discs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, in their original packaging.

Decision rules for Tassimo coffee makers

• If you primarily drink coffee and espresso-based drinks then a Tassimo might be a good fit because it offers a range of coffee types and specialty beverages like lattes and cappuccinos.
• If you value convenience and speed then a Tassimo is suitable because its barcode system automates brewing, making it very quick and easy to use.
• If you are concerned about ongoing capsule costs then you should compare T-Disc prices to other single-serve systems or traditional brewing because T-Discs can be more expensive per cup.
• If you want to use your own ground coffee then a Tassimo is not for you because it only accepts proprietary T-Discs and doesn’t have a reusable filter option.
• If you live in Europe then Tassimo machines and T-Discs will be widely available because it’s a popular system there.
• If you live in the US and prefer to buy capsules locally then you should verify local store availability before purchasing because T-Discs are less common in US retail.
• If you want precise control over brew temperature or extraction time then a Tassimo might not be ideal because these settings are automatically determined by the T-Disc’s barcode.
• If you frequently host guests with diverse beverage preferences then a Tassimo can be a good option because it offers a wide variety of drinks from a single machine.
• If you have limited counter space then look for a compact Tassimo model because some units are designed to be quite small.
• If environmental impact of single-use pods is a major concern then you should consider alternative brewing methods or brands with recycling programs because Tassimo T-Discs are generally single-use.

FAQ

Are Tassimo coffee makers still made by Bosch?

Yes, Bosch is the primary manufacturer of Tassimo coffee makers. They produce a range of models for the Tassimo system.

Can I use other brands of coffee pods in a Tassimo machine?

No, Tassimo machines are designed to only work with proprietary T-Disc capsules. Other brands or types of pods will not fit or function correctly.

Where can I buy Tassimo T-Discs in the US?

While less common in physical stores, Tassimo T-Discs can often be purchased online through major retailers or specialty import stores. Some larger supermarkets might also carry a limited selection.

Do Tassimo machines make espresso?

Tassimo offers T-Discs specifically labeled as “espresso” which produce a concentrated coffee beverage similar to espresso, often used as a base for lattes or cappuccinos.

How do I clean my Tassimo machine?

Regular cleaning involves emptying and washing the drip tray and water tank. Descaling is also crucial and typically involves running a descaling solution through the machine as per the manufacturer’s instructions, often indicated by a light.

What’s the difference between Tassimo and Keurig?

Tassimo uses T-Discs with barcodes that dictate brewing parameters, offering a wider range of specialty drinks like lattes with milk pods. Keurig uses K-Cups and generally focuses more on coffee and tea, with less automation for specialty milk-based drinks.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Detailed reviews of specific Tassimo machine models and their current pricing.
• In-depth comparisons of Tassimo beverage taste profiles versus other brands.
• Information on the environmental impact of T-Discs or recycling options specific to Tassimo.
• How to troubleshoot specific error codes or advanced repair guides for Tassimo machines.
• The history and evolution of the Tassimo brand and its market presence over time.