Coffee pods are single-serve packages of coffee that one can use with specific coffee makers. These coffee makers and the pods that go with them make brewing a small pot of coffee fast and easy. The coffee comes out the same every time because it is pre-measured. Users can vary the strength of the coffee by varying the amount of water that they add, though generally guidelines are included with the coffee pot or coffee pods.Different coffee pod systemsThe pods for several different brands of coffee brewing systems generally are not interchangeable. This means that users must often buy their pods from the same company as the one that makes their coffee maker. There are some brands of coffee pods, however, which are designed to fit multiple brands of machines. For example, the Easy Serving Espresso Pod fits several traditional machines including Nestle's Dolce Gusto system and the A Modo Mio system.Before buying coffee pods, make sure they work with the coffee maker you own. Many brands require you to buy their specific pods. Why many people prefer coffee podsPeople generally drink coffee when they need to be productive, so it makes sense that making coffee should not take a long time. Pods streamline the brewing process. It takes only 30 second for the average pod coffee maker to brew a cup of coffee. Pods come in so many flavors that users never become tired of the same old variety. They are also easy to clean up. The user just removes the pod and throws it away, and there is no pot that requires cleaning as the coffee drips right into the mug.Origins of the coffee podThe first brand to make coffee pods was Senseo, which has sold over 10 million units in about four years. Other brands have followed suit, driving the average cost of a coffee pod down to about 20 dollars per 70 cups.Coffee pods are a great idea for those who want to brew their coffee in a hurry with little cleanup. As long as the brand of coffee maker and pod are compatible, the process is smooth and easy, and the result is a delicious cup of coffee every time.