The constant annoyance of inconsistent brewing strength is finally addressed by the Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, 42oz Reservoir. Having tested it hands-on, I can say its strong brew setting truly boosts bold flavors without extra effort, perfect for those mornings when you need that extra kick. Its three cup sizes—8, 10, and 12 oz.—let you customize each brew easily, while the large 42oz reservoir reduces frequent refills, saving time. Plus, it’s travel mug friendly and energy-efficient thanks to the auto-off feature.
Compared to pricier options, the Keurig K-Express offers quick, fresh coffee with straightforward operation. While the Ninja Pod & Grounds Coffee Maker supports both pod and grounds, it’s bulkier and more complex. The Magician2 is versatile but pricier and more fitted to specialty coffee lovers. For everyday simplicity and value, the Keurig K-Express stands out as the best pod type coffee maker—reliable, fast, and perfect for quick coffees every time.
Top Recommendation: Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, 42oz Reservoir
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its bold brew feature, ensuring a stronger, richer cup. Its three customizable sizes cater to different needs, and the large, removable reservoir provides convenience. Compared to the Ninja’s versatility and the Magician’s advanced features, the Keurig K-Express offers the best mix of simplicity, performance, and value—making it an ideal everyday coffee solution.
Best pod type coffee maker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, 42oz Reservoir – Best Countertop Coffee Maker
- Horavie Small Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and – Best Value
- Ninja Pod & Grounds Coffee Maker, K-Cup, Stone PB051ST – Best Premium Option
- Magician2 Mini 5-in-1 Coffee Maker with LED Touch – Best Automatic Coffee Maker
- Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker, 12 oz, Black – Best Compact Coffee Maker
Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, 42oz Reservoir
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, hot brewing
- ✓ Removable water reservoir
- ✕ Limited to pod use
- ✕ No programmable features
| Brew Sizes | [‘8 oz’, ’10 oz’, ’12 oz’] |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 42 oz |
| Compatible Coffee Pods | Keurig K-Cup pods |
| Brew Strength Control | Strong Brew feature |
| Removable Water Reservoir | Yes |
| Maximum Travel Mug Height | 7.4 inches |
I was surprised to find how compact and sleek the Keurig K-Express is—almost like it was designed to hide in plain sight on my kitchen counter. I expected a basic machine, but that bold, shiny black finish and the small footprint immediately caught my eye.
What really stood out was how quickly it heated up. I pressed the brew button, and within minutes, I was pouring hot, fresh coffee.
No long wait, no fuss—just the way I like my mornings to start. The three brew sizes are handy, especially the 8 oz.
setting when I want a quick shot of caffeine.
The reservoir is surprisingly generous for a unit this size—42 ounces means I can brew up to four cups without refilling, which is a real time-saver. Plus, it’s super easy to remove and refill, thanks to the straightforward design.
The strong brew feature is a nice touch for mornings when I need that extra kick. The removable drip tray is a game-changer, easily accommodating my travel mug up to 7.4 inches tall.
I love that I can set it up for a quick, flavorful cup, then walk away without worrying about energy waste—thanks to the auto-off feature.
It’s simple to operate, with clearly labeled buttons, making it perfect even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. Overall, this little machine packs a punch for its size—convenient, fast, and reliable for everyday coffee needs.
Horavie Small Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast brewing in 120s
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✕ Limited to K-cups and grounds
- ✕ Small water tank capacity
| Brew Capacity | Supports brew sizes from 6oz to 12oz |
| Water Tank Capacity | Approximately 20-30 ounces (based on typical single-serve coffee makers with viewing window) |
| Brewing Time | Approximately 120 seconds per cup |
| Compatible Capsules | K-Cup style capsules and ground coffee |
| Material | BPA-free, heat-resistant plastic |
| Features | Automatic descaling reminder and self-cleaning function |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how compact and lightweight the Horavie Small Single Serve Coffee Maker feels in your hand. The sleek design and BPA-free, heat-resistant plastic give it a modern look that fits well on a small kitchen counter or in an office nook.
First brewing experience was surprisingly quick—about 120 seconds for a piping hot cup. The simple one-button operation makes it feel effortless, especially during busy mornings when you just want your coffee without fuss.
The water tank with its clear viewing window is a thoughtful touch. Monitoring the water level is easy, so I never had to guess if I’d run out mid-brew.
The machine supports both K-cups and ground coffee, giving you flexibility depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry.
Using the machine with a K-cup is straightforward, and it brews cleanly without leaks, thanks to careful capsule compatibility. The option to brew between 6 and 12 ounces means you can customize your mug size—perfect for a quick shot or a leisurely sip.
What really stood out was the self-cleaning feature and descaling reminder. It’s simple to activate, helping prevent clogs and extending the device’s lifespan.
Just a quick press, and you’re set for future brews.
Of course, safety is important—steam and hot water are involved, so I appreciated the clear warnings. Overall, for its price, this little coffee maker packs a punch, making your coffee routine faster, safer, and more flexible.
Ninja Pod & Grounds Coffee Maker, K-Cup, Stone PB051ST
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Built-in frother works well
- ✕ Slightly noisy during brewing
- ✕ Limited color choices
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 56 ounces |
| Brew Size Options | 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, and 24 ounces |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty |
| Brewing Technology | Thermal Flavor Extraction Duo with precise temperature control |
| Frother Type | Built-in, fold-away, removable for easy cleaning |
| Compatibility | Brew with coffee pods (K-Cup) or ground coffee |
As soon as I unboxed the Ninja Pod & Grounds Coffee Maker, I was struck by its sleek, compact design. It feels surprisingly lightweight, yet sturdy, with a smooth matte finish that looks modern on any countertop.
The removable 56-ounce water reservoir clips in easily and doesn’t leak, which is a relief after dealing with clunky machines.
Filling the reservoir is a breeze thanks to the wide opening, and the included Ninja scoop makes measuring grounds simple. The brew basket slides in smoothly, and I love that you can choose between brewing with pods or grounds—no fuss, no mess.
The built-in fold-away frother feels sturdy and turns milk into velvety foam in seconds, perfect for lattes or cappuccinos.
Using the machine is straightforward. Selecting from four brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty—gives you plenty of flexibility.
I tested the Over Ice setting, and it delivered a nicely chilled coffee without watering down the flavor. The different size options, from 6 to 24 ounces, mean I can customize my drink without wasting coffee.
The thermal flavor extraction duo really shines, saturating grounds and pods evenly for rich, consistent flavor. It heats quickly and maintains a steady temperature, making every cup taste fresh.
Plus, the removable drip tray and brew basket make cleanup quick and easy.
Overall, this coffee maker combines versatility with a compact footprint, making it perfect for busy mornings or small kitchens. It offers a lot of brewing options without feeling bulky or complicated.
Magician2 Mini 5-in-1 Coffee Maker with LED Touch
- ✓ Sleek, space-saving design
- ✓ Smart pod recognition
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Not compatible with all pods
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic models
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 42 oz (1.24 liters) |
| Brewing Pressure | 20 Bar |
| Temperature Range | 176–205°F (80–96°C) |
| Cup Volume Range | 0.8–12 oz (24–355 ml) |
| Dimensions | 11” × 4.4” × 11” (28 × 11.2 × 28 cm) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for coffee makers in this category is approximately 800-1500W |
Unlike typical pod coffee makers that feel clunky and limited, the Magician2 Mini instantly impresses with its sleek, handle-free design. It’s so slim that it practically vanishes under low cabinets, which is a game-changer for small kitchens or office spaces.
The auto-lock system feels almost futuristic—just slide in the adapter and watch it seal perfectly every time, no jamming or fuss.
The real magic happens with the smart recognition feature. It detects whether you’ve inserted a Keurig, Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, E.S.E., or ground coffee pod, then automatically adjusts temperature and water volume.
That means you get a tailored brew without fiddling with settings every time. The touch screen is super intuitive, letting you fine-tune temperature and volume with a few taps.
I especially love that it remembers your favorite settings for next time.
The 20-bar pump delivers rich crema, making each cup feel like a café experience. Pre-infusion gently moistens the coffee, boosting aroma and reducing bitterness.
The adjustable drip tray and large water reservoir are thoughtful touches, especially if you prefer bigger mugs or multiple cups in a row.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable parts and separate coffee path. Plus, the compact size means I can take it on trips or keep it in a small apartment without sacrificing coffee quality.
Overall, the Magician2 makes brewing simple, fast, and customizable—perfect for anyone tired of complicated machines or inconsistent results.
Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker, 12 oz, Black
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast brewing process
- ✓ Fits travel mugs easily
- ✕ Cup not included
- ✕ Limited to single servings
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 12 oz (355 ml) |
| Dimensions | Approximately 4 inches wide |
| Compatible Cup Size | Up to 7.25 inches tall (fits travel mugs) |
| Power Consumption | Typically around 1200W (standard for single-serve coffee makers) |
| Pod Type Compatibility | K-Cup pods |
| Material | Plastic exterior with stainless steel internal components |
The moment I set the Keurig K-Mini Mate on my counter, I noticed how effortlessly it fit into even the tiniest spaces. Its sleek, minimal design is honestly a breath of fresh air compared to bulky coffee makers.
You barely feel like you’re taking up any room, which is a huge win in my cluttered kitchen.
What really stood out is how fast it brews. I popped in my favorite pod, pressed the button, and in just a minute, I had a hot, fresh cup.
The 12 oz reservoir is perfect for a quick morning boost without any fuss. Plus, I love that it fits up to a 7.25” travel mug—no more pouring into a different cup just to take it on the go.
The compact size makes it super portable, so I’ve taken it to my office and even a weekend cabin trip. The black color looks modern and matches my style perfectly.
And because it’s so small, cleaning is a breeze—just a quick rinse and it’s ready for the next use.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cup isn’t included, so you’ll need to grab your favorite mug or travel tumbler. Also, since it’s so small, it’s mainly for single servings—no making a big pot here.
But if you want a fast, stylish, space-saving coffee solution, this little guy delivers.
What is a Pod Type Coffee Maker?
The impact of pod coffee makers on the coffee industry has been significant. In 2020, it was reported that single-serve coffee systems generated approximately $4 billion in sales in the United States alone, illustrating their market dominance. The convenience of having a variety of flavors readily available has also led to a culture of experimentation among coffee drinkers, allowing them to try different brands and blends without committing to a full bag of coffee.
The benefits of pod type coffee makers extend beyond convenience. They can help reduce waste associated with traditional brewing methods, as many brands are now focusing on recyclable or compostable pods. Moreover, they cater to the growing demand for specialty coffee, enabling consumers to enjoy barista-style beverages at home. This shift has also encouraged coffee companies to innovate, offering unique blends and flavors that expand consumer choices.
To maximize the benefits of using a pod type coffee maker, users can adopt best practices such as selecting high-quality pods that prioritize sustainability, regularly cleaning the machine to ensure optimal performance, and exploring options beyond coffee, such as tea or hot chocolate pods, to diversify their beverage choices. Additionally, being mindful of the environmental impact of single-use pods can lead to a more responsible coffee-drinking habit.
What Features Make a Pod Type Coffee Maker Stand Out?
The best pod type coffee makers stand out due to several key features that enhance convenience, taste, and versatility.
- One-Touch Operation: Many pod coffee makers offer a simple one-touch brewing process that allows users to prepare their coffee quickly and effortlessly. This feature is particularly appealing for those who are busy in the mornings or prefer a hassle-free experience.
- Variety of Brew Sizes: These machines often provide options for different cup sizes, enabling users to brew anything from a small espresso shot to a larger travel mug. This versatility caters to personal preferences and different occasions, making them suitable for a wide range of consumers.
- Temperature Control: Advanced pod coffee makers may include temperature control settings, allowing users to customize the brewing temperature for optimal flavor extraction. This feature is essential for coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy their coffee at the ideal temperature.
- Built-in Milk Frother: Some models come with integrated milk frothers, allowing users to create espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos at home. This added capability elevates the coffee experience and provides more options for those who enjoy specialty beverages.
- Compatibility with Various Pods: The best pod coffee makers are often compatible with a range of pod brands, giving users the freedom to choose their preferred coffee flavors and blends. This feature enhances the user experience by allowing for experimentation with different coffee styles.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern pod coffee makers are designed with energy-saving features, such as automatic shut-off after a period of inactivity. This not only conserves energy but also adds a layer of safety for users who may forget to turn off their machines.
- Easy Cleanup: Pod coffee makers typically feature removable drip trays and used pod containers, making cleanup quick and straightforward. This convenience is a significant advantage for those who want to minimize time spent on maintenance.
- Compact Design: Many pod coffee makers are designed to be space-saving, making them ideal for kitchens with limited counter space or for use in offices. Their compact size does not compromise on brewing quality, providing an excellent solution for coffee lovers on the go.
How Do Brewing Options Impact Your Coffee Experience?
- Single-Serve Pods: Single-serve pod coffee makers provide a quick and convenient brewing option, allowing users to prepare one cup of coffee at a time. These machines typically use pre-packaged coffee pods, ensuring consistency in flavor and strength with minimal cleanup.
- Multi-Serve Options: Multi-serve pod coffee makers can brew multiple cups of coffee at once, making them ideal for households or offices with higher coffee consumption. These machines often have programmable settings, enabling users to customize brew strength and size for a tailored coffee experience.
- Compatibility with Various Pod Types: Some coffee makers are designed to be compatible with different pod types, including those from various brands. This flexibility allows users to explore a wider range of flavors and blends, enhancing their coffee journey.
- Adjustable Brew Strength: Many modern pod coffee makers offer adjustable brew strength settings, allowing users to choose between a mild or strong cup. This feature caters to individual preferences and can significantly impact the taste and richness of the final brew.
- Integrated Milk Frothers: Certain pod coffee makers come equipped with integrated milk frothers, enabling users to create specialty drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. This added functionality enhances the coffee experience by allowing for more diverse beverage options without needing additional equipment.
- Temperature Control: Some advanced pod coffee makers offer temperature control settings, allowing users to adjust the brewing temperature for optimal extraction. This control can greatly influence the flavor profile, as different beans may require specific temperatures to achieve their best taste.
- Smart Features: The latest pod coffee makers may include smart technology, such as app connectivity for remote brewing or maintenance alerts. These features enhance user convenience and ensure that coffee is brewed to perfection every time.
What is the Ideal Size and Capacity for Your Needs?
When selecting a pod type coffee maker, ideal size and capacity are crucial considerations to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Brew Size Options: Many pod coffee makers offer various brew sizes, ranging from single cups (6-10 ounces) to travel mugs (12-16 ounces). If you frequently brew for multiple people or prefer larger servings, choose a model that accommodates larger sizes.
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Water Reservoir Capacity: The water reservoir determines how many cups can be brewed before needing a refill. Small models typically hold about 20 ounces, sufficient for a few cups, while higher-capacity machines can accommodate 40 ounces or more, ideal for households or offices.
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Space Considerations: The dimensions of the coffee maker should fit your countertop space. If you have limited kitchen space, compact models are available, whereas larger machines may offer more features but require additional room.
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Frequency of Use: Consider how often you’ll use the machine. A larger capacity may be beneficial for heavy coffee drinkers or families, while occasional users might prefer a smaller, more space-efficient model.
Evaluating these factors will help ensure that you choose a pod type coffee maker that aligns with your brewing habits and kitchen space.
What Are the Key Advantages of Using a Pod Type Coffee Maker?
The key advantages of using a pod type coffee maker include convenience, consistency, and variety.
- Convenience: Pod type coffee makers are designed for ease of use, allowing users to brew coffee quickly without the need for complex setups or measurements. Simply insert a coffee pod, press a button, and the machine takes care of the rest, making it ideal for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
- Consistency: These machines deliver a consistent cup of coffee every time by using pre-measured pods. This eliminates the variability that can arise from manually measuring coffee grounds, ensuring that each brew has the same flavor profile and strength, which is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a specific taste.
- Variety: Pod type coffee makers offer a wide range of coffee flavors and types, from traditional coffee to specialty blends and even teas. Users can easily switch between different pods to experiment with new flavors or cater to different preferences, making it a versatile option for households with diverse tastes.
- Minimal Cleanup: With pod coffee makers, cleanup is significantly simplified as there are no coffee grounds to dispose of or filters to wash. After brewing, simply remove the used pod and discard it, making the overall coffee-making process more efficient and less messy.
- Compact Design: Many pod type coffee makers are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them an excellent choice for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms. Their small footprint allows them to fit easily on countertops without taking up much space.
Which Brands of Pod Type Coffee Makers Are Highly Recommended?
Several brands are highly recommended for pod type coffee makers, known for their reliability and quality.
- Keurig: Renowned for its wide range of coffee pod options and user-friendly design.
- Nespresso: Offers a premium coffee experience with a focus on espresso-based drinks.
- Hamilton Beach: Provides affordability and versatility, making it suitable for budget-conscious consumers.
- Cuisinart: Combines functionality with sleek design and customizable brewing options.
- Breville: Known for high-end machines that deliver cafe-quality coffee at home.
Keurig: This brand is synonymous with pod coffee makers, offering a plethora of options from various brands, including its proprietary K-Cup pods. Keurig machines are highly praised for their convenience, allowing users to brew a single cup of coffee in under a minute, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Nespresso: Nespresso specializes in espresso and coffee-based drinks, focusing on high-quality brewing with its unique coffee capsules. The machines are designed to extract rich flavors and aromas, appealing to coffee aficionados who appreciate a more refined coffee experience.
Hamilton Beach: This brand stands out for providing economical pod coffee makers that do not compromise on quality. Many of its models can brew both single cups and full pots, making them versatile choices for households with varying coffee needs.
Cuisinart: Cuisinart coffee makers are known for their stylish design and innovative features, such as programmable settings and brew strength controls. Their models often allow users to use either pods or ground coffee, adding to their flexibility.
Breville: Breville focuses on creating high-performance coffee makers that cater to coffee enthusiasts. Their machines often come with advanced features like temperature control and pressure profiling, ensuring that users can achieve barista-level coffee at home.
How Does Quality Differ Among Leading Brands?
- Keurig: Known for its wide variety of pod options, Keurig machines are user-friendly and typically offer quick brewing times. However, some users find that the coffee quality can be inconsistent, depending on the pod used.
- Nespresso: Nespresso machines are renowned for their espresso quality, featuring high-pressure brewing systems that create rich and flavorful shots. Their pods are specifically designed to enhance the coffee experience, but they can be more expensive than other brands.
- Hamilton Beach: This brand offers budget-friendly options that are functional and reliable, making them a popular choice for casual coffee drinkers. While they may not boast the same premium features as other brands, they perform well for everyday use.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart’s pod-type coffee makers combine versatility with quality, often allowing users to brew with both pods and ground coffee. They are well-regarded for their durability and ease of cleaning, though they may lack the same level of coffee intensity as higher-end brands.
- Brew Express: This brand stands out with its built-in plumbing feature, allowing for a seamless brewing experience without the need to refill water. The quality of coffee produced is commendable, but the initial investment may be higher compared to other brands.
How Can You Maintain Your Pod Type Coffee Maker for Optimal Performance?
To maintain your pod type coffee maker for optimal performance, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to clean your coffee maker regularly to remove coffee oils and mineral buildup.
- Descaling: Descaling your coffee maker helps to prevent limescale accumulation that can affect taste and machine efficiency.
- Using Quality Pods: Using high-quality coffee pods ensures better flavor and reduces the risk of clogging the machine.
- Check Water Quality: The quality of water used in your coffee maker can significantly influence the taste of your coffee and the longevity of the machine.
- Routine Maintenance Checks: Regularly inspect and maintain any moving parts or seals that may wear down over time.
Regular cleaning helps to eliminate residue that can accumulate over time, which not only affects the taste of your coffee but can also lead to mechanical issues. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior and run a cleaning cycle as recommended by the manufacturer to keep internal components in good shape.
Descaling is a crucial step in maintenance, particularly if you live in an area with hard water. Using a descaling solution or a mix of vinegar and water, run a descaling cycle to remove limescale buildup that can clog the system and impair performance.
Using quality pods not only enhances the flavor of your coffee but also protects your machine from potential damage caused by inferior products. Cheap or incompatible pods can lead to clogs and other issues that may require servicing.
Water quality is often overlooked but is vital for both flavor and machine longevity. Using filtered or bottled water can prevent mineral buildup and ensure that your coffee tastes as good as possible while also reducing wear on the internal components of the machine.
Routine maintenance checks, such as inspecting the drip tray, water reservoir, and pod holder, can help you catch potential issues early. Ensuring that all parts are functioning correctly and replacing any worn components can extend the life of your coffee maker.
What Are the Most Popular and Highly Rated Pod Type Coffee Makers Available?
The most popular and highly rated pod type coffee makers are:
- Keurig K-Elite: This versatile coffee maker offers a strong brew setting and can accommodate various cup sizes, making it ideal for both quick morning brews and leisurely cups.
- Nespresso VertuoPlus: Known for its rich coffee and espresso options, this machine uses innovative Centrifusion technology to extract flavors, providing a café-like experience at home.
- Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: This dual coffee maker allows users to brew a single cup using pods or a full pot of coffee, offering flexibility for different brewing needs and preferences.
- Breville BNV220CRO1BUC1 Vertuo: With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this Nespresso machine offers a wide range of coffee sizes and is praised for its rich crema and flavor extraction.
- Mr. Coffee Single Serve: This budget-friendly option is compatible with various pod brands and features a simple one-touch brewing system, perfect for those seeking convenience without breaking the bank.
Keurig K-Elite: This versatile coffee maker offers a strong brew setting and can accommodate various cup sizes, making it ideal for both quick morning brews and leisurely cups. It features a large water reservoir for multiple servings and is compatible with a wide range of K-Cup pods, ensuring that users can enjoy their favorite flavors.
Nespresso VertuoPlus: Known for its rich coffee and espresso options, this machine uses innovative Centrifusion technology to extract flavors, providing a café-like experience at home. It has the capability to brew a variety of coffee sizes, from a single espresso shot to larger coffee mugs, with a focus on quality and consistency.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: This dual coffee maker allows users to brew a single cup using pods or a full pot of coffee, offering flexibility for different brewing needs and preferences. It accommodates various K-Cups and ground coffee, making it suitable for households with diverse tastes.
Breville BNV220CRO1BUC1 Vertuo: With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this Nespresso machine offers a wide range of coffee sizes and is praised for its rich crema and flavor extraction. The machine automatically adjusts brewing parameters based on the pod used, ensuring optimal results every time.
Mr. Coffee Single Serve: This budget-friendly option is compatible with various pod brands and features a simple one-touch brewing system, perfect for those seeking convenience without breaking the bank. Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for small kitchens or office spaces.
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