The new generation of coffee makers do unmistakably more than just blend a pot of joe. Some grind beans, others foam the milk for lattes and macchiatos, and a couple even mix iced coffees. With all that being said, we understand that you may be experiencing buyer’s paralysis. After all, there are so many choices. What if you choose the wrong one?
That is a scary prospect and why we have put together this guide. With the information we have compiled, you should be able to make an educated decision that will have you taking home the perfect coffee maker for all your caffeinated needs.
Plus, we thought we would do a little more of the leg work and put together a list of the best coffee makers out there. To help you enjoy your morning cup of java, here’s what we found out.
Coffee Maker Reviews
Comparison Chart
Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer, Comes With 6 to 12 Oz. Brew Size, K-Cup Pod Storage, and Travel Mug Friendly, Black
1. Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker
This single-serve coffee maker comes from one of the biggest names in coffee right now. Keurig has been bringing quality products designed for our convenience to the market for years.
Product Highlights
All coffee makers, no matter the size, only need a few features. These features should be combined together to give you an optimal brew, and few do it better than Keurig. With this single-serve coffee maker, they made sure to include the following features:
- Designed with a small footprint
- Crafted to be used with travel mugs
- Programmed with an auto-off feature
- Compatible with all Keurig pods
The Good
This compact coffee maker is perfect for small apartments or dorms. With a minimal footprint, it is easily stored. Though it may not give you cups upon cups of coffee, it is easy to use and will leave you with a nice warm cup of coffee in no time. Everything about this machine screams space saver. Plus it has an easy to use interface that will save you time and protect you from frustration.
The Bad
The compact nature of this unit does not allow for a lot of frills. In fact, that is one of the biggest issues with this model. There are not a lot of features that are included, and that limits its versatility of use. The other design feature that seems to cause some issues is the lightweight design. Due to its lack of weight, it is much easier to tip than other models.
Pros
- Doesn’t take much space on the counter
- Comes with an attachable pod holder
- Has a nice cord storage
- Lightweight and compact for better transport
- Doesn’t have a confusing interface
Cons
- Doesn’t have a lot of features
- Light weight makes it easier to tip
2. Black + Decker DLX1040B
Our next entry is a programmable large volume coffee maker from one of the leading brands in electronics. Black + Decker brings us this coffee maker that will leave you caffeinated the entire day.
Product Highlights
Black + Decker has been focused on bringing its customers durability and performance in electrical appliances and tools for decades. They know that even with a coffee maker, there are features that are needed to optimize the efficiency of the unit. So in order to ensure that this coffee maker does just that, they included the following features:
- Designed to brew 12 cups – ideal for large families
- Multiple programmable features – timer, clock, etc.
- Built-in non-stick warming plate
- Carafe marked for measurement
The Good
There is a lot to love about this coffee maker. It is simply designed and easy to use a model that brings with it a lot of design features that will elevate its performance.
The easy to use filter basket and auto on/off are probably the biggest advantages this coffee maker brings to your life. This will not only save time but money as well. Then when all is said and done, the cleanup is quite simple too.
The Bad
Be careful, though! There are a few issues that may cause you to reconsider making this your choice. Careful is the keyword as many have a problem with just how hot the coffee comes out when it is brewed.
Its temperature is extremely hot, which is not only dangerous but may affect the taste of the coffee itself. There is also no programmable warm feature, which means that once your coffee is cold, that’s it.
Pros
- Easy to use filter basket
- Coffee maker is simple and easy to use
- Energy efficient with auto-off feature
- Clean up is simple and quick
Cons
- Brews coffee at really hot temperatures
- Doesn’t have a warming feature
3. Cuisinart DCC-3400P1
This coffee maker is a sleek looking, stainless steel appliance that offers you a large brew capacity. Not only does it look good, but it will help you prepare for a long workday.
Product Highlights
Having a well-brewed cup of coffee in the morning is a necessity for many people. That means the design and features that are included in the coffee maker’s build have to be spot on. This model from Cuisinart accomplished this by the inclusion of these attributes:
- Designed with brew strength controls
- Fully programmable and energy-efficient
- Fitted with a self-cleaning setting
- Water view window allows for accurate filling
The Good
Though most of the coffee’s flavor comes from the bean and its grind, the machine does play a part. With this model, you will be able to craft a great cup of coffee, one that will set you up for success throughout your day.
The coffee can also be kept warm for longer than other models, and that makes this a great choice for the office. It is easy to program and comes with a reusable filter to make sure it is budget-friendly as well.
The Bad
There are some things that we should discuss before you opt for this coffee maker, as there are some issues that may cause you to reconsider.
The first is that it is difficult to pour. The spout of the carafe is shallow, which could lead to some mess. Other than that, it does produce more noise during brewing than some may like.
Pros
- Brews a great cup of coffee
- Able to keep your coffee warm for quite a while
- Programming is quick and easy to use
- Comes with a reusable filter
Cons
- Issues with noise levels
- Carafe spot offers a difficult pour
4. Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker
Mr. Coffee brings us our next coffee maker. A 12-cup model that offers a simplistic interface for ease of use may just be what you are looking for.
Product Highlights
Trying to make your coffee maker stand out in a sea of options can be challenging. One of the ways to do that is to offer features that really elevate the performance of the unit. Mr. Coffee has done that by making sure this model is built with the following:
- Built-in on/off LED light
- Programmed with a pause feature
- Designed with dual water windows for accurate fill
- Crafted with a lift & clean filter basket
- Constructed with cord storage system
The Good
There are a lot of things that we could rave about when it comes to this model, which is why we have included it on our list. But when it really comes down to it, the thing that makes it stand out is the simple to use interface. It is programmable in regards to things like brew-pause, but that is about it.
So why is this such a great coffee maker? It is designed to make sure you have an accurate and brilliant brew, plus it is easy to store and comes with a reusable filter.
The Bad
The unit does have a few drawbacks, though. For instance, the lack of an auto on/off feature could have been a useful tool for many coffee enthusiasts. The other thing that really takes away from some of the model efficiency is the brew time. This coffee maker does take a while to brew your coffee, and that could be a problem for those that are always on the go.
Pros
- Simple and efficient brewing process
- Programmed with an auto-pause feature
- LED light to indicate if on or off
- Nice cord storage built-in the machine
Cons
- Could have used an auto shut off feature
- Issues with the speed of brew
5. Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker
This is an excellent option for those households that are both on the go and stay at home. The two-way brew system will have you set no matter if you are coming or going.
Product Highlights
Having the option to brew two ways is a fun and innovative design feature that the folks at Hamilton Beach decided to include in this coffee maker’s design. They also chose to add the following features as well:
- Multiple ways to brew your coffee
- Designed to be fully programmable
- Capable of brewing single serving or full pot
- Fitted with a brew selector, warming plate and other smart features
The Good
This unit is designed to be travel mug friendly and to give you the option of brewing a single cup or an entire carafe. No matter which options you choose, you will be guaranteed a fast brew that is delicious.
Plus, even though it may seem like the use of this contraption would be difficult, it is made easier by the built-in interface that is simple to use and easy to read.
The coffee maker will also save you money as it is programmed with features that optimizes energy efficiency.
The Bad
We all want a hot cup of coffee, but there is a difference between hot and hootttt! There are some that feel that the temperature that this coffee maker brews at is a little excessive.
The only other factor that causes some concern is the fact that you have to fill it from the top. That means that in order to get it started, you will have to pull it from under the cabinet. This may make it a poor choice for those working with limited space.
Pros
- Doesn’t take long to brew
- Good temperature on the brew
- Easy to use controls
- Programmed with features to optimize energy efficiency
Cons
- Might brew at too high a temp for some
- Has to be filled from the top
Buyer’s Guide
These models are all carefully chosen using features and attributes we feel make a great coffee maker. While researching this guide, we took the time to ensure to include something for everyone.
Now that you have a few choices to consider, you may still be wondering just how you choose. For us, the best way to do that is to pay attention to your needs and some select features. The ones we used to curate our list are as follows below.
Types of Coffee Makers
Consider how much coffee you’ll be making and what sort of coffee you use. If you use grounds and ordinarily serve a large group, pick a drip maker or grind and brew maker, which highlight ground beans.
On the other hand, if you prefer making a single cup at a time, then obviously a single-serve coffee maker is the right choice for you.
In the event that your needs fluctuate, double structure coffee makers are an extraordinary decision, since they can brew single cups or an entire pot.
Serving Size
Each machine brews a specific number of cups. So remember to consider this factor. Pay attention to how much you will need to brew; if you are brewing for a whole house or office you will want to look for one that delivers 12 cups.
For a smaller crowd, you could go for fewer cups brewed in a cycle. So when looking for your coffee maker, choose the serving size that will meet your daily requirement.
Designed For
Drip-style coffee makers regularly come with a glass carafe or a treated steel carafe. Both these have their own advantages and disadvantages.
A steel carafe will keep your coffee hot for extended periods, and it has very little chance of breaking. While a glass carafe is delicate, it is easy to haul around, and you can generally check the amount of java you have left.
Filter Type
Some models will come with a filter that is reusable while others utilize a disposable paper option. Each has its pluses and minuses. The reusable option will require consistent cleaning.
On the other hand, a paper filter is disposable and offers less cleanup. Even among these two options, there are variations that you will have to choose from. So pick the filter that will give you the brew you are looking for.
Key Features
In the wake of choice, the last thing you should consider is the features that the model is designed with. You will want to look for features that fit your preference and will make your brewing experience easier. Things like auto on/off, brew settings, or brew-pause may be things you want to look for.
Simply investigate a portion of the significant highlights which will assist you with making your espresso experience increasingly agreeable and speedier.
Coffee Maker FAQs
Even with all of that information, we are sure that you still have plenty of questions. So we gathered together some of the most common questions and answered them below.
How to use a coffee maker?
Each model will have its own instructions, so make sure you read them carefully. However, even with that, the basic process goes a little something like:
Step 1
The initial step will have numerous variations depending on your coffee maker. If you have a reusable filter, you will remove the basket and fill it, and then replace it. If you are dealing with a model that uses a paper filter, then you will place the filter in the compartment. Then you will measure the grounds into that.
Step 2
All coffee makers hold a specific amount of water. You don’t have to fill it completely if you are not looking to brew a whole pot. However, you do want to make sure not to overfill. The water reservoir is where you will pour the water once you have used the carafe or pot to measure out the water.
Step 3
This will be the point where you turn the coffee maker on or program it to start when you want it to brew. This will be a very model-specific process, so once again, make sure you familiarize yourself with the instruction manual.
Step 4
Now all that’s left is to pour the warm caffeinated liquid into your favorite coffee cup or travel mug and enjoy.
What to put under the coffee maker?
There are a lot of options when it comes to what to put under your coffee maker. You can, of course, just leave it on the countertop. But if you want to use something under it, you can use a tray or glass to make it a nicer presentation. You will be okay using anything that is heat resistant.
How often to clean a coffee maker?
You should clean your coffee maker once every month. Each time you use your unit, make sure to remove the grounds from the beans and wipe it down if you use hard water. It should be cleaned to get rid of those issues in order to keep your java tasting fresh.
How many amps does a coffee maker use?
This really depends on the model. Most average home units with an attachment will be 120v in the US and shouldn’t draw more than 5 amps. However, this may differ in international markets. So if you want to make sure it is safe to use on your circuitry, make sure to read the manual.
How often should you replace your coffee maker?
The time frame for replacing your coffee maker really depends on your level of upkeep and the models itself. Here are some of the reasons that you should replace your coffee maker.
Coffee maker begins to leak
This is a safety issue. If it leaks and any liquid finds its way to any electrical unit, you may find it will short out, which can cause a fire. On a lesser level, this makes your coffee maker a little messy.
It is too small!
Buying a coffee maker that does not meet your coffee needs could be a problem and a reason to replace it. Or maybe you started out at two cups a day, and over time, your daily requirement has grown. This is a good reason to upgrade your coffee maker.
Older model
Technology keeps advancing, and with it, the features and capabilities of your coffee maker. Another reason to replace your coffee maker is to be up to date.
Coffee tastes change
Maybe you really dug straight coffee brewed by the drip method when you started drinking coffee. However, through experimentation and growth of your taste buds, you now like a pour-over brew that is made with the perfect ground beans. This means you will need to replace your coffee maker.
Water doesn’t get hot
The necessary temperature for brewing coffee is between 195 to 205- degrees Fahrenheit. Be that as it may, numerous units don’t even reach the lower scope of this temperature range. Regardless of whether your coffee maker brews at the right temperature, the warming component may wear out with time.
Features begin to stop working
The truth is that even the best designed and built models will eventually wear out. So if your programmable features like clock or timer begin not to work properly or at all, it is time to invest in a new coffee maker.
Final Thoughts
Now you have all the information you would ever require to make you decide on what is the best coffee maker for you. Through using the carefully crafted buyer’s guide, you should be able to suss out the model that will meet your coffee needs, budgetary confinements, and taste profiles.
We have included a model for everyone in our reviews. We hope that we have helped you make this process less stressful and a lot easier.
