Coffee is a staple in many households and workplaces, providing a much-needed boost to start the day or a pick-me-up during a midday slump. However, not all coffee makers are created equal. Some produce weak and flavorless coffee, while others can be complicated to use and clean.
In this article, we will be discussing the best coffee makers available on the market. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a reliable and easy-to-use coffee maker, we’ve got you covered. We’ve spent hours researching and testing various models to identify the ones that produce the best coffee with minimal effort.
When purchasing a coffee maker, there are a few critical things to consider. The type of coffee maker, brewing method, capacity, and ease of use are all essential factors to keep in mind. A coffee maker that is difficult to use or clean can quickly become a hassle, while a model that doesn’t produce enough coffee can be frustrating for larger households or offices.
We’ve taken all of these factors into account when testing and reviewing the best coffee makers. So, whether you’re looking for a traditional drip coffee maker, a single-serve pod machine, or a high-end espresso maker, we’ve got the top picks for you.
Best Coffee Makers
We’ve scoured the market to bring you the best coffee makers available today. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just need a quick pick-me-up in the morning, we’ve got you covered. Our list includes a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From high-end espresso machines to affordable drip coffee makers, we’ve tested and researched them all to bring you the top picks. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you to the perfect cup of coffee.
Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer
If you’re looking for a reliable coffee maker that can brew a full carafe or a small batch, the Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer is a great option.
Pros
- The advanced boiler ensures hot, flavorful, and never-bitter coffee.
- The 24-hour delay brew feature is convenient for those who want coffee ready when they wake up.
- The adjustable warming plate keeps coffee at the perfect temperature.
Cons
- The plastic collar on the carafe can separate from the glass, causing leaks.
- The pour spout’s plastic band can be annoying to clean.
- The copper finish option may not be as durable as the stainless steel finish.
We’ve been using the Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer for a few weeks now, and it has become our go-to coffee maker. The custom brew strengths allow us to choose between classic or rich coffee, and the hotter brewing advanced boiler ensures a delicious cup every time.
The 24-hour delay brew feature is perfect for those early mornings when we want coffee ready as soon as we wake up. The adjustable warming plate keeps the coffee at the perfect temperature, and the removable water reservoir makes it easy to fill and clean.
While we love the overall design of the carafe, we have noticed that the plastic collar can separate from the glass, causing leaks. Additionally, the pour spout’s plastic band can be difficult to clean.
Overall, the Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer is a great coffee maker for those who want a reliable and customizable brewing experience. We recommend it for its advanced boiler, convenient features, and delicious coffee.
Cuisinart Coffee Maker
We highly recommend the Cuisinart Coffee Maker for coffee lovers who want hotter coffee without sacrificing taste.
Pros
- The Brew Strength Control allows you to choose between Regular or Bold coffee flavor.
- The 14 Cup Glass Carafe with decorative stainless steel handle is perfect for serving a crowd.
- The Easy-to-View Water Window ensures accurate filling.
Cons
- The machine is a bit bulky and takes up a lot of counter space.
- The coffee maker is not compatible with K-cups or pods.
- The machine can be a bit noisy during the brewing process.
We were impressed with the Cuisinart Coffee Maker’s expert coffee-making technology that ensures hotter coffee temperature without sacrificing flavor or quality. The machine is fully automatic with 24 hour programmability, self clean, 1-4 cup setting, auto-off (0-4 hours), and optional ready alert tone. The Gold-Tone Coffee Filter and Charcoal Water Filter make sure the coffee is clean and delicious.
The Brew Pause feature lets you enjoy a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle has finished, and the 60-Second Reset recalls settings and position in the brewing process in case of loss of power. The backlit LCD is easy-to-read, a ready tone can be turned on or off, and an indicator light signals when it’s time to decalcify.
Overall, the Cuisinart Coffee Maker is a great investment for coffee lovers who want a reliable, programmable machine that makes delicious, hot coffee.
Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker
If you’re looking for an affordable and compact coffee maker that makes great coffee, then the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The compact design is perfect for small spaces.
- The updated ergonomic carafe design with ounce markings makes measuring easy.
- The Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause feature allows you to grab a cup before brewing is finished.
Cons
- The lid can come loose if you open it from the wrong angle.
- The coffee may not be as hot as some people prefer.
- The lid lifts from the right side to the left to open, which may be inconvenient for left-handed users.
We recently tried out the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. Despite its small size, it’s capable of making up to 25 oz. of coffee, which is perfect for two 12-oz. cups.
One of the things we really liked about this coffee maker is its updated ergonomic carafe design with ounce markings. This makes measuring the water and coffee grounds a breeze, and the carafe is easy to pour and handle.
Another feature we appreciated is the Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause, which allows you to grab a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete. This is a great convenience for those who can’t wait for the whole pot to finish brewing.
However, there are a few downsides to this coffee maker. The lid can come loose if you open it from the wrong angle, which can be a bit frustrating. Additionally, some users may find that the coffee isn’t as hot as they prefer. Finally, the lid lifts from the right side to the left to open, which may be inconvenient for left-handed users.
Overall, we think the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker is a great choice for those who want a simple and affordable coffee maker that still delivers great-tasting coffee.
Krups Simply Brew Stainless Steel Drip Coffee Maker 10 Cup
If you want a simple and functional coffee maker, the Krups Simply Brew is a great choice.
Pros
- Large capacity: With a generous brewing capacity of 10 cups, our coffee maker is the perfect choice for a household of coffee aficionados. Enjoy more of the coffee you love.
- Pause & Brew system: Our innovative Pause & Brew system lets you sneak in a cup mid-brew, without any spills or interruptions. Coffee on demand, just the way you like it!
- Keep warm function: Automatically activated post-brew, maintaining the perfect coffee temperature for up to 2 hours – your coffee stays hot and ready to serve.
Cons
- No programmable timer: You can’t set the Krups Simply Brew to start brewing at a specific time, so you’ll have to wait for the coffee to finish brewing before you can enjoy it.
- No auto shut-off: The coffee maker doesn’t have an auto shut-off feature, so you’ll need to remember to turn it off when you’re done using it.
- No indication when the brewing is done: You’ll need to keep track of the brewing time yourself, as there’s no indication when the brewing is done.
We’ve been using the Krups Simply Brew for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with how easy it is to use. The coffee maker comes with everything you need to get started, including a reusable coffee filter, a measuring spoon, and a no-drip carafe. The on/off button is easy to use, and the Pause & Brew system is a great feature that lets you enjoy a cup of coffee mid-brew.
The coffee maker is also easy to clean, with materials that are easy to wipe down. The carafe is dishwasher safe, so cleaning up is a breeze.
Overall, we recommend the Krups Simply Brew for anyone who wants a no-fuss coffee maker that delivers great coffee every time.
Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker
We highly recommend the Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use coffee maker that can make a variety of coffeehouse-style drinks.
Pros
- The built-in frother produces silky-smooth froth for both hot and cold milk/milk alternatives.
- The 4 brew styles (Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty Brew) and 6 brew sizes (Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, Multi-Serve Travel Mug, Half Carafe, and Full Carafe) allow for a wide range of brewing options.
- The removable water reservoir and top-rack dishwasher safe parts make cleaning a breeze.
Cons
- The amount of espresso extracted can vary depending on the grind size and amount, and reprogramming may be needed when adjusting the size and amount.
- Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew.
- The single-serve feature for cups may use more coffee grounds than desired.
We were impressed with the Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker’s ability to brew anything from a single cup to a full carafe using our favorite grounds, without the need for pods. The Specialty Brew feature allows for the creation of super-rich coffee concentrates that can be used to make delicious lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and other coffeehouse-style drinks. The option to brew fresh over ice for flavorful iced coffee that’s never watered down was also a plus.
The built-in, fold-away frother produced silky-smooth froth for both hot and cold milk/milk alternatives, allowing us to create delicious coffeehouse-style drinks at home. We also appreciated the convenience of the removable water reservoir and top-rack dishwasher safe parts, which made cleaning a breeze.
However, we did notice that the amount of espresso extracted can vary depending on the grind size and amount, and reprogramming may be needed when adjusting the size and amount. Additionally, we found that too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. Finally, we noticed that the single-serve feature for cups may use more coffee grounds than desired.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use coffee maker that can make a variety of coffeehouse-style drinks.
Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker
If you’re someone who appreciates a great cup of coffee, then the Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker is a great investment.
Pros
- The Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker has six unique brewing modes that allow you to enjoy the perfect, balanced coffee exactly the way you like it.
- The Gold Cup preset mode automatically adjusts the water temperature and brew time to meet the standards set by the SCA.
- With My Brew, you can fine-tune the bloom time, flow rate, and brewing temperature to suit the particular coffee you’re using.
Cons
- The Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker is expensive.
- The initial setup requires a litmus-type test.
- The machine is loud when brewing.
The Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker is the perfect coffee maker for those who appreciate a great cup of coffee. With six unique brewing modes, you can enjoy the perfect, balanced coffee exactly the way you like it. The Gold Cup preset mode automatically adjusts the water temperature and brew time to meet the standards set by the SCA, ensuring that you get the perfect cup of coffee every time.
One of the best things about the Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker is the My Brew setting. This feature allows you to customize the parameters like bloom time, brew temperature, and flow rate to suit the particular coffee you’re using. Whether you prefer a more floral, fruity, or earthy coffee, you can fine-tune the brewing process to get the perfect cup every time.
While the Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker is expensive, it’s worth the investment if you’re someone who appreciates a great cup of coffee. The initial setup requires a litmus-type test, but once you get past that, the machine is easy to use. The only downside is that the machine is loud when brewing, so if you’re someone who likes to make coffee early in the morning without waking up the entire house, this might not be the best option for you.
Overall, we highly recommend the Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker to anyone who appreciates a great cup of coffee and is willing to make an investment to get it.
Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System
If you’re looking for a versatile coffee maker that can brew both hot and cold beverages, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System is a great option.
Pros
- The Advanced Thermal Flavor Extraction Technology with Auto-iQ ensures flavorful coffee and tea every time.
- You can brew multiple sizes ranging from a single cup to a full carafe.
- The built-in frother lets you make coffeehouse-style drinks with hot or cold frothed milk.
Cons
- The thermal carafe is not dishwasher safe.
- It may take some trial and error to find the right grind size and amount for optimal espresso extraction.
- The machine is a bit bulky and takes up a fair amount of counter space.
We’ve been using the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its versatility and ease of use. Whether we’re in the mood for hot coffee, iced tea, or a frothy latte, this machine delivers.
One of the standout features of this coffee maker is the Auto-iQ technology, which ensures that each brew is optimized for maximum flavor extraction. We’ve found that this results in consistently delicious coffee and tea, no matter the size or style of the brew.
Another highlight of the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System is the built-in frother, which lets us easily create frothy milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks. We appreciate that we can use either hot or cold milk, depending on our mood.
Of course, no coffee maker is perfect, and the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System is no exception. We’ve found that the thermal carafe is a bit finicky to clean, and we wish it were dishwasher safe. Additionally, it can take some experimentation to find the right grind size and amount for optimal espresso extraction.
Despite these minor drawbacks, we’re happy with our purchase of the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System. It’s a versatile and reliable coffee maker that delivers great-tasting beverages every time.
Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System
If you’re looking for a versatile coffee maker that can brew single-serve espresso and coffee grounds, the Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System is a great choice.
Pros
- The Barista Plus Technology ensures that you get ultra-flavorful espresso with a silky-smooth crema by brewing at the optimal temperature and pressure.
- The built-in, fold-away frother allows you to create espresso-based cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and more.
- The adjustable cup tray can be matched to your needs whether you’re making a single-espresso shot or brewing into an 8-in travel mug.
Cons
- Espresso capsules are sold separately.
- The espresso pods may not puncture at the foil end.
- The used capsule storage bin holds up to 20 capsules for easy recycling.
We’ve been using the Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The Barista Plus Technology ensures that the espresso is ultra-flavorful with a silky-smooth crema by brewing at the optimal temperature and pressure. The built-in, fold-away frother is a great feature that allows us to create espresso-based cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and more.
The adjustable cup tray can be matched to our needs whether we’re making a single-espresso shot or brewing into an 8-in travel mug. The coffee side of the machine is easy to use with multiple settings for regular, rich, over ice, and sizes from one up to 12 cups. We also love the convenience of the Delay Brew, Keep Warm, and Clean functions.
However, there are a few downsides to this machine. Espresso capsules are sold separately, which can add up over time. The espresso pods may not puncture at the foil end, which can be frustrating. The used capsule storage bin holds up to 20 capsules for easy recycling, but it fills up quickly and needs to be emptied frequently.
Overall, we would recommend the Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System to anyone looking for a versatile coffee maker that can brew single-serve espresso and coffee grounds. It’s a great choice for those who want to create coffeehouse drinks at home.
Calphalon Coffee Maker
If you’re looking for a coffee maker that combines functionality and style, the Calphalon 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker might just be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The coffee maker is designed to brew coffee within the optimal temperature range, ensuring maximum flavor extraction.
- The enlarged showerhead uniformly disperses water and saturates coffee grounds for optimal flavor extraction.
- The warming plate has three heat settings that can be customized according to your preference.
Cons
- The plastic circle around the warming plate may crack easily.
- The carafe is difficult to clean and may leave a small amount of liquid behind.
- The machine may not last as long as other coffee makers on the market.
We recently tried out the Calphalon Coffee Maker and were impressed with its performance. The machine is fully programmable, which means you can program brewing ahead of time with the Brew Later feature. You can also choose when your machine turns off with the Auto-Off Timer Selector.
The coffee maker is designed to brew coffee within the optimal temperature range, ensuring maximum flavor extraction. The enlarged showerhead uniformly disperses water and saturates coffee grounds for optimal flavor extraction. We found that this feature really made a difference in the taste of our coffee.
The warming plate has three heat settings that can be customized according to your preference. We appreciated the ability to adjust the temperature, as it allowed us to keep our coffee warm without burning it.
While we enjoyed using the Calphalon Coffee Maker, there were a few downsides. The plastic circle around the warming plate may crack easily, which is something to keep in mind. Additionally, the carafe is difficult to clean and may leave a small amount of liquid behind. Finally, the machine may not last as long as other coffee makers on the market.
Overall, we would recommend the Calphalon Coffee Maker to anyone looking for a stylish and functional coffee maker. The machine is fully programmable, and the enlarged showerhead and customizable warming plate make for a great cup of coffee every time.
Keurig® K-Duo Special Edition Single Serve K-Cup Pod & Carafe Coffee Maker, Silver
If you’re looking for a versatile coffee maker that can brew both a single cup and a carafe of coffee, the Keurig K-Duo Special Edition Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker is a great option. It has a sleek silver finish that will look great in any kitchen and can brew both ground coffee and K-Cup pods.
Pros
- The 60 oz. water reservoir is shared between the single-serve and carafe brewing, saving you time and simplifying your morning routine.
- The included 12-cup glass carafe with metallic handle and heating plate are perfect for keeping your coffee hot.
- The coffee maker can be paused mid-brew for 20 seconds, so you can pour fresh, hot coffee right away.
Cons
- The coffee maker takes up a lot of space on the countertop.
- Some users have reported that the carafe pours awkwardly and can drip coffee onto the counter.
- The price point is higher than some other coffee makers on the market.
We’ve been using the Keurig K-Duo Special Edition for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its versatility. We love being able to brew a single cup of coffee when we’re in a hurry and a carafe when we have guests over. The coffee maker is easy to use and the programmable carafe auto-brew feature is a nice touch.
The 60 oz. water reservoir is a great feature that means we don’t have to refill it as often, and the included 12-cup glass carafe with metallic handle and heating plate are perfect for keeping our coffee hot. The pause and pour feature is also handy when we can’t wait for the entire carafe to brew.
The only downsides we’ve found are that the coffee maker takes up a lot of space on the countertop and the carafe can pour awkwardly, sometimes dripping coffee onto the counter. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other coffee makers on the market.
Overall, we would recommend the Keurig K-Duo Special Edition Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker to anyone looking for a versatile coffee maker that can brew both a single cup and a carafe of coffee.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a coffee maker, there are a few key features to look for in order to choose the best product for your needs. Here are some things to consider:
Capacity
The first thing to consider is how much coffee you need to make at once. If you only drink one or two cups of coffee in the morning, a single-serve coffee maker might be the best option for you. However, if you have a large family or frequently entertain guests, a larger coffee maker with a higher capacity might be more practical.
Brewing Options
Different coffee makers offer different brewing options. Some only make regular coffee, while others can make espresso, cappuccino, and other specialty drinks. Consider what types of coffee you enjoy and choose a coffee maker that can make those drinks.
Programmable Features
Many coffee makers now come with programmable features, such as a timer or auto shut-off. These features can be very convenient, especially if you have a busy schedule and want to have your coffee ready when you wake up in the morning.
Price
Coffee makers can range in price from under $20 to over $500. Consider your budget when choosing a coffee maker, but keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. Look for a coffee maker that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Finally, consider how easy the coffee maker is to use and clean. Look for a coffee maker with simple controls and an easy-to-clean carafe. A removable water reservoir can also make filling and cleaning the coffee maker much easier.
By considering these features, you can choose the best coffee maker for your needs and enjoy delicious coffee every morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brand is the best coffee maker?
We believe that no single brand is the best coffee maker. Each brand has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular brands include Breville, Keurig, Cuisinart, and Ninja. It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a coffee maker.
What is the #1 coffee maker?
We do not believe that there is a single #1 coffee maker. Different coffee makers have different features and functions that make them more suitable for different people. It’s important to consider your needs and preferences when choosing a coffee maker.
What is a good coffee machine for home use?
There are many good coffee machines for home use. Some popular options include drip coffee makers, single-serve coffee makers, and espresso machines. It’s important to consider your budget, the number of people you will be serving, and your preferred brewing method when choosing a coffee machine for home use.
What is the best hottest coffee maker?
The best hottest coffee maker is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Some coffee makers have a high-temperature setting that can produce hotter coffee, while others have a thermal carafe that can keep the coffee hot for longer. It’s important to consider your preferred brewing method and temperature when choosing a coffee maker.
How to choose the best coffee maker for you?
To choose the best coffee maker for you, consider your budget, the number of people you will be serving, your preferred brewing method, and any additional features you may want, such as programmability or a thermal carafe. It’s also important to read reviews and compare different models before making a decision.
When should you replace a coffee maker?
You should replace a coffee maker when it no longer functions properly or produces low-quality coffee. Signs that it may be time to replace your coffee maker include slow brewing, leaks, and inconsistent temperature or flavor. It’s recommended to replace your coffee maker every 2-3 years to ensure optimal performance and quality.