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Top 25 Best Coffee Makers in 2022

Looking for the best coffee makers with multiple features and functions? OwlRatings present you with a list of top 25 coffee makers to help you start your day with a delicious coffee easily. Some are multi-functional while others have very unique features to offer to its buyers.

The best coffee makers

For many, a morning routine is never complete without a cup of Joe. Whether you’re addicted to espresso, cappuccino or just plain-old regular coffee, investing in a coffee machine is the best way to ensure you’re getting a quality drink.

But there are so many different types of coffee machines that picking one can feel overwhelming.

If you’re not sure of what to go for, we’re here to help. In the following post, we’ve reviewed different types of coffee makers and included a guide to help you narrow down your options. Read on to learn more about the best coffee makers on the market.

Why you should make your own coffee at home

Have you been sitting on the fence about buying a coffee maker? Well, here are a couple of compelling reasons to finally get you on board the brew-at-home-coffee bandwagon:

It’s better for your wallet

When you go to the barista, how much do you spend on a cup of coffee? Based on these statistics, you probably spend an average of $2.99 per cup. This translates to $89 per month and well over $1,000 in a year.

And that is only if you take one cup of coffee a day. This cost also fails to account for the extras that some people prefer, like added creams, specialty flavors or extra milk. If you’re the type of person who takes 3 to 4 cups or can’t do without the extras, the costs add up significantly.

Looking for ways to save a few bucks? Invest in a quality coffee maker and start making your own coffee at home.

Sure, the initial cost of buying a coffee machine is steep. But, it’s a long-term investment that will serve you for years. Going forward, the only expense you’ll incur is buying coffee, which is relatively cheap.

Let’s say you buy a 12-ounce bag of medium-roast coffee, which costs roughly $12.99. If you use 20 grams of the coffee to make one cup, you’ll be able to make 20 cups in total. It means that you’ll be spending about $0.65 per cup. This translates to $2.34 in savings for every cup!

Freedom to use your preferred brewing technique

Another perk of buying a coffee machine is that you’ll have freedom to use your favorite brewing method.

Do you prefer a hands-on approach? Then consider buying a manual pour over.

Do you prefer a more laid-back approach where the appliance does most of the work for you? Then an automatic dripper or single-serve coffee machine is your best bet.

Do you like your coffee to have rich flavors? Go for a French press instead.

You have full control of flavor

Only you have a clear understanding of the flavors you like for your coffee. The good thing about brewing coffee at home is that you’re free to experiment as much as you want.

You can try out different blends or coffee beans. You can also make a few tweaks to the brewing temperature and duration till you find the perfect cup of Joe that excites your taste buds.

More importantly, you will no longer have to worry about those colleagues who give you a side eye for adding too much sugar or milk in your cuppa. Essentially, you don’t have to settle for anything less than perfect.

It saves you time

Have you been hesitant to brew coffee at home because you think it’s time consuming? Well, clearly, you haven’t thought about all the time you waste going to the coffee shop, then having to wait in line.

If you invest in a programmable coffee maker, you’ll be able to set up the machine to have your beverage ready for you the minute you wake up.

It’s better for the environment

The next time you think about ordering your favorite cappuccino, consider this: a staggering 16 billion paper coffee cups are used each year.

The typical disposable cup is made using hard-to-recycle polypropylene, polyethylene or Styrofoam. So when you constantly buy take-out coffee, you’re playing your part in destroying the environment.

Best overall

Ninja 10-Cup Specialty Coffee Maker

Ninja 10-Cup Specialty Coffee Maker

The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker excels in versatility. Not only do you have the freedom to pick between different brew sizes, but also the style of brewing.

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Looking for a coffee machine that offers an excellent performance all-round? If you are, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one better than the Ninja 10-cup Specialty.

The versatility of this appliance is its biggest selling point. You get a choice of four different brewing styles: classic, rich, specialty or over ice.

You also get to pick from different brew sizes, ranging from a single cup to a full carafe. And, you can prepare milk-based beverages using either hot or cold milk.

That said, some buyers find the Ninja’s price tag to be on the higher side. The appliance is also rather tall, so you’ll need to set aside enough space on your kitchen counter.

Best for iced coffee

Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

This coffee maker is the best for brewing iced coffee.

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When it’s hot outside, a cup of hot coffee won’t help you to feel any cooler. For such times, being able to enjoy an iced latte or cold brew coffee is a much better choice. But to accomplish this, you’ll need an iced coffee maker like the Keurig K-Elite.

While this appliance is revered mostly for its ability to make pleasantly-cold beverages, it has a lot more to offer. For instance, it has a massive water reservoir that boasts a capacity of 75 ounces. Thanks to this, you can brew eight cups of coffee without having to go back and forth to refill it.

Better yet, it has a hot water dispenser and a descaling reminder that alerts when the machine needs to be descaled. The only drawback is the fact that it comes in dull color schemes. It’s also not the most affordable model around.

Best under $100

Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer Coffee Maker

Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer Coffee Maker

This coffee maker is particularly great at keeping your coffee warm for a period of up to 4 hours.

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If you’re not looking to spend more than $100 on a new coffee maker, the Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer is the perfect alternative.

Despite the low price tag, this appliance doesn’t compromise on any essential features. For starters, it has a very user-friendly design. The control panel is located right at the front, and it has well-labeled functions. This makes it very easy to navigate.

And when it comes to the brewing process, it offers a great deal of flexibility. You can decide to brew in small batches of 4 cups at a time or up to 12 cups in one go, which is ideal for bigger families.

The one thing you might not like is that it’s mostly made of plastic, which takes away from its durability.

Best with frother

Keurig K-Cafe SE Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Cafe SE Coffee Maker

This is the most suitable coffee machine for brewing cappuccinos, lattes and espresso-style beverages as it comes with a milk frother.

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Do you like to jumpstart your day with a milk-based drink like a latte or cappuccino? If you do, you’re better off investing in a coffee maker with a milk frother, like the Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition.

This unit comes equipped with a frothing jug, and gives you the freedom to use a hot or cold setting to froth the milk. Of course, you can also brew regular coffee, in which case you’ll be able to select your preferred brew strength.

If you often forget to switch off your coffee machine, then you’ll be pleased with the auto off feature integrated in this unit. That said, be prepared to pay a hefty sum of money for this investment.

Best for beginners

Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Classic coffee machine is best known for its user-friendly interface. It has sleek and simple features, which you can adjust based on your needs with just a few clicks!

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Brewing quality coffee at home used to be an art that required tons of practice. But thanks to modern coffee machines like the Keurig K-Classic, this is no longer an uphill task.

This appliance is designed with one of the most user-friendly interfaces. To brew coffee, just pop a pod, select the brew size, and your coffee will be ready in a matter of seconds.

And it’s not just the brewing process that has been simplified. Cleaning this coffee machine is also a breeze. For starters, the unit includes a drip tray for catching spills. Then, most of its components are dishwasher safe.

Despite these handy features, it’s crucial to point out that this coffee maker lacks temperature control settings.

Best french press

Mueller Austria French Press Coffee Maker

Mueller Austria French Press Coffee Maker

The Mueller French Press is great at producing coffee with a more sophisticated flavor. It also includes a double-wall heat insulation layer that keeps beverages hot.

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Making coffee in a French Press is one of the most appealing and highly-rewarding brewing methods. It produces an ultra-rich coffee flavor and this is precisely what you can expect from the Mueller French Press.

This coffee machine boasts a unique 4-level filtration system that provides optimal filtration. This results in coffee that has zero grit. Better yet, it doesn’t use a paper filter, enabling it to retain a considerable portion of the oil from coffee beans, which further enhances flavor.

Thanks to the double layer of stainless steel, Mueller French Press can keep your drink at your preferred temperature for a pretty long time.

That said, it might take you a few trials to master how to brew coffee using this appliance. If you’re not attentive, you may end up over-extracting the grounds, which can lead to a bitter coffee taste.

Best under $50

Cafe Du Chateau French Press Coffee Maker

Cafe Du Chateau French Press Coffee Maker

Its ability to bring out all the natural flavors of ground coffee makes this French Press stand out.

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Given that this is another French Press coffee machine, you wouldn’t be wrong to assume that it produces a very rich coffee flavor. But what makes the Cafe Du Chateau really stand out is its price. At under $50, this appliance is perfect for buyers working with a shoestring budget.

In addition to being affordable, this coffee machine has a striking design that you’re sure to fall in love with. The manufacturer has used a combination of borosilicate glass and 304 grade stainless steel. The result is a beautiful, dependable and highly durable coffee maker.

If you’re doubtful about the French Press’ performance due to its price, you can rest easy knowing that it comes with a lifetime replacement policy.

Best space-saving design

Keurig K-Slim Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Slim Coffee Maker

You don’t need to wait for the brewer to heat water with the K-Slim before choosing the cup size. As soon as you insert the k cup, choose the size, and press the brew option, the coffee maker automatically starts heating and brewing water.

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Whether you live alone or have a small kitchen countertop, there’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars investing in a gigantic coffee machine. For such instances, a compact but functional model like the Keurig K-Slim Coffee Maker will suffice.

This appliance is less than 5 inches wide, allowing it to fit perfectly on small-sized counters. However, just because it has a small footprint doesn’t mean it’s inferior to other models.

In fact, it has a decent 46-ounce water reservoir, making it possible to brew 4 cups of coffee without having to refill. Furthermore, you get to pick from three different brew sizes: an 8-, 10- and 12-ounce cup.

Another area where this machine truly shines is in energy efficiency. While other coffee makers wait hours, this one automatically shuts off just 5 minutes after the last brew.

Best for large families

Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker

Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker

Its dual water window makes it easy to monitor the water level when making coffee.

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If you live in a large household, you’ll be best served by a big coffee machine that can brew a decent amount of coffee in one go. In that regard, Mr.Coffee Coffee Maker is a solid option. It brews 12 cups at a time, which is three times more than what you’d get from the Keurig K-Slim model.

Another feature that makes this unit stand out is the auto-pause feature. This allows you to pause the brewing process mid-way and enjoy a cup if you wish. It also boasts a dual water window that gives you a clear view of the water as you fill so you don’t end up spilling.

We also like this coffee machine’s design that lets you store the cord in the rear; minimizing clutter on the counter. The one thing we didn’t fancy was its plastic build, which makes it feel rather cheap.

Best single serve

Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

We loved its fast brewing time. With four easy steps (insert a pod, add water, place a cup below and press the ‘on’ button) your cup of coffee is ready in two minutes only.

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Are you always in a rush to get to work or drop your kids off at school? If so, a single-serve coffee machine like the Keurig K-Mini is just what you need. It makes quick work of the coffee brewing process, helping you rejuvenate before you start running your usual errands.

Another one of this machine’s key highlights is its design. As implied in its title, it has a pretty compact design, allowing it to fit on even the most congested countertop. Moreover, you’ll get to pick from multiple colors, including black, dusty rose, red, gray, and turquoise.

Aesthetics aside, this coffee machine doesn’t disappoint in its performance either. It’s designed to brew anywhere between 6- and 12 ounces. Plus, it has a removable drip tray, and auto shut-off feature that switches it off 90 seconds after the last brew.

Best drip coffee maker

KRUPS Simply Brew Compact Filter Drip Coffee Maker

KRUPS Simply Brew Compact Filter Drip Coffee Maker

It’s easy-pour, no-drip spout feature is pretty convenient for a busy household because you don’t have to keep on cleaning the countertop every time you pour a cup or brew coffee.

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For the best drip coffee machine, you can’t go wrong with the Krups Simply Brew model. There are a couple of reasons why this coffee maker is so highly-rated, the main one being its user-friendly design.

Brewing coffee with this appliance is a piece of cake. Literally, all you have to do is add your ground coffee, add water, and press the On button.

Furthermore, it comes equipped with a permanent sanitized coffee filter. This eliminates the need to keep purchasing paper filters; hence, saving you money.

The biggest drawback of buying Krups Simply Brew is the fact that it’s not programmable. It means you won’t be able to make coffee in advance.

Best thermal carafe

Black+Decker CM2035B 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker

Black+Decker CM2035B 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker

Despite having so many features, the coffee maker has a surprisingly small footprint. It measures 7×9 inches, making it easy to set it up on counters with small spaces.

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The benefits of a thermal carafe coffee machine are undisputable. It has superior heat retention capabilities, meaning it can keep your beverage hot for longer.

On that note, the Black + Decker CM2035B coffee maker is among the best in this category. It has a double-walled carafe, enabling it to keep your drink at your preferred temperature for hours.

The flexibility this appliance offers is another feature buyers love. You can choose the specific brew strength you like. And, you can opt to brew in small or big batches.

Unlike Krups drip coffee maker that lacks programmable settings, this one is programmable. This means you can schedule it to brew coffee ahead of time.

Even if you prefer to configure it manually, you’ll find it easy to navigate. The buttons are big and well-labelled. Besides, there’s a button for every function – selecting the brew strength, number of cups, and brew time- so you’ll have a fairly easy time making your cup of Joe.

Best high-end

Technivorm Moccamaster KBG Coffee Maker

Technivorm Moccamaster KBG Coffee Maker

The coffee maker can keep coffee hot for a long time. This is one feature any coffee fanatic will appreciate, and the good news is that the flavor remains consistent.

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For individuals who don’t mind splurging on a state-of-the-art coffee machine, the Technivorm Moccamaster 5916 is the ideal choice.

It’s equipped with features that you’re not likely to find in other coffee makers. For instance, it has a copper element that keeps the brewing temperature within the ideal range of 196 to 205°F.

Then once it’s done brewing, your beverage is held on a uniquely-designed hot plate. We say unique because it allows you to hold your coffee at either 175° or 185°F.

The speed at which this machine brews coffee remains unmatched. It can brew a whole carafe of 40 ounces in just six minutes!

Worried that you’ll be spending a huge sum of money on its purchase? You don’t need to, as it’s backed by a 5-year warranty.

Best portable

AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

This is the ultimate coffee machine to buy if you like to travel. It’s lightweight, compact and portable, making it perfect for camping, kayaking, backpacking and more.

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At first glance, you may not think much of the Aeropress coffee maker, especially if you consider its small footprint. But once you put it to the test, you’ll realize that it’s a powerful machine capable of producing flavorful coffee.

Its biggest strength is its compact design, which makes it easy to carry to work or a road trip. But, this small footprint also places a limitation on what it can do. As such, it’s best suited for individuals looking to brew just 1 to 3 cups at a time.

On a more positive note, the Aeropress gives you ample control of the brewing process. You’ll be free to make decisions relating to the type of grind, and water temperature.

But while this coffee machine comes with an array of attachments, it doesn’t include a travel mug so you’ll have to buy this separately.

Best with built-in grinder

Cuisinart Burr Grind & Brew Thermal Coffee Maker

Cuisinart Burr Grind & Brew Thermal Coffee Maker

This coffee machine is great at producing freshly-ground coffee. The built-in burr grinder does a good job of grinding, resulting in grit-free, and tasty coffee.

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When it comes to the debate between freshly-ground vs. pre-ground coffee, freshly ground reigns supreme.

Coffee brewed using freshly ground coffee extracted from whole beans is not only more flavorful but also aromatic. If this sounds like something you’d like to try, check out the Cuisinart Grind and Brew coffeemaker.

The unit comes fitted with a burr grinder that can grind beans just before brewing. And if you prefer to use pre-ground coffee instead, all you have to do is select the grind-off option.

Furthermore, the coffee machine is fully programmable, allowing you to brew your drink up to 24 hours in advance. Other features that we like include the auto shut-off, thermal carafe, and brew strength selector.

That said, the Cuisinart DGB-900BC is pricey, so be prepared to pay relatively more than what you’d pay for a conventional coffee machine.

Best for hot and cold drinks

Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System coffee maker

Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System coffee maker

This is the perfect machine for lovers of solid drip coffee, lattes and tea.

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The Ninja hot and cold brew system allows you to brew various brew sizes such as the travel mug, the pod free single cup, and a full Carafe. This coffee maker lets you brew your favourite tea style, whether you use loose leaf or tea bags, and it comes with a specially made tea brew basket.

Sleek Design

Most coffee makers always come in dull plastic boxes or are covered in everyday stainless steel. However, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewer’s designers took another approach. Although it is made majorly from plastic, the coffee maker’s surface is a glossy, and black. This, including shiny LED indicators and some silver highlights make this device very stylish.

Multiple Usage

This coffee maker can be used for tea also. The system of the coffee maker separates the tea filter and it can accept both tea bags and loose-leaf. The brewer detects the filter the moment it is inserted into its slot. Then, you have the option of choosing between black, herbal, white and green, and oolong presets to match your brew taste.

Fast Brewing

When it comes to drip brewers, the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System can stand its ground. It brews quite fast, as you can brew half carafes within 6 minutes 19 seconds. For a coffee of this size, you’ll need about 33 oz. (0.98 litres) of water.

When we ran the 33 oz. of water through the coffee maker, we noticed it emitted a low water warning, but it still completed its task. On another note, the device makes full carafes (1.4 litres or 48.2 oz.) in 8 minutes.

Great Tech

It also features an auto IQ one-touch intelligence tech with an inbuilt frother that turns cold or hot milk into smooth froth within seconds. All these can be done by just pressing a button, but you need to remember it’s not safe to wash the thermal carafe in a dishwasher.

What we like

Attractive and compact, this machine brews lots of coffee fast in multiple sizes. The milk frother for latte styled drinks is excellent. It uses a different filter for tea.

What we didn’t like

The coffee maker brews a tad bitter and a little hot. The cold brew mode does not have enough strength and lacks flavour. Also, there is no manual setting if you want custom brews.

Best simple

Keurig K-Duo Plus coffee maker

Keurig K-Duo Plus coffee maker

One of the most versatile coffee maker you’ll ever come across.

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The Keurig K Café offers you delicious coffee house beverages and rich, full flavoured coffee. It can also make cappuccinos, latte, and single-serve coffee. Whether you’re making cappuccinos and lattes or brewing coffee, this coffee maker works perfectly with all K-cup pods.

By using the cold setting, you can make cold frothed milk, iced cappuccinos or revitalising iced latte. The coffee maker allows you to brew between 6 – 12 oz. of cocoa, tea or coffee.

Easy To Clean

Cleaning the Keurig K Café is as easy as can be with the dishwasher safe frother. This feature makes clean up a breeze while enjoying delicious specialty

Simple Buttons and Massive reservoir

With any k-cup pod of your choice, you can brew coffee, cappuccinos or delicious lattes. The Keurig K Café also has simple button controls that are easy to navigate by all and sundry.

This coffee maker comes with a massive 60 oz. water reservoir. With this reservoir, you can brew about 6 cups of coffee before refilling. This saves you a lot of time and enhances your morning routine. The reservoir is also removable so refilling it is straightforward.

Smart Start Feature and Brewer Maintenance reminder

There’s the smart start feature that makes the device heat up, and then you’re free to brew. You don’t have to wait for the machine to heat before you choose your cup size.

It also comes with a brewer maintenance reminder feature that alerts you when it’s time to descale the coffee maker. It is important to always descale your machine because it removes calcium deposits that build up over time, and it ensures your brew tastes perfect.

Great for Travellers

If you’re someone that travels regularly, this coffee maker is ideal for you. It can accommodate travel mugs that are about 7.2″ tall, and it is also easy to clean up with top rack dishwashers. With the high altitude setting, the machine works perfectly at any height above 5000 feet.

What we like

The Keurig K café is also energy efficient. It has an automatic auto off feature that kicks in 2 hours after your last brew. This ensures you don’t spend a fortune on energy bills.

What we didn’t like

It is fairly expensive. We noticed that the reservoir’s handle needs to be used carefully.

Best 2-way

Hamilton Beach 2-Way

Hamilton Beach 2-Way

Great for beginners, easy to clean and many features.

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The Keurig K Café offers you delicious coffee house beverages and rich, full flavoured coffee. It can also make cappuccinos, latte, and single-serve coffee. Whether you’re making cappuccinos and lattes or brewing coffee, this coffee maker works perfectly with all K-cup pods.

By using the cold setting, you can make cold frothed milk, iced cappuccinos or revitalising iced latte. The coffee maker allows you to brew between 6 – 12 oz. of cocoa, tea or coffee.

Easy To Clean

Cleaning the Keurig K Café is as easy as can be with the dishwasher safe frother. This feature makes clean up a breeze while enjoying delicious specialty

Simple Buttons and Massive reservoir

With any k-cup pod of your choice, you can brew coffee, cappuccinos or delicious lattes. The Keurig K Café also has simple button controls that are easy to navigate by all and sundry.

This coffee maker comes with a massive 60 oz. water reservoir. With this reservoir, you can brew about 6 cups of coffee before refilling. This saves you a lot of time and enhances your morning routine. The reservoir is also removable so refilling it is straightforward.

Smart Start Feature and Brewer Maintenance reminder

There’s the smart start feature that makes the device heat up, and then you’re free to brew. You don’t have to wait for the machine to heat before you choose your cup size.

It also comes with a brewer maintenance reminder feature that alerts you when it’s time to descale the coffee maker. It is important to always descale your machine because it removes calcium deposits that build up over time, and it ensures your brew tastes perfect.

Great for Travellers

If you’re someone that travels regularly, this coffee maker is ideal for you. It can accommodate travel mugs that are about 7.2″ tall, and it is also easy to clean up with top rack dishwashers. With the high altitude setting, the machine works perfectly at any height above 5000 feet.

What we like

The Keurig K café is also energy efficient. It has an automatic auto off feature that kicks in 2 hours after your last brew. This ensures you don’t spend a fortune on energy bills.

What we didn’t like

It is fairly expensive. We noticed that the reservoir’s handle needs to be used carefully.

Best fully programmable

Cuisinart DCC-3200​P1 coffee maker

Cuisinart DCC-3200​P1 coffee maker

This coffee maker is for those that want a fully programmable device.

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Over the years, Cuisinart has built a reputation of making fantastic kitchen equipment – and the fully automatic programmable Cuisinart DCC 3200 is no different. It can brew hot coffee in massive quantities, and you can program it to brew coffee for you every morning automatically.

Simple Design

There’s no mistaking Cuisinart’s signature on this coffee maker: black plastic, brushed stainless steel, and buttons with blue light surrounding it.

Although it doesn’t look so striking, it’s not offensive to the sight either. When it comes to size, it is quite small (7.75 x 9 In), but it stands at 14 In which might be a little cumbersome in under some cabinets. The water window is quite easy to view, which makes it easy to fill accurately.

Features

The Cuisinart DCC 3200 comes equipped with several features that makes it a competent performer when compared to other drip coffee makers in the same category.

Hardware

Looking at this device from the hardware perspective, it comes with a “shower-head” design that makes sure extraction is even from ground coffee. Most drip-brewers often focus their stream in a particular area, which leads to under-extracting most coffee grounds while over-extracting some.

There’s a water level indicator in the water reservoir which comes with a carbon water filter. It is suggested you replace it every 60 brews or days.

Ease of Use

This coffee maker has made it very easy to make yourself a cup or a pot if you wish. All you have to do is to fill the tank with water. In the filter basket, add your coffee grounds and press the button to brew. If you want a small batch or you want a stronger brew, press the 1-4 cup or bold button before you press the brew button.

What we liked

When you compare the price of Cuisinart DCC 3200, it is neither expensive nor cheap. It gives high capacity brew (about 14 cups), and programmability without leaving a hole in your pocket. To top off, the machine comes with 3 years warranty.

What we didn’t like

This machine doesn’t offer you the flexibility of making a single-serve coffee. Another major drawback is that it doesn’t have an SCAA (Specialty Coffee Association of America certification) certification.

Best drip coffee

Bonavita Connoisseur BV1900TS coffee maker

Bonavita Connoisseur BV1900TS coffee maker

Brews delicious drip coffee

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Three years ago, the Bonavita BV1900TS coffee maker was released and it won the hearts of coffee drinkers and critics alike. Apart from the delicious coffee it made, the haggle-free design and comparatively low price were major talking points.

However, the Bonavita Connoisseur seems to be an improvement on it. This coffee maker may not be beautifully designed or sophisticated like some of its competitors like Breville Precision Brewer – it can stand its ground when it comes to functionality.

Another advantage it has over the other coffee makers is that it competent yet it costs less. For this reason, it’s a highly recommended and outstanding buy.

Regular Design yet Functional Machine

Just like its predecessor, the Connoisseur is nice-looking but is not all that striking. Hand-built in Holland, the classic design of the coffee maker is remarkable and highly functional. Still, the stainless black plastic trim and steel body of this brewer matches with modern kitchen decors.

The designers resisted the urge to add additional complexity to the Connoisseur. Filling the tank is a can be done in a jiffy – Just open the reservoirs flap and pour water into the wide mouth directly. The tank has a max capacity of 40 oz.

Easy to Use

The coffee maker comes with just one button, which makes it very easy to operate. It looks more like a switch coming in a small, spherical button shape.

Taste and Performance

Due to the success of its predecessor, the BV1900TS, we thought the Connoisseur wouldn’t match up. However, not only did it succeed, but it also exceeded our expectations. When it comes to brewing coffee grounds, the Bonavita Connoisseur put in an impressive performance.

What we like

The Bonavita Connoisseur makes spectacularly good coffee without having to break the bank. This brewer is easy to use, compact, and can be easily cleaned. The thermal carafe keeps your coffee hot for several hours.

What we didn’t like

It’s not as beautifully designed as other coffee makers designed by Technivorm.

Best premium if price doesn’t matter

Jura E8 Automatic coffee maker

Jura E8 Automatic coffee maker

Brews the highest quality coffee

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The Jura E8 is a top-end espresso machine with several bells and whistles that will satisfy even the fussiest coffee drinker. It comes with advanced brewing technology and an automatic milk frother, this espresso machine puts an assortment of frothy coffee recipes right at your fingertips.

Although it is quite expensive for a brewer, you have to remember this is a Jura – a renowned company reputed for the quality and impeccable design of their products.

Design

Designed in Switzerland, Jura E8 is a beautiful machine, and you can get it in two colours, chrome edges that flanks a chrome double outlet espresso sprout or glossy piano black spout. Despite the fact that the chrome siding is attention-grabbing, it often shows fingerprints which require constant cleaning to always look pristine

Software

This device comes with a TFT-LCD screen located at the top and it displays all drink settings and options. Rather than go for a touch screen, this brewer comes with six physical buttons that matches the onscreen selections.

Although some people prefer the comfort of a touch screen, the buttons have their advantage too. Your screen won’t be covered with unappealing fingerprint smudges. Keep in mind that this is a premium coffee maker, so it has to look the part.

Nicely Built

In no way is the Jura E8 a small device. However, when compared to other automatic espresso makers, it’s fairly average sized. This coffee maker should comfortably sit on most countertops and in tight spaces.

High Brew Quality

For such a premium machine, the Jura E8 gives a delightful and precise quick automatic brew that includes flat white, latte, cappuccino, coffee, ristretto, and espresso. If you want a non-milk based drink, all you have to do is to double-tap the brew button. This tells the brewer that you want to brew a double.

Also, the Jura E8 steams milk and froths by pushing a button, and it dispenses hot water for hot tea or Americanos.

Easy to clean

This automatic espresso machine relies on a sophisticated movement of several parts and high-pressure hoses. A combination of these often leads to a high maintenance machine that’s difficult to clean. Luckily, the engineers at Jura ensured the product comes with smart cleaning right from the onset.

What we like

The stylish design, automated maintenance procedures and programmable beverage modes are standout performers. This coffee maker is filled with amazing features, it is easy to use, reliable, and it is easy to maintain.

What we don’t like

This coffee maker doesn’t come cheap. However, if you want a smarter automatic espresso machine for this price range, you should consider other options with more features.

Best affordable

Black and Decker CM1160B-1 coffee maker

Black and Decker CM1160B-1 coffee maker

Best budget coffee maker for a beginner

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The Black and Decker programmable coffee maker is one machine that gets the job done with little or no stress. You can brew about 12 cups of coffee with lovely taste in one sitting.

Quick Touch Programming

This brewer comes with a soft touch control panel that allows you read the digital display easily. This panel also lets you read the auto brew option, and the programmable timer and clock.

These features come in handy when you need your early morning coffee, or you want to brew up a pot.

Sneak-A-Cup

Another feature to look out for is the Sneak-A-Cup interrupt feature which allows you pour a quick cup while the coffee is brewing without making a terrible mess. On the other hand, the non-stick keep warm plate makes sure your coffee doesn’t get cold for about 2 hours after which it’ll automatically shut down.

This coffee maker also comes with a dura life glass carafe, together with a large stay-cool handle, with measuring marks.

Perfect Temperature

If your coffee temperature is of great importance to you than the intricacies of how it tastes, then you should go for this coffee maker. It did an excellent job of keeping the coffee warm for 2 hours.

Easy to Use

The buttons on this coffee maker are easy to press with legible markings that you can read without having to squint your eyes. This is the ideal budget, coffee maker. The carafe is also dish water safe and is an all-round user-friendly model.

What we like

It is easy to access the brew basket and the water tank. The coffee maker is extremely easy to use with legible markings and controls. The coffee maker’s tank is also easy to clean.

What we didn’t like

You have to lift the lid on the reservoir when you want to fill the brewer with water. This means you need to remove it from the cabinet to set it up.

Best features

Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer coffee maker

Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer coffee maker

Great features, taste and drip coffee

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The Breville Precision Brewer isn’t your regular drip coffee maker. It goes beyond brewing big pots of tasty coffee, it does so with robotic consistency with great speeds, but it is also very flexible. The device accepts both flat bottom and cone filters.

Easily customisable

In addition, you have the freedom to customise major brewing factors. This includes flow rate, water temperature, and pre-soak length. The Precision can automatically create cold brew without making a mess.

Nice Design

On the exterior, the Breville Precision Brewer seems like your standard drip machine. However, the stainless steel exterior it comes with makes it stand out as a premium appliance. It’s a different ball game entirely when you look at the insides. The makers took a completely new approach with the design of this coffee maker.

Advanced Hardware

The Breville Precision Brewer is very flexible thanks to its advanced hardware. There are 6 automatic brewing modes at your disposal to choose from. A “fast” cycle thrusts hot water through the brewer as fast as possible.

When you use the “gold” setting, the device brews your coffee in strict accordance to the “gold cup standard” as stipulated by the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association). On the other hand, if you decide to use the “strong” mode, it increases the temperature and the brew time. This allows the grounds to be extracted more thoroughly.

Just as the name implies, the Breville Precision Brewer showed incredible temperature control when it was tested in the lab. In actual fact, the brewer had the most stable and accurate heat levels we recorded so far in a coffee maker.

What we like

Without an iota of doubt, the Breville Precision Brewer a remarkable coffee maker. It comes with accurate brewing temperatures and Precision that gives it great flexibility for a coffee maker. It is almost as stylish as a fully automatic espresso machine.

Obviously, all this machine’s additional settings and functions are not for everyone but for people that love to experiment and tinker – this would be a game-changer it.

What we didn’t like

This machine doesn’t come cheap. You also need to buy additional accessory to use its pour over mode.

Best combination

De’longhi BCO430BM coffee maker

De’longhi BCO430BM coffee maker

Combination coffee and espresso maker

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The De’Longhi BCO330T Combination Coffee Machine is a combination of a drip coffee maker and a true espresso machine. The question we need to answer is does it function perfectly as it should?

Super Simple Setup

Apart from quickly washing the carafe and removable parts of the brewer before first use, the only thing left to set up was the clock’s setting. The clock doesn’t function if the power of coffee maker goes off or it is unplugged.

Design

The Delonghi combination is neither pretty nor ugly. However, it replaces aesthetics for functionality, and it is as modern as it can get. The drip coffee’s handle that is used to open the filter drawer is a little too big than needed – on the other hand, this gives it a sturdy appearance.

Performance

This coffee maker is a fifteen bar machine which implies that it uses about fifteen pressure bars. One thing that we were worried about was the quality of the espresso, but the device did not disappoint.

Easy to Clean

This requires extra effort when compared to other brands, but it’s absolutely worth it. Due to the fact that the Combination coffee maker functions in two ways, you’ll need to do more regarding maintenance – but it’s quite simple.

What We Like

It is quite pricey for a single machine, but very reasonable for as a 2 in 1 coffee maker. Considering the features it comes with and the services it renders, this is a great buy. You get a 15 bar espresso in addition to drip coffee. For hot foamy milk, it has an integrated steamer and you can program the drip brew in advance.

What We Don’t Like

The two on/off buttons are a little confusing, and you cannot remove the water reservoirs.

Best retro design

Bella 13911 coffee maker

Bella 13911 coffee maker

Audible alerts and colorful design

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The Bella 12 cup programmable coffee maker gives you the advantage of waking up every morning to a fresh cup of coffee. This budget brewer does its job quickly by brewing up coffee that stays hot for at least 2 hours on the warming plate.

Design and size

This coffee maker was designed with a black plastic exterior and stainless steel which makes this java maker look eye-catching in your kitchen. However, when compared to other coffee makers on this list, the manufacturers – Sensio Inc – could have done better.

However, a major challenge most users will encounter when using this coffee maker in their kitchen is the frequency at which they’ll keep moving it. If it’s under standard sized cabinets, you’ll have to move it when you want to fill either the filter basket or the water tank.

The Bella 12 cup programmable coffeemaker is not small as it stands at 15 x 12.2 x 9.7 inches and is also on the heavy side weighing 6.8 pounds

Features

Regardless of your taste, this coffee maker has got you covered as it has a feature that remembers your brew choice. The best part of this brewer is the fact that you don’t have to use paper filters anymore when you need to use the reusable filter.

By using this coffeemaker, you also have the option of choosing your preferred brew strength, whether it’s bold or regular gourmet.

Software

For people that are always in a hurry when going out, this coffee maker has a 2-hour auto shut off function. Cleaning is also a breeze with this brewer as it has an inbuilt special cleaning cycle.

What we liked

The coffee maker is very easy to use. Other standout features are the hidden cord storage, non-stick heating plate and audible alerts.

What we didn’t like

You can’t see the water tank outside of the coffee maker. For you to know the water level, you have to look into the brewer while you pour. Brewing at optimal temperature is essential to produce great tasting coffee – unfortunately, this coffee maker fails in this regard.

Finally, the carafe isn’t dishwasher safe, and there’s a permanent stain on filter after consistent use.

What to look for in a good coffee maker

Here are a couple of factors you should take into account when purchasing a coffee maker:

Type of coffee maker

There are at least 15 different types of coffee makers. Here, we’ll look at the most popular models:

– Drip coffee maker

This is one of the most popular coffee machines, and understandably so. It’s able to preserve all the flavor and energetic traits of natural coffee. The fact that it brews coffee within a short time is another reason why it’s such a favorite.

A drip coffee maker comes with a permanent or detachable filter. You brew coffee by pouring hot water over ground coffee held by the filter. The resulting beverage has a fairly similar flavor to an espresso but it’s slightly weaker.

– Single-serve coffee maker

If you’re looking for the quickest way to brew this drink, a single-serve coffee maker is your best option. It utilizes pre-prepared coffee pods, which eliminates the need to measure your ingredients; hence saving you time.

All you need to do is place your mug under the spout, add fresh water and the pod to your coffee maker and your beverage will be ready in minutes.

– French press coffee maker

If you like to be a little bit hands-on in your coffee brewing process, a French press coffee maker is just what you need.

Unlike automatic coffee machines that do everything for you, this brewing technique requires you to measure out the ingredients, grind the coffee, add water, determine the duration for brewing and press the plunger.

The coffee machine is made up of a plunger, cylindrical carafe, and an inbuilt filter which percolates the coffee. It works by steeping coffee grounds for a few minutes in water that has just reached boiling point. It then plunges the coffee to extract flavor, being careful not to overheat the coffee beans.

– Thermal coffee maker

This appliance works in a fairly similar manner to a drip coffee maker. What makes the thermal model unique is that it’s able to keep your beverage hot for a long period. It does this without continuing to “cook” your drink; hence, helping to maintain the right flavor.

– Espresso machine

Espresso machines are quite expensive, and understandably so. They use an exceptional brewing technique that results in a very unique coffee flavor and texture.

This appliance works by forcing pressurized water, which is about to reach boiling point, through ground coffee then a filter. The result is thick, highly-concentrated coffee referred to as espresso.

Capacity

If a single cup is enough to kickstart your day, then you can save money by choosing a one- or two-cup model or a single-serve coffee machine.

But if you’re the kind who likes to take several cups, or live in a large household, you’ll be served better by a bigger appliance. Look for coffee machines that come equipped with a carafe or a self-serve reservoir. With such, you’ll be able to brew up to 10 or 12 cups in one go.

Brew strength & flavor

If you live with your family, and each member has their own coffee preferences, you’ll want to buy an appliance that lets you adjust the brew strength.

You may also want to look into coffee machines that offer better functionality than simply brewing regular coffee. Some are designed to whip up different beverages, from tea to lattes and cappuccinos.

Space

A coffee machine will be no good if it can’t fit on your kitchen countertop. So before you rush to make any purchase, determine just how much space you’ll set aside for your new appliance. If you don’t have much space, then look for a model that has a space-saving design.

Ease of cleaning

Some coffee machines are easier to clean and maintain than others. If you don’t want to spend half an hour just cleaning your appliance, be sure to go through reviews and establish whether it’s easy to clean.

For easy cleanups, it should have a drip tray that helps to catch spills. On the same note, components like the filter, cup holder and milk frother should be easy to remove and dishwasher-safe.

Extra features

Milk frother

Are you obsessed with milk-based beverages like cappuccinos and lattes? If you are, be sure to invest in a coffee machine with a milk frother. On that note, you’ll want to check whether the frothing spout is easy to remove and clean.

Ease of customization

Do you like to have control over aspects like the coarseness of the grind, water temperature or length of an espresso shot? If you do, look for an appliance that offers this level of customization.

For some, tweaking these factors can be done with the click of a button. But with others, you’ll have to turn a knob or dial; enabling you to configure more precise settings.

Cold brewing

How do you like to take your coffee? Do you prefer a cold brew or iced latte to hot coffee? If you do, then you’ll want to ensure that your coffee maker has these features.

FAQ

How do you know when it’s appropriate to replace your coffee maker?

There are a few reasons that warrant investing in a new coffee machine. For one, if your current appliance succumbs to limescale, becomes rusted or starts leaking, these are signs that you should start saving for a new one.

Similarly, if your coffee preferences or needs change, such that your current coffee maker doesn’t seem to help you, you can think of investing in a different type.

For instance, let’s say you were using a French Press. However, your needs have changed, and you’ve realized that a single-serve model offers more convenience. In such an instance, there’s nothing wrong with buying a better coffee machine.

How often should you clean a coffee maker?

You ought to clean your coffee machine after each use. By this we mean removing the grounds and cleaning detachable components like the brew basket, carafe and lid. But when it comes to descaling, you can schedule this for once a month.

How long does brewed coffee last?

Unless it’s stored in an airtight container, brewed coffee remains good for about half an hour. The reason why it doesn’t last that long is because it continues to oxidize long after the brewing process.

Final verdict

If you’re ready to start brewing coffee at home, then a quality coffee maker is a must-have. But before you purchase one, consider factors such as type/design, capacity of the water reservoir, size, ease of cleaning, customization, just to mention a few.

Ultimately, the best coffee machine is one that will not only brew great-tasting coffee that excites your taste buds but also fits within your budget.

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