Best Coffee Maker Buying Guide

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide

Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect coffee maker tailored to your preferences, habits, and kitchen style.

What to Consider When Buying a Coffee Maker

How Much Coffee Do You Drink?
- Solo drinkerOpt for a single-serve or 1- to 2-cup drip machine.
- For larger households, choose an automatic drip model with a 10- to 12-cup carafe.

How Often Do You Drink Coffee?
- For all-day coffee, choose a thermal carafe to keep it warm and fresh.

Do You Want Convenience?
- Programmable models can brew automatically at a set time.

Kitchen Space Considerations
- Ensure the machine fits under your cabinets and allows room to open the reservoir lid.

Love Cold Coffee?
- For cold-brew fans, consider dedicated cold-brew coffee makers for authentic chilled coffee.

Durability and Reliability
- Research brand reliability using guides like most reliable coffee makers.

Types of Coffee Makers

1. Drip Coffee Makers

Traditional models that brew larger batches.
Some feature built-in grinders for fresh grounds.

2. Single-Serve Pod Coffee Makers

Convenient and quick; use pods or adapters for loose grounds.
Pods may generate more waste but are recyclable in some cases.

3. Cold-Brew Coffee Makers

Manual or automatic models for smooth, less acidic coffee.
Automatic versions speed up the process, brewing in minutes.

4. Combination Coffee Makers

Versatile machines that can brew espresso, lattes, iced coffee, or traditional drip.

5. 1- to 2-Mug Coffee Makers

Compact options for smaller servings, perfect for individuals.

Features to Look For

Brew Strength Settings
- Adjust water flow for mild or bold coffee.

Pause-and-Serve Option
- Pour a cup mid-brew without spilling.

Self-Serve Reservoirs
- Dispenses coffee directly from the machine without a carafe.

Cleaning Alerts & Mechanisms
- Some models prompt you to clean or come with self-cleaning options.

Water Filtration
- Removes odors and improves taste.

Grind-and-Brew Functionality
- Convenient for fresh coffee but can be noisy and harder to clean.

Trends in Coffee Makers

Barista-Style Features: Many machines now include milk frothers, grinders, and cold-brew modes.
Cold-Brew at Home: Dedicated cold-brew machines simplify the process and speed up brewing.
Modern Designs: Sleek, stainless steel finishes and vibrant color options complement kitchen aesthetics.

Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Coffee Maker

Test Before You Buy: Check for ease of use, filling reservoirs, and cleaning.
Match Your Habits: Choose a machine that suits your brewing style—whether it’s quick pods or slow-brewed perfection.
Eco-Friendly Options: Consider recyclable pods or reusable filters to reduce waste.