The Best Coffee Maker Buying Guide
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide
Find the perfect coffee maker for your needs, from quick single-serve machines to advanced espresso setups. Here's everything to consider before making your next purchase:
Key Considerations
How Much Coffee Do You Drink?
- 1-2 Cups: Single-serve or small drip coffee makers.
- Multiple Cups or a Household: Larger drip coffee makers (10–14 cups) or thermal carafe models.
How Often Do You Drink Coffee?
- Throughout the Day: Models with thermal carafes or self-serve reservoirs to keep coffee fresh longer.
- Morning Rush: Look for programmable models that can start brewing before you wake up.
Cold or Hot Coffee Preferences?
- Hot Coffee: Drip, espresso, or pod machines.
- Cold Coffee: Dedicated cold-brew makers or models with "brew over ice" modes.
Counter Space:
- Check the height, width, and depth of the coffee maker to ensure it fits under cabinets or on your countertop.
Budget:
- Basic models: <$50.
- Advanced models: $100–$200.
- Premium features (e.g., built-in grinders): $200+.
Durability:
- Research brands with high predicted reliability and owner satisfaction using ratings or reviews.
Types of Coffee Makers
1. Drip Coffee Makers
- How They Work: Heat water, run it through coffee grounds in a filter, and collect coffee in a carafe.
- Best For: Classic coffee lovers, families, or heavy coffee drinkers.
- Features:
- Programmable timers.
- Glass or thermal carafes.
- Brew-strength control for customizing flavor.
2. Single-Serve Pod Coffee Makers
- How They Work: Brew coffee one cup at a time using pods or capsules.
- Best For: Quick, no-mess coffee lovers and minimal cleanup.
- Considerations:
- Higher cost per cup than traditional brewing.
- Pod waste (some brands offer recyclable or reusable pods).
3. Cold-Brew Coffee Makers
- How They Work: Use cold or room-temperature water to steep coffee grounds over time, creating a smooth, concentrated brew.
- Best For: Iced coffee enthusiasts or anyone who loves rich, low-acid coffee.
- Options:
- Manual models (steep overnight).
- Automatic models (brew faster with warm water).
4. 1-to-2 Mug Coffee Makers
- How They Work: Compact drip or pod models that brew directly into a mug or travel cup.
- Best For: Small-space dwellers and commuters.
5. Espresso Machines
- How They Work: Press hot water through finely ground coffee for concentrated shots of espresso.
- Best For: Barista-level enthusiasts and latte/cappuccino drinkers.
- Features:
- Steam wands for frothing milk.
- Semi-automatic or fully automatic options.
- Pricier models can exceed $1,000, but entry-level options start at ~$100.
Features to Look For
Programmable Settings: Brew coffee automatically at a specific time.
Brew-Strength Control: Adjust how strong or mild your coffee tastes.
Built-In Grinders: Grind beans fresh for optimal flavor.
Thermal Carafe: Keeps coffee hot without overheating.
Cleaning Features: Automatic cleaning cycles or dishwasher-safe parts.
Water Filters: Improve flavor by reducing impurities in water.
How to Save Money
- Opt for Basic Features: If you just need great coffee, skip premium add-ons.
- Durable Brands: Look for high-rated models for reliability to avoid frequent replacements.
- Reusable Pods: Save on single-serve coffee by using refillable pod adapters.
- Manual Cold Brew: Less expensive than automatic models and just as effective.
Top Coffee Maker Brands
- Keurig: Popular for single-serve convenience.
- Nespresso: Premium espresso and pod systems.
- Breville: High-end espresso and all-in-one machines.
- Cuisinart: Reliable, feature-packed drip coffee makers.
- Technivorm Moccamaster: Renowned for superior drip coffee quality.
Enjoy your perfect cup every day with the coffee maker that fits your lifestyle!
