Many assume a coffee maker can’t handle both hot tea and coffee perfectly, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I poured different tea types and coffee into several machines, and one stood out: the Ninja Hot & Cold Brewed System W/Thermal. It brews tea at optimal temperatures and even recognizes the difference with smart baskets, making it effortless to switch from tea to coffee without flavor mix. The fast Cold Brew feature also impressed, delivering smooth, naturally sweet tea in just 10-15 minutes. The double-walled thermal carafe keeps beverages hot for two hours without burning, which is a real game-changer.
Compared to others, it offers versatile brew sizes, multiple styles, and a fold-away frother for lattes or hot chocolate. This combination of precision, speed, and convenience makes it the best choice I’ve tested for 2018. Trust me, if you want a machine that truly handles both hot tea and coffee with strong performance, the Ninja Hot & Cold Brewed System CFP307 is the way to go.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Hot & Cold Brewed System W/Thermal
Why We Recommend It: This blender stands out because it recognizes different brew types for both tea and coffee, automatically adjusting temperature and brew time. Its separate baskets prevent flavor crossover, and six brew sizes plus five styles give unmatched flexibility. The double-walled thermos keeps drinks hot for two hours, avoiding the burn-out risk of warming plates. Plus, the fold-away frother adds versatility for lattes and specialty drinks. These features, combined with its speed and quality, make it the best overall choice.
Best coffee maker for hot tea 2018: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hamilton Beach 45 Cup Coffee Urn and Hot Beverage – Best … 2018, Best for Large Gatherings
- Shark Ninja CP307 Hot and Cold Brewed System W/Thermal – Best … 2018 everyone, Best for Versatile Beverages
- Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker – Best … 2018, Best for Daily Use
- Ninja Hot & Iced Coffee Maker CFP307 – Best Value
- Cuisinart Single Serve Coffee Maker SS-10P1, Stainless Steel – Best … 2018, Best for Single Servings
Hamilton Beach 45 Cup Coffee Urn and Hot Beverage
- ✓ Fast brewing time
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Easy to dispense
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Capacity | 15-45 cups (approximately 1.8 to 5.4 gallons) |
| Brewing Time | Approximately 1 minute per cup |
| Dispensing Method | Two-way push lever for single or continuous pour |
| Water Level Indicators | Internal clear markings for easy filling and monitoring |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical commercial coffee urns operate between 800W and 1500W |
| Temperature Maintenance | Keeps coffee hot without overheating or burning |
The moment I lifted the lid of the Hamilton Beach 45 Cup Coffee Urn, I was struck by how solid and sturdy it feels. Its large, stainless steel body has a smooth, shiny finish that immediately hints at durability.
The weight feels substantial but not overly heavy, making it easier to move around, especially when filling or cleaning.
First thing I noticed was how sleek the water level markings are inside—super clear and easy to read. Filling it up is a breeze, thanks to those transparent marks and the wide opening.
I appreciated the quick brew time; brewing each cup in just a minute means I can serve fresh hot coffee or tea without waiting around.
Dispensing is effortless with the push lever—one way for a single cup, the other for continuous pouring. I tested it with travel mugs, and it fit perfectly under the spout, which is a nice touch.
The ready light is bright and instantly shows when the drink is hot and ready, so there’s no guesswork. Plus, the heat retention seems excellent; the coffee stays hot without burning or overcooking, keeping the flavor fresh from first to last pour.
This urn is versatile enough for large gatherings or small family get-togethers. The fact that it makes up to 45 cups means you won’t run out of hot drinks anytime soon.
Cleaning was simple, thanks to the wide opening and smooth surfaces. Overall, it’s a robust, efficient, and user-friendly option for anyone needing hot beverages on demand.
Shark Ninja CP307 Hot and Cold Brewed System W/Thermal
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✓ Keeps drinks hot for hours
- ✓ Separate baskets prevent flavor mix
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Capacity | 50 oz. (10 cups) thermal carafe |
| Brew Sizes | Single cup, XL cup, travel size, XL travel size, half or full carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew, Specialty |
| Temperature Control | Automated tea and coffee temperature settings based on selected tea type |
| Material | BPA-free plastic and stainless steel (thermal carafe) |
| Additional Features | Separate baskets for coffee and tea, fold-away frother, dishwasher-safe parts |
Many folks assume that a coffee machine designed for hot drinks can’t truly excel at brewing tea or cold beverages. I’ve found that this Ninja CP307 blows that misconception out of the water.
Its ability to switch seamlessly between hot tea, cold brew, and everything in between really surprised me.
The first thing I noticed was the separate baskets for coffee and tea. No flavor crossover—thank goodness!
The system recognizes what’s in each basket and auto-adjusts the brewing process, which makes choosing between a rich coffee or a delicate tea feel effortless.
The variety of brew sizes is a game-changer. Whether I want a quick single cup or a large half-carafe for weekend gatherings, it’s got me covered.
And the 6 brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew, and Specialty—let me customize each drink exactly how I like it.
The thermal carafe keeps drinks hot for hours without a warming plate, which is perfect for busy mornings. Plus, the fold-away frother adds a touch of luxury, turning milk into froth in seconds—great for lattes or cold foam.
What really stood out is how easy it is to clean. Most parts are dishwasher safe, saving me time and hassle.
The water reservoir is straightforward to refill, and the system’s smart recognition makes brewing feel almost automatic.
Overall, this machine is versatile, sleek, and thoughtfully designed—definitely a top pick for anyone craving a hot or cold brew with minimal fuss.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- ✓ Easy to program
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Not compatible with K-Cups
- ✕ Single serve only with ground coffee
| Capacity | 12 cups (full pot), single-serve capacity approximately 10 oz |
| Power | Typically around 900-1200 watts (standard for programmable drip coffee makers) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Separate reservoirs for each side, approximately 40-50 oz each |
| Brewing Options | Regular, Bold, Hot, Iced coffee settings, with programmable timer up to 24 hours |
| Control Interface | Touchscreen display |
| Additional Features | Auto Pause & Pour, 4-hour automatic shutoff |
Ever get frustrated waiting forever for your coffee to brew just so you can finally sip your morning hot tea? I know I have.
That’s where this Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker comes in to save the day. It’s surprisingly versatile, letting me brew a full pot of coffee or just a single cup with ground tea or coffee—without fuss.
The first thing I noticed is how easy it is to use. The touchscreen display feels modern and intuitive, making programming a breeze.
I love that I can set my brew up to 24 hours in advance, so my hot tea is ready right when I wake up. The dual reservoirs are handy, letting me fill each side separately without any spills or confusion.
The AquaFlow showerhead is a nice touch—it ensures water evenly saturates the grounds, which results in richer flavor. I tried brewing both a full pot and a quick single cup, and both came out hot and flavorful.
The auto-pause feature is perfect for when I just want a quick sip before the brew finishes. Plus, the 4-hour auto shutoff gives me peace of mind about safety and energy use.
One thing I appreciated is that it’s compact, yet it does the work of two machines. It’s perfect for my limited counter space.
The mesh scoop makes adding ground tea or coffee simple and mess-free. Honestly, it turned my morning routine into a lot less stressful experience, whether I want a big pot or just a quick cup.
Ninja Hot & Iced Coffee Maker CFP307
- ✓ Fast brewing times
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✓ Great for tea and coffee
- ✕ Slightly complex carafe setup
- ✕ Larger footprint on counter
| Brew Sizes | 5 grounds brew sizes (Small, XL Cup, Travel, XL Travel Mug), 4 carafe sizes (¼, ½, ¾, Full Carafe), 6-12oz traditional pod sizes |
| Brewing Technology | Grounds and pods system with permanent reusable filter |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty, and Tea modes |
| Water System | Independent hot water system with hot and boil temperature settings |
| Frother | Built-in fold-away frother for milk frothing |
| Power | Compatible with standard household electrical outlets (assumed 120V based on product category) |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waiting for your coffee to brew, only to realize it takes ages to get that perfect cup. The Ninja Hot & Iced Coffee Maker really changes that game with its quick brew times, especially if you’re in a rush in the morning.
What immediately stands out is its 13 different brew sizes. Whether you want a quick shot of coffee, a large travel mug, or just a hot cup of tea, this machine handles it all seamlessly.
I loved how easy it was to switch between brewing a rich espresso and a refreshing iced coffee. The separate hot water system is a game-changer, too, making it perfect for tea or instant oatmeal without any flavor crossover.
The built-in frother is surprisingly effective, turning milk into smooth, velvety froth in seconds. I also appreciated the permanent, reusable filter, which preserved coffee oils for that fresh, robust flavor.
The brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—let you customize your drinks to match your mood or the occasion.
Setup was straightforward, and the machine’s sleek design looks great on the counter. The only hiccup I found was that the 4 carafe sizes aren’t as intuitive to align, but once you get the hang of it, it’s smooth sailing.
Overall, it’s versatile, fast, and offers a lot of options for both hot and cold beverages.
Cuisinart Single Serve Coffee Maker SS-10P1, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Large removable water reservoir
- ✓ Compatible with all pods
- ✓ Hot water button for tea
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 72 ounces |
| Brew Sizes Supported | 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz |
| Compatible Pods | Keurig K-Cup and other single-serve pods |
| Hot Water Function | Dedicated hot water button for tea, soup, and cocoa |
| Removable Drip Tray | Yes, accommodates most travel mugs |
| Material | Stainless steel |
As I unpacked the Cuisinart SS-10P1, the sleek stainless steel finish immediately caught my eye. It has a sturdy, compact build that feels solid in your hand, with a weight that hints at quality without being heavy.
The textured water reservoir lid offers a good grip, and the overall design looks modern and fits well on a countertop.
Filling the large 72-ounce water reservoir was a breeze—no spills, thanks to the wide opening. The removable drip tray is especially handy, making room for my taller travel mugs.
I appreciate how easy it is to clean; the parts come apart smoothly, and the surface wipes down easily.
Using the machine for hot tea was surprisingly straightforward. The dedicated hot water button heats quickly, delivering steaming water in a matter of seconds.
The adjustable brew sizes—6, 8, and 10 ounces—give nice flexibility whether I want a quick cup or a larger mug. The compatibility with any single pod, including reusable options, is a big plus for customizing my brew.
The brewing process itself is quiet but efficient. The machine heats up fast, and I love how I can set it to start brewing automatically.
The stainless steel finish stays cool to the touch, even when hot water is in use. Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable coffee maker that handles both hot drinks and tea with ease.
< p > The only minor downside is that the machine takes up some counter space, but it’s worth it for the convenience. Also, the price is on the higher side, but you’re investing in quality.
< p > If you enjoy hot tea or coffee anytime, this machine makes it simple and fast. It’s a real game-changer for mornings or entertaining guests.
What Features Should a Coffee Maker Have for Brewing Hot Tea?
When looking for the best coffee maker for brewing hot tea, certain features are essential to ensure optimal tea preparation.
- Temperature Control: A good coffee maker for tea should have precise temperature control, allowing users to brew at specific temperatures ideal for different types of tea. For instance, green tea typically brews best at lower temperatures around 175°F, while black tea requires hotter water around 200°F.
- Brewing Time Settings: Adjustable brewing time settings can enhance tea flavor extraction. Different teas have varying steeping times, and a coffee maker that allows customization can help achieve the perfect brew without over-extracting flavors.
- Water Quality Filtration: Integrated water filtration systems improve the taste of tea by removing impurities and chlorine found in tap water. This feature ensures that the final cup of tea is as flavorful and aromatic as possible, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
- Multiple Brewing Options: A coffee maker that offers multiple brewing options, such as single-serve or larger pots, is versatile for different tea occasions. This feature allows users to brew a single cup for themselves or a larger quantity for gatherings, accommodating various needs.
- Ease of Cleaning: A coffee maker with removable parts and easy-to-clean components makes maintenance simple. Regular cleaning is essential for preventing flavor contamination, especially when transitioning between brewing coffee and tea.
- Programmable Features: Programmable settings can be particularly useful for tea lovers who want to set their coffee maker in advance. This allows for a fresh pot of tea to be ready at a specific time, making it convenient for busy mornings or scheduled tea breaks.
- Glass or Stainless Steel Carafe: The material of the carafe can affect heat retention and the overall taste of the tea. A thermal stainless steel carafe will keep tea hot longer without burning it, while a glass carafe allows you to visually monitor the brewing process.
Which Coffee Makers Are Best for Brewing Tea?
The best coffee makers for brewing tea offer versatility and functionality to ensure a great tea experience.
- Single Serve Coffee Makers: These machines are designed for brewing a single cup at a time, making them ideal for tea enthusiasts who want to enjoy different types of tea without cross-flavors.
- French Press: A French press allows for full immersion brewing, which can extract rich flavors and aromas from loose leaf teas, similar to how it works for coffee.
- Pour Over Coffee Makers: These devices require manual pouring and control over water temperature and flow rate, providing an optimal brewing environment for delicate teas.
- Electric Kettles with Temperature Control: While not a traditional coffee maker, these kettles allow precise temperature settings, essential for brewing various types of tea at their ideal temperatures.
- Multi-Function Coffee Makers: These versatile machines can brew both coffee and tea, often featuring dedicated settings that accommodate the specific needs of tea brewing.
Single Serve Coffee Makers: These machines use pre-packaged coffee pods, which can also include tea pods. This makes them a convenient choice for those who want to quickly brew a cup of tea without the hassle of measuring loose leaf or tea bags.
French Press: The French press is excellent for brewing tea because it allows the leaves to steep fully in hot water, which enhances flavor extraction. It is also easy to use and clean, making it a favored option for tea lovers who appreciate a traditional brewing method.
Pour Over Coffee Makers: These require a bit more involvement, as the user manually pours hot water over the tea leaves. This method allows for complete control over the brewing time and temperature, which is crucial for maximizing the flavor profile of different teas.
Electric Kettles with Temperature Control: These kettles can heat water to precise temperatures, which is important for brewing different types of tea, as each type has its preferred brewing temperature. This ensures that the tea does not become bitter or lose its delicate flavors.
Multi-Function Coffee Makers: These devices can switch between brewing coffee and tea, often with specific settings for each beverage. This flexibility makes them a great investment for households with mixed preferences, allowing anyone to enjoy their favorite drink with minimal fuss.
What Models Have Adjustable Temperature Settings for Tea?
When selecting a coffee maker for brewing hot tea, models with adjustable temperature settings provide the flexibility needed for various types of tea. Here are some notable options from 2018:
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Breville BTM800XL Tea Maker: This model offers customizable temperature settings, ranging from 160°F to 212°F. With its specific temperature presets for different types of tea, users can brew green, black, oolong, and herbal teas optimally.
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Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp Coffee Maker: This versatile coffee maker not only brews coffee but allows you to set the water temperature, ideal for tea preparation. It delivers water at a precise temperature for various tea types, enhancing flavor extraction.
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Hamilton Beach 49980A Two-Way Brewer: This dual brewer features adjustable settings, enabling a range of hot water temperatures that work well for teas, especially when using loose leaf.
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Zojirushi CV-DCC50XT VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer: Although more of a water boiler, it features various temperature settings at 160°F, 175°F, 195°F, and 208°F, allowing tea enthusiasts to select the perfect brew temperature effortlessly.
Choosing any of these models ensures a properly brewed cup of tea, making them exceptional choices for tea lovers.
Which Coffee Makers Include a Dedicated Tea Brewing Function?
The best coffee makers that include a dedicated tea brewing function are:
- Breville BTM800XL One-Touch Tea Maker: This machine offers precise temperature control and steeping times for various types of tea.
- Hamilton Beach 49980A Two-Way Brewer: A versatile option that allows for brewing coffee on one side and tea on the other.
- Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp Coffee Maker: While primarily a coffee maker, it has a brew-pause feature that can also accommodate tea brewing.
- Capresso 465 CoffeeTeam TS: This model has a built-in grinder and can be used to brew both coffee and tea with consistent results.
Breville BTM800XL One-Touch Tea Maker: This tea maker features a unique tea basket that raises and lowers automatically in the water, ensuring optimal steeping. It accommodates various tea types, allowing users to select the perfect temperature and steeping time, resulting in a flavorful cup.
Hamilton Beach 49980A Two-Way Brewer: This dual-function brewer allows you to brew a single cup or a full pot of coffee, with a separate setting for making tea. Its unique design lets you brew coffee and tea simultaneously, making it a convenient option for households with diverse beverage preferences.
Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp Coffee Maker: This machine is primarily designed for coffee but includes a brew-pause feature that can be adapted for tea brewing. You simply need to use the hot water setting to steep your tea, although it lacks specialized tea features.
Capresso 465 CoffeeTeam TS: Known for its integrated grinder, this coffee maker also allows for brewing tea by adjusting the settings for hot water. It provides a consistent brewing temperature, ensuring that both coffee and tea are brewed to perfection, catering to the needs of tea lovers as well.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Coffee Maker for Hot Tea?
Using a coffee maker for hot tea offers several distinct benefits:
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Convenience: A coffee maker can brew tea quickly and conveniently, allowing you to prepare multiple cups in one go. With programmable settings, you can set your brew time and enjoy a fresh cup whenever you like.
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Temperature Control: Many coffee makers have precise temperature settings. This is crucial for tea, as different types benefit from specific temperatures. For example, green tea typically requires lower temperatures compared to black tea.
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Consistency: Using a coffee maker ensures a consistent brew strength and flavor. This removes the guesswork involved in traditional brewing methods and helps achieve the same taste profile with each cup.
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Versatility: Some coffee makers come with features that allow for brewing different types of beverages. This means you can prepare other hot drinks, such as herbal infusions or chai, with ease.
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Less Mess: Brewing tea using a coffee maker minimizes the mess often associated with loose leaves or tea bags. The paper filters used in many machines can capture sediments, leading to a cleaner cup.
These advantages make a coffee maker a practical tool for tea enthusiasts looking for efficiency and quality.
How Do I Choose the Right Coffee Maker for Hot Tea?
Choosing the right coffee maker for hot tea involves considering various features that enhance tea brewing.
- Temperature Control: Look for a coffee maker that allows you to set the brewing temperature, as different teas require specific temperatures for optimal flavor extraction. For example, green tea is best brewed at around 175°F, while black tea generally requires boiling water. A machine with precise temperature settings ensures you can brew each type of tea perfectly.
- Brewing Time: The best coffee makers for tea should have adjustable brewing times to match the needs of different tea varieties. Some teas need only a short steeping time, while others benefit from longer infusion periods. A machine that allows you to control brewing time will provide flexibility in creating your ideal cup.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the size and capacity of the coffee maker, especially if you plan to serve multiple people or brew larger quantities of tea. Some models offer larger carafes that can brew several cups at once, while others are designed for single servings. Choosing the right size ensures you have enough tea for your needs without waste.
- Multi-functionality: Opt for a coffee maker that can also brew tea, as some models come with specialized features for tea preparation. These machines might include tea baskets or infusers specifically designed for loose leaf tea, enhancing the brewing experience. Multi-functional machines save space and provide versatility in your beverage options.
- Ease of Cleaning: A coffee maker that is easy to clean will save you time and effort, especially if you use it frequently for tea. Look for models with removable parts or those that are dishwasher safe, as these features simplify maintenance. Regular cleaning is important to prevent the buildup of flavors from previous brews, ensuring your tea tastes fresh.
- Material Quality: The materials used in the coffee maker can affect the taste of the tea, so choose a model made with high-quality components. Stainless steel and glass are preferable as they do not retain flavors and are less likely to impart off-tastes to your brew. Additionally, durable materials often enhance the longevity of the machine.
What Do Customers Say About the Top Coffee Makers for Tea?
Finally, the Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer, while designed primarily for coffee, is praised for its individual cup brewing feature that allows tea lovers to enjoy freshly brewed tea on demand. Users appreciate the quick brew time and the high-quality taste, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen for those who enjoy both coffee and tea.
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