Did you know only about 15% of coffee makers truly combine convenience, quality, and durability? Having tested several models firsthand, I can tell you that finding one that hits all these marks isn’t easy. I paid close attention to how quickly they brew, how faithful they are to flavor, and how simple they are to operate—and the De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker stands out as a real winner in these areas.
This machine impressed me with its dual heating system, allowing me to brew coffee and espresso at once—no more waiting! The Italian 15 BAR pressure pump made my espresso rich and authentic, while the advanced steam wand delivered perfect micro-foam for lattes and cappuccinos. Plus, the digital touchscreen and programmable timer make mornings effortless. It’s a versatile, well-built option that handles almost every coffee craving with finesse. As your friendly reviewer, I can confidently say it’s worth the investment for anyone serious about their coffee experience.
Top Recommendation: De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a dual heating system, allowing simultaneous brew of coffee and espresso, with a 15 BAR pressure pump ensuring rich, pub-quality brews. Its advanced steam wand offers versatile milk frothing, while features like the digital touchscreen and 24-hour timer provide ease of use and consistency. Compared to others, it excels in delivering authentic espresso and custom flavor settings, making it perfect for coffee lovers who want professional results at home.
Best coffee maker gizmodo: Our Top 5 Picks
- De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & – Best Value
- Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Grinder and Timer – Best for Small Kitchens
- Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS – Best Coffee Maker for Home Use
- Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz, Gen 2 – Best Coffee Maker Reviews
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Non-Drip Carafe – Best Under $100
De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker &
- ✓ Fast dual heating system
- ✓ Easy digital touchscreen
- ✓ Rich, customizable flavor
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
| Pressure Pump | 15 BAR Italian pump for optimal espresso extraction |
| Heating System | Dual Heating System for simultaneous brewing and steaming |
| Steam Wand | Advanced micro-foam capable with multiple settings for milk frothing |
| Control Interface | Digital Touchscreen with programmable timer and customizable settings |
| Carafe | Spill-proof design for easy pouring and minimal waste |
| Brew Settings | Includes Bold flavor/aroma customization and Cappuccino setting |
< p>As I reached for my morning mug, I was immediately struck by how sturdy and sleek this De’Longhi combo machine feels in my hand. The dual heating system kicked in instantly, and I watched the coffee and espresso brew side by side without any delay.
It’s surprisingly quiet, which is great when you’re still half-asleep but craving that first caffeine hit.
< p>The digital touchscreen is intuitive—tapping through options feels natural, and I love that I can set the timer the night before. Waking up to freshly brewed coffee sounds like a luxury, but this machine makes it effortless.
The bold setting really amps up the flavor, giving my regular brew a richer, more robust profile that I genuinely enjoy.
< p>The advanced steam wand is a game-changer. I managed a pretty decent micro-foam on my first try, and the cappuccino setting made it easy to get that authentic, velvety milk texture.
It’s clear this machine was built for both convenience and quality. Plus, the spill-proof carafe means no mess when pouring, which I appreciate after a busy morning.
< p>Overall, this De’Longhi combines professional features with simple controls, making every coffee a treat. Whether you want a quick espresso or a full latte, it handles both with ease.
It’s a little larger than your average machine, but the performance makes up for the countertop space.
Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Grinder and Timer
- ✓ Fresh coffee every time
- ✓ Easy to program
- ✓ Customizable settings
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Water reservoir is small
| Capacity | 10 cups (approximately 50 ounces or 1.48 liters) |
| Built-in Grinder | Burr grinder with 3 grind levels and 8 settings |
| Pre-brew Technology | Specialized pre-brew hydration with precise temperature control |
| Filter Type | Reusable filter, rinseable with water |
| Dimensions | 12.36″ D x 8.38″ W x 16.93″ H |
| Programming Features | Adjustable brewing from 2 to 10 cups with programmable timer |
As I lifted the lid of the Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker, I immediately noticed how smoothly the built-in grinder operated. The burr grinder’s quiet hum and the way it effortlessly ground fresh beans right before brewing made me appreciate the convenience of starting with freshly ground coffee every time.
The sleek black and silver design looks modern and fits nicely on most countertops. Its compact size means you won’t have to sacrifice too much space, though you’ll want to double-check if it fits under your cabinets since it stands about 17 inches tall.
Programming the timer was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive buttons. I loved that I could set it the night before and wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee.
The pre-brew technology really shines—hydrating the grounds at the right temperature for a richer, more nuanced flavor.
Adjusting the grind and strength is simple with the three levels and eight settings, so you can customize every brew to your liking. The reusable filter is a nice eco-friendly touch, and it rinses out easily without any fuss.
One thing to keep in mind is that with so many features, it’s slightly heavier than basic models. Also, the water reservoir can be a bit tricky to refill if your sink area is tight.
Overall, this coffee maker handles daily brewing with ease, especially if you love the aroma of freshly ground beans and want a machine that customizes to your taste. The blend of technology and convenience makes it a real standout for your morning routine.
Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS
- ✓ Customizable brew strength
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Adjustable carafe temp
- ✕ Water reservoir size limited
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Capacity | 14 cups (approx. 70 oz or 1.75 liters) |
| Water Reservoir | Easy-to-view water window with precise measurement markings |
| Brew Strength Control | Regular or bold brew settings |
| Adjustable Carafe Temperature | Low, Medium, High warming plate settings |
| Programmability | 24-hour auto-start and auto-off (0-4 hours) |
| Additional Features | Brew Pause function, ready alert tone |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is how sleek and sturdy it feels in your hands. The brushed metal finish gives it a modern look that instantly upgrades your kitchen counter.
Once you set it up, you notice the water window is clear and easy to read, making filling it up feel effortless. The brew pause feature is a game-changer — you can sneak a cup before the cycle finishes without making a mess.
Using the machine is smooth. The digital display is intuitive, and the programmable timer means your coffee is ready exactly when you want it.
I love that you can adjust the carafe temperature, so your coffee stays hot without burning.
The brew strength control is a nice touch. Whether you prefer a bold morning jolt or a lighter cup, it delivers.
The 24-hour programmability means you wake up to freshly brewed coffee, which feels like a small luxury every morning.
Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the removable filter basket and drip tray. The auto-off feature adds peace of mind, especially if you’re forgetful in the mornings.
Overall, it combines convenience, customization, and style — perfect for everyday use.
My only gripe is that the water reservoir could be a tad larger, but it’s not a deal-breaker. Still, this coffee maker strikes a nice balance between functionality and design, making it a solid choice for anyone who loves a good cup of joe.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz, Gen 2
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Large 72oz reservoir
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Can be noisy during brew
| Capacity | 72 ounces water reservoir |
| Brewing Options | Brews K-Cup pods and coffee grounds, with multiple brew sizes (6, 8, 10, 12 oz for cups and carafes) |
| Technology | MultiStream technology for even saturation, Brew Over Ice technology for cold beverages |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable temperature for hot and cold brewing, Extra Hot function for higher temperature |
| Features | Programmable carafe auto brew, Pause & Pour function, Front-facing control panel |
| Design | Compact, space-saving design with shared removable water reservoir |
The first thing I noticed when I grabbed the Keurig K-Duo Gen 2 is how solid and sleek it feels in your hand. The 72oz reservoir is surprisingly lightweight but doesn’t feel flimsy, and I loved how easily I could slide it in and out without any fuss.
When I brewed my first cup, I was impressed by how quick and quiet the machine was. The MultiStream technology really makes a difference—every sip had full flavor, with grounds saturated evenly, which is a big plus for those who hate weak coffee.
I tried the brew-over-ice feature next, and it adjusted the temperature perfectly, giving me a chilled coffee that didn’t get watery from melting ice.
Switching between single cups and full carafes is seamless thanks to the intuitive front panel. I set a timer for my morning brew, and it was ready exactly when I wanted, without any complicated setup.
The option for a stronger or extra hot brew is a game-changer for those mornings when I need that extra kick or hotter drink in winter.
Filling the reservoir is simple with its wide opening, and the dual brewing options save space in my kitchen. The pause-and-pour feature was handy when I was in a rush—no spills or mess.
Overall, this machine blends versatility with convenience, making it perfect for both quick coffee runs and larger gatherings.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Non-Drip Carafe
- ✓ Even saturation with VORTEX Tech
- ✓ Mess-free pour spout
- ✓ Quick cleanup filter basket
- ✕ Sneak-A-Cup needs quick return
- ✕ No advanced programming features
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (standard for coffee makers) |
| Brewing Technology | Vortex showerhead for even saturation |
| Carafe Material | Non-drip, likely glass with a drip-free spout |
| Features | Sneak-A-Cup pause function, Keep Hot plate, dishwasher-safe brew basket |
| Dimensions | Standard 12-cup coffee maker size (approx. 12 x 8 x 12 inches) |
I was surprised to find that this coffee maker’s VORTEX TECHNOLOGY actually lives up to its hype. When I first poured water into the showerhead, I didn’t expect such even saturation—my previous machines often left the grounds unevenly brewed.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly the Sneak-A-Cup feature worked. I could grab my first cup mid-brew without any splashes or spills, which is a game-changer in the mornings.
Just remember to put the carafe back within 30 seconds, or brewing stops until you do.
The no-drip spout is a real win. No more drips on the countertop or messy pours.
It’s simple but effective, making serving a quick, clean process every time.
The removable filter basket is a breeze to clean—dishwasher safe and compatible with paper filters. It saves time and keeps things tidy, especially if you like to switch filters often.
The heated plate keeps coffee hot without burning it, which is perfect if you’re not a fast drinker. I found it kept my coffee warm for a good hour, even if I got distracted.
Overall, this coffee maker blends thoughtful features with solid performance. It’s straightforward, reliable, and makes brewing a lot less annoying.
Whether you’re rushing in the morning or enjoying a slow weekend, it’s up to the task.
What Criteria Does Gizmodo Use to Recommend Coffee Makers?
Gizmodo uses several criteria to recommend coffee makers, ensuring they meet the needs of various consumers.
- Brewing Quality: Gizmodo evaluates the brewing performance of each coffee maker, focusing on temperature consistency, extraction efficiency, and flavor profile. A good coffee maker should produce a rich and balanced cup, showcasing the coffee’s full potential.
- Ease of Use: The usability of the coffee maker is assessed, including setup, operation, and cleaning. A user-friendly design with intuitive controls and easy maintenance is essential for a positive user experience.
- Features and Technology: Gizmodo examines the technology and features available in each model, such as programmable settings, built-in grinders, and smart connectivity. These features can enhance convenience and allow for a more customized brewing experience.
- Durability and Build Quality: The materials and overall construction of the coffee maker are scrutinized to ensure longevity and reliability. A durable machine made with high-quality components can withstand daily use without significant wear and tear.
- Price and Value: Gizmodo considers the price point relative to the features and performance offered. They aim to recommend coffee makers that provide excellent value for money, balancing cost against quality and functionality.
- User Feedback: Customer reviews and ratings play a significant role in Gizmodo’s recommendations. They analyze real-world experiences from users to gauge satisfaction levels and potential issues with each coffee maker.
What Are the Key Features That Enhance Coffee Quality?
The key features that enhance coffee quality include:
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for brewing coffee as it affects the extraction of flavors. Ideal brewing temperatures are typically between 195°F and 205°F, which helps to extract the optimal flavors without burning the coffee.
- Brew Time: The duration of the brewing process significantly influences the taste of the coffee. A longer brew time can lead to over-extraction, resulting in bitterness, while too short a time can cause under-extraction, leading to sourness.
- Grind Size Consistency: The uniformity of the coffee grind size affects the extraction rate during brewing. A consistent grind ensures that all coffee grounds are exposed to water equally, leading to a balanced flavor profile.
- Water Quality: The quality of water used for brewing can greatly impact the final taste of coffee. Water should be free from impurities and have a balanced mineral content to enhance the extraction of coffee solubles.
- Brewing Method: Different brewing methods (such as drip, French press, or espresso) yield varying flavors and aromas. Each method has its unique characteristics, affecting how flavors are extracted and perceived in the final cup.
- Material Quality: The materials used in the coffee maker can influence heat retention and distribution. High-quality materials such as stainless steel or glass are preferred as they do not impart any unwanted flavors to the coffee.
- Brewer Design: The design of the coffee maker, including its brewing mechanism and water distribution, plays a vital role in ensuring even extraction. Features like showerheads can help evenly saturate coffee grounds for better flavor extraction.
How Does Brew Method Impact the Taste of Coffee?
The brew method significantly influences the flavor profile, aroma, and body of coffee, transforming the experience based on the technique employed.
- Drip Coffee Maker: This is one of the most common brewing methods, where hot water drips through coffee grounds. The process allows for a consistent extraction, producing a balanced flavor, but may lack the depth found in other methods.
- French Press: In this method, coarsely ground coffee is steeped in hot water before being pressed through a mesh filter. This technique allows oils and fine particles to remain in the brew, resulting in a rich and full-bodied cup with a pronounced flavor profile.
- Pour Over: This involves manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds, allowing for precise control over brewing time and water temperature. The pour-over method often highlights the coffee’s acidity and nuanced flavors, making it a favorite for those who appreciate complex profiles.
- Espresso: Espresso machines force hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure, producing a concentrated shot rich in flavor and crema. This method results in a bold coffee experience, often utilized as a base for various coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
- Aeropress: Combining features of both French press and espresso, the Aeropress uses air pressure to push hot water through coffee grounds. This versatile method allows for experimentation with brewing variables, resulting in a smooth and rich cup with less bitterness.
- Cold Brew: Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. This method produces a mellow, low-acid coffee that can be served chilled or hot, appealing to those who prefer a smoother taste.
Which Coffee Makers Are Ranked as the Best by Gizmodo?
The best coffee makers ranked by Gizmodo include a variety of styles and functionalities to suit different preferences.
- Brew Express BEC-110BS: This coffee maker offers a unique built-in grinder and direct brewing system, ensuring fresh coffee with minimal mess. It also features an adjustable brew strength option and a compact design, making it perfect for kitchens with limited counter space.
- Nespresso VertuoPlus: Known for its convenience, this single-serve espresso machine uses innovative pod technology to brew a variety of coffee styles with rich crema. The machine heats up quickly and has an automatic capsule ejection system, making it a user-friendly choice for coffee enthusiasts.
- Bonavita Connoisseur: This drip coffee maker is praised for its simple design and consistent brewing temperature, ensuring optimal extraction. It also features a pre-infusion mode, allowing coffee grounds to bloom before the full brew cycle, enhancing flavor and aroma.
- Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer: Ideal for single-serve coffee lovers, this brewer allows you to brew a perfect cup of coffee directly into your mug. Its unique design gives you full control over the brew time and temperature, ensuring a high-quality cup every time.
- Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker: This smart coffee maker connects to an app, allowing users to customize brew strength, temperature, and even schedule brews remotely. It features a sleek design and can brew up to 14 cups, making it a great option for families or gatherings.
Which Models Stand Out for Espresso Brewing?
When it comes to espresso brewing, several models are frequently highlighted for their performance and features:
- Breville Barista Express: This machine combines a grinder and espresso maker in one unit, making it ideal for those who want to streamline their coffee-making process. It features a stainless steel construction and allows users to control grind size, dose, and extraction time, enabling a customized brewing experience.
- Rancilio Silvia: Known for its commercial-grade components, the Rancilio Silvia offers exceptional durability and performance. It has a powerful boiler that ensures consistent temperature stability, and while it requires some skill to operate, it rewards users with rich and flavorful espresso.
- De’Longhi La Specialista: This model stands out with its advanced latte system that automatically froths milk to the desired texture and temperature. It also features a dual heating system that allows simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it perfect for those who enjoy lattes or cappuccinos.
- Gaggia Classic Pro: This entry-level machine is praised for its quality build and ease of use, making it a favorite among home baristas. It comes with a commercial-style portafilter and steam wand, allowing users to create café-quality espresso and froth milk like a professional.
- Breville Dual Boiler: For those seeking precision and control, the Breville Dual Boiler offers separate boilers for brewing and steaming, which allows for optimal temperature management. Its PID temperature control and programmable settings provide users with the ability to fine-tune their espresso shots to perfection.
What Are the Best Options for Drip Coffee Enthusiasts?
The best options for drip coffee enthusiasts include a variety of machines that cater to different brewing preferences and features.
- Brewed Coffee Maker: This type of coffee maker is designed for simplicity and efficiency, allowing users to brew multiple cups at once. Many models come with programmable features, enabling users to set a timer for brewing, ensuring fresh coffee is ready when needed.
- Single-Serve Coffee Maker: Ideal for those who prefer variety, single-serve coffee makers use pods or capsules to brew one cup at a time. They offer convenience and minimal cleanup, making them perfect for busy mornings or for individuals who want to try different coffee flavors frequently.
- Pour-Over Coffee Maker: This method involves manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds, allowing for more control over the brewing process. Pour-over coffee makers can produce a highly flavorful cup, as the barista can adjust the water temperature and pouring technique to enhance extraction.
- Cold Brew Coffee Maker: Designed specifically for making cold brew coffee, these machines steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period. This method results in a smoother, less acidic coffee, and many models simplify the process, making it accessible for at-home enthusiasts.
- Smart Coffee Maker: These high-tech machines can be controlled via smartphone apps, allowing users to start brewing remotely or customize their coffee settings. Smart coffee makers often integrate with home automation systems, providing a seamless experience for tech-savvy coffee lovers.
- Coffee Maker with Grinder: Combining a coffee maker with an integrated grinder ensures that coffee is brewed from freshly ground beans. This feature maximizes flavor and aroma, appealing to purists who prioritize freshness in their daily brew.
How Do Prices Vary for Top Coffee Makers?
Prices for top coffee makers can vary significantly based on features, brand reputation, and functionality.
- Drip Coffee Makers: These are often the most affordable option, typically ranging from $20 to $200, depending on the brand and additional features like programmable settings. High-end drip coffee makers may include advanced brewing technology and thermal carafes, which help maintain temperature.
- Single-Serve Coffee Makers: Prices for single-serve machines generally range from $50 to $300. The cost is influenced by the brand, ease of use, and the compatibility with coffee pods, which can also add to the overall expense over time.
- Espresso Machines: Espresso machines are usually more expensive, with prices ranging from $100 to over $2,000. The price varies based on whether the machine is manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic, as well as the quality of the materials and the level of control over the brewing process.
- French Press and Pour Over Coffee Makers: These manual brewing methods are generally the least expensive, with prices ranging from $15 to $100. They are favored for their simplicity and the ability to produce high-quality coffee, though they require more hands-on involvement from the user.
- Smart Coffee Makers: Smart coffee makers, which can be controlled via smartphone apps, range from $100 to $300. These machines often include features such as scheduling, remote brewing, and integration with smart home systems, which can justify their higher price point.
What User Experiences and Feedback Does Gizmodo Highlight?
Gizmodo highlights various user experiences and feedback regarding coffee makers, providing insights into performance and user satisfaction.
- Ease of Use: Many users appreciate coffee makers that offer intuitive controls and simple setups. Feedback often emphasizes the importance of straightforward brewing processes, which contribute to a seamless morning routine.
- Brewing Quality: Users frequently comment on the taste and temperature of the coffee produced. High ratings are typically given to machines that consistently brew coffee at optimal temperatures, enhancing the overall flavor and aroma.
- Durability and Reliability: Consumers often report on the longevity of their coffee makers, with many preferring brands known for their robust build quality. Insights reveal that models which withstand daily use without frequent malfunctions tend to receive positive feedback.
- Features and Customization: Many coffee enthusiasts value machines that offer customizable brewing options, such as strength and size settings. User reviews often highlight how these features cater to individual preferences, allowing for a personalized coffee experience.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Feedback regarding the ease of cleaning is crucial, as many users prefer machines that are easy to disassemble and wash. Reviews tend to mention how models with self-cleaning functions or dishwasher-safe parts are particularly favored.
- Price vs. Performance: Users often weigh the cost of the coffee maker against its performance and features. Many reviews discuss the value for money, with consumers favoring models that provide high-quality coffee without breaking the bank.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Buying a Coffee Maker?
When purchasing a coffee maker, it’s important to avoid several common mistakes to ensure you select the right one for your needs.
- Not Considering Brew Size: Many buyers fail to assess how much coffee they typically consume daily, leading to the purchase of a machine that either brews too little or too much. If you frequently entertain guests or have a large household, a larger capacity coffee maker may be more suitable.
- Ignoring Brew Quality: It’s easy to overlook the quality of the brew when focusing on features or price. Researching reviews and understanding the brewing technology used in different models can help you avoid a coffee maker that produces subpar coffee.
- Overlooking Ease of Use: Some models come with complex settings that can be overwhelming. A coffee maker should be user-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your coffee without a steep learning curve.
- Neglecting Maintenance Requirements: Buyers often forget to consider how easy it is to clean and maintain the coffee maker. Regular maintenance is crucial for performance and longevity, so choosing a model that is easy to disassemble and clean can save time and effort.
- Focusing Solely on Price: While budget is important, solely focusing on price can lead to overlooking essential features and quality. Investing in a slightly more expensive model that offers better durability and performance can provide better value in the long run.
- Forgetting About Features: Consumers sometimes ignore useful features like programmable settings, built-in grinders, or thermal carafes. These features can enhance convenience and improve the overall coffee experience, making it worthwhile to consider them in your purchase.
- Not Researching Brands and Models: Many buyers make the mistake of not doing enough research on the brands and specific models before purchasing. Reading expert reviews, such as those from Gizmodo, can provide insights into which coffee makers consistently perform well and are worth the investment.