The Best Drip Coffee Machines
Drip coffee makers can be powerful machines that permit hands-free making. However, they can also be big and bulky, taking up valuable counter space or even a spot under the cabinet.
The top drip machines are simple and easy to use. Some are equipped with extras that make your morning cup of coffee more customizable with timers that can be programmed and self-cleaning modes.
1. De'Longhi TrueBrew
The De'Longhi TrueBrew can be used to make coffee in just one step - from whole beans to a cup of coffee in just two presses. It has a built-in burr grinder (taken directly from De'Longhi's espresso machines) which measures out the correct amount of coffee grounds and compacts them prior to making the coffee - eliminating pods and filters made of plastic.
It also comes with a variety of settings to suit the size of your cup or style, from 3oz espresso drinks, up to 16oz of iced coffee and 40oz for the standard carafe. It can pour coffee into any container you like, whether it's a large mug or a tiny espresso cup. It even creates tea!
Bean Extract Technology is a jargony term that manufacturers love to use. It "adapts and grinds" beans according to the beans you choose. This is all marketing. It's important that it's easy to use, quick and doesn't cause many mess while making coffee. It's not able to make a quick shot or a long shot espresso as well as it doesn't include steam wand. If you're looking for these features, I would suggest checking out the Moccamaster KBGV Select.
2. Cuisinart MultiServe
This is among the best drip coffee machines on the market. It makes consistently delicious, hot cups of coffee that brew efficiently.
We also appreciated the flexibility of modifying the brewing process. You can choose your cup size (from 5-ounce single servings up to a full carafe) and your desired strength by simply turning a dial, as well as choose between the french press or a regular setting. You can also make cold brew using the touch of a button, or choose from a range of specialty options like Over Ice and Roasted.
The only issue is that the design doesn't match some of the more sophisticated models we've tried. For example the Smeg drip's rounded machine looks like an Easter egg and is a welcome departure from boxy competitors. But its slender water tank and narrow opening could be difficult to navigate, particularly in the dark when the brew is being made. It requires a bit more concentration and effort to get going in the early morning.
3. Keurig K-Cup brewer
Keurig single serve coffee makers utilize K cups that are pre-packaged that eliminate the need to measure or grind grounds. They can also be controlled in the time of brewing. These machines can also brew coffee in under two minutes. This is significantly quicker than a drip machine.
But the Keurigs we've tested make quite a mess, much more than drip machines. The spout, which spews hot coffee creates a 2 inch splash zone that releases drops of water on the drip tray, machine and counter. They also create a bothersome loud sputtering sound when brewing.
Despite the mess, the Keurigs we've tested are very efficient. The K-Cafe with Smart Keurig is the most sophisticated model, with a removable reservoir, four sizes for K-cups, three temperature settings, and a menu that can be customized. It also comes with a milk frother which can be used to froth whole, skim or non-dairy milk. This is a great option for those who wish to brew different coffee every morning or for families with large numbers who require the capacity of a larger.
The Keurig Instant Pod is a excellent option for those who is looking for a simple, easy-to-use single-serve machine. It has a 78-ounce tank that can brew several cups before having to be refilled. Additionally, it can create a cup of coffee using the coffee you grind yourself, which is a rare feature for the world of Keurig. The controls are simple and easy to use, but the machine communicates with tones and chirps, instead of a screen which makes it difficult to determine when a brew is ready.
4. Cuisinart Drip Machine
This durable, mid-priced machine comes with all the features that you need to start your day. It has a big 14-cup reservoir, as well as a clear indicator of the level of water. It is simple to use because of the large buttons with clearly labeled labels. The grinder and filter that can be removed can both be cleaned in the sink. This means that you don't have to scrub out the grounds from hard-to reach places. It also includes a handy brew-strength selector that lets you select from three different settings including bold.
The reservoir comes with a charcoal-filter that helps remove metals and unpleasant flavors as well as odors from tap water. This could make your coffee taste dull or burnt. This means less maintenance, and a better tasting cup of coffee.
Another benefit is that the programmability feature lets you to set your coffee brew to a certain time. The Pause button lets you make a cup of coffee or two before the whole pot is brewing. This can be helpful for busy mornings, when you require an additional boost of caffeine. It also has a sleek design that will look more at home on the counter of your kitchen compared to the majority of drip coffee machines.
5. Ratio Six
Similar to its older sibling, the Ratio Eight, the Six offers a premium experience at a slightly more affordable price and a smaller footprint. The single-button system emulates the pour-over process, and comes with a precision measured flow of water and the perfect temperature for coffee. The machine makes use of a powerful 1400 watts to heat water and complete the full brewing process in about five to six minutes. This is much less than the majority of the less expensive models we have tested. The speedy brewing time is partly due to the bloom cycle, which allows coffee grounds to settle before the shower head is able to deliver the remainder of the hot water to ensure optimal extraction.
The Six uses a heat shield that is unique to keep the water at a perfect temperature and protect the spray head. This is one of only a handful of brewers to have been Golden Cup certified by Specialty Coffee Association. This means that it keeps the correct temperature throughout the cycle of brewing.
In terms of design in terms of style, the Six is sleek and minimal, with a stainless steel carafe that is placed on the top of a filter holder that can accommodate Melitta flat bottom filters. The carafe that is insulated keeps the coffee warm without the need for a heated plate and helps keep the flavor intact.
6. Gevi 10-Cup Coffee Maker
The Gevi is a compact, sleek coffee maker that doesn't occupy much counter space. It brews a great tasting cup of coffee. The touchscreen panel has cute icons that allow you to select single-touch commands. For instance you can select Bold or If you're only making half a pot of coffee, you can use the One to Four Cups feature. The machine lets you set the timer, as well as turn on or off the audible tone that signifies the end of the brewing cycle.
The built-in grinder as well as the ability to dial in the size and strength of your coffee is a nice touch. It takes a little time to become familiar with the machine however once you've mastered it, it is intuitive. It has many of the features you would expect to find in higher-end models.
The only drawback is that it's not able to brew the entire carafe in one go, which can be a problem when you're serving multiple people. It's a good choice when you're looking for an espresso maker with a built in grinder, and the capability to make different drinks. It has a one year warranty and excellent customer support.
7. Moccamaster KBGV
The Moccamaster KBGV is an excellent drip coffee maker that's built to last. It's manufactured by Technivorm in the Netherlands and comes with a five-year warranty. linked resource site is set atop a warmer that keeps the coffee at a perfect temperature for up to six minutes. It can be programmed to work with a full pot or a half pot, and is certified to brew coffee at recommended temperatures and times by the Specialty Coffee Association. It also comes with a "practically incognito drip stopper" which is a small lever below the brew basket, which stops the flow of coffee when you remove the carafe during the brewing process.
This machine is more expensive than others on the market but it's worth the cost for those who want to have consistently great coffee without having to spend a lot in the kitchen. It's easy to clean and all components that come into contact with water and grounds are easily accessible. The brew process is slower than other models but still faster than pour-over brewing. In addition, the Moccamaster's distinctive design, which is reminiscent of tools used in workshops or scientific devices will add the perfect touch of elegance to your kitchen.