The Best Coffee Makers

Making coffee at home has never been more exciting or more overwhelming. Over the years, we’ve experimented with nearly every method out there, from cold-brew makers and Chemex pour-overs to moka pots and high-end Moccamasters. Each has its own charm, but not everyone wants to fuss with timers, scales, and technique before their first cup of the day. For those who crave café-quality coffee paired with the convenience of automation, a well-made drip coffee maker remains one of the smartest choices.

What sets a drip brewer apart is its balance of flavor and ease. It delivers consistently excellent coffee without demanding the precision of manual methods, making it ideal for busy mornings or households with multiple coffee drinkers. That said, coffee is deeply personal, and depending on what you’re after, whether it’s the bold intensity of espresso, the clarity of pour-over, or the versatility of a great grinder, there are plenty of other worthwhile options to explore.

This guide highlights the best coffee makers across categories so you can find the right fit for your taste, budget, and routine. From simple machines that brew a solid pot to advanced models with precise temperature control and smart features, we’ve narrowed down the choices to make your daily ritual easier and more enjoyable.

OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker

Best Overall Option

The OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker offers precise brewing with a simple interface, thermal carafe, and consistent, SCA-certified performance.

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The OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker is designed for those who value both convenience and consistency. With a 40-ounce capacity, it can brew enough coffee to keep you fueled throughout the morning, while the thermal carafe ensures the pot stays hot for hours without the need for a warming plate. Its auto-brew timer function allows you to wake up to a freshly brewed pot, making it a strong choice for anyone who wants coffee ready the moment they step into the kitchen.

One of the standout features is its automatic pre-infusion cycle, which wets the grounds before brewing to improve extraction and flavor. Combined with a brew time of under 7 minutes, this model balances speed and taste effectively. The stainless steel thermal carafe is well-made and pours smoothly, adding to the overall practicality of the design. The clean, modern look also helps it fit nicely into most kitchens without feeling bulky or outdated.

Despite its strengths, the OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker does come with a few drawbacks. The control interface is not especially intuitive, and programming the timer may take some practice. Its tall build at 17.2 inches can also be a limitation for kitchens with low-hanging cabinets, as the water tank and basket lids require extra clearance when open. Additionally, the carafe lid tends to trap traces of old coffee, requiring more thorough cleaning than a quick rinse provides.

When it comes to flavor, the OXO brewer produces a satisfying cup, but more specialized models like the Technivorm Moccamaster deliver greater nuance. That said, the OXO offers features the Moccamaster does not, such as programmability and a built-in timer, making it a more user-friendly option for those who prioritize convenience. Overall, this coffee maker is a well-rounded choice for anyone who wants reliable performance, quick brewing, and the flexibility of advanced features in one machine.

Technivorm Moccamaster KB

Best Upgrade Option

The Technivorm Moccamaster KB delivers consistently rich, flavorful coffee with precise temperature control and durable, hand-built design.

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The Technivorm Moccamaster KB is a simple yet stylish coffee maker designed for those who want ease of use paired with exceptional results. Its tall, streamlined design is complemented by a straightforward interface, making it one of the most approachable brewers in its class. Capable of brewing up to 40 ounces in about 7 minutes, the Moccamaster consistently produces nuanced, well-balanced cups of coffee.

A key advantage of the KB model is its glass carafe paired with a hot plate that maintains a stable temperature for hours without scorching the brew. The hot plate automatically shuts off after four hours, which helps conserve energy while still offering plenty of time to enjoy a pot throughout the morning. For those who prefer longer heat retention, the thermal carafe KBT version provides even greater insulation, though it lacks the hot plate convenience of the KB.

Both the KB and KBT models allow for manual control over the brewing process by giving you the option to open or close the filter basket mid-brew. This feature lets you fine-tune extraction, offering flexibility without complicating the process. Both versions also come with a generous five-year warranty, reflecting the brand’s reputation for durability and thoughtful craftsmanship.

The Moccamaster does come with some limitations. It lacks features such as a built-in clock, a descaling reminder, or any alert to signal when brewing is complete. It also carries a higher price than many competitors, including other well-regarded drip machines. Cleaning is easier with the KB, as its glass carafe has a wide mouth and is dishwasher-safe, while the KBT requires a bottle brush due to its narrow thermal carafe opening.

At the end of the day, the Technivorm Moccamaster KB is an excellent choice for those who want a straightforward machine that emphasizes quality over bells and whistles. Its consistent brewing performance, beautiful design, and long warranty make it a standout option for coffee lovers who value flavor and durability.

Ninja CE251 Coffee Maker

Best Budget Option

The Ninja CE251 brews up to 12 cups with programmable settings, adjustable brew strength, and a warming plate to keep coffee hot for hours.

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The Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker CE251 is a reliable, budget-friendly option designed for anyone who wants a straightforward machine that brews consistently good coffee. Priced under $100, it is especially appealing to those who often use pre-ground beans, though it performs just as well with freshly ground coffee. With a generous 60-ounce capacity, it can brew up to 12 cups, making it a practical choice for households or shared spaces.

This model stands out among budget drip machines for producing a hot, well-balanced cup. It offers convenient brewing options with settings for both a classic taste and a stronger, richer flavor. The removable water reservoir is easy to read and fill, reducing spills and simplifying preparation. Its intuitive programming functions also make it easy to schedule brew times in advance, so coffee is ready when you need it without unnecessary effort.

While the machine delivers solid performance overall, its carafe design has some drawbacks. The lid screws on and off, which is less convenient than the flip-top designs found on some competitors. Although this is a minor inconvenience, it does make pouring and cleaning slightly less seamless than it could be.

With a brew time of about 13 minutes, the Ninja CE251 is not the fastest model available, but it compensates with dependability and simplicity. It is well-suited for anyone who values affordability and ease of use in a coffee maker that can handle daily brewing demands. Overall, this machine provides excellent value, making it one of the strongest choices in the budget category.

Espro P3 French Press

Best French Press

The Espro P3 French Press uses a double micro-filter to brew rich, smooth coffee with less grit and a durable, heat-resistant glass design.

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The Espro P3 French Press is a solid choice for coffee drinkers who value a straightforward, fast brewing method that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It is designed for those who want something simple to master while still delivering a consistently excellent cup. With a 32-ounce capacity, it’s large enough to brew multiple servings, making it practical for both solo use and sharing.

One of the standout qualities of the Espro P3 is the way it balances ease of use with a cleaner taste than most traditional French presses. Thanks to its bucket-shaped double filter, which uses a finer mesh than competitors, it produces coffee that is remarkably grit-free, much closer to what you might expect from a pour-over. The filter also ensures that once the plunger is pressed, grounds are kept separate from the liquid, preventing bitterness from oversteeping. This design means your coffee stays bright and flavorful even if you pour a second or third cup later.

Durability is the main drawback compared to stainless steel models. The glass beaker, while functional, is fragile and can break if dropped or knocked against a hard surface. However, Espro sells replacement parts, including beakers and filters, so a mishap doesn’t require replacing the entire brewer. This availability of parts makes the P3 more sustainable and cost-effective over time.

Visually, the Espro P3 is not as stylish as classic options like the Bodum Chambord, and its dual filter can be slightly more difficult to clean. Even so, most users will find that the minor extra effort is well worth it for the improved taste and texture of the brew. The emphasis here is on performance over aesthetics, and the P3 delivers consistently excellent results in a relatively affordable package.

At the end of the day, the Espro P3 French Press combines the simplicity of French press brewing with a unique design that elevates the clarity and flavor of the final cup. It’s not the most elegant option on the counter, but its thoughtful engineering makes it one of the most practical choices for everyday coffee lovers who prioritize quality in each pour.

OXO Good Grips Cold Brew

Best Cold Brew Option

The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker produces smooth, low-acid cold brew concentrate with an easy-to-use design.

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The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker is designed for people who want to make better iced coffee at home. Unlike hot coffee that’s refrigerated after brewing, cold brew uses a slow extraction process that results in fewer bitter flavors. The result is a sweeter, smoother cup of coffee that highlights the natural sweetness of the beans. This makes it a great option for anyone who wants a milder-tasting brew that can be enjoyed over ice or mixed with milk.

What sets this brewer apart is its thoughtful design and ease of use. The OXO Good Grips consistently produces cold coffee with balanced acidity, a stronger aroma, and a cleaner finish compared with other models. Its rainmaker lid evenly distributes water over the grounds, which ensures proper extraction. The stainless steel mesh filter is reusable, eliminating the need for paper filters, and the glass carafe makes it easy to store concentrate in the fridge without transferring to another container.

This coffee maker yields about 24 to 28 ounces of concentrate, which is enough for 12 to 14 servings once diluted. That makes it well-suited for those who want to prepare a week’s worth of cold brew in advance. For people with smaller kitchens or those who prefer to make smaller batches, OXO also offers a compact version that works the same way but takes up less counter and refrigerator space.

There are a few drawbacks, though none are significant enough to detract from its overall value. Some brewers, such as the Filtron Cold Water Coffee Concentrate Brewer, produce a smoother and mellower flavor. However, many prefer the OXO’s stronger, bolder taste, and the design is more straightforward to use and clean. While other systems can feel cumbersome, the OXO strikes a better balance between usability and flavor.

In all, the OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker delivers a combination of performance, consistency, and convenience. Its reliable results, generous capacity, and intuitive design make it one of the best choices for anyone looking to enjoy cold brew at home without the fuss.

Nespresso Essenza Mini

Best Pod Espresso Option

A compact espresso machine that delivers rich flavor, simple one-touch operation, and consistent performance in a space-saving design.

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The Nespresso Essenza Mini is designed for people who value speed and convenience in their daily coffee routine. It is one of the quickest and simplest ways to prepare an espresso-style drink at home. With just the push of a button and the insertion of a capsule, the machine delivers a consistent shot of espresso in under a minute, making it ideal for those with busy mornings or anyone who wants a no-fuss option for quality coffee.

What makes the Essenza Mini stand out is its combination of compact size and reliable performance. Despite its small footprint, it produces smooth, balanced espresso that captures the flavor and aroma Nespresso machines are known for. The machine heats quickly and operates with minimal effort, offering the core benefits of the Nespresso system, efficiency, ease, and consistent results. Although pods are pricier than ground coffee, they remain widely available and deliver dependable quality with little cleanup required.

The machine’s compactness does come with some trade-offs. Its 20.3-ounce water tank holds enough for about 10 espressos before needing a refill, and the used-capsule tray accommodates only six pods. Both are easy to manage but require more frequent attention compared with larger models. The drip tray must also be removed to fit bigger mugs, which can cause a few drops to spill onto the counter, though this is a minor inconvenience easily resolved with a quick wipe.

Another limitation is that the Essenza Mini is designed exclusively for espresso. Those who want the flexibility to make larger coffee servings, closer to drip-style brews, may prefer a model like the Nespresso VertuoPlus. Still, if your focus is on straightforward espresso drinks, the Essenza Mini does the job exceptionally well without taking up much counter space.

With its compact design, user-friendly operation, and reliable results, the Nespresso Essenza Mini offers an excellent balance of convenience and performance. It’s a strong option for anyone who wants fast, flavorful espresso without the complexity of a traditional machine.

When it comes to brewing at home, the most important factor is finding a method that matches your preferences and lifestyle. Coffee is more than just a drink, it’s a ritual that can shape the rhythm of your day. Whether that means the precision of pour-over, the strength of espresso, or the convenience of a programmable machine, the right setup can make your mornings smoother and more enjoyable.

The landscape of coffee makers today is broad, offering everything from compact pod systems to advanced brewers with precise temperature control. This variety makes it easier than ever to find a machine that balances taste, convenience, and design. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by options, consider what matters most: how much effort you want to put into each brew, how much coffee you typically drink, and the flavors you enjoy most.

Ultimately, the best coffee maker is the one that encourages you to enjoy the process as much as the result. By choosing a machine that aligns with your habits, you’ll not only get better coffee but also a more enjoyable daily routine.