In the second part of our coffee maker review series, we delve deeper into the world of brewing perfection. After rigorously testing a wide range of models, our coffee experts have identified the top contenders that stand out for their performance, design, and consistency. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a dedicated enthusiast, this guide will help you find the perfect coffee maker to elevate your morning routine.
6 Best Single Serve
Breville-Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee Maker
Pod coffee makers are good when you’re in a rush or just want a good cup of coffee you know you like. Out of all the pod machines we tested, this one stands out for being the most versatile and delicious.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a single-serve coffee maker that uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules to work. Each capsule is equipped with a barcode that tells the machine exactly how to brew it, whether it’s brewing an espresso, a double espresso or American coffee. You can choose from many different capsules that vary in types of coffee mentioned as well as strength and even origin. The capsules can be tossed in with your recycling in some states or put in a Nespresso-supplied bag and dropped off at UPS or a Nespresso boutique to be sent back to Nespresso for recycling.
The espressos and coffees are full-bodied with a thick and creamy crema. Each one is consistent and hot, and the machine is easy to operate. The included milk frother makes this our favorite pod coffee maker option — hello, cappuccinos and lattes! — but this same machine can be purchased for less money as a stand-alone option.
- Cup capacity: 1 cups
- Type of carafe: Brews into mug of your choice
- Dimensions: 10.8″ x 14.75″ x 15.5″
7 Best Espresso
Breville Barista Express Impress
Ever since this Breville espresso machine earned a spot, it’s been a favorite of our experts. It was a top performer in our tests and easy to use, but it stood out for its unique features. It has what Breville calls the “intelligent dosing system” that dispenses coffee grounds into the portafilter and lets you know if you need to add or remove coffee grounds. The built-in tamping lever also ensures the proper amount of pressure is applied for the perfect shot of espresso every time.
In our Lab tests, this machine produced tasty, rich shots of espresso with a thick layer of crema. The milk frothing wand is powerful enough to create a hefty amount of froth, something that other built-in frothing wands can struggle with. One of our pros has had this machine for a few years and said it’s still one of their favorites and produces great shots of espresso.
One thing to note, our expert noticed that drier coffee bean types can get staticky and end up sticking to the counter. However, cleaning out the grinder fully and spritzing a few drops of water on the beans in the hopper before grinding solves this issue.
- Cup capacity: One or two shots of espresso
- Type of carafe: Brews into mug of your choice
- Dimensions: 13.25″ x 12.5″ x 15.75″
8 Best Cold Brew
OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Making cold brew doesn’t get easier than with this Oxo Cold Brew coffee maker. Our taste testers said it made excellent cold brew with a smooth and balanced flavor. Our experts found this extremely easy to use, by adding coarsely ground coffee and water through the “rainmaker” lid which distributes water evenly over the grounds and let sit. After 12 to 24 hours, the coffee is ready to dispense into the glass carafe by pushing a lever.
It’s very easy to customize the flavor to your liking by letting it steep for shorter or longer amounts of time. We also found it a breeze to clean, and when you’re done using it, the parts nest together for compact storage.
- Cup capacity: 40 oz
- Type of carafe: Glass
- Dimensions: 9.5″ x 9.5″ x 14.7″
9 Best Pour Over
Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffee Maker
It’s easy to recognize a Chemex Pour Over coffee maker with its distinctive hourglass shape. We love this one because unlike most pour-over coffee makers that only make a single serving, this can brew up to six cups of coffee. Not only does it look sleek, but it makes a tasty, smooth cup of coffee. Our experts like that this carafe is lightweight, yet still feels durable. When we road-tested this at home, we found filters fit well and it’s easy to use.
We love that the carafe is dishwasher safe since its shape makes it tricky to wash by hand. Just be sure to take off the collar and ensure the glass carafe doesn’t knock against anything in the dishwasher otherwise it could break. It doesn’t stay as hot compared to other coffee makers that have a thermal carafe or keep-warm features, but that’s expected, especially since it doesn’t have a lid, so you’ll want to make sure to drink it right away.
- Cup capacity: 6 cups
- Type of carafe: Glass
- Dimensions: 8.5″ x 5.1″
10 Best French Press
ESPRO P7 French Press
Espro has consistently been a top pick when it comes to French presses. In fact, it earned a spot in our Kitchen Gear, Coffee and Tea Awards. What makes this coffee maker stand out among others are the double fine-mesh strainers which remove as much sediment as possible.Our pros noticed it had a less gritty taste than other French presses we tested and made a delicious cup of French press coffee.
It’s easy to assemble and within minutes you’re on your way to full-flavored French press coffee. One of our taste testers said, “The product makes consistent and delicious coffee within a few minutes.” The double-walled stainless steel coffee maker helps keep your coffee hot and the oversize handle makes it easy to pour. It can hold up to 32 ounces.
- Cup capacity: 32 oz
- Type of carafe: Thermal
- Dimensions: 4.5″ x 9.5″
