What’s a good coffee maker? Whether you prefer drip, espresso, or a portable option, our expert reviews of the top coffee makers in 2025 have got you covered. Read on to find the best coffee maker for your needs and budget.
Our Top Picks for the Best Coffee Makers in 2025
Here are our top picks for the best coffee makers in 2023:
Best Pod Coffee Maker: Nespresso Vertuo Next, praised for its performance and quality.
Best Overall Drip Coffee Maker: Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select.
Best Pour-Over Coffee Maker: Kalita Wave, due to its exceptional brewing capabilities.
Best Budget Drip Coffee Maker: Braun Brew Sense Drip Coffeemaker, 12 Cups.
Best Compact Espresso Machine: Nespresso Essenza Mini.
Best French Press: Bodum Chambord.
Best Espresso Machine for Beginners: Breville Barista Express, user-friendly and ideal for newcomers.
Best Customizable Drip Coffee Maker: Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker, offering extensive customization options.
Best Portable Coffee Maker: AeroPress Original, perfect for brewing a single cup of coffee.
Best High-End Espresso Machine: De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro.
Nespresso Vertuo Next - Best Pod Coffee Maker
Price: $159
Specifications:
Simple one-button system
Compact design
Eco-friendly construction using recycled plastics
Pros:
Quick brewing time
Compact and stylish design
Automatically adjusts brewing settings based on capsule barcode
Cons:
Pods can be expensive over time
Limited to Nespresso capsules
As a coffee enthusiast, I appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of the Nespresso Vertuo Next. Its compact design fits any kitchen space perfectly, while the one-button system simplifies brewing. The machine reads the barcode on each capsule, automatically adjusting the brewing settings to ensure a perfect cup every time. Additionally, its eco-friendly construction using recycled plastics is a commendable feature.
The cost of the pods can add up over time, which might be a drawback for some. Despite this, the Nespresso Vertuo Next delivers a consistent and delicious coffee experience, making it the best pod coffee maker of 2024.
Rating:
Price: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Performance: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select - Best Overall Drip Coffee Maker
Price: $329 Specifications:
Fixed water tank
High-quality construction
Pros:
Consistently brews delicious coffee
High-quality build
Recognized for performance and quality
Cons:
Expensive
Lacks modern features like customization
Fixed water tank can be inconvenient
The Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select is considered the best coffee maker overall drip coffee maker for good reason. Its unmatched ability to consistently brew fantastic coffee stems from meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality construction. Although pricier, the investment is worthwhile for those who value consistency and quality in their coffee.
However, it does have its drawbacks. The fixed water tank can be inconvenient, and the machine lacks modern features like customization and versatility. Despite these minor issues, the Moccamaster remains a top choice for those who prioritize coffee quality.
Rating:
Price: 3/5
Design: 4/5
Performance: 5/5
Overall: 4/5
Kalita Wave - Best Pour-Over Coffee Maker
Price: $40 (ceramic model) Specifications:
Available in ceramic, glass, and stainless steel
Unique drainage system
Pros:
Excellent flow rate
Consistent and durable
Available in multiple materials
Cons:
Glass model is fragile
Stainless steel version can clog
The Kalita Wave is a favorite among pour-over enthusiasts for good reason. The ceramic model, in particular, is highly rated for its balance of consistency and durability. The unique drainage system ensures a smooth and even extraction, resulting in a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.
Regardless of whether you choose the ceramic, glass, or stainless steel version, the Kalita Wave offers excellent control over the brewing process. However, each material has its pros and cons. The glass model, while efficient, is prone to breakage, and the stainless steel version can sometimes clog, leading to inconsistent results.
Despite these minor issues, the Kalita Wave remains the best pour-over coffee maker for those who appreciate manual brewing methods.
Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Performance: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Braun Brew Sense Drip Coffeemaker, 12 Cups - Best Budget Drip Coffee Maker
Price: $99
Specifications:
Brew capacity: 60 ounces
Adjustable keep-warm time and temperature
24-hour programming
Pros:
Affordable
Large capacity carafe The interface is easy to use. It provides a user-friendly experience.
Cons:
Basic design
Limited customization options
The Braun Brew Sense Drip Coffeemaker, 12 Cups, stands out as the best budget-friendly option for 2025. With a brew capacity of 60 ounces, it’s perfect for large servings, and the adjustable keep-warm time and temperature ensure your coffee stays fresh and hot. Its 24-hour programming feature and straightforward user interface make it incredibly easy to use, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
While it may lack some advanced features found in more expensive models, the Braun Brew Sense delivers reliable performance and excellent temperature retention. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for an affordable yet effective drip coffee maker.
Rating:
Price: 5/5
Design: 3/5
Performance: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Nespresso Essenza Mini - Best Compact Espresso Machine
Price: $149
Specifications:
Small footprint
Chic design
Customizable espresso shot sizes
Pros:
Compact and stylish
Quick brewing time
Consistent and balanced espresso
Cons:
Limited to Nespresso capsules
Small water tank
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is the perfect choice for those who love espresso but have limited counter space. Its small footprint and chic design add a stylish touch to any kitchen. Despite its compact size, the Essenza Mini brews a quality shot of espresso in about 30 seconds, and the customizable shot sizes allow you to tailor your coffee to your preferences.
However, like other Nespresso machines, it’s limited to Nespresso capsules, which can be pricey. The small water tank necessitates more frequent refills. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Nespresso Essenza Mini remains the best compact espresso machine for 2025.
Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 5/5
Performance: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Bodum Chambord - Best French Press
Price: $39 (34-ounce model) Specifications:
Available in multiple sizes
Glass carafe
Pros:
Affordable
Rich flavor profile
Easy to use
Cons:
Sediment in coffee
Fragile glass carafe
The Bodum Chambord is a classic choice for French press enthusiasts for good reason. Available in multiple sizes, it caters to both single users and larger groups. The simple brewing method produces a rich and full-bodied flavor, making it a favorite among coffee drinkers. Plus, its affordability makes it accessible to everyone.
However, the glass carafe is fragile and requires careful handling, and the brewing extraction process can leave some sediment in the coffee. Despite these minor issues, the Bodum Chambord remains the best French press coffee for those who appreciate a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.
Rating:
Price: 5/5
Design: 4/5
Performance: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Breville Barista Express - Best Espresso Machine for Beginners
Price: $699
Specifications:
Integrated grinder
25 grind settings
One-handed operation
Pros:
Beginner-friendly
Mess-free assisted tamping
Adjustable settings
Cons:
Expensive
Requires regular cleaning
The Breville Barista Express offers a seamless and mess-free experience, making it the best espresso machine for beginners. Its integrated grinder and 25 grind settings allow for precise control over your coffee grounds. The one-handed operation makes it incredibly easy to use, even for those new to espresso making.
However, it comes with a hefty price tag, and regular cleaning is necessary to maintain performance. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Breville Barista Express remains a top choice for beginners looking to delve into the world of espresso.
Rating:
Price: 3/5
Design: 4/5
Performance: 5/5
Overall: 4/5
Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker - Best Customizable Drip Coffee Maker
Price: $349
Specifications:
45-ounce water tank
Smartphone app control
Multiple finishes
Pros:
Extensive customization options
Stylish design
Convenient app control
Cons:
Expensive
Requires smartphone for full functionality
The Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is a dream come true for those who love tweaking their brew. Extensive customization options and a dedicated smartphone app allow you to control every aspect of your coffee brewed-making process. The 45-ounce water tank and multiple finishes, including stainless steel, matte black, and matte white, make it a stylish addition to any kitchen for the coffee drinker.
However, the premium price tag might deter some, and full functionality requires a smartphone. Despite these minor issues, the Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is the best choice for those who want complete control over their coffee.
Rating:
Price: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Overall: 4/5
AeroPress Original Single Cup Coffee Maker - Best Portable Coffee Maker
Price: $35
Specifications:
Lightweight and portable
Durable plastic construction
Pros:
Highly portable
Manual control over brewing
Easy to clean
Cons:
Requires manual effort
Limited to single servings
The AeroPress Original Single Cup Coffee Maker is ideal for portability and perfect for those who love to travel. Its lightweight and durable plastic construction make it easy to carry around, and the manual brewing process allows for complete control over your coffee. The coffee produced by the AeroPress is known for its superior flavor and complexity, rivaling that of much larger machines.
However, it requires some manual effort and is limited to single servings. Despite these minor drawbacks, the AeroPress is a fantastic choice for those who want great coffee or iced coffee on the go.
Rating:
Price: 5/5
Design: 4/5
Performance: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro - Best High-End Espresso Machine
Price: $1,299
Specifications:
Dual heating system
Eight grind size settings
Dimensions: 14.48 inches in length, 15 inches in width, and 17.5 inches in height
Weight: 35.2 pounds
These measurements define the size of the object.
Pros:
Advanced features
Precise control over grind size
Can brew both hot and cold espresso
Cons:
Very expensive
Bulky and heavy
The De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro epitomizes luxury for espresso aficionados. With advanced features like a dual heating system and eight grind size settings, it offers precise control over your coffee grind texture. This machine handles both hot and cold espresso with ease. Its robust build and elegant design make it a standout in any kitchen.
However, its hefty price tag and bulky design may not suit smaller kitchens. Despite these drawbacks, the De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro remains the best high-end espresso machine for those who are serious about their coffee.
Rating:
Price: 2/5
Design: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Overall: 4/5
How to Choose the Right Coffee Maker for You
Choosing the right coffee maker can be daunting due to the numerous options available. The key is to consider your specific needs and preferences. Determine your budget first. Higher investments usually result in better quality coffee; for example, a $100 coffee maker often outperforms a $40 model in flavor and brewing consistency.
Consider the space you have available. Measure your countertop and check cabinet clearance to ensure a proper fit. For limited space, compact models like the Nespresso Essenza Mini are ideal.
Think about your coffee needs. For multiple people, larger machines like the Braun Brew Sense Drip Coffeemaker are necessary. Single-serving options like the AeroPress are perfect for personal use. Also, remember the importance of fresh coffee beans and a good coffee grinder to enhance flavor.
Evaluate how much control you want over the brewing process. Higher-priced models often offer better customization, such as precise temperature control and grind size adjustments. Taking these factors into account will help you find a coffee maker that fits your lifestyle.
Key Features to Look For in a Coffee Maker
Several key features should be considered when shopping for a coffee maker. A brew strength selector is essential for those who like to customize their coffee. For instance, the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Brewer offers different brew strengths to cater to personal taste preferences.
Another crucial feature is temperature control. Optimal brewing temperatures ensure the best coffee flavor extraction. Some models, like the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Brewer, have a maximum brew temperature of around 197°F, ideal for coffee extraction.
The type of carafe also plays a significant role. Thermal carafes maintain coffee temperature for extended periods without a heating plate, preserving the coffee’s flavor. In contrast, glass carafes with heating plates can negatively impact flavor over time due to constant heat exposure.
Also, consider the type of coffee filters used. Reusable metal or mesh filters produce less waste and reduce long-term costs. Single-use paper filters are also popular for their convenience and ease of cleaning. Paying attention to these features will help you find a coffee maker that meets your needs and enhances your coffee experience.
Understanding Different Types of Coffee Makers
Understanding different types of coffee makers will help you choose the right one for your needs. Drip coffee makers like the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select are known for their consistency and quality in brewing larger volumes of coffee brews. These machines are ideal for families or offices.
Espresso machines like the Nespresso Vertuo Next and De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro offer a more concentrated coffee and espresso experience. High-end models often feature dual-boiler systems for simultaneous brewing and steaming, offering better coffee extraction.
Single-serve machines like the Nespresso Essenza Mini are designed for quick, no-fuss coffee making with minimal counter space requirements. These single serve coffee makers are perfect for individuals who need a fast and convenient coffee solution.
Manual brewing methods like the Chemex and Bodum Chambord French press offer full control over the brewing process. These methods appeal to enthusiasts who prefer customization and are willing to invest more time in their coffee brewing. Understanding these different types will help you select the coffee maker that best fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Summary
Choosing the right coffee maker can significantly enhance your daily coffee experience. From the convenience of pod coffee makers like the Nespresso Vertuo Next to the manual control of the Kalita Wave pour-over, each type of coffee maker offers unique benefits. Our top picks for 2024 include a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences.
Ultimately, the best coffee maker for you depends on your personal taste, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the rich flavor of a French press or the convenience of a single-serve machine, there’s a perfect coffee maker out there for you. Happy brewing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best coffee maker for beginners?** **?
The Breville Barista Express is a fantastic choice for beginners because it combines an integrated grinder and adjustable settings, making it super user-friendly. You’ll love how easy it is to brew delicious espresso at home!
Are pod coffee makers worth it?
Pod coffee makers are definitely worth it for their convenience and speedy brewing, but keep an eye on those pod costs if you’re watching your budget.
How important is temperature control in a coffee maker?
Temperature control is essential in a coffee maker because it directly affects the flavor extraction. A good model maintains a brewing temperature around 197°F for optimal taste.
What are the advantages of a French press?
The French press is great because it brews coffee with a rich flavor profile and is affordable, making it suitable for various needs. Plus, its straightforward brewing method means you can enjoy your coffee without much hassle.
How do I choose the right coffee maker for my needs?
Choosing the right coffee maker boils down to knowing your budget, space, and how much control you want over brewing. Don’t forget, a good grinder and fresh beans can take your coffee to the next level!
What Are the Best Brewing Methods for Delicious Coffee?
There are many brewing methods to explore, depending on your taste preferences:
Pour over coffee offers exceptional control over flavor and produces some of the best tasting coffee for enthusiasts.
Cold brew makers are ideal for those who prefer smooth, low-acidity coffee, while an automatic drip coffee maker is perfect for convenience.
Espresso makers deliver concentrated shots for coffee lovers who enjoy bold flavors or want to experiment with brewing espresso at home.
No matter the method, using freshly ground coffee beans ensures the highest quality taste.
Can a Cold Brew Coffee Maker Produce Great Tasting Coffee?
Absolutely! A cold brew coffee maker is designed to steep coffee slowly, resulting in a smooth, rich flavor. It’s perfect for making delicious cold brew or even cold brew concentrate. For the best results, use coarsely ground coffee and a good coffee to water ratio. If you want a versatile machine, some electric coffee makers now include settings for cold brew as well.
What Features Should I Look for in Coffee Machines?
When choosing coffee machines, consider the following:
A brew basket that evenly distributes water for consistent flavor.
Compatibility with pre-ground coffee or freshly ground coffee for flexibility.
Extra features like a milk frother for making lattes or steaming milk for cappuccinos.
The ability to brew both hot coffee and cold brew for year-round versatility.
These features ensure you’ll always enjoy great tasting coffee regardless of the season or brew style.
How Do I Make Coffee That Stays Warm Longer?
To keep your coffee warm, choose a coffee maker with a thermal carafe. Models from the Specialty Coffee Association are excellent at maintaining the right temperature for flavor. A good drip machine also helps preserve heat without overheating the coffee. For optimal taste, start with high-quality coffee beans and adjust the coffee to water ratio for balanced flavor.
Are Single Serve Coffee Makers Good for Specialty Coffee?
Yes, especially models like Nespresso machines, which excel at brewing specialty drinks. Some single-serve machines even have built-in milk frothers, allowing you to create café-quality drinks. While they are ideal for convenience, using freshly ground beans or pods with high-quality ingredients ensures you still enjoy a delicious coffee experience.
Can Pour Over Be Used for Cold Brew or Hot Coffee?
Yes, pour over is versatile! While primarily used for hot coffee, you can adapt the method for cold brew by steeping ground coffee in cold water and filtering it manually. Pour over is favored in the specialty coffee industry for its ability to highlight subtle flavors in freshly roasted beans. It’s an excellent option for coffee lovers who want complete control over their brewing method.
What’s the Key to Brewing Delicious Coffee at Home?
The key is using freshly ground coffee, high-quality beans, and the right machine for your needs. Whether you choose cold brew makers, espresso makers, or electric coffee makers, focus on achieving the correct coffee to water ratio. For a balanced cup, experiment with different grinds and techniques until you find the perfect recipe.
