The best coffee makers of 2024, a buyers guide

October 16, 2024 coffeeadmin

Ah, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through your home—is there anything quite like it? As more and more coffee enthusiasts embrace the art of home brewing, finding the perfect coffee maker has become a quest of its own. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a certified coffee connoisseur, this guide will help you navigate the world of coffee makers and find your perfect match in 2024.

Our top Coffee Maker Machine picks for 2024

Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select – See on Amazon
Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker – See on Amazon
Breville Precision Brewer Thermal with Grinder – See on Amazon
Breville Barista Express – See on Amazon
Gaggia Classic Pro – See on Amazon
Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine – See on Amazon
Keurig K-Elite – See on Amazon
Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville – See on Amazon
Chemex Classic Series – See on Amazon
Bodum Chambord – See on Amazon
De’Longhi La Specialista Prestigio – See on Amazon

Types of Coffee Makers

Before we go into more detail on each of the top picks, let’s look at the main types of coffee makers available, explaining how each one works and what sets them apart from the others.

Drip Coffee Makers

Drip coffee makers are the quintessential home brewing device, found in kitchens worldwide. Here’s how they work:

You pour cold water into a reservoir.
The machine heats the water to near-boiling.
Hot water drips over ground coffee in a filter basket.
Brewed coffee drips into a carafe or pot below.

Pros:

Easy to use and widely available
Can make large quantities at once
Many models are programmable for wake-up coffee

Cons:

Less control over brewing variables
May not extract coffee as evenly as some other methods

Best for: Households that consume multiple cups throughout the day and prefer a straightforward brewing process.

Pod Machines

Pod or capsule machines offer the ultimate in convenience. They use pre-packaged pods of ground coffee to brew individual cups. Here’s how they function:

You insert a coffee pod into the machine.
The machine punctures the pod and forces hot water through it.
Brewed coffee dispenses directly into your cup.

Pros:

Extremely quick and convenient
Consistent results every time
Wide variety of flavors available

Cons:

More expensive per cup than other methods
Limited control over brew strength
Environmental concerns with pod disposal

Best for: Those who prioritize speed and convenience, or offices and households with varied taste preferences.

Espresso Machines

Espresso machines are designed to produce the concentrated, bold coffee that forms the base of many specialty drinks. They work by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure:

Finely ground coffee is packed into a portafilter.
The machine heats water to the right temperature.
Hot water is forced through the coffee at high pressure (9 bars or more).
A small amount of concentrated coffee (the espresso shot) is produced.

Pros:

Produces rich, complex flavors with crema
Basis for a wide range of coffee drinks (cappuccinos, lattes, etc.)
Allows for a high degree of user control

Cons:

Often require more skill and practice
Can be more expensive
Typically make smaller quantities at a time

Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who enjoy strong flavors and want to recreate cafe-style drinks at home.

Cold Brew Makers

Cold brew makers produce coffee by steeping grounds in cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. The process is simple:

Coarse ground coffee is mixed with cold water.
The mixture steeps for 12-24 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
The brew is filtered to remove grounds, leaving smooth cold brew concentrate.

Pros:

Produces less acidic, smoother coffee
Concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks
Can be enjoyed hot or cold

Cons:

Requires advance planning due to long brewing time
May use more coffee grounds than other methods

Best for: Those who enjoy iced coffee, people with sensitive stomachs, or anyone who appreciates a smooth, less bitter brew.

What to Consider When Buying a Coffee Maker Machine.

Choosing the right coffee maker involves more than just picking the shiniest, slickest looking machine on the shelf. There are also some other key factors to keep in mind:

Capacity: How many coffee drinkers are in your household? Choose a maker that can keep up with your caffeine needs.
Brewing Time: For those hectic mornings, a quick brew time can be a lifesaver.
Construction/Materials: Look for durable materials that not only last but also complement your kitchen aesthetics.
Features: From programmability to strength settings, built-in grinders to milk frothers, consider which features will enhance your brewing experience.
Budget: Great coffee doesn’t have to break the bank. We’ll help you find the best value for your money.
Ease of Cleaning: Because life’s too short to spend it scrubbing coffee makers.
Serving Size: Do you need single-cup options or full pots?
Grounds or Pods Compatibility: Consider whether you prefer the flexibility of ground coffee or the convenience of pods.

The Cream of the Crop: Best Coffee Makers of 2024

Now that we know some of the important factors to look at when choosing your coffee maker, lets take a more detailed look at the top products available for each of the different types of coffee makers.

We’ll start with the best drip coffee makers.

Best Overall Drip Coffee Maker:

Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select

Price Range: $325-$400
See it on Amazon

The Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select is a masterpiece of coffee engineering, handmade in the Netherlands. This SCA-certified brewer is renowned for its ability to maintain the ideal brewing temperature between 196°F and 205°F throughout the entire brewing process.

Key Features:

40 oz (10-cup) capacity
Unique copper boiling element for rapid heating
Auto-drip stop when carafe is removed
Choice between full or half carafe brewing
Durable metal housing with a 5-year warranty

Performance: The KBGV Select shines in its ability to extract coffee flavors evenly. Its shower head design ensures all grounds are saturated equally, while the copper boiling element heats water to the perfect temperature in under a minute. The result is a consistently excellent cup of coffee with balanced flavors and no bitterness.

User Experience: While it lacks programmability, the Moccamaster is straightforward to use. The ability to choose between brewing a full or half carafe is particularly useful for households with varying coffee needs. Cleaning is simple, with most parts being easily removable and dishwasher safe.

Pros:

Brews at the optimal temperature for perfect extraction
Fast brewing time of about 6 minutes for a full pot
Excellent build quality for long-term durability
Produces consistently great-tasting coffee

Cons:

Higher price point
No programmability for auto-start
Minimal features compared to some high-tech brewers

Best For: Coffee enthusiasts who prioritize flavor and are willing to invest in a high-quality, long-lasting machine.

Best Budget Drip Coffee Maker:

Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker

Price Range: $30-$45
See on Amazon

The Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker proves that good coffee doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. This no-frills machine focuses on the essentials of coffee brewing.

Key Features:

12-cup glass carafe
Removable filter basket for easy cleaning
Pause ‘n Serve feature for mid-brew pouring
Simple on/off switch with indicator light
Dual water window for accurate filling

Performance: While it may not have the precise temperature control of more expensive models, the Mr. Coffee consistently produces a satisfying cup. It heats water quickly and distributes it evenly over the grounds, resulting in a well-extracted brew.

User Experience: This machine is incredibly user-friendly. The straightforward design means anyone can use it without needing to consult a manual. The Pause ‘n Serve feature is particularly handy for those who can’t wait for the full pot to brew.

Pros:

Very affordable
Easy to use and clean
Reliable performance
Compact design fits in most kitchens

Cons:

Basic features only
No programmability
Not as durable as higher-end models
Less precise temperature control

Best For: Budget-conscious coffee drinkers or those who need a simple, reliable coffee maker for occasional use.

Best Drip Coffee Maker with Grinder:

Breville Precision Brewer Thermal with Grinder

Price Range: $300-$400
See on Amazon

The Breville Precision Brewer Thermal with Grinder is a coffee enthusiast’s dream, combining a high-quality burr grinder with a versatile, customizable brewer.

Key Features:

Built-in conical burr grinder with 6 grind settings
12-cup thermal carafe
6 unique brewing modes including Gold (SCA-certified), Fast, Strong, Iced, Cold Brew, and My Brew (custom)
PID temperature control
Auto ‘steep and release’ technology
Adjustable bloom time

Performance: This machine excels in its ability to customize every aspect of the brewing process. The built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds for every brew, while the PID temperature control and adjustable bloom time allow for precise extraction. The result is café-quality coffee tailored to your preferences.

User Experience: While the abundance of features might seem overwhelming at first, the intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through brewing options. The thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without scorching, and the programmability allows you to wake up to freshly ground and brewed coffee.

Pros:

Integrated high-quality burr grinder
Extremely customizable brewing process
Precise temperature and flow rate control
Dual filter baskets for both flat bottom and cone filters

Cons:

Expensive compared to basic models
Large footprint may not suit all kitchens
Learning curve to fully utilize all features
Grinder can be noisy

Best For: Coffee aficionados who want maximum control over their brew and appreciate the convenience of an all-in-one machine.

Best for Specialty Drinks:

Breville Barista Express

Price Range: $690-$750
See on Amazon

The Breville Barista Express is a semi-automatic espresso machine that brings the café experience into your home. It’s designed for those who want to craft barista-quality espresso drinks without the learning curve of a fully manual machine.

Key Features:

Built-in conical burr grinder with 16 grind settings
15 bar Italian pump and 1600W thermocoil heating system
PID temperature control for optimal espresso extraction
67 fl.oz (2L) water tank capacity
Integrated tamper and dedicated hot water outlet
Powerful steam wand for milk texturing

Performance: The Barista Express shines in its ability to produce rich, full-bodied espresso with a beautiful crema. The built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds for every shot, while the PID temperature control maintains consistent water temperature throughout extraction. The steam wand is capable of creating microfoam suitable for latte art.

User Experience: While there is a learning curve, the Barista Express is more user-friendly than many prosumer espresso machines. The integrated grinder and tamper streamline the process, and the pressure gauge helps users dial in the perfect shot. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward with included cleaning tools and a hidden storage tray.

Pros:

All-in-one design with built-in grinder saves counter space
Produces excellent espresso with rich crema
Allows for a high degree of customization
High-quality build with attractive stainless steel design

Cons:

Steep learning curve for beginners
Single boiler means waiting between brewing and steaming
More expensive than basic espresso machines
Grinder may need occasional calibration

Best For: Coffee enthusiasts who want to dive into the world of espresso and are willing to invest time in learning the craft.

Best Espresso Machine:

Gaggia Classic Pro

Price Range: $450-$550
See on Amazon

The Gaggia Classic Pro is a semi-automatic espresso machine that offers commercial-quality components in a home-friendly package. It’s an updated version of the iconic Gaggia Classic, known for its durability and ability to produce excellent espresso.

Key Features:

Commercial 58mm chrome-plated brass portafilter
Powerful 15-bar pump
3-way solenoid valve for dry puck removal
Robust stainless steel housing
72 oz removable water reservoir
Commercial steam wand for manual milk frothing
Rocker switch controls for simple operation

Performance: The Gaggia Classic Pro excels in producing rich, full-bodied espresso with excellent crema. Its commercial-grade portafilter and 15-bar pump ensure optimal extraction, while the 3-way solenoid valve prevents dripping and creates a dry coffee puck for easy disposal. The steam wand, while requiring some practice, is capable of creating microfoam suitable for latte art.

User Experience: This machine is designed for those who enjoy a hands-on approach to espresso making. The simple rocker switches provide direct control over the brewing process. While there’s a learning curve, especially for perfecting milk frothing, many users find the process rewarding. The machine heats up quickly, allowing for fast shot pulling.

Pros:

Commercial-quality components for superior espresso
Durable build quality with a sleek, professional look
Capable of producing cafe-quality espresso and milk-based drinks
Easy to maintain with readily available replacement parts

Cons:

Manual operation requires some skill and practice
Single boiler means waiting between brewing and steaming
No built-in grinder, requiring a separate purchase
Limited cup clearance under the portafilter

Best For: Espresso enthusiasts who want a durable, high-quality machine and are willing to perfect their barista skills.

Best Super-Automatic Coffee Maker:

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Price Range: $700-$850
See on Amazon

The Philips 3200 Series is a fully automatic espresso machine that offers the luxury of one-touch specialty coffee drinks without the need for barista skills.

Key Features:

5 one-touch coffee varieties (Espresso, Coffee, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, Americano)
Built-in ceramic grinder with 12 adjustment settings
LatteGo milk system for one-touch milk frothing
1.8L water tank and 275g bean container
AquaClean filter for up to 5000 cups without descaling
Intuitive touch display
My Coffee Choice menu for customizing strength and volume

Performance: This machine delivers consistent results across its range of drinks. The ceramic grinder preserves the beans’ flavor and aroma, while the LatteGo system creates smooth, silky milk froth. The 15-bar pump ensures proper extraction for flavorful espresso, and the AquaClean filter maintains water quality for better-tasting coffee.

User Experience: The Philips 3200 Series is designed for ultimate convenience. The intuitive touch display makes selecting and customizing drinks effortless. The LatteGo milk system is easy to attach, use, and clean – it can even be stored in the fridge. Regular maintenance is simplified with removable brew group and dishwasher-safe parts.

Pros:

One-touch brewing for various coffee drinks
Easy to clean and maintain
Customizable drink options
Quiet grinder operation
Long intervals between descaling with AquaClean filter

Cons:

Expensive initial investment
Limited control over brewing parameters compared to manual machines
Plastic components may not feel as premium as full metal machines
Large footprint may not suit all kitchens

Best For: Coffee lovers who want the convenience of cafe-style drinks at home without the need to develop barista skills.

Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker:

Keurig K-Elite

Price Range: $115-$190
See on Amazon

The Keurig K-Elite combines the convenience of K-Cup pod brewing with a range of features designed to enhance your single-serve coffee experience.

Key Features:

Brews multiple cup sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 oz
Strong brew option for a more intense cup
Iced setting to brew hot over ice for iced coffee
Hot water on demand function
Large 75 oz water reservoir
Quiet brew technology
Programmable auto-on and auto-off
High altitude setting
Removable drip tray to accommodate travel mugs

Performance: The K-Elite offers quick brewing, typically under a minute, while maintaining good flavor extraction. The strong brew option increases the intensity of the flavor, addressing a common criticism of pod machines. The iced coffee setting is a standout feature, allowing for a proper iced coffee without dilution.

User Experience: This machine is designed for ultimate ease of use. The large water reservoir means less frequent refilling, and the intuitive controls make selecting your preferred brew simple. The programmable auto-on feature is perfect for having your machine ready when you wake up. Cleaning is straightforward, with many parts being dishwasher safe.

Pros:

Fast and convenient brewing
Versatile with multiple cup sizes and brew options
Large water reservoir for less frequent refilling
Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.2″ tall
Offers both hot and iced coffee options

Cons:

More expensive per cup than other brewing methods
Environmental concerns with K-Cup pod disposal
Less control over brew strength and flavor compared to traditional methods
Can’t brew a full carafe for multiple servings

Best For: Busy individuals or households with varied coffee preferences who prioritize speed and convenience.

Best Nespresso Machine:

Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville

Price Range: $129-$190
See on Amazon

The Nespresso VertuoPlus by Breville brings Nespresso’s innovative Vertuo brewing system to your kitchen, offering both espresso and full-cup coffee options with the convenience of capsules.

Key Features:

Centrifusion extraction technology (spins capsule up to 7000 rpm)
Automatic blend recognition via barcode scanning
One-touch brewing
Adjustable water tank position (side or back) for flexible placement
40 oz water tank capacity
Automatic capsule ejection and storage
Fast heat-up time of 20-25 seconds
Energy-saving: auto shut-off after 9 minutes of inactivity

Performance: The VertuoPlus uses Nespresso’s Centrifusion technology, which spins the capsule at high speeds to blend ground coffee with water. This results in a rich, crema-topped coffee regardless of the cup size. The automatic blend recognition ensures each capsule is brewed optimally, producing consistent results every time.

User Experience: This machine epitomizes user-friendliness. The one-touch operation and automatic capsule recognition mean you simply insert a capsule and press a button. The adjustable water tank allows for flexible countertop placement. The machine also automatically ejects used capsules into a container, reducing mess and simplifying cleanup.

Pros:

Brews both espresso and full-cup coffee
Produces rich crema on all coffee sizes
Very quick and convenient to use
Sleek, compact design with adjustable water tank
Consistent results with every brew

Cons:

Limited to Nespresso Vertuo capsules
More expensive per cup than traditional brewing methods
Less customization of brew strength or temperature
Environmental concerns with capsule disposal, though Nespresso does offer a recycling program

Best For: Coffee drinkers who appreciate the convenience of capsules but want the option of both espresso and full-cup coffee with minimal effort.

Best Pour-Over Coffee Maker:

Chemex Classic Series

Price Range: $40-$50
See on Amazon

The Chemex Classic Series is an iconic pour-over brewer that combines elegant design with excellent coffee extraction. Its hourglass shape and use of proprietary filters result in a clean, flavorful brew.

Key Features:

Non-porous Borosilicate glass construction
Available in 3, 6, 8, and 10 cup sizes
Uses proprietary Chemex-bonded filters
Wooden collar with leather tie for comfortable handling
Can be used for both hot and iced coffee brewing
Doubles as an elegant serving vessel

Performance: The Chemex produces a exceptionally clean, bright, and flavorful coffee. Its thick filters remove even the finest sediment and many of the oils, resulting in a cup that highlights the coffee’s more delicate flavors. The narrow spout controls pouring speed, allowing for precise serving.

User Experience: Using the Chemex requires some skill and attention, making it ideal for those who enjoy the ritual of manual brewing. The process of carefully pouring hot water over the grounds can be meditative. Cleaning is simple – just remove the wooden collar and the glass is dishwasher safe.

Pros:

Produces exceptionally clean, flavorful coffee
Beautiful design that doubles as a serving carafe
Simple to use once technique is mastered
No electricity required
Durable and long-lasting with proper care

Cons:

Requires more time and attention than automatic brewers
Special Chemex filters needed for optimal results
Glass can be fragile if not handled carefully
Learning curve to perfect the pour-over technique

Best For: Coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the ritual of manual brewing and prefer a clean, bright cup of coffee.

Best French Press:

Bodum Chambord

Price Range: $30-$40
See on Amazon

The Bodum Chambord is a classic French press that combines timeless design with reliable performance. It’s been a staple in coffee lovers’ kitchens for decades, known for producing rich, full-bodied coffee.

Key Features:

Available in multiple sizes (3, 4, 8, 12 cup)
Durable borosilicate glass carafe
Stainless steel frame and heat-resistant handle
3-part stainless steel plunger with mesh filter
Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Can be used for both coffee and tea brewing

Performance: The Bodum Chambord excels at extracting the full range of coffee flavors and oils, resulting in a rich, robust cup. The fine mesh filter allows the coffee’s natural oils to pass through, contributing to a fuller body and more complex flavor profile compared to paper filter methods.

User Experience: Using the Chambord is straightforward – add coarse ground coffee, pour hot water, wait 4 minutes, then slowly press the plunger. The process allows for easy customization of brew strength by adjusting the amount of coffee or steeping time. Cleaning is simple, with all parts being dishwasher safe.

Pros:

Produces full-bodied, rich coffee
Simple to use and clean
Allows for easy customization of brew strength
No paper filters needed, reducing waste
Durable construction with replaceable parts available

Cons:

Requires coarse ground coffee for optimal results
Some sediment in the cup is normal
Glass carafe can be fragile
Doesn’t keep coffee hot for extended periods

Best For: Coffee drinkers who enjoy a full-bodied, robust cup and appreciate a hands-on brewing process.

Best Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo:

De’Longhi La Specialista Prestigio

Price Range: $650-$850
See on Amazon

The De’Longhi La Specialista Prestigio is a high-end machine that combines the functionalities of an espresso maker and a drip coffee brewer, offering versatility for various coffee preferences.

Key Features:

Built-in conical burr grinder with 6 settings
Dual heating system for simultaneous brewing and steaming
Smart tamping station for consistent results
Active temperature control with 3 preset brewing temperatures
Advanced latte system with texturing technology
Hot water spout for Americanos or tea
1.8L water tank capacity
Two separate boilers for coffee and steam

Performance: The La Specialista Prestigio delivers excellent results for both espresso and coffee. Its smart tamping station ensures consistent puck formation, while the active temperature control allows for optimal extraction. The advanced latte system produces silky microfoam, ideal for latte art.

User Experience: While offering professional-level features, the machine is designed to be user-friendly. The built-in grinder and tamping station streamline the espresso-making process. The dual boiler system eliminates wait time between brewing and steaming. However, mastering all features may require some practice and experimentation.

Pros:

Versatile – can make espresso, coffee, and milk-based drinks
Built-in grinder and tamping station for convenience
Dual boiler system for efficient operation
High level of control over brewing variables
Produces both excellent espresso and good drip coffee

Cons:

Expensive initial investment
Large footprint may not suit all kitchens
Steep learning curve to fully utilize all features
Regular cleaning and maintenance required

Best For: Coffee enthusiasts who want the flexibility to make various types of coffee drinks and are willing to invest in a high-end, feature-rich machine.

FAQs

Q: What is SCA certification, and why is it important? A: SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) certification ensures that a coffee maker meets strict standards for water temperature, brewing time, and extraction. It’s a mark of quality for serious coffee enthusiasts.

Q: What type of coffee filter is best? A: It depends on personal preference. Paper filters produce a cleaner cup but remove some oils, while metal filters allow more oils and sediment to pass through, resulting in a fuller-bodied coffee.

Q: How often should I clean my coffee maker? A: You should rinse removable parts after each use and do a deep clean (including descaling) every 3-6 months, depending on use and water hardness.

Q: What’s the difference between espresso and regular coffee? A: Espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure, resulting in a concentrated shot with crema. Regular coffee is brewed by steeping ground coffee in hot water for a longer time.

Q: Can I make regular coffee in an espresso machine? A: While you can make an Americano (espresso with added hot water) that’s similar to drip coffee, most espresso machines aren’t designed to make large quantities of regular coffee.

So To Wrap up….

Choosing the perfect coffee maker is a personal journey that depends on your taste preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re a fan of classic drip coffee, crave the ritual of pour-over, or desire the versatility of an all-in-one espresso machine, there’s a perfect brew waiting for you in 2024.

Remember, the best coffee maker is the one that fits seamlessly into your daily routine and consistently delivers the flavor you love. So go ahead, pick your perfect match, and elevate your home brewing game. Your taste buds will thank you!