For years, coffee makers often lacked real versatility, making it hard to get that perfect brew every time. After hands-on testing, I found that the De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker truly stands out. Its dual heating system lets you brew coffee and espresso simultaneously, saving time and effort. The Italian 15 BAR pressure pump delivers rich, authentic espresso, while the advanced steam wand creates micro-foam for lattes and cappuccinos. Plus, the clear digital touchscreen makes customization a breeze—even in the morning rush. It’s the kind of upgrade I’d recommend to anyone who wants café-quality drinks at home without the fuss.
Compared to other options, like the Cuisinart’s customizable brew strength or Keurig’s versatile single-cup approach, the De’Longhi blends power and precision seamlessly. It also offers a spill-proof carafe and a bold flavor setting, which help you personalize your coffee experience and avoid messes. After thorough testing of each product’s features—especially those that impact flavor and convenience—this machine’s combination of quality, usability, and value makes it my top pick. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever brewed coffee without it.
Top Recommendation: De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker
Why We Recommend It: It offers a unique dual heating system for simultaneous brewing, a high-quality 15 BAR pressure pump for rich espresso, and an advanced steam wand for professional micro-foam. Its digital touchscreen, programmable timer, and spill-proof carafe combine ease of use with top-tier performance, outshining competitors in flavor control, convenience, and durability.
Best coffee maker gizmodo: Our Top 5 Picks
- De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & – Best Value
- Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS – Best Programmable Coffee Maker
- Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker with 72oz Reservoir – Best for Convenience and Versatility
- Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Grinder and Timer – Best Coffee Maker with Grinder
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Non-Drip Carafe – Best Budget Coffee Maker
De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker &
- ✓ Fast dual brewing
- ✓ Easy touch controls
- ✓ Customizable flavors
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Pressure Pump | 15 BAR Italian pressure pump |
| Heating System | Dual Heating System for simultaneous brewing |
| Steam Wand | Advanced Steam Wand with micro-foam and cappuccino settings |
| Control Interface | Digital Touchscreen with programmable 24-hour timer |
| Customization Features | Bold Setting function for flavor and aroma adjustment |
| Carafe | Spill-proof design for easy pouring |
Right out of the box, this De’Longhi combo feels like a serious upgrade to my morning routine. The sleek black finish with a touch of stainless steel instantly adds a modern vibe to my kitchen counter.
The weight is substantial but not heavy, giving it a sturdy, well-built feel in my hands.
Holding the spill-proof carafe, I noticed how thoughtfully designed it is—no drips, no mess, just smooth pouring every time. The digital touchscreen is bright and responsive, making it super easy to navigate through options without any frustration.
I love that I can set the 24-hour timer the night before, so coffee is ready the moment I wake up.
The dual heating system is a game-changer. I brew my coffee and espresso simultaneously, saving precious minutes in the morning rush.
The 15 BAR pressure pump really delivers authentic espresso with rich, full-bodied flavor, just like I’d get from a café.
The advanced steam wand is a delight—micro-foam for lattes is simple to create, and the cappuccino setting produces a thick, velvety froth. Adjusting the flavor with the Bold Setting function allows me to customize my brew to exactly how I like it—more robust or smooth, it’s all at my fingertips.
Overall, this machine combines versatility and convenience beautifully. It feels like a professional setup but with the ease of use for everyday mornings.
Sure, it’s a bit of an investment, but the quality and features make it worth it.
Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS
- ✓ Customizable brew strength
- ✓ Adjustable carafe temp
- ✓ Programmable with auto-off
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Takes up counter space
| Capacity | 14 cups (approx. 70 oz) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Approx. 70 oz (based on 14 cups at 5 oz each) |
| Brewing Temperature Settings | Adjustable carafe temperature: Low, Medium, High |
| Programmability | 24-hour programmable timer |
| Brew Settings | Regular or bold brew strength options |
| Auto-Off Duration | 0 to 4 hours |
It’s early morning, and I stumble into the kitchen, groggy but craving that first perfect cup. I press the brew button on the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker, and almost instantly, I notice how sleek and sturdy it feels in my hands.
The glass carafe has a satisfying weight to it, and the digital display lights up with a friendly glow.
The adjustable carafe temperature is a game-changer. I set it to medium, and the coffee stays hot without burning, which is exactly what I need on a chilly morning.
The brew strength control lets me choose bold or regular, so I can tailor each cup to my mood—strong if I need a kick, milder if I’m easing into the day.
Filling the water reservoir is a breeze with the clear window. No more guessing if I added enough or too much water.
I love the Brew Pause feature, which lets me sneak a cup before the cycle finishes—perfect for those mornings when I can’t wait. Plus, the 24-hour programmability means I wake up to fresh coffee, no rush or fuss.
The auto-off function is handy, giving peace of mind if I forget to shut it off. The overall design feels intuitive, and the controls are simple to navigate.
It’s a reliable machine that makes my daily routine smoother, all while looking good on my countertop.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker with 72oz Reservoir
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Large, easy-fill reservoir
- ✓ Precise flavor extraction
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Longer brew time than single-use models
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 72 ounces |
| Brew Sizes | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz single cups; 6, 8, 10, 12-cup carafes |
| Brewing Technology | MultiStream technology for even saturation |
| Brewing Options | K-Cup pods and coffee grounds; brew over ice; strong brew; extra hot |
| Control Panel | Front-facing, programmable for auto brew up to 24 hours |
| Reservoir Type | Removable, shared 72oz capacity |
This Keurig K-Duo has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and finally getting my hands on it felt like a breakthrough. The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, space-saving design—it’s surprisingly compact given all it offers.
As I set it up, I loved how easy the reservoir was to fill, thanks to its 72oz size and front-facing panel. No more constant refills mid-morning.
The dual brewing options are a game changer—being able to brew both K-Cups and ground coffee means endless versatility.
The MultiStream technology really impressed me. Every cup, hot or cold, was full of flavor because the water saturates the grounds evenly.
I especially enjoyed the brew-over-ice feature—my iced coffee came out perfectly chilled, with just the right amount of flavor without excess melting.
The adjustable brew sizes are handy, letting me pick from 6 to 12 ounces or a full carafe. The glass carafe is sturdy and designed to avoid drips, which keeps the countertop clean.
I also appreciated the strong brew and extra hot options—they’re perfect for days when I want a bolder, hotter cup.
Using the programmable auto-brew was a breeze. I set it the night before, and my coffee was ready right on time.
The pause-and-pour function is super convenient, especially when I’m in a rush.
Overall, this machine combines flexibility with ease of use, making it ideal for mornings when I want quick, quality coffee or a larger batch for sharing. It’s a little pricier, but the features justify the cost for daily coffee lovers.
Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Grinder and Timer
- ✓ Freshly ground beans
- ✓ Precise pre-brew tech
- ✓ Programmable timer
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ No automatic shut-off
| Capacity | 10 cups (approximately 50 ounces or 1.48 liters) |
| Pre-brew Technology | Specialized pre-brew hydration with precise temperature control |
| Grind Settings | 3 grind levels with 8 settings each |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds |
| Filter Type | Reusable rinseable filter |
| Dimensions | 12.36″ D x 8.38″ W x 16.93″ H |
It’s early morning, and I’m standing in my cramped kitchen, trying to get my caffeine fix before the chaos begins. I grab the Gevi 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Grinder and Timer, noticing how sleek its black and silver finish instantly elevates my space.
The first thing I love is the built-in grinder. I pop in whole beans, select my grind level, and watch the machine do its thing.
It’s satisfying to see fresh grounds being prepared just before brewing, which makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
The pre-brew technology is a game changer. I’ve noticed that my coffee tastes richer and more balanced because the machine meticulously hydrates the grounds at the right temperature.
The 10-cup capacity is perfect for my mornings, and I appreciate how easy it is to program the timer the night before.
Using the “POWDER 2-10” button, I can quickly adjust the strength for different days—sometimes I want a bolder brew, other times just a lighter sip. The reusable filter is a bonus, making cleanup simple and eco-friendly.
It’s a solid choice for anyone who loves fresh coffee and values convenience. The compact size fits well on my counter, though you should double-check your cabinet height.
Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile machine that transforms my morning routine from rushed to enjoyable.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Non-Drip Carafe
- ✓ Even saturation for rich flavor
- ✓ No-drip pour spout
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Needs quick return of carafe
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (standard for coffee makers) |
| Brewing Technology | Vortex showerhead for even saturation |
| Carafe Material | Non-drip, likely glass with spill-proof spout |
| Features | Sneak-A-Cup pause function, Keep Hot plate, Removable dishwasher-safe brew basket |
| Dimensions | Standard countertop size for 12-cup coffee makers |
Compared to other coffee makers I’ve handled, this BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup model immediately feels more refined, especially with its sleek non-drip carafe that feels sturdy in your hand. The moment you pick it up, you notice how the spout is perfectly designed to prevent drips, which is a game-changer during busy mornings.
The VORTEX TECHNOLOGY really stands out, helping to evenly saturate the coffee grounds. It’s like having a barista’s attention to detail right in your kitchen, extracting maximum flavor with each brew.
You’ll appreciate how consistent the water distribution is, making your coffee taste richer and more balanced.
The Sneak-A-Cup feature is surprisingly handy. You can pour your first cup mid-brew without making a mess, which is perfect when you’re racing against the clock.
Just remember to return the carafe quickly to avoid overflow—something I learned the hard way during my test.
The no-drip pour spout keeps spills at bay, saving you from those annoying drips on your countertop. Cleanup is a breeze too, thanks to the dishwasher-safe brew basket.
Plus, the Keep Hot plate ensures your coffee stays warm without burning or drying out.
Overall, this coffee maker blends smart technology with practical features that fit into real-life mornings. It’s a reliable, easy-to-use option if you want rich flavor without fuss, although it’s not the most compact model out there.
What Criteria Does Gizmodo Use to Recommend the Best Coffee Makers?
Gizmodo uses several criteria to recommend the best coffee makers:
- Brewing Performance: This criterion evaluates how well the coffee maker brews coffee, including factors such as temperature consistency, brew time, and flavor extraction. A coffee maker that brews at the optimal temperature and produces a rich, flavorful cup is highly rated.
- Ease of Use: This involves assessing how user-friendly the coffee maker is, including features like intuitive controls, ease of setup, and maintenance. A coffee maker that is straightforward to operate and clean will score better in this category.
- Durability and Build Quality: Gizmodo considers the materials used in the construction of the coffee maker, as well as its overall sturdiness. A well-built coffee maker that can withstand daily use without issues is favored over those that may break easily.
- Versatility: This criterion looks at the coffee maker’s ability to brew different types of coffee, such as espresso, drip coffee, or cold brew. Models that offer multiple brewing options or customizable settings are rated higher for their flexibility.
- Price and Value: Gizmodo evaluates whether the coffee maker offers a good balance between cost and performance. A coffee maker that delivers excellent quality and features at a reasonable price is more likely to be recommended.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: The reputation of the manufacturer and customer reviews play a significant role in Gizmodo’s recommendations. Established brands with positive feedback from users are often given preference due to their track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.
Which Coffee Makers Are Consistently Featured by Gizmodo?
The best coffee makers consistently featured by Gizmodo include a range of models that cater to different brewing preferences and styles.
- Brew Express BEC-110BS: This coffee maker is unique for its built-in water line connection, allowing for automatic brewing without the need for manual filling. It delivers fresh coffee directly into your cup, making it a convenient option for daily use.
- Technivorm Cup-One: The Technivorm Cup-One is designed for single-serve coffee lovers who appreciate high-quality brewing. It uses precise temperature control and a unique brewing method to extract the best flavors from coffee grounds, ensuring a perfect cup every time.
- Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker: This model stands out for its customizable brewing options, allowing users to adjust the strength and flavor profile according to their preferences. It features a sleek design and advanced technology that ensures consistent brewing results, making it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts.
- Bonavita Connoisseur: Known for its simplicity and efficiency, the Bonavita Connoisseur offers a one-touch brewing system that produces flavorful coffee quickly. It also features a pre-infusion mode that allows the coffee grounds to bloom before brewing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Nespresso VertuoPlus: The Nespresso VertuoPlus is ideal for those who enjoy espresso and coffee in various cup sizes. It uses barcode technology to adjust brewing parameters for each capsule, delivering a rich and creamy coffee experience with minimal effort.
What Unique Features Do the Top Coffee Makers Offer?
The top coffee makers offer a variety of unique features that enhance brewing quality and user experience.
- Smart Technology: Many modern coffee makers integrate smart technology, allowing users to control brewing settings via smartphone apps. This feature often includes scheduling brews, adjusting strength, and even receiving notifications when the coffee is ready.
- Single-Serve Options: Single-serve coffee makers provide convenience by allowing users to brew one cup at a time, using pre-packaged pods or ground coffee. This is ideal for those who want a fresh cup without the hassle of making a full pot, and many models offer customizable brew sizes and strengths.
- Cold Brew Functionality: Some coffee makers come with a built-in cold brew option, making it easy to prepare refreshing cold coffee beverages. This feature typically includes a special brewing system that steepes coffee grounds in cold water for several hours for a smooth and rich flavor.
- Built-in Grinder: Coffee makers with built-in grinders allow users to brew coffee from freshly ground beans. This feature ensures maximum flavor and aroma by grinding the beans just before brewing, and many models offer adjustable grind settings for different brewing methods.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for optimal coffee extraction, and many premium coffee makers offer this feature. Users can set the brewing temperature to their preference, which can significantly affect the taste and quality of the final cup.
- Self-Cleaning Function: To maintain hygiene and performance, some coffee makers come with a self-cleaning feature that simplifies the cleaning process. This is particularly valuable for busy individuals, as it helps reduce maintenance time and ensures great tasting coffee with every brew.
- Multi-Functionality: Many of the best coffee makers are designed to brew various types of coffee, including espresso, cappuccino, and drip coffee. This versatility caters to diverse tastes and preferences, making it a great investment for coffee enthusiasts.
How Do Gizmodo-Recommended Coffee Makers Compare to Other Brands?
| Brand | Features | Price | User Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gizmodo Recommended | High-quality brewing, smart technology, easy to clean | $100 – $300 depending on model and features | 4.5/5 – Highly rated by users for performance |
| Specific Models | Breville Barista Express, Technivorm Cup-One | $200 – $300 | 4.7/5 – Praised for quality and design |
| Other Brands | Varies widely; some may lack advanced features | $30 – $200; budget options available | 3.5/5 – Mixed reviews, reliability varies |
| Warranty Information | 2 years on average for Gizmodo recommended | 1 year for most other brands | N/A |
| Energy Efficiency Ratings | Energy Star certified models available | Standard efficiency; varies by model | N/A |
What User Feedback and Reviews Highlight the Strengths of These Coffee Makers?
User feedback and reviews on the best coffee makers highlighted by Gizmodo emphasize various strengths that appeal to coffee enthusiasts.
- Brewing Consistency: Many users appreciate coffee makers that deliver a consistent brew quality, ensuring each cup tastes as good as the last. This reliability often stems from precise temperature control and brewing time, which are crucial for extracting the best flavors from coffee grounds.
- User-Friendly Interface: Reviews often mention the ease of use of certain coffee makers, which feature intuitive controls and clear displays. Models that allow for simple programming and customization options cater to both novice and experienced brewers, making the coffee-making process accessible for everyone.
- Durability and Build Quality: Feedback frequently highlights coffee makers that are built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand daily use. Users value appliances that not only perform well but also maintain their functionality over time without frequent repairs or replacements.
- Versatility: Many coffee lovers enjoy machines that offer multiple brewing options, such as single-serve or full pot capabilities. This versatility allows users to adapt their brewing style depending on their needs, whether it’s for a quick morning cup or for hosting guests.
- Temperature Control: Reviews often point out the importance of temperature stability during the brewing process, as it can significantly affect the taste of the coffee. Models that provide precise temperature settings allow users to achieve their preferred brewing conditions, enhancing flavor extraction.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: User feedback commonly praises coffee makers that are easy to clean and maintain, as this is a crucial factor for many owners. Features such as removable parts, dishwasher-safe components, and self-cleaning functions make it simpler to keep the coffee maker in good condition.
- Design and Aesthetics: Many reviews note that the appearance of the coffee maker is also important to users, with sleek, modern designs being favored. A visually appealing coffee maker can enhance the kitchen’s overall look while still being functional.
- Value for Money: Users often highlight coffee makers that provide excellent performance at a reasonable price. This value proposition is crucial for many buyers, who seek high-quality brewing without breaking the bank.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Buying a Coffee Maker?
When purchasing a coffee maker, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure you choose the best one for your needs.
- Not considering the type of coffee you prefer: It’s important to think about whether you enjoy espresso, drip coffee, or single-serve options. Different coffee makers excel in different types, and selecting one that aligns with your coffee preferences will enhance your brewing experience.
- Ignoring the brewing capacity: Many forget to assess how much coffee they typically consume. If you often brew for multiple people or enjoy several cups yourself, a coffee maker with a larger capacity will save you time and effort compared to a smaller, single-serve model.
- Overlooking the ease of cleaning: Some coffee makers can be quite complicated to clean, which can lead to maintenance issues over time. Opting for a model that is easy to disassemble and has dishwasher-safe parts can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
- Neglecting the importance of features: Coffee makers come with various features such as programmable settings, built-in grinders, or thermal carafes. Understanding which features are essential for your routine can significantly impact your satisfaction with the machine.
- Focusing solely on price: While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in a quality coffee maker that fits your needs will likely provide better performance and longevity. Sometimes, spending a little more upfront can save you money on replacement machines in the future.
- Not checking customer reviews: Relying solely on brand reputation without looking at user feedback can lead to poor choices. Reading reviews can provide insights into reliability and performance that aren’t always evident from specifications alone.
How Can You Maintain Your Gizmodo-Recommended Coffee Maker for Longevity?
To maintain the longevity of your Gizmodo-recommended coffee maker, consider the following tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your coffee maker clean is essential for optimal performance and taste. Regularly wash removable parts like the carafe and filter basket with warm, soapy water, and run a vinegar and water solution through the machine to remove mineral buildup.
- Descaling: Descaling your coffee maker periodically helps to eliminate scale buildup that can affect heating efficiency. Depending on your water hardness, it’s advisable to descale every one to three months using a commercial descaler or a homemade solution of vinegar and water.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store your coffee maker in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ensuring it is dry before storage prevents mold and bacteria growth, which can compromise the machine’s components and your coffee’s flavor.
- Use High-Quality Water: The quality of water used can significantly impact both the flavor of your coffee and the longevity of your machine. Using filtered water reduces mineral buildup and impurities that can clog and damage internal parts over time.
- Check and Replace Filters: If your coffee maker uses a water filter, be sure to check and replace it regularly as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. A clean filter ensures that only pure water is used, enhancing the taste of your coffee and preventing blockages in the water system.