For most of us, our morning is not complete without a delicious cup of coffee. Whether you prefer a cappuccino or an iced coffee, the rich, bold taste of coffee gives you the energy you need to start your day. Instead of waiting in long lines at your local cafe, wouldn’t it be nice to make your own coffee beverages at home?
With so many different machines available, there is something out there for everyone. From french presses to capsule espresso machines, you can make anything from plain black coffee to whipped foam lattes with the push of a button. These devices are compact, inexpensive, and full of unique features that make it easier than ever to create your favorite coffee drinks right from home.
To help you determine which is right for you, we review some of the best coffee makers and grinders on the market. We also include a short shopping guide with tips for finding the coffee-making features that are most important to you.
Best Coffee Makers of 2024
Best Drip Coffee Maker Overall
Technivorm Moccamaster KBT Coffee Brewer
Connoisseurs everywhere will love the pure coffee taste that comes with the Moccamaster. With an ideal water saturation and a unique copper heating element that brews in 4 to 6 minutes, this machine produces aromatic, flavorful coffee with every cup.
$309 on AmazonBest Overall Drip Coffee Maker: Technivorm Moccamaster KBT Coffee Brewer
Best Programmable Coffee Maker: Cuisinart DCC – 3200
Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker: Breville Precision
Best Quick Brew Coffee Maker: Bunn NHS Velocity
Best Pour Over Coffee Maker: OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker
Best Single Serve Coffee Maker: Hamilton Beach 49976 FlexBrew
Most User-Friendly Coffee Maker: KitchenAid 12-cup Coffee Maker
Best Carafe Coffee Maker: Zojirushi Thermal Carafe
Best Entry Level Espresso Machine: Breville Bambino Plus
Best Compact Espresso Machine: Nespresso Essenza Mini
Best Espresso Machine With Attached Steam Wand: Breville Barista Express
Best Capsule Espresso Machine: Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe
Best French Press: Bodum Chambord French Press
Best Coffee Grinder: Baratza Encore Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
Best Espresso Grade Grinder: Rancilio Rocky Espresso Grade Grinder
Best Drip Coffee Maker Overall
Technivorm Moccamaster KBT Coffee Brewer
- 4oz/10 cup capacity
- Thermal carafe container
- 4-6 minute brew time
- Available in polished silver, stone grey, and black
- 5-year warranty
Since 1968, Technivorm has created high-quality machines that combine their unique industrial design with the art of coffee making. The Moccamaster Coffee Brew has been certified by the ECBC (European Coffee Brewing Centre) and the SCA (Speciality Coffee Association) since 1975. This testing ensures the coffee has four key elements that produce a pure coffee taste. These elements are known as the 4 Ts—temperature, time, turbulence, and total dissolved solids (TDS).
Via its copper boiling unit, the Moccamaster brews between 196 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit, and holds the coffee between 175 and 185 degrees thanks to its independent hot plate. The brewing cycle lasts between 4 to 6 minutes and produces 10 cups of perfectly brewed coffee. This machine also provides the ideal turbulence for even extraction and a low TDS rating. This low rating ensures that there are little to no minerals and salts in the coffee that could cause a bitter aftertaste.
With a BPA and phthalate-free plastic construction and a sleek, timeless design, this machine will look great in any kitchen. For the first 5 years of use, Technivorm will repair or replace any defects, so you can continue to enjoy fantastic coffee for a long time. If you are looking for an advanced, yet easy to use drip coffee maker that produces a superior cup of your favorite blend, the Moccamaster is an excellent choice.
Best Programmable Coffee Maker
Cuisinart DCC – 3200
- 14 cup capacity
- Glass carafe with stainless steel handle
- Programmable up to 24 hours in advance
- Available in 8 different colors
- 3-year warranty
Like most Cuisinart products, their DCC – 3200 coffee brewer is a sturdy, reliable appliance that produces great coffee. This machine uses a thermal extraction technology and a permanent Gold-Tone filter to produce smooth tasting coffee with a rich aroma. The glass carafe can be preset to hold your coffee at an ideal temperature. If you prefer to add milk or cream to your coffee, you may want to set a higher temperature so it is piping hot when you are ready for it. If you prefer your coffee black and want to drink it right away, you can opt for a lower setting.
The housing of this machine is made of lightweight yet durable, plastic available in 8 different colors. A backlit control panel and LCD screen allow for quick programming. The Cuisinart coffee brewer can be preset up to 24 hours in advance, so your coffee can be waiting for you each morning. As the machine brews a full 14 cups, you can pause the brewing process, pour yourself a cup, and continue brewing once you replace the carafe. This feature is perfect for busy mornings when you can’t wait for your first cup of coffee.
Tip: The Cuisinart DCC – 3200 originally costs $185.00, but it is available right now for $99.95 on Cuisinart.com.
Best Cold-Brew Coffee Maker
Breville Precision
- 60 oz capacity
- Thermal stainless steel carafe
- 6 automatic presets
- SCA certified brewing technology
- 1-year warranty
The Breville Precision coffee brewer offers convenience and control with its 6 preset functions—gold, fast, strong, iced, cold brew, and my brew. With the “gold” preset, the machine automatically adjusts the water temperature, brew time, and turbulence to the standards set by the SCA. This setting is an easy way to get a perfectly brewed cup of coffee with the push of a button. If you prefer more control, you can select the “my brew” function. This setting allows you to create your own bloom time, water flow rate, and brewing temperature. This versatility gives you the best of both worlds.
In addition to these two settings, the machine allows you to create iced coffee and cold brew. If you crave something refreshing, but still want a strong, rich coffee flavor, these functions are ideal. The Breville Precision also has dual filter baskets, a flat bottom, and a cone filter that brew 1 to 4 cups or up to 14 cups. The stainless steel thermal carafe holds your brewed coffee at a preset temperature until you are ready to enjoy it. To back up the quality and construction of the machine, Breville also includes a 1-year warranty.
Best Quick Brew Coffee Maker
Bunn NHS Velocity
- 4 to 10 cup capacity
- 3 minute brew time
- Exclusive drip-free carafe
- Large flat button filter and multi-stream spray head
- 3-year warranty
In just 3 minutes, the Bunn NHS Velocity brews a full carafe of coffee. The internal water tank continuously heats the water to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, so hot coffee is always on hand. With the “vacation” switch, you can turn this feature off if you won’t be using the coffee maker for a few days.
Bunn’s proprietary drip-free carafe features a lid and spout design that arcs the pour and wicks the coffee droplets back into the carafe. This unique feature prevents any coffee from splattering onto your table or countertop.
The Bunn NHS has a multi-stream spray shower head that evenly distributes hot water on the coffee grounds. With a large flat button filter and funnel, this brewing process allows for great flavor extraction and a smoother taste.
“In just 3 minutes, the Bunn NHS Velocity brews a full 10-cups of coffee. The internal water tank continuously heats the water to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, so hot coffee is always on hand.”
Best Pour Over Coffee Maker
OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker
- 9 cup capacity
- Double-wall stainless steel carafe
- SCA approved brewing process
- Single dial control
- BetterBrew proprietary brewing process
The OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker features a brewing method approved by the coffee experts at SCA. The microprocessor-controlled brew cycle and rainmaker shower head mimic the pour-over method, which creates clean, authentic tasting coffee. A 9-gallon water chamber holds water between 197.6 to 204.8 degrees Fahrenheit. With hot water on hand, an excellent cup of coffee is only minutes away.
A single dial on the front of the machine controls the wake-up timer and number of desired cups. Using the dial, you can choose to make between 1 and 9 cups. Once the coffee is brewed, an insulated thermal carafe keeps the coffee hot from the first to the last cup. A backlit LED screen displays the brewing status and freshness, so you know the second your coffee is ready to drink.
Best Single Serve Coffee Maker
Hamilton Beach 49976 FlexBrew
- 12 cup capacity
- Dual brewing system uses single-serve
cups or ground coffee - Glass carafe
- 2-hour auto-shutoff
- Fits coffee cup or 8-inch tall travel mug
The Hamilton Beach 49976 FlexBrew offers two ways to brew your coffee—a full 12 cup brew cycle or a single cup brew. The single-serving side of the machine uses either ground coffee or single-serve pods. With grounds, the device produces 14 ounces of coffee. With the single-serve pods, it makes 10 ounces. This machine is tall enough to fit an 8-inch tall travel cup so you can take your coffee with you as you head out the door.
The other side of the machine brews a full pot of coffee with your choice of grounds. This side also has a programmable timer, auto pause, and a 2-hour auto-shutoff. Each side of the machine has its own water reservoir with a viewing window—making it easy to monitor how much water the machine has. Both sides also use Hamilton Beach’s Flexbrew system, which only heats the water when you’re ready to brew. This feature helps you conserve energy and brew robust and flavorful coffee.
Tip: The Hamilton Beach 49976 FlexBrew is now available for $89.99 on Amazon, including free shipping.
Most User-Friendly Coffee Maker
KitchenAid 12-Cup Coffee Maker
- 12 cup capacity
- Insulated carafe sleeve
- Variable brew strength settings
- Small-batch brew mode
- Available in onyx black or white
The KitchenAid 12-Cup Coffee Maker is the most user-friendly coffee maker on our list because it comes with a simple one-touch brewing process. With this machine, users can select between regular or bold strength and different brew sizes. The LED screen displays the time and current presets, such as brew strength and batch size. This control panel also features a “brew pause.” The pause function allows you to stop the brewing process so you can pour yourself a cup of coffee before the machine completes the full cycle.
This KitchenAid coffee maker comes in a sleek design that resembles KitchenAid’s well-known stand mixer. The design is available in ether onyx black or white and looks great on any kitchen countertop. When brewing, coffee is collected in the machine’s glass carafe, which is dishwasher safe and features a no-slip pour spout. To keep your coffee hot, you can place the insulated sleeve around the carafe until you are ready for it.
Best Carafe Coffee Maker
Zojirushi Thermal Carafe Coffee Maker
- 10 cup capacity
- Insulated stainless steel carafe
- Removable water tank with measure lines
- Reusable and permanent stainless steel mesh filter
- Time saver mode
For over 100 years, Zojirushi has created a wide range of high-quality kitchen appliances, such as rice cookers, breadmakers, and cookware. Their coffee maker features a vacuum insulated stainless steel carafe that keeps coffee hot for hours after brewing. This carafe prevents coffee from having a burnt flavor that can sometimes result from a hot plate feature. When the carafe is removed from the machine, a drip prevention mechanism stops coffee from spilling.
A removable water tank makes cleaning and filling easy. Plus, this tank is marked for brewing iced coffee. By filling the Zojirushi water tank to the iced coffee fill line, the machine adjusts the water-to-coffee ratio for an intense flavor that won’t be watered down when added to ice. This portion produces 5 cups of perfectly balanced iced coffee. Every part of this machine is also removable and washable, including the permanent stainless steel mesh coffee filter. An indicator light will even let users know when cleaning is needed.
“By filling the Zojirushi water tank to the iced coffee fill line, the machine adjusts the water-to- coffee ratio for an intense flavor that won’t be watered down when added to ice. This portion produces 5 cups of perfectly balanced iced coffee.”
Best Entry Level Espresso Machine
Breville Bambino Plus
- 64-ounce capacity
- 15 bar Italian made pump
- 3 second heating time
- Automatic milk texturing wand
- 2-year limited warranty
If you want to start making authentic tasting espresso drinks such as cappuccinos and Americanos, the Breville Bambino Plus is a great entry-level espresso machine. This machine has a 15 bar Italian made pump with a low-pressure pre-infusion. This process gradually increases pressure for an even extraction process. Combined with the 54mm portafilter, which holds 19 grams of espresso grounds, this extraction process creates a full-bodied and balanced espresso flavor.
The Breville Bambino Plus features a Digital Temperature Control (PID controller) that automatically adjusts the water temperature for optimal extraction. An auto-purge system rids the heating system of steam, so each extraction process is done at the same temperature. Attached to the machine is an automatic steam wand, which makes it easy to create delicious microfoam. This foam adds richness and texture to your espresso drinks and is perfect for latte designs.
Best Compact Espresso Machine
Nespresso Essenza Mini
- Compact espresso machine
- 19 bars of pressure
- Automatic milk frothing wand
- 25 second heating time
- 1-year limited warranty
The Essenza Mini is one of the smallest espresso machines on the market. This device uses Nespresso’s patented capsule system, which allows you to brew high-quality espresso with the push of a button. Although this machine is small, it has a 19 bar pump for an intense flavor. Two pre-programmed settings let you choose between 0.84 oz or 1.35 oz shots. If you want to add volume to your espresso drinks, the 1.35 oz option is ideal.
This small machine has a removable drip tray and a capsule collection container that holds 6 used capsules. The 20.3-ounce water tank is removable, and water can be heated and ready to brew in just 25 seconds. If you prefer steamed milk with your latte, you can purchase Nespresso’s Aeroccino3 automatic milk frother. This small and easily portable cylinder whips milk to a smooth, creamy texture.
Tip: The Essenza Mini is originally $149, but this compact machine is currently available for $134.99 on Amazon, this includes Nespresso’s welcome kit with 14 espresso capsules.
Best Espresso Machine with Attached Steam Wand
Breville Barista Express
- 15 bar Italian made pump
- Attached steam wand
- Built-in grinder
- Digital temperature control extraction process
- 1-year warranty
If you are looking for an espresso machine that can grind beans, brew espresso, and steam milk, the Breville Barista Express is an excellent choice. The conical burr grinder can produce between 19 to 22 grams of fresh espresso grade grounds. This dosing is ideal for creating a strong espresso flavor with a rich aroma. The machine distributes the grounds right into the portafilter, making it easy for you to tamper down the coffee and lock the filter in place.
With 15 bars of pressure and digital temperature control (PID) technology, the extraction process creates espresso with balanced and smooth texture. The Breville Barista Express comes with a steam wand for creating warm milk or creamy micro-foam. Breville even includes a 12-ounce milk frothing pitcher that keeps the liquid warm until you are ready to pour it.
Best Capsule Espresso and Coffee Machine
Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe
- 19 bar pump
- 20 second heating time
- 5 preset cup sizes
- Compatible with espresso and coffee capsules
- 1-year warranty
The VertuoPlus features Nespresso’s unique extraction technology, Certifusion. This technology allows the machine to automatically adjust the pressure and temperature for each different type of capsule shape. The VertuoPlus brews both Nespresso’s classic line espresso pods or their new Vertuo coffee pods. When brewing espresso, you can opt for a 1.35 ounce or 2.7-ounce shot. This machine also brews 5-ounce Gran Lungo, 8-ounce coffee, or 14-ounce Alto capsules.
This machine heats up in about 20 minutes, and the capsule system is easy to use. Simply place the capsule in the device, pull the lever, and you are ready to press the button to start the brewing process. You can bundle the VertuoPlus with Nespresso’s Aeroccino3 to create hot or cold milk froth for your coffee or espresso beverages. This machine is perfect for you if you want the freedom to make both coffee and espresso at home.
“You can bundle the VertuoPlus with Nespresso’s Aeroccino3 to create hot or cold milk froth for your coffee or espresso beverages. This machine is perfect for you if you want the freedom to make both coffee and espresso at home.”
Best French Press
Bodum Chambord French Press
- Makes 8 cups of 4-ounce coffee
- Brews in just 4 minutes
- 3-part stainless steel plunger with mesh filter
- Shatterproof glass beaker
- Dishwasher safe beaker, plunger, and filter
Many people prefer the strong taste of pressed coffee because it is steeped rather than filtered. Since the 1950s, Bodum has created their iconic Chambord French Press with great care and attention to detail. This press features a Borosilicate glass beaker that is recyclable and shatterproof. The stainless steel spiral plate and mesh filter allow the perfect amount of oils and acids to seep out of each bean for a rich, bold coffee taste.
The Chambord French Press makes 8 cups of 4-ounce coffee with a full beaker of water. Both the glass, plunger, and filter are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. This device also uses Bodum’s patented safety lid to prevent hot coffee from spilling out during pouring. If you are in the market for a high-quality french press, you can’t go wrong with the Bodum Chambord.
Best Coffee Grinder
Baratza Encore Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
- 40 grind settings
- 40mm commercial-grade conical burrs
- Small, compact machine
- Available in black and white
- 1-year warranty
The Baratza Encore is the preferred grinder of many coffee shops and restaurants. With 40 different grind settings, users can produce the ideal grounds for espresso, french press coffee, or drip coffee. To adjust the grind size, simply turn the hopper to your preferred size and press start. The front-mounted pulse button gives you further control of the texture of your coffee grounds.
The grinder has 40mm commercial-grade conical burrs and a DC motor. This combination gives you enough power to grind whole beans without worry about breaking or overheating the motor. Backed by a 1-year warranty, this grinder will last you longer than less expensive grinders.
Best Espresso Grade Ginder
Rancilio Rocky Espresso Grade Grinder
- 50mm commercial-grade grinding burrs
- Attached portafilter for easy brewing
- Tinted hopper with a 0.65-pound capacity
- 166-watt direct-drive motor
- Grinds 7.7 pounds per hour
The Rancilio Rocky Coffee Grinder allows you to grind your own espresso right from home. This machine has 50mm conical burrs that can grind up to 7.7 pounds of coffee beans per hour. A 166-watt direct-drive motor spins the hopper at 1725 RPMs, so it only takes minutes to produce super fine espresso grade coffee grounds.
Users can adjust the size of the grounds by unlocking the lever and spinning the bean hopper to the preferred size. The machine distributes the coffee into an attached portafilter, so it is easy to transfer to your espresso machine.
Buyer’s Guide
As you can see from our list above, coffee makers are available in a wide variety of types. Some make espresso, some produce only regular coffee, while others do both. We offer a handy buyer’s guide below to help you make sense of each feature and determine if the machine is right for you.
5 Different Coffee Brewing Styles
All coffee starts with one thing, coffee beans. However, the size of the coffee grounds and the brewing process can change the look, taste, texture, and aroma of the coffee. The following are the most common ways to brew coffee.
- Filtered coffee: Also referred to as “drip coffee,” this brewing process entails running hot water through ground coffee beans. For filtered coffee, beans are ground to a medium-grade and placed inside the brewing basket of a standard drip coffee maker. The grounds are typically placed inside a paper or mesh filter to ensure your coffee is free of grounds. This brewing process lasts about 6 to 8 minutes. Some machines use single-serving pods or capsules to make this process more convenient.
- Espresso: The espresso brewing process involves running hot water through finely-ground coffee beans with less water and more pressure than drip coffee. For a machine to be able to produce authentic espresso, it must have at least 9 bars of pressure. This pressure creates a smaller, more concentrated portion of coffee but with a creamier texture. Espresso is more caffeinated than regular coffee. 1 ounce of espresso has about 63 mg of caffeine, while drip coffee has about 100 mg of caffeine per 8 ounces. An espresso machine can use either capsules or espresso-grade grounds that are packed into a portafilter.
- French press coffee: Pressed or steeped coffee is brewed by pouring boiling water over the top of coarse coffee grounds. These grounds are then left to steep for 4 minutes. Then, a plunger is used to press the coffee grounds to the bottom of the beaker. Once all the grounds are separated, the coffee can be poured.
- Pour Over: Like a french press, the pour over method involves steeping. However, pour over utilizes a cup, a filter, and a dripper or funnel. A very slow, yet steady, stream of hot water is poured over the medium coffee grounds and drains into your cup. This process takes longer than a french press or a drip coffee maker. But, many people find that it produces a more complex flavor.
- Cold brew: Coffee brew coffee is created by soaking grounds in cold water for up to 20 hours. The longer the soaking process, the stronger the flavor. Cold brew is not only stronger than most filtered coffee but it is also less acidic and less bitter. To craft your own cold brew at home, you can purchase a machine that does it for you or you can use a french press.
Types of Coffee Makers
The various coffee makers on the market use one or several of the brewing methods described above. The following are the most popular types of machines you will find while shopping.
As you decide which style of coffee maker is best for you, it is helpful first to consider what type of drinks you enjoy most. If you prefer a latte or an Americano each morning, you may find an espresso machine to be more useful. However, if you like strong, traditional drip coffee, you should opt for a filtered coffee maker, french press, or the pour-over method.
Drip/Filtered Coffee Maker
Automatic drip coffee makers each have similar features. These machines consist of a brewing basket that houses the filter and the coffee grounds, and a water tank that runs hot water through the grounds. A carafe that collects the brewed coffee is typically made of glass or stainless steel. Where these machines tend to vary is in materials, construction, brewing sizes, water temperature, and programmable features.
- Materials: The housing of most coffee makers features a BPA-free plastic and stainless steel design. However, the carafe may be made of thermal insulation stainless steel or glass. Both materials have pros and cons. Thermal carafes keep the coffee hot longer and are more durable. Glass carafes are less expensive and widely available, but they tend to chip and break easily.
- Brewing size: Some machines brew up to 12 cups of coffee, while others only offer a single serving. If you want the ability to create a variety of brew sizes, be sure to pick a machine that lets you choose 1 serving or up to 9 to 12 cups.
- Water saturation and temperature: The ideal water temperature for drip coffee is between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. The water system should also ensure that the coffee grounds are soaked evenly. This feature will create a more balanced coffee taste.
- Programmable features: Most machines on the market come with functions such as auto shut-off, programmable brew times, and brewing adjustments (brew size and temperature). These features typically make the brewing process much more convenient.
Espresso Machine
There are 5 different styles of espresso machines on the market. These machines vary in terms of the control you have over the brewing process. For example, a manual machine needs a more hands-on approach, while a super-automatic or capsule machine requires minimal work. Below, we outline the 5 most common types of espresso machines.
- Manual machines: These machines give you complete control of the brewing process. Espresso grounds are placed in the portafilter and tamped down. Then, the portafilter is locked into the machine, and a lever is pulled to force water through the grounds.
- Semi-automatic machines: A semi-automatic machine has a similar process to a manual machine, but these machines use a button that automatically pushes the water through the grounds.
- Automatic machines: These machines brew with the push of a button, but allow users to control the size of the espresso shot. Most automatic machines will enable you to brew either a single or double shot of espresso.
- Super-automatic machines: Super-automatic machines grind, pack, and tamp down the espresso grounds for you. These machines do not typically have a removable portafilter. Brewing begins when you press a button and hot, pressurized water runs through the grounds.
- Capsule machines: Some companies pack espresso-grade grounds into a small pod or capsule. Machines designed to brew espresso capsules are strong enough to force pressurized hot water through the capsule. Capsule machines can either be semi-automatic, automatic, or super-automatic. Some devices with a portafilter can also be used with a pod. Specifically designed capsules are flat and can be placed inside the portafilter before brewing.
French Press
A french press offers a simple, traditional way to brew your coffee. You can also use a french press to create your own cold brew coffee too.
For the most part, these machines feature a beaker, a filter, a plunger, and a lid. However, the brewing process can change slightly depending on the beaker’s material. The following are some of the most common materials used in a french press.
- BPA-free plastic: French presses made out of plastic are generally designed for travel. Most travel presses can brew between 12 to 34 ounces of coffee.
- Glass: Glass beakers are standard when it comes to french presses. They typically have a stainless steel housing that holds the beaker in place and protects it. Since glass beakers can be fragile, it is best to look for one that is shatterproof.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel beakers are more durable than glass and tend to retain heat longer.
Pour Over Brewing
Since the pour over method is fairly basic, there is not a lot of equipment needed. However, to make the process easier for you, we have outlined what you need to create your own pour over coffee.
- Dripper or funnel: This sits on top of your cup or carafe and holds the filter and coffee grounds.
- Paper filter: There are several different types of paper filters on the market, so you will want to shop around for your favorite. However, the filter must fit your dripper. If the filter is too big, it can bunch up and slow the flow of water.
- Water kettle: A water or tea kettle makes it easy to pour the steady stream of hot water over the top of the grounds.
3 Types of Coffee Grinders
As mentioned above, the size grounds you need depends on the brew method you plan to use. You can easily purchase ground coffee in a variety of sizes and brew them in your new machine. However, if you want more control over the taste of your coffee, you can purchase a home coffee grinder. These devices are inexpensive and easy to use. The following are the 3 most common grinder types.
Manual Grinder
These grinders are inexpensive but require more work for the user. A manual grinder has a small container that is filled with whole beans. The handle on top must be manually turned to grind the coffee. The process is time-consuming and does not always produce an even grade.
Burr Grinder
These grinders consist of two metal or plastic burrs (rings) that spin to grind the beans. Burrs can be conical (cone) or flat shaped. Most burr grinders allow you to set your preferred grind size from fine to course automatically. This process creates the most consistent grind.
Blade Grinder
This type of grinder uses a blade that spines to pulverize the coffee beans. These machines are small and compact, allowing you to grind only a small amount at a time. Plus, it is often difficult to create a consistent texture with a blade grinder.
Different Grind Sizes
Below, we outline the different grind sizes and the coffee beverages they are most suited for.
- Very fine grounds: Strong espresso
- Fine grounds: Mild espresso
- Medium to fine grounds: Light espresso or strong pour over
- Medium grounds: Light pour over or drip coffee
- Course grounds: French press coffee or cold brew
FAQs
How often do I need to clean a coffee machine?
It is a good idea to rinse your machine after every use. Rinsing the machine will remove leftover grounds and coffee from the brew basket, lid, and carafe. A more thorough descaling process should be done every 3 months.
What is the life expectancy of a coffee machine?
Most high-quality coffee and espresso makers last roughly 10 years. Cleaning the machine regularly will keep it in good condition.
Is vinegar the best descaling solution?
You can use white vinegar, lemon juice, hot water, or baking soda for a natural descaling solution. Running this solution through your machine will remove any bacteria and built-up sediment from inside the machine. However, before running anything other than water through the machine, be sure to check the user manual.
What’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
Cold brew is coffee grounds that have been soaked in cold water for several hours. Some companies soak their cold brew grounds for up to 20 hours. After soaking the grounds, they are drained. This process makes the coffee stronger and less bitter.
Iced coffee is regular brewed coffee that is poured over ice. When making iced coffee, more grounds are used in the brewing process, so the coffee flavor is not diluted.
Can coffee go bad?
Coffee is perishable and can grow mold over time. Then tends to happen if the coffee grounds are left in a warm, humid spot. When coffee grows mold, it can develop mycotoxins, which can be harmful if ingested.
Conclusion
As you shop for a new coffee maker, it is essential to keep your needs in mind. If you want to create a variety of coffee drinks with ease, opt for a capsule machine that allows you to brew both coffee and espresso. However, if traditional drip coffee is your preferred beverage, you may want to invest in a high-quality filtered machine. Hopefully, the summaries above have helped narrow down your choices so you can find the perfect new addition to your kitchen.
