Getting Started

The most basic coffeemakers make at least a decent cup. In fact, one of our our top-rated multicup drip coffeemakers costs just $40 and beat out many higher-priced models. But you might want more features than a simple on/off switch. A little more money buys you conveniences such as an automatic timer, a thermal carafe to keep coffee hot longer, and settings that allow you to adjust brew strength. Use this coffeemaker guide to find the best coffee machine for your needs.

If one cup is enough to jump-start your day, choose a one- or two-cup drip model or single-serve pod machine. You'll probably use less coffee than you would with a full-size model. If you like multiple cups, choose a bigger machine. Most large models make 10 to 12 cups. Be wary of manufacturers' capacity claims. Most makers measure a cup as a scant 4 ounces.

If you space your coffee-drinking throughout the day, consider a model with an insulated mug or carafe. Those keep coffee hot and fresh-tasting for hours. The warming plates that come with glass pots can cause coffee to taste stale and burnt if it sits around for too long.

You'll want a clearly marked water reservoir so that you can see how much water you're putting in, a swing-out filter basket that's easy to use and clean, and simple, intuitive controls. Don't forget to factor in counter space. Some expensive models stick out a foot or more, but side-mounted controls mean that you can turn the machine sideways to occupy less space.

Espresso is made by a different process-forcing hot water through packed, finely ground coffee-so your regular coffeemaker won't cut it. Espresso makers range from a simple two-chamber pot to fully automatic machines.

Types

When shopping, you'll find several types of coffeemakers, including manual-drip systems, coffee presses, percolators, and "pod" coffeemakers that brew individual cups using ready-to-use packets of coffee. But consumers buy more automatic-drip coffeemakers than any other small kitchen appliance-about 14 million a year.

By far the most popular type, automatic-drip machines have you fill a chamber with water, load coffee into a filter basket, and flick a switch to heat the water and drip it through the filter into the pot. Popular brand names include Mr. Coffee and Black & Decker.

A newer type of machine, these force water through a little coffee packet, called a "pod," that fits the machine's dispenser. There's no measuring and spilling of grounds. To operate the coffeemaker, you typically fill the reservoir, put the pod in and scrunch it down, and push a series of buttons to produce a cup of coffee. These are more expensive to buy and operate than other types because you must also buy special coffee pods.

Types of espresso makers include simple manual stovetop models (typically a two-tiered metal pot), steam machines (in which steam pressure pushes hot water through the ground coffee) and electric pump versions. Electric pump versions can range from completely manual, in which you control the full brewing cycle, to fully automatic, in which the machine grinds the beans, makes the espresso and collects the spent grounds in a bin. Some machines use capsules or pods; others can use either ground coffee or pods.

Features

While even the most basic coffeemakers we tested made a good cup of coffee, some features make a machine easier and more convenient to use. Others you won't need. To decide which coffeemaker features you need, consider the list below.

These allow you to set the time the machine starts to brew--helpful if you need that coffee aroma to propel you out of bed. The settings are available on most full-size models.

An insulated carafe not only keeps coffee hot for hours but also prevents that "burnt" taste. Some one-cup coffeemakers come with thermal mugs you can take with you.

This adjusts the flow of water through the coffee grounds to prevent your getting a too-strong brew when making one to four cups.

This mechanism diverts water past the coffee grounds to produce a weaker brew. It also slows water flow to produce a stronger brew.

Impatient? Most machines let you pull away the carafe to fill a cup without spilling coffee all over the countertop. But if you pour after only a cup or two is in the pot, the coffee can be too strong.

Forgetful? This feature turns off the heating element automatically. Most machines shut off after a predetermined time span; others let you set the time.

If you're short on counter space, consider a model that you can turn sideways on the counter so it juts out less.

Most machines come with a one-year warranty, but some are guaranteed for three years. (Conversely, some lower-priced machines might have only a six-month warranty).

If you're accident-prone, you might want a model that comes with an extra pot or carafe. A replacement pot can cost $10 to $15 if you buy it separately; thermal carafes go for $25 to $75. If you need a spare pot in which to serve decaffeinated coffee to guests, consider buying a generic thermal carafe at a kitchen store.

There's little need for a special cycle that holds the cleaning solution in the machine longer. Go with running a mix of water and white vinegar--it works just as effectively.

This is supposed to eliminate odors and funny-tasting coffee. But you need to replace the filter after a specified number of pots (at about $5 per filter) to prevent bacteria buildup. If you're worried about water quality, a whole-house or faucet filter might be a better choice.

This setting preheats the carafe before the coffee drips in. In theory, that helps keep the coffee warmer longer. But in practice, it doesn't make much difference.

These can be annoying to use and clean. The grounds tend to spill, and you might need to upend the machine to empty out the residue. If you like to buy whole beans, get a separate grinder.

You can set the temperature of some hot plates, from about 160 to 190 degrees. But we found that all plates keep coffee hot enough, about 175 degrees.