Best Coffee Makers According to Consumer Reports: Ultimate Guide for 2025

What's in This Article

• Top Picks for Drip Coffee Makers
• Best Single-Serve Coffee Makers
• Premium Coffee Maker Options
• Budget-Friendly Coffee Makers
• Features to Look for in a Quality Coffee Maker
• FAQs About Coffee Makers

Quick Answer

Looking for the best coffee maker to start your morning right? According to Consumer Reports testing, the top coffee makers of 2025 include the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable CE251 for drip coffee lovers, the Nespresso CitiZ EN267 for single-serve enthusiasts, and the Cuisinart 14-Cup Brew Central for those who need a large capacity machine. Keep reading for our complete breakdown and money-saving tips from the Bargain Boxed team!

Introduction

A perfect cup of coffee can transform your morning routine, but finding the right coffee maker to match your preferences and budget can be challenging. At Bargain Boxed, we understand that a quality brewing machine is an essential kitchen investment. That's why we've carefully analyzed the latest Consumer Reports testing data to bring you this comprehensive guide to the best coffee makers of 2025.

Whether you're a casual coffee drinker who enjoys a simple cup to start your day or a connoisseur who appreciates the nuances of different brewing methods, we've got you covered. Our team has evaluated everything from brew performance and convenience to reliability and value to help you make an informed decision.

Top Picks for Drip Coffee Makers

Ninja 12-Cup Programmable CE251

The Ninja 12-Cup Programmable coffee maker consistently ranks among the top performers in Consumer Reports testing. This versatile machine delivers exceptional taste at an outstanding price point, making it our overall best recommendation.

Key Features:

• Programmable brewing for wake-up ready coffee
• Adjustable brew strength for customized flavor
• Easy-to-use, clear interface
• Excellent price-to-performance ratio
• 12-cup capacity perfect for families or coffee enthusiasts

The Ninja CE251 excels in both convenience and brewing quality, producing a rich, flavorful cup every time. Its intuitive controls and reliable performance have earned it top marks from both experts and everyday users.

Cuisinart 14-Cup Brew Central Programmable CBC-7200

For households with multiple coffee drinkers or those who entertain frequently, the Cuisinart 14-Cup Brew Central offers exceptional capacity without sacrificing quality.

Key Features:

• 14-cup glass carafe
• Meets Consumer Reports' brewing performance standards
• Intuitive, easy-to-understand controls
• Simple cleaning process
• Durable construction for long-term reliability

This Cuisinart model delivers consistent brewing performance that satisfies Consumer Reports' strict standards. The large capacity makes it ideal for serving multiple people without needing to brew a second pot.

Bunn Velocity Brew

Known for their commercial-grade coffee makers, Bunn brings professional quality to home brewing with their Velocity Brew model. Consumer Reports notes that Bunn coffee makers have earned an excellent reputation for owner satisfaction and reliability.

Key Features:

• Exceptionally fast brewing time
• Unique design with brewing mechanisms above the carafe
• Outstanding reliability ratings
• Commercial-inspired technology
• Consistent temperature control

While its design is unconventional compared to other home coffee makers, the Bunn Velocity Brew delivers exceptional performance that makes it worth considering for serious coffee enthusiasts.

Best Single-Serve Coffee Makers

Nespresso CitiZ EN267 Coffee Maker

For those who prefer the convenience of single-serve brewing without sacrificing quality, the Nespresso CitiZ EN267 stands out in Consumer Reports testing.

Key Features:

• Versatile brewing for both coffee and espresso
• Integrated milk frother for specialty drinks
• Top ratings for brew speed and consistency
• Sleek, space-saving design
• Uses Nespresso capsules for premium flavor

The Nespresso CitiZ delivers exceptional convenience combined with superior taste, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy variety in their coffee routine.

Keurig K-Elite

Keurig dominates the single-serve market with their extensive pod selection, and the K-Elite model represents their best combination of features and performance.

Key Features:

• Large water reservoir reduces refilling frequency
• Multiple cup size options
• Strong brew setting for more robust flavor
• Hot water on demand feature
• Compatible with the widest variety of K-Cup pods

According to Consumer Reports testing, the Keurig K-Elite offers the versatility and convenience that make K-Cup brewers popular while addressing some of the common criticisms about single-serve coffee quality.

Bella Dual Brew Single-Serve

For budget-conscious shoppers, the Bella Dual Brew offers impressive performance at a fraction of the price of other single-serve machines.

Key Features:

• Excellent first-cup speed ratings
• Compatible with both K-Cups and ground coffee
• Compact footprint ideal for small kitchens
• Simple operation with minimal buttons
• Outstanding value pricing

The Bella Dual Brew proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to get a reliable single-serve coffee maker that delivers hot, consistently sized cups quickly.

Premium Coffee Maker Options

Technivorm Moccamaster

For coffee enthusiasts willing to invest in exceptional quality, the Technivorm Moccamaster represents the gold standard in home brewing.

Key Features:

• Handmade in the Netherlands
• Precise temperature control (195°F-205°F)
• Copper heating element for optimal extraction
• 5-year warranty
• SCA certified brewing excellence

The Moccamaster's attention to brewing science produces exceptional coffee that rivals specialty coffee shops, justifying its premium price for those who truly appreciate perfect coffee.

Breville Barista Touch Impress

For those who enjoy espresso-based drinks, the Breville Barista Touch Impress offers an exceptional home experience according to multiple expert reviews.

Key Features:

• Innovative "Impress" puck system for optimal extraction
• Bright touchscreen interface
• Automatic milk texturizing system
• Guided brewing process ideal for beginners
• Can make everything from espresso to lattes

While not specifically tested by Consumer Reports, this premium machine has received accolades from multiple expert sources for its ease of use and consistently excellent results.

Budget-Friendly Coffee Makers

Hamilton Beach FlexBrew

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew offers impressive versatility at a budget-friendly price point, making it an excellent value choice.

Key Features:

• Works with both K-Cups and ground coffee
• Reliable performance at a fraction of premium brands' cost
• Quick brewing time
• Simple setup and operation
• Consistently good temperature retention

Customer reviews highlight the FlexBrew's durability and consistent performance, especially compared to more expensive models that failed within a year.

Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable

A longtime trusted name in affordable coffee makers, Mr. Coffee continues to deliver reliable performance at accessible price points.

Key Features:

• Programmable brewing for morning convenience
• Simple, intuitive controls
• Reliable everyday performance
• Excellent value pricing
• Easy cleaning and maintenance

While it may lack the advanced features of premium models, the Mr. Coffee programmable brewers deliver consistent, hot coffee at a price point that's hard to beat.

Features to Look for in a Quality Coffee Maker

Brewing Performance

The most important aspect of any coffee maker is its ability to extract flavor properly from your grounds. Consumer Reports tests brew temperature and contact time—how long water stays within the sweet spot of 195°F to 205°F, which optimizes flavor extraction from the bean. This temperature range is crucial for proper extraction without burning the coffee.

Convenience Features

Modern coffee makers offer a range of features that can enhance your brewing experience:

• Programmability: Set your coffee to brew automatically at a specific time
• Brew strength settings: Customize the intensity of your coffee
• Thermal carafes: Keep coffee hot longer without a warming plate
• Self-cleaning cycles: Simplify maintenance
• Pause and serve: Pour a cup mid-brew without making a mess

Once you hit the $200 mark, you'll find coffee makers with an interactive display, programmability, adjustable brew strength, a thermal carafe, and other premium features.

Capacity Considerations

Consider how much coffee you typically drink:

• Single-serve machines: Ideal for 1-2 cup households or varied taste preferences
• 4-8 cup models: Good for small households
• 10-14 cup models: Best for families or frequent entertainers

If you drink only one or two mugs of coffee per day, a 1- or 2-cup drip model or a single-serve machine may be the right fit. But if you tend to drink more than that or you're in a household with multiple coffee drinkers, a larger automatic drip machine with a carafe might suit you better.

Reliability and Durability

A coffee maker should be a long-term kitchen investment. Consumer Reports surveys members every other year about their experiences with coffee maker brands they own, gathering feedback on more than 67,000 coffee makers purchased between 2015 and 2023. This data helps identify which brands are most likely to provide years of trouble-free service.

Cost Considerations

While premium features and build quality typically command higher prices, excellent performers exist at every price point:

• Under $50: Basic functionality with few extra features
• $50-$100: Good performance with some convenient extras
• $100-$200: Excellent performance with numerous features
• $200+: Premium experience with top-tier components and capabilities

We at Bargain Boxed always recommend focusing on the features that matter most to your coffee routine rather than paying extra for capabilities you won't use.

FAQs About Coffee Makers

How often should I clean my coffee maker?

For optimal taste and machine longevity, descale your coffee maker every 1-3 months depending on your water hardness and usage frequency. Daily parts like the carafe and filter basket should be washed after each use.

Are expensive coffee makers worth the investment?

The value depends entirely on your coffee preferences and budget. While premium machines often offer better temperature stability, extraction quality, and durability, many mid-range models perform excellently for most coffee drinkers. Focus on features that enhance your specific coffee routine.

Which is better: glass or thermal carafe?

Thermal carafes keep coffee hot longer without requiring a warming plate, which can sometimes overheat and give coffee a burnt taste. However, glass carafes allow you to see how much coffee remains and are typically easier to clean. The choice comes down to your preference and how quickly you consume a pot of coffee.

Do single-serve machines make good coffee?

According to Consumer Reports' expert taste tester, the coffee from pod machines isn't terribly high quality compared to drip brewers. However, the convenience and consistency make them popular choices, and premium pod systems like Nespresso offer significantly better flavor than basic models.

How long should a good coffee maker last?

With proper maintenance, a quality coffee maker should last 5-10 years. Budget models typically last 3-5 years, while premium machines with metal components often exceed a decade of service.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect coffee maker means balancing your brewing preferences, convenience needs, and budget. Based on Consumer Reports testing and our team's analysis, the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable CE251 offers the best overall value and performance for most households, while the Nespresso CitiZ EN267 leads the single-serve category.

For those seeking premium experiences, the Technivorm Moccamaster delivers exceptional drip coffee worth its higher price tag. Budget-conscious shoppers should consider the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew for its impressive versatility and reliability at a fraction of competitor prices.

Whatever your coffee preferences, we at Bargain Boxed are committed to helping you find quality kitchen equipment at unbeatable prices. While we keep our costs low by offering final sales without returns, we ensure every product meets our strict quality standards before it reaches your home.

Remember that the perfect coffee maker is the one that fits seamlessly into your morning routine, consistently delivering the flavor profile you enjoy at a price point that makes sense for your budget.