- Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew
- Hamilton Beach Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Keurig K-Mini K15 Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart 14-Cup Glass Carafe Programmable Coffeemaker
- BUNN Velocity Brew 10-Cup Home Coffee Brewer
- Hamilton Beach (49950C) Coffee Maker
- Ninja Coffee Maker for Hot/Iced/Frozen Coffee
- Nespresso Vertuo Evoluo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
- Keurig K575 Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- DeLonghi Compact Automatic Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso Machine
Finding the best coffee machine is no easy task as there are way too many to choose from.
One might have this feature you like but lack in other departments while another has the complete opposite.
This one looks great but won’t last.
Then comes the price, which will probably make most of your buying decisions.
Whatever the case may be, we completely understand and feel your pain when it comes to buying anything for that matter.
But if you’re like me, and you need your morning coffee (and sometimes your afternoon coffee on top of that), then you’ll love what I put together for you today.
Let me introduce you to the top 10 best rated coffee machines of the year as I was really excited to start this list, because honestly I’m even drinking coffee right now.
Growing up with a coffee-loving family, I’ve used a massive number of coffee machines.
I just made this cup with a Keurig machine, which is definitely going to make its way onto this list.
Although it might seem like they’re all very similar, any true coffee lover knows that all machines are not created equal.
Coffee is rarely something that you can have any way and a lot of us have some specific routine or formula for the perfect cup.
However, this post is for both daily coffee drinkers and casual coffee drinkers alike, as we’ve got an array of prices, from budget-friendly coffee machines to extreme barista coffee shop machines.
So get your coffee ready, sit back, and relax, as I show you all the best coffee machines around.
Table of Contents
1) Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew 10-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker
First on the list is the Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew Thermal Coffeemaker. I love this design because it’s simple, and not too bulky. It does exactly what you need, and nothing too extra.
One of the great features is the removable water reservoir. I don’t know about you, but it can get really tiring to constantly walk across the kitchen with the coffee pot trying to fill up the water reservoir. Instead, this coffeemaker allows you to remove the reservoir and fill it one time, replace it, and you’re all good to go.
Another great feature is the thermal carafe. This is more for those all-day coffee drinkers, or those of us who like to enjoy another cup later on without having to make a new pot. In my opinion, microwaving coffee is out of the question.
This coffee maker also comes with a water filtration system that removes most of the chemicals and minerals in your tap water for a fuller, richer tasting brew. You’d be surprised how much extra stuff is in our tap water, and how much it affects the taste of your coffee.
All in all, the Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew Thermal Coffeemaker is an excellent choice for someone who just wants to enjoy the simplicity of a good brewed pot of coffee.
There’s nothing special about it, other than the fact that you can have delicious coffee whenever you want. They also claim to have a quicker brew than most of their competitors, which is a plus for anyone in a rush.
2) Hamilton Beach Single Serve Coffee Maker
The Hamilton Beach Single Serve Coffee Maker is actually one of the most useful, practical coffeemakers on the list. You have the choice of making a 12-cup pot of coffee as well, so don’t run away from this option just yet.
The reason that this coffeemaker is so efficient is the single serve function. You can place a regular mug or a travel mug underneath the single serve side, and you’re all set. I love this function because I usually use a travel mug when I’m on the go anyways, so instead of wasting a whole pot I can just make one cup.
The single serve side is not compatible with K-cups or any other pods. It’s made specifically for ground coffee or coffee disks (which are amazing in my opinion). I just wanted to give you a heads up so you don’t buy this with a ton of K-cups. It’s almost more convenient with the coffee grounds anyways, and it’s much more environmentally friendly too.
Its digital interface makes for an easy-to-learn process that gets straight to the point. You can set the time, date, and mess around with some of the cool programming features that it has to offer. When you’re ready for coffee, turn the knob to either single serve or carafe and you’re ready to start brewing.
3) Keurig K-Mini K15 Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Keurig is without a doubt one of the most well-known coffee machine producers in the world. They shot straight to the top with the invention of the coffee pod. If you’re not sure what a coffee pod is, check them out on Amazon. Assuming that you already know (since you’re reading about coffee machines), we’ll move on to some of the unique functions they offer.
These ‘K-cup machines’, as many people call them, have very unique designs. From the lifting handles to the 7 different color options, Keurig always steers clear of the normal coffee machines. It’s nice for a change, and very useful for many on-the-go coffee drinkers like myself.
The K15 coffeemaker allows you to choose from 6 oz to 10 oz of coffee to brew. Personally, I usually go for an even 1 cup, or 8 oz. I don’t need many other amounts other than those, so I’m content with my K-cup machine.
Another great feature to almost any Keurig machine is the fact that you can use it for more than just coffee. I’ve made tea, ramen, and all kinds of other foods/drinks that just require hot water. Since the machines brew so quickly, you can have steaming hot water in seconds instead of microwaving it or boiling it on the stove for 5 minutes.
Keurig also offers a removable water reservoir for easy filling and convenient brewing. These machines are perfect for anyone in a rush, or anyone who doesn’t really care too much about the whole brewing process.
Sometimes I enjoy the routine, but mostly I like to brew my coffee and have it prepared to drink in 30 seconds. If you’re like me, then check out the Keurig K15 coffeemaker.
4) Cuisinart 14-Cup Glass Carafe Programmable Coffeemaker
Sticking within the budget-friendly range under $70, this Cuisinart coffeemaker probably has the most features and options so far in the list. There’s all kinds of digital and clickable options, so let’s dive in to this semi-advanced coffee machines.
One of the coolest features of this coffee machine is that it lets you choose if you want a regular pot or a bold pot of coffee. Sometimes a super strong cup of coffee isn’t really what you need, but occasionally you might need that pick-me-up on some of those slow mornings.
Another great feature is the self-cleaning mode. All you have to do is click “clean”, and you’re all good to go. It’s a pretty unique feature that most other coffee machines, even the more expensive ones, don’t offer.
If you’re tired of spending money on coffee filters, just used the included gold-tone coffee filter. You can fill it with your coffee grounds as usual, and just wash it under clean water for a few seconds when you’re done. I love these gold-tone filters because I don’t like all of the waste that comes with most coffee filters.
This coffeemaker also allows you to use a ‘keep warm’ feature so you can walk away for a little bit. Sometimes you get interrupted in the coffee making process, and your coffee goes cold. Again, I don’t even consider microwaving coffee so this feature is perfect in my opinion.
5) BUNN Velocity Brew 10-Cup Home Coffee Brewer
For just under $100, the BUNN Velocity Home Coffee Brewer is currently a #1 best seller on Amazon. It’s perfect for anyone with a budget under $100, whether it’s for a gift or for yourself. If you’re looking for a minimalist, simplistic coffee maker that gets the job done, then read one.
One of the biggest features that helps it lead the pack on Amazon is the 3 minute brew time. The always-hot coffee mode constantly has steaming water ready to use, which means you don’t have to wait that extra time while most coffeemakers have to heat up.
Another excellent spec of this BUNN Velocity coffeemaker is the no-drip carafe. It’s specially designed to drip the occasional coffee splashes back into the carafe. It’s very frustrating to always wipe up small coffee splashes, which a lot of other coffeemakers don’t prevent.
The multi-spray coffee drip system evenly soaks the coffee beans to allow for an even brewing. Instead of only pouring through a small portion of the coffee grounds, this coffeemaker uses as much fresh coffee grounds that it can to ensure you get the smoothest, boldest brew possible. With this coffeemaker you can brew between 4 and 10 cup, set to personal preference.
The thing I like most about this coffeemaker is probably the design. With only one switch, you don’t have to dial through all the extras to figure out what you want. This coffee machine is perfect if you just want the best blend of your favorite coffee without all the bells and whistles of other expensive machines.
6) Hamilton Beach (49950C) Coffee Maker
Unlike the other Hamilton Beach coffeemaker at #2, this one allows you to use K-Cups in it. This is a great feature for anyone who loves the simplicity of just putting in the pod, brewing the coffee, and tossing it.
For those of you who are like me and want to stay environmentally friendly, there are coffee pods that are made of mostly recycled materials. You can also just put ground coffee in the reusable single serve coffee pod and brew you cup that way.
With this coffee machine, you can choose your brew strength in a similar fashion to the precious machines on the list. Just click the ‘brew strength’ button to decide how bold you want your cup, and you’re good to go.
This coffeemaker also allows you to set the time, program when you want it to brew, and it comes with a 12 oz carafe. You also get the on-board gold-tone filter that you can reuse after you wash it.
This machine might be another one of my favorites. As I said, I occasionally like the routine of coffee making, but usually I like single-serve. With this coffeemaker, you get the best of both choices.
7) Ninja Coffee Maker for Hot/Iced/Frozen Coffee
This is where the list starts to get fun. The Ninja Coffee Maker is one of the best coffeemakers for the simple fact that you can make iced coffee with it. Don’t skip it yet, you can still make hot coffee as well. It just allows you to make iced coffee on board without watering down you brew.
I’ve tried all kinds of routes to make iced coffee. Adding regular ice seems to just water down the brew, while refrigerating it takes away some of the flavor. For some reason, nothing gets it done like the Ninja coffee maker.
This coffee machine has special ‘Auto-IQ’ technology that can sense how much water needs to be added to the blend, and when to stop. This makes it so you don’t have to constantly refill the water reservoir all the time like you might have to with some of the other models on the list.
You can choose which brew size you want, what kind of brew you want (iced, frozen, hot, bold, etc.) and you can also choose single serve or a pot. It also comes with a gold-tone filter like most of the other coffeemakers on the list, which is super convenient and easy to clean.
The uniquely designed 43 oz carafe adds to the futuristic feel of this coffeemaker that’s like no other. The Ninja coffee maker is definitely going to be a topic of discussion. It’s a great option for any coffee lover who likes to mix up their brews and temperatures every once in a while.
8) Nespresso Vertuo Evoluo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
This is where we get into the not so budget-friendly coffeemakers. Numbers 8 through 10 are more for coffee lovers. Those of us who are obsessed with the morning ‘ritual’ for lack of a better word. The Nespresso Vertuo Evoluo coffee and espresso machine is simply designed, yet futuristic in its functions.
With this coffee and espresso maker, you can use multiple options to choose what type of coffee or espresso you want. You’re given several options, which I’ll list for you below:
- Espresso (1.35 oz.)
- Double espresso (2.7 oz.)
- Gran lungo (5 oz.)
- Coffee (7.7 oz.)
- Alto (14 oz.)
Personally, I don’t have need for all of these functions. I like my coffee simple and straight to the point. However, that might all change if I had one of these machines at home. This is perfect for those of you that love the taste of coffee shop coffees and espressos without the price.
Although it might be a little bit expensive at just under $135.00, the Nespresso Vertuo Evoluo coffee and espresso machine will save you tons of money in the long run. The single serve option is meant for their specially made pods, which still come out to a tremendously smaller amount than buying from coffee shops everyday.
9) Keurig K575 Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
The Keurig K575 is a step above most coffee machines, which should justify the price point of $179.99 to most coffee lovers. If you love the work that Keurig has done in your current coffeemaker, you should check out the massive steps they’ve taken to improve on of their top models.
This model from Keurig has a bunch of more customizing features than previous models. You can select a brew size from 4 oz to 12 oz, which gives you a much bigger range than most other coffee makers on the market. There’s also a digital touch screen, which is pretty handy as well.
Another huge advancement that Keurig implemented in the K575 is the thermal carafe. You can brew massive carafes of coffee and store it for future use. Use this thermal carafe with their special K-Cup carafe pods for optimum flavor and preservation.
There’s also a couple filters that come with this coffee machine to make sure you always have clean water. Installing one of these filters takes minutes and lasts for months, which is a killer trade off.
Keurig also added one of the biggest water reservoirs in coffee machine history with the 80 oz water reservoir. With this much water, you can brew up to 20 cups of 4 oz servings or 10 cups with the normal 1 cup (8 oz) servings. This massive water system is probably my favorite part about it, since my current Keurig machine has to be refilled once every 4 cups or so.
10) DeLonghi Compact Automatic Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso Machine
If you’ve made it this far without a choice, or you feel like the others haven’t had everything you wanted, then I’ve found the best coffee machine that you can have. It comes with a massive price tag of just under $699.99, but it’s a machine that you’ll most likely never have to replace.
If you’re a true coffee lover who wants the coffee shop experience at home, then the DeLonghi Compact Automatic Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso Machine is for you.
So what makes this coffeemaker worth the price? Well, there’s a manual froth tool for your blended drinks, a dual coffee pump to brew 2 cups at once, and the always-hot feature allows you to brew multiple times, back to back. It’s also one of the most energy-efficient coffee machines on the market.
One of the coolest features on this coffee machine is the integrated burr grinder. All you have to do is place your coffee beans in the burr grinder side, and it automatically grinds your coffee beans for an always-fresh brew. If you enjoy the traditional way of pre-ground beans, there’s a side for that as well.
With plenty of different drink options and convenient features like the drip tray and extra large water reservoir, the Delonghi Compact Automatic coffeemaker truly is the top of the line brewing machine around.
How to Buy the Right Coffee Machine For YOU
As a coffee drinker myself, I can’t say that I am your go-to for coffee advice but I can tell you the very basics of what the different coffee machines can do for you as I have tried them all.
I am also at my favorite coffee shop at the moment and this is the same exact place that taught me everything I know about picking the best coffee machine.
At the very least, let me help you with the different types of coffee machines so that you can see what will work best for you.
Checkout this vid from The Very Guide as they have some great tips as well.
Dripped Coffee Machines (Filtered)
From what I’ve known as a kid, the dripped coffee machine was all there was.
At least that’s what I thought since my parents were the only real adults that I saw.
Then I grow up, walk into a coffee shop and there’s steam coming from everywhere.
Boy have things changed.
However, dripped coffee machines still exist and are the preferred coffee machine for most regardless of what different styles have come about.
These coffee machines take regular old coffee through the top and these are the same ones you would usually find at hotels and your grandparent’s house.
These require you to purchase actual coffee and takes the longest to “brew”.
Espresso Machines
Very common these days and is what you will most likely see at coffee shops.
This is also that same machine that throws out all the steam that makes that loud sound at your local coffee shop.
You can create espresso shots but this is also the same main ingredient for machiattos, capuccinos, and lattes.
This is my most favorite way to make coffee and with machines like the Ninja Coffe Bar, you can actually have your coffee any way you want it.
Capsule Coffee Machines
These machines started taking off a couple of years ago and this is what got Keurig its name.
They use pre packed “capsules” that hold everything you need in a coffee and the machine does the rest.
This is the easiest coffee machine to use but it doesn’t leave you space to be creative as it is pretty much instant coffee that you are getting.
I’m not a fan of this specific machine as I like to taste coffee in my coffee but this is great for those of you who are not that into coffee and need something that you can grab real fast and head out the door without having to worry about leaving a your coffee maker on.
Final Thoughts
Brewing the right cup of coffee in the morning can be the difference between an amazing, freshly energized day or a dreary, slow and fatigued day. You know that 12:00 pm feeling of regretting not having that morning cup of coffee? It’s time to put those days behind you.
Coffee has been a part of our lives for centuries, and it will always be one of the healthiest, most delicious and naturally energizing ways to start our day. Finding the right machine for your coffee needs can be very exciting. Choosing what works for you shouldn’t take hours of searching on the internet, searching hundreds of reviews and writing pros and cons lists.
I wanted to compile this ultimate coffee machines list for you today so that you can pick the best choice for what you think is the perfect way to start your day. Personally, I’ll probably always stick with Keurig machines.
I love the simplicity of using the K-Cups. However, I use a reusable K-Cup that uses any fresh coffee grounds that you have. This method is more environmentally friendly and costs around $10.00 on Amazon.
When choosing your coffee machine, it’s important to get everything you need in it. Don’t settle just because it’s cheaper, or has a shorter shipping time. Get what you think is best. When it comes down to it, any of these machines on the list will still end up being cheaper after a year of coffee shop coffee. Not to mention that you brewed it in the comfort of your own home, and skipped the horrendously long lines.
If you’re into simplicity and want my personal recommendation, get the Keurig K15. You get all the nice features, durability, and longevity of all Keurig machines paired with the quick brewing process. You’ll never have to wait longer than 1 minute for your coffee to be ready. I’m always on the move, so this feature is essential.
If you’re a coffee connoisseur and you’re looking for the most budget-friendly yet fancy coffeemaker, check out the Ninja Coffee Maker. You can enjoy your coffee hot, iced, or frozen. It’s also an excellent choice for having friends and family over, since everyone can have the right brew for them.
Whatever you choose, make sure you pick the one that you feel will suit your needs best.
