Best Coffee Makers 2020 – Buyer’s Guide and Reviews

Oh, we know why you’re here. You’re looking to invest in something 7 out of 10 people can’t jump-start their morning without.

Let’s face it: coffee is a major deal.  It is one of the top global agricultural exports with roughly 1.4 billion cups poured each and everyday.  As the coffee fascination continues to grow around the globe, no form of its consumption will ever be as popular as the traditional brewed method.

It’s pretty clear…choosing to drink coffee is easy.  Choosing how to drink it is the hard part.

That’s where we come in.

Whether your next coffee machine is for yourself, someone else, or the office – whatever your situation may be, our experts are here to help you select the best available options.

10 Best Coffee Makers Reviewed 2020

In determining the top 10, we went through some pretty rigorous testing.

Each coffee maker has undergone the test of making a batch of coffee (duh!), up to its full range potential. If the coffee maker was equipped to make other beverages, such as espressos, hot chocolate, teas, lemonades, fruit infusions, almond milk, etc., then accordingly, we decided to test them under those conditions.  The coffee makers were also marked down for any and all deficiencies, even if they were additional functionalities and not just the core ones.

Here are the factors we’ve considered in our review process:

• Coffee Making Ability.  A pretty obvious one.  This includes the taste of the coffee, how fast the coffee was made, variations in brew strength and ease of use.
• Durability.  A coffee maker isn’t good if it doesn’t last long or can’t brew 100’s, if not 1000’s of cups of coffee.
• Pricing.  Does the price justify the product?  Extra points if the coffee maker offers exceptional value!
• Maintenance.  Aspects like how straightforward it is to clean the machine and perform upkeep, are factored here.
• Versatility.  Is the coffee maker a one trick pony?  Can it brew other hot beverages like hot chocolate or tea?  Whilst many users would be happy just to brew a good cup of joe, having other options, (whilst not as important) is still nice to have.
• Customer Feedback.  Yes, we’ve tested these coffee makers extensively but due to our limited time we can’t always be sure of all the negatives that can arise from long-term ownership.  Therefore; we also need to rely on customer feedback.  Our policy is simple:  “if many customers have reported the same problem, then chances are it is a problem.”

And now, without further delay, we introduce to you the ten best coffee makers available in 2020:

10.  VonShef Programmable Digital Coffee Maker –  Best on a Budget

The Good:  A classic design, with a digital twist.

Sometimes we just want the basics, and quite honestly this machine delivers that and a whole lot more.  It possesses all you truly need in a coffee machine, at an economical price. 

We were pleasantly surprised by how good the coffee tasted, and clearly we underestimated this unit. With a large 12-cup capacity, it could be for your kitchen, home office, or small business office.

Program it, and wake up to the incense of wakey juice, activating your inner get up and go-getter. The hot plate keeps it steamy and piping until you’re ready to pour.

It’s also got a nifty auto shut-off feature which  comes in handy when you’re running late to work and forgot to turn the machine off. Worry-free days here we come!

We feel it is the best coffee maker under 50 bucks, and you get a lot more than what you pay for.

All this for how much?! Pinch me. Because this machine can run with the best of them, and is therefore a top ten member of this list.

The Bad:  Of course with plastic or acrylic machines, you run the risk of failure sooner, rather than later.

Its classic design means it’s also more bulkier than its counterparts, and may require rearranging some of the items on your counter-top in order to find some space for it to call home.

Getting past the size and plastic/acrylic build, may take some getting used to but in the end, it will be worth the effort, your time and your investment.

9.  Secura French Press – Best for Stainless Steel Kitchens

The Good:  The number nine spot goes to a French press that simply could not be ignored.  Secura allows you to be your own favorite bistro barista with their manual version of the coffee maker.

Amazon customers agree (as well as the Shopper Bytes’ team), this is a must-have item and for good reason – it’s an Amazon Choice with over 5000 review ratings that average close to 5 stars.

Popular and handsome, this coffee maker is an excellent addition to compliment an all stainless steel kitchen and there’s more than meets the eye.  The stainless steel double-wall vacuum insulation is built to lock in the bold flavors and fragrances.

We have to admit, the output of a French press is undeniable and we’re not the only ones to think this.  For some of us, it was a first tasting go-round with drinking pressed coffee and we can honestly say, that we get it.  Personally, after having experienced coffee from a drip all my life, I had no idea what I had been missing.  Using the Secura was an enlightening experience and makes converting to the pressed method an easy choice.

The Bad:  Although this is a high quality French press, we feel that its stainless steel design works for, and against it. Go figure.

If seeing what’s going on inside matters very little to you, then by all means have at it. Really, it’s a minor deduction but a consequence nonetheless.

One more thing:  If you have large hands, removing the filter may pose a bit of a challenge.

8.  Bunn VPR-2GD Commercial Coffee Brewer – Best for Commercial Use

The Good:  No office is complete, until its got a Bunn in it.  This oldie but goodie is found in offices everywhere because it is manufactured with the primary objective of keeping the “liquid energy” flowing constantly.

Moving locations, or undergoing an office renovation? Remain calm: this commercial unit is portable, and requires no plumbing! Sold with two 12-cup glass decanters for caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee drinking, it has a splash guard funnel that secures the sprayer and grounds safely inside.

No muss, no fuss.

If you are the company’s supplies buyer slash “office hero,” this will definitely get you extra brownie points. Add a quantity of 1 for every floor or department, checkout and upon delivery, walk up to every employee, look them directly in the eyes, smile and tell them, “you’re welcome.” They’ll soon discover why.

The Bad:  When compiling these lists, we work with the effort to be inclusive of every type of buyer, operating within a wide budget range. We are well aware that some of you are here because you may have been tasked with buying a unit for the office. However, since this unit is mostly limited to commercial buyers only, we must divulge this as a strike against it.

Hopefully, the last to leave the office isn’t so out of it, that they forget to check it on their way out, right? There is nothing more disturbing than the smell of a burnt coffee pot in the morning. Or say, a fire department being called out to your office in the middle of the night. Yikes!

7.  Chemex Classic Series Coffee Maker – Best Pour Over Coffee Maker

The Good:  For those of you who enjoy the experience of the hands-on, pour-over method, we haven’t forgotten about you.

In fact, we’ve had our share in testing out the best of the pour-over coffee makers, and we are confident that we have selected, wait for it—the cream of the crop.

An intentional pun you saw coming a mile away, I’m sure.

Not only does it make excellent tasting coffee, this item would be the go-to creative piece to have on stand-by when you’re entertaining guests. It would be perfect for special occasions and events — the deluxe moments when a regular coffee pot or carafe doesn’t quite fit the motif.

The Bad:  We understand that handling glass is literally a fragile situation. Mishandling Chemex products could result in undesirable consequences that can be hazardous.

Cleaning them can prove to be a challenge, especially if you are known for having butterfingers. It would only be a matter of time before the inevitable occurs. That being said, its fragile nature will have to be counted as a minus, unfortunately. Handle with care.

6.  Delonghi Combination Espresso and Drip Coffee Maker – Perfect for the Coffee Aficionado

The Good:  With the coffee connoisseur in mind, we discovered and tested this 3-in-1 espresso, coffee, and cappuccino system, and we were thoroughly impressed.

We pushed it to the limits. Having sampled all this combo machine has to offer, putting its patented Flavor Savor Brewing and swivel jet frother to work.

For most people (myself included) this product might be a little out of your league.  With so many features, you might find yourself a little overwhelmed.  But that’s a good thing – you get more for your money, am I right?

However, if you’re a coffee aficionado, your search for that perfect coffee machine could well stop here.  This is high-caliber machinery that can pretty much do it all.  Being at the helm of such a machine is a fun experience, to say the least.

It is a crowd-pleaser that will undoubtedly impress friends, family and guests. Show off your latte artistry, and give them reason to call your home, “the place to be.” Had an extra long night of charades? Possibly, maybe, sort of overdone it on “Netflix and chill” binge-watching? Well, no need for next AM coffee runs with this baby.  It’s sure to get the job done!

How much do we love the pause and serve function? Tons. Who doesn’t want to sneak a quick cup without worrying about the messy clean-up? Both thumbs are pointed toward this gal.

The Bad:  As attractive as this 3-in-1 is, the amount of plastic used in its design is reason for concern with regards to the unit’s lifespan because it has a warming feature. The auto shut-off occurs after 2 hours, which is awesome, but over time could be problematic for acrylics/plastics.

But don’t fret, Amazon offers an added 3 and 4-year protection plan option, for a nominal fee.

5.  Hamilton Beach 46310 Coffee Maker – Best Deal

The Good:  If you are looking for an initiating unit that is easy to use, and makes delicious Joe, this would be the one.

It has bold and regular strength options, brewing up to 12 cups at a time. A full pot for family, or a single brew for you. This model can do the trick.

Hamilton Beach is known for creating some of the best tasting coffee makers.

They’ve discovered what the coffee making experience should be and they continue to improve on it by making great products, that supply more options. For instance, you can choose to brew up to 4 cups in a single serving. In a rush and forget to turn it off? No worries. This unit comes with a 2-hour automatic shut-off feature, to prevent mishaps.

The Bad:  The one glaring issue with this coffee maker is sort of a big deal. Although it performed well for us, its mostly plastic design will prove to be problematic over time. If you intend to drink coffee all day everyday, then you might want to consider something a little more durable.

We believe that the longer the time span on the manufacturer’s warranty, speaks to the quality of the product. A limited 1-year warranty doesn’t really say much about Hamilton Beach’s faith in this model. That’s a strike.

4.  Kitchen Supreme French Press – Best Tasting and French Press Coffee Maker

The Good:  “Can we talk!?” About how awesome this French press is!

We were simply in  awe of its craftsmanship, and didn’t want to break it in.

There’s a reason the Kitchen Supreme French Press is a five-star, best seller on Amazon, and the proof is in the java. You’ll also understand why people choose the French press method of preparing coffee, once you’ve experienced the superior quality this product has to offer.

How about a side of 5-year manufacturer’s warranty to go along with that order of gourmet coffee? I think you’d like that a lot. It’s today’s special and it will all wash down easily. Enjoy!

The Bad:  We had a really hard time finding anything wrong with this one, but very rarely do we find products without flaws.

This may seem like we’re nitpicking, but we enjoyed the coffee so much, we would have  liked to have had more. Although most presses come in this standard size, we know that some are available in a larger, 50-ounce size, so unfortunately it will serve as one of its cons. The other, is it isn’t dishwasher safe.

3.  Keurig K55/K-Classic Coffee Maker – Fastest and Hottest Coffee Maker

The Good:  Love K-cups? Meet the maker that started it all. All hail the Keurig K55! The first of its breed.

A simplified way to make flavorful coffee, in a single-serving. With the touch of a button, one can literally customize their coffee options, without hassle, or clean-up. Its ingenious design and purpose pioneered a new way to brew; forever changing the way we do bean juice.

It’s no wonder why the K55 Classic is a best seller.

If we get a bit more specy, you get a 48 0z. water reservoir that can make up to 6 cups.  This of course depends on the cup size which can be 6, 8 or 10 oz.  This machine churns out single-servings in less than 40 seconds.  It doesn’t get any easier than popping in a pod, and pressing a button.

Oh, forgot to turn off the machine after heading to bed?  Rest easy, it has an auto-off feature that kicks in after 2 hours.

The Bad:  With this being a Keurig unit, it comes with many pluses, if you are big on flavor options and single-servings. However, it puts major limitations on its capabilities.

During testing we had a lot of unexpected staff who wanted to try the K55’s coffee, so refilling the reservoir occurred a little more often than we would have liked.

Also, if you’re accustomed to having your morning coffee programmed to brew automatically, you would miss it a lot if you bought this model. The best you could do with this unit, is already have a pod in the machine waiting—still, that might not be such a good idea either, unless you’re a single person household.

2.  Ninja Coffee Bar Brewer System CF091 – Amazon’s Choice

The Good:  The Ninja brand pulled out all the stops with the Ninja Coffee Bar Brewer System.

We’re all too familiar with Ninja products, and the quality of this brewing system is in line with all of their other offerings. The hot drinks it made were indeed coffee bar quality, and they tasted scrumptious!

The CF091 unit comes with a measuring scoop, glass carafe, a book of 20 recipes, and a warming plate. Make your house the “Central Perk” coffeehouse your friends go to for conversation and relaxation. Wink.

The Bad:  Under testing conditions, the Ninja Brewing System performed like gangbusters and the output was highly satisfactory. Unfortunately, we don’t hold on to these units long enough to validate the claims made in the critical reviews by verified customers.

Although they may or may not be valid complaints, we felt they warranted being addressed.

1.  Breville BES870XL Barista Express –  Best Overall and Drip Coffee Maker

The Good:  The Barista Express is for next-level coffee drinkers and coffee makers.

You could literally run your own little cafe bistro with this puppy.

At first glance, you can already see your money at work and the old cliché, “you get what you pay for,” registers as a true statement.

The highest of caliber in coffee making machinery, these are made only for those of us who are serious about our high-octane.

You see, we don’t give the top spot to just any old gizmo, it has to have undeniable qualities like an adjustable steam wand, or a digital temperature control which maintains degree levels even as the coffee is being extracted.

You say you want to be the Next Top Instagram Latte Artist? Here’s your chance!  Invest in your future because with the Breville BES870XL, your future could be looking mighty bright—so bright, you’ll have to wear shades.

The Bad:  Cue the violin, please. Try finding problems with the best of the best, and you will discover the true meaning of “nitpicking.”

But, for the sake of reviewing objectively, it could be argued that the price-point may be above what the average person is actually willing to pay for a coffee maker—and you would win that argument every time. It is a specialty item, used for making specialty drinks, therefore limiting its appeal to a specific user-demographic.

Weighing in at a hefty 25 pounds, it is indeed the heaviest coffee maker we had encountered during the testing stages. If you’ve never had experience with a machine of this magnitude, using it for the first time could prove to be very challenging, if not dangerous.

Coffee Makers Buyers Guide

Coffee drinking has developed into a subculture that socially defines an entire generation in the new millennium. In fact, go to Instagram or Pinterest and try not to run into the oeuvre of a skillful latte artist—not an easy task.

Some people won’t even start a conversation until they’ve had their fix of “go juice.” As frightening as that may seem, it is acceptable behavior that everyone tends to overlook because, we get it. So in response, what do we do? We make “darn sure tootin’” that the coffee is ready for those of us who need it. Otherwise, the day won’t go very well for all parties involved, will it?

Of course, there are levels to this coffee fanaticism.

• There’s your casual coffee drinker, who probably partakes after a long night of, well, anything other than sleeping. You could literally serve them anything, and they wouldn’t know or care about the difference.
• Then, you have your novice or beginner drinker; someone who just experienced a life-changing cup of brew, and has a “where have you been all of my life!?” revelation. They are looking to learn all they can about the coffee culture, with a long way to go before developing a refined taste.
• Last but not least, we have our coffee connoisseur. The expert of all things C8H10N4O2 (the caffeine molecule, and yes count this one). A proud snob who will not hesitate to give you an honest review on your coffee making skills, so you’d better know your stuff before even thinking about sitting a cup down in front of this drinking type!

Each of these types are at a certain level of expertise, requiring a certain starting point for do-it-yourself coffee making.

The brewing process is generally done using three types of techniques: drip, pour-over and pressed. In order to understand your shopping needs, you need to consider these techniques and their output when choosing the right coffee maker.

The pour-over and French press methods are flavor-enhancing, space-savers, that require a little more of a physical effort. Water temperatures must be monitored, and they require handling the water while in high temperatures.

While the drip style is fully-automated, the flavor output can be unreliable. Even the very best drip coffee makers can suffer a defect from time to time. Improper care and upkeep of a machine can also effect its overall function, including the outcome of the brew.

Each of the above techniques will yield different results. That’s also taking into account whether you prefer fresh ground beans that you can grind yourself, or if you prefer to buy it already ground for you.

Then, you must consider your preferred strength. Whether you prefer light, medium light, medium, medium dark, dark or very dark roast. Knowing what you want out of your coffee experience, will help to better determine which unit is best for you.

A Coffee Drinkers’ Handy Summary

Things to look out for…

Whilst it may be hard for some of us to consider the long term prospects of a particular appliance, it’s always a good idea to apply this thinking to your next cofee maker.

Take a step back and think about your needs.  If you’re a heavy coffee drinker, more than likely a $20 coffee maker isn’t going to cut it.

Cheaper isn’t always better. 

Having said that, there are coffee makers out there which will last a long time and be within your budget.  We’ve done the hard work for you to help you find these hidden gems.

Another thing to look out for:  make sure you read the usage and maintenance guidelines!

We came across so many customers who were very satisfied with their purchase selections at first, but came back (6 to 12 months later on average) with an updated review. There were at least a half dozen who discovered that after cleaning their purchase thoroughly (unknowingly using harsh cleansers), their coffee maker pretty much fell apart.

If you figure in the cost of the unit, shipping, and then add in the cost of the new replacement unit, along with its shipping—assuming your warranty on the first unit has run out, you end up forking out of a small fortune.

Lastly, before making a purchase, there are questions you need to ask yourself. Attractive and shiny are nice-to-haves, most definitely, but even when buying a coffee maker, there is a lot to take into account.

• Can it fit onto your counter space? Are you sure?
• How about underneath your cabinetry?
• Is the cord long enough?
• Is it equipped to prepare your favorite brand of coffee?
• Does it have the features you require?

Sure, you could throw money at whatever looks great but, without looking under the proverbial hood, you run the risk of wasting your hard-earned cash.

Look What I Can Do!

During our research, we found (unsurprisingly) that coffee makers don’t just make coffee anymore. They can wake you up in the morning, have coffee ready whenever you want it, they make espressos, hot chocolates, teas, lemonades, almond milk, cashew milk—they can do almost everything, but sing and dance. But, let’s stay tuned. Before long, you’ll be able to turn it off and on via Bluetooth Technology, and play your favorite songs too!

Below are coffee maker features you may or may not be aware of, that might be helpful to you when the time comes to make your selection. Consider the wants and needs of your household to establish the minimum functionality you would require of your machine, then work your way up.

Coffee Maker Features

Safety Check