My Exhaustive Guide to the Best Coffee Makers I’ve Ever Reviewed

Here’s the rewritten version in the first-person perspective:

My Exhaustive Guide to the Best Coffee Makers I’ve Ever Reviewed

First question: Are you team automatic or team manual?

I take my coffee very seriously. Over the years, I’ve tested and reviewed close to 100 coffee machines, exploring various styles, sizes, and price points to find the best coffee makers out there. From high-tech smart espresso makers to the simplest drip machines that coffee lovers have been using for generations, I’ve tried them all.

The Best Coffee Makers

Here are some of my top picks:

Best Drip Coffee Maker: Fellow Aiden – $365

Best Espresso Machine: Lelit Mara X – $1,700

Best Budget Espresso Machine: Breville Bambino Plus – $499

Best French Press: Espro P7 – $120

Best Cold-Brew Coffee Maker: Oxo Cold Brew Coffee Maker – $52

Best Pod Coffee Maker: Nespresso VertuoPlus – $129

I’ve compiled this list like a “greatest hits” album from my reviews. Below, you’ll find the winners from various categories, along with some helpful insights into different types of coffee makers. While I can’t tell you what kind of coffee you should drink, how much effort you’re willing to put into making it, or how much space you have for a coffee machine, I can definitely help you pick the perfect one for your routine.

Whether you’re after a no-fuss drip coffee machine, a sophisticated pour-over setup, or an easy-to-use espresso maker, keep reading for my top recommendations.

Is It Worth Buying an Expensive Coffee Maker?

What counts as “expensive” depends on the person. But here’s my advice: avoid going for cheap coffee makers. While I’ve tested a solid drip coffee maker for about $100, most espresso machines under $300 just didn’t deliver. Higher-end coffee makers tend to brew better coffee because they excel at controlling crucial factors like water temperature, pressure, and brewing time. For espresso enthusiasts, spending a bit more can make a huge difference in flavor and overall quality.

Drip Coffee Makers

For sheer convenience, it’s hard to beat a drip coffee machine. Fill the water tank, add coffee grounds to the basket, press a button, and walk away. From affordable models to premium ones by brands like Technivorm and Oxo, I’ve tested them all. While cheap ones get the job done, they rarely produce the best-tasting coffee.

My Top Pick: Fellow Aiden

Fellow’s first automatic drip coffee maker captures everything I love about making pour-over coffee and automates the process. It’s endlessly customizable, letting you adjust water temperature, bloom time, and water pulses for exceptional flavor. Plus, it’s stunning to look at and has thoughtful design features like a removable water tank and drip-free filter basket. It’s pricey, but worth it if you want top-notch drip coffee.

Espresso Machines

Buying an espresso machine is more complex because prices, sizes, and features vary so much. But one thing is clear: you get what you pay for. Pricier machines tend to have better temperature control, pressure, and steam wands.

Best Espresso Machine: Lelit Mara X

The Mara X is hands down the best espresso machine I’ve tested. Its shots are rich, full-bodied, and perfectly balanced. This prosumer machine is beautifully designed, with wood accents and features like a heat exchanger for simultaneous brewing and steaming. It does take some time to heat up (about 18 minutes), but the results are well worth the wait.

Best Budget Espresso Machine: Breville Bambino Plus

For beginners, the Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent choice. It’s compact, heats up in seconds, and has an automatic milk frother that delivers perfect cappuccinos and lattes.

Single-Serve Coffee Makers

When I first tested pod coffee makers, I didn’t have high expectations. But I found a few that deliver both convenience and decent flavor.

Best Pod Coffee Maker: Nespresso VertuoPlus

This machine is a standout for its ability to brew everything from espresso shots to 8 oz. cups at the touch of a button. It uses barcodes on the pods to adjust brew settings automatically, ensuring consistent results every time.

No matter your coffee preferences, there’s a machine out there that’s perfect for you. Whether you’re diving into espresso artistry or just want a quick cup of joe, I hope my guide helps you find your ideal coffee maker!