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CNET's Top Coffee Makers

Chloe Aug 05, 2026 2026-08-05 13:10:41

While coffee is no longer just a morning necessity, it's become a lifestyle, and having the right coffee maker is essential. This brings us to CNET, the tech giant's expert advice on the best coffee makers out there.

Keurig K-Supreme Smart Brewer Programmable Single-Serve Coffee Maker with 8-Cup Water Reservoir ( Black ) | 5000367509
Keurig K-Supreme Smart Brewer Programmable Single-Serve Coffee Maker with 8-Cup Water Reservoir ( Black ) | 5000367509

With CNET, finding your perfect coffee maker isn't just about brand names, it's about finding the one that suits your brewing style, from pour-over to cold brew, and everything in between. So, let's dive into the CNET coffee maker guide and explore the brewing landscapes of today.

Cuisinart ® Coffee Center ® Stainless Steel 12-Cup Coffee Maker and Single Brewer
Cuisinart ® Coffee Center ® Stainless Steel 12-Cup Coffee Maker and Single Brewer

The Fascinating World of Coffee Makers

CNET emphasizes that the first step to the perfect cup is choosing the right appliance. Espresso machines, drip coffee makers, French press - each has its own art and science. So, let's break it down.

5-cup Manual Coffee Maker Small Drip Coffee Machine One-Touch Operation Auto Keep-Warm Coffee Perfect for Home/Office/Outside-Black.
5-cup Manual Coffee Maker Small Drip Coffee Machine One-Touch Operation Auto Keep-Warm Coffee Perfect for Home/Office/Outside-Black.

But before we do, remember, no CNET coffee maker review would be complete without highlighting the importance of coffee quality and freshness. After all, even the best coffee maker can't salvage stale beans.

French Press aka Press Pot

Bella BREW Deluxe Multi-Brew Coffee Maker
Bella BREW Deluxe Multi-Brew Coffee Maker

The French press, or press pot, is a manual brewing method that produces a rich, robust flavor. CNET lauds its durability and simplicity, with no electricity required!

To get the full CNET experience, try the Bodum Brazil French Press Coffee Maker. It's durable, stylish, and produces a full-bodied cup that's as close to freshly ground beans as you can get.

Drip Coffee Makers - The Classic

Café™ Specialty Drip Coffee Maker
Café™ Specialty Drip Coffee Maker

Drip coffee makers, the automatic heavy-hitters of the coffee world, are perfect for families and offices. CNET loves the idea of 'set it and forget it' brewing, and smart features like programmability and auto-pause.

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew coffee maker, a top pick by CNET, offers both K-cups and traditional grounds, catering to both camps. Plus, it's compact, stylish, and budget-friendly - win-win!

Exploring the New Wave of Specialty Coffee

Bodum Programmable 12-Cup Coffee Maker - Blue/ Multi
Bodum Programmable 12-Cup Coffee Maker - Blue/ Multi

With the third-wave coffee movement, pour-over and cold brew have stepped into the spotlight. Let's see what CNET has to say about these trendier brewing methods.

Remember, these methods require more patience and skill, but the difference in taste is, well, a revelation.

14-Cup PerfecTemp Coffeemaker with Over Ice, DCC-3500SS
14-Cup PerfecTemp Coffeemaker with Over Ice, DCC-3500SS
Outdoor Mini Portable Electric Espresso Maker Camping Coffee Makers
Outdoor Mini Portable Electric Espresso Maker Camping Coffee Makers
Cuisinart Coffee Center 2-in-1 12-Cup Coffeemaker in Stainless Steel
Cuisinart Coffee Center 2-in-1 12-Cup Coffeemaker in Stainless Steel
Cuisinart Coffee Center® 2-in-1 Coffee Maker with Over Ice & Thermal Carafe
Cuisinart Coffee Center® 2-in-1 Coffee Maker with Over Ice & Thermal Carafe
MAKITA ADCM501Z OUTDOOR ADVENTURE 18V LXT COFFEE MAKER
MAKITA ADCM501Z OUTDOOR ADVENTURE 18V LXT COFFEE MAKER

Pour-Over: More Than Just Style

Pour-over coffee makers, like the Hario V60, create a unique coffee experience. CNET praises the precise control over variables like water temperature and pour speed, resulting in a smoother, more flavorful cup.

However, not everyone needs such precision. For a more casual pour-over experience, consider CNET's top pick, the Kalita Wave Coffee Dripper. It's לוeнее and produces excellent coffee with less fuss than other pour-over methods.

Cold Brew - It's Not Just a Fad

Cold brew coffee, made with cold or room-temperature water, is less acidic and smoother than hot-brewed coffee. CNET loves the convenience of cold brew concentrate - brew once, enjoy all week.

CNET's top choice, the Takeya Cold Brew Coffee Maker, is user-friendly, durable, and produces a delicious, smooth cold brew with minimal effort.

So, ready to elevate your coffee game? CNET's guide to coffee makers is here to help, whether you're a pour-over perfectionist or a drip coffee faithful.