Coffeemakers Enable Your Choice to Go Beyond Your Imagination

How many cups do you drink?
If one cup is enough to jump-start your day, choose a one- or two-cup drip model or single-serve pod machine. If you like multiple cups, choose a bigger machine. Most large models make 10 to 12 cups.

Over how long between cups?
If you space your coffee-drinking throughout the day, consider a model with an insulated mug or carafe. Those keep coffee hot and fresh-tasting for hours.

Convenience counts
You'll want a clearly marked water reservoir so that you can see how much water you're putting in, a swing-out filter basket that's easy to use and clean, and simple, intuitive controls. Don't forget to factor in counter space.

Can't see straight in the morning?
For some people, even filling the coffee machine and turning it on is too much to handle in the a.m. If that's you, consider a unit with an automatic "on" switch.

Espresso requires a special machine
Espresso is made by a different process--forcing hot water through packed, finely ground coffee--so your regular coffeemaker won't cut it.

Automatic drip coffeemakers

Pod coffeemakers

Espresso makers

By far the most popular type, automatic-drip machines have you fill a chamber with water, load coffee into a filter basket, and flick a switch to heat the water and drip it through the filter into the pot.

A newer type of machine, these force water through a little coffee packet, called a "pod," that fits the machine's dispenser. There's no measuring and spilling of grounds.These are more expensive to buy and operate than other types

Types of espresso makers include simple manual stovetop models, steam machines (in which steam pressure pushes hot water through the ground coffee) and electric pump version.Electric pump versions can range from completely manuals.

Programmable settings

These allow you to set the time the machine starts to brew, that's helpful if you need that coffee aroma to propel you out of bed. The settings are available on most full-size models.

Thermal carafe/thermal mug

An insulated carafe not only keeps coffee hot for hours but also prevents that "burnt" taste. Some one-cup coffeemakers come with thermal mugs you can take with you.

Spare carafe

If you're accident-prone, you might want a model that comes with an extra pot or carafe. A replacement pot can cost $10 to $15 if you buy it separately; thermal carafes go for $25 to $75. If you need a spare pot in which to serve decaffeinated coffee to guests, consider buying a generic thermal carafe at a kitchen store.

Built-in grinder

These can be annoying to use and clean. The grounds tend to spill, and you might need to upend the machine to empty out the residue. If you like to buy whole beans, get a separate grinder.

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