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What To Look For When Buying A Coffee Maker
By Grant Eckert
For many people, the day doesn't officially start until that first pot is brewing. has become a mainstay of their morning routine. provides the caffeine that some people need to wake up in the morning or to get that extra boost as the day goes on, and research has shown that the antioxidants in may have a variety of health benefits as well. That said, not all cups of are created equal; choosing the right maker can make all the difference between an outstanding cup and one that's just alright.
So how do you know that you're getting the maker that will best meet your needs and serve up the of your dreams? While any maker may be capable of making a good cup of coffee, there are some features that you can look for to help your brew right, stay fresh, and taste delicious.
Essential Features
Digital Timer - Though it's reached the point that it's almost difficult to find a maker without some sort of digital timer, you should make sure that the maker you choose comes equipped with a timer that features an automatic start function. Most people don't make full use of this feature, but by preparing the maker the night before you can actually save time in the mornings by having your start brewing just before you wake up.
Construction - Stop and take a look at the model of maker that you're considering buying. See how well it's constructed, how easy it is to use, and whether the pot is reinforced or is simply glass. Reinforced pots act like a thermos, keeping your hot and fresh for much longer.
Pause and Serve - This is one of the most useful features that your maker can have if you need a pot of coffee. Instead of having to wait for the pot to finish brewing or trying to swap out your cup and the pot (and spilling everywhere), the act of removing the pot closes a valve on the maker and lets you pour yourself a cup before resuming your brew.
Optional but Useful Features
Water Filter - An optional feature that's becoming more common in makers, having an in-line water filter can really improve the taste of your by making sure that there aren't any impurities in the water you brew with. Keep in mind that this adds a little bit of extra maintenance to your maker as well… you'll need to change the filters regularly.
Variable Temperature - Even
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the cheapest maker heats water up enough to brew with, but if you have a variable temperature gauge you can actually tweak your brewing temperature to suit your tastes. This feature isn't essential, however, so if there's a significant price difference between two makers with this as the only difference, don't feel bad if you choose the one without.
Locking Lids - A useful feature that generally comes with makers that use reinforced pots; a locking lid enables you to screw a lid directly onto the pot which makes it easy to take to a neighbors or other destination. Locking lids are often designed so that you can't have both a basket in and a lid on; this way you won't accidentally start brewing when the pot is closed.
Other Considerations
Drip Type - Most makers that you'll buy will be of the automatic drip variety… this way you don't have to do anything except fill the basket, pour in water, and start the brewing cycle. Be aware that other types of makers do exist, though, including manual drip, percolators, and press pots.
Capacity - Sometimes you might only want a little coffee, and sometimes you might want a lot. Stop to think about exactly how much you're likely to need, and make sure that the maker that you choose can handle that amount. If you drink a lot of coffee, you don't want a small maker. Look for makers that feature a variable capacity, so that you can make as much or as little as you need.
Filter Type - When it comes to filters, there are 3 options that you should consider. You can find makers that use the standard paper filters, metal permanent filters, and even "pods" which are pre-packaged discs complete with their own filter. Metal filters generally produce a better taste and are compatible with makers that use paper filters, while pods require that the maker is specifically designed for them.
Grinder - Fresh-ground tastes better, and some makers have a grinder built in. However, you can usually save some money by buying a separate grinder, so it's a good idea to explore that option as well. About Author:
Grant Eckert is a freelance writer who writes about topics pertaining to the food and beverage industry such as Coffee | Beans
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