Jennifer Aniston has often spoken about her morning ritual, which involves sipping on a good cup of coffee. Of course, Jen throws some collagen and vitamins in, too.

The Friends actress is no stranger to making coffee in front of the camera, as her long-running character Rachel Green poured drinks at their local Central Perk for the first few seasons of the show and at home in real life, she's loving the Terra Keffe Super Automatic Coffee Machine, as seen on her Instagram page.

In it, Jen is seen gleefully using the machine, and all the gear a wannabe barista could ever dream of. We've delved into her exact coffee machine's features, which could arguably be one of the best bean to cup espresso machines, and have tracked down alternatives to suit all budgets.

Jennifer Aniston's coffee machine 

The actress has opted for a sleek, black Terra Keffe coffee machine that has a futuristic feel to it, which elevates her modern kitchen with accents of black against the natural wood. The TK-01 Super Automatic Coffee Machine offers a bean to cup experience with the push of a button.

For the traditionalists, why not try out a retro style machine that still boasts all the bells and whistles of the chic contemporary ones too such as the Swan Nordic Espresso Machine or the Smeg Retro Style Coffee Machine. 

Smeg also have a bean to cup machine with a built in milk frother too, to recreate more of Jen’s coffee shop at home experience. 

If the morning coffee is a family affair then a Gevi filter coffee pot might be the best option, as it stays hot and retails for under $30. Another affordable option that can transform your favourite coffee grounds into brilliant brews is the Ninja Speciality Coffee Maker, that even creates the summer staple, an iced coffee. 

Another way to elevate the everyday coffee experience is by investing in a milk frother, similar to Jen. Her Nespresso Aeroccino 3 is a popular choice for creating foam, froth or hot milk by one simple touch of a button. 

Another alternative is to invest in a small hand held frother to manually spruce up your coffees, matches and hot chocolates by adding in some extra foam and froth to the regular texture. For under $10, the Zulay Kitchen Frother is a handy choice if you’re looking for speed and ease on a budget. 

Want to see more of celebrities favorite kitchen appliances? Look no further than our dive into Reese Witherspoon’s Smeg appliances, Jennifer Garner’s cool KitchenAid espresso maker and of course, those all important dupes too. 

If you're deciding between a coffee maker and a French press, you're in luck. We've got all the details on these two types of coffee-making devices. 

We asked coffee experts and pro baristas about the features and key differences between the two. See everything you need to know about making coffee in a French press and a coffee maker.

We also included some of our recommendations for the best coffee makers once you decide which is right for you.

Coffee maker vs French press

From small coffee makers to pod coffee makers, there's a lot to choose from on the market. If you're new to the world of coffee, you may be wondering what the difference is between a coffee maker and a French press. 

We got the low-down on all the pros and cons of each device and which one may be right for you. Baristas and coffee pros share everything you need to know to start brewing your perfect drink at home. Say goodbye to coffee shops!

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Brewing method

One of the first things to know before buying a coffee maker is which brewing method you would like to utilize day-to-day. A coffee maker is an electronic device that brews coffee automatically, while a French press is a pitcher, typically made of glass, that you use to brew coffee manually. 

"Most coffee makers use a drip brew system, in which hot water (typically around 195°F to 205°F) drips over coffee grounds held in a paper or metal filter, extracting the coffee’s flavors, oils, and essences as it passes through to a pot below," says Kayla Stavridis, a former barista and the current head of marketing at baristahq.com.

If you're looking for something easy to use, a coffee maker may be your best bet. "They are convenient and user-friendly, especially for brewing multiple cups at once (up to 12 cups, depending on the model); programmable models can be set to brew coffee automatically at a specific time," says Kayla. If you're looking for a smooth and mellow cup of drip coffee, consider a coffee maker like the Nespresso Vertuo Plus (available on Amazon) which just so happens to be Kim Kardashian's favorite coffee maker. Or check out the Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine which is capable of a wide variety of drinks.

Meanwhile, using a French press is a manual process. "Also known as a press pot or plunger pot, the French press brews coffee by steeping coffee grounds in hot water (about 200°F) before pressing them to the bottom of the pot with a metal or plastic plunger after about four minutes of steeping," says Kayla.

While it may be a bit more work, a French press allows for a custom blend if you prefer more control over the strength of the final product. "French presses offer superior flavor extraction as the coffee oils remain in the brew, creating a richer, fuller flavor; it also allows for control over the strength of the coffee," says Kayla. You can snag this BAYKA French press from Amazon, for a solid option as it has over 14,000 ratings and 4.5 stars.

Taste

The taste of the coffee can differ depending on the water-to-coffee ratio you use in each device. "The 'best' coffee depends on personal preference. A French press generally produces a richer, more robust flavor, appreciated by those who like a strong cup of coffee. In contrast, a coffee maker might appeal more to those who prefer a cleaner, smoother cup," says Kayla. 

It may depend on the model you get but typically when using a coffee maker, the functions are pretty simple and it makes a standard cup of coffee. "Both options make great coffee, and it really comes down to personal preference. I have found that French press coffee tends to have a richer dark flavor than a standard coffee maker. Since a coffee maker uses the same settings every time, the flavor tends to be more consistent. The French press is more manual, so the flavor varies from day to day," says Kelsey Patterson, a food blogger for Sigsbee Street.

Size

If you're not sure where to store appliances in a small kitchen, the size of each device may be an important factor in your decision. French presses tend to be smaller as it's not an electric small kitchen appliance. The BAYKA model is 9.6"D x 5.6"W x 5.3"H and weighs just 1.3 pounds.

"A coffee maker is typically much larger than a French press. This is great if you are looking to make coffee for a crowd or a large family. If you are just making coffee for yourself or one other person, a French press may be a better option. You can store a French press away, and it will take up less space in your kitchen," says Kelsey. 

But not all coffee makers are huge. There are plenty of single-serve coffee makers on the narrow side like the Keruig K-Mini Coffee Maker (Amazon's #1 bestseller in single-serve brewers) which is less than five inches wide and weighs 4.6 pounds.

The verdict

Overall, which device is right for you depends on your lifestyle and barista skills. If you prefer a simple option that will brew coffee at just a click of a button, an automatic coffee maker may be the right choice. However, if you like a stronger brew, pick up a French press. Just make sure you're keeping your French press clean so you get the best results.

"Personally, I recommend a French press if you enjoy crafting a richer coffee flavor and don’t mind a bit more cleanup. It’s especially great for those who appreciate the art of making coffee and have the time to enjoy the process. However, a coffee maker might be the better choice for ease of use, consistent results, and the ability to brew large quantities of coffee more conveniently," says Kayla. 

As well as the brewing method, you can also experiment with the types of coffee beans you use. Decide between pods and ground coffee and experiment with different flavors and textures. "Both brewing methods have their unique benefits and can suit different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prefer the ease of a coffee maker or the richer brew of a French press, both can make excellent coffee with some practice and care," says Kayla.

If you're caught in the espresso machine vs coffee maker debate, we have some info to help find which appliance is right for you. 

We asked pro baristas and coffee experts about the differences between the end-result beverages. We have plenty of info about the pros and cons of each machine, including the features and sizes options. 

As we've tested plenty of the best coffee makers on the market, the Real Homes team has the know-how to weigh up all your options.

Espresso machine vs coffee maker

Trying to decide between an espresso machine and a coffee maker? If you're new to the world of barista brewing, you may be a bit taken aback by all the options out there. From small coffee makers to pod coffee makers, there's a lot to choose from.

We've broken down the key differences between an espresso machine and a coffee maker, with some help from industry experts. Plus, we included some of our favorite picks so you're guaranteed to snag a top-performing device.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

The coffee

When it comes to weighing up an espresso machine vs a coffee maker, the main difference is the end result they produce. It mostly comes down to the water-to-coffee ratio. 

Typically, a coffee maker refers to a device that brews drip coffee or pour-over coffee. Gravity pushes a large amount of water through coarsely ground coffee beans, resulting in a slower, slightly weaker brew. "A ratio of 1 gram of coffee to 15 grams of water is typically recommended for drip coffee. This provides a balance that is neither too strong nor too diluted," says Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and the current Head of Marketing at baristahq.com.

Espressos, on the other hand, are a much more concentrated coffee, either served as they are, or used as a base to create other drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. Espresso machines use pressure to shoot a small amount of water through finely ground coffee beans. 

An espresso is made up of the heart (bottom layer), body (middle layer), and crema (top layer). 

"Expresso is a rich, concentrated shot of coffee that’s the base for a variety of drinks. The quick extraction process preserves many of the delicate flavors in fresh coffee. Due to its concentrated nature, espresso uses a much tighter ratio, often around 1:2, which means one part coffee to two parts water," says Kayla.

So the first thing you need to consider when using a coffee maker is which type of drink you'd like to end up with. If you're looking for a smooth and mellow cup of drip coffee, consider a coffee maker like the Nespresso Vertuo Plus (available on Amazon) which just so happens to be Kim Kardashian's favorite coffee maker. 

But if you're looking to craft a variety of coffee drinks from a strong shot of espresso, look for a top-rated espresso machine, like the De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine with over 10,000 reviews on Amazon and shoppers complimenting its value for money.

Features

There are plenty of things to know before buying a coffee maker and one of the top factors in your decision should be the features of the machine. Typically, drip coffee makers are pretty simple — they brew one type of fuss-free coffee. For example, the Black and Decker Digital Coffee Maker (available on Amazon) has some programmable features for the brew time but only makes one type of coffee.

Meanwhile, espresso machines tend to come with a few more bells and whistles like milk frothers or bean-to-cup models which grind the coffee right in the machine. This Philips Series 4400 Fully Automatic LatteGo Espresso Machine (available on Amazon) makes 12 different coffee drinks, has a milk frother attached, and grinds the beans using 100% ceramic grinders. Or check out the Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine which is capable of a wide variety of drinks.

Size

A little stressed about where to store appliances in a small kitchen? Size is a major factor when deciding between an espresso machine vs coffee maker.

If you're looking for a tiny option, a single-serve coffee maker may be your best bet. Coffee makers come in all shapes and sizes but smaller machines like pod coffee makers and single-serve options can be pretty slim and can be wedged into narrow slots on your counter top. The Keruig K-Mini Coffee Maker (Amazon's #1 bestseller in single-serve brewers) is less than five inches wide and weighs 4.6 pounds.

Espresso makers on the other hand can be a bit cumbersome. They rely on heavy-duty materials to endure the pressure of the steam and heat. "Espresso machines typically employ stainless steel for durability and heat consistency, which is crucial for achieving optimal extraction pressure and temperature," says Kayla. 

They can also run quite large — the Philips Espresso machine is over 17 inches wide and weighs 17.63 pounds. 

The verdict

So which machine is right for you? It all depends on what you're looking for. Comparing options like single-serve vs bean-to-cup will help you prioritize which features you're looking for and which machine is right for your lifestyle.

If you like the taste of drip coffee and prefer a simple machine with easy functions, a coffee maker will be the better option for you. It's also a good choice if you're in a tiny kitchen as coffee makers tend to be smaller than espresso machines. 

But if you prefer the bells and whistles of a professional barista-style coffee maker, an espresso machine is the way to go. You'll have the freedom to experiment with drinks and make all kinds of coffees.

Finding the right brew for you, including pods vs. ground coffee, is all about experimentation. "Understanding the impact of different brewing materials can greatly enhance your coffee-making skills. Feel free to adjust the materials and ratios based on your personal taste and the specific beans you are using, as coffee is a deeply personal and customizable experience," says Kayla. 

In need of a caffeine boost? Look no further than Kim Kardashian's coffee maker. While you may not have thought to look to Kim for appliance recommendations, her favorite machine checks out. 

The Kardashians star took to TikTok to show a glimpse of her morning coffee routine. We were able to track down the exact machine she uses — the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee Maker, available on Amazon — and we know it's a winner not just because of the positive customer reviews, because we have tested and reviewed it ourselves.

We definitely consider Kim's pick to be one of the best coffee makers, so let's delve into everything we love about this device and how to improve your coffee routine.

Check out Kim Kardashian's coffee maker

Love her or hate her, it's no secret that Kim Kardashian is the queen of all things on-trend. From beauty products to her viral brand Skims, she has her finger on the pulse when it comes to items worth making popular, or in her cause sending things viral. The Nespresso coffee maker she has in her kitchen is no exception, and it made our list of the best single-serve coffee makers, too.

Kim shared her morning routine on TikTok, showing the audience how she gets ready for the day. In her video, she shows herself using the Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee Maker, our team has reviewed. 

Everything we love about the Nespresso Vertuo Plus

We tested this coffee maker at the Real Homes HQ and it quickly ranked as one of the top coffee machines in our list. Millie Fender, our former small appliances editor, says the slimline and sleek coffee maker works well on a small kitchen counter. 

This espresso machine is capable of making five-ounce, eight-ounce coffee, and single and double espresso. It comes with a removable 60-ounce water tank and a 10-count used pods container. It's quick too, with a heat-up time of only 15 seconds.

If you're a little worried about the environmental impact of pod coffee makers, it will be a relief to know that Nespresso aluminum pods are fully recyclable.

It's loaded with innovative features and the coffee tastes great, too. Millie likes the low-fuss brewing with Nespresso's own take on quality coffee, complete with crema-like foam that's a signature element of the Vertuo line. She rates the undeniably smart technology and says it's nice to only have one button but be able to make a range of different drink sizes.

More celeb coffee makers

There are plenty more celeb-endorsed coffee makers where that came from. Take a look at Drew Barrymore's single-serve coffee maker or Jennifer Lopez’s Keurig coffee maker. 

If you're a real coffee pro, baristas and coffee aficinados will love Vanessa Hudgens’ De'Longhi coffee maker for a long-term and solid coffee making investment. There's something for everyone, no matter if you're looking for something small to store on your counter or a high-quality bean-to-cup powerhouse.

Getting a bit warm in the summer? While you can make an iced coffee with the Nespresso Vertuo Plus (simply brew the coffee over ice in a glass) a specialized product may be the better option. We found eight of the best cold brew makers to get through those scorching summer months. 

If your body won't function without caffeine, the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker sale is the best time to take advantage of this small space appliance and make your early morning beverage dreams come true at the touch of a button.

Enjoy a whopping 40% off all seven colors of the nifty Keurig K Mini Coffee Maker on Amazon, which happens to be the number one bestselling kitchen appliance on the retailer's site. 

This deal is one we really can get behind as we've tested it ourselves and know exactly why it's brilliant. Here's why we love it, why customers love it and alternative single-serve coffee makers to shop.

Why we love the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker sale item

We reviewed the Keurig K Mini Coffee Maker and loved the sleek look, easy-to-operate design, and abundance of K-Cup coffee options, so after spotting it on Amazon with a 40% off deal, we had to share the good news as other retailers such as Best Buy and Macy's don't have this offer.

During testing, our expert reviewer loved the compact design which is perfect for small kitchens with limited counter space, its energy efficiency and easy cord storage. 

But leave enough time to brew your cup as takes a couple of minutes for one cup to be made, she says. However, we reckon that's a fair trade-off for the compact design and fab price point of just $59.99 (it usually retails for $99.99).

This beautiful little coffee maker, which comes in seven colors including mint, pink, dark green, and silver, made our list of best single-serve coffee makers and is a hit with Amazon shoppers, with more than 3,000 flying off the virtual shelves in the last month alone.

Why our tester loved the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

Compatible with any K-Cup coffee pods, including Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts, you're able to also use it with ground beans of your choice. It's teeny tiny, sitting at just under five inches wide, meaning even in the smallest of kitchens, you'll likely a find a good spot for this beaut.

Or, you can turn your favorite bar cart into a make-shift and portable coffee station. Wheel it into your small home office, have it on-hand but out of the way in your kitchen diner, or stash it in your pantry and pop it up onto your counter when you need it.

Installation is simple. Our reviewer, Brittany Romano says, "With one press of a button, the machine will start on its own."

It also has an auto-shut off function, switching off the device after 90 seconds to not only save energy, but whip away any nagging doubt you've left your coffee maker on after rushing out to work or meet friends.

It's worth noting during testing, Brittany didn't like how short the power cord was (it needs to be right next to an outlet, but you can use an extension such as the Ultra Thin 5FT Flat Extension Cord on Amazon, rated 5/5 stars by shoppers to remedy the issue) but said overall, using the Keurig K-Mini was a "seamless" experience. 

During testing, it did occasionally experience an overflow of water, but the instructions pin point this snag for users. It doesn't have a water tank so overfilling the unit (it will one 6-10 oz coffee) is the most common reason for this.

Why Amazon customers love it

Not only is this single serve coffee maker Amazon's bestselling kitchen appliance, it's Amazon's Choice and big hit with customers, who buy in their thousands every month. Across more than 97,000 reviews, this item carries a 4.5/5 average rating from happy shoppers.

I spent hours scouring on-site reviews from customers who purchased it, and noticed a theme of feedback. Customers love how compact it is, the ease of use, the range of K-Cups available (including customers who have ditched their morning drive thru and are making McDonald's coffees with their K-Cups from Amazon), and enjoy that you can make just one cup at a time.

They do mention that it isn't the quietest of machines, with one explaining that it's "louder than a regular coffee maker or French press, but I'd not call it loud."

Of the sticking points, some mention it splatters a bit, but the clean up is quicker than having to set up and wait for filter coffee or going to Starbucks. One reviewer said since buying this single serve coffee maker, they have ditched their regular Starbucks pit-stops and make the same at home on this machine instead.

If you live in a home-share, you can even set this up in the corner of your bedroom. One Amazon reviewer says they even use it to make noodles with the hot water function. Smart!

Where one customer had a faulty machine and it wasn't replaced by Amazon, Keurig stepped in to cover it. However, from my experience of Amazon and Prime membership for the last 14 years, I've never encountered a faulty product Amazon wouldn't refund or replace even outside of the 30-day return window. 

I called through to customer services via the Amazon App for a broken parasol a year after I purchased it and they gave me a refund, so in my view, the odd review showing a refusal to replace isn't of concern.

What else to shop

If you like the idea of a compact coffee maker, but this one isn't the right one for you, we have some brilliant alternative deals on Amazon to consider with fabulous ratings and features.

Once you're set up with your new appliance, learn how to clean your coffee maker to keep your cup of morning Joe tasting fresh.

Skipping the coffee shop? You're going to need some matcha tools to make a delicious energizing drink at home.

If you're looking for a boost of caffeine but want to ditch coffee, an iced matcha may be the perfect solution. While it may seem complicated, we asked the pros what you need to know before starting.

Making barista-quality drinks starts with investing in the right equipment, such as one of our best coffee makers and the essential tools you need to get your iced matcha just right.

Our favorite matcha tools for the perfect drink

If you're a cold drink aficionado, you may already have an iced coffee maker at home, but investing in some matcha tools will be well worth it as the drink has many benefits.

"Matcha is rich in antioxidants and provides a unique, smooth energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee," says Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and the current head of marketing at baristahq.com.

Before you get started, you'll need to pick up some high-quality matcha powder, such as the Jade Leaf Organic Green Tea Powder from Amazon with an average of 4.5/5 stars from happy customers across more than 91,000 reviews. 

"When making iced matcha at home, using high-quality matcha powder is key. Look for ceremonial-grade matcha, as it has a vibrant green color and smooth flavor, perfect for iced drinks," Jessica Randhawa, the head chef behind The Forked Spoon.

Once your matcha is in hand, it's time to grab some other supplies to mix everything up. See our top barista-approved picks.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Whisk or milk frother

One of the most important products you need for making matcha is a whisk. Traditionally, a bamboo whisk called a chasen (such as this DoMatcha whisk available from Amazon) is used to blend the matcha powder with hot water. "This bamboo whisk is traditional and essential for achieving smooth, lump-free matcha. It's specifically designed to whisk matcha in a zigzag motion and helps to aerate the tea, creating a nice frothy texture," says Kayla. 

If you don't have access to chasen, you can use an electric whisk or milk frother instead. If you have a well-stocked coffee bar you may already have one on hand. "If you don’t have a chasen, a small electric frother can work as an alternative. If you’re using an electric frother, whisk until you see bubbles and the matcha is well mixed," says Nic Vanderbeeken, executive chef at Apéritif.

Glasses and other accessories

You'll need a few more odds and ends when it comes to crafting the perfect cup of matcha. If you have a pod coffee maker, you may be used to just brewing your coffee into a mug. But for matcha, you'll need a mixing bowl (traditionally called a chawan) to mix the powder and hot water. 

We like the Jade Leaf Matcha Traditional Porcelain Tea Bowl available from Amazon for its easy-to-pour spout. "While any small bowl can be used, a traditional ceramic matcha bowl is wide enough to allow proper whisking," says Kayla. 

If you're having a cold drink, you'll also need some tall drinking glasses to ensure room for the ice. "A clear glass is perfect for iced matcha, allowing you to appreciate the vibrant green color of the drink," says Kayla. 

Top it all off with a reusable straw either made of glass, stainless steel, or silicone. Just remember to clean reusable straws regularly to avoid nasty build-up.

If you're looking for the perfect companion to a small coffee maker, investing in good-quality matcha tools is the way to go. 

"Making iced matcha at home is easy once you have the right tools and techniques. It’s not only a refreshing drink but also a nutritious one that can be enjoyed at any time of the day," says Kayla.

Next, delve into our best single serve coffee makers.

You're going to need to know the perfect coffee to water ratio if you're brewing up a pot at home. No need to visit the coffee shop every day if you know the secret to making great drinks at home. 

We asked the pros how to nail this crucial step in coffee-making so your drink doesn't come out too bitter or watered down. Plus, knowing the right amount of coffee to use means you won't waste extra beans (hello, extra oat milk money!). 

See how to make the most of your coffee maker, with our perfect coffee to water ratio. Your morning just got a little better, trust us.

The perfect coffee to water ratio

Even if you're using a small coffee maker, you should know how to make the most of your machine. "Finding the perfect coffee-to-water ratio can significantly enhance your coffee experience, affecting everything from flavor intensity to aroma and body," says Kayla Stavridis, a former Starbucks barista and the current Head of Marketing at baristahq.com.

General coffee ratio

You'll only need two ingredients to make a cup of coffee — coffee grounds and hot water. But what is the best ratio of the two? "The ideal ratio is generally considered to be 1:16, meaning one part coffee to 16 parts water. For a standard cup, this translates to about 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water," says Jessica Randhawa, the head chef behind The Forked Spoon.

Of course, you can always alter this if you prefer a weaker or stronger drink. "Adjusting this ratio slightly can cater to personal preferences; for instance, a stronger brew can be achieved with a 1:15 ratio, while a milder cup might use a 1:17 ratio. Ensuring precise measurements helps extract the right amount of flavors, avoiding overly bitter or weak coffee," says Jessica.

Other coffee preparation methods

Traditional brewing isn't the only way to make a cup of coffee. You can use single-serve coffee makers or pod coffee makers to create all kinds of different drinks. 

"With full immersion brewing, like a French press, I recommend a tighter ratio, closer to 1:15. Since all the water sits with all the coffee for the full brewing time, there's more time for extraction. Using a bit less water helps balance out the flavor," says Johny Morrisson, a former Barista, and a blogger at coffeeabout.com.

Espresso is a much stronger drink, used for making lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. "For espressos, the coffee-to-water ratio is much higher, typically around 1:2. We're talking about 7-9 grams of finely ground coffee for a 15-20 gram shot of espresso. This concentrated ratio is what gives espresso its intense, bold flavor and thick texture," says Johny. Or check out the Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine which is capable of a wide variety of drinks.

You don't even need heat to make a good cup of coffee. Use a cold brew maker, like this highly-rated cold brew press from Walmart, to whip up a refreshing cool drink instead. "This method requires a higher coffee concentration, generally around 1:8, since the coffee is steeped for an extended period (usually 12 to 24 hours) and often served diluted with milk or water," says Kayla.

The coffee to water ratio isn't the only factor that will affect the overall taste of your drink. Investing in good materials and keeping your coffee maker clean will greatly improve the quality. "The materials used, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, can influence heat retention and flavor consistency. Investing in high-quality equipment and experimenting with various methods can significantly elevate the coffee-drinking experience, allowing one to discover their preferred brewing style," says Jessica.

Upgrade your morning brew with the KitchenAid espresso maker, as approved by Jennifer Garner. Not only is it beloved by celebs, this powerful machine can brew up just about any coffee drink you can think of. 

The 13 Going on 30 star took to Instagram to share how she uses the impressive KitchenAid espresso maker, available on Amazon which has a piping hot $200 discount on offer right via the retailer. In the video Jennifer made some light and fluffy pancakes as part of her social media cooking series, as well as brewed some coffee along the way, showcasing it's versatility and why it's worth the counter space in your kitchen.

Let's dive into everything this awesome coffee maker can do and why it's worth the spend, but don't worry if the $1000 price point is too high as we've found some budget-friendly alternatives you can snag instead.

Why we love Jennifer Garner's KitchenAid espresso maker

A good espresso maker is one of the best small kitchen appliances you can invest in. If you often find yourself at coffee shops in the morning, spending tons of money on macchiatos and cappuccinos, think again. While it's a pricey spend, picking up a high-quality espresso maker can actually save you money in the long run. 

Actress Jennifer Garner shared her favorite espresso maker on her Instagram account in her long-running cooking series, Pretend Cooking Show. Jennifer makes an americano at the push of a button in the brand-new KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF8.

KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

The KitchenAid espresso maker is full of bells and whistles making it a pretty extraordinary buy. It comes with 15 different drink options including lattes, cappuccinos, esprsso, and more. The bean-to-cup machine comes with a removable bean hopper compartment so you can swap out beans easily.

There's no work required for your cup of Joe. The built-in grinder will automatically get the grind right and deliver the perfect drink. The Auto Purge function clears out the remaining beans in the grinder between batches.

The machine also comes with a separate milk container that you can fill with the milk of your choice. Just make sure to clean your coffee maker regularly to ensure the best quality.

The screen is clear and easy to use, presenting a label and image for each drink it can brew. And if you're a little forgetful, it comes with an automatic shut-off function and indicator light. 

It's available in four colors — Porcelain White (the color of Jennifer's model), Cast Iron Black, Juniper (a dark, rich green), and Stainless Steel. If your kitchen sees a lot of wear and tear, stainless steel may be the best option as it's so durable (one of the good things to know before buying a coffee maker).

Budget-friendly coffee alternatives

In need of a more budget-friendly small coffee maker? Something more simple like a pod coffee maker may be better suited for you. While you may not be able to grind beans fresh for each cup, pod machines can still brew a pretty great cup of coffee. 

You may also be limited on counter space and just want a machine that's smaller in scale, like a Nespresso coffee maker. There are plenty of slim coffee makers on the market that will slide into tiny spaces, including another celeb-approved find.

Jennifer definitely knows her way around the kitchen so we trust her cooking essentials and appliance picks. We also tracked down Jennifer's Dutch oven and KitchenAid stand mixer she uses for baking. We know we'll be tuning in the next time she whips up a delicious recipe.

If you need a strong morning pick-me-up, Jessica Alba's go-to Nespresso coffee and espresso machine is enjoying 30% off during Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

The mega savings event, which will take place from March 20 to 25, is slashing prices on virtually everything, including kitchen essentials. We'd be remiss not to peruse the offerings, especially when our coveted caffeine intake is concerned. 

Since Nespresso is responsible for some of the best coffee makers on shelves, we highly encourage you to take a looksie, too. 

This Nespresso coffee and espresso machine has 30% off

In a morning routine round-up on Instagram, Jessica Alba's coffee machine makes a super-brief cameo. Though we only catch a half-second of it in action, we're certain we'd enjoy having our morning cup of Joe from one of the best Nespresso coffee makers out there. 

We were thrilled to see the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi is now discounted in Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

This made the list as one of our best single-serve coffee makers as it heats up your java in just 25 seconds and boasts plenty of offerings: 5oz or 8oz coffee, as well as single and double espresso. Who needs the corner coffee shop now?

What to shop

Now is the time to maximize countertop space in a small kitchen and give your Nespresso machine a little room. 

If you want to take your espresso sipping to luxe levels, the highly-rated (and highly-priced) Breville Barista espresso machines on Amazon  are also being discounted. The lowest price starts at $399.95 for the Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine BES810BSS on Amazon (originally $499.95).

Now that you're stocking up on a new gadget, you're going to have to give it the proper TLC. Fortunately, we've rounded tips for cleaning your coffee maker and the grossest 10 coffee maker cleaning mistakes to avoid at all costs.

The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System is a multifunctional beast. If it could speak, it would say, "Hey, do you want a coffee maker? Here you go! An espresso machine? We’ll give you that, too!" 

I love to use a Nespresso when I’m traveling, but at home, I've historically gone for a more manual method of making espresso. But let me tell you: after a few weeks of popping in a pod every morning and it making my daily starts easier, I’m a convert. 

The Ninja does both incredibly well. If you take the plunge on this appliance, you’ll be slinging coffee in the morning, iced lattes in the afternoon, and espresso for the perfect post-dinner affogato. Ninja hit the nail on the head calling it a barista system as this coffee maker lets you do it all.

Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System review

What I thought of the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System

Ninja does it again with multi-use machines that make life easier. This
part pod coffee maker, part drip filter coffee maker has made my mornings so much easier. 

I just walk over to this barista system and, quite literally, turn into a barista. I’m brewing a pot of coffee for my husband (knowing it’ll stay hot through all his morning calls), then making myself a latte before I log on. 

Depending on my mood, I might go for a rich brew for the coffee or a lungo (the big guy) for my espresso. Maybe in the afternoon, I’ll opt for an espresso over ice for an iced latte. The bottom line is: I have options. 

Same goes for cup size options. I can use a mug, my best travel coffee mug, or a carafe. I can adjust the tray on the espresso side when I want to use my tiny espresso cup and feel oh so fancy. This machine makes it so simple to customize the coffee to what I want at that moment without having to resort to another machine.

Also, this is a small detail, but I love the progress bar. Knowing roughly how much time is left is a game changer in the morning, especially when I’m trying to carefully coordinate heating the milk with my espresso or timing hot oatmeal with my coffee. 

The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System does what it can to save space, especially with the milk frother that folds in and the coffee scoop that snaps right into the side. But it’s not a coffee maker with particularly small footprint. 

I found it’s nearly the same size as our separate coffee maker and espresso maker combined — which is great, but not necessarily a space-saver.

Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System specifications

Unboxing and setting up the Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System

Ninja does a great job of boxing their machines snugly, but not overdoing it on the packaging. There’s always minimal assembly, which is even more appreciated when trying out a machine like this, which has multiple sections. There was a decent amount of plastic to unwrap and stickers to remove, but it felt easy to follow.

I hand-washed all the parts with a little unscented dish soap (I use 365 by Whole Foods from Amazon), then I ran a cycle for a full coffee carafe. I was ready to make my first espresso within just a few minutes (don’t give me one of the best espresso makers to open mid-afternoon and expect me to wait until the morning!).

Using the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System

If you know how to use a coffee maker or enjoy one of the best Nespresso coffee machines already, this brilliant small kitchen appliance will be a breeze. It’s super easy to use, and the Quick Start Guide will answer any questions you have (though you probably won’t even need to pull it out — it’s that intuitive).

To make coffee, fill the reservoir to the amount you want. Then, scoop your ground coffee using the Ninja Smart Scoop, which tells you the exact amount to use depending on how much coffee you’re brewing. 

Choose the style of coffee you want: classic, rich, or over ice. Turn the dial to the size you’d like, whether that’s an 8, 10, or 12oz. cup, 15 or 18oz. travel mug, or a 28, 37, 46, or 55oz. carafe. Hit brew, then watch the progress bar indicate where you are in the process. The warming plate will keep your coffee warm for up to four hours, with two hours being the default.

To make an espresso with perfect crema, fill the reservoir to at least the 8 oz. cup size and pop in a Nespresso OriginalLine Capsule (such as these from Amazon). 

With espresso, you have even more options. You can make a 25ml ristretto, 40ml espresso, 110ml lungo, or 30 mL to go over ice for a delicious iced latte. Start the brew, then wait for that creamy caffeine to be dispensed. 

Want to add milk to your beverage? Fill a cup half full with milk. Be sure to microwave it if you want warm milk (this is the one frustration I have with the machine — I wish it steamed the milk). Then swing the frothing arm out, and froth away. Around 30-45 seconds of frothing should do the trick. 

How to clean the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System

Good news for those who prefer the ease of throwing everything in the dishwasher. Nearly everything — except the machine itself, of course — is dishwasher safe.  You can throw the brew basket, glass carafe, and brew-through lid, water reservoir and lid, frother whisk, smart scoop, capsule bin, adjustable cup tray, and cup tray base all in the dishwasher. A damp microfiber cleaning cloth (like these from Amazon) will do the trick on the machine.

You’ll descale both the coffee side and the espresso side occasionally (I use Dezcal sachets from Amazon), though make sure you have plenty of time on your side. The coffee side will take up to 75 minutes to complete, while the espresso side will take approximately two hours.

Is the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System right for you?

For those who love a hot cup of coffee in the morning and a creamy espresso in the afternoon for a pick-me-up, the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System is perfection. At $249.99, the price point is about what you'd pay for a high-end single-serve coffee maker — but you're getting a small coffee maker that brews in bulk, too. 

However, on the same note, if a small footprint is a priority for you, this machine may not be for you. It does take up a bit of counter space, though less than two separate machines would. Also, if you prefer steamed milk with your espresso drinks, then you may be frustrated by the milk frother and lack of heating. It's something I wish I had known before buying a small coffee maker.

If this coffee maker doesn't sound right for you, try these coffee makers for size:

How we test coffee makers

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill and, most importantly, is easy to remove (can it be removed at all?) and whether it’s easy to clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System, I observed how well the machine made two different types of beverages — brewed coffee and espresso — and whether it prepared both equally well. 

About the review — and the reviewer

A shot of Joe is one of my favorite treats, and with the Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker, I can easily make them right in the comfort of my own home — and save a little cash in the process. To see if this budget-friendly espresso maker is worth bringing home, I tested it out for a week (I'm a product reviewer specializing in home and kitchen products), making lots of lattes to replace my morning cup. 

While the appliance does have a few quirks, I thought its overall performance was impressive considering its compact size and wallet-friendly price point, and I’ll be keeping it around for those times I need an extra jolt of caffeine. 

This compact espresso maker is a new release from Mr. Coffee, which is known for its budget-friendly kitchen appliances, and it’s surprisingly affordable at just $60. In addition to brewing fresh shots of espresso, it’s equipped with an easy-to-use milk frother so you can whip up lattes and cappuccinos that will rival your favorite barista’s. That’s not to say it's perfect. The tamp isn’t very effective, and you have to wrestle the portafilter into place. Not to mention, all the pieces are hand-wash only. However, none of these factors are deal breakers.

• Model number: BVMCECM-STMMN-BL
• Dimensions (in.): H12.28 x W6.46 x L8.62
• Weight: 4 lbs
• Water tank capacity: 8 fl oz (US)
• Cord length (in): 24
• Wattage: 900W
• Accessories included: Plastic water pitcher, plastic espresso measuring scoop, and stainless steel milk-frothing pitcher.

Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker review

Setting up the espresso maker

When this small coffee maker arrived, I was surprised at how light the box was. The appliance was packaged in a thick layer of foam and wrapped in an additional plastic bag — not the most sustainable — but it was fully assembled right out of the box. All I had to do was remove a few pieces of tape holding the drip tray in place and insert the portafilter. Before using the coffee maker for the first time, the manual says to run water through it to rinse it out.

Using the espresso maker

To make an espresso, start by filling up the water tank using the measuring cup that comes in the box, using its lines to pour the right amount of water for either two or four shots of espresso. There’s no option for a single shot, but I found you can stop the brew cycle when you have as much espresso as you want.

Next, I used the included scoop to put ground espresso into the portafilter — the handle-like piece that has a little basket on the end for your coffee grounds. Again, there are lines to let you choose between 2-4 shots, but they’re on the outside of the filter basket, making it tricky to fill precisely. 

The back of the scoop is flat, allowing you to tamp down the espresso, but honestly, it’s pretty ineffective. If you buy this machine, I’d recommend picking up a cheap tamper (a small tool to push down coffee grounds) more effectively. This 51mm stainless steel coffee tamper on Amazon is cheap and highly-rated by shoppers.

Putting the portafilter into the machine is a task that’s easier said than done. The manual says it’s a tight fit — and they weren’t kidding! Because the machine is so lightweight, it tends to slide around as you twist the portafilter into place, so you have to use some muscle to hold it down and twist the handle. 

Hopefully, it will loosen up over time, otherwise, you’re in for an arm workout every time you want to make a drink! This is worth keeping in mind if you have any trouble with your grip strength.

Test 1: Making espresso

To use this coffee maker, you simply turn the dial on the side of the machine to start brewing. It takes around two minutes for the water to heat up, before it presses hot steam through the espresso grounds to extract all that delicious caffeine. I have a special espresso glass that’s perfect for one shot, but I found it’s easier to brew into a mug — it splatters a lot less.

I don’t consider myself an espresso connoisseur, but I thought the drink was pretty good! There wasn’t a thick layer of crema (the reddish foam on espressos) like other fancier machines create, but it was still flavorful and the foundation for a great latte. 

Test 2: Frothing milk

The Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker has a built-in milk frother on the right side that allows you to froth milk for your drinks, and the small kitchen appliance also comes with a handy metal pitcher for the task. 

If you’re making an espresso drink, the instructions say you should pause the machine mid-brew to froth your drink. However, I also successfully did it after the brewing was complete, so I don’t think it matters when you do it, as long as there’s hot steam left. 

I filled the pitcher roughly halfway full with milk, then inserted the spigot (the little faucet where the espresso comes out) under the surface of the liquid. I turned the dial to the froth setting, and it started jetting out hot steam and making the milk bubble. 

The milk steadily increased in volume (which is why you don’t want to fill the pitcher up too high) and temperature, and I turned it off when the outside of the pitcher was hot to the touch. 

Once my milk was ready, it was just a matter of pouring the espresso and milk into a mug. I also added a pump of delicious DaVinci caramel syrup (from Amazon), a scoop of sugar, and voila! A delicious latte. It tasted every bit as good as the ones I buy, and even my partner gave the drinks two thumbs up.

Cleaning the espresso maker

Cleaning this coffee maker is fiddly, but only takes a few minutes. The first, and most important, step is to release any extra steam in the machine. To do this, you unplug it, then turn the dial to the steam setting. It will sputter out any leftover steam, and only then is it safe to take off the water tank lid.

Beyond that, you just need to wash the portafilter and frothing spigot. I dumped my used espresso into the trash, then rinsed out the filter and portafilter. Occasionally, there was a bit of residue left inside them, but it wiped off easily with a sponge. 

A reminder that these pieces are hand-wash only — it says it on the handle — so don’t risk ruining them by putting them in the dishwasher. As for the spigot, the black rubber cap slips off for easy rinsing, and you can wipe down any lingering milk foam with a sponge or paper towel.

How does it compare?

The Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker is one of the cheapest espresso makers we've tested, but there are better-looking designs out there, with larger water tanks so you don't have to fill it as often. All of the alternate options I've listed have longer cable lengths too; one of the things I wish I knew before buying a small coffee maker for
my power outlet-poor kitchen.

How we test espresso makers

Here’s what I looked for while trying out the machine, in line with how the internal Real Homes team tests coffee makers: 

Unboxing: I looked at how well the machine was packaged and if the materials were sustainable (such as using cardboard instead of Styrofoam). 

Operation: After reading through the instruction manual, I made multiple drinks, and observed how long the machine took to warm up, how easy the controls were to operate, and how loud it was.

Drink quality: I made several drinks with the coffee maker, including espresso and lattes, and as I drank each one, I evaluated the brew strength and temperature. I also made drinks for friends and family to get their opinions on the flavor. 

Ease of use: I considered whether the appliance was easy and intuitive to operate. I also looked at the machine’s instructions, noting whether they were clearly written and easy to follow.  

Ease of cleaning: I cleaned the machine after each use, noting how long it took and if any special tools were required. 

I make a latte every morning and Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe is making my obsession a little bit easier. With this latest foray into the espresso world, the Prima Latte Luxe has a fancy name for a fancy but easy-to-use machine. 

This compact espresso maker brews single and double shots of espresso, cappuccino, and latte. I just press a button and velvety frothed milk and perfectly smooth espresso are dispensed in the exact right proportions, right before my eyes.

Before adding this machine to my kitchen countertop, you could have asked me for a latte or a cappuccino, and I would have handed you the same thing each time — milk and espresso, right? 

But they are not the same and now, this machine makes them for me, knocking out the need to figure out how to do the slightly varied processes for each. I’m still not sure of the difference, but I don’t need to be! Mr. Coffee’s got it covered. Single. Double. Latte. Cappuccino. This machine makes it all.

And, before you say, "Doesn’t Mr. Coffee just do basic coffee makers?" Let me tell you, Mr. Coffee is proving they’re so much more. They’ve figured out the recipe for making the best small coffee makers with beverages as good as anything you’ll get in a coffee shop. I haven’t bought a single latte since I started using this machine two weeks ago, which speaks for itself.

Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe review

What I thought of the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

I’ve used a Mr. Coffee machine before with great results and I’m always game for an easier way to make an espresso drink, so I was pumped to try out this machine. Once you get the hang of it, it's the easiest espresso maker to use. In the past, I’ve used more manual espresso machines, actively holding the milk-frothing pitcher and hoping I’m getting the right texture. This does it all for you at the touch of a button.

The design is clever, with a two-sided scoop to give you exactly the grounds you need for a single or a double shot of espresso. The filters easily pop into the portafilter. The drip tray adjusts to accommodate everything from your travel mug to a dainty espresso cup. And you can’t beat the milk reservoir, which has a lid for keeping it in the refrigerator. That means you can fill it up once, then have it ready to go for days on end. 

Want a latte? Just hit the button. Want to make it a double? Again, a button. Want to add an extra shot of espresso? There’s a button for that. It’s so incredibly easy. Each drink is creamy and the milk is always beautifully frothed. Even plain espresso has a thick, impressive crema (the froth on top of an espresso).

Clean-up is just as easy, with multiple parts being dishwasher-friendly. My only hiccup throughout the process was wishing there had been a quick start guide to get me up and moving. I’m someone who looks at a booklet full of directions and just wants to get to the end, so having an easy-to-follow quick-start guide is always preferred to a manual. But, hey, maybe that’s coming after this great coffee maker has been on the market a bit longer.

Testing the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe coffee maker

Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe specifications

• Model name: Mr. Coffee® Prima Latte Luxe
• Dimensions (in.): H16 x W11.7 x L13.3   
• Water capacity: 800 ml
• Wattage: 500 watts
• Material: Plastic
• Compatibility: ESE pod compatible

Unboxing and setting up the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

The Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe espresso maker came securely packaged in a corrugated cardboard box inside a reasonably sized cardboard box. I didn’t have to dig through an abundance of packaging just to get to my new espresso machine. Instead, I just pulled it out, spent some time taking the stickers off (always so many stickers), took out the red plug from the water reservoir, and then referenced the guide to help put it together.

The machine is mostly assembled, though you’ll need to put the milk reservoir, water reservoir, and drip trays into place. I found those to be a little bit finicky, and I did go back and forth between the manual and the machine to try to make sense of the parts. I spent a few minutes fiddling with the drip tray before I got it right. The milk reservoir also takes some precision to snap it into place. However, none of these complaints are deal breakers. They're quirks in the design, but you'll get used to them (probably quicker than I have).

Mr. Coffee included everything you need, including the coffee scoop for pre-measured espresso, two filters for the portafilter, and a lid and an extra straw for the milk reservoir. The machine is super and sleek, but one thing that you may notice is all the parts are shiny plastic. This feels a little at odds with the $399 price tag, and perhaps one of the things you wish you knew before buying this small coffee maker. But, the machine still feels solid and looks sleek.

Before you make your first drink, wash the water reservoir, milk reservoir, milk system components, portafilter, filters, and scoop tamp with mild detergent and water. Then prime the machine, which involves filling the milk and water to the max lines, then running a manual espresso cycle and a manual froth cycle. As soon as those finish, you’re ready to start brewing.

Using the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

Back to my earlier gripe, I do wish there was a quick start guide with the Prima Latte Luxe, but, alas, the manual will have to do. It’s detailed, which is great, even explaining the type of coffee to use (freshly ground, fine grind, resembling the size of table salt) or ESE capsules (Easy Serving Espresso), if you want to use it like a pod coffee maker).

To start, turn the machine on. This machine does take a minute to warm up, but there is a progress bar along the control panel that shows you when it’s ready to use. Make sure the water reservoir is filled, and then fill the milk reservoir if you want to make a latte or cappuccino. 

You can fill it to the minimum level if you only plan on making one or fill it to the max if you prefer to have it full and ready to go when you are (use the lid to keep it airtight between uses in the fridge!). The milk reservoir snaps on, though it does take a minute to figure out how to make sure it’s securely in. You’ll know it’s not if the latte and cappuccino options don’t light up.

Decide how much caffeine you need. There’s both a single shot and a double shot filter and the two-sided scoop lets you put exactly the right amount of coffee into that filter. If you want to get fancy, use the no-mess feature, which involves a quick flip of the scoop into the filter. For me, that was a little more trouble than it was worth when making a double shot (single was fine to navigate), but perhaps that’s a human coordination error on my part.

The portafilter takes a strong turn to make sure it’s in the machine, which I appreciate. You know you’re getting a solid seal. You’ll want to move the drip tray to accommodate the size mug or cup you’re using or you risk making a mess of milk an espresso. This piece also takes a little bit of finagling, but, eventually, you’ll learn the right angle to get it in on the first try. In my opinion, the best coffee mugs for this machine are wide and low. You need a wide enough surface that both the milk and the espresso can dispense into it with you having to nudge the cup.

Making espresso

With everything in place, you’re all set to caffeinate. With the clear touch screen, select one or two shots for espresso, cappuccino, or latte. Then press the play button. 

The drink cycle runs through on its own and beeps when it’s done (something I take for granted when a machine has it, but notice when it doesn't). I love that I don’t have to go back to the machine between espresso and milk. It just does it all. It's like having my own personal barista in the kitchen. 

Want to add a little extra something? You can also manually add another espresso shot or manually froth milk.

One note — I found myself repeatedly forgetting to turn the machine off after using it. Luckily, I must not be the only one. There’s an auto-off feature that shuts the machine off after 15 minutes. It can then be turned back with any button, though, ideally, you’ll turn it off correctly. 

Cleaning the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

After each use, you’ll want to clean all of the frothing components, run a shot of “espresso” without the portafilter in, and rinse out the drip tray. This machine makes it incredibly easy with a cleaning option right on the milk reservoir. Just make sure there’s a cup ready to catch the extra grounds water and froth.

The milk reservoir, and water reservoir are dishwasher safe, while everything else should be washed with warm water and mild detergent (an unscented dish soap on Amazon will do just fine). And, word from the wise, don’t run the portafilter through the dishwasher. I haven’t had it happen with this machine, but I did once have a houseguest run another portafilter through and RIP to the portafilter — not the guest.

When cleaning any coffee maker, you do want to descale it regularly. Mr. Coffee recommends descaling every 80 uses if you have soft or filtered water, and every 40 uses with hard or tap water.

This can be done easily by putting white household vinegar in the water reservoir overnight, then rinsing it thoroughly, and running a half-full tank of water shots through twice. My colleagues at Real Homes have a whole guide on how to clean a coffee make with vinegar plus a ton of other coffee maker cleaning hacks and coffee maker cleaning mistakes to avoid.

Is the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe right for you?

If you want the delicious taste of latte and cappuccino drinks at home but also love simple single-serve coffee makers, then this Prima Latte Luxe is absolutely for you. This machine makes barista-level espresso and espresso drinks, but it does it in a foolproof way. There are still a few quirks in the design, but nothing that affects the taste or quality of the drinks.

Mr. Coffee has created a machine that’s easy-to-use and incredibly simple. At $399, it’s pricier than most Mr. Coffee machines, but it’s a steal for an espresso maker with an automated approach. 

Good to know

Instructions
The Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe has an instruction guide to walk you through how to use the machine for espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes. It isn't available online so make sure you hang on to yours.

Warranty
A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe.

Where to buy the Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe

The Mr. Coffee Prima Latte Luxe is a brand-new product that is currently only available through Amazon.

However, if this isn't the right coffee maker for you, we've rounded up good alternatives to mull over.

How we test coffee makers

We have a set process for testing coffee makers at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the espresso maker.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing espresso machines:

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill and whether it’s easy to clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use this coffee maker? Are the prompts/buttons legible? Do I know when the machine is done?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it clear how much product I need to use to make coffee?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Mr. Coffee® Prima Latte Luxe, I noted the ease in making a latte, cappuccino, and espresso, all of which were accurate to their descriptions. The milk frother functionality was a game changer.

Winter mornings are rough, but the newly released Drew Barrymore coffee maker has convinced us not to hit snooze. 

With a customizable cup of hot Joe at the ready, we're willing to put up with grey, gloomy skies first thing in the morning. Plus, the calming colors of Drew's debut kitchen appliance will give any counter a pop of personality. 

If you need a little assistance for those winter wake-up calls, here's why Drew's new  small coffee maker should make its way into your shopping cart.

What we know about the new Drew Barrymore coffee maker

If you're brewing solo, the original Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker, which makes 14 cups, might not be necessary. But there's a lot to love about the new Beautiful Perfect Grind Programmable Single Serve Coffee Maker, a delightful addition to any small kitchen. 

Let's start with the obvious: this coffee maker is a social media dream in all of its sleek glory and lovely shades: Sage Green, Cornflower Blue, White Icing, and Black Sesame. And the coffee will taste as good as the single-serve coffee maker looks thanks to its features. 

You can have your morning java hot, or if you're a fan of iced coffee makers, double up with this small kitchen appliance. Drew's coffee maker offers use of whole beans or grounds (though it looks like a pod coffee maker), in three different strengths (regular, bold, over ice), and six different sizes. 

We love that it's programmable, has a reusable filter, and utilizes Exact-Xtract technology to draw out twice as much flavor as the best Keurig coffee makers on the market. That's certainly a lot for a little machine, don't you think?

*Formal review to come*

Even if you're an early bird and still need a caffeinated pick-me-up, this machine is ready to do the honors. And with a bit of elbow grease, savvy coffee maker cleaning hacks will keep your favorite drink tasting as good as it can.

The Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker and Blender can whip up the icy, creamy deliciousness that is a frappe. And who doesn't love this cold menu item? It’s like a milkshake that’s totally acceptable to drink daily because it’s coffee.

From simple coffee frappes to the seasonal flavors we wait all year for (peppermint mocha, right?), these are a coffeehouse favorite whenever you’re feeling a little spicier than just a standard latte. But have you ever thought about making one at home? If you’re anything like me, the idea of pulling out a clunky blender is enough to put the idea on hold indefinitely. Plus, there’s the foresight of having iced coffee in the fridge…it’s all just too much.

The Mr. Coffee Frappe Iced and Hot set out to eliminate those obstacles. If you’re coming from the startup world, you could say they’re disrupting the frappe industry. This small coffee maker comes in multiple colors, but I’m partial to the matte black for its minimalism. It’s reminiscent of the Mr. Coffee® 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker, which I reviewed recently, except, in place of the frother, it has a blender. As a reminder, the Latte Maker was given five stars. It earned a permanent spot on my countertop.

So how did the 3-in-1 Frappe compare? And did it live up to its frozen expectations? Unfortunately, not quite. We’ll get into it in a second but, the reality of trying to blend iced coffee straight from a coffee maker is that you’re going to end up with more of a liquid than a creamy frozen concoction. I wanted this to be it — it’s compact, it’s easy, it’s versatile! 

Mr. Coffee single-serve frappe, iced, and hot coffee maker review

What I thought of the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

I wanted to love this coffee maker! The idea of blending my coffee right into a frappe with the touch of a button was a dream. Mechanically, the machine works nicely. The buttons are easy to understand and legible. The ground coffee seems to be appropriately saturated by the shower head.

Making black coffee

The coffee brews well. The Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker makes a good, basic cup of coffee. I even had my husband, who only drinks black coffee, test it, and he confirmed — this was a nice cup of coffee, if not terribly strong. If I had paid for the product, this might be one of the things I wish I knew before buying this small coffee maker.

The iced coffee maker did what it should — it made coffee straight into a cup of ice, which melted but cooled down the coffee. It could have been stronger or more concentrated to hold up to the ice, but it was absolutely drinkable.

The frappe, the machine’s namesake, is where it goes wrong. Because the coffee melts the ice, the resulting frappe is watery, rather than blended. I had to add more ice when I blended it to try to fix the consistency, but that diluted the coffee taste. The blender does work fabulously when you put more ice in there, and I love that it runs itself through a cycle instead of relying on the user watching it, but the taste just wasn’t there.

Testing the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender

Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender Specifications

• Model name: Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker and Blender
• Dimensions (in.): H13.2 x W10.3 x L9.8   
• Weight (lbs): 10 pounds
• Water tank capacity: 22 fl. oz.
• Wattage: 1200 watts

Unboxing and setting up the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender

Mr. Coffee continuously comes through with expertly wrapped, minimal packaging. This was securely packaged within a corrugated cardboard enclosure within a not-too-big box. The necessary pieces, including the blender and filter basket, were wrapped in plastic, and there were a few stickers to hold it all together. 

There’s a sticker on the top of the water tank filter basket lid for a quick guide for measurements for each type of coffee. I know this is supposed to be removed, but I’d keep it right where it is to make it easy for quick reference.

It took me just a few minutes to set up the machine, including popping the coffee scoop in the side storage, putting the filter basket and reusable filter in place, putting the blender on its stand, and dropping in the drip tray and cover. Incredibly easy and intuitive.

Before you dive into your first frappe, wash the parts, including the filter basket, reusable filter, blender, and two included plastic BPA-free tumblers(also available to buy separately on Amazon) with mild detergent and water. Fill the water reservoir to the 22 oz. line put the tumbler in place, and run one cycle through to get the machine ready to go.

How to use the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender

Obviously, when you put a machine in front of me that claims to easily make frappes, I’m going to make a frappe. So that’s the first drink I tried when using this coffee maker. While there are a few more steps involved in making a frappe than there might be with other coffee drinks, Mr. Coffee makes it super easy. All of the measurements are on the side of the blender base. 

First things first, turn the machine on (this isn’t necessary with some other Mr. Coffee makers!). Then you’ll use the measurement on the blender jar to fill up to the “WATER” line with filtered water. Pour that into the water reservoir. 

You’re going to want to make iced coffee for your frappe. So use the iced coffee side of the coffee scoop to put two generous scoops of grounds into the reusable filter. Then, fill the blender jar with milk to the “MILK” line. You can use any type of milk here, though I went for regular milk. Fill it the rest of the way to the “ICE” line with ice. Brew an “OVER ICE” cycle, which should take about four minutes. 

This is a snag in the process I found confusing — it’s unclear when it’s done. The directions say to wait for the dripping to slow and stop, but it also notes that “a few sparse coffee drips” may continue. It’s hard to know when you’ve stopped vs. when you’re seeing drips. 

Regardless, the next step is to put in any syrups, sweeteners, or flavorings. Basically, at this point, the more mix-ins, the better. The guide notes that putting syrup and sugar in will help the consistency. You can use the blender cap to help, which has measurements for one tablespoon, two tablespoons, three tablespoons, and ¼ cup. With everything in, put the blender lid on, put the jar on the mount, and lock it in place. Once you hit blend, the blender will run until done. Voila — that’s it!

Iced coffee is a simple process. You’ll fill one of the tumblers with water to fill the water reservoir. Then, fill it with ice, fill the filter basket with two scoops of grounds (Amazon's Donut Cafe Columbian coffee matches the aesthetic), and brew “OVER ICE.” Hot coffee is similarly simple. You’ll fill the water reservoir with your desired amount of water for coffee. Scoop in the corresponding amount of grounds (which is on the scoop for easy reference!), and hit “HOT BREW.” Done and done.

How to clean the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender

The blender jar, filter basket, and reusable filter are all dishwasher safe on the top rack, which makes cleaning this coffee maker super easy. Make sure they’re secure so they don’t slip off the top rack, which could lead to damage if they make it to the bottom of the dishwasher. The rest of the frappe maker should be wiped down with a wet microfiber cloth (I buy Amazon Basics) and mild detergent (such as this Whole Foods 365 unscented dish soap) when needed, which may be often, given this machine can be messy.

There isn't any mention of descaling, but if it gets a little funky, Real Homes have shared their expert coffee maker cleaning hacks, including cleaning a coffee maker with white vinegar and how to clean a coffee maker with baking soda. You can grab a box of Arm & Hammer, or a bottle of Heinz white vinegar cheaply on Amazon. 

Is the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender right for you?

If you truly love frappes and are eager to doctor up every drink with enough syrup and sugar to add flavor, then this machine is going to be incredibly convenient and easy to use. It gives you several options in one place, and it brews a solid cup of black coffee. This Monin 5-flavor syrup selection on Amazon is great for switching things up and making truly custom creations.

But, if you’re looking for a true coffeehouse alternative, you may be better off keeping cold brew coffee in the fridge (we've tested this KitchenAid KCM5912SX Cold Brew Coffee Maker on Amazon), and using your best blender with ice, instead. 

Good to know

Instructions
Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker and Blender comes with a detailed instruction guide that makes it incredibly simple to follow each step, but the yellow quick start guide and sticker on top of the lid are the easiest way to remind you how to use this coffee maker. Mr. Coffee makes the entire process intuitive. 

Warranty
A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Mr. Coffee single-serve frappe, iced, hot coffee maker, and blender.

Where to buy the Mr. Coffee Single-Serve Frappe Maker and Blender

 The Mr. Coffee® Single-Serve Frappe™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker and Blender is available to buy directly from the retailer, via their Amazon storefront, or through retailers like Target. 

How we test coffee makers

We have a set process for how we test coffee makers at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the coffee maker.

The Mr. Coffee® Single-Serve Frappe™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker and Blender was sent to me by Mr. Coffee, and I tested it out daily for two weeks before writing this review. I tried all of the different brewing methods, though my favorite was definitely the concentrated brew + latte or cappuccino froth (depending on my mood!). I just made one before sitting down to write this.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill and whether it’s easy to clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Mr. Coffee® 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker, I observed how well all of the different brew options worked and whether the blender did its job.

I had no idea that the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Coffee Maker was going to come in and completely turn my world upside down. For years, I’ve sworn by an espresso maker to get through my mornings, with the creamy sweetness of a latte my chosen way to caffeinate. That meant investing in a pricey espresso maker, buying and correctly grinding the right coffee beans freshly every morning, making the espresso and frothing the milk to the right velvety texture. It’s an active, involved process.

This Mr. Coffee latte and coffee maker does it all — brews hot, iced or concentrated coffee for lattes and cappuccinos, and makes it incredibly easy. Touch-of-a-button-easy. I’d always thought of Mr. Coffee as a mainstay in the coffee maker world, a brand that’s been around forever. I knew it was reliable, simple, and got the job done. But would it make delicious lattes and specialty drinks? Well, as it turns out, yes. Yes, it does.

This coffee maker walks you through the process each time with easy-to-read measurements and a touch panel that lights up the option you select. It’s nearly impossible to make the wrong drink. Within just a few minutes, you’ll have a beverage that’s as good as any you’ll get at a coffee shop, thanks to a milk frother that automatically whips up hot froth or cold foam.

Plus, this Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker takes up the same amount of space as any normal small coffee maker. It’s a multi-functional companion for your mornings that will replace your pricey espresso maker in no time. 

Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 single-serve coffee maker review

What I thought of the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

I’ll be honest, I went into testing the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker expecting a good, but basic cup of coffee. I was excited about the built-in milk frother, but I imagined it would essentially make coffee with frothed milk which, for latte enthusiasts, you know is not the same as a latte. Regular black coffee can’t stand up to frothed milk, and you end up with something that tastes watered down and underwhelming.

But Mr. Coffee was never letting that happen. By creating an option to brew a hot coffee concentrate, they dodged the curse of the lackluster latte. The hot coffee concentrate is the perfect foundation for two different types of frothed milk — latte or cappuccino. The froth for the cappuccino is lighter and airier, while the latte is steamed with a bit of froth. This is what gives you barista-level skills with the ease of a touch screen — and it’s why I can already tell you this might be the best coffee maker I’ve tried all year.

Testing the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker Specifications

• Model name: Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker
• Dimensions (in.): H13.2 x W10.3 x L9.3  
• Weight of machine: 5.3 lb.
• Water capacity: 16 fl. oz.
• Wattage: 900 watts
• Cord length (in.): 26 inches
• Other accessories included: 1 x  Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Tumbler, 22 Oz., with Lid and Straw (rated one of the best iced coffee cups in our guide)

Unboxing and setting up the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

I always appreciate a coffee maker that comes with minimal packaging. I don’t want to spend an hour sorting through layers of cardboard and styrofoam, or peeling off plastic. Luckily, this single-serve coffee maker comes securely packaged in a corrugated cardboard nest and with a single layer of plastic to protect it from scratches in transit. It took just a couple of minutes to unbox it, peel off the plastic, and remove plastic stickers on the machine. Super easy.

Setup was simple. The scoop pops into the storage (love this detail!), and you’ll notice there’s a small end for hot drinks and a large end for ice. The drip tray and cover fit right in. Then there’s the mini brewing basket, reusable filter, milk frother and lid. Just a few parts that will get the job done.

Before using, Mr. Coffee recommends you wash the frother jar, whisk, lid, tumbler, tumbler lid and straw, along with the reusable coffee filter, coffee ground scoop, and brew basket. Use mild dish soap (I like the unscented Whole Foods Market detergent on Amazon) and water, then rinse and dry. Next, fill the reservoir to the water line and put the tumbler in place. With the brew basket and reusable filter also situated, run one cycle to rinse the machine. Now you’re ready to brew.

Using the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

As soon as I set up the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Coffee Maker, I jumped right into making a latte (of course). I filled it up to the 4 oz. line for a concentrated shot of coffee and used the hot end of the scoop to add 1.5 scoops of coffee to the reusable filter. 

I used the already grounded  holiday blend from Free Rein Coffee Company which felt like a luxury. I then made sure the shower head was over the basket, put my mug on the tray, and hit “hot brew”.

While my coffee was brewing, I filled the frothing jar to the latte line, put the lid on, and hit “Hot Latte”. The froth does take longer than my similar freestanding frother, but it whips that milk up into the most delicious, fluffy foam, which pours easily thanks to a spout on the frothing jar, which my expensive standalone frother does not have. 

Making a cappucinno

On my next drink, which may or may not have been just an hour later, I tried the same routine, but I filled it to the cappuccino line and hit “Hot Capp”. This makes for a slightly foamier texture — think the same light, airy look of a bubble bath.

Making black coffee

To do a straight black coffee hot brew — it’s super easy. You can make up to 16 oz, and just follow the instructions on how much coffee to scoop into the basket before brewing. 

Making iced coffee

Now, this is where things get interesting — you can also make iced coffee with the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Coffee Maker. I’m always a little unsure about those so-called best iced coffee makers — but this one gets it right. 

How? By telling you to use so much coffee that it can’t end up watered down. The iced side of the coffee scoop is larger, and they advise using 1-2 scoops. Go for two. Then, use the provided tumbler, filled with ice cubes, and hit brew “Over Ice”. This brewing takes 3-4 minutes, but then you have a rich cup of iced coffee.

But here’s the best part. You can turn it into a latte with cold foam. Just fill the milk frother and press “Cold Foam” instead of “Hot Latte”. You’ve now unlocked all the iced lattes you could ever want.

Also, I love that the manual explained how different types of milk froth. They boast that the frother will froth all milks, including plant-based alternatives, which I can confirm. Whole milk is best, but reduced-fat milk will create a lighter foam. Oat milk will froth depending on the brand (Califia Farms on Amazon works well for me), and almond milk will dissipate quickly, which is I avoid it. I will note that I tried to add a bit of an almond milk-flavored creamer to my reduced-fat milk before I frothed, and that did not froth and fell totally flat. 

The only downside I found with this appliance is the coffee does splatter quite a bit. Even when I used a tall mug, there were still splatters surrounding the back and drip tray. But it’s nothing a wet cloth can’t quickly get rid of.

Cleaning and maintaining the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

To clean the coffee maker, you can conveniently put several parts in the top rack of the dishwasher. The reusable coffee filter, brew basket, milk frothing whisk, jar and lid can all go in there, though make sure they’re positioned so they don’t slip off the top rack. The water reservoir and exterior can be wiped out with a damp cloth and mild detergent when needed.

Make sure you clean the frothing lid after every use. This has to stay sparkling clean to continue to effectively froth milk. Like all small kitchen appliances that make Joe, this coffee maker should be descaled every few months, depending on usage. Thankfully, we've already got a guide on the coffee maker cleaning hacks.

Is the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker right for you?

If you love specialty latte and cappuccino drinks but don’t want to drop $500 or more on a premium espresso maker, or cough up $5 for your favorite brew at the local coffee shop, then the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Coffee Maker is the one for you.

It’s affordable at $149.99 and so easy to use that even the most beginner of baristas can make a deliciously creamy coffee. Plus, it’s a hands-off process, so you won’t need to monitor the milk as it froths, or check whether espresso grounds are tamped correctly as you would with a bean-to-cup coffee maker. 

All you do is make one measurement for the coffee and then tap a button. It doesn’t get more simple or budget-friendly than this. However, it isn't a cold brew maker, so if you're looking for cold-water-extracted coffee, you'll need to shop for something else.

Not quite what you're looking for? These options might suit you better.

Good to know

Instructions
The Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker comes with an instruction guide to walk you through each brewing process. There’s also a yellow quick start guide that shows a simplistic version, as well as a sticker on the top that has the same info. You can, like me, leave this on there for guests to help themselves with ease.

Warranty
A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker.

Where to buy the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker

The Mr. Coffee® 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker is available to buy directly from the retailer, via its Amazon storefront, or through retailers like Target. 

How we test coffee makers

We have a set process for testing coffee makers at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we test, we match the reviewer with the coffee maker.

The Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker was sent to me by Mr. Coffee, and I tested it out daily for two weeks before writing this review. I tried all of the different brewing methods, though my favorite was definitely the concentrated brew, and latte or cappuccino froth depending on my mood. I just made one before sitting down to write this.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

Water tank: I assess whether it’s easy to fill and clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it easy to understand what is happening?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Mr. Coffee 4-in-1 Single-Serve Latte™, Iced, and Hot Coffee Maker, I observed how well all of the different brew options worked and whether the milk frother stood up to other frothers I have tried.

The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew Coffee Maker might not offer the same bells and whistles as some of today’s more advanced machines, but it still holds a special place in my heart. 

This teeny appliance might look quaint and adorable, but it still takes its job seriously, delivering your daily dose of caffeine without any fuss. I absolutely have to have a cup of hot coffee to start my day (otherwise, my brain is effectively mush).

Thankfully, this small coffee maker was up to the task. It brews just the right amount of coffee for two people — perfect for me and my partner — and the best part is that it takes up minimal room on my overly crowded kitchen counter. If you want the deets on what it’s like to use this inexpensive coffee maker, here’s everything I learned while testing it for two weeks. 

Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew Coffee Maker review

Cyber Week deal

Testing the Mr. Coffee Mini Brew Coffee Maker

What I thought of the Mr. Coffee Mini Brew Coffee Maker

If you have limited space in your kitchen, the Mr. Coffee Mini Brew Coffee Maker is as compact as they come. It’s super lightweight — we’re talking just three pounds — and can easily be tucked into a corner. I can see it being a handy appliance for a small apartment or even a dorm room! 

Aside from its small form, this coffee maker is also incredibly easy to use. It has just one button — an on/off switch — and there are no complicated settings that you have to muck around with. While it’s undeniably basic, I was still impressed with the taste of the coffee. It was flavorful without being bitter, and it tasted just as good as the coffee that my regular drip filter coffee maker makes. 

Mr. Coffee 5-cup mini brew coffee maker specifications

• Dimensions (in.): H10 x W6.4 x L8.8
• Weight (lbs): 3.15 pounds
• Capacity (fl oz): 25 fluid ounces
• Wattage: 3.3 watts
• Cord length (in): 24 inches
• Colors: White or black
• Warranty: 1 year

Unboxing and setting up the Mr. Coffee 5-cup mini brew coffee maker

The Mr. Coffee Mini Brew Coffee Maker arrived in a small box, so right away, I knew it was going to be a compact appliance. Still, I was a bit surprised at just how small the machine is — it’s maybe a quarter of the size of my usual drip coffee machine, which is admittedly a bit of a behemoth. The Mr. Coffee unit is also extremely lightweight, and I could easily carry it around with one hand. 

The machine comes with a cute glass carafe, and the rest of the appliance is made from black plastic. Overall, it’s a very basic, no-frills design, but that suits my needs just fine — I was more concerned about whether it would make good coffee. (Spoiler alert: It did!)

Using the Mr. Coffee 5-cup mini brew coffee maker

It’s very easy to use this coffee maker. I started by filling up the water tank, which is located at the back of the unit. 

Because the tank doesn’t come off the appliance, I had to carry water from the sink using a measuring cup, which was a little inconvenient. However, the good news is that I only needed about 25 ounces (a little over three cups) of water, so it didn’t take too many trips.

There’s a little window on the side of the machine that lets you see how much water you’ve put into the tank, so you know when to stop filling. 

From there, I loaded up the basket with coffee. The brew basket (which comes out for easy cleaning) is designed to be used with 4-6 cup basket-style filters (not included but available on Amazon), but I only had cone filters handy. Luckily, I was able to squish the bottom of the filter to fit into the coffee maker’s basket, and I then filled it with five scoops of my favorite ground coffee from Starbucks (available on Amazon).

Once that was done, all that was left to do was flip the power button! The little toggle-style button turns green to let you know it’s on, and the machine gets to work brewing coffee. It took around 5-6 minutes for the unit to brew a full carafe, and it did get quite noisy toward the end — the bubbling noise was so loud that my dogs were startled the first time and ran around the house barking. Oops!

The full carafe of coffee (roughly 25 ounces) was just the right amount for me and my partner in the morning. We were both able to have our usual 10-ounce cups, and I like how easy it is to pour out of the machine’s glass carafe. I take my coffee with half-and-half and sugar, and it tasted great — just like the coffee from my usual drip machine, which is notably more expensive than the Mr. Coffee model. The coffee maker does have a heating plate under the carafe to keep your coffee warm, but we never needed to use it, as we typically drank the whole pot. 

We continued to use the Mr. Coffee Mini Brew Coffee Maker each morning over the course of two weeks, and overall, its performance was consistent and the coffee was great! 

Cleaning the Mr. Coffee 5-cup mini brew coffee maker

Because this coffee maker is so basic, it’s a breeze to clean. After making a pot of coffee, all you have to do is throw away the filter and used grounds and wash out the carafe. Alternatively, use the spent coffee to clean your kitchen, or if you're lucky enough to have an outdoor space, use coffee grounds in your garden projects. 

That’s really all that’s required for daily maintenance — easy! The carafe and brew basket are also dishwasher-safe if you want a deeper clean, but I found it was easier to just wash them quickly by hand with a little dish soap and warm water. Whole Foods unscented detergent is under $3 on Amazon if you're worried about fragranced washing-up liquid tainting the taste of your coffee.

In terms of other maintenance, the brand recommends cleaning your coffee maker once a month, as it doesn’t have any type of filter to prevent mineral deposits from building up. To do this, it’s just a matter of running white vinegar (available on Amazon) through the machine and letting it sit for 30 minutes. We've got a whole guide on how to clean a coffee maker with vinegar if you're a little unsure how to do this. After that, you can run clean water through the machine a few times to get rid of any lingering residue. 

The brand has also provided this helpful video on YouTube if you prefer to watch video tutorials.  

Is the Mr. Coffee 5-cup mini brew coffee maker right for you?

If you’re looking for a small coffee maker, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew is a basic, budget-friendly option. It’s super affordable at just $25, and its compact size is ideal for small apartments, dorm rooms, or even an RV or camper. At full capacity, it makes just enough coffee for two people, and despite being an inexpensive appliance, the coffee still tastes great. 

However, this machine is truly bare bones. It has a max capacity of 25 ounces and just a single operation button, so if you’re looking for something with bells and whistles, it might not be the best option for you.

We've put together three options for you to explore, based on taste, size, and, features. 

Where to buy the Mr. Coffee 5-cup mini brew coffee maker

Our built-in widget does the hard work for you to list out where you can purchase the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup mini brew coffee maker. However, if you'd prefer to click some good old-fashioned links, you can buy this coffee-making machine from Ace Hardware, Amazon, Meijer,  Target, Walmart, and, Wayfair.

How we test coffee makers

In line with Real Homes' coffee maker testing brief, I tested the machine for a couple of weeks, focusing on the following criteria, and asking myself these questions:

Packaging: How well are the machine and accessories protected in transit? Do the parts come wrapped in unnecessary amounts of plastic?

Weight: How easy is it to carry from my front door to the kitchen?

Setup: How easy is it to assemble the machine (if applicable) and make a coffee? How long does this process take? Does it require instructions?

Brew quality and grind: Here, I make each drink and assess the strength, extraction, and time it takes to make each drink.

Noise levels: Is this machine quiet enough to make coffee in the morning, without disturbing co-habitants (including pets), and neighbors?

Size: Can the machine be used in a small kitchen? How tall is the machine and is there adequate counter clearance for it to sit underneath cupboards?

Features: Are the programmable settings helpful?

Cleaning: How easy is it to maintain this machine? Are coffee stains wipeable? Can the drip tray and waste bin be removed? Which parts are hand-washable or dishwasher-safe? How easy is it to descale this coffee maker?

Jessica Alba's Nespresso Vertuo must give the actress and entrepreneur a pep in her step in the wee hours of the morning. Like the star, we could also benefit from a caffeine jolt every now and then.

Whether we're working from home or on the way to the office, a cup of Joe is not suggested, it's downright necessary. 

We spotted one of the best small coffee makers in the Good Luck Chuck actor's home, proving even A-listers are partial to a capsule coffee.

Jessica Alba's Nespresso Vertuo

As evidenced on Instagram, Alba begins her day with a workout, followed by a cup of the good stuff, and topped off with a face mask. But we'll admit, our favorite part of her routine is putting one of the best pod coffee makers to good use. 

Real Homes' staff writer, Beth Mahoney, who uses this single-serve coffee maker insists the machine is a game-changer. Not only does this Nespresso coffee maker quality rival your neighborhood coffee shop, but the machine is compact, cute, and ideal for anyone looking for smart ways to maximize countertop space in a small kitchen.

"What’s great about the Nespresso Vuerto is how easy it is to use," Beth says. "All you have to do is fill up the water tank, pop a capsule inside, and press a button. Plus, it heats up quickly, meaning there’s no need to wait around before you can enjoy your coffee. It has a diverse range of coffee options, sizes, strengths, and styles, and even has cold brew pods to choose from."

What's more, the machine doubles up as a coffee and espresso maker, so you're able to switch things up at a moment's notice. And the taste is superb, garnering 4.6/5 stars from Amazon shoppers.

However, do keep in mind Nespresso pods have to be ordered online — we've checked where to buy Nespresso pods online — but it's definitely worth the wait.  A milk frother is not available on this particular model, but you can upgrade and order a Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with milk frother on Amazon. 

Other Nespresso models

Like what you see, but not quite convinced this is the best coffee maker for you? Not a problem. Fortunately, Nespresso has plenty of other goodies for all types of caffeine aficionados that might better suit your needs. 

Our review of The Nespresso Vertuo Plus found the machine is a perfect coffee maker for those who want a quality investment, love foamy coffee and don't mind spending a little more on their coffee pods. Plus, our review of the Nespresso Pop coffee maker found it's a budget device that over-delivers for the price — with great color options to boot.

Prices were correct at the time of publication. 

What you need to know

It may seem like a simple cup of Joe, but there are a lot of components to take into consideration before splurging on a coffee machine. There are 11 things our reviewer wished she knew about small coffee makers before committing to one. Should you be curious about what goes into our process, we've broken down how we test coffee makers. 

So, you've found yourself a new coffee machine. Lovely! We hope you're enjoying your fresh cups of Java every morning before team meetings. Make sure to learn how to clean a coffee maker so that your cups stay fresh. While you're at it, avoid coffee maker cleaning mistakes at all costs.

Jennifer Lopez’s Keurig coffee maker wasn’t what I expected to be lusting over when scrolling through her Instagram feed, but here I am. Usually, it’s her incredible outfits or dancing skills that fill me with envy — but luckily, her coffee maker is more attainable, and at an incredible price right now.

She's a singer known for hits such as Let’s Get Loud and acts too, starring in Hustlers, Shotgun Wedding, and The Mother. She's a queen at everything — so I’m not surprised she knows how to pick great coffee makers, too.

In one of Jennifer's recent Instagram posts, she showed us how to make Bella Berry Punch in her gorgeous modern kitchen. While drooling over the delicious cocktail recipe, we were excited to spot the Keurig coffee maker in the background. 

Real Homes' resident coffee expert tracked it down and let me tell you: she delivered. Not only that, but it’s on sale right now so you can sip on the same coffee as Jenny From the Block without splashing out Hollywood-level cash.

Jennifer Lopez’s Keurig coffee machine

More about Jennifer Lopez's Keurig coffee maker

Drum roll please: Jennifer Lopez’ coffee maker is the Keurig K-Café Single Serve Coffee Latte & Cappuccino Maker. the ever-popular Keurig coffee makers are known for being easy to use — no barista experience required. 

This model is one of the best pod coffee makers, transforming milky drinks with its frother. On the Keurig site it’s on sale, where you can save a $35 on it right now.

While we haven’t tested this exact model ourselves, we have tried and tested numerous Keurig coffee makers in the past, so we know what makes them so brilliant. 

“She might be a famous singer and actress, but by owning this Keurig small coffee maker, the singer/actress has shown she's relatable,” says our head e-commerce editor and coffee expert Christina Chrysostomou. "This is because they’re easy to use, and aren’t too pricey."

Christina says that there’s a lot to love about Keurig coffee makers in general. 

“They're affordable, easy to use, plus you've got access to over 400 varieties and over 60 brands of coffee with new partnership opportunities popping up all the time,” she explains. “This particular model can make coffees, lattes, and cappuccinos, and what I love most is that it's got a dishwasher-safe milk frother.” 

Basically, this makes cleaning it a total breeze. 

Whether you have a busy schedule like J. Lo or just want a delicious coffee shop style, the Keurig K-Café Single Serve Coffee Latte & Cappuccino Maker is the perfect choice for those who love a frothy coffee and the ease of using a single-serve coffee maker.

Three alternatives to Jennifer Lopez’s coffee machine

J.Lo’s coffee maker is a great price, but you might be looking for a different brand, type of coffee machine, and even a different size. Here are three alternatives that may tick your boxes instead. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Jennifer Lopez’s Keurig coffee maker is a brilliant choice for anyone looking for a machine that’s affordable and makes cups that will rival your fave coffee shop. She’s not the only celeb with good taste in coffee machines, though — Vanessa Hudgens’ De’Longhi is barista-approved and one of the best you can get. 

Buying a coffee maker was a game-changer for me, especially since a morning cup of Joe feels as vital as my daily multivitamin.

Whilst testing coffee makers and other small kitchen appliances was my job, even I made mistakes when picking, using and maintaining my coffee maker so I've put together this guide to share the 10 things coffee afficionados need to know before taking the plunge for a home coffee-making setup.

If you're searching for the perfect best coffee maker, keep these helpful tidbits in mind and avoid the pitfalls I stumbled into.

Before buying a small coffee maker, consider these tips

When looking for a small coffee maker, there's a lot to choose from. Will a pod coffee maker suit your taste, or are you better off with a single-serve coffee maker? 

What I've learned over the years, both as an in-house appliance tester at Real Homes and a coffee-addict, will help nail down the 10 things you need to know before buying a coffee maker.

1. The color counts

Coffee makers take up valuable kitchen counter space, and will usually remain out for daily use. If you're going to take the plunge, pick one that not only has the functions you want (more on that later), but one that matches or complements your kitchen's aesthetic. You'll thank me for this later!

Luckily, there are many coffee maker offerings on the market, with many running flash or seasonal sales (our monthly coffee maker sale round-up is handy if a small budget is a big factor) and often, each model will come in multiple hues to suit every taste. From classic silver or black, to a range of pastel or jewel hues, whatever machine you pick, definitely choose a color you love. 

If our Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker review isn't proof that looks matter, we're not sure what will convince you otherwise. Color selections, like Thyme, from Drew's range, are very intentional, say interior designers and can be used as as stylish focal point in your space.

"Dark green, as seen in Drew Barrymore’s kitchenware, brings a grounded elegance to kitchens," says interior design expert Artem Kropovinsky. "Pair it with muted gold hardware in your kitchen for a touch of opulence. Incorporate earth-toned ceramics nearby to balance the depth of the green. And, for a modern twist, mix it up with pale wooden textures and white countertops."

The material of the item matters too. Consider if the appliance's material is easy to clean, easily scratched or scuff (kitchens are super busy, after all), and will it make the rest of the kitchen look glam, or gross? 

If you sneak a peek at my De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker review, you'll see how closely the sand beige hue matches my fridge panel and that was not by accident!

2. Size matters

Size matters, especially if you're looking to maximize counter top space in a small kitchen. Save yourself the hassle of a return by measuring the dimensions of your counter and the space between your cupboard before you get busy shopping to see what you'll need for the machine itself and the coffee it'll brew. 

Don't forget to consider any clearance above or around machine you might need, as many will require regular water top ups or pod placement on top. 

If you're super tight on space, the Nespresso Essenza Mini we reviewed is the tiniest machine the brand offers and suitable for most small spaces. You can also style a beautiful little bar cart as a make shift coffee station you move in and out of your way as needed.  

3. Machines are customizable

Gone are the days when you had to either settle for the basics, or choose between one type of coffee maker or another. Sure, the simple start-and-stop mechanism was a unique selling point in our Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Plus review. 

But if you're on the hunt for the best coffee produced by a pod machine, we enjoyed the 10 brewing options during testing and review of the Morning Machine. For a machine that can do just about anything check out this Terra Kaffe TK-02 automatic espresso machine

You can opt for something low-key, or customize your preferences with helpful features (for example the Nespreso Vertuo Next we tested is Wi-Fi compatible). The coffee-making process can be as simple or intricate as you'd like it to be. 

4. Some coffee makers come with credentials

Unbeknownst to some, the Speciality Coffee Association (SCA) has requirements for brewed coffee quality based on factors such as proper water temperature and brewing time that determine whether or not a machine has met the proper standards. 

Is your prospective machine SCA certified? If not, it's important to see what factors prevented it from reaching this status — and how that will affect your morning cup of Joe. 

It's no biggie to most people, but it's definitely something that stood out in our Technivorm Moccamaster review, Oxo Brew 8-cup coffee maker test, and Zwilling Enfinigy drip coffee maker write-up. 

5. Coffee variety might be limited

A large cup of Joe from your local coffee shop will cost around $5, and more if you fancy a little extra syrup, whip, or want to upgrade to the guest blend. 

Making coffee at home will cost significantly less, even if it means putting in a little bit more elbow grease in your kitchen. Replacing that daily $5 store-bought cup of coffee with a bag of beans or K-cups will be more economical, but there are still costs to keep in mind. 

For example, Nespresso Vertuo makers are bar-coded, which means you're not able to buy alternatives for the machine. Are you willing to stick to one brand, or do you want to venture out of your comfort zone and try new things from time to time?

According to Millie Fender, an appliance expert and our former head of reviews,  buying a machine might mean you have end up having to stick to one coffee brand. She says, "Don't just look at the machine itself, take a look at the range of pods available and see if they sound like drinks you'd like."

If you like to be able to use a few, the best Keurig coffee makers sport more compatibility. 

Amazon coffee pods available offer a lot in the way of diversity if you like to taste test. This is where to buy Nespresso pods when you'd rather stay comfy at home than shop for groceries. 

6. You'll need to commit to cleaning it

Whether you're grabbing a coffee to pop in your travel mug for a long commute, or you're zipping into the kitchen between meetings, your coffee maker needs to be fresh and ready for action to make sure it tastes as good as possible, and to avoid any mold or grime build-up.

Luckily, you can clean your coffee maker with vinegar pretty easily.

Giving it a rinse through when you first unbox it is a must, too. New coffee makers, though they look spic and span, will usually need a good rinse or clean cycle run through it before first use. For what it's worth, this is what happens when you don't clean your coffee machine.

No matter what you opt for, you're going to have to learn how to descale a coffee maker and discern how often your machine requires a little TLC, lest you'd like to sip on some pretty gross java. 

As Chris Clark, founder of Brew Coffee At Home, previously told Real Homes, the signs it's time to descale your coffee maker include less coffee brewed than expected, leaks, your drink tastes bad or metallic, and it takes longer to brew.

Some machines will require a descaling solution, others allow you to use distilled white wine vinegar to get rid of the gross stuff so if you have a preference, read the instructions on cleaning and descaling before you buy it. Most retailers have their product instructions and manual's online for free.

7. The crema might not be real

For some coffee connoisseurs, the small details matter, including the crema. This is the light, frothy part of an espresso that we find at the top of the cup. According to Rachel Thomas, coffee expert at KitchenAid, this sensation happens when hot water is forced through the coffee grounds at high pressure, which ultimately emulsifies the oil of the coffee bean and produces tiny bubbles. 

As demonstrated in our Nespresso Pixie espresso maker review, small coffee makers do give consumers the option to froth themselves — but this particular machine is artificially spun. Does it make a difference? In my opinion, it does. That's not to say that you should be deterred from buying one of the best Nespresso coffee makers.

Overall, be prepared for home-brewed crema to look and taste a bit different to what you'd get in a coffee-shop.

8. There will be noise

Is this machine quiet — like whisper quiet — or is it a bit louder, perhaps what you'd expect when having a conversation? Or, is it so loud that you are going to disrupt not only your whole house but perhaps even your entire neighborhood? 

Don't be *that* neighbor at 6am. 

Usually, manufacturers will list the noise levels in decibels. This decibel level chart by Yale University is a good resource to refer to. Ideally, if you want to stay pals with the people next door, anything above 75 dB (imagine standing next to a piano or having to raise your voice to be heard) should be a no go. 

If you are concerned about excessive volume, my advice is to compare something like an Aeropress vs. French Press as these coffee makers are not only quiet but are also easy to transport.

9. You'll need to regularly dispose of pods or coffee

Although some brands are built with sustainability in mind, getting rid of their coffee remnants can be a challenge. Check whether your intended coffee maker's trash Can can go with regular recycling, or will it require a little extra work? 

For example, for a number of years, 100% of Keurig K-Cup pods have been recyclable, as they're made from recyclable polypropylene (#5 plastic). 

Though polypropylene is accepted throughout the country, that doesn't mean all facilities will accept used K-Cups, so you'll have to venture over to sources like BeRecycled.org to see what is permitted in your area.

10. Not all coffee makers are quick to use

Sometimes we can get a coffee within minutes with a K-Cup. However, other machines might be a tad more complex, as I learned when reviewing the Morning Machine coffee maker. 

Though the results are worth it, sifting through 10 brewing modes on an OLED screen for a cup of Joe might be too much for someone who just wants to make it to work by 9am. 

Consider complexity of machinery and how long you have to whip up your morning brew when buying a coffee maker for use at home.

Meet our experts

So hopefully by now, you're equipped with enough knowledge to buy a compact coffee maker confidently. Next on your to-do list might be to upgrade your drink vessels. These $17 Kourtney Kardashian coffee mugs look stylish and won't burn your hands either.  

When looking through her Insta stories, Vanessa Hudgens’ De'Longhi coffee maker was not the thing that I expected to catch my eye. Usually, it’s her fabulous outfits or her gorgeous hairstyles that have me frantically searching how to get her look, but this time it’s her stunning luxury coffee machine.

The actor is known for her breakout role in the High School Musical series, as well as starring in the Christmas film franchise The Princess Switch and the musical film Tick, Tick, Boom. She has 51.1 million followers on Instagram alone and is also known for serving high-fashion looks on the red carpet.

As well as this, she’s the co-founder of the drinks brand Caliwater (yes, her talents seem to go no bounds!). In an Instagram reel for the company, she can be seen taking a delicious can of it out of the fridge — but it’s the luxe coffee maker on her countertop that has me drooling. If you want to know the exact model it is, you can bet that I’ve found what it is.

Vanessa Hudgens’ De'Longhi coffee maker revealed

Why Vanessa Hudgens' coffee maker is one of the best out there

Ready to work this out? I’ve hunted down the exact bean-to-cup coffee maker that Vanessa has, plus spoken to our in-house experts who have tried the machine about what makes it so great and why they love the brand. Spoiler alert: You’re going to want your own bougie espresso coffee maker after learning all about it.

The coffee maker that Vanessa Hudgens has in her kitchen is the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro. While the Real Homes testing team hasn’t tried this model due to its large size and high price tag (we specialize in smaller coffee makers), our sister brand Homes and Gardens has. “As a former barista, the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro speaks my language,” says Laura Honey, ecommerce editor at Homes and Gardens. 

Having tried it herself, she confirms that it has all the technology to create the perfect coffee: consistent grinding, auto-tamping, and impressive milk texturing. “While this sounds highly technical, the machine deals with all the coffee geekery and talks you through the whole process, so I think even a beginner could jump into using La Specialista,” Honey explains. This is brilliant news for those of us who love the taste of store-bought coffee, but don’t have the know-how to make one ourselves. 

Our head of ecommerce and coffee expert Christina Chrysostomou agrees that it’s a machine that’s a great entry point for those wanting a sophisticated coffee. “This model has all the features you'd expect from a professional machine you'd see at a coffeehouse,” she says.  

However, she explains that the smart tamping, pre-infusion, and auto milk frothing functions mean that it's not going to intimidate someone who is buying their first ‘proper’ appliance. Though marketed as an espresso maker, the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro does so much more, including americanos, cappuccinos, and cold brews.

If you grab one and get used to using it you've had a bit more coffee-making experience, Chrysostomou highly recommends experimenting with the coffee strength settings. “Aesthetically, I like the combination of the modern LED interface, with knobs and buttons that allow you to have that quintessential, hands-on barista experience,” she adds. 

Honey also loves how much of a statement this makes on the countertop. “It’s a substantial machine and, if your kitchen is up to it, the La Specialista will look beautiful and elicit comments and admiration from every visitor.” 

However, if you’re short on space or shopping on a budget, she does say this isn’t the one for you, as it won't maximize space on your countertop. Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly small coffee makers that might work better in your space.

Three budget-friendly bean-to-cup espresso machines

Want to get the look of Vanessa’s machine, without spending too many dollars and taking up too much of your countertop space? While bean-to-cup coffee makers aren’t known for being super cheap, these alternatives are all a lot less expensive than the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Vanessa’s coffee machine is absolutely a top choice for those wanting barista-style coffee. That being said, choosing the right coffee machine should always come down to what’s personally going to work for your lifestyle and your kitchen.

Want even more celeb home inspo? It turns out that Vanessa isn’t the only HSM star with a stylish cooking area. Ashley Tisdale’s dark green kitchen is absolutely fabulous, according to design experts.

Wondering how we test coffee makers, and why our reviews are incredibly in-depth? Well, research has shown that 7 in 10 Americans drink coffee every single day. But the quality consumed, and how your beverage is made varies substantially. From instant freeze-dried preparations to pods, grounds, and even coffee bags we all have our own methods and machines we prefer.

We've been reviewing coffee makers both at home and in our dedicated testing lab for nearly five years now, and as a result, we've landed on our top favorites. That's not to say that this will never change, of course. We also review brand-new coffee makers, as they are released or sometimes just before. Either way: we will always have hands-on experience with a machine before we recommend it. All of our coffee maker reviews are conducted either by team members or in the case that we have no more space left on our kitchen worktops, by a contributing editor that we trust. Whilst thinking about who is the best person to test which coffee maker, we always consider their living situation too.

This means that the best coffee makers we can recommend have been put through their paces to check that they can cope everywhere from a busy family home to a single household with a tiny kitchen and every other situation in between. We always try to use these coffee makers for at least a month before coming to a decision, and in some cases, we might review them or have two (or more) going at one time, as this makes it easier to compare different models for our key criteria. 

How we test coffee makers — our methodology

Coffee maker experts

We use a rigorous five-stage process to become a Customer Advisor. Customer Advisors are proven experts, with hands-on, long-term experience of industry-leading products and the ability to compare between major brands to help you make the best choices for your home. Our acting head of ecommerce, Christina Chrysostomou, is our current in-house coffee maker Customer Advisor. 

The process is as follows:

1. Home user: We own a market-leading option, and use it in our home or garden on a regular basis. This means we see how the top products hold up over time, and compare new releases to our top choice. 
2. Industry expert: We know the market leaders, and stay up to date on their latest releases to make sure we're always in the know. 
3. Behind the scenes: We've been to a factory or showroom to see how products are made and experienced the behind-the-scenes of how new products are tested and developed. 
4. Technical know-how: It's one thing to test a product, but the key to being a customer advisor is knowing how it works. We understand the inner workings of a product and can explain exactly what makes it satisfactory (or unsatisfactory). 
5. Reader awareness: We answer to our readers. Ask us questions, request new product releases, or just let us know what your favorite products are! We want to understand how you shop so we can help with your purchasing decision.

How we test coffee makers

While coffee makers have been around for years, for a lot of people, making the switch from instant or shopbought is a first. This is why we make sure to include plenty of photos of our testing process and advise how to get the most out of each product when we review them.

We do like to add some objective measures to our reviews, tracking how long it takes to prepare coffee menu items, and measuring noise levels to ensure they are suitable for morning and evening use (homemade espresso martinis are a Real Homes favorite).

Even the most outstanding small coffee maker might not be the right fit for your kitchen or lifestyle, which is why we always test these in our own home, to help you decide if a product is right for yours. This enables us to figure out how a product slots into day-to-day life, for example, how easy a coffee maker is to clean, if the beverage-making process is messy, or if a pod coffee maker isn't the most sustainable option.

How we decide which products to review

Our reviews are always completely impartial and never paid for. Brands will often send us coffee maker free of charge to give us the opportunity to review them. We are often allowed to keep them, which means we can add to our reviews over the months (and even years!) to note how well the product has fared after consistent use. 

When we're not allowed to keep a product we try to hang onto it for at least three or four weeks to make sure that the product is put through its paces before we send it back to the company. This means we rarely miss a new launch and are constantly reviewing new coffee makers back-to-back, throughout the day.

Some brands are trickier to get hold of than others, but we're always striving to include as many different products as possible, with different price points and designs to suit any space or budget. We're genuine coffee maker enthusiasts, so if someone launches a new product with an interesting feature, we'll be first in line to try it out. You can find our 'Review in progress' badge on the models we are currently testing. 

Why we bother with unboxing

First impressions are everything — so how the coffee maker arrives is important to us. While things like a battered cardboard box can happen in transit, having something stable that you can carry home or get delivered without the packaging getting too damaged is essential.

Many of our Real Homes reviewers live and commute into the city, so we also have to think about lugging boxes on public transport. What's more, many of us rent apartments so more often than not have to shuffle stuff through lifts or carry these small kitchen appliances up sets of stairs.

We are all for sustainability packing too. So even if the coffee maker comes in 100 percent FSC cardboard — the box should be appropriately sized. Inside, some plastic is fine (for example plug protectors) but we would prefer it to be kept to a minimum. We'll always state where a product arrives with excess packaging that's harsh on the environment, as this is very important to us.

And, no one needs a forest's worth of instruction manuals and bits of paper, too, so where a PDF or page can be found online or kept to one sheet with a QR code, we're happy to scan this on our smartphone to find extra information.

Our standard testing procedures

Functionality tests

Coffee makers tend to (generally) fall into a number of camps: pod coffee makers and bean-to-cup coffee machines. When operating the former, you are instructed to insert a capsule and press a button that will pierce the cap to allow the grounds to mix with hot water. A fairly standardized process all in all. Whereas, with a whole bean machine, there is a bit more involvement around sourcing fresh beans, grinding them (and finding the right coarsity), and ensuring that the water temperature isn't too hot.

We don't have a bias on which is necessarily better as it all comes down to the overall experience. Yes, bean-to-cup brewers do have more buttons and settings, but most buyers consider it an art form that they can master with time and experience. And, most surprisingly, these days, even the simplest of machines are equipped with 19-bar extraction.

It's also worth noting that some coffee makers' settings that are supposed to simplify making a cup of Joe. Times, temps, and strengths may vary from model to model as the manufacturers may have taken into account the wattage and capacity of the device. Most coffee makers will have a shut-off mode which will automatically switch off the machine after a period of inactivity. This will ensure that you don't use any more power than you need.

Coffee making tests

When testing a coffee maker, our first step is to make a selection of standard drinks in the same cup / cup material. Depending on the cofee maker model, this may include:

• Espresso
• Americano
• Milk-based coffee drinks including cappuccino and latte

1. Making espresso

Short and simple, an espresso is the purist coffee drink on the menu and is the foundation or base that your beverage begins with. Typically, this uses around 0.84 fluid ounces of water to 0.24 ounces of freshly ground coffee (or its equivalent pod makeup).

In a pod machine, we expect this to take around two minutes (once you've popped the respective capsule into the appliance). But we don't just measure time as a gross metric. Here, we might see how long each model takes to heat water, and dispense coffee, and if it has a keep warm function, how long this stays active until the machine switches off.

Once prepared, we'll use a thermometer to test how hot the coffee is. Coffee that is extracted at too high a temperature will a) burn the user's mouth and b) taste bitter. On the contrary, water that doesn't reach a sweet spot between 149 – 160 degrees Fahrenheit might not produce adequate crema.

In terms of crema —  that is, the thin layer of small bubbles) that forms on the top coffee — we're aiming for a rusty-brown, tan leather hue, that has an oily viscosity and rich mouthfeel that gives the drink 'body'. And, though the contents of these pods can be up to a year old, you may notice the difference between fresh and stale products. It is worth noting at this point, however, that some models artificially create this crema. We have the experience to identify authentic foam that is produced when the water and oils emulsify. The biggest tell-tale sign is that a real 'head' typically lasts a lot longer.

2. Making Americano

An Americano (or Caffe Americano) is your typical black coffee made by lengthening a shot (or two) of espresso with hot water, with a typical 2:1 water-to-coffee ratio. For most coffee drinks, it tends to be more paletteable and drunk in 7–10 fluid-ounce servings. Milk can be added, but for testing, we tend to omit this ingredient so we can assess the strength of the coffee, identify any tasting notes and take note on the extraction process. Again, we're looking for a temperature that sits between 194-201°F and a lovely layer of caramel-colored, creamy-looking texture.

3. Making cappuccinos and caffe lattes

For milky coffee lovers, making a cap is one of their favorite tests to try out. The composition is based on thirds. A third espresso, a third steamed milk, and a third foamed milk. Depending on the device, we might test a prepared milk capsule, review the functionality of an automatic milk frother, or have a good at using a steam wand that typically sticks out on the side of the machine.

Cleaning tests

After we've made the coffee and assessed its functionality and features — it's time to clean the coffee maker. There are, of course, a few variables that might affect how easy or difficult this task is. So when getting rid of coffee grounds, oils, dried-on milk, and dirty water from the drip tray, we ask ourselves these questions:

• Are any of the parts dishwasher safe? If so, should it be placed on the top rack only?
• How easy is it to clean the outside of the coffee maker; can it be wiped with a cloth?
• How easy is it to clean the internal parts, including the filter and grinder?
• If the parts are not dishwasher safe, can they be hand-washed with dish soap?
• Does the coffee maker have any other accessories —  how do these scrub up?

Assessing value for money

We appreciate that our reader have different budgets, and will have different expectations from their machine. Generally speaking, the best coffee makers will last around five years and will have a warranty attached to them (that you'll often need to register for). But, if we suspect that the machine will break in the near future, or has design flaws — we will tell you.

Conversely, if we review a product that is affordable and performs well, we will look for the best deals for you to get it at the most competitive price (especially during peak shopping periods like Black Friday and Cyber Monday). We use price comparison sites like CamelCamelCamel to determine whether the discount you're getting is actually a saving, or whether you should purchase it at another time.

How we give our verdict

Though our experts have ample experience in testing coffee makers, many of our in-house customer advisors will coordinate with colleagues on our sister publications to arrange a coffee maker review day in our Future plc kitchen, where we have the facilities and equipment available to test these machines in one place and act as a collective panel. 

• Five stars: denote an outstanding product in all of the above criteria. It is rarely awarded, although we do aim to review the best quality product possible and the various industries' leaders, to ensure you'll be buying the best products for your homes. These 5-star (and 4.5-star) products are awarded a Real Homes Rated Gold badge which you'll see dotted around the site.
• Four stars: an excellent product that delivers on all the key criteria and would be a good investment for our audience. If a product gets this rating it receives a Real Homes Rated Silver badge.
• Three stars: a good score that denotes the product has elements of all of the above criteria. It is the standard rating for products that could be enjoyed by most of our audience. They are awarded a Real Homes Rated Bronze badge.

How to submit a coffee maker for review

Our team is always looking to get our hands on new coffee makers to put to the test. If you or your company would like us to review your product, please reach out to homesecommerce@futurenet.com.

Our coffee maker reviews

5-star coffee makers

These reviews have been given our gold badge and are considered to be the top-rated models we've tested.

• Bruvi coffee maker review
• De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker review
• De'Longhi Primadonna Soul Automatic coffee maker review
• Keurig K-Supreme Plus Single Serve coffee maker review
• NutriBullet Brew Choice Pod + Carafe coffee maker review
• OXO Brew 8-cup coffee maker review
• Sage Nespresso Creatista Uno SNE500BKS coffee machine review

4.5-star coffee makers

• Braun MultiServe coffee maker review
• Breville Barista Max espresso machine review
• Cuisinart grind & brew single-serve coffee maker review
• De’Longhi Active Line ICM14011 drip coffee machine review
• Gastroback Design Espresso Barista Pro coffee machine review
• Grind One pod coffee maker review
• Keurig K-Duo single serve & carafe coffee maker review
• Keurig K-Elite single-serve coffee maker
• Keurig K-Express review
• Keurig K-Slim + ICED Single Serve coffee maker review
• Nespresso Citiz espresso maker
• Nespresso Essenza mini review
• Nespresso Lattissima One review
• Nespresso Vertuo Next review
• Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker review
• Ninja Programmable XL 14-cup coffee maker review
• Ninja Specialty coffee maker review

4-star coffee makers

• Casabrews espresso maker review
• De'Longhi Dedica Style EC685 coffee machine review
• De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351 espresso coffee machine review
• Keurig K-Classic coffee maker review
• Keurig K-Select coffee maker review
• Nespresso Pixie espresso maker
• Nespresso Pop coffee maker
• Nespresso Vertuo Plus review
• Zwilling Enfinigy Drip coffee maker review

3.5-star coffee makers

• Beautiful By Drew Barrymore coffee maker review
• Smeg ECF01 espresso machine review

Like a good espresso, the Nespresso Essenza Mini proves that the best things come in small packages. And, while the company has recently released several new models with all of the bells and whistles — some of its older machines deserve serious consideration.

On first impression, this compact coffee machine is particularly ideal for space-challenged households because it’s compact enough to easily fit in small kitchens and also finds a home on crowded countertops. It’s also a convenient choice for those who prefer single-cup coffee, as well as people who like the idea of using pods instead of measuring and adding grounds to a filter compartment. After all, Nespresso has gained quite the reputation for making a variety of single-serve coffee makers that deliver hot beverages at the touch of a button.

But just because it’s easy to use doesn’t mean that this coffee maker compromises on quality. After testing the Nespresso Essenza Mini for over a week, these are my thoughts.

Nespresso Essenza Mini review

What I thought of the Nespresso Essenza Mini

If you don’t like complex machines, this small coffee maker is quite simple to use, which also makes it great for beginners. However, the 19-bar high-pressure pump and fast heat-up are hallmarks of Nespresso’s thoughtful designs.

Be advised that you’ll need to use Nespresso’s capsules with this pod coffee maker, and your espresso drinks can’t be customized. Also, it doesn’t come with a built-in milk frother like some of the best Nespresso coffee makers. But for the price, you can’t beat the Nespresso Essenza Mini for a basic machine that makes great-tasting espresso drinks.  

Testing the Nespresso Essenza Mini

Nespresso Essenza Mini specifications

• Dimensions (in): H12.8 x W8.1 x D4.3
• Weight (pounds): 5.1 lbs
• Water tank capacity (fluid ounces): 20.3 fl oz
• Container capacity: 5-6 used capsules
• Voltage: 120 V
• Wattage: 1255 W

Unboxing the Nespresso Essenza Mini

The Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker was certainly well packaged. It arrived in a brown shipping box (with another Nespresso that I’m testing), and inside of that, a brown, Nespresso-branded shipping box. 

Upon opening that box, there was another Nespresso-branded box with a convenient carrying handle. The molded cardboard inside kept everything in place.

There’s not much assembly required. After taking everything out of the box and removing the protective plastic, I merely needed to attach the drip grid and base and remove the stickers. According to the Amazon page, it ships with a set of 16 Nespresso capsules, and according to the text on the box that was shipped to me, 14 should have been included. However, I only received five capsules.

Setting up the Nespresso Essenza Mini

After unboxing and setting up the Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker, I familiarized myself with the machine. Even though I’ve tested several dozen coffee and espresso machines, I always read the instructions. But honestly, this one was so user-friendly that reading was merely a formality.

The 20.3-ounce water tank holds enough water to avoid having to refill it every time I want to make an espresso. It’s a removable water tank, which makes it easy to fill, pour out, and clean. After filling the tank with water, I placed a container under the coffee spout, turned the machine on, and pressed the Lungo button to rinse the machine. This is done to remove any dust or debris from the manufacturing process. I repeated this process three times.

Using the Nespresso Essenza Mini

Making coffee

There are only two buttons on the machine: Espresso and Lungo. Since I was making the larger of the two coffee choices, I moved the drip tray/base/grid out of the way and placed my double-walled glass mug (similar to this Bodum pair on Amazon) underneath the spout. After raising the lever on top, I inserted a Nespresso capsule, closed it, and pressed the Lungo button. Since the Nespresso Essenza Mini uses a 19-bar high-pressure pump to extract flavors and aromas, in less than 30 seconds, the system reached the perfect temperature and started brewing.

The corresponding light for the Lungo selection blinked for around 25 seconds, and then the light was steady when it was ready to start brewing. (Had I chosen Espresso, the light for that selection would have followed the same process.) When the machine finished brewing, it had a silky crema layer – which I was not expecting with this model, so it was a very pleasant surprise!

I raised the lever, which ejected the capsule into the used capsule container. It’s not big but can hold five or six capsules before it needs to be emptied. There’s also an eco mode on the Nespresso Essenza Mini that kicks in after three minutes to lower energy consumption. And, after nine minutes of not being in use, the machine will turn itself off.

Cleaning and maintaining the Nespresso Essenza Mini

It’s quite easy to clean the coffee maker. The used capsules were ejected into the capsule container in the machine, which I then emptied (I tend to empty them every day instead of letting them accumulate in the container).

Then I emptied the drip tray and base to remove any water inside and cleaned them and the water tank with a small amount of unscented dish soap (i.e.: Palmolive's fragrance-free detergent on Amazon) and warm water. Using a damp microfiber cloth (like these AIDEA ones on Amazon), I also cleaned the machine’s exterior and wiped it around inside. 

Descaling the Nespresso Essenza Mini

I haven’t had the machine long enough for it to require descaling, but the descaling process takes about 15 minutes. It entails pouring Nespresso descaling solution (available directly from their site) into the water tank and then filling the tank with water up to the fill line. Next, put a container under the coffee outlet, turn the machine on, and press the Espresso and Lungo buttons for five seconds at which time, both LEDs will blink.

Then press the Lungo button and the water tank will empty into the container. The used water in the container is then poured back into the water tank and the cycle is repeated. The final step is to empty the used water, refill the water tank with fresh water, and then run two cycles to rinse all of the solution out.

Good to know

Instructions
The Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker comes with an instruction guide that covers the brewing and cleaning process.

Color choices
Color choices for the Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker are plentiful. I tested the piano black color, but it’s also available in Pure White, Intense Grey, Ruby Red, and Lime Green.

Similarly-named models
The Nespresso Essenza by De'Longhi (available on Amazon) is a lighter, more affordable model, but has a larger reservoir. 

Warranty
The Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker has a limited 1-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship.

Is the Nespresso Essenza Mini right for you?

If you like single serve Espresso and Lungo without the hassle of using coffee grounds, the Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker is easy and convenient — and the used capsules can be stored in the machine for almost a week before you need to empty it. The compact size also makes it a great option for small spaces — or for anyone who just doesn’t want a bulky machine.  It quickly makes great-tasting Lungos and Espressos, and the silky crema layer on top makes it even more yummy.

Where to buy the Nespresso Essenza Mini

The Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Maker is available to purchase directly from the retailer, via their Amazon storefront, or through retailers like Williams Sonoma.

How we test espresso makers

Nespresso sent me the machine and I tested it for several weeks in my house before writing the review. I used the following criteria for the testing process: 

Unboxing: I evaluated the product’s packaging, including how well it protected the product during shipping. I gave bonus points for packaging that is more sustainable, such as including cardboard packing instead of using Styrofoam. 

Operation: When evaluating the machine’s operation, I looked for factors like reliable performance, how long it takes to warm up and brew, and how loud the machine’s operation is. 

Beverage quality: I evaluated how well the machine prepared coffee and espresso, looking for qualities like a consistent brew and a hot temperature. I also considered the different flavors and options available in Nespresso’s capsules. 

Ease of use: I considered how user-friendly the machine is, including the learning curve when using it for the first time and what consumers will experience when using it daily. I also considered factors like how easy it is to insert and remove capsules and to fill and insert the water rank. 

Ease of cleaning: I considered how easily the machine can be cleaned and maintained, including whether components are dishwasher-safe. I also evaluated the descaling process and how easily it can be completed. 

The Nespresso Pixie is the Tinkerbell of tiny coffee makers. It's compact, cute, not to mention magical (especially in the morning). However, unlike this fictional character, this machine will make all your black coffee wishes come true in real life. 

But my main reason for wanting to try the Nespresso Pixie out? Apparently, it's one of the brand's fastest single-cup coffee makers with only a 25-second heat-up time, and ergonomic enough to fit in any small kitchen. As well as delivering short shots in under half a minute, this popular espresso maker can also make longer drinks for those who prefer something closer to an Americano. Plus something in the middle with the automatic flow stop feature.

On looks alone, this small coffee maker means business. I was sent the aluminum option to test, but this baby is also available in an Electric Tritan colorway. Both colors boss the industrial-chic aesthetic, but will it stand up to the bigger coffee makers? Let's find out!

Nespresso Pixie review

What I thought of the Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie has a sleek, modern design in a compact shape. For space-challenged households, this coffee maker a welcome alternative to bulkier espresso machines that can eat up a significant amount of counter space and are hard to store when not in use.

In addition, this Nespresso maker provides the level of convenience desired by those who prefer the ease of inserting capsules over measuring and scooping ground filters. The two-button operation provides further simplicity and is appealing to those who don’t want the hassle of learning a complex operating process. But for all of its simplicity, the machine doesn’t compromise on taste or appearance. It delivers a great-tasting shot of coffee, in a stylish design, at a reasonable price. 

Testing the Nespresso Pixie

Nespresso Pixie specifications

• Model name: Nespresso Pixie in aluminum
• Dimensions (in.): H9.3 x W4.4 x D12.8
• Weight (lb): 5.58 pounds
• Water tank capacity (oz): 24 ounces
• Container capacity: 9-11 used capsules
• Voltage: 120 V
• Wattage: 1160 W

Unboxing and setting up the Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker arrived in a brown shipping box (along with another Nespresso model that I’m testing), and inside of that, a brown, Nespresso-branded shipping box. Inside of that box was another Nespresso-branded box with a convenient carrying handle. The machine was certainly well-packaged and included molded cardboard on the top and the bottom to keep it protected and firmly in place. 

There’s also a protective plastic covering covering this popular pod coffee maker. After removing it, I merely needed to attach the drip tray and grid and remove the stickers. The parts of the espresso machine include the drip tray, drip grid and cup support, water tank and lid, and capsule container. The Nespresso Pixie also includes cord storage underneath. After determining the appropriate length, the excess cord can be stored in the channels underneath.

According to the Amazon page, the Nespresso Pixie ships with a set of 16 Nespresso capsules, and according to the text on the box that was shipped to me, 14 should have been included. However, I only received five capsules.

Using the Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is certainly user-friendly, unlike some single-serve coffee makers with such extensive instructions that I would brew a cup of coffee (on another machine) and then sit down to read through them. 

The 20.3-ounce water tank is removable, which makes it easy to fill with water — and also easy to empty and fill. However, it was probably the only fussy part of the espresso maker. That’s because of the hooks on the back side that have to line up perfectly or the tank can’t be properly inserted.

Many water tanks have some sort of additional support. What makes this process noteworthy is the fact that these fasteners are curved, so instead of inserting the water tank and pushing it flush against the back of the machine, the water tank has to be inserted at an angle for the hooks to go in correctly.

In the course of a week, it took at least two tries each time to successfully attach the water tank. Needless to say, I filled the tank with water while it was in place instead of trying to manipulate the hooks with the added water weight.

Using the Nespresso Pixie

For the first time using the Nespresso Pixie, I filled the tank with water, placed a container under the coffee spout, turned the machine on, and pressed the Lungo button to rinse the machine. This process is recommended to remove any dust or debris from the manufacturing process. Per the instructions, I repeated this process 3 times.

Note: There’s no fill line on the water tank, but that shouldn’t be a problem for most people since you’re only making small quantities of coffee.

If you’re a fan of simplicity, you’ll appreciate that there are only two buttons on the machine: Espresso and Lungo. Raising the lever on top (which looks like a carrying handle for the machine — but it’s not) causes the capsule compartment to open. I inserted a Nespresso capsule, lowered the level, and pressed the Espresso button.

Another impressive feature is how quickly the Nespresso Pixie works. As a result of the 19-bar high-pressure pump used to extract flavor and aroma at the right time, it really did take around 25 seconds for the system to reach the ideal temperature and start the brewing process.

During the preparation process, the light (for Espresso or Lungo) will blink, and then the light will be steady when it’s ready to start brewing.  I was pleasantly surprised to see that the machine also provided a crema layer, albeit an artificially-spun one. The Nespresso Pixie also has adjustable settings. For example, it automatically shuts off after nine minutes. However, the settings can be changed to stay on for 30 minutes.  

Cleaning and maintaining the Nespresso Pixie

Wiping down the exterior fascia and parts

The used capsule container can hold 9–11 capsules before it needs to be emptied. Unlike most espresso makers, the used capsules are visible in the container, which may or may not be problematic to some — but it’s worth mentioning.

Cleaning the coffee maker is quite easy. Since the used capsules are automatically ejected into the capsule container, it’s merely a matter of emptying that bin into the trash. This doesn’t even have to be done on a daily basis since the bin holds 9–11 used capsules (however, I’m the type of person who prefers to remove the used capsules every day).

Every day, I also emptied the drip tray and base to remove any water inside. Using warm water and a few drops of dish soap (i.e: Palmolive's fragrance free detergent on Amazon), I cleaned the drip tray, base, and water tank.  Then, I used a damp microfiber cloth (like these AIDEA ones on Amazon) to clean the machine’s exterior and wipe around the inside of the machine. 

Descaling the Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie hasn’t been used enough to require descaling, but it’s also a simple process: Pour Nespresso descaling solution into the water tank, then fill the tank with water. After placing a container under the coffee outlet, turn the machine on, and press the Espresso and Lungo buttons for five seconds at which time. Both LEDs will blink. Then press the Lungo button and the water tank will empty into the container. Once this cycle is complete, Nespresso’s instructions are to take the water in the container pour it back into the water tank, and start the descaling cycle again. The final steps are to empty the container again, refill the water tank with fresh water, and then run two cycles to rinse out all of the solution.

Is the Nespresso Pixie right for you?

The Nespresso Pixie Espresso makes it quite easy and convenient to make Espresso and Lungo without having to use coffee grounds and portafilters. It’s hard to beat popping in a capsule and then ejecting it into the bin. The swiftness with which it brews, as well as the crema layer it produces allow the espresso maker to compete with more advanced and expensive competitors. Another selling point is the compact size, which works well in small spaces.  also makes it a great option for small spaces — or for anyone who just doesn’t want a bulky machine.  It quickly makes great-tasting Lungos and Espressos, and the silky crema layer on top makes it even more yummy.

However, you’re limited in the types of drinks you can make. For those who prefer lattes and cappuccinos, the Nespresso Lattissima One which comes with a single-serve, dishwasher-safe milk jug. It also has an exact milk measurement feature so you won’t waste milk.

Good to know

Instructions
The machine includes a safety pamphlet and a 27-page instructions manual. The manual has detailed diagrams, but the written instructions are very minimal. Additional information would be helpful in some instances, such as in describing the descaling process. Since the instructions are provided in 18 languages and the languages aren’t separated by sections, they are somewhat cluttered. 

Warranty
Nespresso backs this espresso machine with a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Where to buy the Nespresso Pixie

How we test espresso makers

Nespresso sent me the machine and I tested it for several weeks in my house before writing the review. I used the following criteria for the testing process: 

Unboxing: I evaluated the product’s packaging, including how well it protected the product during shipping. I gave bonus points for packaging that is more sustainable, such as including cardboard packing instead of using Styrofoam. 

Operation: When evaluating the machine’s operation, I looked for factors like reliable performance, how long it takes to warm up and brew, and how loud the machine’s operation is. 

Beverage quality: I evaluated how well the machine prepared coffee and espresso, looking for qualities like a consistent brew and a hot temperature. I also considered the different flavors and options available in Nespresso’s capsules. 

Ease of use: I considered how user-friendly the machine is, including the learning curve when using it for the first time and what consumers will experience when using it daily. I also considered factors like how easy it is to insert and remove capsules and to fill and insert the water rank. 

Ease of cleaning: I considered how easily the machine can be cleaned and maintained, including whether components are dishwasher-safe. I also evaluated the descaling process and how easily it can be completed. 

 The Nespresso Citiz takes an entirely different approach to making a quick shot. You see, many espresso machines make preparing a short coffee into something of an art. From grinding beans and packing grounds to finding the perfect temperature and pressure, making a beverage that’s supposed to pick you up can be an exhausting process in itself. 

This machine features a simple operation. With just two buttons and Nespresso’s coffee capsules, there are no real settings to worry about. It’s quick and efficient, ideal when you need to get your coffee and go.

Plus, with its compact design, this espresso maker can easily fit in most offices, apartments, and kitchens, even when space is limited. While the lack of options like milk frothing and pressure control might be a downside to some, this small coffee maker puts in an efficient and consistent performance that makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a simplified brewing experience. 

Nespresso Citiz review

TLDR

Looking for simple, quick, and easy espresso and lungo coffee brewing? You’ll get exactly that with the Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Machine. This coffee maker doesn’t have all of the bells and whistles of your traditional espresso machine, but it allows you to enjoy coffee and espresso without all of that hassle. 

Its compact design makes it an ideal choice for houses, apartments, and businesses where space is limited. Designed to work with the Nespresso capsules (available on Amazon), this machine has a total of two buttons. There’s no need to worry about grinding beans and compacting coffee grounds. This machine efficiently does all of the work for you, saving you time and putting in an impressively consistent performance. 

Testing the Nespresso Citiz

Nespresso Citiz specifications

• Model name: Nespresso CitiZ
• Dimensions (in.): H10.9 x W5.1 x D14.6
• Reservoir capacity (oz): 33 ounces
• Used capsule container capacity: 9 capsules
• Weight of machine (lbs): 8.9 pounds
• Voltage: 120V
• Cord length (ft): 2.6 feet
• Accessories: Removable drip tray
• Available colors: Chrome, red, white, black, stainless steel

Unboxing and setting up the Nespresso Citiz

The Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Machine arrived double-boxed and in excellent condition. I also received two boxes of Nespresso No. 20 ground coffee capsules (available to buy online). These have notes of orange blossom and citrus and are made using Columbian coffee beans.

The espresso maker is packaged largely with molded cardboard inserts instead of styrofoam. The packaging selection is part of Nespresso’s commitment to sustainability. Additionally, 80% of the aluminum used in the capsules is recycled aluminum, and the capsules are packaged in a cardboard box with no plastic wrapping. Nespresso offers a free capsule recycling bag that you can also return for free by dropping it off at any UPS drop-off location. In New York City, customers can recycle the capsules by putting them directly into their recycling bins.

Setting up the machine was easy and intuitive. The drip tray was separately wrapped, but the rest of the machine was delivered as a single unit. After removing two pieces of tape holding components in place, the machine was ready to use. 

Before brewing any drinks, Nespresso instructs you to rinse and fill the tank, then on the machine, and run a hot water cycle. The process is easy and the water cycle completes in about one minute. The water reservoir pulls up and out of the machine, and it features a large and fully removable cap for easy filling. Once filled, it snaps back into the machine with minimal effort. The construction of the base guides the water reservoir into place and creates a secure fit.

Using the Nespresso Citiz

The machine warms up in about 25 seconds after being turned on. During that time, I inserted a capsule into the top of the machine. This process is largely foolproof, thanks to the shape of the receptacle, which only allows you to insert the capsule in the correct direction. The level is easy to press down, holding the capsule in place. 

This machine is incredibly simple to use and features only two buttons on the top. The larger button is for lungo coffees, and the shorter one is for espresso. Depending on the size of the cup that you’ll be using, you might place it directly on the drip tray, or fold down the cup tray for smaller cups. 

Once the cup is in place, you only have to press the button corresponding to the type of drink you want to make. The machine starts to brew instantly. I found that espresso shots took about ten seconds, while the Lungo coffee took about 90 seconds. The machine offers a quiet operation, reaching a peak of 58 decibels. It’s quiet enough that I think someone sleeping in an adjoining room wouldn’t be woken by its use. 

I found that the drinks were consistently 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Both the espresso and the lungo had a rich, frothy crema. The Nespresso capsules have a rich taste, and there are also many varieties available via Nespresso in flavors like pumpkin spice cake, cioccolatino, vaniglia, caramello, and more. 

Each time you open the lever to insert a capsule, the machine collects the used capsule in a container. That container, and the drip tray below it, are easy to remove, so you can collect the capsules in a recycling bag. 

I was pleased to find that I was able to continuously use the machine to make drinks without having to wait for a cool-down period, as I’ve encountered with other machines. This espresso machine has an automatic off function that will turn it off after nine minutes of inactivity. That function is programmable and can be set to turn the machine off after nine or 30 minutes. I didn’t find the instructions for how to do this in the printed instructions manual that comes with the machine, but they are included in the digital instruction manual available on the Nespresso website. 

Cleaning and maintaining the Nespresso Citiz

The removable components of this machine, including the drip tray and used capsule container, can be hand-washed with hot water and a mild, odorless detergent (Palmolive fragrance-free dish soap is under $4 on Amazon). They can then be dried with a dish towel (like these from Amazon) and reinserted in the machine.  I reviewed this machine in a black finish, which is highly glossy. I found that it smudged quickly and easily, and I had to wipe the machine with a damp microfiber cloth to remove the smudges. They're a bit bright, but these HOMEXCEL towels I found on Amazon do a great job.

Nespresso recommends that you periodically descale the machine to remove mineral buildup and keep the unit operating at its best. The frequency at which you’ll need to descale the machine depends on your water hardness and how often you use the espresso machine. It provides a chart to help you determine your descaling frequency.

To clean your coffee maker, Nespresso recommends using water and a Nespresso descaling liquid (currently on offer on its site). Alternatively, Nespresso's descaler is also available on Amazon (albeit at full price). Once you decant a sachet into the water tank, you can set the machine to the descaling mode and let it run until the water tank is empty. You will need to refill the tank with the descaling solution and repeat the process, then fill the container with clean water and run it through the machine again. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. 

Is the Nespresso Citiz right for you?

The Nespresso CitiZ Espresso Machine is designed for coffee drinkers who want an easy and compact solution. This isn’t for the coffee aficionado who enjoys grinding their own beans and who wants precise control of the brewing process. A good bean-to-cup coffee maker would be better for said sipper. Instead, it’s best for coffee drinkers who enjoy a hot, consistent brew but who don’t have the time or the space to use a full espresso machine with accessories like warming plates and milk frothers. 

With two buttons and no real controls and settings to worry about, this machine is simple and straightforward. It would be a great introductory model for a coffee drinker buying their first machine since the range of Nespresso capsule flavors allows you to explore different brews. The machine’s compact design is another major advantage, especially compared to the size of your average coffee maker or espresso machine. Its small footprint saves counter space, and since it only weighs 8.9 pounds, it can easily be placed into a cupboard when not in use.

On the lookout for some alternatives, we've tried and tested these too...

Good to know

Instructions
The machine includes a safety pamphlet and a 27-page instructions manual. The manual has detailed diagrams, but the written instructions are very minimal. Additional information would be helpful in some instances, such as in describing the descaling process. Since the instructions are provided in 18 languages and the languages aren’t separated by sections, they are somewhat cluttered. 

Warranty
Nespresso backs this espresso machine with a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Where to buy the Nespresso Citiz

This espresso machine is available directly through Nespresso. It is also available on Best Buy and via Amazon. 

How we test espresso makers

Nespresso sent me the machine and I tested it for several weeks in my house before writing the review. I used the following criteria for the testing process: 

Unboxing: I evaluated the product’s packaging, including how well it protected the product during shipping. I gave bonus points for packaging that is more sustainable, such as including cardboard packing instead of using Styrofoam. 

Operation: When evaluating the machine’s operation, I looked for factors like reliable performance, how long it takes to warm up and brew, and how loud the machine’s operation is. 

Beverage quality: I evaluated how well the machine prepared coffee and espresso, looking for qualities like a consistent brew and a hot temperature. I also considered the different flavors and options available in Nespresso’s capsules. 

Ease of use: I considered how user-friendly the machine is, including the learning curve when using it for the first time and what consumers will experience when using it daily. I also considered factors like how easy it is to insert and remove capsules and to fill and insert the water rank. 

Ease of cleaning: I considered how easily the machine can be cleaned and maintained, including whether components are dishwasher-safe. I also evaluated the descaling process and how easily it can be completed. 

The Cuisinart grind & brew single-serve coffee maker is the coffeephile's answer to filter coffee without the fuss. No soggy papers, no waiting around for a drip-by-drip drink. This coffee machine cuts down time and clean-up (to a certain extent, but I'll come to that later).

Though most would classify it as a single-serve coffee maker, this 3-in-1 small coffee machine takes beans, pods, and grounds. Clever right? But just like those magazine quizzes I used to do as a teen, it really depends on what type of user you are to determine what coffee-making route you'll take.

If flavor is your top priority, you'll want to use it as a bean-to-cup coffee maker. But if you appreciate variety (and don't want to keep changing the hopper), use it like a pod coffee maker. Don't want to break up that relationship with your independent roastery/coffee bar, and are intimidated by whole beans? Get them to grind your favorite coffee cherries so you have a familiar-tasting cup without paying for their overheads or queueing up for a cup. I tested the Cuisinart grind & brew single-serve coffee maker to see whether it could replicate my favorite shop-bought sip in the comfort of my own home. 

Cuisinart grind & brew single-serve coffee maker review

What I thought of the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker

The Cuisinart grind & brew single-serve coffee maker is a great machine for users who want a freshly ground, filter coffee maker experience without the wait (or mess of filter papers). It's a flexible machine with a reusable filter that allows you to use either whole beans or ground coffee. Most surprisingly, it can even be used as a Keurig coffee maker so you can mix and match your brew based on availability, budget, or preference. However, for transparency, we didn't have any Keurig pods on hand to test this feature. If you want to go down this avenue, we recommend the Keurig Coffee Lovers' Collection Sampler Pack, available on Amazon.

The machine has a small footprint, making it a good choice for rental kitchens. Nonetheless, the drip tray could be wider to accommodate larger cups, and an adjustable tray height would improve the overall design (especially to prevent coffee from splashing down the side).

Mechanically, the conical burr crushes coffee beans effectively, resulting in an espresso shot that is strong and has a decent amount of crema. Grinding is on the loud side at 80dB, compared to a 41-55 dB brew. 

Testing the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker

Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker specifications

• Model number: DGB-2
• Dimensions (in.):  D11.02 x W7.28 x H12.67
• Weight (lbs): 7 lbs
• Pump pressure (bar): 
• Beans container capacity (oz): 3.5 oz
• Water container capacity (oz): 48 fl oz
• Voltage: 50V
• Wattage Output (watts): 1200W

Unboxing and setting up the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker

The 7-pound machine is well-packaged in a molded pulp container to prevent any damage in transit. Though there is some plastic packaging, it's not excessive, but you should keep it away from children and pets.

Using the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker

If you've read one of my coffee maker reviews before, you'll know they are pretty thorough. However, this is such a simple machine to use that it's a comparitively short.

Understanding the control panel

The control panel has four buttons that you'll need to familiarize yourself with, and although there's no LED screen, the icons are pretty self-explanatory:

• Power ON/OFF: Designed to turn the brewer on and off
• Grind button: Press to automatically start/stop grinding coffee into the filter cup.
• Add water indicator: This button will illuminate red when water levels run low
• Brew size buttons: Select 8, 10, or 12 oz cup sizes to begin brewing

Inserting the water filter

This coffee maker comes with a charcoal water filter that eliminates chlorine, bad tastes, and odors from tap water. I live in a hard water area, so this was a nice bonus to have. This was one of the parts that came in a polybag and does involve some time to setup.

1. Soak the filter, fully immersed, in cold tap water for 15 minutes. 
2. Lift the water filter holder out of the water reservoir. 
3. Press down on the filter compartment and pull it toward you to open.
4. Place the filter into the holder and snap it closed. Be careful – it's a little fragile.
5. Flush the filter by running cold tap water through holes in the bottom of the compartment for ten seconds.
6. Allow the filter to drain completely.
7. Slide the water filter holder back into the channel in the water reservoir, pushing it down to the base of the unit.

Just so you know, additional charcoal filters can be bought from Cuisinart. It is advised that you change these once a month. Once the filtration system is set up, you can fill the tank with 48 ounces of water from your faucet. I like that it's removable so you don't have to lift the whole machine and place it under the tap (an obvious electrical risk).

Cleaning the machine for the first time

You'll want to run a rinse cycle (without coffee). To do this, press the power on button. Then, open and close the brew head (being careful not to touch the sharp needle). Next, place a mug on the drip tray. Press the 10 oz. Brew Size button to begin the brew cycle. Hot water will start to dispense in the cup. When the process is complete, you can discard the wastewater and begin brewing!

Using the grinder

For optimum results, you'll want to make coffee using beans. This is a pretty easy 4-step process that takes less than two minutes from start to finish. To begin, remove the bean hopper lid and add your beans.

By the way, in case you're frantically hunting for it — your HomeBarista Reusable Filter Cup pops out of the left side of coffee maker. Open the lid of the filter cup and insert it into the holder below the grinder.

Holder in? Great! Press the Power button to turn on the unit. The Power and Grind buttons will light up. Then, press the Grind button to start grinding. The grinder is set to automatically turn off once the filter cup is full.

By the way, Cuisinart says that If you buy large portions of beans, separate them into one-week portions and store them in airtight containers in your freezer. You can also preserve freshness by minimizing exposure to air, light, and moisture.  And, once beans are removed from the freezer, keep them in a sealed container at room temperature.

Making coffee

With ground whole beans
To make coffee, remove the filter cup from the grinder holder, close the lid, and pop it into the brew chamber. FYI, it doesn't need to click or snap into place, but this would have given us some reassurance.

Close the brewer head, pop your cup or travel mug underneath, and select your chosen brew size. At this point, it's important to note that the brewing process can be stopped during brewing. Simply press the button again to cancel your coffee order.

When your drink is ready all of the brew buttons will be unlit. The Grind button will remain on for use until the brew head lever is opened to begin the brewing process. After brewing, raise the handle and remove the filter cup. Be careful as it will be hot (I learned the hard way). Replace the capsule holder, making sure that the arrow on the capsule holder rim aligns with the arrow on the brewing chamber. Gently push the capsule holder to snap into place.

Packaged grounds
Using shop-bought grounds isn't too dissimilar. Obviously, instead of using the grinder, you can use the included scoop to measure your preferred amount (making sure that it doesn't exceed the max line). The maximum fill is roughly 2.5 scoops or 0.5 ounces and you don't need to tamp your grounds.

So, how did it taste? Temp-wise they range between 192 -198 degrees Fahrenheit. For reference, I tend to wait until mine is around the 140 mark before drinking. Nonetheless, I did miss the ritual of warming my cups on top of the machine (it doesn't have this feature). Taste-wise, all three sizes had good strength, and I'd be happy to serve my guests using this machine.

Cleaning the Cuisinart Grind & Brew single-serve Coffee Maker

Descaling the coffee maker

If all button lights are flashing in sequence — it's time to clean the coffee maker.

To descale the coffee maker (or decalcify it, per Cuisinart's terminology), you'll want to clean your coffee machine using vinegar. Having tested my fair share of coffee makers, it's quite refreshing to see that the brand advocates using this affordable cleaning supply. Amazon's Happy Belly white distilled vinegar works out at just eight cents per fluid ounce. Note, that some manufacturers consider this a coffee maker cleaning mistake, and in some cases, it can actually invalidate your warranty if they find out!

They recommend rinsing your coffee maker with vinegar at least once a month (maybe more frequently if you live in a hard water area). If you've never done this before, follow this 10-step method:

1. Fill the water reservoir with 13 oz. of white vinegar and 26 oz. of water.
2. Place a mug or other container on the drip tray.
3. Open and close the brew head. 
4. Press and hold the Power and 8 oz. buttons for two seconds to start descaling
5. Discard the contents of the mug into the sink.
6. Repeat this process until the 'Add Water' light comes on.
7. When descaling is complete, the 'Power' and 'Grind' buttons will light up
8. Discard any remaining diluted vinegar into the sink.
9. Repeat step one three times using fresh water in place of the vinegar mixture. This will remove any residual vinegar taste.

Cleaning the bean hopper and burr grinder

Hopper
Before unlocking and removing the burr grinder, make sure you've emptied all of the
beans from the hopper. The hopper can be wiped down with a soapy, damp, non-abrasive microfiber cloth, making sure any dish soap residue is rinsed with clean water. Next, use the scoop brush included to clean the grind outlet to clear away excess grounds and wipe with a wet microfiber cloth.

Burr grinder
The burr grinder is not dishwasher safe, so will need to be hand washed.

Cleaning the grinder

When the Grind button indicator is flashing, it means that your grinder is overloaded. To unclog it, press the power button and unplug the unit. Wait five seconds, the grind button should illuminate to grind again. If the Grind indicator is still flashing — remove the burr grinder and clean it well.

Cleaning the filter cup

While we hand-washed the funnel/capsule holder, Cuisinart says it is top-shelf dishwasher safe (just be sure to use a low-temperature / eco cycle). 

Cleaning the exit/piercing needles

We didn't experience any clog-ups during our test, but Cuisinart advise that any coffee-ground congestion can be irrigated using a paper clip. This 220-piece pack of paper clips from Amazon means you'll never be without.

Cleaning the drip tray

The Cuisinart grind & brew single-serve coffee maker has a removable drip tray which makes this component easy to clean. We hand-washed it with dish soap and warm water, however, you can pop the tray and plate into the dishwasher. Cuisinart advises that you don't clean the tray with steel wool pads or abrasive cleaners/materials.

Is the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker right for you?

If you don't want to invest in a coffee grinder, or if a flashy bean-to-cup coffee maker is too big (or expensive), kill two birds with one stone by investing in this small kitchen appliance. At under $150, it's a decent machine that can make varying sizes of black coffee. If you're looking for an espresso maker, or a machine that can make white coffee drinks — this isn't for you. 

Looking for similar models. The coffee makers below have similar attributes:

Good to know

The Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-Serve Coffeemaker comes with a three-year warranty, but you'll need to register the product to qualify for a free repair or replacement. Don't forget to keep your receipt or proof of purchase as you'll need to show evidence of the purchase date if making a claim. If you live in California, you'll have slightly different terms and conditions.

Where to buy the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-serve Coffee Maker

The Cuisinart DGB-2 Grind & Brew Single-Serve Coffeemaker is available directly at Cuisinart, and we've also spotted it on Amazon, Crate & Barrel, and Target too.

How we test coffee makers

Packaging: How well are the machine and accessories protected in transit? Do the parts come wrapped in unnecessary amounts of plastic?

Weight: How easy is it to carry from my front door to the kitchen?

Setup: How easy is it to assemble the machine (if applicable) and make a coffee? How long does this process take? Does it require instructions?

Brew quality and grind: Here, I make each drink and assess the strength, bar pressure, extraction, and time it takes to make each drink.

Noise levels: Is this machine quiet enough to make coffee in the morning, without disturbing co-habitants and neighbors?

Size: Can the machine be used in a small kitchen? How tall is the machine and is there adequate counter clearance for it to sit underneath cupboards?

Features: Are the programmable settings helpful? Does the milk frother foam milk consistently and satisfactorily each time?

Cleaning: How easy is it to maintain this machine? Are coffee stains wipeable? Can the drip tray and waste bin be removed easily? Which parts are hand-washable or dishwasher-safe? How easy is it to descale this coffee maker?

I was initially unsure of how the De'Longhi Rivelia was going to "reinvent the wheel". Coffee and I go way back, consistently providing that "main character" energy I need on the Mondayist of Mondays. In fact, in preparation for this review, I made sure I had a cup by my side. It's a commodity that I consume every day. Like a good friend, it's there with me always (not to mention more convenient than a pint of ice cream). And I can say that it's my longest relationship (spanning more years than my husband and I's 11-year courtship before we tied the knot).

It's obvious that coffee (and the best coffee makers) share characteristics with our loved ones. I know that might sound a bit odd, but I found out that when De'Longhi where developing this machine, they actually got customers to write an open letter to our favorite brown beverage. "You are always with me" was one of the responses, proving how personal our experience with Joe really is. And proving beyond doubt, that it's an emotional support beverage.

My relationship has changed with technology. 15-20 years ago, barely anybody had one of the best automatic bean-to-cup coffee makers at home. But with all of the innovation that exists, and the fact that I spend more time at home, I'm switching out our Starbucks habit for a handcrafted brew. Here's why I'm making the Rivelia coffee maker my machine of choice here on out...

De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker review

What I thought of the De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker

First off — can we talk color? It's no coincidence that it matches the adjacent fridge panel. That's because when I asked the team at De'Longhi why they chose Onyx black, Arctic white, Sand beige, and Pebble grey, they went as far as to look into kitchen color trends so that their coffee maker could be part of the decor.

But aside from that, if you're looking for a professional-looking machine that isn't bulky and made from stainless steel — this would be my go-to. A little secret I learned in the factory is that De'Longhi is the only B2C brand that manufactures machines for its competitors so you know you're getting a best-in-market machine.

As well as using whole beans as its coffee-making currency, the Rivelia also takes grounds. It makes 16 different drinks, including a variety of espresso-based brews served black, milky variants (with the built-in milk frother), and cold sips over ice. Yes, it might be on the taller end of your budget, but I'm the person who looks at value based on cost-per-use, and used my previous bean-to-cup brewer for five years. 

Testing the De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker

De'Longhi Rivelia specifications

• Dimensions (in.): W9.6 x D16.9 x H15.2
• Weight (lbs): 21.4lbs
• Pump pressure (bar): 19
• Beans container capacity (oz): 8.8
• Water container capacity (l): 1.4L
• Grounds container capacity (n): 10
• Energy class: A
• Max cup height (in): 5.5
• Input power (watts): 1450W
• Rated voltage/Frequency (V~Hz): 220-240 V / 50-60 Hz

Unboxing and setting up the De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker

My initial impression was that the box the Rivelia came in was big and heavy. So much so that I had to laugh off my awkward exchange with the courier. Do I really need to up the ante at the gym?

The De'Longhi team had showcased the new-to-market coffee maker when I visited their headquarters, but I couldn't quite remember how big it was until I unpacked it at home. The top part of the packing carton contained some components, including two hoppers for your coffee beans, and the milk-frothing attachment. There's also some literature including the service manual and other marketing pamphlets.

Thankfully, once the machine had been taken out of the box, I was relieved to see that it could sit well on my countertop, adjacent to my coordinating mushroom-colored refrigerator.

The instruction manual is on the slim slide, but that's where the magic happens! I usually dread setting up coffee machines (even the best small coffee makers can be fiddly) but this is like no other small kitchen appliance I've used before. It's modern and futuristic and the Intuitive 3.5" LED color display takes you through step-by-step instructions, (first asking you to choose your language) with visual graphics and text prompts on how and to finish setting up the machine.

For the most part, the coffee maker chassis has been put together, all you need to do is set the time, fill the water tank (and pop the water filter in), remove the protective lid off of the bean hopper, and ensure the bean bin is properly locked into place.

I filled the hopper with beans from a local independent roastery, but you can fill this with any variety you like. Amazon Fresh Direct Trade Rwanda beans, for example, have over 30,500 4.3-star reviews.

The machine then proceeds to run some rinses to clean and heat up to temperature. It instructs you to place a 0.2L container under the spouts. The general tone is really pleasant and dare I say, I really connected with this type of coffee maker configuration, versus a mass-produced pamphlet that comes with 2D pictograms and is written in several languages. So far, so good for this small kitchen appliance!

The De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker also comes with a pH stick (more water test strips can be bought through De'Longhi via Amazon) so you can test the water hardness level. You then submit feedback to the machine and it adjusts your brewing experience for you depending on how many red squares you see on the strip.  I live in an urban area, so I selected level four).

Once all the "boring" stuff (I say in inverted commas as I was secretly impressed), the machine will confirm that you can begin to make drinks. Honestly, it didn't take long at all so you don't need to carve out part of a day to set up the coffee maker. Though you might want to postpone seeing your pals while you run through the 16-drink menu while on a caffeine high.

Using the De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker

"The technicalities are done. Let's get to know each other" the machine reads. Immediately, I'm really feeling the friendly tone of this coffee maker. It's personable and practical.

Having had a sneak peek of the machine in Italy, I spoke to Plamena Stavreva, global coffee marketing manager at De'Longhi about this. She says: "We devoted our efforts to creating a rich in-screen experience that guides consumers through a seamless and user-friendly experience."

In the first instance, the machine takes you through a 16-drink coffee menu, showing you how to swipe through the different options. There are also size and strength options so that you can tailor the drink to your taste.

Amongst the selections, there are short drinks (ie: espresso, espresso lungo, 2x espresso, espresso macchiato, and cortado options), your usual selection of black coffee beverages (Americano, long black, your standard black), milky drinks (hot milk, cafe latte, cappuccino, flat white). And most surprisingly, this also doubles up as one of the best iced coffee makers too, making cold espressos and Americanos (which are signified by the cube of ice by their respective icons).

If your choice of coffee changes from morning to afternoon — fret not. With the coffee routine function, the De'Longhi Rivelia will remember how you like your coffee throughout the day, and update the menu.

And, if you're not the only coffee lover in the house, you can create up to four profiles (names and all) and set up each individual's preferences. You can choose what character you'd like to be, plus add your name under the smiling emoji.

Making espresso

I began testing the De'Longhi Rivelia's coffee-making abilities on a sleepy Sunday morning. So it made sense to begin with the shortest drink: An espresso. But before the machine gets to grinding, it will always heat some water to heat everything up (so make sure you've got a cup or container handy).

After this — and in totally extra style — I placed a clear cup (similar to these De'Longhi double-walled espresso glasses on Amazon) on the drip tray and selected a single shot of coffee. The display confirmed my decision and managed my (eagerly-awaiting) expectations throughout the whole process. It informed me that it was grinding the beans to order, and brewing the coffee. There was even a progress bar to demonstrate its advancement, with an option to stop or cancel the order at any time.

As well as hearing the grinder, the LED screen also displays a graphic depicting coffee being extracted. They haven't missed a trick on the experiential side here! FYI, once every drink cycle has finished, it'll let you know your drink is ready.

The short shot had a good head on it. What we call crema in the coffee world. It stood up to coffee I'd had in independent chains. You know, the type where the Barista knows your name and your back story. 

Making a long black

I think my love for strong coffee came from when I lived in Australia. The Aussies sure know how to serve a cup of Joe. I remember drinking my first long black down under. If you find an espresso too strong, but an Americano falls flat — this is the perfect middle ground.

There are two differences between an Americano and a Long black. Usually, less water is used for a long black (resulting in a stronger drink), and with your LB, your water goes into the cup first. On the contrary, Americano is brewed by pouring hot water over the espresso. Same, same, but different.

As I mentioned earlier, in the settings menu, you can customize your cup size, and strength and even add another espresso shot to your order using the 'MY Function' (more on this below). So with a bit of trial and error, I crafted a cup that was tailored to my preferences. A 'Strength 3' was too weak for me, but a 'Strength 4 with added shot' was a little overwhelming. Three, with an extra shot? Now you're talking. On finding the sweet spot, the machine will ask whether you want to save your setting for next time.

Making a milk-based drink

I'll be honest. I'm not a white coffee drinker, so I left cappuccino and flat white coffee until the end. It's only usually my sister who takes hers with milk, but this is a machine that can please everyone. On selecting a milk-based drink option, the machine will ask you to insert the LatteCrema hot carafe. Note, that you'll need to fill it with milk first, as it'll be ready to rock from the get-go. I liked that there were markers on the carafe to indicate how much milk you needed per serve. For perfect hot foam, use milk or plant-based drinks at refrigerator temperature. For reference, I've gone for 4% (whole/full-fat) dairy milk.

Similar to the preparation of a long black, or espresso, the De'Longhi Rivelia manages your expectations throughout the process. Here, you'll see a milk graphic displayed on the screen to let you know that the milk frother is in action. It'd then proceed to brew espresso which stains the milk ever so stylishly.

One critique I have is that the tray could be a little wider. I have double-walled glass cappuccino mugs (similar to these on Amazon), and it was a bit of a tight squeeze. Personally, strength 3 (with an extra shot) was on the weak side for me, so I'll go into my profile and adjust that for next time. 

Making an iced coffee drink

While you might not think of making cold coffee with the Rivelia, this machine can also become an iced coffee maker. To make a iced black Americano, I first needed to decide whether I would like my drink cold (six cubes of ice) or extra cold (10 cubes), before the machine brewed coffee into my glass. Though I practically downed my drink (a testimony to how tasty it was), I felt as though the strength was appropriate and took into account the amount of ice used.

Using the Bean Adapt Technology

This feature configures the machine to your coffee bean's roast level, so you can extract the best flavor. Before doing this, the machine recommends that you make at least three coffees using the same grinder position (it's preset to '5' when you take it out of the box). It will then ask you whether you're using 100% Arabica or an Arabica-Robusta blend, and to select the roast type (light, medium, dark, extra dark). If your packaging doesn't state it, the coffee maker has a logic for you to compare your beans against, with different shades of brown.

You'll be asked to brew and appraise an espresso (by choosing one of three options to feedback to the machine). Essentially, it asks whether you found the coffee balanced, too weak, or too strong. Because you've got two interchangeable hoppers, you can even name your bean profile in the system. I also recommend getting a portable label maker (like this Phomemo one from Amazon) to create removable stickers for your coffee bins.

Using the MY Function

I'm the type of girl who will pay a little extra for a third shot. So having a drink the way I like it (without paying the 40-cent surplus), at home, is always going to serve well. In your profile, you have the option to choose from a 1-5 sliding scale (for intensity) and choose whether or not to add an extra shot. During the brewing process, you can also add an additional shot part-way through the process.

Using the Coffee Routine function

Italians typically drink their milky coffee in the morning, and for stronger stuff in the afternoon. But we're not in Rome now, so you can have it your way. Rather than swiping through all 16 options, the De'Longhi Rivelia can learn your sipping schedule. Yes, you can teach it to streamline and only show certain options in the morning, noon, or evening). When you're not in profile mode, you can also filter your menu by pressing the coffee or milk icons. The bean button will only show black drinks, and the milk will show white coffee drinks (or hot milk to kickstart a cup of cocoa, perhaps?).

Switching off the machine

The machine has been configured to perform a rinse before and after making your coffee, ensuring that it's clean for the next use (and that you won't taste old, rancid coffee from the last brew). It'll then shut down after a short standby period.

Cleaning the De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker

Having a fully automatic coffee maker is one thing, but as soon as they create a self-cleaning machine — count me in. I joke. The De'Longhi Rivelia coffee maker is quite good at letting you know when it needs a little maintenance now and again.

In testing, I went through quite a lot of water, and coffee beans and this device was intuitive in informing me when the bin was full or when the tank levels were low.

As this is a machine that doesn't rely on a human filling the portafilter, this actually makes the whole experience more tidy. I'm not spilling ground coffee and the spent pucks in the bone-dry which is a relief to my clean-conscious husband who used to hate finding brown stains on our white worktops.

The drip tray and waste bin pull away easily and can be cleaned with dish soap and water. When cleaning my kitchen appliances, I tend to reach for something without a strong fragrance like the 365 by Whole Foods Market unscented washing-up liquid (available at Amazon)

Is it right for you?

If design is important to you, and you want to remove the risk of over or under-extracting coffee beans, this machine is for you. It's also great for anyone who has a smart home as the LED displays and preference center is pretty cool!

The extensive menu means you only need this one machine to replicate all of the drinks you'd usually pay a fortune for. Not to mention, the aesthetic appeal and personalization are great conversation starters when you have guests over. Sounds silly, but I love seeing the little remarks made when my drink is complete. "Just how you like it" and "This is my best one yet" are messages I've picked up over the process.

In fact, I traveled all the way to Treviso, so let me give you Dario Grasselli, Design director at De'Longhi's final word on it. 

He says: "With its ability to remember your preferences and customize your coffee, the Rivelia makes for the perfect kitchen coffee companion. Its soft, curved shape and lack of sharp edges, encourage users to approach it with a sense of calmness and serenity, enhancing your everyday coffee experience,"

"Along with smooth round lines and matte surfaces, the Rivelia has soft rubber touchpoints, translucent materials for key components like water, coffee, and milk, and a user-friendly display that understands your every need. The Rivelia is specifically designed to offer users a natural interaction with their coffee machine, transforming it from a regular black box, into a colorful and warm companion that delivers a one-of-a-kind coffee experience at home."

Where to buy

How we test

As well as being gifted this machine, I was invited to the De'Longhi factory in Treviso, Italy to get hands-on experience with the brand's machines and observe its manufacturing processes. Here, I got the opportunity to spend three days with the brand to ask them about the Rivelia.

At home, I tested the machine for a couple of weeks, focusing on the following criteria, and asking myself these questions:

Packaging: How well are the machine and accessories protected in transit? Do the parts come wrapped in unnecessary amounts of plastic?

Weight: How easy is it to carry from my front door to the kitchen?

Setup: How easy is it to assemble the machine (if applicable) and make a coffee? How long does this process take? Does it require instructions?

Brew quality and grind: Here, I make each drink and assess the strength, bar pressure, extraction, and time it takes to make each drink.

Noise levels: Is this machine quiet enough to make coffee in the morning, without disturbing co-habitants and neighbors?

Size: Can the machine be used in a small kitchen? How tall is the machine and is there adequate counter clearance for it to sit underneath cupboards?

Features: Are the programmable settings helpful? Does the milk frother foam milk consistently and satisfactorily each time?

Cleaning: How easy is it to maintain this machine? Are coffee stains wipeable? Can the drip tray and waste bin be removed easily? Which parts are hand-washable or dishwasher-safe? How easy is it to descale this coffee maker?

Kourtney Kardashian's glass coffee mugs are an inspired choice, especially for someone like me who can't stop buying a random assortment of cups to drink my java from. 

We might not have the same budgets for decorating our homes, but we're both the eldest and have slightly edgier modern design tastes. Therefore, I always like to scope out what she's adding to the rooms of her house. 

The most recent find that is easy to source is her double-walled glass coffee mugs, which appeal to my two-lattes-every-day personality. Not only am I a coffee lover, but I also love a good coffee mug. My current selection is a mash of handpainted giant blue mugs with fishermen on them, a few cups with memes, and finds from traveling. It's messy, but I have a feeling these sleek, double-walled vessels will bring some order to my cabinet.

These are the cute coffee cups Kourtney Kardashian uses

According to her site Poosh, Kardashian works the Williams Sonoma Double Wall Glass Coffee Mugs into her morning and evening routines. So you can sip your coffee or tea of choice in the morning and wind down with some mushroom cocoa or wellness drink at night. Sign me up!

What makes them even more perfect is their transparency. A lack of color means they'll fit squarely into any home style, whether you're a fan of boho or more minimalist kitchens. The transparent material also makes it easy to see if your honey has full dissolved or if your matcha powder is sinking to the bottom.

They're also a safer bet for anyone who's been scarred by ultra-hot mugs in the past. Nothing is more painful than grabbing a cup from body rather than the handle. With this specific mug, you can do either without a problem. The double-wall insulation cuts out the chance of burning your poor palms.

If you pop a cold drink into the glass, you won't have to sweat the resulting condensation. These expertly-designed iced coffee mugs won't leave you with dripping sides and rings all over your coffee table. They're even dishwasher-safe if you put them in on a gentle cycle. It's easy to see why Kardashian has these in her daily routine — and they're certainly being added to mine.

Shop similar clear coffee mugs like Kourtney Kardashian's

Like the look of these mugs? I've rounded up a few more mugs that are near-identical to the William Sonoma glasses Kardashian uses if you're wanting to weigh up all your options.

You're all squared away with cute cups at home now. But what about when you need to take your caramel macchiato on the go? These best travel coffee mugs have your back when you're in a rush.

The Ninja Pods and Grounds Coffee Maker is the caffeine conciliator in the home. Hear me out. You might love the routine of grinding fresh beans and brewing a hot cup of joe, but maybe your partner prefers the ease and convenience of a pod. And sometimes you like to mix it up with a stronger brew topped with a rich milk foam. So you have three coffee makers — a basic drip machine, a pod coffee maker, an espresso machine — and zero counter space. Sound familiar? It’s definitely been my life.

Thankfully, Ninja came down from the coffee heavens to put an end to the multi-machine life. The Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker can brew both pods and grounds, and it can use each in one of four brewing options. From a plain black coffee to a shot of strong coffee concentrate for lattes, it can do it. The brand couldn’t leave out iced coffee fans either. There’s also an iced option that brews a stronger coffee so you don’t have to drink lukewarm coffee-tinted water.

Ninja thought of everything and somehow fit it all into a slim single-serve coffee maker that not only has a small countertop footprint but also has each accessory cleverly integrated into the actual machine. Your coffee scoop snaps into the side, while the brew basket and pod adapter live in a storage garage right below.

What I thought of the Ninja Pods and Grounds Coffee Maker

I definitely went into this testing process curious about how even the best small coffee maker could possibly do both pods and grounds well. Those seem like totally different coffee-making processes to me, and, typically, I don’t love the taste of joe from even a top-of-the-range pod coffee maker. It’s just not strong enough.

But Ninja nailed it. Whether I’m making the specialty shot or just a cup of black coffee — both methods are delicious however you decide to use this coffee maker. This machine was designed to do it all well. It’s not a pod machine that happens to be able to be a good drip coffee maker or vice versa. Ninja set out to do everything equally, and it achieved this. The milk frother seems like a special treat. I’m used to a milk frother on my premium espresso maker but on a coffee machine? What a delight. 

It’s also super simple to swap in between both the pods and the grounds, and I love that each accessory snaps into this innovative coffee maker itself. There are definitely a lot of pieces — there have to be to brew two different kinds of coffee grounds, yet I found them all easy to switch out and clean. While I like to think I’m incredibly organized, even I can misplace things on occasion. Still, I actually can't with this machine. I just snap the brew basket or pod adapter right back into the machine, and, voilà, it’s waiting for next time. 

And then there’s the footprint. This slim machine barely takes up any room on my countertop, so not only did I get to trade in several machines for one, but I also saved space. Even the frother folds in, saving even more space. When you have a small kitchen, you know that every inch matters, and it feels like whoever designed this knows the tiny space life. 

But how’s the coffee? Solid. I’m picky about my coffee makers because I nearly always add milk to hot coffee and, if that coffee isn’t strong enough to hold its own against the milk — I’m out. Ninja knows how to brew a strong cup of coffee. Between the rich selection for when I just want to add a touch of cream to the specialty 4-ounce concentrate for when I want to go all in on a fancy coffee drink with frothed milk, I’m set. And, seriously, I cannot get over the fact a normal coffee maker has a milk frother — a good one at that. 

Clearly, I’m a fan of Ninja and of consolidating my coffee makers, so let’s get into the finer details. 

Testing the Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker

Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker specifications

• Model name: Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker
• Dimensions (in.): H13.31 x W5.51 x L13.07
• Weight of machine: 6.23 lbs.
• Water capacity: 56 fl. oz.
• Voltage: 120 volts
• Amperage: 6.23 amps
• Wattage: 1500 watts

Unboxing and setting up the Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker

The Ninja pods and grounds specialty single-serve coffee maker came snuggly packed within one box with molded cardboard keeping it in place. It wasn't excessively packed, and it was easy to remove from the box.

The machine arrived assembled, with only a few pieces like the drip tray that needed to be put into place upon arrival. There were lots of stickers there to let you know exactly what each piece was, and though I was cursing them throughout the removal process, they were absolutely helpful in guiding me through the machine. I’d rather the stickers than try to match up a diagram, so I’ll pick my battles. 

To get the machine up and running, the instructions tell you to run one 24-ounce classic cycle. A few minutes later, I was ready to start brewing.

How to use the Ninja Pods and Grounds Coffee Maker

From the very first steps of making coffee with the Ninja, I was in love. Give me organization, and I’m happy. Being able to snap the coffee scoop off the side of the machine and see on the handle exactly how much to scoop? Perfection. Using the storage bin to choose the brew basket or the pod adapter? It doesn’t get any more convenient.

Then, once you’ve decided whether you’re going pods vs. ground coffee, you get to enjoy one of the smart coffee maker features that I love the most. It makes the process foolproof. 

Making pod coffee

If you put a pod in, the capsule lights up, and it will not let you make more than 12 ounces of coffee. The options simply don’t light up. But, don’t worry, podsters, you can still make all of the brewing styles even with the pods. You can use any K-cup pods (hey, Amazon) with this machine. One issue I ran into, however, was that it doesn't take a reusable K-cup. Could this contend with even the best Keurig coffee maker? It got me thinking.

You can make anything from a 4-ounce specialty coffee, which is a rich coffee concentrate that is ideal for lattes to 12 ounces of black coffee to 10 ounces of strong, rich coffee to 18 ounces of iced coffee (as good as from our favorite iced coffee maker, FYI), and everything in between. The options are endless. Once you’ve selected your style and size, and then pressed brew, you should expect about two to three minutes from start to finish. It’s super simple, and you’ll watch the progress bar on the top make its way across the screen from left to right as you brew.

Using the milk frother

The milk frother, while a huge plus for me, does have a few quirks. First, it is simply a frother. Don’t expect it to heat your milk. This is frothing and frothing only. But it works! It works even with skim milk, giving it a beautiful, foamy texture. To froth milk, however, you have to hold the button on the top down continuously. I kept releasing my finger, and then it would stop, and I’d have to press down again. It takes a little bit to get the hang of it. 

Lastly, the directions literally tell you to remove the milk frother while it’s above your cup so you can carry it to the sink. This is, of course, exactly what you should do to avoid a mess but, for some reason, it made me laugh. It seems like common sense, but I love that Ninja put it out there so we don’t have milk-splattered counters running rampant.

How to clean the Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker

When it comes to cleaning this coffee maker, Ninja saved the day by making several of the parts for this machine dishwasher-safe. You can throw the brew basket, permanent filter, pod adapter, water reservoir, frother whisk, nozzle, and smart scoop all in the dishwasher when it’s time to clean them. The storage bin and brew basket will have to be hand-washed, but, hey, things could be worse, right?

When it’s time to descale your machine, the machine will illuminate orange, telling you it’s time to clean. To run the clean cycle, you’ll fill the water reservoir with 16 oz. of white vinegar (from Amazon) and 40 oz. of water, remove the cup tray, and place a vessel that can hold 56 oz. beneath the nozzle. Place either the brew basket or pod adapter in the machine. Press the clean button, and the 75-minute clean cycle will begin. 

After it runs, you’ll hear a beep. At that point, it’s time to wash the water tank, fill it back up, and run a 24 oz. classic cycle to flush the machine. Roughly 90 minutes later, you’re back in business.

Is the Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker right for you?

If you and your partner or roommate can’t agree on whether you want pods or grounds, or if you like the flexibility of having both options then the Ninja® PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker can’t be beat. The ability to brew either pods or grounds — and brew them both well — is not something you see in most machines. Add in the 4 oz. specialty option and the milk frother, and you have a machine that can do it all.

The slim profile also makes it a no-brainer for small space dwellers. You can’t beat its space-saving ways. Is there anyone who wouldn’t like it? If hot steamed milk is critical to your morning coffee or you prefer a true espresso, then this might not be your machine.

If however, you're on the look out for similar machines, browse the below:

Good to know

Instructions
The Ninja® PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker comes with an instruction guide that walks you through each brewing process.

Warranty
A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker.

Where to buy the Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker

The Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker is available to buy directly from the retailer, via their Amazon storefront, or through retailers like Crate & Barrel.

How we tested the Ninja pods and grounds coffee maker

We have a set process for our reviews at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the coffee maker.

The Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker was sent to me by Ninja, and I tested it out daily for several weeks before writing this review, brewing everything from the specialty 4 oz. with grounds to 12 oz. of classic with a pod to 24 oz. of rich with grounds. And, because I drink my coffee with milk and sugar, and my husband prefers his black, I got the full experience of testing its capabilities daily. I’ve continued to use the machine and will keep this updated if my thoughts or opinions on the coffee maker change.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill and, most importantly, is easy to remove (can it be removed at all?) and whether it’s easy to clean.

Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? 

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker, I observed how well both the grounds and pods functions work, as well as how the frother compares to other frothers.

With most coffee makers currently on the market, you just get coffee. Maybe there’s a setting to put it over ice on some, or perhaps you can throw in a hot chocolate pod in others. But the options are limited, to say the least. Unless you're willing to fork out $1,000 and sacrifice a whole load of countertop space (and cleaning time, that is). The Bruvi coffee maker, on the other hand, decided to give you all the options — and how it does it is basically magic. Oh, and it costs $350 and is nice and compact to fit into all kitchens, tiny or gigantic.

As someone who tests these appliances for a living, you could say I have high standards for single-serve coffee makers and pod machines. I’m not going to prioritize convenience over quality, and, if I have to sacrifice flavor just to get a quick cup of coffee, I’m out. Luckily, with Bruvi, I don’t have to. The espresso rivals any I’ve gotten from a manual machine, and it’s so much easier than grinding beans, measuring out the espresso grind, and then tamping it down. It’s quick, easy, and delicious. And the cold brew option! What a dream, especially on hot summer days. It doesn’t come out cold, but it does come out lukewarm, which means it will get ice cold quickly with a few cubes, rather than watering down. A total game-changer.

Here's what else I loved about this coffee maker while I reviewed it at home, using it to get my caffeine fix every day for a couple of weeks.

What I thought of the Bruvi coffee maker

I know I keep going back to its looks, but the Bruvi looks so chic on my kitchen counter. So much so that someone DM’d me on Instagram after spotting it in the background of a photo I posted. They wanted the details on “that gorgeous coffee maker.” It's also a nice and compact coffee maker for smaller kitchens, or if you don't want your appliance to take up a bunch of unnecessary countertop space.

This thing is modern through and through, from its styling to its capabilities. It uses what they call B-Pods®, which deliver 40% more coffee (awesome!), but, even better, the machine reads these pods for auto-optimized brewing. That means you pop in a pod, and, if it’s an espresso pod, Bruvi tells you it can make an espresso or an americano, gives you the size, strength, and temperature options, and you’re on your way. If it’s a coffee pod, you can make hot coffee or turn this baby into an iced coffee maker or cold brew machine — which I’m sipping on at the moment. 

Do note that it's not compatible with Nespresso pods or any other coffee pods besides Bruvi, however.

This machine is also incredibly easy to set up. As in, there's practically no setup. It comes fully assembled so all you have to do is take off a few stickers, pop in the charcoal filter, and run a clean cycle. Then you're good to go. It's also super easy to clean. Plus, thanks to its hygienic brewing system, the only cleaning that's necessary is a quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth if there are any splashes, hand washing the pod bin, drip tray, and water tank every few weeks, and then descaling every two to three months.

Testing the Bruvi Single Serve Coffee System

Bruvi coffee maker specifications

• Model name: BRUVI® Single Serve Coffee System
• Dimensions (in.): H11.5 x W10.2 x D12.6
• Brew Sizes: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12oz
• Weight of machine: 13.2lb
• Water capacity: 70 fl. oz.
• Voltage: 120 volts
• Pump: 15 bar high-pressure pump
• Wattage: 1550 watts

Unboxing and setting up the Bruvi coffee maker

Unboxing this coffee maker felt a little bit like playing with a set of nesting dolls. The box promised an extra protective experience and, sure enough, it was. There was a box, then another box, then a carton, and then, finally, a tote bag, which held the beautiful new coffee maker.

While I was a little annoyed I'd have to haul all of this back to my recycling bin when I took the coffee maker out of the tote bag, I instantly forgave them. It comes totally set up and assembled. It could not be easier. And, hey, I've used that tote bag for groceries multiple times since. Win-win, right?

I removed a few stickers and popped in the water filter. Once it was plugged in, I ran a quick cleaning cycle, and we were good to go.

How to use the Bruvi coffee maker

The Bruvi is full of options, but they make the whole process so easy and intuitive. First things first, plug it in and fill the water tank with cool, filtered water. Then, pick a pod. There are 12 different coffee pod options available currently, and I tried the Wonderland De la Casa, Wonderland Dancing Spoon,  Mulholland Roasters Colombia (available via Amazon), and Mulholland Roasters Ethiopia (available from Bruvi). Personally, I love a darker roast, so I preferred the Wonderland pods, but my husband, a light coffee drinker, usually springs for the Mulholland pods. 

Here’s where it gets fun. You pop your pod in, and Bruvi ’s auto-optimized brewing scans the pod and presents you with your options. This may sound weird, but there’s something friendly about the touchscreen. Maybe it’s the font, the colors, the icons, the spacing — it all just works and makes for the best experience.

Let’s say it’s 7 am and you choose a Mulholland pod. You want a straight-up cup of black coffee. But you also want it steaming hot and strong, and you want a lot of it. Great. You’ve got all of those options. You can choose ‘Hotter’ to get a 200°F brew, stronger, and 12 oz. 

Now, let’s say it’s 3 pm and you need an afternoon pick-me-up. You choose one of the Wonderland pods, pop it in, and decide that cold brew sounds right. Press cold brew, then maybe decide you want it stronger and low acid. Hit start and your cold brew begins brewing. It will take longer — 7.5 minutes to be exact — given the way the cold brew is brewed at a lower, lukewarm temperature, but it’s worth the wait. And it’s a heck of a lot faster than making cold brew overnight. Don’t expect that cold brew that’s so dark and thick it’s practically a meal, but this will get the job done. It’s impressive, especially considering Bruvi is possibly the first pod coffee maker that can produce cold brew.

Meanwhile, if you want a refreshing iced coffee, that’s brewed using both hot water and cold water, rather than a consistent lukewarm like the cold brew. Again, you can select your size, so maybe you choose a 6 oz. iced coffee so you have plenty of room for icy, frothed milk. Does it get any better for an afternoon coffee? No, no, it does not.

One more note to make on brewing, particularly if you’re making multiple cups in a row, Bruvi has a hygienic brewing system. That means the coffee never actually touches the inside of the brewer and there’s absolutely zero flavor cross contamination.

Making espresso using the Bruvi coffee maker

Making espresso with the Bruvi is super similar to brewing a cup of coffee. Pop in your espresso pod (which, reminds me, I need to reorder ASAP!), then you’re given your options. Obviously, I always go for the stronger option and the 3 oz. option. Bigger is better when it comes to caffeine, IMO.

While there’s little crema, you can’t beat the ease of making espresso with a pod. Most mornings, I’m in a rush (someday I’ll be that leisurely, relaxed morning routine girl — but, currently, not the case). If I can save myself the five to ten minutes it takes to grind beans, tamp, and wait for the espresso machine, I’m in. The flavor is strong and it’s perfect with some frothed milk. Note: You'll need to shop for a good milk frother as there isn't one built in. 

Also, while I didn’t try the matcha latte pods, those are an option, too!

How to clean the Bruvi coffee maker

Every six cups, you’ll need to empty the pod bin. And, while this might seem obvious, both my husband and I made the same mistake the first time we emptied it, so I feel obligated to tell you. Take the drip tray out before you remove the bin. Otherwise, it’ll crash on the floor and startle you. Use this as the opportunity to rinse the drip tray, which takes just a minute and should be done once a week.

Using warm water and mild dishwashing soap (e.g: something like Seventh Generation Free and Clear from Amazon), you should rinse out the pod bin, drip tray, and water tank every few weeks. Never put these in the dishwasher.

Every two to three months, you’ll need to descale the machine. You’ll know it’s time when the americano and 1 oz. icons blink together. Handy.

Because of the hygienic brewing, the Bruvi seems to stay pretty clean. You can unplug and wipe the machine down with a wet microfiber cleaning cloth (again Amazon's great for these), but, despite being bright white, mine still looks as good as new after nearly a month, and it hasn’t been cleaned yet (I’ll let this serve as my reminder that it might be time…).

Is the Bruvi coffee maker right for you?

If you love the convenience of pods, but also truly enjoy the taste of coffee and want a good cup, then the Bruvi is for you. Add in the flexibility of different types of coffee, from a basic cup of brewed coffee to cold brew to iced to espresso to americano, different customization options, including low acid, stronger, and hotter, and multiple sizes, and this is an easy-to-use machine that gives coffee connoisseurs the options they want. 

And, hey, if you love a beautifully styled machine, this is one that will add a modern touch to your kitchen.

If you're not sure whether it's the right coffee maker for you, here are three other pod machines we've tested (and we love):

Good to know

Instructions
The Bruvi coffee maker comes with both an instruction manual and a quick start guide. I opted for the quick start and it got me to my first cup of coffee in minutes.

Warranty
A one-year warranty from the date of purchase is included with the Bruvi coffee maker.

Where to buy the Bruvi coffee maker

The Bruvi coffee maker is available to buy directly from the retailer (use code OMG150 for $150 off), or via their Amazon storefront.

About this review — and the reviewer

We have a set process for our coffee maker reviews at Real Homes. As is the case with all products we review, we match the reviewer with the coffee maker. 

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

• Unboxing: We review the product’s packaging how well it protected the product during shipping and how sustainable it is. This might include, for example, how much Styrofoam it contains, as well as how easy the machine’s setup is.
• Operation: How reliably and consistently does the machine perform? How loud is the coffee maker?
• Beverage quality: Considerations are made to the overall quality of the beverages produced. We looked for issues like watered-down beverages and evaluated beverage temperature and consistency.
• Ease of use: In a nutshell, we overall experience of using the machine, including factors like how easy it is to remove and fill the water tank, how simple it is to understand the settings, and how easy it is to fill, insert, and remove the filter holder.
• Ease of cleaning: With cleaning being such an important element of maintaining a machine like an espresso maker, it's important to focus on how easily the components can be removed and maintained for long-term use.

I’m always on the lookout for budget-friendly living room ideas because let’s be honest, homeware is expensive. Like, who has the funds to drop a couple hundred dollars on a new armchair, rug, or cans of paint? 

An easy trick to give your apartment or dorm a mini facelift, though, is an eye-catching coffee table book. Placed on a table, bedside, or bookshelf, it’s gonna give your space that aspirational vibe, and they’re a good read, too. 

Whether your aesthetic is colorful and bright, or more minimalist, there are plenty of gorgeous coffee table books — in fact, I think you’ll struggle to pick just one! Here, I’ve found nine books that are beautiful inside and out on everything from fashion and interior design to gardening and cookies, all under $40.

Espresso makers are often big and bulky, making them impractical additions to kitchens with limited space. The Casabrews espresso machine solves that problem. This compact, sleek machine easily fits underneath cabinets and takes up minimal counter space.

While the machine lacks some of the extra accessories that other, larger kits include, it makes up for that in its overall ease of use. A pressure gauge helps you to spot issues that might affect the quality of your brew, and the machine gives you the ability to alter the one and two-cup setting sizes to your preferences. An ideal choice for espresso newbies or those looking for an espresso maker ideal for a small kitchen, this compact machine puts in a solid performance.

Here's what else I discovered about this machine while using it at home in my kitchen for a couple of weeks...

What I thought of the Casabrews espresso machine

If you’re looking for a sleek, stylish, and simple coffee maker, you’ll find all of those features in the Casabrews Compact 20-Bar Espresso maker. This machine is compact enough to easily fit in my smaller kitchen, and its silver color is a natural fit for my kitchen décor. I could see this machine being a good fit for kitchens with limited space, apartments, and even offices or dorm rooms.

This espresso machine has limited features, but that’s also part of its appeal. It isn’t overwhelming to use and is a good choice for families that need to make just an espresso or two at a time. It’s a strong introductory option for an espresso drinker investing in their first machine.

Testing the Casabrews espresso machine

Casabrews espresso machine specifications

• Model name: Casabrews Compact 20-Bar Espresso Maker with stainless steel milk frother
• Dimensions (in.): H11.97 x W5.9 x L12.28
• Reservoir capacity: 34 ounces
• Weight of machine: 10.45 pounds
• Voltage: 110-120 volts
• Cord length: 36 inches
• Wattage: 1350 watts
• Accessories: 1 and 2 cup double-wall filter basket, coffee grind measuring scoop and tamper, manual, portafilter
• Available colors: Black, silver

Unboxing the Casabrews espresso machine

The Casabrews espresso machine arrived well-packed and sustained no damage during shipping. The packaging did include two large pieces of Styrofoam which stabilized the machine during shipping.

How to use

The assembly process is simple, and the instruction manual and quick start guide feature detailed and clear diagrams. There is a plug under the bottom of the water tank that must be removed, and the tank easily locks onto the back of the machine. Individual components, like the tray and the portafilter, were individually wrapped and packaged. Unwrapping the accessories took just a few minutes, and the machine was set up and ready to use.

Casabrews instructs you to use the machine to make hot water before brewing any espresso. While I carefully followed the instructions, I encountered an issue where the machine seemed to operate but didn’t produce hot water. I emailed the Casabrews customer service department using the email address included in the instruction manual and received a response within a few hours. After exchanging several emails, Casabrews offered to send a new water tank but also suggested that I try repeatedly removing and reinserting the tank. After removing and reinserting the tank five times, the hot water function worked, and I have not had any problems with the machine since.

Part of the appeal of the machine is the fact that operating it is as simple as pushing a button. While the machine does have a pressure gauge, it’s included more as a guide to help you identify if there are problems, like if you’re using coffee grounds that are too fine.

To get started, you’ll power on the machine and wait for it to preheat. That process takes about 20 seconds, and the flashing indicator lights turn solid to signal the machine is ready to use.

The included scoop and tamper make it easy to load the portafilter. The portafilter comes with a one- and two-cup filter basket, so you can choose the right option based on how many espresso shots you want to prepare. I found that the portafilter easily locked into the machine, and I didn’t even have to hold or stabilize the machine while inserting the portafilter.  

Making espresso using the Casabrews espresso machine

To make espresso, I just pushed the one- or two-cup buttons on the machine. The machine produces a preset amount of water, so you don’t have to stand by and monitor it. I also appreciated that the setting produced consistent espresso, and the drinks weren’t watered down.

The espresso temperature wasn’t optimal, though. While I followed Casabrews’ recommendation to preheat the cup, the espressos that I brewed reached just 135 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, in comparison to the 158 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures that the label states are possible with cup preheating. I found the temperature still plenty hot, but if you’re someone who likes a truly hot drink, this might not be the machine for you.

I was impressed to find that the machine gives you the ability to set the volume for the one- and two-cup settings. One-cup volume setting options range from 1 to 2.37 ounces, while the two-cup volume setting options range from 2.7 to 4 ounces. You can save your setting preferences but also have the ability to revert the machine to its default volumes.

The machine’s operation is relatively quiet while making espresso. At the loudest, it registered 58.4 decibels. I think you could make espresso without disturbing someone who’s sleeping in a nearby bedroom.

Steaming milk using the Casabrews espresso machine

Using the in-built milk frother is a much louder process, reaching 79.2 decibels. I found this somewhat painfully loud, and it would almost certainly wake up someone sleeping in a nearby bedroom. Since the machine doesn’t include a milk frothing pitcher, I used a large mug. The milk was well-frothed, though pouring it from one mug into another didn’t give me much control.

One significant downside to the machine’s construction is that the espresso setting won’t operate right after you’ve used the steam function. This is a disadvantage, especially if you plan on using the machine to prepare several drinks at a time. While you can run the hot water function for at least eight seconds and then use the espresso function, this makes for an extra, inconvenient step.

Cleaning the Casabrews espresso machine

Casabrews includes detailed instructions on how to clean each component of the machine. The machine’s exterior wipes down well with a damp sponge. The accessories, like the drip tray and drip plate, can be hand-washed.

The steam wand features a steam tube that can be easily unscrewed for cleaning. Casabrews has also included a cleaning needle tool that can be used to remove residue from the hole of the steam wand.

Casabrews notes that the machine needs to be descaled after 500 brew cycles, and all of the indicator lights will flash five times to signal that it is time to descale the machine. That signal will appear during every startup until you cancel it.

To descale the machine, you will need to fill the water tank with water and a descaling agent. Then, you will need to run the two-cup setting repeatedly. Finally, you will repeat the process using clean tap water to finish cleaning the machine.

Is the Casabrews espresso machine right for you?

The Casabrews Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine is a good choice if you’re looking for a simple, user-friendly machine that saves space on your counter. It’s ideal for kitchens with limited space, and its operation, while somewhat basic, would be appealing to many more casual espresso lovers.

Because the machine lacks the ability to set temperature and pressure, it’s probably not an ideal fit for true espresso connoisseurs. The lower temperatures, while hot enough for me, probably won’t please someone who likes their drinks extra hot.

This espresso machine could be a good entry-level machine or a nice second machine for an office. Its loud operation means it’s probably not a great choice if you want to prepare espresso while others are still in bed. It includes minimal accessories, so plan on purchasing items like espresso cups and a milk frothing pitcher if you don’t already have them.

If you're not sure that this is the right coffee maker for you, then see some more that we recommend just below...

Good to know

Instructions
The set includes a user manual and a quick start guide with clean, easy-to-understand diagrams.

Warranty
Casabrews offers a one-year limited warranty on the machine.

Where to buy the Casabrews espresso machine

The espresso machine is available directly through Casabrews. It is also available on Amazon and via Walmart. 

How we test coffee makers

As with all of our coffee maker reviews, we follow a strict set of guidelines to ensure we're comparing each machine fairly. These are:

Unboxing: We evaluate the product’s packaging and how well it protects the product during shipping. We also considered how sustainable the packaging is, including how much Styrofoam it contains, as well as how easy the machine’s setup is.

Operation: When looking at the machine’s operation, we consider factors like how reliably and consistently it performed, how loud it is, and how well it worked. 

Beverage quality: We also consider the overall quality of the beverages produced. We look for issues like watered-down beverages and evaluate beverage temperature and consistency.

Ease of use: Here we look at the overall experience of using the machine, including factors like how easy it is to remove and fill the water tank, how simple it is to understand the settings, and how easily it is to fill, insert, and remove the filter holder.

Ease of cleaning: With cleaning being such an important element of maintaining a machine like an espresso maker, we also focus on how easily the components can be removed and maintained for long-term use.

I love coffee. I used to be a barista for six years, I drink it every single day, and I love the ritual of making it and enjoying a cup. So when I was given the opportunity to review the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Coffee Maker, I was excited! It comes in six colors, and I chose lavender (my favorite!). 

When I make coffee, it’s typically in my Chemex pour-over coffee maker. It’s been quite some time since I’ve used an automatic filter coffee maker where you get to just push a few buttons and get nice, hot coffee. I was looking forward to the next morning to test this out, so I excitedly washed everything, read the user guide, and went to sleep dreaming of all the beautiful coffee I’d be enjoying the next day.

TLDR: What I thought of the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker

Like other small kitchen appliances in Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful line, this coffee maker also features a touch-activated display with no dials, buttons, or knobs. While this makes for a pretty sleek look, it ends up being a bit confusing to operate. I had to read and re-read the instruction guide several times and still ended up cycling through different “buttons” (again, they are LED buttons, not physical ones).

Once I got it to work, it did make a nice pot of coffee. I had some friends over, so I went with 12 cups, which comes out to 12 scoops of coffee. Note: the coffee scoop is included. Although the coffee tasted great, I have some major concerns. The top of the machine got seriously hot. I used my laser thermometer (what, you don’t have one of those?) and it read out at a concerning 189 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of this and the difficulty of using it, I chose to give this coffee maker 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Testing the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker specifications

• Model number: #19017
• Size (in.): H10.78  x W12.95 x L17.44
• Weight: 4.87 lbs
• Watts: 1200 W
• Capacity: 14 cups
• Price: $59
• Colors: 6
• Accessories included: Reusable gold filter basket, charcoal water filter, and measuring scoop

Unboxing the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker

The coffee maker comes in a cute and colorful box with a lovely little photo of Drew and a message from her that reads, “Make Something Beautiful.” (When Drew Barrymore tells you what to do, you do it!) 

The packaging is fairly minimal. It was sandwiched between two contoured pieces of cardboard and wrapped in plastic. Included in the box is the coffee maker, reusable metal coffee filter basket (no paper ones required), a charcoal water filter, and a plastic coffee scoop.

Before getting started, it’s advised to clean the coffee maker with hot, soapy water. The guide also asks that you run two full pots of regular water to flush out the system. In total, this took me about 20 minutes, since I waited for the machine to cool a bit before the second cycle.

On the touchscreen, there’s a clock you can set (this resets to midnight every time it’s unplugged FYI), an option to turn the beep sounds off, different programs and strengths, and the Brew/Off button. After all the setup, you add in the charcoal water filter inside the machine, which I thought was a fun addition.

Using the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker

The Beautiful Coffee Maker works pretty similarly to other machines. You lift open the lid, measure out your desired amount of water in the carafe, and pour it into the machine. There are tiered levels inside the water reservoir to indicate the volume in cups. 

After that, you take out the coffee filter. It’s important to note that this is made out of a reusable mesh, so you don’t need to buy disposable paper filters — a win financially and environmentally. The coffee basket also has a flat bottom and a handle so it’s easy to lift out of the machine and set it on the counter while you add in your coffee.

The included coffee scoop corresponds to the amount of water, e.g. if you want eight cups of coffee, you measure out eight cups of water and add eight scoops of ground coffee. Once it’s filled, you pop the basket back into the machine and you’re ready to go… almost. The charcoal filter doesn’t like to stay put after you add water, so I had to push it back down and quickly close the lid.

There are three options for brew strength: Regular, Gourmet, or Bold. I like a lighter cup so I went with a Regular. After it’s done brewing, the machine switches to a Keep Warm mode that can count up to four hours, and if you end up making it that long, it will sound twice before it switches off.

Cleaning the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker

This machine was pretty easy to clean. The instruction manual recommends cleaning after every use, which is standard practice for coffee makers. After the machine cools, you’re meant to discard the coffee grounds, wash the filter basket and glass carafe with hot, soapy water (or in the top rack of a dishwasher!), and thoroughly dry everything before using again. 

As for the outside of the machine, a simple damp microfiber cloth (available on Amazon) should be enough to wipe away any stains or mess. For more difficult stains, the guide advises using a nylon or plastic pad (like Scotch-Brite cleaning pads) with a non-abrasive cleanser — something I, fortunately, didn't have to do.

There is also a Self-Cleaning function for descaling the machine that is supposed to automatically alert you when it’s required, after 300 uses. The guide walks you through detailed instructions on how to do this process, and it’s said to take between 45 and 60 minutes to complete.

Is the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore coffee maker right for you?

If you’re looking for a standard coffee machine with a big capacity and a beautiful finish, this is the coffee maker for you. It’s relatively affordable at $59, comes in six shades to suit any palette, and has a reusable filter so you don’t have to worry about buying paper ones.

I did find that a combination of all the various settings and a touchscreen-only display made it difficult to learn how to use. The machine is also quite large and may not suit every kitchen space. Lastly, and the most concerning of all, the top of the coffee maker got incredibly hot (almost 200 degrees Fahrenheit!) during brewing. I would definitely make sure you don’t have anything near this coffee maker while it’s on, juuuust in case.

If you're not sure whether this coffee maker is for you, here are some more suggestions that we've tested and rate highly:

Where to buy

Although there is a Beautiful by Drew Barrymore site that hosts all of Ms. Barrymore's range, her collection is available exclusively at Walmart. However, you may find some pre-loved appliances on eBay, too.

How we test

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Coffee Maker was sent to me by Walmart, and I tested it out daily for several weeks before writing this review. I’ve continued to use the machine and will keep this updated if my thoughts or opinions on the coffee maker change.

Here are a few things we to look out for when testing coffee makers:

• Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill, remove (if at all), and clean.
• Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?
• Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?
• Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.
• Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro coffee maker, I observed how well the warming plate worked to retain the temperature of the coffee.

I hate watered-down and lukewarm coffee — so the hunt for the best iced coffee cups benefits *me* as it does you. On a temperature scale, a good brew should be as hot as my head (without my morning caffeine fix) or as cold as my soul with café withdrawals. There is simply no in-between.

Historically, there was no excuse for wishy-washy cold coffee that's hit room temp. Whether you're using a specific iced coffee maker, cold brew machine, or simply adding ice to cooled pod or instant coffee — buying an insulated iced coffee cup can make your drinking experience 1000% times better.

These days, clever designs mean that ambient coffee isn't something you have to accept. Here, I'll show you models that keep your shaken brown sugar espresso near freezing for up to two days. Not that you'll be able to resist it for that long.

But, if you slurp your coffee within seconds and care more about style and functionality, I'm serving up cool cups that check the boxes for these preferences too. Heck, some of these can even be personalized. So from Starbs-branded vessels to containers that are designed to fit under your favorite coffee maker, I spill the beans on the best iced coffee cups to invest in.

12 of the best iced coffee cups to start your day in style

Pricing is accurate at the time of publishing

Iced coffee cups we've reviewed

Other highly-rated iced coffee cups

Things to consider when buying an iced coffee cup

You won't do yourself any favors by picking up any ol' iced coffee cup, so next time you're out shopping (or browsing online) consider the following:

Size: Will it fit the volume of coffee you'll want to drink? Most iced coffee cups range from about 12-24 fluid ounces.

Cleaning instructions: Many iced coffee cups come with special finishes or are made from glass/plastic that can warp in the dishwasher. Make sure you know how to clean your cup to avoid damaging/breaking it.

Special features: Some iced coffee cups come with vacuum insulation which will keep your coffee hot or cold for days. Others have extra-wide straws to enjoy jelly or tapioca pearls. And most, if not all, are leakproof and will fit in your car's cup holder. It's important to buy an iced coffee cup based on your needs, but almost everyone will want a spillproof cup that doesn't leak when using it. 

FAQs

How we tested these iced coffee cups

JYSK, five of the nine selections (that's over half!) have been tried and tested by our team. For the remainder of our edit, we've relied on highly-rated reviews and star ratings from real customers online. Yes, we've literally sieved through and read through post-purchase testimonials people have written.

Real talk: I live for my little treats, and on my lunch breaks that usually means hot girl walks to the closest Starbucks. Since we're being honest, I'll also confess that I spend an embarrassing amount on my sweet, syrupy cold brew drinks, and I regularly sit at home daydreaming and craving an iced chai, refreshing tea, or coffee with sweet cream cold foam. So, I thought it might be smart to invest in a cold brew coffee maker to make my own at home this summer. And I am officially obsessed.

If you're like me and are sick of spending your paychecks on those salted caramel cold brews, then you need to get to know the Shine Rapid Cold Brew. It's def an investment worth making, and you're going to have so much fun creating the perfect drinks and enjoying your little treats at home for the price you'd probs spend within two or three months at your fave coffee shop.

What I thought of the Shine Rapid Cold Brew

I love how versatile the cold brew machine is, and that I can make both coffee and herbal tea infusions to enjoy over the warmer months. Traditional cold brew takes 12 to 24 hours, and there's also a risk of over-brewing. For a novice like me, this machine is perfect for creating Starbies-worthy drinks at home.

However, cold brew coffees and teas are both strong, and personally, I prefer them with some oat milk and honey (or homemade sweet cream cold foam made using my French press). The cold brew process itself takes 10 to 45 minutes, so if you're looking for a quick drink ready with just the push of a button, it's important to keep in mind that this machine requires patience and advanced planning before you enjoy your bevs.

Testing the Shine Rapid Cold Brew

The important stuff

• Model name: Shine Kitchen Co. Rapid Cold Brew Coffee & Tea Machine with Vacuum Extraction Technology 
• Dimensions (in.): H13 x W11 x D7.4
• Carafe capacity: 8 cups/40 fl. oz.
• Weight of machine: 3.7 lbs.

Unboxing and setup

When my Shine Rapid Cold Brew arrived, I was super excited about how lightweight and compact it was. Upon unboxing, I found a sleek, minimal design and was also happy to see that the filter is totally reusable. However, every element was individually wrapped in plastic, and the machine arrived encased in a styrofoam-style material. The exterior was recyclable, but the extra packaging sadly wasn't. 

With that being said, setting up the machine was a breeze. It's super intuitive, and with the help of the manual, my cold brew was in progress within a few minutes (after cleaning the water chamber and carafe, ofc). The Shine Rapid Cold Brew is minimal enough to tuck away in a kitchen corner and only needs the push of a button to start up.

Making coffee and tea

Fill the water up to your desired number of cups as marked on the water chamber. I personally use giant mugs at home, so I opted to fill the chamber using two of my full cups. The instructions say to allow for one scoop per cup of your cold brew, but I've really enjoyed experimenting with this and found that a little less tea creates the perfect cup for me.

Then came the cold brewing process with vacuum seal technology, and besties, this is where I discovered the machine's biggest drawback. This thing is loud, and it's loud for a long time. We're talking my puppy's head tilting back and forth growling at this machine, Netflix volume on blast to distract from the noise — and since I opted for a medium-strength brew, the sound lasted for 15 minutes.

Cleaning the Shine Rapid Cold Brew

Listen: I'm a certified, self-confessed lazy girl, so anything that involves easy and minimal cleanup automatically wins major points in my book. The Shine Rapid Cold Brew is beyond easy to take apart, and after shaking out excess coffee grounds, tea leaves, or spices, it's just a simple hand-wash of the water chamber, carafe, and filters. 

The exterior of the machine can be wiped down with cleaning wipes like these ones from Method as needed, and it even comes with a little brush to dislodge any stubborn pieces from your drink blend from the filters. 

Lay the components out to air dry on a drying rack like this gorgeous one from Urban Outfitters, and you're ready to reassemble and tuck the machine away — easy peasy.

Is the Shine Rapid Cold Brew right for you?

Aspiring baristas, listen up. Having a carafe full of cold brew in your fridge and ready for the mornings ahead is amazing, and you can also pre-make your syrups or your very own Starbucks cold foam dupe if you want. The Shine Rapid Cold Brew cuts down on brewing time, meaning you can enjoy your tea or coffee in under an hour instead of the process taking a day, and it's super-easy to use with clearly marked measurements, simple buttons and mechanisms, and quick cleanup. 

But TBH, if you're in need of a quick boost of caffeine and aren't trying to put the work in with adding and frothing your own syrup, milk, or cold foams, then this isn't really going to be your vibe. Also, due to the noise, this might need a bit of a discussion with your roomies before you bring it to your dorm room or apartment.

Where to buy the Shine Rapid Cold Brew

How we tested the Shine Rapid Cold Brew

The Shine Rapid Cold Brew was sent to me free of charge, and I've had the opportunity to keep the appliance for testing on a long-term basis. So far, I've tried out the vacuum seal technology to cold brew coffee, herbal tea, and chai at home over the past four weeks, and will continue to update this review regularly as I get to see the machine's durability, pros, and cons long-term.

Besties, listen up. It’s (almost) fall, which means that the season of pumpkin spice is once again upon us. Eeek! I’m the OG coffee connoisseur. While I often use a snazzy coffee maker at home, some of my happiest college memories involve sitting in my fave Starbucks with my friend sipping our festively-spiced coffees. While I love a barista-brewed latte as much as the next gal, when you make a daily coffee stop it gets wildly expensive srsly fast.

These days I opt to make my own DIY alternatives (most of the time, anyway), and in case you want to do the same, I've rounded up a selection of all the cutest fall coffee accessories for turning your caffeination station into a fall-inspired one. 

All the cutest coffee-related picks for fall

The Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro could be the go-to coffee machine for those looking for a piping hot cup of coffee — which is surprisingly harder to find than you might imagine. While lattes and espressos are nice, there are some days when you just want a solid cup of coffee, brewed to perfection, and consistently hot every time. You don’t want to mess with fancy gadgets, steamed milk, and making sure the temperature gauge hits the right target.

That’s when you pull out the Ninja. This small coffee maker gets the job done, every time, whether it’s just you looking for a cup of joe before your 8 am Zoom meeting or you’re hosting breakfast for a crowd. Want to feel like you’re running a late-night diner where the coffee’s strong and hot? Again, Ninja’s got you covered.

Quick Menu:
1. TLDR
2. Testing
3. Important stuff
4. Setup
5. Making coffee
6. Cleaning
7. Is it right for you?
8. Good to know
9. Where to buy

This pal is also incredibly easy-to-use — so easy to use that your partner's mom won’t need to wake you up at 6 am when she’s visiting. Better yet, set it on a delay so she’ll walk into the kitchen to find a freshly brewed pot of coffee waiting, and say hello to brownie points. 

It makes a bold cup of coffee in just a few minutes, and its brewing system is so quiet that it won’t disturb those who need that first cup of caffeine before they truly wake up.

What I thought of the Ninja programmable XL 14-cup coffee Maker Pro

The Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker PRO has a small footprint on the kitchen counter and an intuitive design. From the integrated coffee scoop (you won’t have to worry about misplacing it!) to the 14-cup carafe, which has a lid that screws on for no leaks and removes completely for easy cleaning, every detail of this simple coffee maker has been thought through carefully. 

But its biggest draw is that it brews coffee piping hot and keeps it warm for up to four hours. We know everyone has dreams of leisurely sipping on their morning cuppa while it’s fresh, but somehow reality (dogs, bosses, roommates) always seems to creep in and interrupt the caffeinated magic. Thanks to Ninja’s keep-warm function and the ability to warm the pot of coffee back up hours later, you don’t need to sip in a timely manner to enjoy your coffee hot. 

Testing the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro

Important stuff

• Model name: Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro
• Dimensions (in.): H14.35 x W7.87 x L10
• Carafe capacity: 14 cups/70 fl. oz.
• Weight of machine: 6.39 lbs.
• Water capacity: 70 fl. oz.
• Voltage: 120 V
• Amperage: 9.16 A
• Wattage: 1100 W

Setting up the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro

Setting up this coffee maker couldn’t be easier. The pieces just make sense — no engineering degree required. Pop the water tank on, put the brew basket in, and add the carafe. That’s it. Easy peasy. 

The hardest thing you’ll do is remove all the stickers. Thankfully, they peel off without too much of a fight. Set the clock while you’re at it, using the H and M buttons, plus the AM/PM indicator to arrive at the right time.

Before you first use the Ninja for your caffeine needs, you’ll want to wash all the parts, including the reservoir, carafe, brew basket, and permanent filter with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly.

You’ll then want to run a clean cycle, filling the reservoir all the way to 14 cups and running a classic brew with water only. Discard that water, and you’re ready to get started!

Making coffee using the the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro

When you’re ready for your first cup in your new machine, start by plugging it in. Then, fill the reservoir with cool, filtered water up to the desired cup level you want (or need) that day. It will use the total amount of water you pour into it, so don’t pour more thinking you’ll go back for a second pot later. Commit to the pour.

This is where my main critique comes into play. The first time I brewed a pot of coffee, I wanted just four cups. I filled the water reservoir, put the scoops into the brew basket, hit the 1 to 4 cup option, selected rich, and eagerly awaited those sweet drops of caffeine. But when I looked at the pot, it was a light tea color. That’s when I realized — the machine will brew every drop you put in the reservoir. If you only want two cups, only fill to the two-cup line. Otherwise, you could end up with 14 diluted cups using just two scoops of coffee.

Back to making the coffee. Now you’ll put the brew basket and permanent filter into the coffee maker. You can also use a #4 paper filter (available on Amazon) if you prefer. Fill it with coffee grounds using the integrated scoop, with the measurements right on the handle. Four cups needs two Ninja scoops, 10 cups needs five Ninja scoops, and so on. I would go with slightly more than recommended. For me, an extra half scoop or scoop was perfect for four cups.

Make sure the brew-through lid is securely attached to the carafe by turning it clockwise to lock it into place, then set it on the base, under the brew basket. Press Classic for a smooth, well-balanced cup, or Rich for a richer brew that’s still smooth. Wait for that precious liquid to start flowing.

*I’ll note that I didn’t notice a huge difference between Classic and Rich, though both were delicious!

Can’t wait a moment longer? The mid-brew pause lets you grab a cup without worrying about disrupting the brewing process, and the Hotter Brewing Technology assures you’re getting a steaming cup of joe.

The freshness timer will start counting as soon as the pot is made (never wonder how long it’s been sitting again!), and the coffee maker will automatically turn on the warming plate for two hours after brewing. However, you can adjust it up to four hours, and you can always warm it up again later. No questions asked.

How to clean the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro

When cleaning a coffee maker, you should always wash the permanent filter after every brew, either with warm, soapy water or on the top rack of your dishwasher. The carafe should be rinsed out, and it can also go on the top rack of the dishwasher. The water reservoir should be washed weekly.

But here’s the thing. All of the Ninja’s pieces are separate. That means they’re SO easy to clean. Each of the major pieces comes apart and they’re all dishwasher safe. Don’t put it off. Just wash ‘em.

And you know how some coffee makers have a carafe with a lid that won’t stay open? They just flip-flop all over the place, and you can never truly rinse the carafe out. There’s always some water stuck inside, and you have to prop the lid against something to keep it open in the hopes that it will evaporate. That will never happen with the Ninja, thanks to the carafe’s lid unscrewing completely. 

Wipe down the rest of the machine with a damp microfiber cloth (I like this Amazon Basics set), and run a clean cycle whenever the machine seems like it’s taking longer than normal.

Is the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro right for you?

If you’re looking for a basic, strong cup of coffee, you’ve met your match. This coffee maker brews 1 to 14 cups of solid classic or rich coffee, ready to either drink black or doctored up with a bit of cream and sugar. And, if you struggle with drinking your coffee quickly, say hello to the warming function. The ability to not only keep the coffee warm for four hours but warm the pot back up is clutch. 

Good to know

Instructions
You’ll find a super straightforward owner’s guide that will walk you through how to set up your machine, how to clean it before and after use, how to brew a cup of coffee, set the delay function, and use the warming plate.

Warranty
The Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro comes with a one-year warranty.

Where to buy the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro

 This machine is also available to buy directly from Ninja for $99.95. 

How we test coffee makers

The Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro was sent to me by Ninja, and I tested it out daily for several weeks before writing this review, brewing everything from 1 cup to 14 cups. And, because I drink my coffee with milk and sugar, and my husband prefers his black, I got the full experience of testing its capabilities daily. I’ve continued to use the machine and will keep this updated if my thoughts or opinions on the coffee maker change.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

• Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I assess whether it’s easy to fill, remove (if at all), and clean.
• Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?
• Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?
• Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.
• Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker Pro coffee maker, I observed how well the warming plate worked to retain the temperature of the coffee.

The DeLonghi Clessidra coffee maker is a game-changer for pour-over coffee lovers like me. You see the thing is, I appreciate the flavor of a slow brew, but when I have friends over (or am working from home), those small-scale solutions don't quite cut it.

Also, I find that with most pour-over coffee devices, I often need to have a good kettle nearby to make the goddamn cup. Surely there'd be a solution to this manual dilemma? Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Clessidra.

Quick Menu:
1. TLDR
2. Testing
3. Important stuff
4. Unboxing
5. Setup
6. Making coffee
7. Cleaning
8. Is it right for you?
9. Where to buy
10. How we test

With its hourglass body (snap, girl), this machine is a little like the Technivorm Moccamaster in the sense that it heats the water and brews so there's no need to boil the water with another small kitchen appliance. As well as being a pour-over and drip coffee maker, it also triples as an iced coffee maker. Feature-wise, this is one of the best small coffee makers for those who like to switch it up.

So if you fancy a ménage à trois (get your head out of the gutter, I'm talking coffee makers!), then this is a worthwhile investment. Give it around five minutes and you'll have 10 cups of freshly-brewed coffee. Just bring the goss and you've got a great brunch guaranteed.

What I thought of the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

All in all, the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker is a great 3-in-1 machine for those who like to dabble between pour-over, filter, and iced coffee-making techniques. It has a relatively small footprint, making it easy to pop in the corner of your kitchen worktop and is relatively modern in terms of design. The two-button operation is super simple, and while it doesn't have a timer or clock, the auto shut-off and keep-warm functions are received well for their ability to save energy and remake another pot. The carefully considered temperature range ensures coffee is not burnt and stops over-extraction (which can lead to bitterness).

Testing the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

Important stuff

• Model name: De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker/ICM17 series
• Dimensions (in.): H13 x W11 x D7.4
• Carafe capacity: 8 cups/40 fl. oz.
• Package weight: 7.7 lbs.
• Weight of machine: 5.38 lbs.
• Water capacity: 42 fl. oz.
• Mains voltage: 220–240 V ~ 50–60 Hz
• Absorbed power: ICM17210: 1800 W

Unboxing the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

Before opening (or "unboxing" as all the cool kids call it), I tried to guess how much plastic, polystyrene, and paper it would come with. I have to say, these days, brands have become more conscious and I'm pleased to say De'Longhi is one of them.

Aside from the molded pulp that kept the machine in place, the coffee maker came wrapped in a plastic bag, as did each accessory (the scoop, filter, and filter holder). For hygiene reasons the size four paper filters came in plastic — but perhaps in the future could come in a cardboard sleeve. De'Longhi I'm giving you that one for free.

Setting up the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

Popping the parts together was significantly easier than any other coffee maker I've built before. For one, the water tank comes pre-assembled onto the body, you just need to pop the lid in place. This does come with some limitations, however. It means you either have to have a jug or a vessel of water nearby. Or drag the machine to fill it under your faucet. Personally, I think the best thing to do is invest in a good water filter (I have the ZeroWater, which you can find on Amazon). 

Cleaning the machine before use: Ultimately, this has come straight from the factory, but in order to really clean it, you'll want to replicate the brewing process without coffee. Repeat the process (a total of two times), rinsing the glass jug with clean cold water each time.

Of course, I'll take you through everything I think you should know below, but for anything else you need to know instructions are also available online. This includes troubleshooting and how to dispose of the appliance responsibly once it has reached the end of its life.

1. Plug the De'Longhi Clessidra into your power outlet.
2. Turn the lid counter-clockwise to unlock and remove it.
3. Pour 40 fluid ounces of fresh water into the water tank up to the max level.
4. Replace the lid and turn it clockwise to lock it in.
5. Push the SCA Golden Cup button (F) to prime the machine.
6. Once the machine has emptied the water into the carafe, repeat steps 1–5.

Once you're done with the cleaning cycle, all you have to do is fill the compartment up top, place a size four filter into the filter holder, and use one scoop of coffee per cup of coffee. Push the carafe into the rear of the machine (you'll see a button at the back that needs to be depressed, and clicked into place). BTW, these Amazon Basics filters are under $4 for 100.

Making coffee using the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

Generic instructions for all coffee types

All three coffee processes start by placing a paper filter inside the plastic filter holder, placing this inside the glass carafe, tucking the carafe into the main body, and filling the water fill compartment with fresh water. You'll need one scoop for every cup of water. The minimum serve is two cups (so two scoops of coffee) and a full carafe will require 10 cups (10 scoops of ground coffee).

Day to day, I use a bean-to-cup coffee machine with a built-in coffee grinder on a medium-coarse setting, but you can always just use pre-ground coffee for ease. Sometimes if I'm feeling super lazy (or don't want to wake my husband up), I'll pre-grind some beans and then store it in one of my OXO Good Grips POP containers, which are airtight and lock in all the flavor.

The machine will beep once to signal the start of the brewing process, boil the water (warning: this gets very hot), dispense coffee via the showerhead, then bleep again when it's done. Don't mind those clicking noises (IMO, they are annoying), as they're part of the process.

If you do happen to remove the jug before it's finished fully brewing, this won't interrupt the cycle (phew)! Just be patient and replace it until the cycle has finished. You do need to remove the filter holder before pouring your coffee. 

How to make drip filter coffee

This is by far the easiest option. Get a headstart by following the generic instructions above, then follow the guide below:

Instructions:

1. To make drip filter coffee, you want to tap the high-quality brew function (on the left) once.
2. The water will start boiling and you'll hear a clicking noise which will signify that the showerhead is now opening to wet the grounds and make your coffee.

How to make pour-over coffee

Instructions:

1. To make pour-over, you want to tap the iced coffee button (on the right) twice.
2. The water will start boiling and you'll hear a clicking noise which will signify that the showerhead is now opening to wet the grounds and make your coffee.

How to make iced coffee

Making iced coffee is super easy! By following my three-step guide below, you can have coffee over ice without hitting up Starbs or any other chain or indie store. As a black coffee purist, I love this drink made with Taylors of Harrogate Lazy Sunday blend and nothing else, but I've used the Monin gourmet flavorings coffee collection syrups from Amazon in the past. This five-pack includes bottles of gluten-free, non-GMO caramel, amaretto, French hazelnut, Irish cream, and vanilla.

Or, if you really want to recreate that at-home coffee house experience with this iced coffee maker, grab a pump bottle of the Starbucks vanilla-based sweetener (again from Amazon) and some Starbucks Blonde roast ground coffee. 

If you prefer a smoother brew, you might want to find out the differences between iced coffee and cold brew.

Instructions:

1. Fill the carafe to the max with ice (extra kudos if you're using one of our favorite ice cube trays)
2. Fill the water tank to the halfway point (5-cup mark only as it'll be diluted by ice).
3. Push the ice button and it'll make your chilled beverage.

FYI — as the machine is known for its consistent water temperature, don't be surprised to see the vessel "reheat" the water a couple of times to get it to that golden temperature range I talked about.

Keep-warm plate

Obvs, don't try this at home, but I wanted to test out the hot plate (and I promise I only touched it to take this pic, Mom).

Annoyingly, you do need to activate it after percolation (aka after your pour-over or drip coffee has brewed). To do this, press the "high-quality brew button" (the one marked "F" in the image above on the left) to keep your coffee warm for 40 minutes. Not that my coffee lasted this long, but it did keep it at a great drinking temperature for some time.

FYI, you do have to remember to turn it off (by pressing the same button, or the pour-over button ("G," or the one on the right).

Filter holder base
Unlike the TikTok-famous Technivorm Moccamaker, which I've also reviewed, the filter holder sits inside the glass carafe with a handle to easily place it in and out. This component itself is quite unique in the sense that it has a button that opens/closes (like a valve). I found that this led to fewer messes and coffee stains on my worktop. But at the same time, it isn't groundbreaking (see what I did there?). I could just pop the filter straight into my kitchen trash can.

How to clean the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

One cool feature that the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker has is the anti-drip system. In short, it means that the drip filter coffee maker stops dispensing when the jug has been removed from the heating plate. Great for reducing messes and the risk of burns.

One slight ick from me is that the carafe and accessories can't be placed in the dishwasher. Fortunately, I was able to handwash these components with dish soap and water in no time.

The main body can be wiped clean with water and a microfiber cloth. Annoyingly, you'll see that I attempted to remove the SCA-approved sticker, but that's gonna take a bit more picking (and maybe some label-lifting solution like Goo Gone from Amazon). But I won't lose sleep over it.

Descaling the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker

Once in a while, you'll want to clean your coffee maker thoroughly by descaling it. How often will be determined by how hard the water is in your area, as limescale deposits can build up over time, affecting the taste and purity of your coffee. Thankfully, the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker will remind you when it's time for maintenance when two buttons (F) and (G) in the pictogram I referenced up top flash simultaneously. FYI, according to the brand, this happens approximately every 60 cycles. But, if you notice a white, chalky film, you might want to descale your appliance then and there by pushing and holding the two buttons together for two seconds to activate this option. Of course, De'Longhi recommends you use its own-brand solution to do this.

Instructions on how to descale the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker:

1. Pour 3.4 ounces of De’Longhi descaler in the water tank and add fresh water up to the max line.
2. Place the empty carafe on the warming plate and hold both the F and G buttons for two seconds. The descaling process will begin.
3. Once the descaling cycle is complete the lights on the two buttons will turn off
4. Rinse the machine by following my "cleaning before first use" instructions.

JSYK, if you don't clean your coffee machine, it will invalidate its warranty.

Is it right for you?

Yes, if you enjoy iced coffee and well-brewed coffee. Steer clear of this if you live on lattes and flat whites as this doesn't come with a milk frother. It's also not the best for girlies who like short and sweet espressos as this makes a black Americano as the default drink.

Good to know

Warranty
There is a 12-page, A5 booklet warranty and service booklet that comes with the coffee maker, explaining what is included in the post-purchase care and general information on your consumer rights. Details are printed in an impressive 26 languages with 83 international authorized service centers should you require further assistance. 

Registration prompt
Document-wise, you get a 4-inch by 6-inch piece of paper prompting you to register your machine. This also guides you to the De'Longhi site where you can purchase descaling solution, discover coffee recipes, access hints and tips, and look at the FAQs that other customers ask. In a bid to keep up with tech, you can also scan the QR code on your phone to take you directly to the site.

Warranty card
Also included is a four-page-long De'Longhi warranty card. One side of the card is meant for you to keep, and the other is addressed (stamp required) to send to its warranty processing center in Hong Kong, China. Once you've filled out your personal info, you simply cut this side, fold it along the serrated line and send it off.

FAQs

Where to buy

This machine is available to buy directly from De'Longhi for $169.95. 

How we test

The Clessidra coffee maker was sent to me by De'Longhi where I tested it for a prolonged period before writing this review. I drink coffee at least twice a day, so it was very thoroughly used ahead of this review. Because De'Longhi kindly allowed me to keep this machine, I will keep this review updated as I continue to use it in my home kitchen (that is, when I'm not testing other coffee makers). Where there is an opportunity to do so, I will also test it against other similar machines.

Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing coffee makers:

Packaging: Is the machine packaged sufficiently so that it is not damaged in transit? What materials does the brand use to package its items? Is the amount of plastic appropriate? Is the appliance housed in a box that is suitably sized?

Water tank: When looking at the water tank, I'll assess how easy it is to fill and if it is removable.

Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Are the prompts/buttons legible? If the machine makes a sound, is it clear to understand what is happening?

Type of coffee: What type of coffee does this machine take? Is it an appropriate volume for the resulting beverage? How much waste is left after the drink has been made?

Cleaning and descaling: How easy is it to provide maintenance for the machine? This may involve anything from removing coffee stains to getting rid of limescale.

Functionality of features: Here I may look at any standout features. In the case of the De'Longhi Clessidra coffee maker, I observed how well the warming plate worked to retain the temperature of the coffee.

Pods vs. ground coffee? Where do you stand on the caffeine-related pendulum? Taste, time, and cost all come into account when you're judging the different types of coffee. But which is your mode d'emploi on morning coffee break? And, after reading this guide — will you be tempted to shake things up?

We'll go over which is speedier to make, the one that wins the flavor test, and how much you should expect to pay for each. You'll be pleased to know that you don't even need a coffee maker for one of them. Spoiler: It's the ground coffee. One thing's for certain. Both give you an energy boost (it's my pre-workout essential) and are a great excuse to invite friends and family over. But whichever you use, make sure you drink your coffee in style with one of our best coffee mugs.

Quick menu
Pros and cons of pod coffee
Pros and cons of ground coffee
Quality of coffee and taste
Equipment needed
Cleaning
Storage and longevity
Where to buy coffee pods
Where to buy ground coffee
FAQs 

Pros and cons of pod coffee

Pros

• Consistent quality and taste
• No barista experience necessary to tamp ground coffee
• Stays fresher for longer
• Time-efficient to use
• Easy to transport on vacation

Cons:

• Upfront costs of pod coffee maker
• Strength can't be altered
• Some pods aren't recyclable
• Some pods are specific to machine type
• Sometimes more expensive than ground coffee

Pros and cons of ground coffee

Pros

• Freshly ground coffee has a stronger aroma and tastes better
• Freshly ground coffee is full of antioxidants
• Better mouthfeel and consistency (because of the natural oils present)
• Coarseness/grind size can be customized for French Press, percolators, flat-bottomed drip coffee makers, and Moka coffee makers.

1. Quality of coffee and taste

I personally have a great relationship with my local coffee roasters. And although I own one of the best bean-to-cup coffee machines (read my Breville Barista Max coffee maker review), I sometimes still buy the pre-ground stuff, to remove one step from my coffee-making process. You see it's far quicker (and less noisy) *not* to use the built-in grinder when I want my go-go juice.

They take their job super seriously, so always stamp the date they roasted and ground the beans on the packet, as well as let me know which country the li'l coffee cherries came from (and the apparent tasting notes of caramel, chocolate, and red fruit). My coffee-roasting friends will often advise that I use the product within one month of the date on the pack. Easy!

When I've bought pods in the supermarket (to test the best pod coffee makers), I seldom have this knowledge (including how long it's been stacked, slowly going stale). NGL, I also don't have that same rapport with the staff in the supermarket as they pass through my items on the conveyor belt.

 "For coffee aficionados, the aroma and taste of freshly ground beans are unparalleled," says Chris Diamantakis, co-founder of Pure Joy Coffee. "Grinding coffee beans releases their natural oils and preserves the flavor profiles, resulting in a more nuanced and aromatic cup of coffee."

"Ground coffee also allows for customization, as you can adjust the grind size and experiment with different brewing methods to extract the perfect flavors that suit your palate."

Winner: Ground coffee (IMO)

2. Equipment needed

We've all used ground coffee before. But, when I asked the team what their definition of coffee grounds was, some of us were divided on #brewgate.

Ground coffee (to most people) is essentially roasted beans that have been macerated with the best coffee grinder (either at home, at your local coffee house, or pre-processed in the way by the food manufacturer). From here on, depending on the coarseness, you can use it in a bean-to-cup machine, drip filter coffee maker, or use a French press to make your cup of joe.

Instant coffee on the other hand is described as freeze-dried soluble coffee with finely ground roasted coffee. To make it, you'll add 1 teaspoon (0.06 oz) to 6.5 fluid ounces of boiling water (drawn from your best tea kettle).

Whereas coffee capsules require a pod coffee maker that you insert the cap into. Pod coffee makers don't require pre-boiled water. They will bring your H2O to temperature, then extract the coffee in a matter of minutes.

"Pod coffee machines have revolutionized the way many people brew their morning pick-me-up. Offering speed, simplicity, and minimal cleanup, they have become a staple in countless kitchens," Diamantakis says.

"With just a push of a button, you can have a steaming cup of coffee in seconds. Pods also eliminate the need for grinding beans and measuring proportions, making them a time-saving solution for busy individuals."

3. Cleaning pods vs. disposing of ground coffee

All good things come with a little tidying up. Parties, fancy dinners and, unfortunately making a cup of coffee. These days, however, manufacturers are conscious of their responsibilities after they've handed over the goods.

When it comes to the latest coffee pods, most brands have cleaned up their (socio-environmental) act and created aluminum cases that can be discarded with the rest of your recycling. In many cases, you'll need to give the cartridge a rinse to get rid of any coffee residue, then dispose of it with your paper, card, and other reusable goods.

Wet ground coffee gives me the ick, but needs to be cleaned out of your cafetiere, filter coffee machine, or out of the group head of your fancy small coffee maker. Sometimes it's as easy as removing the paper filter and giving everything a wipe down, but cleaning a coffee machine can be a thankless task at times. Just don't make these coffee machine cleaning mistakes and you're all good!

On the plus side, spent coffee grounds can be used to clean your kitchen and to help keep your garden looking great.

Winner: Pods

4. Storage and longevity

OK, so I may have given pods a bad rap for being on the shelf. But actually, brands are getting better at sealing the flavors into metal canisters. Yes, you can buy spendy ground coffee from a bougie boutique store — but if you're not storing it properly when you get home, it's money poured down the drain.

Improperly-stored ground coffee can lose its flavor quickly, and the natural oils can turn rancid (gross) if it's had too much contact with air (aka oxidation). If you're super serious about coffee, invest in the ZWILLING Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer Machine for Easy Storage (available on Amazon), and don't forget the Food Vacuum Seal Roll. This will keep air and contaminants out of your coffee, which will make it last longer.

Pod coffee storage has taken off on TikTok with content creators demonstrating how they display their coffee discs for all to see (and choose from).

Winner: Pods

5. Sustainability

Being the true expert, we asked Diamantakis to weigh in on the sustainability debate. Because, as much as we love drinking coffee, he knows about the ins and outs of the mighty bean, including the logistics required to bring you your long black.

He says: "Pod coffee machines often come with a wide array of flavors and blends to choose from, providing a convenient way to explore different taste profiles without purchasing multiple bags of coffee."

"However, this convenience comes at a cost, as most coffee pods are made of plastic or aluminum, contributing to environmental waste. On the other hand, opting for ground coffee allows you to choose sustainable options, such as locally sourced, fair trade, or organic beans, promoting both environmental consciousness and supporting ethical practices."

Winner: Ground coffee

6. Cost

"When it comes to cost, the debate between pod and ground coffee can be complex," explains Diamantakis.

"Realistically, pod coffee machines end up being more expensive due to the ongoing cost of purchasing coffee pods. Conversely, ground coffee offers a more economical solution, as buying whole beans and grinding them at home tends to be cheaper in the long run. Additionally, purchasing coffee in bulk often presents cost-saving opportunities for ground coffee lovers."

Winner: Ground coffee

The overall verdict

Diamantakis sums it up perfectly, so we're gonna pass the mic cup over to him to share his final thoughts.

"In the end, choosing between pod coffee and ground coffee boils down to personal preferences and priorities. If convenience and speed are paramount, pod coffee machines provide a quick and hassle-free brewing experience," he says.

"On the other hand, if you value the intricacies of flavor, customization, and sustainability, then the ritual of grinding your own beans and brewing with precision may be the way to go. Ultimately, the perfect cup of coffee is subjective, and exploring both options can help you uncover your preferred coffee experience."

Where to buy pod coffee

I had a feeling you were thinking this, so I did my homework and drafted up a li'l piece on where to buy Nespresso pods online.

Where to buy ground coffee

Personally, I like to frequent local Indie stores on the hunt for good coffee. But if you aren't as lucky (or don't enjoy this IRL experience), here's where you can get your hands on ground coffee. In my humble opinion, it's better to buy whole beans and grind what you need at home, but for convenience, get pre-ground coffee.

FAQs

When it comes to kitchen appliances, especially coffee makers, the key is to find something that's simple yet effective. In my eyes, a good coffee maker needs to be easy to use. Quick and effortless takes the cake — and yes, you really don’t need one with a fancy espresso maker, milk frother, iced coffee feature, etc. if your goal is to have a simple cup of coffee in the morning (or any time of the day, really). 

So, I tend to go for a single-serve coffee maker, as these require the press of just one button usually, and your coffee is ready for you to enjoy within a minute. Talk about convenience. So, when I started testing the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker it was pretty much music to my ears (or whatever the equivalent is for my taste buds) as it's pretty simple to use, with four cup size options and a button that you can press for extra strong coffee. Because Mondays mornings exist.

I’ve tried a few Keurig coffee makers in the past, and I have nothing but praise for every machine I've reviewed from this brand. And surprise, surprise, the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker is no different. It might be the most basic one I’ve tried thus far, but it's perhaps a new favorite because of that. Oh, on top of being simple to use, it'll also look lovely on your countertop as it comes in six colorways. It retails at $149.99, and it has a nice big water tank (unlike other smaller Keurig machines that you need to refill after each cup) to save you time and effort.

Here's what else I loved about it (and why you need to invest).

TLDR: What I thought of the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

Although the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker is a basic model, it can brew a hot cup of coffee in less than a minute. It’s not too complex in terms of its design as there’s no LCD screen. Instead, there are buttons for the cup sizes and brew strength. It’s a bit louder than the Keurig K-Duo that I also tested, but nothing that’ll wake up everyone in your apartment or house.

As I've already mentioned, it has a rather sizeable water tank which means you don't have to refill it often (winning!) and its strong coffee button is a true game-changer. I love how it looks on my countertop and that even though it's quite basic, it still comes in a range of colors.

 Testing the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

The techy stuff

• Type: Single serve 
• Water tank capacity: 52 oz.
• Dimensions: 12.5” x 9.2” x 11.6”
• Weight: 7.4 lb.
• Setting: Button for brew strength, brew size, and auto-off
• Color(s): Matte black, vintage red, oasis, sandstone, matte navy, matte white
• Brews: 6, 8, 10, 12-oz. cups
• Heating time: Three minutes 
• Pressure: Strong
• Water filter: Yes
• Warming plate: No
• Programmable: Yes
• Cord length: 26” inches 
• Warranty: 1 year
• Price: $149.99

Unboxing the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

As with other Keurig machines we’ve tried, the first step is to unbox and assemble. This machine came with a lot of cardboard and plastic/styrofoam wraps on each of the parts (not very eco-friendly), but I digress. Once everything was unwrapped, it was time to get to work. 

I started by setting up the water filter. By this point, it’s like clockwork to set up the filter since I’m so used to it. I got my cup, submerged the pod for five minutes, and then put it in the tube and placed it in the reservoir. 

After that, I filled the water in the reservoir up to the maximum fill line to ensure I had enough to go through for the initial cleansing brew and beyond. It involved plugging in the device, pushing down the needle as if I were using a single-use pod, and then clicking the small cup (6 oz.) size. It took about three minutes for the water to heat up as advertised and then it was ready to go. 

Once the cleansing brew was finished, it was time to brew my first cup. 

 Using the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

The first cup I made was a standard cup of coffee. Unlike other machines, this one is more basic with four buttons indicating the different sizes and strengths. The buttons don’t have anything written on them, except symbols displaying the size. You’ll want to refer to the manual for guidance on the ounces to make sure you’re brewing the correct amount. 

I put in my single-use coffee pod and clicked the small mug (8 oz.) button.  Since I just did the cleansing brew, the water was already hot so my first cup brewed in seconds and was finished in less than a minute. 

I decided to go for a normal brew this time around and it was delicious and exactly how I like my coffee — rich and nutty. 

By this point, the light came on that my reservoir was already in need of more water. I was a bit surprised since I only brewed two cups at this point, but it only took 30 seconds to refill it. 

For my next cup, I decided to utilize the "strong" button for a stronger brew. Now, this was extremely dark — almost too much for my liking, but if you want strong coffee, then this is for you. 

Key features of the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

Smart Start
Most Keurig machines have a Smart Start feature in which you turn on the brewer, place a mug on the removable drip tray, insert a K-Cup pod, lower the handle, and select the brew size. Once this is done, it’ll automatically brew when it’s ready so you’re not waiting for the water to heat. 

Auto-Off
This feature is already set up once it’s plugged in and shuts off the machine two hours after the last brew. If you don’t want this setting on, you can disable it by turning the brewer off while it’s plugged in and pressing down on the strong and large mug buttons for three seconds. The blue light will go off indicating that it’s no longer on. To put it back on, simply repeat those steps again. 

Strong Brew
A stronger brew is achieved with a smaller water-to-coffee ratio. On the Keurig K-Select, there’s a "strong" button that can be pressed to enhance the strength and intensity. 

How to clean and maintain the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

After consistent use, it’ll come time to wash your Keurig machine. The brand suggests powering down the machine and unplugging it before cleaning it. The water reservoir and lid can be placed in a dishwasher or hand washed. If you choose the latter, make sure to thoroughly rinse out the soap so you’re not left with any remnants. Make sure not to use a cloth to dry the inside as lint may linger and affect the quality of the machine.  

How does the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker rate online?  

The Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker was initially sold through Keurig and has a rating of 4.1 out of five stars with reviewers saying it's “great value” and a “good daily brewer.” A few four-star ratings and lower expressed their disappointment with the lack of light in the reservoir and that it's a bit “cheap looking” with the plastic. 

What’s it like in comparison to other Keurig machines? 

In comparison to the K-Supreme Single Serve Coffee maker, both offer 6, 8, 10, and 12-ounce cups of coffee and don’t have the ability to make espressos or lattes. The Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker doesn’t have an iced setting unlike the K-Supreme, however, this one has strength control whereas the other doesn’t. 

For a more thorough list, Keurig has a comparison chart where you can compare models based on price, functionality, and other details. 

Is the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker right for you? 

I think the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker is a suitable option for the people who want a cup of coffee without any fancy machinery. The Keurig in itself is a more savvy coffee maker, however, this version is on the more basic side. It’s similar in size to the brand's other models and is small enough to fit on tiny counter spaces and tucked away into a corner when not in use. If you’re looking for a machine that brews a wider range of sizes or has a carafe for a more old-fashioned brew, then you’ll want to look into other models, like the Keurig K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe. This coffee machine is currently on sale for $139.99 on the brand’s website. However, you can find the same version on Amazon for $109.99 — you’re better off purchasing it there if you want to save 30 bucks. 

I took a look into the Keurig K-Elite single-serve coffee maker to see how it worked, if it brewed a delicious cup of coffee, and whether or not it was worth the price tag. Generally speaking, I’m not one of those people who need coffee every morning, however, when I want a cup I want it to be quick and delicious... cue reviewing this Keurig coffee maker.

While I could look into one of the best all-singing, all-dancing small coffee makers, or even boil a pot of water with a tea kettle to make a cup of coffee, the processes involved with these can be time-consuming. And frankly, I don’t have the patience for that. That’s why I made it my mission to test this pod coffee machine and see whether or not it could be a staple in my kitchen from here on out. 

The K-Elite normally retails for $189.99, but right now it’s on sale for $129.99 — that’s a pretty good deal if you ask me, but what it really comes down to is how well it works. 

TLDR: what I thought of the Keurig K-Elite 

The K-Elite is ideal for those who want a simple cup of coffee made from a standard single-serve coffee machine. Whether you like it hot or iced, this machine allows for versatility with the ever-popular morning beverage. And its intuitive design is optimal for those with morning brain, who don’t have the capacity to think fully at the crack of dawn with its easy-to-click buttons and lighting features. If you’re not looking for a full espresso maker or coffee bar to have in your home, but a more plain and simple coffee maker, then this is for you.  

It’s worth noting that you don’t need to apply much pressure to puncture the pod so don’t slam down the machine. You’ll need to refill the reservoir every so often, roughly every four or five uses depending on how big your cups are. A blue light will appear when your reservoir needs a refill. And since there is an included water filter, the machine will likely have higher longevity than one without, so you’re getting a better bang for your buck.

If you’re looking for a more complex machine, then you’ll want to consider looking into other Keurig makers that have additional features like an automatic milk frother, an iced setting, multi-stream technology, etc. You can also just brew hot water, whether you need it for a bowl of oatmeal, soup, or another recipe. To do this, simply take the pod out of the designated slot and solely brew the water to use — easy as that.

Testing the Keurig’s K-Elite Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker 

The techy stuff

• Type: Single serve/carafe 
• Water tank capacity (oz): 75
• Dimensions (in): H13.1 x W9.9 x D12.7 
• Weight (lb): 8
• Setting: Buttons for brew strength, brew size, temperature control, auto-on, and digital clock display
• Color: Brushed silver, gold, and slate
• Brews (oz): 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12
• Heating time: 3 minutes 
• Pressure: Strong
• Water filter: Yes
• Warming plate: No
• Programmable: Yes
• Cord length (in): 30 
• Warranty: 1 year
• Price: $189.99

Unboxing the Keurig K-Elite

Similar to all of the Keurig’s we’ve tried in the past (like the K-Duo or K-Café Smart), each of the parts, including the machine and water filter, arrives individually wrapped. After they are unwrapped, it takes less than five minutes to put everything together.

For the Keurig K-Elite, the reservoir is found on the left-hand side which has a max fill line to indicate how much water to put inside. Similar to any new appliance, you’ll want to set up the water filter and do a test run, especially for a coffee maker to clean out the insides so it’s ready for use. 

The instructional booklet that came with the machine offered step-by-step guidance on how to do this. But from using similar machines in the past, I really didn’t need to refer to it much because they are all nearly the same in terms of operation and set up at least on the basic level. 

To set up the filter, I soaked it in water for five minutes per the directions, rinsed it thoroughly, and placed it in the filter, which then went inside the reservoir — super simple. 

The cleansing brew for this machine is nearly identical to any other Keurig machine. It runs 8 ounces of hot water through it as if you were brewing a cup of coffee, however, this time you don’t use a pod. The initial heating process took roughly three minutes and after that, it was ready to officially brew.  

Test 1: making a cup of single-serve coffee

Since my reservoir was already filled up from my test brew, I simply placed the pod in the designated area and pushed it down. It didn’t require much effort to push down and it was so quiet that I double-checked if I pushed it down enough (indeed I did). 

For this cup of coffee, I wanted it to be on the strong side. I pressed the "strong" button and then hit the size I wanted — you can choose from 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces. Unlike the K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker, this machine didn’t have the sizes spelled out. Instead, there were little symbols to represent the different sizes, but they are labeled in the instruction manual. 

In terms of the temperature, you have the ability to change how hot it’s brewed. I kept mine at 192 degrees Fahrenheit, but the range varies from 187 degrees Fahrenheit to 192 degrees Fahrenheit. When it was ready to brew, it automatically filled my mug which rested on the drip tray — the process took all of four minutes, which was impressive. 

After a few sips, I didn’t think the coffee tasted too strong despite selecting the specific button. This wasn't an issue because I don’t usually like my coffee strong, but if that’s important to you, you’ll want to try it for yourself to see if it meets your standards. It had just the right amount of flavor and strength for my liking, especially after adding some cream and sugar. 

Test 2: making an iced coffee

Keurig advertises the machine as having an iced coffee setting. From what I can tell, it didn’t have one — unless they meant you could brew the coffee over ice which is how I made my cup. I followed the same process for the hot coffee, but this time filled my mug up with ice before brewing. 

Compared to the previous cup, I preferred the iced coffee because it was more refreshing, IMO. Oddly enough, I didn’t feel like I needed the cream and sugar I typically put into my hot beverage. 

After making two cups, the reservoir was approximately a quarter of the way empty, so it still had some days left before I had to refill it.  Just so you know, a blue light appears on the machine when it’s time to top it up, which is helpful.

Key features the Keurig K-Elite offers

Temperature Control: This feature allows you to adjust the temperature of the coffee being brewed. Whether you like your beverage piping hot or warm, you can adjust the settings to set the temperature anywhere between 187 degrees Fahrenheit to 192 degrees Fahrenheit.

Auto-On/Off: Sometimes it’s easy to forget whether you’ve unplugged your coffee machine with everything going on in the morning. The K-Elite has an automatic shut-off and will turn off two hours after the last brew. You can also program it to turn off in 15-minute increments after the last brew or remain on all the time. A moon icon will appear when "auto-off" is turned on. 

If you want the coffee maker to automatically turn on at a specific time, you can also set that as well. This is indicated by a sun icon. 

High Altitude: Whether you live in the mountains or at a high altitude, that can have an effect on how your coffee brews. This machine has a setting specifically for high altitudes to make sure it works properly. You’ll know it’s on if a mountain icon appears. 

Quiet-Brew Technology: Some coffee machines tend to make a loud noise as they brew, but not this one thanks to its Quiet-Brew technology which reduces the amount of noise.  

How to clean and maintain this Keurig coffee maker 

To prevent unwanted calcium buildup and dried-up coffee grounds, it’s important that you clean your coffee machine every few weeks. The brand recommends hand washing the reservoir and letting it air dry once it’s unplugged and cooled down. To clean the needle, my hack is to put a paper clip in to release any remaining coffee grounds. Then you’ll want to run two hot water cycles. 

How does it compare to other Keurig machines? 

In comparison to the K-Supreme Single Serve Coffee maker, both don’t have the ability to make espressos or lattes. The Keurig K-Elite single-serve coffee maker offers the ability to make hot and iced coffee in a variety of sizes between 4 and 12 ounces.

Keurig has a comparison chart on its website where you can directly compare models based on price, functionality, and other details to help you choose the model that works best for you.

Is the Keurig K-Elite right for you? 

I think the Keurig K-Elite single-serve coffee maker is a great option for those who are simple coffee people. With its single-use function, you can make yourself a cup of iced or hot coffee in minutes. It’s small enough to fit on those tiny countertops and if you aren’t a technology aficionado like myself, then you’ll probably appreciate its intuitive design and lighting effects.

While this coffee machine is on sale right now for $129.99, it normally retails for $189.99. I think it’s a bit overpriced considering the lack of functions, however, it’s a solid gadget that works efficiently and well for your morning cup of joe.  

How does the Keurig K-Elite rate online?

The Keurig K-Elite single-serve coffee maker was initially sold through Keurig and has a rating of 4.3 out of five stars with reviewers saying it’s “easy to use,” “very attractive,” and “tastes superb.” 

A few four-star reviewers and lower expressed frustration about the size of the largest size coffee saying 12 ounces isn’t big enough for many thermal to-go cups. Also, some say that the pump is louder than other models they’ve tried. 

About this review and our reviewer

Casey lives in a small two-bedroom apartment in New York City where she tested this pod coffee maker every day over a couple of weeks. We are sent products to review at Real Homes and are sometimes allowed to keep them so that we can update our reviews after using products for a lengthy amount of time.

For many people, there isn’t a day that goes by when they don't enjoy a cup of java. Now, there’s nothing wrong with an occasional Starbucks trip, but if you’re looking for coffee right at your fingertips, you'll want to invest in a decent coffee maker. I’ve tried my fair share of Keurig coffee machines, but never one that combines a single serve and carafe option in the same unit ⁠— until I was introduced to the Keurig K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker, that is.

This coffee maker is great for anyone who is normally always on the go and wants a quick cup of joe at the click of a button — hello, commuter life. And, as someone who isn't tech-savvy (especially in the AM), this coffee maker satisfies all of those needs and then some. Its intuitive 11-button design takes away the hassle commonly found in more expensive models for a quick and seamless experience. 

I spent a few weeks familiarizing myself with this 2-in-1 coffee maker to see how it fares against other single-serve coffee makers and drip coffee makers on the market. Here's my honest verdict, and everything you need to know before you buy yours.

TLDR: What I thought of the Keurig K-Duo 

Keurig’s K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker combines coffee pods with a classic carafe to make a fresh cup of coffee at the click of a button. It’s simple to fill up the water tank and select how you’d like to brew your coffee and the size you’re looking for. A quick glance over the instruction manual, and you're ready to go. In saying this, it is worth noting that this is one of Keurig's more basic offerings, However, it does exactly what’s advertised.

The auto-brew was slightly more difficult to figure out and semi-delayed when brewing, but not enough for me to say it wasn’t a standout feature. It's now become part of my morning schedule, and I feel like I've "won" a cup of coffee as a reward for getting ready.

Testing the Keurig’s K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker 

The techy stuff

• Type: Single serve/carafe 
• Water tank capacity (oz): 60
• Dimensions (in): H12.92 x W10.94 x D12.76 
• Weight (lb): 10.71
• Setting:  Buttons for brew strength, brew size, and auto-on and digital clock display
• Color: Black
• Brews (oz): 6, 8, 10, and 12
• Heating time: 4 minutes 
• Pressure: Strong
• Water filter: No
• Warming plate: No
• Programmable: Yes
• Cord length (in): 30 
• Warranty: 1 year
• Price: $189.99

Unboxing the Keurig K-Duo

One of the reasons I love Keurig machines is that they are easy to set up. All of the parts come individually wrapped and are pretty much ready to go. I simply had to unwrap them, lift the carafe, machine and filter out of the box, and assemble. It also came with a spoon to measure your ground coffee.

The "unofficial official" first step in the plastic-wrapped (sigh) user manual was to plug in the machine, power it on, and set the time. There was a power-on button with the traditional logo followed by an LCD digital clock screen with the hour and minute which I set by clicking two tiny buttons labeled "H" and "M." Once the time was set, I clicked the “brew” button to confirm my action. 

Keurig provided step-by-step directions on how to do a cleansing brew for both the single cup and the carafe. This involved running 8 ounces of hot water through each part before dumping it out. I filled the 60-ounce reservoir to the MAX fill line and brewed both a single cup into a mug and through the carafe. The initial heating process took about four minutes and after that, it was ready to go.

When using this coffee maker, I liked how there was an indicator light to confirm that the brew was complete. The carafe button even turns red to signal that the heating plate is on so that you can keep your beverage warm instead of diluting it with hot water from your kettle.

Test 1: making coffee using the drip filter and carafe

First, I started by brewing a regular cup of coffee using the carafe. I refilled the reservoir to the maximum fill line and placed it in the rear of the machine. Then, I lifted the filter basket cover up to place a paper filter. The brand recommended one tablespoon of ground coffee per cup. I closed over the cover for the filter basket and placed the carafe on the heating plate. 

With the click of four buttons, it was ready to go. I pressed the power button, followed by selecting the carafe button, then the brew button. The process took all of five minutes, not even to get the coffee brewed and into my mug. 

The best part? The heating plate stays on for two hours after brewing so you can have hot coffee for longer. And, it’s not super loud either. It does make a squeaking noise when heating up for both settings, but nothing that’ll wake up your household.

Test 2: making single-serve coffee

To test the single-cup setting, I used a Joffrey cup I bought at Disney World. For this, I placed my mug on the tray, placed a capsule in, and pressed the necessary buttons.

It’s pretty much the same buttons as the carafe, except you select the pod icon instead. You do need to apply some pressure to puncture the pod when you shut it so don’t be alarmed if you need to use a bit of force. I did this twice, once using the standard setting and then again, selecting the "strong" button before brewing. The stronger setting provided a more intensively-flavored brew, (which isn’t usually my vibe), but I wanted to try it out for the sake of this review.

You’ll need to refill the reservoir every so often (roughly every two days or so), depending on how much coffee you drink. And since there is no water filter, you’ll want to keep in mind that it may have an impact on the longevity of the coffee machine. This could be an element you’ll want to look into and perhaps invest in a coffee machine with a water filter like the Keurig K-Cafe Smart. For more complex drinks, you’ll want to consider alternative Keurig machines that have additional features like a milk frother, an iced setting, multi-stream technology, etc.  

Key features the Keurig K-Duo offers

Smart Start: Keurig’s "Smart Start" allows for heating and brewing without the wait. After turning on the machine and adding in the brew type, you simply select the size and press the brew button. I thought this was a great feature to speed up the process in the morning. Taste-wise, the coffee was how I expected it to be, bittersweet with a strong aroma. It wasn’t watered down or too strong — exactly how I like it. 

Auto-Off: We’ve all been there — myself included — forgetting to switch off the machine and unplug it. Thankfully, this coffee maker has an automatic shut-off for the brewer five minutes after your last brew and turns off the hot plate two hours after. 

Strong Brew: This feature increases the strength and intensity of the beverage. Simply click the button before hitting brew and voila, it's like ordering a double shot at the store.

High Altitude: If you live in an area at a high altitude (above 5,000 feet), you’ll want to make sure your coffee maker works properly. Simply press the mountain icon that’ll pop up after holding down the pod and carafe buttons for three seconds. 

Pause and Pour: If you like your coffee piping hot, this feature ups the water temperature mid-brew without having to wait. 

Brew and Pause: The same idea applies when using the carafe. Simply press the carafe button to pause and resume the brew afterward. I found the ground coffee tasted a little diluted in comparison to the single-use cup. However, after adding milk and sugar, they tasted nearly identical.

How to clean and maintain this Keurig coffee maker 

After spending $100+ on a small coffee maker, you’ll want to keep it in pristine condition. To clean this coffee machine, Keurig recommends hand washing it when it’s unplugged and cooled down. And, when it comes to disposing of your spent products, Keurig’s K Cups are recyclable when you remove the lid and the used coffee grounds (which can be composted).

How does it compare to other Keurig machines? 

In comparison to the K-Supreme Single Serve Coffee maker, both offer 6, 8, 10, and 12-ounce cups of coffee and don’t have the ability to make espressos or lattes. The Keurig K-Duo Single Serve & Carafe Coffee doesn’t have an iced setting unlike the K-Supreme, however, this one has strength control whereas the other doesn’t. 

For a more thorough list, Keurig has a comparison chart where you can compare models based on price, functionality, etc.

Is the Keurig K-Duo right for you? 

If you don’t need a fancy latte every morning then this machine will do the trick. With its single-use and slow-drip options, you can make yourself a 12-ounce cup of coffee or insert a pod for a consistent, individually-sized beverage. It’s small enough to slot into tiny kitchens and if you aren’t techy, you’ll appreciate its intuitive design and easy-to-follow manual.

About this review and our reviewer

Casey lives in a small two-bedroom apartment in New York City where she tested this pod coffee maker every day over a couple of weeks. We are sent products to review at Real Homes and are sometimes allowed to keep them so that we can update our reviews after using products for a lengthy amount of time.

If you're wondering where to buy Nespresso pods — consider your prayers answered. However, I sincerely hope that you haven't committed that cardinal sin. Because according to my commandments: Thou shall never run out of coffee capsules... ever.

I review some of the best single-serve coffee makers on a regular basis in our test center and essentially get paid to ensure I'm fully stocked up to do my job. But IRL, I get it. One day you've got a cupboard full to the brim then *blink* — you've gone bust. 

Rather than using that jar of powdered coffee you'd swear you'd only use in dire emergencies, here are the best places to get your caps shipped in an "instant." Unlike a supermarket or retailer on Uber Eats, most of these places don't require a certain spend to qualify for home delivery. And a few of them are eco-friendly, too, so you won't need to worry about the effect your coffee habit has on planet Earth.

4 of the best places to buy Nespresso pods

1. Amazon Nespresso pods

As well as Amazon home decor, the online retail giant is generally my go-to destination for everything, including Nespresso coffee pods and other shelf-stable consumables I need quickly without leaving the house. Here, you can shop everything from OriginalLine and Vertuo pods from Nespresso's shopfront to Starbucks capsules made using the same quality coffee beans that you can smell in the shop.

2. Target Nespresso pods

You know you've hit the bullseye at Target. The company stocks its own exclusive Nespresso-compatible brand (Good & Gather) as well as some more familiar products, like Starbucks, so you can replicate shop-bought coffee in the comfort of your own home. Now all you need is a TikTok-famous target rug to finish off your cozy cocoon.