Coffee Makers

Coffee maker types

The different types of coffee machines are named for how they brew or release the coffee to waiting users. Drip machines spray hot water on the grounds and allow the resulting brew to drip into the carafe through a coffee filter. This allows users to make several cups at once, depending on the size of the carafe. Single-serve machines, such as Keurig® coffee makers, use pods or ground attachments to brew a single cup of java. These are best for home users who need a quick cup. Specialty types brew the grounds and water together for a short time before releasing the coffee into the carafe or cup. This lets users choose the strength of the brew.

Coffee machine brew capacity

After choosing the best type of coffee maker for home or office, it's now important to choose the brewing capacity. This is how many cups (one cup is 6 ounces) of coffee the machine can brew at one time, and how many people use it throughout the day. A single person who only wants a quick pick-me-up in the morning might opt for a single-serve or one to 3four-cup coffee machine that brews fast and won’t leave unused coffee in the carafe. Large offices should choose a bigger option for the break room, such as Bunn® coffee makers, which brew up to 12 cups and have heating stations to keep one carafe warm while another brews.

Coffee maker features

There are several features that may be included with brewing machines. Choose the ones that best fit the home or office requirements.

• Insulated carafes keep the coffee warm to drink later
• Programmable options allow users to set the device to brew at a specific time
• Brew strength settings so drinkers can create light or strong coffee
• Pause function so the carafe can be removed mid-brew to pour a cup
• Built-in grinders crush whole bean coffee for immediate fresh brewing