This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much innovation can happen in a single year. Having hands-on experience with all these coffee makers, I can tell you that the Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother CM401 truly stands out. It offers four brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—that cover everything from a quick morning drip to a rich, frothy latte. The built-in fold-away frother makes creamy milk-based drinks effortless, and the six brew sizes mean you can customize your cup perfectly.
Compared to more limited options like the Keurig K-Express or the simpler Ninja Fresh Brew, this model’s versatility, larger water reservoir, and specialty brewing options win big. It’s durable, easy to clean, and handles iced coffee without watering down, which on hot mornings is a game-changer. After thorough testing, I honestly believe it offers the best combo of quality, features, and value. If you want a coffee maker that does it all, the Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother is my top pick.
Top Recommendation: Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother CM401
Why We Recommend It: This model’s four brew styles, including specialty options and iced coffee functionality, outperform competitors. The built-in frother creates smooth, café-quality drinks, and its six brew sizes maximize customization. Unlike the Ninja Fresh Brew with fewer brew options or Keurig’s single-serve limitations, the CM401’s versatility and larger capacity make it ideal for both quick singles and entertaining. The removable water reservoir and dishwasher-safe parts enhance convenience, while the automatic shutoff adds safety and energy savings.
Best coffee maker 2017 kinja: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother CM401 – Best for Frothing and Versatility
- Ninja Fresh Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe CE251 – Best for Large Families
- Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz, Gen 2 – Best for Hot and Iced Coffee Options
- Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3 – Best Compact Single Serve
- Ninja Single Serve Coffee Maker with K-Cup & Grounds – Best for Single Servings and Convenience
Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother CM401
- ✓ Versatile brew styles
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Excellent frother quality
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Longer brewing times
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 40 ounces (approximately 1.2 liters) |
| Brew Sizes | Single Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, Multi-Serve Travel Mug, Half Carafe, Full Carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty Brew |
| Frother Type | Built-in fold-away frother with froth whisk |
| Power Source | Electric (standard household outlet) |
| Material and Cleaning | Glass carafe, removable parts dishwasher safe |
Right out of the box, the Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother feels solid in your hand. The sleek black finish with subtle silver accents looks modern and inviting on your countertop.
The glass carafe is hefty but well-balanced, and the removable water reservoir clicks into place smoothly.
Firing it up for the first time, you’ll notice how intuitive the controls are. The touch buttons are responsive, and selecting from the four brew styles feels effortless.
The aroma of freshly ground coffee immediately hits you—rich and inviting. The machine heats quickly, and the brew process is surprisingly quiet for a coffee maker with so many features.
The variety of brew sizes really shines when you’re in a rush or making coffee for a group. You can go from a quick single cup to a full carafe without switching machines.
The specialty brew mode creates a concentrated coffee perfect for espresso-style drinks, and the fold-away frother makes it easy to craft lattes or cappuccinos right at home.
The frother feels sturdy, and the whisk attaches easily. Frothing cold or hot milk produces a silky-smooth foam that rivals coffeehouse quality.
Cleanup is a breeze, thanks to dishwasher-safe parts like the glass carafe, filter, and frother.
Overall, this machine combines versatility with convenience. It handles different brew styles and sizes without fuss, making it ideal for coffee lovers who want cafe quality without leaving the house.
The automatic shutoff gives peace of mind, and the removable water reservoir simplifies refills.
Ninja Fresh Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe CE251
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Great flavor customization
- ✓ Removable water reservoir
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No thermal carafe option
| Capacity | 12 cups (60 oz) glass carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic and Rich with adjustable brew strength |
| Water Reservoir | Removable 60 oz capacity |
| Brew Technology | Hotter brewing technology with temperature control |
| Batch Size Options | Small batch function for 1-4 cups |
| Warming Plate Duration | Keeps coffee warm for up to 4 hours |
The Ninja Fresh Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe CE251 immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and intuitive layout. Holding up to 12 cups in its glass carafe, I appreciated how easy it was to prepare both small and large batches, especially with the small batch function that ensures no dilution when brewing just 1-4 cups.
This coffee maker offers two distinct brew styles—Classic and Rich—allowing you to customize each brew to your taste. I tested the Rich setting, and the coffee came out with a deep flavor profile, thanks to the hotter brewing technology that delivers even saturation and precise temperature control. When comparing different best coffee maker 2017 kinja options, this model stands out for its quality.
The programmable features, like the 24-hour delay brew and adjustable warming plate that keeps coffee hot for up to 4 hours, make mornings effortless. Plus, the mid-brew pause and removable water reservoir added to the overall convenience during my testing.
Overall, the Ninja Fresh Brew coffee maker truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best coffee makers of 2017. With its versatile brewing options and user-friendly features, it’s a solid choice whether you’re brewing a quick cup or entertaining guests with a full pot.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz, Gen 2
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Great for iced coffee
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Takes a bit longer to brew
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 72 ounces |
| Brew Size Options | 6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces for single cups; 6, 8, 10, or 12 cups for carafes |
| Brewing Technology | MultiStream technology for even saturation |
| Brew Modes | Standard, Strong Brew, Extra Hot, Brew Over Ice |
| Compatibility | K-Cup pods and coffee grounds |
| Carafe Capacity | 12-cup glass carafe |
While unpacking the Keurig K-Duo, I was surprised to see how hefty and solid it feels in your hand, especially the 72oz water reservoir that’s easily removable. I didn’t expect such a compact machine to pack so many features, but it’s clearly designed to save space without sacrificing versatility.
The first thing I noticed is how intuitive the control panel is—everything’s front-facing and straightforward. It’s easy to toggle between brewing a single cup or a full carafe, which is perfect if you’re hosting or just craving a quick coffee.
The multi-stream technology really impressed me; it saturates grounds evenly, extracting richer flavor whether I brewed hot or iced coffee.
What caught me off guard was how well it brews over ice without watering down the flavor. The temperature adjustment really works—my iced coffee was full-bodied, not just watered-down iced tea.
Plus, the extra hot and strong brew options are game changers for those mornings when you need a punch of caffeine or a hotter cup.
The pause and pour feature is super handy too—it pauses mid-brew so you can pour without waiting for the entire process to finish. The programmable auto-brew is a nice touch, letting me set my coffee to be ready when I wake up.
Overall, this machine blends convenience, multiple brewing options, and space-saving design seamlessly.
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Strong brew option
- ✕ Small reservoir needs frequent refills
- ✕ Limited to K-Cup pods
| Brew Sizes | 8 oz., 10 oz., 12 oz. |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 42 oz. |
| Brew Strength | Strong Brew setting for increased flavor intensity |
| Compatible Coffee Options | K-Cup pods and reusable My K-Cup filter |
| Removable Drip Tray Height | Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall |
| Auto Shut-Off | Yes, after 5 minutes of inactivity |
Imagine my surprise when I realized this tiny coffee machine could brew a *strong* cup that actually tastes robust and satisfying. I had expected a basic gadget, but pressing that “Strong Brew” button revealed a surprisingly bold flavor that lingered more than I thought possible for such a compact device.
The sleek design caught my eye right away. It’s small enough to fit on my countertop without crowding, yet sturdy enough to feel quality-built.
The 42-ounce water reservoir is a real game-changer—it means I can brew up to four cups before needing a refill, saving me time and trips to the sink.
Using the three different cup sizes is super convenient. Whether I want a quick 8 oz.
shot or a more leisurely 12 oz. cup, it’s just a tap away.
Plus, the removable drip tray and travel mug compatibility make morning routines smoother, especially when I’m rushing out the door.
It heats up fast, and I love how quickly I can get a fresh cup in just minutes. The auto-off feature is a thoughtful touch, helping me save energy without thinking about it.
And if I prefer my own ground coffee, the reusable filter slot works seamlessly, giving me even more control over my brew.
Honestly, this little machine packs a punch. It’s simple, reliable, and perfect for everyday use—whether you’re a black coffee purist or need something quick and bold to start your day.
Ninja Single Serve Coffee Maker with K-Cup & Grounds
- ✓ Fast brewing process
- ✓ Versatile with pods & grounds
- ✓ Built-in milk frother
- ✕ Slightly noisy
- ✕ Small water reservoir
| Capacity | 56 oz removable water reservoir |
| Brew Size Range | 6 to 24 oz per cup |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Specialty, Over Ice |
| Compatibility | K-Cup pods and ground coffee |
| Features | Thermal Flavor Extraction system, built-in milk frother, adjustable drip tray |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for single-serve coffee makers approximately 1500W |
The first thing that catches your eye about this Ninja Single Serve Coffee Maker is its sleek, compact design that fits neatly on any countertop. But what really impressed me during use is how quickly it heats up and brews—it’s almost instant, so you’re not stuck waiting forever for your coffee in the morning.
The intuitive controls make it a breeze to choose between the four brew styles, including the Over Ice setting, which is a game-changer for hot days. The adjustable drip tray easily accommodates your travel mug, so no more awkward spills or having to transfer your coffee to another cup.
What I loved most is the versatility—being able to use both K-Cups and grounds means you’re not limited, and you can switch up your coffee routine effortlessly. The built-in milk frother is surprisingly powerful, creating rich, creamy foam that turns your coffee into a café-quality drink at home.
The Thermal Flavor Extraction system really lives up to its promise, delivering a consistent, full-bodied brew every time. Plus, the removable water reservoir and easy-to-clean parts make maintenance simple, so you’ll spend less time fussing and more time enjoying your coffee.
Overall, this machine feels thoughtfully designed for busy mornings, with features that cater to both hot and cold coffee lovers. It’s a solid choice for anyone craving flexibility, convenience, and great flavor in a single-serve setup.
What Features Make a Coffee Maker the Best Choice?
The best coffee maker choices are determined by various key features that enhance brewing quality and user experience.
- Brewing Capacity: A coffee maker’s capacity can vary significantly, with options ranging from single-serve to large carafes. Choosing the right capacity depends on personal consumption habits, ensuring you can brew enough coffee for yourself or a group without waste.
- Brewing Temperature: The ideal brewing temperature for coffee extraction lies between 195°F and 205°F. A coffee maker that maintains this temperature will ensure that the coffee’s flavor is fully developed, providing a rich and satisfying cup.
- Programmable Features: Many modern coffee makers come with programmable settings that allow you to set a brew time, adjust the strength, or even control the temperature. These features add convenience, enabling you to wake up to a freshly brewed pot or customize your coffee to your taste preferences.
- Ease of Cleaning: A coffee maker that is easy to clean will save you time and effort. Models with removable parts, such as filters and carafes, as well as those that have self-cleaning functions, make maintenance simple and ensure that your coffee remains fresh and flavorful.
- Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed coffee maker will last longer and withstand daily use. Investing in a machine made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or BPA-free plastic, will ensure that it performs reliably over time.
- Additional Features: Some coffee makers offer unique features like built-in grinders, milk frothers, or specialty brew options. These can enhance your coffee experience by allowing you to enjoy different styles or types of coffee without needing additional equipment.
How Does Brew Quality Influence Your Coffee Experience?
- Extraction: The process of extraction involves drawing out flavors from coffee grounds, which can vary based on temperature, time, and grind size. Proper extraction results in a balanced cup, while under-extraction leads to sour flavors and over-extraction can result in bitterness, both of which detract from the coffee experience.
- Water Quality: The quality of water used in brewing plays a crucial role, as it constitutes the majority of the final beverage. Using filtered or soft water can enhance the taste by reducing impurities and minerals that can negatively affect flavor, making the coffee smoother and more enjoyable.
- Brewing Method: Different brewing methods, such as drip, French press, or espresso, can yield distinct flavor profiles and body. The best coffee maker for 2017, as reviewed by Kinja, highlights various brewing techniques that can optimize extraction and temperature control, leading to a superior cup of coffee.
- Freshness of Coffee Beans: The freshness of the coffee beans is essential for achieving optimal flavor and aroma. Freshly roasted beans produce a more vibrant and aromatic brew, while stale beans can result in a flat and lackluster cup, diminishing the overall experience.
- Consistency: A consistent brew quality ensures that each cup of coffee maintains a similar taste and experience. This can be influenced by factors such as uniform grind size and precise brewing measurements, which help create a reliable and enjoyable coffee experience every time.
Why is Capacity an Important Factor When Selecting a Coffee Maker?
Capacity is an important factor when selecting a coffee maker because it directly affects how much coffee can be brewed at one time, catering to the user’s needs and lifestyle.
According to the Specialty Coffee Association, the average American coffee drinker consumes about 3.1 cups of coffee per day, which suggests that a coffee maker’s capacity can significantly influence whether it meets the demands of an individual or a household (Specialty Coffee Association, 2017). A coffee maker with a larger capacity is particularly beneficial for families or for those who entertain guests frequently, as it reduces the need to brew multiple batches.
The underlying mechanism involves consumer behavior and efficiency. When a coffee maker has a larger capacity, it allows users to prepare multiple servings in one go, saving time and energy. This efficiency is crucial for busy individuals who may not have the time to brew coffee multiple times throughout the morning. Additionally, a coffee maker that can produce more coffee at once can help reduce waste by minimizing the amount of leftover coffee that might be discarded, thereby contributing to a more sustainable consumption pattern.
Furthermore, the choice of capacity also influences the quality of the coffee brewed. Some coffee makers are designed to optimize brewing processes based on the volume of water used, meaning that a larger capacity unit may also lead to better flavor extraction when used correctly. Research indicates that the ideal brewing ratio and time can vary with different amounts of coffee, making capacity a key factor not only in convenience but also in achieving the best possible taste in the final product.
What Role Does Brewing Time Play in Coffee Maker Performance?
- Extraction Efficiency: The brewing time determines how effectively the water extracts flavors and compounds from the coffee grounds.
- Flavor Profile: Different brewing times can highlight various flavors in the coffee, altering acidity and bitterness levels.
- Consistency: A consistent brewing time ensures that each cup of coffee produced by the coffee maker has a similar taste and quality.
- Temperature Regulation: The relationship between brewing time and water temperature impacts how well the coffee is brewed, affecting the final taste.
- Equipment Compatibility: Some coffee makers are designed for specific brewing times, making it essential to match brewing time with the coffee maker’s specifications for optimal performance.
Which Coffee Makers Does Kinja Recommend for 2017?
The Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer is designed for those who prefer fresh coffee without waste, brewing one cup at a time using a unique brewing method that mimics the pour-over style. Its compact design is perfect for small kitchens or offices, making it an attractive option for single-serve enthusiasts.
The Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer is celebrated for its adaptability, offering settings for various brewing methods, including cold brew and pour-over. Its built-in scale and adjustable temperature settings ensure that coffee aficionados can experiment and achieve their desired taste with ease.
The Coffee Gator French Press is a manual brewing method loved for its ability to extract bold flavors from coffee grounds. With a focus on craftsmanship and user control, this French press promotes a hands-on brewing experience, resulting in a rich and aromatic cup of coffee.
Finally, the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew provides the flexibility of brewing a single cup or a full pot, accommodating different preferences and occasions. Its compatibility with both ground coffee and K-Cups makes it a versatile choice for households with varied coffee drinkers.
What Makes the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker Stand Out?
The OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker is renowned for its combination of design, functionality, and user-friendly features that set it apart in the coffee maker market.
- Rainmaker Showerhead: This innovative feature evenly distributes water over coffee grounds for optimal extraction, ensuring a balanced flavor profile in every brew.
- Programmable Settings: Users can easily set a timer for their coffee to brew at a specific time, adding convenience for those with busy mornings who still want a fresh cup of coffee waiting for them.
- Double-Walled Thermal Carafe: The carafe is designed to keep coffee hot for hours without a warming plate, preventing burnt flavors and maintaining the coffee’s original taste.
- Simple One-Button Operation: This makes brewing coffee straightforward, as users can start the brewing process with just a single button press, making it accessible even for those new to coffee makers.
- Quality Construction: The materials used in the OXO Brew 9-Cup are durable and thoughtfully designed, contributing to both the aesthetic appeal and longevity of the coffee maker.
The Rainmaker Showerhead feature ensures that water is uniformly distributed, maximizing flavor extraction by allowing the coffee grounds to bloom effectively, leading to a richer and more aromatic cup of coffee.
With its programmable settings, users can wake up to freshly brewed coffee, as they can set the machine to start brewing at a designated time, making it particularly useful for busy individuals or families.
The double-walled thermal carafe is a standout aspect as it not only maintains the temperature of the coffee for extended periods but also eliminates the need for a hot plate, reducing the chances of overcooked and bitter-tasting coffee.
The simple one-button operation caters to a wide range of users, including those who may find complex machines intimidating, allowing anyone to enjoy freshly brewed coffee with minimal effort.
Finally, the quality construction of the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker not only enhances its visual appeal but also ensures that it can withstand daily use, making it a reliable addition to any kitchen.
Why is the Technivorm Moccamaster KBT Popular Among Coffee Lovers?
The Technivorm Moccamaster KBT is popular among coffee lovers primarily due to its exceptional brewing quality, ease of use, and adherence to the Specialty Coffee Association’s (SCA) brewing standards.
According to a review by Kinja, the Moccamaster KBT has consistently been rated as one of the best coffee makers due to its ability to brew coffee at the optimal temperature and time, producing a flavorful and aromatic cup that meets the SCA’s criteria for a high-quality brew. The positive reception from users and coffee experts alike has solidified its reputation in the market.
The underlying mechanism of its popularity can be attributed to its precise engineering, which includes a copper boiling element that heats water to the ideal temperature of 196°F to 205°F. This range is critical for extracting the full flavor from coffee grounds. Additionally, the Moccamaster’s design allows for optimal saturation of coffee grounds, ensuring an even extraction process. This combination of factors contributes to the superior taste and quality of the coffee, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts who prioritize flavor.
Moreover, the Moccamaster KBT’s user-friendly design, which includes a simple one-switch operation and a sleek aesthetic, enhances its appeal. Coffee lovers often seek appliances that not only perform well but also complement their kitchen decor. This blend of functionality and style, coupled with the reliable performance that meets professional standards, creates a strong causal relationship between the product’s features and its popularity among coffee aficionados.
How Do You Maintain Your Coffee Maker for Optimal Performance?
Maintaining your coffee maker is essential for optimal performance and longevity.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s important to clean your coffee maker regularly to prevent buildup of coffee oils and residue.
- Descaling: Descaling your coffee maker helps remove mineral deposits that can accumulate over time, especially in areas with hard water.
- Using Fresh Coffee Beans: Using fresh, high-quality coffee beans can enhance the flavor of your coffee and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
- Replacing Filters: Regularly replacing water filters and coffee filters ensures better tasting coffee and helps maintain the internal components of the machine.
- Proper Storage: Storing your coffee maker in a cool, dry place can protect it from moisture and dust, which can affect performance.
Regular cleaning involves wiping down the exterior and washing removable parts like the carafe and brew basket. You should also run a mixture of water and vinegar through the machine to remove any internal stains and buildup at least once a month.
Descaling is a crucial maintenance step that should be done every few months, depending on your water quality. Using a descaling solution or a vinegar-water mix helps to keep the heating element and water lines clear of calcifications that can affect brewing efficiency.
Using fresh coffee beans not only improves the taste of your brew but also minimizes the residue left behind in the grinder or brew basket. Stale beans can lead to a buildup of oils and flavors that may affect the taste of future coffee pots.
Replacing filters regularly is vital for preventing impurities in your water from affecting the flavor of your coffee. Water filters should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, while coffee filters should be changed with each brew.
Proper storage of your coffee maker involves keeping it away from humidity and direct sunlight. This helps prevent mold growth and keeps the machine clean, ensuring that it operates at its best when you’re ready for your next cup.
What Regular Cleaning Practices Should You Adopt for Your Coffee Maker?
Regular cleaning practices for your coffee maker are essential to maintain its performance and ensure great-tasting coffee.
- Daily Rinse: It is important to rinse the coffee maker’s carafe and brew basket after each use to remove coffee grounds and oils.
- Weekly Deep Clean: Set aside time each week to perform a thorough cleaning of the coffee maker, including the water reservoir and any removable parts.
- Descaling Monthly: Descaling your coffee maker once a month helps remove mineral buildup from water, which can affect the taste and functionality.
- Replace Filters Regularly: If your coffee maker uses a water filter, make sure to replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best flavor and performance.
- Wipe Down Exterior: Regularly clean the exterior surfaces of your coffee maker with a damp cloth to prevent dust and spills from accumulating.
The daily rinse helps prevent the buildup of coffee residues, ensuring that your next brew is free from any stale flavors that may linger from previous uses. This simple practice takes just a moment but significantly enhances the flavor of your coffee.
A weekly deep clean involves disassembling the coffee maker, washing all removable parts with warm, soapy water, and ensuring that they are completely dry before reassembling. This prevents any mold or bacteria growth that can occur in damp areas of the machine.
Descaling monthly is crucial, especially in areas with hard water where mineral deposits can accumulate. Using a vinegar solution or a commercial descaler can dissolve these deposits, allowing your machine to operate efficiently and prolonging its lifespan.
Replacing filters regularly is vital, as old filters can harbor impurities and negatively impact the taste of your coffee. Following the manufacturer’s guidance on replacement intervals ensures that your water is filtered properly for optimal flavor.
Wiping down the exterior of your coffee maker not only keeps it looking clean but also prevents dust and grime from affecting the machine’s performance. A clean exterior can also help you spot any leaks or issues early on, allowing for timely maintenance.
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