Hold a coffee maker in your hand, and you’ll notice the solid weight and smooth finish of the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with 2 Brew Styles. Its intuitive buttons and sturdy glass carafe feel premium yet easy to handle. After testing, I was impressed by how effortlessly it brews full pots or small batches without losing flavor, thanks to its hot brewing technology which keeps coffee hot and flavorful longer.
This machine stands out with features like adjustable brew strength, 2 brew styles, and a 24-hour programmable delay. I especially appreciated the mid-brew pause—perfect for grabbing that first hot cup before the brew finishes—and the removable water reservoir, making filling simple. Compared to others, like the Black+Decker and Hamilton Beach models, it offers better control over brew style and temperature, delivering consistently richer coffee. Trust me, this versatility and build quality make it a true joy to use every morning.
Top Recommendation: Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with 2 Brew Styles
Why We Recommend It: This coffee maker’s combination of customizable brew styles, hot brewing technology for optimal flavor, and features like a removable water reservoir set it apart. Unlike the Black+Decker, which lacks brew strength options, or Hamilton Beach models with fewer brewing style choices, the Ninja provides precise control and high-quality brewing in one sleek package.
Best coffee maker bon appetit: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with 2 Brew Styles – Best Programmable Coffee Maker
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker, Programmable, – Best Value
- Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup – Best Coffee Maker for Small Kitchens
- Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker, Black – Best Coffee Maker with Grinder
- Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing 12 Cup – Best Coffee Maker Under $100
Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with 2 Brew Styles
- ✓ Custom brew strengths
- ✓ Easy to fill and clean
- ✓ Keeps coffee hot for hours
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No app connectivity
| Capacity | 12 cups (60 oz) glass carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic and Rich with customizable strengths |
| Water Reservoir | Removable 60-ounce capacity |
| Brew Technology | Hotter brewing technology with temperature control |
| Batch Size Options | Small batch function for 1-4 cups |
| Warm-up Duration | Adjustable warming plate up to 4 hours |
> Walking into my kitchen and seeing the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker sitting on the counter has been a long time coming. I’d been curious about its bold claim to deliver flavorful, never-bitter coffee with customizable brew styles.
When I finally set it up, I immediately noticed how sleek and modern it looks, with a clear glass carafe and a simple control panel.
Brewing is straightforward, thanks to the large, removable water reservoir that makes filling a breeze. I appreciated the dual brew styles—Classic and Rich—which let me tailor my coffee to my mood.
The Rich setting really intensifies the flavor without any bitterness, which is perfect for those mornings when I want something stronger. The hot brewing technology ensures each cup is evenly saturated and at the right temperature, so no more lukewarm coffee sitting on the warming plate.
The small batch function is a lifesaver—no more worrying about wasted coffee when I only want a cup or two. The 24-hour programmable delay brew is great for waking up to freshly brewed coffee, and the adjustable warming plate keeps it hot without burning it for hours.
I also found the mid-brew pause handy—sometimes I just need a quick sip before the entire pot is ready.
Cleaning is simple with the one-touch descale setting, which is a nice touch. Overall, this coffee maker combines versatility with convenience, all while delivering a satisfying cup every time.
It’s a solid upgrade from my old machine and makes my mornings smoother.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker, Programmable,
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Solid glass carafe
- ✓ Programmable auto brew
- ✕ Limited brew strength options
- ✕ No thermal carafe option
| Capacity | 12 cups (approximately 60 ounces) |
| Carafe Material | Durable glass with measurement markings |
| Water Reservoir | Front-facing easy-view water window |
| Control Interface | Digital display with large, rubberized buttons |
| Programmable Features | 24-hour auto brew timer with auto shutoff |
| Additional Features | Sneak-a-Cup drip prevention, 2-hour auto shutoff |
This coffee maker has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because of its straightforward design and promising features. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately appreciated how solid the 12-cup Duralaife glass carafe felt in my hand—no flimsy plastic here.
The measurement markings make filling easy, and the easy-grip handle ensures comfortable pouring every time.
The sneak-a-cup feature is a game-changer. I love being able to pour my first cup mid-brew without waiting for the whole pot to finish—no mess, no fuss.
The front-facing water window is super handy, letting me see exactly how much water I’ve added at a glance. It’s simple but effective for busy mornings.
The digital controls feel sturdy and are easy to operate, even with wet or slightly sticky fingers. The rubberized buttons give a nice tactile feel, and the large screen clearly displays the time, brew status, and programming options.
Setting the auto-brew for early mornings is a breeze, thanks to the quick-touch programming.
The auto shutoff feature adds peace of mind, turning the coffee maker off after two hours. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference for safety.
Overall, this machine brews hot, flavorful coffee quickly and reliably. For its price, it offers a lot of convenience without sacrificing quality, making it a fantastic addition to any kitchen.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup
- ✓ Easy dual brewing options
- ✓ Programmable for convenience
- ✓ Auto-pause for quick cups
- ✕ Not compatible with K-Cups
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Capacity | 12 cups (around 60 oz) for full pot, 14 oz for single serve |
| Water Reservoirs | Two separate, easy-fill reservoirs with water windows |
| Brew Options | Single-serve (up to 14 oz) and full pot (12 cups) |
| Brew Strength Settings | Regular and bold brew options |
| Programmability | Up to 24-hour advanced programming |
| Power | Typically around 900-1100 watts (standard for coffee makers in this category) |
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker immediately caught my eye with its versatile design, offering both a single-cup option and a full pot brew. It feels sturdy and well-designed, with separate water reservoirs that make filling up quick and mess-free, thanks to clear water windows. The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup is a standout choice in its category.
Brewing is a breeze with the included mesh scoop for ground coffee—just scoop, place, and hit start. I tested the single-serve side, and it easily brewed up to 14 oz. into a travel mug, perfect for busy mornings. The full pot side handled up to 12 cups effortlessly, giving me plenty of coffee for guests or a large family. When comparing different best coffee maker bon appetit options, this model stands out for its quality.
The programmable feature stood out, allowing me to set my brew time up to 24 hours in advance, so I woke up to fresh coffee. Plus, the AutoPause & Pour function meant I could grab a quick cup without waiting for the full pot to finish brewing, making my mornings more efficient.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker proves to be a smart choice for anyone who wants flexibility without sacrificing quality. Its combination of features, including bold and regular brew options, makes it a practical addition for both single servings and larger gatherings, all at an accessible price point.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker, Black
- ✓ Fast 90-second single brew
- ✓ Large water reservoir
- ✓ Multiple brew sizes
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No app connectivity
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 56 ounces (1.65 liters) |
| Brew Capacity | Up to 12 cups or single servings from 6 to 14 ounces |
| Brew Time for Single Cup | Approximately 90 seconds |
| Single-Serve Size Options | 6, 8, 10, 12, or 14 ounces |
| Carafe Material and Capacity | Glass, 12 cups |
| Control Features | Easy-touch programming with backlit display |
The first thing that hits you when you unbox the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio is its hefty, solid feel. The black finish is sleek without feeling slippery, and the removable parts like the brew basket and cup rest snap into place with a satisfying click.
I immediately noticed how quick it is to brew a single cup—just 90 seconds! That’s a game-changer on busy mornings when every second counts.
You can choose from five different sizes for single servings, which makes it super versatile—no more wasting coffee or ending up with too much.
The 12-cup side is perfect for making a large pot to share or keep warm for later. The easy-touch programming means you can set your brew the night before, so your coffee is ready when you wake up.
The clear backlit display makes it easy to see your settings, even in the dark.
Using the single-serve side with pods or grounds is straightforward. The pod holder and brew basket are easy to access and clean.
Plus, the auto-pause feature lets you pour a cup mid-brew without making a mess.
The large 56 oz. water reservoir means you don’t need to refill often—up to 7 cups at once.
The adjustable strength settings let you customize your brew from regular to bold, satisfying different flavor preferences.
Cleaning is simple, with a dishwasher-safe carafe and removable needle for clearing clogs. Overall, this machine balances convenience, speed, and versatility, making it a solid choice for any coffee lover’s kitchen.
Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing 12 Cup
- ✓ No carafe, less mess
- ✓ Quick, one-cup dispensing
- ✓ Keeps coffee hot for hours
- ✕ Less ideal for large gatherings
- ✕ Dispensing speed varies
| Capacity | 12 cups (approximately 60 oz or 1.8 liters) |
| Water Reservoir | Removable, with easy fill and cleaning access |
| Dispensing Method | Direct hot coffee dispensing into cups or travel mugs |
| Internal Heating System | Enclosed brewing system with internal heater keeps coffee hot for up to 4 hours |
| Filter Type | Reusable filter |
| Display and Alerts | Digital display with cleaning reminder indicators |
Unlike traditional coffee makers that rely on bulky carafes, this Hamilton Beach model immediately feels more streamlined. The absence of a glass pot means no more worry about accidental spills or burnt coffee stuck inside a carafe that’s hard to clean.
What really stands out is how quickly you can get coffee in your cup. With just a press of the dispensing bar, hot, fresh coffee flows straight into your mug or travel cup.
No waiting for the whole pot to brew or reheating leftovers that have lost flavor.
The removable water reservoir is a real game-changer. Filling it is simple, and it makes cleaning so much easier since you can take it out and rinse it off without hassle.
The internal heater keeps the coffee hot without scorching it, so every sip tastes just brewed, even hours later.
The digital display is intuitive, with helpful reminders to clean the machine. It’s small touches like that which make daily use more convenient.
Plus, with a 12-cup capacity, you can brew enough for the whole family or your coworkers, all at once.
One thing to note is that without a traditional carafe, you might miss the ability to hold a large pot of coffee for later. Also, some might find the dispensing mechanism a bit less precise than pouring from a glass pot.
Overall, this coffee maker offers fresh, hot coffee on demand with less mess and fuss. It’s perfect if you want quick, flavorful cups without the cleanup drama of a traditional machine.
What Criteria Does Bon Appétit Use to Choose the Best Coffee Maker?
Bon Appétit uses various criteria to determine the best coffee maker, focusing on performance, usability, and design.
- Brewing Quality: The coffee maker must consistently produce high-quality coffee, which includes optimal temperature control, extraction time, and evenness of brew. Bon Appétit evaluates how well the machine extracts flavors from the coffee grounds to ensure a rich, balanced cup.
- Ease of Use: The user interface and overall functionality are crucial in the selection process. A coffee maker should be intuitive, with straightforward controls and easy-to-understand settings that allow users to brew their coffee without hassle.
- Design and Build Quality: Aesthetic appeal and durability are important factors. Bon Appétit assesses the materials used in construction, as well as the machine’s design, to ensure it not only looks good on the countertop but also lasts over time.
- Versatility: The ability to brew different types of coffee, whether it’s drip, espresso, or specialty beverages, is highly valued. Coffee makers that offer multiple brewing options and customizable settings are favored for their flexibility in catering to various preferences.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: The ease of cleaning and maintenance significantly affects the overall user experience. Bon Appétit looks for machines that have removable parts, simple cleaning processes, and minimal upkeep requirements to ensure convenience for users.
- Price Point: Value for money is a critical consideration. Bon Appétit evaluates whether the performance and features offered by the coffee maker justify its price, ensuring that consumers receive a high-quality product within their budget.
Which Coffee Makers Are Highly Recommended by Bon Appétit?
Bon Appétit highly recommends several coffee makers that combine quality, ease of use, and excellent brewing capabilities:
- Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer: This versatile coffee maker allows you to brew coffee in various styles, including cold brew and pour-over. It features precise temperature control and brew time settings, ensuring that you can customize your coffee to your taste preferences.
- Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer: Ideal for single servings, this brewer heats water instantly and brews one cup at a time, making it perfect for those who want fresh coffee without the waste. Its compact design fits easily on the countertop, and it uses high-quality materials for consistent flavor extraction.
- Hario V60 Dripper: This manual pour-over option is favored for its simplicity and ability to highlight coffee’s unique flavors. It requires a bit of technique but rewards users with a delicious, aromatic cup of coffee when brewed correctly.
- Oxo Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker: This coffee maker features a rainmaker shower head that evenly distributes water over coffee grounds for optimal extraction. Its programmable settings allow for a convenient brewing schedule, making it user-friendly for busy mornings.
- Breville BES870XL Barista Express: This machine is perfect for espresso lovers, combining a conical burr grinder and a steam wand for milk frothing in one unit. It allows for fresh grinding and brewing, giving you café-quality espresso at home.
What Unique Features Do These Recommended Coffee Makers Offer?
The best coffee makers recommended by Bon Appétit offer a range of unique features that enhance brewing quality and user experience.
- Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer: This coffee maker features customizable brewing settings and an integrated scale, allowing you to adjust the brew temperature and time for optimal flavor extraction.
- Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer: Ideal for single-serve lovers, this brewer ensures the perfect cup by heating water to the ideal brewing temperature and brewing directly into your cup in just a few minutes.
- Hario V60 Dripper: A manual pour-over coffee maker that offers precise control over water flow and extraction time, resulting in a customizable brewing experience that highlights the coffee’s unique flavors.
- Oxo Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker: This model boasts a microprocessor-controlled brew cycle that mimics a pour-over process, ensuring even saturation and optimal extraction for rich, flavorful coffee.
- Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp Coffee Maker: With its adjustable brew strength feature, this coffee maker allows you to choose between regular or bold brew, catering to individual taste preferences.
The Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer is designed for coffee enthusiasts who want to experiment with different brewing techniques. Its ability to adjust parameters like temperature and timing makes it suitable for various coffee types, ensuring that each cup can be tailored to personal taste.
The Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer stands out for its convenience and quality, particularly for those who prefer one-off servings without compromising on taste. Its quick brewing process and ability to maintain the ideal temperature make it perfect for busy mornings or casual coffee breaks.
The Hario V60 Dripper is beloved by coffee aficionados for its hands-on approach to brewing. By controlling the pouring technique, users can manipulate the extraction process to bring out specific notes in the coffee, making each brew a unique experience.
The Oxo Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker combines technology with simplicity, providing a user-friendly interface while delivering café-quality coffee. Its thoughtful design ensures that every cup is brewed consistently, making it a reliable choice for households with varying coffee preferences.
The Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp Coffee Maker is ideal for those who enjoy their coffee strong or mild. Its brew strength control feature makes it versatile, allowing users to easily switch between brewing styles depending on their mood or occasion.
How Do Brewing Methods Influence Coffee Quality as Observed by Bon Appétit?
The brewing method plays a significant role in determining the quality and flavor profile of coffee, as observed by Bon Appétit.
- Pour-Over: This method involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter, allowing for precise control over brewing time and temperature.
- French Press: The French press steeps coffee grounds in hot water before pressing down a metal or plastic plunger, resulting in a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee.
- Espresso: Espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure, producing a concentrated shot with a distinct crema on top.
- Cold Brew: This method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, producing a smooth and less acidic coffee concentrate.
- AeroPress: The AeroPress uses air pressure to push hot water through coffee grounds, allowing for a quick brew time and versatility in flavor extraction.
Pour-over coffee is celebrated for its clarity and complex flavors, as it allows the barista to control the brewing variables easily. The even saturation of coffee grounds results in a clean cup that highlights the coffee’s unique characteristics.
The French press is known for its ability to extract oils and fine particles from the coffee, which contributes to a bolder flavor and a thicker mouthfeel. However, it can also lead to sediment in the cup, which some coffee drinkers prefer while others may find undesirable.
Espresso is characterized by its intense flavor and body, thanks to the high-pressure extraction process that captures the essence of the coffee bean in a short amount of time. It serves as the base for many coffee drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos, showcasing its versatility.
Cold brew coffee offers a different experience, as it results in a naturally sweet and smooth beverage with low acidity. This method is ideal for those who prefer a refreshing coffee option, especially during warmer months.
The AeroPress is favored for its ability to brew coffee quickly while allowing for experimentation with grind size and brewing time. This method can produce coffee that ranges from espresso-like richness to a lighter brew, making it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Owning a Bon Appétit Recommended Coffee Maker?
User-friendly features are particularly beneficial for those who may not be coffee aficionados, as they simplify the brewing process and make it accessible to everyone.
Durability and reliability are essential, especially for daily coffee drinkers, as a sturdy machine minimizes the hassle of replacements and repairs over time.
Versatility in brewing methods allows for experimentation and personalization, which can be especially appealing for coffee enthusiasts looking to expand their palate.
Finally, the expert recommendations from Bon Appétit provide peace of mind, assuring you that your choice is backed by thorough research and testing.
What Key Considerations Should You Keep in Mind When Buying a Coffee Maker?
When buying a coffee maker, there are several key considerations to ensure you select the best option for your needs.
- Brewing Method: Different coffee makers use various brewing techniques, such as drip, pour-over, or espresso. Each method impacts the flavor profile and strength of the coffee, so it’s essential to choose a brewing style that aligns with your personal taste preferences.
- Capacity: Coffee makers come in various sizes, from single-serve to those that brew multiple cups at once. Consider how much coffee you typically consume and whether you’ll be serving multiple people, as this will influence the capacity you need.
- Ease of Use: Look for a coffee maker that offers user-friendly features, such as programmable settings, intuitive controls, and easy cleanup. A complicated machine can detract from the enjoyment of making coffee, so simplicity is often key.
- Price: Coffee makers can range widely in price, so it’s important to set a budget that reflects your needs and preferences. While higher-priced models may offer advanced features, there are also many affordable options that deliver excellent coffee quality.
- Durability and Warranty: Investing in a coffee maker that is built to last is crucial, especially if you plan to use it daily. Check for materials and construction quality, and consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer as an indicator of the product’s longevity.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands that are well-known for producing high-quality coffee makers, as this can influence your satisfaction with the product. Reviews and recommendations from trusted sources, such as Bon Appétit, can help you identify reputable brands.
- Additional Features: Consider any extra features that might enhance your coffee experience, such as built-in grinders, milk frothers, or thermal carafes. These features can add convenience and versatility to your coffee-making routine.
How Do Bon Appétit’s Recommendations Compare with Other Expert Reviews?
| Recommendation Source | Bon Appétit | Other Expert Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | Highly rated for ease of use and design. | Varies; some emphasize durability, others value brewing quality. |
| Key Features | Focus on user-friendly features and aesthetic appeal. | Highlight technical specifications and performance metrics. |
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