The main advantages of drip coffee makers are their low cost and ease of use. They make classic Americano. Espresso lovers should immediately switch to geyser coffee makers or capsule coffee machines. But if you like coffee that is not too strong and that there is more of it, then feel free to choose the drip type of coffee maker. And now we’ll tell you how to choose them, and which 8 drip coffee makers are worthy of the title of the best.
- How does a drip coffee maker work?
- How to choose a drip coffee maker?
- Top 8 drip coffee makers
- Answers to popular questions
How does a drip coffee maker work?
The mechanism is very simple. There is a reservoir with water, there is a container with coffee (aka a filter). The water is heated, rises through the tube into a container with coffee, passes through it and flows through a filter into a glass teapot (sometimes into a mug if the coffee maker is very small). After this, you can actually drink coffee.
It is also important to note that when the water rises to the filter with coffee, it is not 100% steam, it is a mixture of steam and water. Because the steam used to prepare this drink is too hot.
What types of drip coffee makers are there?
Drip coffee makers differ mainly in the volume of coffee prepared and the presence of some additional functions. For example, there are coffee makers with timers and delayed start, so that in the evening you can add coffee, pour water, and in the morning the device will start cooking on its own. There is a function for heating already prepared coffee. In the premium segment, there are coffee makers that can grind beans themselves and can be launched via an application on a mobile phone.
There is also power, which affects the speed of coffee preparation, but it usually correlates with volume. That is, the greater the maximum volume of coffee that the device can make at a time, the greater the power.
It cannot be said that all of the listed parameters make the coffee maker better or worse; everything depends more on the specific needs of the consumer.
Special functions of the devices
Modern devices, in addition to the main options, are often equipped with additional and useful functions. Often their presence becomes decisive when choosing a particular model.
Most popular options:
- Protection against possible overflow. An automatic stop is triggered when the flask is filled to the maximum level.
- Movable filter basket. The design significantly simplifies pouring ground coffee due to convenient access to the filter. The basket is simply moved to the side.
- Automatic dosing. The function allows you to select the optimal ratio of coffee and water.
- Conformity scale. With this you can't go wrong with the amount of ground coffee.
- Selecting the desired strength. You select the desired strength level, and the machine cooks according to the specified setting. Often these coffee makers support two cooking modes: strong and mild taste.
- Programmable on timer. The coffee starts brewing at the set time. In the evening, fill the coffee maker with all the ingredients and set the timer, and in the morning you will receive a flavorful drink.
- Selecting the required number of cups of coffee based on the number of people willing. At the same time, the degree of strength will be maintained. Depending on the selected position, the switch adjusts the speed of water passing through the filter and thereby maintains the degree of its saturation from ground coffee.
- Beverage temperature display. This way you will always know what temperature the coffee is in the flask. If the indicator is red, the temperature is above 65 °C. Black color indicates a temperature below 65 °C and is considered too cold.
How to choose a drip coffee maker?
Volume and power
Let's start with the most obvious - the capacity of the jug. It depends on how much coffee you can make at a time. Everything is obvious here, look at your appetites and the number of people for whom the coffee will be prepared.
Don't forget to look at the power, because if the jug is large (say 1.5 liters) and the power is less than one kilowatt, then the coffee will take a very long time to prepare.
Filter
There are two types of filters for such coffee makers: paper and nylon. Most often you can use both if you choose, but there are exceptions. And this is also worth paying attention to.
In terms of economy, nylon filters are better because they are reusable and usually come already included. But they are less hygienic. Old coffee from previous brews may remain on them, and hence bacteria, and sometimes even mold, if the filter is not washed and the coffee maker is not used too often. Hence the need arises to wash such filters thoroughly, and to do this quite carefully, because they also tear quite easily.
More expensive models often have expensive filters, which actually consist of the same nylon, only additionally coated with titanium nitride. Such filters will be more reliable and durable.
But it is best to use disposable paper filters. It's more hygienic, and there won't be any extra contaminants in your coffee, like soap or dish soap, that sometimes linger on nylon filters after you wash them. Their supply, of course, must be constantly replenished, which is inconvenient, but paper filters are inexpensive and will not put a dent in the family wallet.
Additional options
Additional amenities that you should pay attention to include heating and auto shut-off.
With automatic shut-off, there is no need to wait for the moment when the coffee is ready and the coffee maker stops heating the water tank. The device will simply turn itself off when the tank is empty. This saves energy and allows you not to worry about the coffee maker overheating and burning out.
The heating function is activated after the coffee has been prepared. A jug with a drink is warming up.
If we go into a slightly more premium segment, then some drip coffee makers have a decalcification function, that is, descaling. A special detergent is poured (or poured) into the device, the cleaning process starts, and after 25-30 minutes the coffee maker is ready for use.
In addition, such devices have a reminder function about the need for decalcification, which turns on regularly after a certain number of prepared servings of the drink.
What kind of coffee should I use?
There are models with built-in coffee grinders where you can simply add beans. Then look only at the roasting date; the fresher the coffee, the tastier it will be. Over time, the grains simply lose their aroma, and the drink loses all its charm. This is a universal rule for all methods of making coffee: even for a drip coffee maker, even for a geyser, even for a Turk or a coffee machine.
Another universal rule: the finer the grind, the stronger the coffee. Here it is impossible to say what is better and what is worse, choose according to your taste. But, most importantly, if the coffee maker has a built-in coffee grinder with grinding adjustment, then you can adjust the strength of the drink.
It is for drip coffee makers that stores sell special ground coffee, which is marked on the packaging: “for drip coffee machines” or “for filter coffee.” True, these notes on packages are not always translated into Russian, so be careful.
Nuances when choosing
Drip coffee makers are manufactured by manufacturers in a wide range , with a variety of designs and numerous functions. This device will help you quickly and easily prepare wonderful coffee so that you can start the day with a cup of invigorating drink that will charge you for the whole working day.
When choosing a drip coffee maker with the ability to control strength, you should pay attention to the following features:
- the more powerful the coffee maker, the faster the water will heat up to the desired temperature, and the user will receive the desired coffee: the power of modern models is usually from 700 to 2,000 W;
- the ideal water temperature for espresso is 92–95°C, some models have temperature settings available, but their price is slightly higher;
- container capacity for clean water - the larger it is, the more coffee can be prepared from one refill;
- modern cups for ready-made coffee can be placed in the microwave;
- It is more convenient to use a filter holder that slides to the side rather than a removable one;
- It’s good if the coffee maker you choose has a special compartment where you should put the cord away after use;
- the ability to connect to a water supply makes the model much more convenient to use, but significantly increases the cost;
- the case can be made of either plastic or metal (metal ones are much stronger and more durable, but have more weight and price).
Top 8 drip coffee makers
Best Budget Drip Coffee Makers
Maxwell MW-1650 BK
A small, economical coffee maker with a flask heating function. One serving is enough for approximately 4-6 mugs. The issue price is around 1400 rubles.
Price: ₽ 1,390
Redmond RCM-M1507
Another budget, but at the same time reliable solution for about 1800 rubles. Compactness (4-6 mugs per serving) and cost-effectiveness are present. There are also two additional useful things - a measuring spoon and a set of paper filters included. And as we wrote, paper filters are better.
Price: ₽ 1,790
The best coffee makers for home
Moulinex Subito FG360830
A larger coffee maker, 1.25 liters or 7-10 mugs, the power is correspondingly also higher than that of budget models. So the speed of making coffee does not suffer. There is a function for heating the flask, so the coffee will be hot for a long time. Both paper and nylon filters are available. The cost is about 2700 rubles.
Price: ₽ 2,690
Kitfort KT-704-1
This model, compared to the previous one, costs a little more - about 2,700 rubles - and prepares a little more coffee - 1.5 liters or 12 mugs. At the same time, the power of the coffee maker is the same, so the drink will take a little longer to prepare. But there is a delayed start function, so that, for example, you can set the coffee maker in the evening so that it will prepare coffee for you automatically in the morning. You just need to add coffee, pour water and set a timer. There is also a heated flask and auto shut-off after 45 minutes.
Price: ₽ 2,690
The best drip coffee makers with display
Gemlux GL-CM-77
The volume of the flask of this coffee maker, which costs about 7,000 rubles, is 1.2 liters, but the power is 1050 W, so the drink will be prepared in it faster. But the speed of cooking is far from the main thing here. There is a built-in coffee grinder with adjustable grinding degree and amount of water used, which will allow you to regulate the strength and quantity of the drink. There is a readiness indicator light and a sound signal.
Price: RUB 7,360
KitchenAid 5KCM0802EER
A coffee maker for 21,500 rubles with a built-in coffee grinder and a function for adjusting the strength of the drink (the level and amount of water can be adjusted). It differs from the previous model with more power - 1200 W. With the same volume of water tank, this gives a faster coffee preparation speed. There is a delayed start, heating of the flask and a signal that the coffee is ready. And also an indicator indicating that a decalcification procedure needs to be performed.
Price: RUB 21,490
The best drip coffee makers with adjustable coffee strength
Princess 249402
The coffee maker is less powerful than previous models, only 1000 W, with the same flask sizes and a price of about 11,000 rubles. There is a readiness indicator, strength adjustment, coffee grinder and delayed start. In general, everything you need for a premium-level coffee maker, only the power is low. But such a disadvantage is compensated by its versatility.
Price: ₽ 10,490
Bosch ComfortLine TKA6A683
At a price of about 8,000 rubles, such a coffee maker can be called budget among premium ones. It may have a little less useful options than the previous ones, but it is more powerful. 1200 W of power with a maximum volume of prepared coffee of only 1 liter gives a high speed of preparing the drink. This coffee maker also has adjustable drink strength, heated flask and auto shut off. And do not forget about the important, and characteristic only of premium models, decalcification function, which allows the device to last longer.
Price: RUB 7,990
Philips HD 7761
The top model of the Philips brand compares favorably with its analogues. The product is made in a laconic design and has a streamlined shape. The combination of gray metal and black plastic makes it unpretentious when introduced into the interior. At the top there is a container for coffee beans and a built-in coffee grinder with a grinding degree regulator.
Functions
- Grinding coffee beans;
- Making Americano coffee, espresso;
- Adjustable automatic shutdown;
- Anti-drip system;
- Choice of drink strength – soft, medium, strong.
Peculiarities
- The non-removable water container is equipped with a liquid volume indicator. The number of divisions corresponds to the number of servings to be prepared, which is convenient to use;
- Automatic shut-off eliminates the need to monitor coffee preparation.
Additional important features:
- The presence of a coffee grinder with a grinding degree regulator: fine - helps to prepare a strong, most invigorating drink, coarse - less rich, which can be drunk during the day;
- The manufacturer recommends using lightly roasted beans . Caramelized or unroasted varieties are prohibited.
Advantages
- The glass jug is placed on a heated base, the drink will remain warm for half an hour;
- Ease of operation: the user needs to fill in a given volume of water, add grains or ground coffee, select the number of cups and strength using the regulator;
- Clear interface;
- All components are easily dismantled and can be cleaned;
- In one cycle you can prepare a portion of the drink for 5-6 people;
- Ergonomic design;
Flaws
- The drink has a taste specific to all drip coffee makers;
- It is impossible to achieve the presence of foam;
- If you use ground coffee, you will need to purchase removable paper filters, which are not included. The coffee maker filter allows some of the grounds to pass into the flask;
- In a small kitchen, installation problems may arise.
Video review
Video review of the coffee maker from the user:
Video presentation of the coffee maker and its main capabilities in the video:
Presentation of the coffee maker from the manufacturer in the video below:
Results
The Philips HD7761 Grind & Brew drip coffee maker is actually a real coffee machine. Because it requires minimal participation from you in preparing the drink, and it is prepared from coffee beans.
The Philips Grind & Brew HD7761/00 coffee maker can work with ground coffee, but its element is grain!
You pour it into the top hopper just like on a “big” espresso coffee machine. From there it goes to a burr coffee grinder, which is made of ceramic - this guarantees proper grinding and no signs of bitterness, it will not overheat the grain, even if you set the preparation to 10 cups (a full jug) at maximum strength and minimum grinding degree.
Comparison table of the best drip coffee makers
| Name | Main characteristics | Price |
| Maxwell MW-1650 BK | A small, economical coffee maker with a flask heating function. | ₽ 1 390 |
| Redmond RCM-M1507 | Compact (4-6 mugs per serving), economical, there are two additional useful things - a measuring spoon and a set of paper filters included. | ₽ 1 790 |
| Moulinex Subito FG360830 | For 1.25 liters or 7-10 mugs, there is a flask heating function, so the coffee will be hot for a long time. | ₽ 2 690 |
| Kitfort KT-704-1 | There is a delayed start function, heating of the flask and automatic shutdown after 45 minutes. | ₽ 2 690 |
| Gemlux GL-CM-77 | The volume of the flask is 1.2 liters, the power is 1050 W, there is a built-in coffee grinder with adjustment of the degree of grinding and the amount of water used. | ₽ 7 360 |
| KitchenAid 5KCM0802EER | There is a built-in coffee grinder, a function for adjusting the strength of the drink (the amount and volume of water can be adjusted), power - 1200 W. | ₽ 21 490 |
| Princess 249402 | Power is 1000 W, there is a readiness indication, strength adjustment, coffee grinder and delayed start. | ₽ 10 490 |
| Bosch ComfortLine TKA6A683 | The power is 1200 W, there is adjustment of the drink strength, heating of the flask and automatic shutdown. | ₽ 7 990 |
Comparison of price and characteristics
It’s quite difficult to quickly select the right drip coffee maker, so to make it easy to find a suitable option, the characteristics of each presented model are listed in the table.
| Model | Power, W | Volume, l | Dimensions, cm | Weight, kg | Average price, rub. |
| Polaris PCM 0632 | 600 | 0,75 | 19×25,8×27 | 1,6 | 1300 |
| Kitfort KT-719 | 900 | 1,4 | 22,5×31.5×17.5 | 1,8 | 2500 |
| REDMOND RCM-1510 | 1,5 | 26.2x33x18.6 | 1,57 | 3400 | |
| Philips HD7457 Daily Collection | 1000 | 1,2 | 22x29x22 | 1,42 | 3500 |
| Melitta Easy Top | 1050 | 1,38 | 16x30x21 | 1,4 | 3250 |
| De'Longhi ICM 15210 | 900 | 1,25 | 21x32x23 | 2,5 | 3950 |
| Oursson CM0400G | 0,6 | 16x29x25 | 2,9 | 4000 | |
| Bosch ComfortLine TKA 6A041 | 1200 | 1,25 | 29x36x23 | 2,3 | 5100 |
Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ
The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ coffee maker is specially designed to fill every morning with invigorating, velvety coffee . Correct lines, classic white plastic color and light weight of the coffee maker (only 2.9 kg) will make it a welcome guest in any kitchen, home or office.
The device will not keep its owner waiting, and in a matter of minutes it will prepare coffee, the taste of which cannot be forgotten.
The speed of operation is due to the high power of the device, which is 900 W, and high pressure (15 bar) . In order to start the brewing process, just load the necessary ingredients into the appropriate containers inside the coffee maker and turn on the device.
The machine will do the rest on its own. The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ coffee maker can not only brew coffee, but also keep it hot for several hours after preparation. The flask that comes with the device can hold about 960 ml of coffee. The device can prepare approximately this much at a time.
The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ drip coffee maker is made in stylish white color. This model will look great in any kitchen. You can prepare up to 8 cups of delicious, strong coffee.
For user convenience, the coffee maker is equipped with practical functions for heating the coffee pot, automatic shutdown , tea preparation, and an anti-drip system. There are 3 drink strength modes to choose from. Treat yourself to a cup of fresh and aromatic coffee in the morning. The set includes a special measuring spoon.
Functions
Additional functions and technical characteristics of the Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ model:
- Coffee used: ground
- Pressure: 15 bar
- Device power: 900-980 W (230-240 V)
- Control type: mechanical
- Settings: coffee strength control
- Shutdown: automatic
- Number of cups: 8
- Power-on indication: blue LED
- Anti-drip system
- Filter: permanent
- Accessories: measuring spoon
Main characteristics of the model:
- Coffee pot capacity: 0.96 l
- Weight: 2.9 kg
- Equipment dimensions: 293x346x167 mm
- Package dimensions: 40x35x25 cm
The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ coffee maker is truly what a true gourmet needs. The model has a drip type of brewing, thanks to which you can fully enjoy the unsurpassed aroma of your favorite drink.
The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ coffee maker has a power of 900 W , which is enough to provide you with an aromatic drink and excellent coffee within a few minutes. There are three preparation modes that allow you to prepare light, medium and strong espresso.
Advantages
Advantages of the model:
- exclusive design, compatible with other modern kitchen appliances;
- efficiency;
- compactness;
- ease;
- large bowl volume;
- convenient controls: large buttons and knobs, well-thought-out, understandable modes;
- reliability;
- fast work, the full volume is ready in 3-4 minutes;
- noiselessness;
- excellent assembly, no play of parts, no squeaks;
- the finished drink remains hot for a long time;
- The coffee maker has double walls, the outside of the coffee maker is cold, the inside is hot.
All buyers, without exception, note the stylish design of this coffee machine model. The compactness of the device, combined with clear and convenient controls, as well as build quality and reliability of operation are the main positive aspects of the device. The speed of preparation, the absence of noise and the ability to evaluate the excellent quality of the resulting drinks in a company of 8 people make you choose this model.
Flaws
Disadvantages of the model:
- cord length is too short;
- lack of display;
- no cord storage compartment;
- no timer;
- no indication of coffee/tea readiness.
A longer cord would make it easier to use this household appliance, allowing it to be connected without an extension cord anywhere in the kitchen. Storage of the cord in a separate compartment is not provided in this model, since the device is designed for infrequent transfers and constant work in one place.
To fully operate the device, there is not enough display and a timer so that coffee can be prepared at the right time and automatically. The listed disadvantages are minor and do not affect the main functions of the coffee machine.
Peculiarities
The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ coffee machine model has an additional ability, in addition to brewing coffee, to brew any type of tea. Therefore, in fact, this device can safely be called a kitchen appliance for preparing breakfast.
The convenience of this technique also includes options for choosing the strength of tea or coffee from 3 modes . The presence of a program for preparing your own recipe and heating cups before preparing hot drinks are two more pleasant features of the model.
Video review
Video review of this device in the video below:
Presentation and review of the coffee machine in the video below:
Results
The Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ coffee maker is made in an elegant style and allows you to prepare delicious and aromatic coffee for as many as 8 servings. In addition, the device contains a tea making function. The anti-drip system will keep your table and device clean throughout the entire cooking process. Panasonic NC-DF1WTQ is designed to be the ideal solution for making coffee and tea.
Melitta Enjoy
Melitta Group is a German company operating in various business areas, the main activities of which are the production and marketing of branded coffee products.
In Russia, it is best known for its high-quality, professional-grade coffee machines. Melitta Enjoy is a drip coffee maker, which, however, has retained the brand’s quality philosophy.
Many buyers are put off by the fact that, despite the German origin of the company, you can see the inscription “made in China” on the coffee maker . This discrepancy is due to the fact that part of the company's production capacity is located in this country. The location of the plant does not in any way affect the quality of assembly and materials used.
The manufacturer also offers customers service for 24 months (2-year warranty). This fact indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product being sold, its build quality and long service life.
Functions
Coffee maker functions:
- preparation based on ground coffee;
- automatic decalcification;
- adjusting the coffee strength (the so-called “aroma selector”);;
- adjusting the degree of water hardness;
- anti-drip system;
- cord storage compartment;
- automatic shutdown after prolonged non-use;
- auto-heating;
- rotating filter holder.
The device copes well with its main function - preparing a good Americano. Additional options such as decalcification and auto-heating only add points to the coffee maker.
Melitta Enjoy allows its owner to choose the strength of the drink thanks to the “aroma selector” function. Turning the knob allows you to get a stronger drink in the morning or a smoother coffee in the evening using the same type of ground coffee.
The glass coffee pot of the coffee maker holds 10-12 servings of coffee . If necessary, the preparation process can be interrupted without fear of spilling coffee: the coffee maker is equipped with an anti-drip valve that stops the flow of coffee when the coffee pot is removed. The filtration process will continue as soon as the coffee pot flask is returned to its place.
Peculiarities
The device is made in four colors - all-white, all-black, black-and-white, black-red.
Due to this, the coffee maker will fit into almost any interior, both office and home kitchen.
The coffee pot is made of transparent glass with a marking of the number of cups of coffee. And the rest of the body is made of high quality plastic.
Advantages
The advantages of the coffee maker include:
- high performance of the device;
- ergonomic control system;
- durable flask material (glass);
- ease of use.
The advantages of the device also include the ability to maintain high coffee temperature for a long time.
Melitta Enjoy is equipped with a special thermos jug to keep the drink hot for a long time. The coffee pot keeps the coffee hot for several hours after turning off the machine.
Flaws
The disadvantages of the coffee machine include:
- lack of pressure gauge;
- lack of energy saving mode;
- disposable filter;
- impossibility of self-cleaning.
Filters for Melitta Enjoy are exclusively paper. At the same time, the manufacturer recommends using only original ones.
This fact, as well as the fact that they are disposable, may cause some inconvenience to the user. Of course, the consumer can try to use non-original filters that are sold in any large store.
However, you will first need to select exactly the type of filter in size and shape that is ideal for Melitta Enjoy. Otherwise, there is a risk of coffee grounds getting outside the filter and contaminating the coffee maker.
The manufacturer's use of disposable filters is difficult to explain from the user's point of view. It's definitely hygienic.
However, a quality dishwasher-safe nylon filter would solve the problem. There is an opinion that the design of disposable filters by manufacturers is dictated solely by the commercial component of the issue.
Video review
Video presentation of this device in the video below:
Results
The coffee maker is not bad for preparing high-quality Americano at home or in a public place (office, coffee shop, beauty salon).
It prepares high-quality Americano (without foam) in a short period of time without much effort on the part of the user. At the same time, the coffee remains hot for a long time due to the thermal characteristics of the coffee pot.
The modern design, high reliability of German household appliances, as well as the attractive price of the Melitta Enjoy coffee maker make it an excellent choice for everyday use in the home or office kitchen.
The machine is not suitable for coffee gourmets who cannot imagine a high-quality Americano without foam (this result can only be obtained from a coffee machine that prepares the drink under pressure).
