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Recent global events have significantly reduced how frequently we venture outside, leading many to prepare coffee at home more often. However, a large number of people are still using outdated or low-quality coffee machines, or even single-serve pod systems. Below are some excellent options to improve your home coffee experience or to provide a wonderful gift for a coffee enthusiast.

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While most supermarkets offer inexpensive drip coffee makers that function sufficiently, a device used daily should be something enjoyable, rather than simply functional.

However, operating a coffee maker shouldn’t be overly complicated – especially before your first cup of the day. In my experience, models with touchscreens and accompanying apps often introduce unnecessary complexity. Therefore, I evaluated several coffee makers that prioritize both quality and ease of use, and after several weeks of testing, I’ve identified my top recommendations.

A Choice for Design Enthusiasts: The OXO 8-Cup Coffee Maker

Advantages:

• Features a space-saving, intelligently designed build
• Offers a variety of genuinely helpful functions
• Comes with a thermal carafe

Disadvantages:

• Brewing a single cup requires a somewhat complex process
• Could potentially use coffee grounds more effectively

OXO has earned its standing as a creator of quality kitchen products, and while some of their offerings can feel overly complex, this isn’t the case with the 8-cup coffee maker. It successfully combines careful design considerations with ease of use and overall quality. I can recommend this model without hesitation: if you're undecided on which coffee maker to choose, this is an excellent option.

The OXO 8-cup model is the more compact version of the 9-cup option, sacrificing programmable brewing functionality for streamlined operation and the ability to brew a single cup using a separate basket designed to be compatible with Kalita filters. Both the reservoir and basket covers lift up easily – the latter directing condensed water safely into the filter – and the basket itself is firmly positioned yet readily removable.

The resulting coffee is consistently of high quality; I would describe it as comparable to, but perhaps slightly milder than, the KBGV model mentioned below. It brews directly into a thermal carafe, which includes a dedicated opening in the lid for easy pouring. Nearly every aspect of this machine is engineered for simplicity and dependability, ensuring a consistently successful brewing experience.

It was difficult to identify significant drawbacks, but the need to maintain a separate basket that requires a different filter type, and then make adjustments to accommodate a single mug, could be considered somewhat inconvenient. However, the single-cup brewing feature is available and doesn’t detract from the machine’s other strengths.

The machine also suggests using a slightly higher ratio of coffee grounds per cup compared to the KBGV, which, while not a substantial difference, may result in brewing one fewer pot from a standard 16 oz bag of coffee.

Cost: $170 directly from OXO

For the FBI stakeout: Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV

Pros:

• Features a sleek, retro-institutional aesthetic
• Delivers a consistently robust and dependable brew
• Includes an automatic warming plate

Cons

• Comprises numerous detachable components
• The materials used don't quite match the cost

This KBGV model produced coffee I particularly enjoyed, and I believe it possesses a distinctive appearance – the kind you might find in the backdrop of a 1970s film depicting an FBI surveillance field office. In contrast to the OXO’s subtle and unassuming design, intended to blend into contemporary kitchens, the KBGV is striking and polished.

The coffee it produces is equally impactful: consistently strong and full of flavor. I also found its #4 filter system to be quite effective in utilizing coffee grounds.

The compact glass carafe rests on a hot plate that stays active for approximately an hour following the brewing cycle, a convenient feature, though it necessitates remembering to switch it off. It won’t pose a safety hazard, but it will remain heated.

My primary concern with the KBGV is that the reservoir and basket covers are simply placed on top, rather than being attached with hinges, which adds extra steps to the brewing process of removing and replacing several parts. While a minor issue, these components, along with the carafe lid and basket, are constructed from a fairly standard plastic, rather than a more robust material. Considering the premium price point, I would anticipate a more refined and user-friendly experience.

Fortunately, these parts are readily replaceable, and Technivorm provides a comprehensive warranty.

Price: $330 from Technivorm

For the ‘gram: Ratio 8

Advantages:

• Strikingly attractive design
• High-quality construction materials
• Exceptionally straightforward to use

Disadvantages:

• Lacks a warming function for brewed coffee
• Considerably large in size
• Represents a significant financial investment

Without question, this machine is the most visually appealing of those reviewed (though my personal preference leans towards the unique appeal of the KBGV). The Ratio 8, featuring a combination of wood and textured metal, is clearly intended as a statement piece. Its substantial size makes concealment impractical – it’s quite large – and the robust power cable extends directly from the rear, necessitating a central location.

Essentially, this device functions as an automated Chemex coffee maker (Chemex also produces its own model, which I attempted to evaluate but did not receive a response regarding). This description provides a comprehensive understanding of its operation. Chemex, known for its wooden-collared, one-piece carafes and exceptionally thick filters, is often considered the premium option in drip coffee brewing, embodying a certain level of luxury. I appreciate its design, but also recognize its somewhat extravagant nature. A machine that automates this process – and does so effectively!

However, as a Chemex brewer, it performs admirably. It delivers the distinct clarity characteristic of the Chemex brewing method, and the presentation of coffee from these carafes is particularly pleasing. Operation is simplified to a single button press, initiating a brief bloom phase before gradually saturating the coffee grounds with the water from the reservoir.

I discovered that the Ratio 8 performs optimally when brewing a full carafe. When preparing a half-carafe, I observed a tendency towards over-saturation, resulting in under-extraction. Regrettably, this full carafe must be consumed promptly, as the Ratio 8, despite its size and cost, does not include a mechanism to maintain coffee temperature after brewing. A thermal carafe can be purchased separately, and the smaller Ratio 6 model, while not as visually impressive, is supplied with one.

The Ratio 8 is an excellent choice for those seeking a visually impressive and distinctive coffee machine. However, if your primary goal is simply to brew excellent drip coffee, the OXO or KBGV offers a more practical investment.

Price: $495 from Ratio

Numerous coffee brewing techniques exist, and while drip coffee is generally the simplest and most dependable for most users, the following, somewhat less conventional options are also viable and potentially more interesting as gifts.

FrankOne

Looking for a unique coffee brewing experience originating from Colombia, the heart of coffee production? The FrankOne is an innovative appliance designed to rapidly produce coffee resembling a pour-over brew. It achieves this by immersing coffee grounds in water, then utilizing a vacuum within the lower chamber to draw the brewed coffee upwards, effectively separating it from the grounds. This method proves highly effective, is powered by a rechargeable battery, and simplifies the cleaning process, particularly with access to a garbage disposal.

Price: $80 directly from FrankDePaula

ROK manual espresso maker

My decision to bypass the numerous sophisticated espresso machines available stemmed from their inherent complexity, high cost, and substantial maintenance demands. The ROK espresso maker represents a remarkably straightforward design, surpassed in simplicity only by a stovetop Moka pot.

Operating the ROK involves filling the provided espresso filter with coffee grounds and securing it to the machine, much like with other models. Hot water is then added to the upper reservoir, the levers are lifted, and a slow, consistent downward pressure is applied to force the water through the filter. The operation is genuinely this uncomplicated.

While the resulting espresso may not match the high-pressure output of a conventional machine, the quality is commendable. The process can be duplicated to increase the yield, effectively creating a beverage similar to an americano. The coffee brewed by the ROK shares characteristics with Moka pot coffee, but generally exhibits a milder flavor and reduced risk of bitterness.

The construction of this machine is exceptionally robust—to the point where it feels virtually indestructible. It is predominantly composed of solid metal, with the reservoir and bellows constructed from rubber. This device is durable enough to use for coffee preparation during outdoor adventures and potentially withstand other demanding situations.

The ROK provides an exceptional, electricity-independent coffee brewing method, although its practicality for everyday use may vary.

Price: $189 from ROK

Osma

I have not yet had the opportunity to personally evaluate this product, although I fully anticipate doing so soon. Designer Joey Roth has consistently delivered exceptional items, and this latest innovation appears to continue that trend. This new appliance employs a unique system for moving heated water through coffee grounds, enabling the creation of a drip-style coffee in a remarkably brief period, as well as cold brew and tea. If the person you’re shopping for appreciates innovative technology, this is a gift they likely haven’t discovered. While it does utilize pods, these are completely biodegradable and can be filled with your preferred coffee grounds or tea leaves.

Price: $185 from Osma

For many years, I have consistently relied on the pourover method as my primary means of coffee preparation, and it consistently yields an outstanding single cup of coffee, albeit with the trade-off of requiring a degree of time and attention.

Kalita Wave 185

Kalita offers its pourover cones in various sizes, and while I’ve been satisfied with my 155 model for a long time, looking back, I would choose the 185 size. It provides a bit more flexibility during the pouring process and allows for brewing larger volumes than the approximately 16 ounces my current cone realistically handles.

Price: $36 on Amazon

OXO’s pourover cone with tank

For those who don't relish the process of carefully pouring water over coffee grounds for the typical two to three minutes required for a single cup, OXO offers a convenient device to streamline the experience. This product is essentially a pourover cone featuring an integrated reservoir positioned above, which consistently releases water through a small number of precisely sized openings.

The resulting coffee was of good quality and brewed with very little effort; however, the reservoir’s volume is somewhat restricted. Consequently, brewing beyond 12 ounces will necessitate refilling the tank.

Price: $16 from Amazon

Kone and other metal filters

The quality of these reusable filters has improved significantly, and I personally use one designed to sit directly on a mug. This eliminates the need for paper filters altogether. However, I suggest these filters primarily for individuals with a garbage disposal or a sink capable of managing a substantial amount of coffee grounds, as the cleaning process often results in a considerable quantity of sediment going down the drain. While they require periodic thorough cleaning, they do offer a way to minimize waste, even if only slightly.

Price: Typically between $30 and $40, varying with the manufacturer.

Generally speaking, coffee subscriptions can be an excellent gift, but some preliminary investigation is necessary to ensure the recipient receives a coffee roast they will enjoy. I'm refraining from specific recommendations, as each service tends to focus on different aspects of coffee, but prioritizing independent roasters and fair trade practices over simply obtaining a consistent supply from a large corporation is a good approach.

Some potential choices:

• Trade Coffee – consistently receives positive feedback
• Mistobox – offers a diverse range of options
• Red Bay Coffee – a business owned and operated by Black entrepreneurs
• Angel’s Cup – provides a blind tasting experience (products are unlabeled)