Is there really a difference between coffee makers?

While the process seems simple, different coffee makers can produce different results. The temperature of the water affects the flavors that are extracted from the ground grains, while the time the water is in contact with the grains can affect the intensity of the infusion.

Is there really a difference between coffee makers?

While the process seems simple, different coffee makers can produce different results. The temperature of the water affects the flavors that are extracted from the ground grains, while the time the water is in contact with the grains can affect the intensity of the infusion. If coffee is nothing more than a tool to jump-start your body throughout the day, then you might want a cheap coffee maker. The OXO Good Grips cold coffee maker produces the tastiest beverage and is the easiest to use and clean.

Over the years, we've tried just about every method for making coffee, from cold coffee makers and the Chemex to moka pots and Moccamasters. Cleaning the coffee maker regularly and thoroughly will help the coffee maker last longer and make the coffee taste better. But there's a reason that only one of those machines is certified by the American Specialty Coffee Association to brew coffee to Gold Cup standards. A Moka coffee maker is a popular coffee maker that produces a dark brew comparable to espresso, but, according to Italy's National Espresso Institute, it's not considered espresso because it doesn't use the required nine bars of pressure.

The OXO Brew Pour-Over kettle is ideal for people who prepare coffee for pouring (the gooseneck nozzle offers better aim) or for tea lovers who will be thrilled with its perfect temperature accuracy. A French press works by gently soaking ground coffee in freshly boiled water to make a full-bodied cup of coffee. On the other hand, premium coffee makers, the Breville Precision Brewer, are made for people who buy whole grain coffee and grind it themselves. Specialty coffee packed in compostable bags makes it easy to enjoy a nice, full-bodied cup of coffee while traveling.

Traditional iced coffee is prepared by pouring ready-made coffee over ice, but the cold brewing method does not use heat, resulting in a rich, full-bodied brew. While Derochowski says single-serving coffee makers, such as those from the Keurig brand, are the fastest-growing subcategory, sales of espresso machines, pouring coffee machines and French presses are also increasing. Some drip coffee makers have an additional brewing system, such as a hot water dispenser or a single-serving coffee maker, that is compatible with K-cups for greater versatility.

Glenna Matthys
Glenna Matthys

Hardcore internet practitioner. Wannabe beer advocate. Infuriatingly humble beer expert. Devoted coffee evangelist. Hardcore social media scholar. Friendly beer fanatic.