Coffee Makers Features Comparison

Although no cheap automatic-drip coffee maker is going to be perfect, some features may suit some consumers better than others and help make the morning rush to caffeinate a little easier. Capacity is typically measured in cups -- although not a standard 8-ounce cup. Depending on the size of mug you use, a 12-cup pot really holds about four to six cups. While most low-cost coffee makers have glass carafes, two of our picks dispense directly into a mug, which tends to yield a hotter cup of coffee. Glass carafes sit on a heated plate to keep the coffee warm, and the burner usually turns off automatically after a couple of hours. Programmable coffee pots allow you to set a timer so coffee is waiting when you wake up. Height is important to note because a coffee maker usually needs to fit under a cabinet. Bear in mind that almost all models have lids that lift up to allow access to the water reservoir and may have to be moved to make room for that task. Extra features available at this price include a water filtration system that removes chlorine, which can mar the taste of coffee; a cleaning indicator to remind you when it's time to decalcify the pot, which is necessary to keep brew times short; and a "strong" setting that brews a bolder cup without requiring more coffee grounds.