Features of the Best Coffee Makers

When you're out shopping for a coffee machine, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Regardless of what type of machine you're looking for, the best ones all share these characteristics.

Water should be heated to a sufficient temperature. The Specialty Coffee Association of America advises that the best brewing temperature ranges between 195°F and 205°F, as the water comes out of the spray head. It can be difficult to test this yourself, so ideally the coffee maker should have 1000 W of power at minimum. Also, the water should be in contact with the coffee grounds for between six and eight minutes.

A good coffee maker should allow you to adjust the strength. Some machines, such as a vacuum coffee maker or French press, allow for precise control. A well-designed drip coffee maker can also allow for at least some variation in coffee strength.

A small batch setting is the perfect feature if you only brew a couple of cups of coffee at a time. Bhis setting is useful because it adjusts the water flow so that smaller batches of coffee have the same full flavor.

For those that don't drink the whole pot of coffee immediately, a thermal carafe is a blessing. Unlike a traditional glass carafe, which cooks the coffee if left too long on the warming plate, a thermal carafe keeps coffee warm without risk of burning.

An auto shutoff feature is a very good idea if you're in the habit of forgetting to turn off your coffee machine. A glass carafe is easily ruined if the coffee inside gets burned.

Having a programmable timer on your coffee machine is practically a necessity. Most people just don't have enough time in the morning to make coffee, and do everything else that needs to be done. The timer lets you set up your coffee maker the night before, so that you got a fresh pot brewed in the morning.

If you're the type that can't wait for that first cup of coffee, then the pause and serve feature is just for you. It lets those, who can't wait, to grab a cup of coffee while it is still brewing.

Reusable filter baskets are a feature that has both advantages and disadvantages. There are those who feel that reusable filters produce better coffee than paper filters. But if they're not cleaned properly after each use, residue will quickly build up. Reusable filters are not as fine as paper ones. A greater amount of residue is usually found in the bottom of the cup.

A self-cleaning cycle is extremely practical if you live in an area with hard water. This feature makes the descaling process much easier. Gradually, mineral deposits build up inside the coffee maker, restricting water flow. Descaling, usually using vinegar, removes those deposits and allows the machine to function properly.

The more of these features your coffee machine has, the better. If you can get a machine with all these features at a good price, then you've got yourself a bargain.