17 Types of Coffee Makers & Brewing Methods: Which Is Right for You?
French press and stovetops and drips—oh my! If you’re in the market for a new way to brew, we’ll understand if you feel a little overwhelmed by the seemingly countless types of coffee makers out there. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to some of the most popular coffee brewing methods for brewers of all experience levels.
So whether you’re looking for a simple option for a fuss-free morning cup, a more adventurous manual method or just a fun changeup to your usual brew, you can explore all the different types of coffee makers below to find the perfect piece for your caffeine fix.
1. Drip Coffee Maker
Looking for the easiest possible route between your bed and your morning coffee? With programmable timers, Wi-Fi connectivity and Golden Cup Standard brewing, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for simplicity with a modern drip coffee maker.
Perks:
- Easy to use
- Versatile brewing options
- Programmable automatic brewing
Limitations:
- Limited customization for many models
- Slightly more complicated long-term cleaning and maintenance
- Requires counter space
How to use it: Place a disposable or reusable filter in the filter basket. Fill the water reservoir according to the amount of coffee you want to brew. Add roughly 1 tablespoon of medium to medium-fine ground beans per cup of coffee (keeping in mind a cup is 6 ounces for coffee makers). Program the brew time or begin automatic brewing.
Why to choose it: If you value simplicity, convenience and the ability to brew a range of batch sizes, a drip coffee maker is probably for you.
2. Capsule Coffee Maker
For unmatched brew-as-you-go convenience, look no further than a capsule coffee maker.
Perks:
- Extremely easy to use
- Very easy cleanup
- Fresh coffee anytime you want it
Limitations:
- Only able to brew one cup at a time
- Requires regular descaling
- Creates more waste than other brewing methods
How to use it: When using a pre-filled pod, simply add the pod, fill the water reservoir, place a mug underneath the spout and begin brewing with the setting that corresponds to your mug size. To use your preferred ground coffee, simply add 1-2 tablespoons to a refillable pod and follow the rest of the steps the same way.
Why to choose it: If you like having access to a quick, fresh cup of coffee with virtually no measuring and very little cleanup, try a capsule coffee maker.
3. Pour Over Coffee Maker
The top choice of many coffee purists, pour over coffee makers enable you to brew a fully customized single cup or small batch so you can bring out the best in every bean.
Perks:
- Total control over brewing specs
- Brews right into your mug
- Easy cleanup and maintenance
Limitations:
- Brews only enough for one to two cups at a time
- Requires close attention for several minutes
- Small changes in brewing specs can alter the product
How to use it: Start by wetting your coffee filter and pre-warming your coffee mug with hot water. Add enough medium-coarse coffee for a roughly 1:18 ratio of coffee to water by weight (about 2 tablespoons per standard-size mug). Using a gooseneck pitcher, pour boiling water in slow circles over the grounds until the grounds are saturated. Repeat until you’ve filled your mug.
Why to choose it: Want to highlight every tasting note of a quality bean? Pour over coffee makers pay off a slightly longer brewing time with dynamic, top-notch java.
4. Pour Over Carafe
Many people imagine single-serve devices when they picture this brewing method, but carafes are great alternatives for those who want to manually brew larger batches of coffee.
Perks:
- Total control over brewing specs
- Higher capacity than single-serve pour overs
- Easy cleanup and maintenance
Limitations:
- Coffee may grow cold if brewing takes too long
- Requires a separate vessel to stay hot for longer periods of time
- Capacity is still somewhat limited
How to use it: Start by wetting your coffee filter and pre-warming the carafe with hot water. Add enough medium-coarse coffee for a roughly 1:18 ratio of coffee to water by weight (lower the ratio for a stronger cup). Using a gooseneck pitcher, pour boiling water in slow circles over the grounds until the grounds are saturated. Repeat as the water drains until you’ve poured the desired amount of water.
Why to choose it: If you’re a coffee purist who also likes to brew multiple cups at a time, a pour over carafe is for you.
5. Automatic Pour Over Coffee Maker
Love the flavor-forward brew of a pour over but need the ease of a drip coffee maker? Get the best of both in one machine that dispenses water with a showerhead designed to emulate the careful, even coffee bed saturation method of a pour over.
Perks:
- Brings out the balanced flavor of a pour over
- Expertly calibrated to meet optimal brewing conditions every time
- Offers simple, automatic brewing
Limitations:
- Some models may not offer advanced features like scheduled brewing
- Brewing capacity is generally less than standard drip machines
- Automatic brewing offers slightly less customization than a standard pour over
How to use it: The brewing process is similar to that of a standard drip coffee maker. Start by filling the reservoir with the desired amount of water. Add medium ground coffee at 1-2 tablespoons per desired cup of brewed coffee into the filter basket. Press the brew button, watch the showerhead’s slow saturation process and enjoy!
Why to choose it: If you want the convenience of drip brewing but want to take the flavor up to a slightly more sophisticated level, look for a pour-over-style automatic coffee maker.
6. French Press
Among all the many different kinds of coffee makers, the French press is easily one of the most recognizable. This standby manual coffee maker is deceptively simple and produces a distinctively textured brew.
Perks:
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Produces a robust flavor
Limitations:
- May add some sediment to the bottom of the batch
- Requires a separate vessel to stay hot for longer periods of time
- Brews coffee with less subtlety and brightness than a pour over
How to use it: Prepare the carafe by pouring in one cup of boiling water. As the carafe warms, prepare coarse ground coffee for a 1:12 ratio of coffee to water by weight (by volume, try starting with 1 tablespoon coffee per 4 ounces of water). Empty the carafe and add grounds. Pour half the total water and let steep for one minute. Stir grounds and add remaining water. Let sit for a total (including first steeping) of four to six minutes, press the plunger and serve.
Why to choose it: For those who want to add a manual brewer to their coffee-making arsenal, a French press is an easy-to-use option, whether you want one cup or a full batch. For a more detailed guide, check out our French Press vs. Pour Over comparison.
7. AeroPress Coffee Maker
This more recent brewing innovation has become a popular choice for those who like to brew clean, bright cups of hot or iced coffee and espresso on the go—and those who like to take a more hands-on approach. The AeroPress uses a hand-powered plunger to pressurize water through grounds.
Perks:
- Able to make well-balanced, drip-style coffee, cold brew or espresso
- Requires no electricity and is highly portable
- Fast, simple brewing method
Limitations:
- Requires specialized filters
- Only brews one to three cups at a time
- Cleaning requires several steps
How to use it: Add one scoop of finely ground coffee (or more for a stronger cup) per cup. For drip-style coffee, add 175°F water to the desired volume level. Stir for about 10 seconds and then position the device over your coffee mug and gently press the plunger. Dilute with water or milk to taste, or drink as is for an espresso-strength pick-me-up.
Why to choose it: If you want a versatile, on-the-go brewing experience you can enjoy just about anywhere, you’ll love the AeroPress.
8. Vacuum Coffee Brewer
Looking for the latest in coffee-brewing gadgetry? Want smoother, lightly sweeter cups of coffee in a flash? Check both boxes with a vacuum coffee brewer that uses suction to thoroughly extract coffee in a matter of minutes.
Perks:
- Easily brews coffee in under four minutes
- Produces naturally sweeter, more robust coffee than traditional drip brewing
- Rechargeable battery lasts for up to 200 cups so you can use it anywhere, anytime
Limitations:
- Brewing capacity is limited to 13.5 ounces
- Requires occasional charging
- Brewing unit must be hand-washed
How to use it: Insert the reusable filter and press the unit into the carafe until it’s evenly sealed. Add four scoops of medium-fine coffee, fill with boiling water, stir and let sit for one minute before brewing. Once brewing is finished, let the vacuum dissipate for a few seconds before removing from the carafe to enjoy your coffee.
Why to choose it: For one to two fresh cups of flavorful, bright, naturally sweet coffee in minutes, you can’t beat vacuum coffee makers.
9. Moka Pot Stovetop Coffee Maker
The moka pot is one of the world’s most popular types of coffee-brewing apparatuses. This traditional coffee maker heats up right on your stovetop to bring you a strong, espresso-like brew that’s not for the faint of heart.
Perks:
- Produces an exceptionally strong brew
- No filter or outlet required
- Easy to clean, maintain and store
Limitations:
- Requires an open, partially exposed burner
- Produces coffee with a limited flavor range
- Takes longer to brew than other options
How to use it: Start boiling water in a kettle or pot. Fill the base or bottom of the moka pot up to the designated fill line with boiling water and place the filter basket above the water. Fill the filter basket with medium-fine to fine ground coffee. Using pot holders or dish towels, screw the base onto the pitcher just until tight.
Leaving the lid open, place the pitcher onto a burner set to low to medium heat. Once the coffee coming out starts to lighten to a creamy, golden color, carefully remove the pitcher from heat and close the lid. For best results, cool the base to slow extraction by running cold water over it or applying a cold wrap. Once the bubbling stops, it’s ready to serve.
Why to choose it: For those who like a bold, rich brew, this is as close as you can get to espresso without an espresso machine.
10. Percolator
A percolator coffee maker works by boiling water and continually funneling bubbles up into coffee grounds loaded into a basket at the top of the carafe. This classic coffee maker is perfect for brewing fast batches in large quantities.
Perks:
- Brews large batches of coffee quickly
- Keeps coffee hot for as long as you want
- Easy to use, clean and maintain
Limitations:
- May burn coffee if left on for too long
- Produces a limited flavor profile
- May leave sediment in the finished coffee
How to use it: Fill the carafe to the desired level. Add coarsely ground coffee to the filter basket, about 1 to 2 tablespoons per cup. For electric models, simply turn the brewing function on. For stovetop models, heat the carafe until the water boils and then drop the heat to just below a simmer for roughly one minute per cup.
Why to choose it: If you frequently find yourself serving multiple cups of coffee to guests, a percolator could be your go-to brewer for entertaining.
11. Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Think you can only get delicious, refreshingly bright cold brew from your favorite boutique coffee shop? Think again. Making cold brew at home is incredibly easy with one of these countertop brewers.
Perks:
- Largely hands-off brewing
- Allows you to make cold brew with your favorite bean
- Easy to use
Limitations:
- Home setups are designed for around 32 ounces of concentrate
- Brews coffee at room temperature
- Takes 12 to 24 hours to brew
How to use it: To brew 28 ounces of concentrate, add about 3.5 cups of very coarsely ground coffee to the brewing container. Pour 40 ounces of cold water over the grounds and cover, allowing to steep for up to 24 hours. Make sure the filter is in place and the carafe is positioned below the spout to release the brewed coffee. Dilute to taste with water or milk, roughly at a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio.
Why to choose it: If you crave perfectly crisp, refreshing iced coffee but don’t want to make a daily trip to your local coffee shop, this is how to get it right from your own refrigerator.
12. Smart Pour Over Coffee Maker
With built-in scales, Bluetooth connectivity and a precision valve, these versatile brewers can help you fine-tune your pour over skills to ensure you get the perfect cup of coffee (or even tea) every time.
Perks:
- Built-in scale ensures consistent brews
- Bluetooth connectivity guides you through the brewing process
- Can perform pour over, immersion and cold-drip brewing
Limitations:
- Only able to brew small batches at a time
- No automatic functionality
- Maintenance is somewhat more complex than traditional pour overs
How to use it: First, choose between immersion or pour over brewing—for immersion, leave the valve closed, and for pour over, leave it open. Whichever option you choose, this particular coffee brewing option comes with Bluetooth connectivity and an app that will walk you through the process.
Why to choose it: Want to try your hand at brewing coffee-bar-quality cups but need a little help? This option will help you get consistently artisanal results every time, no matter your experience level.
13. Single Serve Grind-and-Go Coffee Maker
For one-cup-at-a-time coffee drinkers, single serve coffee makers combine the ease of an automatic drip machine with the attention to detail you get with a pour over.
Perks:
- Grind-as-you-go freshness for any bean
- Automatic convenience
- A perfect cup anytime you want it
Limitations:
- Only brews one cup at a time
- Cleaning is more complicated than a pour over
- Requires more counter space than a pour over
How to use it: Make sure the filter is in place. Keep the hopper stocked with beans, or add 1 tablespoon of medium pre-ground coffee to the filter. Program the brew time or start your drip cycle.
Why to choose it: If you love having a fresh cup at any time and choosing your own beans, go with a grind-and-go coffee maker.
14. Espresso Maker
Whether your go-to specialty coffee drink is a traditional macchiato, dirty chai, vanilla oat milk latte, iced Americano or just a straight double shot, an espresso maker brings the boutique coffee bar to your kitchen.
Perks:
- The only way to brew truly authentic espresso at home
- Attached steaming wand allows you to create all your favorite milk drinks
- Features automatic and custom extraction options
Limitations:
- Only brews espresso
- Capable of brewing only one to two shots at a time
- Maintenance is more involved than it is for drip coffee makers
How to use it: Always make sure there’s plenty of water in the reservoir. Pack the filter basket with coffee ground specifically for brewing espresso. Tamp the grounds firmly and lock the portafilter into the group head. Initiate the extraction—if this is set to automatic, it will stop on its own; if it’s set to manual, then stop the extraction when you’ve pulled the desired amount. Drink it straight, add water, pour over ice or steam milk for a latte.
Why to choose it: If you want authentic shots, lattes, cappuccinos and Americanos in your own kitchen, an espresso machine is a home-barista necessity.
15. Automatic Espresso Maker & Coffee System
Whether you’re craving a decadent latte or want to sip casually on a few smooth cups of drip coffee, an all-in-one machine is a veritable brewing station in a box. This option is for those who want to bring the whole coffee shop to their kitchen.
Perks:
- Prepares beans using a built-in grinder for the freshest possible coffee
- Brews café-style espresso drinks by the cup and drip-style coffee by the pot
- Allows you to program custom settings to meet your exact specifications
Limitations:
- Requires occasional descaling
- Regular cleaning of several removable components is recommended
- Larger profile than many countertop coffee makers
How to use it: Make sure you’ve got plenty of water, beans and (if desired) milk for your drink of choice. Using the touch screen, select your drink and program any preferences for temperature, size, strength, etc. Get your mug or glass in place and start brewing!
Why to choose it: From milk-based coffee drinks to drip coffee, this premium option is the holy grail of coffee makers for those who want it all at the touch of a button.
16. Combination Coffee Maker
Espresso, or drip? If you answered both, this is the option for you. Get two different coffee makers in one machine so you can enjoy your standby pot of drip coffee and still indulge in an expertly poured latte at any time.
Perks:
- Brew everything from lattes to Americanos to drip coffee with one machine
- Features steam wand for the latte-ready milk of your choice
- 19-bar pressure ensures the elusive authentic espresso experience
Limitations:
- Espresso machines require a little more skill than automatic options
- Both portions of the unit need to be cleaned separately
- Takes up slightly more counter space than a standard drip coffee maker
How to use it: To brew espresso, always use coffee ground specifically for it. Pack the grounds into the filter basket, tamp and then lock the portafilter into the group head. Proceed with brewing, and then steam and add milk or dilute with water if desired. To brew drip coffee, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of medium ground coffee per cup to the filter basket, add the desired amount of water and begin brewing.
Why to choose it: If you want to brew espresso drinks like a barista and still get your daily dose of drip coffee, this option packages everything you need into one machine.
17. Coffee Urn
Need to serve an extra-extra large group of people? Keep the masses fully caffed with this crowd-pleasing electric coffee maker. Designed to brew super-sized batches and keep it hot for hours, this is the perfect option for meetings, gatherings and workspaces.
Perks:
- Brews 20 to 50 cups of coffee at a time
- Easy to use, operate and program
- Features automatic warming function
Limitations:
- Not ideal for small batches
- Can burn coffee if left hot for too long
- Very large profile
How to use it: Fill the water reservoir with the desired amount of water for the group you’re serving. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of medium ground coffee to the filter basket for each cup of water. Program the brew time or initiate the brew cycle.
Why to choose it: If you need to keep the coffee flowing all day long for a crowd, there’s nothing better than a coffee urn.
The Types of Coffee Machines & Brewing Methods
In summary, these 17 brewing methods and coffee maker types boil down to a few essential categories:
- Electric coffee makers
- Non-electric coffee makers
- Drip coffee makers
- Single-serve coffee makers
- Espresso machines
- Specialty coffee makers
Some options (like AeroPresses) might fit into more than one of these categories, and some (like coffee urns) may be designed for purposes that don’t suit your needs. The key is to first understand the type of coffee you like to drink and what kind of brewing process appeals to you.
But at the end of the day (or in this case, the beginning), you really can’t go wrong with any of these options. So once you’ve made your pick between these types of coffee makers and stocked up on all the coffee accessories you need, remember to have fun, experiment and enjoy!