Trivia question: What wakes you up every morning, picks you up when you’re down and has a knack for keeping you motivated throughout the day? If your answer is coffee, then you got it right. This go-to beverage is currently one of the most popular drinks worldwide, and honestly, we can’t see a reason why it shouldn’t.
Unfortunately, scoring a cup of freshly ground and brewed coffee is not always easy. And before you come up with an answer, no, spending a small fortune at Starbucks on your way to work is not the only option.
In fact, there’s another (more affordable) way to get your caffeine fix, and it involves you, a batch of freshly ground coffee beans and the push of a button. Ever heard of grind-and-brew coffee makers? These easy-to-use kitchen appliances turn your recently bought coffee beans into an aromatic brew from the comfort of your home. If that’s not convenient and cost-effective, then we don’t know what is.
So, whether you are just into the occasional after-dinner cappuccino or could readily live with a caffeine IV-drip attached to your arm, these top 5 grind-and-brew coffee makers make sure you get enough of this wakey juice with the push of a button. Let’s get our buzz on, shall we?
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Best Grind and Brew Coffee Maker Reviews for 2021
Knowing what to look for in a coffee maker is one thing. But, sniffing out the best one is another. To spare you the hours searching online and the frustration that comes from not finding what you’re looking for, we’ve gathered around the 5 best grind-and-brew coffee makers that will put your old Keurig to shame
1. DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine
View on AmazonIf you are looking for a high-end coffee maker that will provide you with the ultimate bean-to-cup experience, then this model is a dream come true for you. Capable of producing many cups of java at once and equipped with various flavor-enhancing settings (check below), this grind-and-brew machine will jazz up your coffee drinking habits. Intrigued much? Then, check out this maker’s best and could-be-better qualities for an in-depth decision.
- Patented Cappuccino System
For many, making a cup of cappuccino at home is next to impossible. However, featuring a patented system, this grind-and-brew coffee maker grants you front-row access to the frothiest cappuccino you've ever tasted just with the push of a button. In fact, this model sports a steam wand that allows you to mix milk and steam and finally give the coffee that creamy texture and froth you've always desired. What's more, this wand rotates 180o, increasing your flexibility while in use. That's perfect for cappuccino rookies, so most of us.
- High-Quality Boiler
It also has a patented boiler which is specially designed to distribute heat evenly throughout the chamber, guaranteeing a perfect cup of cuppa every time. Plus, you get to adjust the temperature, so no surprises or burnt tongue tips there.
- Cups of All Sizes
This DeLonghi appliance allows you to adjust the height of the coffee spigots which means that you can use all types of containers, from tall mugs to small espresso cups.
- Grind Coarseness Regulator
This product also features adjustable grind settings. That helps you determine just how coarsely or finely the beans should be crushed.
- Long-Lasting Potential
This coffee machine also comes with a decalcification warning light which lets you know when it's time to get rid of the built-up calcium inside the water tank or other surfaces that came in contact with hard H2O. You see, after years (or sometimes months) of use, the minerals found in hard water get stuck on the surrounding surfaces and build up a hard-to-crack crust. Knowing when to maintain it helps you keep the device in tip-top condition for many years.
- Easy to Clean
No one likes to spend time on cleaning. And that's why this coffee maker is worth the investment. To be exact, it features several removable parts (water tank, bean container, and boiler) which help you reach even those corners that no one has access to. Not to mention that since it's so easy to clean, you don't need to use any harsh detergents which are bound to spoil the maker's quality down the line. PS: These detachable parts are not dishwasher-safe.
- Coffee Strength Settings
This device also has coffee flavor dial which allows you to adjust just how strong your coffee should be. From weak to normal to strong, this feature can accommodate all java lovers, whether we're talking about caffeine maniacs or occasional sippers. Just tweak the amount of water you want in your coffee, and the appliance will take it from there.
- Large Capacity
According to the manufacturer, this model comes with a 60-ounce water tank and a 7-ounce bean container. That means that it can produce multiple cups of coffee in one go. If you love your caffeine, then this feature will come in pretty handy.
- Compact Design
Despite its large capacity, this coffee maker features a compact design. Sure, it may take up a distinct amount of your counter space, but it's clean lines and rectangular shape allow it to fit anywhere.
- Top-Notch Grinding
This appliance comes with a built-in burr grinder. As mentioned above, this type of grinder ensures all coffee beans are crushed to perfection, leaving no chunks behind. As a result, your brew is as smooth as possible which comes in very handy when you are preparing espresso or cappuccino.
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- Noisy
Many previous owners mention that this model can be somewhat loud during the grinding process. To be fair, though, this is normal.
2. Cuisinart DGB-625BC Grind-and-Brew Coffee Maker
View on AmazonIf you want to be sure that your coffee is filtered to perfection, then this model is your cup of coffee tea. Sporting a charcoal water filter and a permanent gold tone filter, this coffee machine makes sure no grinding residues reach your java juice or spoil its flavor. But, that’s just the beginning. This grind-and-brew machine has a bunch of other features that can even convert coffee haters into home baristas. So, let’s take a look at all the other perks that come with this high-tech appliance.
- Large Capacity
This model is designed to produce up to 12 cups of coffee in one go.
- Automatic Shut-Off Feature
It happens to the best of us: You wake up late and rush your way out the door without turning off the coffee maker. Don't fret just yet! This “smart” device comes with an automatic shut-off feature that turns the whole system off moments later. Of course, this timeframe depends on your preference since the appliance can keep running anywhere from 0 to 4 hours after use.
- Adjustable Brewing Volume
It's true: Brewing 12 cups of coffee can be too much if you are not in the mood for it or just living solo. That's why this model allows you to adjust the brewed volume through a 1- to 4-cup setting. Just decide how much you want to drink and set the respective amount.
- High-Quality Filtering System
Equipped with various filtering features, this coffee maker is a synonym for a refined brew. Specifically, it has a gold tone filter and a filter basket with a cover. Both of these compartments collect any stray ground bean residues and prevent them from infiltrating your brew and ruining its taste. Not only that, but these filters can be easily removed from the machine with the push of a release button. That makes their maintenance a breeze.
- Brew Pause Feature
This unique feature helps you stop the brewing cycle momentarily, most often to enjoy some of the fresh coffee. So, as you activate this feature, you can pause the flow of the brew from the basket and this way you can remove the carafe from its place for up to 20 seconds. Once you fill your cup, you need to put the carafe back in place and resume the process.
- Cord Storage Option
Despite its compact design, this coffee maker also features a unique cord storage option which saves you even more counter space. That's especially helpful if you have a small/tiny kitchen.
- LCD Display
It also comes with a high-end LCD screen that allows you to check the time and the preferred time for the auto on feature.
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- Tricky to Clean
From the grinder to the filter area, this model has a lot of hard-to-reach spots and can be cumbersome to clean. For example, the mill is located at the top of the machine and under a lid. Besides being difficult for an adult to put his/her hands in there, this small grinder can handle just a small number of beans and is often jammed with coffee bean residues between uses.
3. KRUPS KM785D50 Programmable Grind-and-Brew Coffee Maker
View on AmazonIf you are on the market for a coffee maker that is straightforward to use but still has enough features to personalize your brew, then you need to add this model to your cart. From various grind and flavor strength settings to an auto start function, this appliance lays a bunch of options at your feet through an easy-to-navigate LCD. But, that’s not all. Let’s see what else this device has in store for coffee enthusiasts out there.
- Large Brewing Capacity
This maker's carafe can hold up to ten cups. That said, you can decide just how many cups you want it to make every time simply by adjusting the 2- to 10-cup setting.
- Auto-Start Function
Do you want to wake up to the smell of freshly ground coffee? Now you can! This model has an auto-start feature that allows you to set the time when your grinder will crush the beans and turn them into an excellent brew.
- Adjustable Burr Grinder
This kitchen appliance sports a built-in burr grinder that crushes beans evenly. But, the good news doesn't end here. You also have the chance to adjust your grinder, from extra coarse to extra fine.
- Digital LCD Control Panel
From checking the time to helping you navigate through settings, the LCD screen on this maker allows you to have full access to everything surrounding your brew. Talk about a high-quality experience!
- Keep Warm Feature
Thanks to its high-tech design, this product is also designed to keep your fresh brew warm for up to two hours. That's especially convenient for when you've set the auto-start function on at a specific time but don't feel like getting up just yet.
- Flavor Settings
This model comes with an adjustable flavor setting which tweaks the brew's caffeine intensity from strong to medium to weak.
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- Hard to Clean
The carafe is pretty much the only detachable part of this grind-and-brew maker. That means that you have to clean the rest of it on the spot. Jokes aside, that be tricky, especially if you consider its many hard-to-reach places such as the pathway from the grinder to the filter basket. So, note that you'll never be able to clean it as good as you'd like.
4. Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control
View on AmazonIf you want to invest in a durable coffee maker that will last for many years, this model is all you need. Made of stainless steel and sporting a sturdy structure, it is resistant to corrosion and doesn’t break easily. But, the best is yet to come. Here’s everything else you need to know about this reliable grind-and-brew coffee machine.
- Large Brewing Capacity
The carafe can hold up to 12 cups of your favorite drink. However, what's impressive about this maker is that despite its massive brewing capacity, it can be set to produce just one cup of coffee if needed. Not only that but it has a removable tray which allows you to swap between the carafe and cups of all sizes.
- Space-Saving Design
Despite producing massive amounts of a cuppa, this appliance has a compact design which fits perfect to small-ish and tiny kitchens.
- Easy to Clean
From the carafe to the grinder, this model has a clean, straightforward design which helps you reach even the toughest of spots. As a result, cleaning is rather easy.
- LCD Display
Being the high-quality device that it is, this product features an easy-to-use interface/LCD screen which shows you everything from the water level and the coarseness setting to the time it takes for the beans to grind.
- Auto-Start Feature
Unlike many of its peers, this model has an auto-start setting which grinds your beans without you being physically there. You just need to pre-set the time, and the maker will take it from there.
- Various Grinding Settings
It comes with six different grinding options which allow you to enjoy each coffee bean variety to the fullest, whether you are preparing a cup of espresso or go for an instant coffee brew.
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- Slow Dripping
Since it comes with a thermal carafe (and not a glass one), dripping is often awkward and slow, making you wait longer than usual for a cup of java.
5. Capresso 465 Coffee Team TS Digital Coffee Maker
View on AmazonIf you are interested in a grind-and-brew coffee maker with a simple interface, then this model is a safe best. Through a set of easy-to-understand buttons, it allows you to customize your coffee without even opening the manual. But, here’s what you should keep in mind before adding it to your shopping list.
- Automatic Shut-Off Feature
Even when it's done brewing, this coffee machine remains active by warming up your brew. However, it automatically shuts down after two hours to prevent any accidents. That's helpful for anyone who forgets easily or rushes out the door every morning.
- Multiple Grinding Options
Thanks to its abrasive design, the burr grinder of this maker can crush the beans based on your liking, from coarse to fine.
- Brew Pause Function
This model comes with a unique feature that allows you to pause the maker's regular cycle mid-brew and serve yourself some of the fresh java.
- Digital Control Panel
It has a digital control panel which grants you access to every function of the appliance, from channeling your preferred grinding option to checking the time.
- High-Quality Grinder
It comes with a burr grinder which is known for crushing beans uniformly and leaving no large chunks behind.
- Durable Materials
The carafe is made of stainless steel which guarantees a long-lasting experience.
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- Beans Don't Flow Into The Grinder
Many previous owners of the appliance report that the grinder is not always working in tip-top condition. In fact, don't flow into the mill, causing an uneven proportion of water/coffee which messes with the drink's taste. When that happens, just mix the beans with your hand to keep the flow going.
What Is A Grind-and-Brew Coffee Maker?
As the name suggests, a grind-and-brew coffee maker is a medium-sized kitchen appliance that is used to grind coffee beans on the spot and then brew them until you get a fresh batch of your beloved java.
Specifically, this device consists of two parts/compartments, the grinder, and the brewer. So, unlike what you’ve seen so far, the mill becomes part of the brewing cycle which saves you precious time and also spares you the mess from transferring the powder between a grinder and a conventional coffee maker. Long story short, this appliance is specially designed to perform two different coffee brewing tasks in one go.
Why Use A Grind-and-Brew Coffee Maker
Some would argue that any coffee -no matter the quality- can do the trick. The truth is, though, that nothing compares to the flavor and aroma of freshly ground and brewed coffee. Sadly, no regular maker can do that, so we’re happy to embrace a model with first-grind-and-then-brew features. Still, this is just one of the reasons to invest in such appliance. If you are intrigued to find out the rest, read on, and you’ll see why this device is well worth a spot in your kitchen.
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Fresh Coffee At Your Disposal Round the Clock
Being a coffeeholic is a tricky business. You never know when the “hunger” for a cup of java will strike and to what lengths you’ll go to get some. But, that’s never an issue when you have a grind-and-brew coffee maker around, be it in the middle of the night, noon or early in the morning. This easy-to-use machine can have your jitter juice ready in minutes, and most importantly it will be fresh AF. Heck, the beans were ground moments ago, so that’s a given.
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Saving Money
No matter how you see it, skipping the purchase of a grind-and-brew coffee machine is a total waste of money. First of all, if you drink coffee regularly and don’t have a maker around, you are bound to buy some while on the go which is always overpriced compared to the brew you can make at home.
However, even if you do decide to make a cup of fresh Joe at home, you still need to buy a grinder and maker separately. Again, that’s much pricier than opting for a grind-and-brew coffee machine and essentially getting two for the price of one. Now, that’s some “smart” shopping right here.
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Saving Time
If you are anything like us, getting out of bed in the morning can be a struggle. Of course, hitting the snooze button one too many times means that you often don’t have the time to do other important things like -say- make a cup of coffee.
That is where the grind-and-brew coffee machine steps in. Thanks to its simple function, this appliance takes minutes to prep a cup of freshly brewed Joe without the slightest help from you. All you need to do is add the coffee beans to the grinder, push the START button and get the java flowing. Meanwhile, you can do other things, from picking an outfit for the day to making a hearty breakfast. That’s a huge time saver!
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Making Less of a Mess
Avid coffee drinkers or not, we’ve all had to learn our way around this kitchen staple, be it in the form of granules or powder. But, while ground coffee beans are our medium to a cup of much-needed jolt, chances are they’ll cause a mess along the way. Things tend to be much worse when you’re using a grinder and a coffee maker separately, and you are trying to transfer the powder from one to the other. However, grind-and-brew coffee makers eliminate such issues and spare you the cleaning as grinding is part of the brewing process.
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Saving Lots of Countertop Space
Having two separate coffee making appliances, one for grinding and another one for brewing, is bound to take up much of your countertop (or cabinet) space. That said, a grind-and-brew machine prevents you from building up cluster around your kitchen and makes your life that much simpler.
What to Look For When Shopping For A Grind-and-Brew Coffee Maker
Between crushing the coffee beans to perfection and brewing a cup of hot coffee in a matter of minutes, a grind-and-brew coffee maker is one of the most essential kitchen appliances you’ll ever acquire. For that reason, you can’t afford a screw-up. So, to minimize your chances of investing in the wrong model, we’ve rounded up the five most important things to consider when you are out shopping for a coffee maker.
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Size
One of the first things you need to keep in mind when shopping for a grind-and-brew coffee machine is its size. Depending on your needs, you need to decide whether you should opt for a maker with a large or small carafe. So, consider how many coffee drinkers there are in your household and how much of the energy-boosting java they need to keep things going. Pro tip: If everyone in your house drinks coffee like crazy, keep an eye out for a maker that can hold at least 10 or 12 cups of the drink at once.
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Type of Grinder
Even though the quality of the coffee beans you use plays a huge role in the brew’s aroma and flavor, it’s also up the grinder to take things up a notch. So, make sure you pay close attention to the type of mill that’s installed in your future grind-and-brew coffee machine. That said, note that you have two options to choose from, the burr and the blade grinder.
A coffee machine with a burr grinder has two abrasive burrs. The main advantage of this appliance is that it crushes coffee beans evenly, so there’s little chance of them being coarsely ground and finely powdered at the same time. It’s either one or the other based on your settings.
On the flip side, a coffee maker with a blade grinder has a blade located in the center of the grinding chamber. So, when you add the beans, the blades rotate and crush as many of them as possible. It pretty much works like a kitchen food processor. Note that this option is cheaper than burr grinders, but in some cases, it’s not as efficient as them.
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Carafe Material
Carafe doesn’t need an introduction, but for those of you who don’t know, it is the container that holds the freshly brewed coffee. Depending on the material it’s made of, this part of the coffee maker can make or break the deal as it strongly affects the quality of the brew. With that in mind, carafes can be either thermal or glass.
Glass carafes are very durable, so they usually come with a hotplate underneath them. This way your coffee remains warm for up to an hour after brewing. Glass carafes also tend to be open-aired which means that the coffee’s nose-tingling aroma will flood your kitchen every time you’re at it.
On the other hand, thermal carafes don’t feature a hotplate, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t keep your coffee warm. Instead, they are well-insulated, usually with the addition of a double wall of stainless steel. As a result, there’s a vacuum between these two surfaces which minimizes heat loss via air convection.
Even though both types perform pretty much the same tasks and are equally efficient, the final choice is up to you. So, consider your kitchen’s décor, and ambiance and the right decision will follow.
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Grind Settings
Grind settings are another essential feature to look out for when shopping for this type of coffee makers. Contrary to popular belief, these settings can bring out the best or worst in your brewing experience. To be exact, grind settings adjust just how fine or coarse the beans will be ground which varies depending on their origin.
So, whether you want to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee (ground to the point of no return) or you are just in the mood for a cold brew (extra coarse grind), these settings can help you take your coffee drinking experience to a whole new level.
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Automatic Shut-Off Feature
Safety is a priority, especially when you have to deal with appliances that produce a significant amount of heat. With that in mind, it’s best to look for a model that comes with an automatic shut-off feature that could prevent any accidents. So, next time you rush out the door in the morning and forget to unplug the coffee maker, you can feel rest assured that this feature stepped in and took care of this issue for you.
Final Thoughts
Let’s be honest: Nothing can beat the aroma and flavor of a freshly ground brew. Making some from the comfort of your home sounds like the best way to achieve that, but choosing the right maker is not always easy as there’s a ton of options out there. However, these top 5 grind-and-brew coffee machines are definite winners as they combine functionality with a compact design. So, are you ready to satisfy your inner coffee geek?