Best 5-Cup Coffee Maker: Comparing Top Models

Because some days just require more coffee! Today we review the best 5-cup coffee makers available on the market.

For many of us, the day doesn’t start until after we’ve had our first cup of coffee. If you’re searching for a new machine, you’ll have to choose from hundreds (maybe even thousands) of options. Don’t worry, the best 5-cup coffee maker is just around the corner.

Ready to buy now? Here are a few of our favorites:

  1. Black + Deck 5-Cup Coffee Maker
  2. Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Switch Coffee Maker
  3. Holstein Housewares 5-Cup Coffee Maker

If you’ve been searching for a hard-working, compact coffee maker that can help you make the most of your mornings, you’ll want to check out our list of top picks below. 

BLACK + DECKER 5-Cup Coffee Maker

Though BLACK + DECKER is a brand that’s often associated with home improvement products, this company has produced some of the hardest-working, most durable kitchen appliances over the last decade or so. This compact coffee maker is no exception.

The uniquely designed carafe is not only aesthetically pleasing but it’s also designed to help prevent accidental drips. The raised glass lip that rises above the lid is a smart touch that works in tandem with the brew-pause feature.

With a pleasantly lit blue on/off switch, this 5-cup coffee maker might be one of the most calming to look at. The included water reservoir is great for keeping an eye on internal water levels.

The one con of this machine is the the lack of automatic shut-off. However, if you remember to unplug you should be good to go.

Things We Like

  • Designed to fit into tight spaces, including beneath cabinets
  • Includes a small water reservoir window to keep track of water levels
  • A specially-designed carafe helps eliminate spills
  • Brewing pauses when carafe is removed from the heated plate area

Things We Don’t Like

  • Doesn’t have an automatic shut-off feature, which can prove dangerous for forgetful users
  • Not a great fit for under-cabinet areas due to its lift-up basket design

Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Switch Coffee Maker

As you might imagine, Mr. Coffee appliances are explicitly designed for coffee lovers. Consequently, it should come as no surprise that their compact 5-cup coffee maker is one of our top picks. It’s not the fanciest machine on the market, but it is a solid, dependable choice.

This coffee maker also happens to be one of the most affordable brewers. If you’re working with a restricted budget, investing in this machine might help relieve a little stress while also helping you enjoy fresh-brewed coffee. 

The front on/off button is illuminated while the device is turned on, but it doesn’t have an automatic shut-off device. If your household contains young children or curious pets, this lack of safety features can be troublesome.

Still, this simple and budget-friendly coffee maker does have a brew-pause feature. It’s also one of the sturdiest and most compact 5-cup brewers, with a snap-on basket lid that helps keep steam away from your cabinets and face.

Things We Like

  • This coffee maker is one of the most affordable 5-cup models available, helping you to stay within budget
  • The basket area lid snaps closed tightly, helping to reduce steam release above the machine
  • Brewing pauses when the carafe is removed but starts again as soon as the carafe is placed back onto the warming pad
  • Comes in both black and white designs to help match your current kitchen’s look

Things We Don’t Like

  • Doesn’t have an automatic shut-off feature for safety, which can be dangerous for households with children
  • The bottom stainless steel ring on the carafe is prone to rusting after washing

Holstein Housewares 5-Cup Coffee Maker

Many modern kitchen appliances have a cold, refined look to them. It’s not uncommon to find silver stainless steel and dark black kitchen devices. One of the charming aspects of this Holstein Housewares coffee maker is its bright color and vintage aesthetic.

If you’re someone who enjoys stocking their kitchen with retro appliances, this coffee maker could be the perfect fit. It comes in four eye-popping colors and features a simple design that’s reminiscent of the coffee brewers from the 1950s.

And much like the appliances of old, this coffee maker is built to last. It even includes a reusable coffee filter to help you cut costs on disposable filters and reduce waste! Still, the basket on this machine does feature a lift-up lid, making it a poor choice for counters that sit beneath cabinets. 

Things We Like

  • Is available in four bright colors that may match your kitchen color palette and design scheme
  • Has a relatively large and long water reservoir window, helping you to keep your machine well-stocked with water
  • One of the smallest and most compact coffee makers, making it ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms
  • Covered by a 1-year limited warranty to help you avoid buyer’s remorse

Things We Don’t Like

  • The included carafe may drip or spill during pouring due to the plastic top’s design
  • Finely ground coffee may pass through the included filter, resulting in grounds at the bottom of your cup

KRUPS Simply Brew 5-Cup Coffee Maker

One of the first things we noticed about the KRUPS coffee maker was its chrome-like shine. The bulk of this coffee maker is covered in shiny stainless steel that matches many of our other modern kitchen appliances. 

This exterior wipes clean in seconds and is far more durable than plastic. And speaking of durability, if you invest in this coffee maker, you won’t ever need to purchase coffee filters ever again. That’s because the KRUPS Simply Brew comes with a reusable, high-quality filter.

The included measuring spoon is a nice touch, even if it’s not entirely necessary. Still, this coffee brewer doesn’t have an automatic shut-off feature or water level window. These two flaws might be enough to keep you searching for an alternative coffee maker.

Things We Like

  • Comes with a reusable permanent coffee filter to help you spend less on disposable filters
  • Features a modern stainless steel design that makes this machine easy to wipe clean
  • Accessories also include a coffee measuring spoon, helpful when preparing precise pots of joe 
  • One of the shorter compact coffee makers available

Things We Don’t Like

  • There’s no water reservoir window or indicator, making it tricky to tell how much water you need to add to your machine
  • The placement of the on/off switch makes it easy for users to accidentally turn this coffee maker on or off

Hamilton Beach 5-Cup Switch Coffee Maker

Hamilton Beach is well known for making some of the most affordable and long-lasting kitchen appliances. This 5-cup coffee maker may be on their simplest products, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a hard-working device.

This coffee maker has a simple on/off button on the side, so users will need to be careful when placing this machine. That said, this device has a swing-out basket that makes it a solid choice for under-cabinet spaces. 

The carafe and basket are both dishwasher-safe, which can cut clean-up time in half. Of course, some users have noted that reattaching the basket is a bit nerve-wracking, as the plastic connection pieces are prone to breaking. 

Things We Like

  • Is smart device compatible and can work with smart plugs
  • Has a swing-out coffee filter basket that’s ideal for under-cabinet placement and crowded kitchen counter tops
  • Could last years with proper cleaning and maintenance
  • Dishwasher-safe carafe and brew basket for faster daily cleaning

Things We Don’t Like

  • The top of the carafe can catch on the basket, resulting in a smashed carafe
  • Doesn’t feature a water level indicator
  • The heating plate on the bottom can corrode and fall off

Bonavita 5-Cup One-Touch Coffee Brewer

Though this 5-cup coffee brewer is a little pricier than other options, it might be one of the highest-quality options within this size range. That’s because it has an upgraded heating element that reaches the ideal coffee brewing temperature (about 200℉). 

The Bonavita One-Touch also uses a shower-head-like drip mechanism that soaks all your coffee grounds gently and effectively. This device is a great option when you want to brew a small-yet-flavorful pot of coffee. Still, the short power cord makes placing it a challenge.

But a huge plus for this coffee maker is its water reservoir. Not only is it easy to see how much water is stored in your device, but the reservoir is entirely transparent and comes with easy-to-read measurement lines. You’ll never accidentally brew on empty ever again.

Things We Like

  • Features a shower-drip design that ensures maximum flavor and taste from every brewed pot
  • Heats water to the perfect temperature for coffee brewing, helping you enjoy a higher-quality cup of joe
  • The basket is designed to sit comfortably at the top of the carafe, helping to reduce spills
  • It has a stainless steel exterior that matches many kitchens and appliances

Things We Don’t Like

  • Higher price point
  • The short power cord can be restrictive when placing coffee maker in tight spaces

AmazonBasics 5-Cup Coffee Maker

AmazonBasics produces a line of common household products that are accessible and affordable. This 5-cup coffee maker is an excellent example of a typical AmazonBasics product. It’s not flashy, but it does exactly what it promises to do: Brew up to five cups of joe.

Like many other 5-cup coffee makers, this machine operates via an on/off button. But unlike some other models, this button is placed at the front of the machine. This design helps reduce accidental operation, but the button is rather close to the warming plate.

Users may be able to sync this device to their Amazon Alexa and related devices, but only if they purchase additional smart plugs. Still, minimal smart device compatibility is better than no smart device compatibility. 

This device is incredibly affordable, but it can be problematic when placed beneath cabinets or in tight spaces. That’s because the basket is only accessible via a lift-up top and the drip brewing can continue after the carafe is removed. 

Things We Like

  • Compatible with smart plugs that allow the coffee maker to work with Amazon Alexa and related devices
  • An affordable option that won’t strain your household finances
  • The on/off switch is at the front of the machine, helping to reduce accidental button-pressing

Things We Don’t Like

  • Brewing sensors can malfunction, causing the basket to continue dripping coffee after the carafe is removed
  • The included reusable coffee filter often lets grounds pass through, resulting in a gritty cup of coffee

Things To Consider When Buying a Coffee Maker

There are several factors to consider when purchasing a coffee maker.
There are several factors to consider when purchasing a coffee maker.

Are you looking to purchase a new coffee maker? If so, you’ll want to ensure you’re choosing the best possible option for your needs. Of course, personal preference is just one of the many factors that can influence your final pick.

When choosing a new coffee maker, you’ll also want to consider:

  • Programmability
  • Smart Compatibility
  • Ease of Use
  • Cleaning and Maintenance
  • Price
  • Additional Features

Let’s review these influential factors in greater detail to discover why they’re crucial to the buying process. This way, you can be sure to select the best possible coffee maker for your home, kitchen, or workplace.

Programmability

If you’re purchasing a 5-cup coffee maker, you won’t need to stress about size. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t other aspects to consider, including programmability.

The simplest coffee makers operate via an on/off switch. But more advanced models may stay on at all hours due to an internal clock and automatic brewing feature. Essentially, you can set the time on your coffee maker then tell it what time you’d like it to start brewing in the morning.

Programmability is an excellent feature for those who would prefer to start their day with a fresh cup of coffee. Rather than waking up and waiting for your coffee to start brewing, you could wake up to a fresh pot that’s ready to go. 

Choosing a coffee maker that’s programmable is a convenient way to save time during the early morning rush. However, it’s not the only option. Many of the newest coffee makers are compatible with smart devices, including smartphones and tablets. 

Smart Compatibility

Some models of coffee makers now come equipped with smart technology.
Some models of coffee makers now come equipped with smart technology.

Smart devices are slowly taking hold of the home appliance market, and it might be time to jump on board. While there are still only a handful of smart coffee makers, several models are compatible with smart devices, including smart switches and plugs.

If your chosen coffee maker offers smart device compatibility, you may be able to operate it remotely by using your phone, tablet, computer, or voice. This allows you to set brewing schedules while also brewing whenever you’d like.

Imagine how convenient it would be to have your coffee maker start brewing a fresh pot when you’re on your way home from work or school. You could enjoy that convenience for yourself by choosing a smart-compatible coffee maker. 

Of course, these devices aren’t the simplest options. If you struggle with your current tech, it might be better to stick with a more straightforward coffee maker. After all, if you can’t figure out how to use your coffee maker, you won’t be able to enjoy it!

Ease of Use

Not every coffee maker is equally easy to operate. Those with on/off switch designs tend to be the simplest and easiest to use. But models that have switches, dials, and display screens can be a little more complicated and potentially confusing.

Before you invest in a new 5-cup coffee maker, you’ll want to consider your comfort level when working with new technologies. If you’re someone who prefers simpler devices, you might not want to choose the most advanced machine. 

Alternatively, if you enjoy setting up new devices and feel comfortable operating hi-tech appliances, a smart home compatible coffee maker could be a dream come true. Still, no matter which direction you lean toward, you’ll want your new coffee maker to be a cinch to use.

Cleaning and Maintenance

It is important to keep your coffeemaker clean.
It is important to keep your coffeemaker clean.

Keeping your coffee maker clean is crucial to its overall lifespan and quality. A dirtied coffee maker is bound to produce lackluster coffee and suffer from a variety of mechanical problems. But if your new machine is bulky or poorly designed, it might be tricky to clean your coffee maker.

Before you buy that new coffee maker, be sure to take a few moments to consider how easily you could clean it. If there are quite a few removable parts, it might be easier to keep your machine clean. But you might also be accidentally increasing your dish load.

Some machines, especially those with built-in grinders, can be particularly frustrating to keep clean. Of course, there are a handful of coffee makers that have a self-cleaning mode to keep clean-up simple and quick. Still, these self-cleaning machines can be a little pricier than others.

Price

Have you set a budget for your new coffee maker? If not, you might find yourself accidentally overspending. Fortunately, there are coffee makers available for nearly every price range.

Still, affordable 5-cup coffee makers tend to be simple machines. If you’re looking for programmability or smart device compatibility, you may need to rethink your coffee maker budget. Hi-tech models are almost always pricier than more straightforward options.

But a coffee maker that’s chock-full of useful features could be an ideal long-term investment. When you’re not purchasing disposable filters each week or waking up extra early to start brewing your coffee, you may find that your productivity soars. 

As such, it’s often worthwhile to consider a coffee maker’s additional features as well as its price. Though these beneficial add-ons might raise the price of your chosen machine, they could also help you get the most out of your new coffee maker.

Additional Features

Coffee makers can come with a wide variety of additional features.
Coffee makers can come with a wide variety of additional features.

Coffee makers can come with a wide variety of useful features and accessories. It’s crucial to consider these additional benefits when selecting your new machine.

For example, some coffee makers have backlit display screens that make it easy to read the time or select brew settings. Others have removable water reservoirs that make it easy to keep your machine stocked and ready.

Still, more may come with reusable filters, smart device compatibility, or self-cleaning modes. Overall, you’ll likely have quite a few additional features from which to choose. But picking from among these beneficial accessories and designs can be challenging.

To ensure you end up with the best 5-cup coffee maker, it’s essential to take the time to think about which features would be most beneficial for you. After all, if you’re someone who prefers simpler devices, smart device compatibility might not be a helpful feature.

And if you’d like to save a little money on long-term costs, an included reusable coffee filter could be a worthwhile reason to invest. Before you make a purchase, always take a few extra minutes to ask if your preferred model’s features are going to change your life for the better.

Cozy’s Bottom Line

Though we’ve presented several worthwhile coffee makers, there’s only one we’ve continued to use each day. And that’s the BLACK + DECKER 5-Cup Coffee Maker. 

In our opinion, this machine is the best 5-cup coffee maker available. Firstly, it’s a smartly designed device that helps eliminate accidental spills and drips. The carafe has a unique, almost beaker-like shape that has a protective high lip. 

Additionally, this coffee maker has an auto-pause feature that allows us to enjoy our coffee at any time during the brewing process. This feature has also helped prevent unwanted drips onto the warming plate, reducing post-brew clean-up and also saving our noses from the smell of burned coffee.  

Though it has a lift-up basket lid, which can be problematic for those with low cabinets, it also has a water reservoir window. We’ve never had to guess how much water to add to our coffee maker, which saves time each morning. Overall, it’s our favorite 5-cup coffee brewer.

Still, if you’re looking for a machine with a swing-out basket, the Hamilton Beach option may be the better pick. Always consider your preferred device’s programmability, ease of use, price, and features before making a final purchase.

For other great coffee options also check out our recommendations for the best Keurig brewers and Nespresso coffee makers.

Happy coffee drinking!

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