In the realm of coffee enthusiasts and busy households alike, the quest for the ideal brew is a daily ritual.
Enter the 12-cup coffee maker: a beacon of convenience and quality for those who appreciate the art of a good cup of coffee or need to cater to multiple coffee lovers at once.
Whether it’s the start of a bustling day or a cozy gathering among friends, a 12-cup coffee maker ensures that everyone enjoys their perfect cup with ease.
In this blog post, we dive into the best 12-cup coffee makers on the market, examining their features, durability, and how they stand up to the demands of the discerning coffee aficionado.
Best 12-Cup Coffee Makers: At A Glance
- Ninja CE201 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker: Best Overall
- Cuisinart DCC-1200P1 Brew Central: Runner-Up
- Mr. Coffee Coffee Maker with Auto Pause and Glass Carafe: Best For Budgets
- Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Brew Now or Later Coffee Maker: Best Value
- Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Yosemite 12-Cup Percolator: Best Percolator
- Hamilton Beach 47900 12-Cup Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart DCC-1100BKP1 12-cup Coffeemaker
- Braun KF7170SI BrewSense Drip Coffeemaker
- BLACK+DECKER CM2035B 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker
- BELLA 14755 12 Cups Programmable Coffee Maker
1. Ninja CE201 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker: Best Overall
The Ninja CE201 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker stands out as a stellar option for coffee enthusiasts seeking a blend of affordability, convenience, and quality.
Crafted from durable stainless steel and plastic, this drip coffee maker not only promises a generous 12-cup capacity but also ensures a delightful brewing experience with its user-friendly features.
Priced to offer great value, it consumes 1,000 watts of power to complete a brewing cycle within 12 to 15 minutes, offering users the choice between Classic and Rich brewing styles.
The Rich style, in particular, is celebrated for delivering a perfect balance of heat and flavor.
A notable innovation is its agitator, which circulates coffee throughout the brewing process, ensuring uniform temperature and taste from top to bottom and preventing the coffee from burning or cooling unevenly when left on the hot plate.
This machine is designed for simplicity and ease, featuring a removable water reservoir, a mid-brew pause button for safety, dishwasher-safe removable parts, and includes a permanent gold-tone filter and scoop.
Despite its many advantages, the Ninja CE201 is not without its downsides, including a dripping carafe spout, a lid that might challenge some users and less-than-ideal coffee filtering.
However, its pros significantly outweigh the cons, making it a highly recommended choice for those prioritizing simplicity, convenience, and the pleasure of serving quality brewed coffee to a group.
Pros
- Affordable with great value for money
- Large 12-cup capacity suitable for serving groups
- Offers Classic and Rich brewing styles for varied taste preferences
- The unique agitator circulates coffee to maintain even heat and flavor
- Removable water reservoir and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
- Includes useful accessories like a permanent gold-tone filter and scoop
- Features precise time programming for convenience
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Dripping carafe spout can cause messes
- Lid may be difficult to uncap for some users
- Subpar coffee filtering could affect taste quality
2. Cuisinart DCC-1200P1 Brew Central: Runner-Up
The Cuisinart Brew Central 12 Cup Programmable Coffeemaker marries elegance and functionality with its brushed metallic finish and tech-industrial design.
Designed to cater to the nuanced needs of coffee aficionados, it features a programmable heating plate that allows for precise temperature control, ensuring that each cup of coffee is brewed to perfection.
The ergonomic carafe is crafted for easy handling and drip-free pouring, thanks to its dripless spout, making mornings smoother and spill-free.
With a brewing temperature ranging between 195° to 205° F, it achieves optimal flavor extraction in under 10 minutes for a full carafe.
This coffeemaker stands out with its programmable auto on/off settings, 24-hour advance setup, and a Brew Pause feature, allowing users to enjoy a cup before the brewing cycle completes.
The inclusion of a charcoal water filter promises a purer taste, addressing the need for high-quality, great-tasting coffee.
Despite its many strengths, the Cuisinart DCC 1200 has faced some criticism regarding design quality and the smaller size of its water reservoir.
Additionally, its price point has been noted as steep by some users who question the clear added value.
Regular cleaning with a vinegar-water solution is recommended to maintain optimal performance and prevent calcium buildup.
Pros
- Enhanced taste due to the charcoal water filter
- Adjustable temperature on the carafe heating plate
- The Brew Pause feature allows for immediate cup serving
- Ergonomically designed carafe for easy and drip-free pouring
- Fast brewing time for quick and efficient coffee preparation
- Programmable settings for personalized coffee experience
Cons
- Mixed feedback on the overall design quality
- Smaller water reservoir compared to other models
- Higher price point without clear added value for some users
3. Mr. Coffee Coffee Maker with Auto Pause and Glass Carafe: Best For Budgets
This 12-cup Mr. Coffee Coffee maker epitomizes the essence of simplicity and affordability in the realm of coffee machines.
Catering to those who prioritize straightforward functionality over complex features, this coffee maker can brew up to 12 cups of coffee, accommodating the needs of larger households or gatherings.
One of its notable features is the auto-pause function, allowing users to pour a cup mid-brew without making a mess.
The design includes an easy-to-read water window and removable parts, ensuring that cleaning and maintenance are hassle-free.
Despite its practicality, the coffee maker’s construction from basic plastic might not appeal to all, as it can feel somewhat cheap and is more susceptible to damage over time.
Additionally, the absence of an automatic shut-off feature could be a drawback for some users.
It utilizes a wide, flat-bottom filter basket, compatible with #4 basket filters, and accommodates brewing volumes from 2 to 12 cups, requiring adjustments in coffee grounds and water measurements for optimal results.
While it lacks advanced features such as programmability, strength settings, and an evenly extracting showerhead, it remains a competitively priced option for those in search of a reliable, no-frills coffee maker.
Optional upgrades include a programmable model and a carbon-based water filtration system, enhancing its value proposition.
The sturdy glass carafe and dishwasher-safe filter basket further contribute to its appeal.
This coffee maker is an excellent choice for those seeking great value for money in a basic yet capable machine.
Pros
- Affordable and simple design.
- Brews up to 12 cups, suitable for larger needs.
- Auto-pause function for convenience.
- Easy-to-read water window and removable parts for easy cleaning.
- Competitive pricing for a reliable coffee maker.
- Optional upgrades are available for added functionality.
- Sturdy glass carafe and dishwasher-safe filter basket.
Cons
- Constructed from basic plastic, which may feel cheap and is prone to damage.
- Lacks an automatic shut-off feature.
- Absence of programmability, strength settings, and evenly extracting shower heads.
- Requires manual adjustments for different brewing volumes.
4. Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Brew Now or Later Coffee Maker: Best Value
The Mr. Coffee Brew Now Or Later is designed to simplify your coffee brewing experience, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen.
This coffeemaker comes with a “Brew Now or Later” feature, allowing you to set your coffee to brew ahead of time so you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee every morning.
The innovative Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause feature pauses the brewing process if you decide to pour a cup before the cycle is complete, ensuring you don’t have to wait to enjoy your coffee.
Additionally, it boasts an automatic shut-off function that activates after 4 hours, providing peace of mind and added safety.
The Lift and Clean Filter Basket adds convenience to maintenance, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
However, the coffeemaker is not without its drawbacks.
The decanter handle is notably weak and requires careful handling to prevent breakage and potential injury.
This issue points to a broader concern regarding the overall build quality; while the coffeemaker is affordable, its construction reflects the price point, suggesting a compromise on durability.
Additionally, the noise level during operation is higher than expected, which could be a nuisance for some users.
Pros
- Programmable “Brew Now or Later” feature for convenience.
- Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause allows for immediate coffee enjoyment without waiting for the brew cycle to finish.
- Automatic shut-off after 4 hours for safety and energy saving.
- Lift and Clean Filter Basket facilitates easy cleaning.
Cons
- Weak decanter handle that poses a risk of breakage and potential injury.
- The overall build quality reflects its affordability, indicating a compromise on durability.
- Noisier operation compared to other models, which could be disruptive.
5. Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Yosemite 12-Cup Percolator: Best Percolator
The Farberware 12-Cup Yosemite Stovetop Percolator brings the traditional charm of stovetop coffee brewing, promising a fuller, richer flavor that coffee aficionados might find appealing.
Crafted from heavy-duty stainless steel polished to a mirror finish, this percolator not only offers durability but also adds a classic touch to any kitchen setting.
Its design includes a comfortable handle for a confident and balanced grip, whether you’re brewing or pouring.
One of the standout features is its permanent filter basket, eliminating the need for messy paper filters, while the non-reactive interior ensures that water doesn’t absorb any unwanted odors or tastes.
Fully immersible and dishwasher-safe, this percolator combines Farberware’s longstanding quality with modern convenience.
However, the percolator is not without its challenges.
Critics point out its complexity and the tendency to produce inconsistent coffee flavors.
With six components to assemble—main pot, percolator stem, small spring, filter basket and cover, and a lid with a glass knob—the brewing process can be intricate.
Watching the water bubble into the glass knob to time the percolation accurately requires attention, as a misstep can result in overly bitter coffee.
Ultimately, while the Farberware Yosemite percolator has its advantages in capacity and cost, other coffee makers may offer better overall value in terms of flavor and user-friendliness.
Pros
- Fuller, richer coffee flavor through stovetop brewing.
- Durable stainless steel construction with a classic design.
- A comfortable handle provides a balanced grip.
- A permanent filter basket eliminates the need for paper filters.
- Dishwasher-safe and fully immersible for easy cleaning.
Cons
- Overly complicated to use with six components to assemble.
- Produces inconsistent coffee flavors.
- Requires close monitoring during brewing to avoid overly bitter coffee.
6. Hamilton Beach 47900 12-Cup Coffee Maker
The Hamilton Beach BrewStation revolutionizes the morning coffee routine by addressing a common frustration: coffee that loses its fresh flavor when left on a hot plate.
This innovative coffee maker stands out by brewing directly into an internal tank, rather than a traditional carafe, ensuring that your coffee remains hot and tastes fresh for up to four hours.
This feature alone makes it a standout choice for those who like to enjoy their coffee throughout the morning without the degradation of quality.
The internal heater maintains the perfect temperature, eliminating the need for a hot plate and, consequently, the risk of burnt-tasting coffee.
The absence of a glass carafe means there’s nothing fragile to break, adding a level of durability and ease of use with its one-handed dispensing bar.
The BrewStation is designed with customization in mind, offering brewing options like bold, regular, and small batches, as well as iced coffee, catering to all preferences.
The removable water tank and internal tank and brew basket make filling and cleaning effortless.
The adjustable keep-hot function, which can be set from 0-4 hours, along with the programmable 24-hour advance setup, ensures that your coffee is ready when you are, exactly how you like it.
However, the BrewStation is not without its drawbacks.
The overall durability is somewhat disappointing, with some users finding the construction to feel cheap.
Additionally, this coffee maker is noted for being particularly noisy during operation, which could be a nuisance for some users.
Pros
- Keeps coffee tasting fresh for up to four hours with an internal brewing tank.
- Eliminates the need for a fragile carafe, reducing the risk of breakage.
- Offers customizable brewing options (bold, regular, small batches, iced coffee).
- Features a removable water tank and brew basket for easy filling and cleaning.
- Programmable 24 hours in advance with a keep-hot function adjustable up to 4 hours.
Cons
- Durability concerns with some parts feeling cheaply made.
- Notably noisy during operation, which may be disruptive.
7. Cuisinart DCC-1100BKP1 12-cup Coffeemaker
The Cuisinart 12 Cup Programmable Coffeemaker combines elegance with functionality, featuring a sleek design accented with stainless steel that promises to be a standout on any kitchen countertop.
This coffeemaker is equipped with an array of convenient features, including brewpause, 24-hour programmability, self-cleaning, and the ability to brew 1-4 cups without compromising on flavor.
The 12-cup carafe is designed with an ergonomic handle, dripless spout, and knuckle guard for comfortable and clean pouring.
Fully automatic functionalities such as 24-hour programmability, self-clean, automatic shut-off, and settings for brewing smaller quantities make this machine highly versatile and user-friendly.
Additionally, the Brew Pause feature allows you to enjoy a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete, and a 60-second reset function remembers where the brewing process was interrupted and the settings that were in use.
Despite its strengths, the Cuisinart Coffeemaker has its drawbacks.
The carafe is prone to leakiness, which can lead to inconvenient clean-ups of dribbles on the side of your mug or the countertop.
Another notable limitation is the absence of a clear water measurement system, making it challenging to gauge the correct amount of water needed for brewing, thereby affecting the convenience and ease of use.
However, it includes Cuisinart’s effective charcoal water filter, ensuring the taste of your coffee is preserved and free from impurities.
Pros
- Sleek design with stainless steel accents.
- Brew Pause and 24-hour programmability for convenience.
- Ability to brew 1-4 cups without losing flavor.
- Ergonomic carafe design for easy pouring.
- Includes a charcoal water filter for pure coffee taste.
- Self-cleaning and automatic shut-off features for safety and maintenance.
Cons
- The carafe is prone to leaking, requiring extra clean-up.
- Lacks a clear water-measurement system, complicating the filling process.
8. Braun KF7170SI BrewSense Drip Coffeemaker
The Braun KF7170SI BrewSense Drip Coffeemaker has an exquisite symmetrical design framed in stainless steel, making it a standout among 12-cup coffee makers purely based on aesthetics.
Beyond its good looks, this model is celebrated for its user-friendly programming and a 24-hour clock, ensuring you set the brewing process for the exact time desired.
It caters to diverse coffee preferences with options for bold and regular brews within its 12-cup capacity.
Priced affordably, it also comes with the reassurance of a generous 3-year warranty.
The airtight carafe lid seals in the flavor, while superior water quality is guaranteed through the inclusion of a gold-tone permanent coffee filter and a charcoal water filter.
Its programmability and automatic shutoff feature after 5 hours of idle time enhances safety and convenience.
Additionally, the reusable and dishwasher-safe filter not only simplifies maintenance but also offers savings.
However, the Braun KF7170SI does not come without its shortcomings.
Criticisms include subpar brew temperatures and a relatively slow brewing time, which might not meet the expectations of those prioritizing speed and piping hot coffee.
Access to the water reservoir is also hampered by the design that accommodates the charcoal filtration device, posing a minor inconvenience during refills.
Despite these drawbacks, the Braun BrewSense KF7170SI is an attractive option for those who value a blend of aesthetics and functionality, offering ease of use and a comprehensive set of features.
Pros
- Elegant stainless steel design.
- Easy to program with a 24-hour clock.
- Offers both bold and regular brew types.
- Affordable with a 3-year warranty.
- Airtight carafe lid and superior water filtration.
- Programmable with automatic shutoff.
- Comes with a reusable, dishwasher-safe filter.
Cons
- Subpar brew temperature.
- Relatively slow brew time.
- Difficult access to the water reservoir.
9. BLACK+DECKER CM2035B 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker stands out for its insulated thermal carafe, designed to keep coffee warm for extended periods, making it an ideal choice for households with multiple coffee drinkers or frequent entertainers.
This coffee maker is equipped with advanced features like the Sneak-a-Cup option, allowing you to pour a cup mid-brew, a brew strength selector for personalized coffee potency, and an intuitive user interface that simplifies the brewing process.
Priced affordably at around $69.99, with potential discounts bringing it closer to $50, it offers significant value.
The machine boasts 24-hour programmability, auto shutoff, and a specialized option for brewing 1 to 4 cups, ensuring a balanced flavor even in smaller quantities.
The showerhead-style water dispensing system guarantees even saturation of coffee grounds for a well-balanced taste.
However, it’s not without its limitations.
The absence of a permanent filter means users will need to purchase disposable basket-shaped paper filters, adding to the ongoing cost and effort.
The water reservoir’s fixed position can also make refills a bit cumbersome.
While the double-walled, vacuum-sealed carafe is effective in keeping coffee hot for up to 7 hours, the coffee maker’s reliance on lightweight plastic components might raise concerns regarding its long-term durability.
Pros
- The insulated thermal carafe keeps coffee warm for up to 7 hours.
- Features Sneak-a-Cup, brew strength selector, and intuitive user interface.
- Budget-friendly with a price often around $50.
- 24-hour programmability, auto shutoff, and 1 to 4 cups brewing option.
- Showerhead-style system for even coffee saturation.
Cons
- Requires disposable paper filters due to no permanent filter.
- A non-detachable water reservoir complicates filling.
- Constructed with lightweight plastic, potentially affecting durability.
10. BELLA 14755 12 Cups Programmable Coffee Maker
The BELLA 14755 Programmable Coffee Maker stands as a testament to modern coffee brewing technology, offering a plethora of features designed to enhance your coffee experience.
With a brew strength selector, this machine gives you control over the intensity of your coffee, whether you’re filling the full 12-cup carafe or just making a single to 4 cups for more personal enjoyment.
The inclusion of an easy-to-read LCD ensures that brewing is straightforward at any time of the day, while a special cleaning cycle maintains the coffee’s optimal flavor.
This coffee maker prides itself on delivering rich and delicious coffee with exceptional speed, all within a compact, space-saving design that boasts user-friendly controls and easy-to-clean components.
Programmability is a key feature, allowing you to set your coffee to brew up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you wake up to or come home to the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
The stylish stainless steel design not only complements any kitchen decor but also brings a touch of sophistication to your countertop, with the added environmental benefit of a reusable filter basket and measuring scoop, promoting zero waste.
However, the BELLA 14755 is not without its flaws.
The brew pause function is notably unreliable, often failing to work correctly, and when it does, it tends to dribble coffee down the side of the carafe.
Additionally, the carafe’s poorly designed pour spout leads to dribbling or splattering coffee, creating a mess around your mug.
While the coffee it brews is pretty good quality, the inconvenience of cleaning up after each use may deter most users.
Pros
- Brew strength selector for personalized coffee intensity.
- Easy-to-read LCD and special cleaning cycle.
- Fast brewing speed with a compact, space-saving design.
- Fully automatic and programmable up to 24 hours in advance.
- Stylish stainless steel design with reusable filter basket.
Cons
- An unreliable brew-pause function that often fails or causes spills.
- Poorly designed carafe spout leading to dribbling and splattering.
- Necessitates frequent cleaning due to mess after brewing.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best 12-Cup Coffee Maker
When in the market for the best 12-cup coffee maker, several key factors come into play to ensure you find a model that not only meets your daily caffeine needs but also complements your lifestyle and kitchen aesthetics.
From brewing capabilities to ease of maintenance, this buyer’s guide will help you navigate through the essential aspects to consider.
Brewing Features
- Brew Strength Control: Look for coffee makers that offer brew strength options, such as bold, regular, or mild. This feature allows you to customize the flavor intensity according to your preference, making it ideal for households with varying tastes.
- Programmability: A programmable coffee maker can be a game-changer for your morning routine. Models that allow you to set the brewing time up to 24 hours in advance ensure that you wake up or come home to a freshly brewed pot.
- Brew Pause: This function lets you pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is completed without making a mess, providing convenience for those who can’t wait for their first sip.
Carafe Type
Glass carafes are common and usually sit on a hot plate to keep coffee warm, but they can lead to a burnt taste over time.
Thermal carafes, on the other hand, are better insulated and can keep coffee hot for hours without altering its flavor.
Decide based on your taste preference and how long you typically need your coffee to stay warm.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
- User Interface: A clear and intuitive user interface with an easy-to-read display can simplify your brewing process, especially when programming your coffee maker.
- Cleaning Cycle: Models with a self-cleaning feature or a dedicated cleaning cycle can save you time and ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your coffee maker.
- Water Reservoir: Consider whether the water reservoir is detachable for easy filling and cleaning. A fixed reservoir can be cumbersome to refill and maintain.
- Filter Type: Decide between reusable and paper filters. Reusable filters are eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run, but they require regular cleaning. Paper filters are convenient but add to the ongoing cost and waste.
Durability and Build Quality
The construction material, whether plastic or stainless steel, affects the coffee maker’s durability and aesthetic appeal.
Stainless steel models tend to be more robust and blend well with modern kitchen appliances.
Safety Features
For peace of mind, opt for a coffee maker with an automatic shut-off feature.
This function turns the machine off after a specific period of inactivity, preventing potential hazards and saving energy.
Additional Features
- Water Filtration System: Some coffee makers include a built-in water filtration system, like a charcoal filter, which can improve the taste of your coffee by removing impurities from the water.
- Specialty Brewing Options: If you enjoy different types of coffee, such as iced coffee or small batches, look for models that offer these specific brewing options.
Price and Warranty
- Cost vs. Value: Evaluate the price in relation to the coffee maker’s features, durability, and warranty. A higher price might be justified by a longer warranty period, superior build quality, and advanced features that match your needs.
- Warranty: A longer warranty period can offer reassurance about the product’s quality and the manufacturer’s support.
How Many Coffee Grounds For A 12-Cup Coffee Maker?
For brewing coffee in a 12-cup drip coffee maker, you’ll need roughly 108 grams or around 18 tablespoons of coffee grounds.
This recommendation stems from the standard guideline suggesting the use of 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water.
However, individual tastes for coffee strength vary, and you might prefer to experiment with ratios like 1:15 for a bolder taste or 1:18 for a milder brew.
For the best consistency in your coffee’s strength and flavor, employing a digital scale to measure the coffee grounds is advisable.
Feel free to adjust the quantity of coffee grounds to suit your personal preference for how strong or light you enjoy your coffee.
The Verdict: What Is The Best 12-Cup Coffee Maker?
After careful consideration, we’ve chosen the Ninja CE201 as the best 12-cup coffee maker for its outstanding blend of features, affordability, and user-friendly design.
Its ability to brew rich and flavorful coffee, coupled with the innovative agitator that ensures consistent temperature and taste, sets it apart.
The addition of a removable water reservoir and dishwasher-safe parts further emphasizes convenience and ease of use, making it a standout choice.
The Cuisinart DCC-1200P1 Brew Central takes the runner-up spot.
It impresses with its classic design, robust brewing options, and the inclusion of a charcoal water filter for purer tasting coffee.
Both models excel in their respective areas, but the Ninja CE201 narrowly edges out for its comprehensive features that cater to a wide range of coffee aficionados’ needs.
