The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Combination Coffee Maker: Unveiling the Top Picks and Features to Look Out For

If you're a coffee lover who enjoys the convenience of brewing different types of coffee in one machine, then a combination coffee maker is a must-have for your kitchen. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is the best? In this article, we have carefully researched and compiled a list of the top dual coffee makers available, taking into consideration factors such as performance, versatility, and value for money. From the innovative Hamilton Beach FlexBrew to the classic Cuisinart Coffee Center, we have rounded up the best of the best to help you make an informed decision. So, if you're ready to elevate your coffee game, keep reading to find your perfect match!

Our Top Pick: Hamilton Beach FlexBrew

• Carafe: Glass
• Capacity: 12 cups
• Dimensions: 13.7 x 11.4 x 12.2 inches

At the forefront of our selection of the best dual-brew coffee makers is the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew. Hamilton Beach is known for producing affordable coffee machines that don't compromise on coffee quality. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, keep reading.

The FlexBrew has two sides, allowing you to make a whole pot of coffee or enjoy the convenience of K-Cup pods. The glass carafe has a generous 12-cup capacity, making it suitable for families and guests. Each side has a separate water reservoir, increasing capacity and making operation more efficient. The transparent water tanks are easy to fill without any spills. Additionally, the FlexBrew can be programmed to have fresh coffee waiting for you in the morning or when you return home.

Although there have been some complaints about build quality affecting the machine's lifespan, the majority of users are satisfied with their experience. Furthermore, the FlexBrew is one of the most affordable 2-way coffee machines available.

• Can use grounds or K-Cup pods
• Programmable timer
• Independent water tanks

• Some complaints about lifespan

What is a Dual Coffee Maker?

A dual coffee maker is a single appliance that can brew two different types of coffee. Typically, one side of the machine brews standard drip coffee, while the other side is for espresso. Some models even allow you to brew both types simultaneously, providing flexibility and convenience.

Why Buy a Dual Coffee Maker?

Dual coffee machines, also known as two-way coffee makers, are perfect for households with varying brewing needs. They can brew both full carafes and single servings, catering to different preferences. This type of brewer is particularly useful if you have an early riser who doesn't want to make a whole carafe that will go to waste. Additionally, a dual coffee maker is a practical solution if you typically brew for one but occasionally have guests. By investing in a dual coffee brewer, you can simplify your brewing process and reduce the number of appliances you need.

How We Selected the Best Dual Coffee Makers

We conducted research on models from top coffee maker brands and prioritized those with high customer satisfaction. Our selection process considered factors such as brew capacity, functionality, and special features. All the coffee makers on our list come with a carafe and can brew a maximum of 10 or 12 cups of coffee. Most of our top picks offer multiple brew strengths, and some have added features like a built-in milk frother, compatibility with K-Cups or pods, and durable stainless steel components. Certain models also come with a charcoal filter for enhanced flavor, programmability, brew pausing, and auto shut-off.

Keurig K-Duo Coffee Maker

• Carafe: Glass
• Capacity: 12 cups
• Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 16 inches

Keurig is a dominant player in the single-serve coffee market, and their K-Duo model offers more than just pod-based coffee. The left-hand side of the K-Duo features a 12-cup glass carafe with a heating plate to keep your coffee hot. The carafe allows you to brew 6, 8, 10, or 12 cups depending on your needs, and the 60oz water tank minimizes the need for refilling. The water reservoir is removable for easy cleaning and refilling.

If you choose to use the carafe, you'll need to purchase the proprietary gold tone mesh filter separately. However, if you prefer quick delivery, you can use the other side of the machine for single-serve brewing. Just like other Keurig machines, the K-Duo is compatible with a wide range of K-Cup pods from various brands.

The K-Duo offers a bold setting, allowing you to make your coffee even more intense at the touch of a button. However, some users have reported difficulties in brewing a full pot with this machine.

• Mid-brew pause feature
• Multiple brew sizes
• Long power cord

• Struggles to brew a full pot

How to Choose the Best Combination Coffee Maker

When selecting the best combination coffee maker, consider the following factors:

What Type of Dual Coffee Brewer Do You Want?

A dual coffee maker can brew two types of coffee or different quantities. Some models can brew large pots of coffee and single servings, while others can brew carafes of filter coffee and espresso. Some even come with a hot water dispenser for tea or instant coffee. Consider your coffee preferences and how you typically adjust your brew when choosing the type of dual coffee maker to purchase.

Do You Prefer K-Cups or Ground Coffee?

Some dual coffee makers use ground coffee for both brewing methods, while others require K-Cups. While coffee capsules are convenient, they can be expensive and have environmental implications. We recommend using a reusable Keurig or pod filter instead of single-use capsules to enjoy fresh grounds and a more eco-friendly cup of coffee.

Is Customization Important to You?

If you prefer the convenience of pressing a button and having your usual cup of coffee without much effort, a coffee maker with fewer customizable options may be suitable. However, if you enjoy tailoring your coffee strength or programming the machine for frothy drinks, there are models available that can meet your needs. Make sure to understand the features of each machine before making a purchase.

Thermal vs Glass Carafe

For optimal performance, we recommend choosing a coffee maker with a thermal carafe. Stainless steel carafes are durable and keep your coffee hot for longer without over-extraction or wasting electricity. However, if keeping your coffee hot is not a concern, a glass carafe is a more economical option. Some coffee makers on our list offer both options, allowing you to choose based on your preferences.

Consider Available Space

Although combination coffee makers save counter space by performing multiple functions, some models can be bulky. Before purchasing, check the dimensions of the machine to ensure it fits well in your desired location.

Our Top Picks

In this section, we present our top picks for the best dual coffee maker. These recommendations take into account the important features that should be considered when shopping for a dual coffee maker, such as overall quality and value. Read on to discover the top-rated options across various categories, ensuring you can enjoy delicious coffee every time.

Image: Amazon.com

Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker

Ninja's specialty coffee maker stands out as one of the most versatile products on the market. It offers the ability to brew not only a full glass carafe of drip coffee, but also iced coffee and concentrated espresso-style drinks. With a built-in milk frother, users can heat milk and create silky foam for lattes, cappuccinos, and more. The brew strength control feature allows for choosing between three settings: classic brew, rich brew, and super-rich brew. Additionally, the machine offers six brew sizes to cater to different quantities: single cup, XL single cup, travel mug, XL travel mug, half carafe, and full 10-cup carafe. The removable water reservoir makes filling easy, and the permanent filter helps reduce waste.

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 12 by 8.75 by 15 inches
• Brew Capacity: 10 cups
• Carafe Included: Yes

Pros

• Highly versatile; offering 6 different brew sizes with 3 brew strength settings
• Permanent filter is easy to clean and saves on replacement costs
• Built-in foldaway frother; great for lattes and cappuccinos

Cons

• Water reservoir can be difficult to clean in certain spots
• Limited stay warm features; not ideal for keeping coffee hot for several hours

Get the Ninja Specialty dual coffee maker at Amazon, Ninja Kitchen, Best Buy, Sam's Club, The Home Depot, or Overstock.

Image: Amazon.com

Braun MultiServe Coffee Machine

The Braun MultiServe Coffee Machine offers the convenience of pod-free single servings or full carafes of coffee at the perfect temperature, thanks to its TempSensor System. The carafe brews in just 8 minutes without compromising the taste. This machine also features a hot water dispenser for quickly preparing tea without waiting for a kettle to boil.

The Brew Choice Plus feature allows users to select from four settings: light, bold, gold, and over ice. With seven brew sizes available (ranging from 5-ounce to a full carafe), users can customize the quantity of coffee to suit their needs. The charcoal water filter ensures the best flavor, while the permanent filter helps reduce waste.

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 13 by 7.1 by 15 inches
• Brew Capacity: 10 cups
• Carafe Included: Yes

Pros

• Boasts SCA Golden Cup certification
• 7 brew sizes are easy to choose from with a simple knob function
• Includes a charcoal filter to help enhance flavor

Cons

• Some users find it unintuitive to use out of the box

Get the Braun dual coffee maker on Amazon.

Image: Amazon.com

Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker

The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker offers both a 12-cup carafe of coffee and single servings, all at an affordable price. The single-serve function can brew up to 14 ounces of coffee using grounds instead of pods, allowing users to choose their favorite coffee. This coffee maker features a 24-hour timer, auto shutoff, and brew pausing, providing convenience for busy mornings. The brew strength selector allows users to choose between regular and bold flavors.

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 10.63 by 12.2 by 13.7 inches
• Brew Capacity: 12 cups
• Carafe Included: Yes

Pros

• More budget-friendly price point compared to similar options
• 24-hour timer; great for early mornings
• Settings are intuitive and easy to use

Cons

• Some users report abnormally long brewing times

Get the Hamilton Beach 2-Way coffee maker on Amazon or at Best Buy.

Image: Amazon.com

Cuisinart SS-20P1 Coffee Center

The Cuisinart SS-20P1 Coffee Center offers the versatility of brewing a full carafe or a variety of single-cup sizes. On one side, it features a 10-cup thermal carafe that keeps coffee warm for hours without compromising the flavor. The carafe is accompanied by a gold-tone permanent filter and a charcoal water filter that effectively removes chlorine and minerals.

The single-serving side produces 6-ounce, 8-ounce, and 10-ounce cups. While the coffee maker uses disposable pods, it also includes a reusable filter cup to fill with ground coffee. The 24-hour programmability and brew pausing feature provide added convenience, while the brew strength control allows users to choose between a bold and regular brew.

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 10.75 by 12.75 by 16.5 inches
• Brew Capacity: 10 cups
• Carafe Included: Yes

Pros

• Superb versatility; also works with pod coffee
• Attractive modern design looks great on a kitchen counter
• Charcoal filter enhances flavor
• Includes advanced features like 24-hour programmability and pause brewing

Cons

• Pricey compared to similar options

Get the Cuisinart Coffee Center on Amazon or at Bed Bath & Beyond.

Image: Amazon.com

Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio Coffee Maker

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio Coffee Maker provides the option of brewing a full carafe of coffee or single servings using either pods or coffee grounds. The single-serving side dispenses coffee into a mug or travel cup and is compatible with standard coffee pods. It also includes a reusable filter basket for ground coffee.

On the other side, the 12-cup glass carafe stays warm for 2 hours after the brew cycle is complete and shuts off automatically to conserve energy. The coffee maker is pre-programmable, allowing users to wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee. It offers regular and bold brewing options and a pause-and-serve function for added versatility.

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 11.4 by 12.2 by 13.7 inches
• Brew Capacity: 12 cups
• Carafe Included: Yes

Pros

• Works with regular pods, the included reusable pod, or regular filter coffee
• Pre-programmable with an attractive display and easy-to-use settings
• Compact design; great for smaller spaces

Cons

• Plastic components offer less durability

Get the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew dual coffee maker at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Target.

Cuisinart Coffee Center

• Carafe: Thermal
• Capacity: 10-cup
• Dimensions: 10.75 x 12.75 x 16.5 inches

The Cuisinart Coffee Center is a compact and space-saving 2-way coffee maker that adds an elegant touch to any kitchen counter without taking up too much space.

This coffee maker is built with solid construction despite having a significant amount of plastic. It is designed to be lightweight and slim, making it ideal for kitchens with limited space, small apartments, or dorm rooms. It is worth noting that all plastic components are made of BPA-free materials, ensuring that they are safe to use and pose no health risks.

On the left side of the machine, you will find a thermal carafe that keeps your brewed coffee hot for a longer period of time. This carafe has a generous capacity of 10 cups, making it suitable for larger families or gatherings.

The left side of the machine is fully programmable, allowing you to set the desired brewing time and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee as soon as you need it. It also features an auto shut-off function for added safety and convenience. If you're in a rush and can't wait for the full brewing cycle to finish, simply press the brew pause button to pour yourself a cup of coffee without any mess.

On the right side of the Cuisinart Coffee Center, you have the option to enjoy single-serve coffee using any K-Cup pod. This feature provides convenient and quick access to gourmet coffee with just a push of a button, taking less than a minute to prepare.

Additionally, this coffee maker comes with a removable drip tray, which is useful when filling taller travel mugs for your morning commute.

While there have been some reports about reliability issues, the Cuisinart Coffee Center remains a worthy contender for those seeking a 2-way coffee machine.

• Compact design that saves space
• Multiple K-cup sizes
• Ability to brew bold coffee on demand

• Some users have reported reliability issues

Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker

• Carafe: Thermal
• Capacity: 50oz
• Dimensions: 12 x 8.75 x 15 inches

Ninja, known for their exceptional vacuums, also offers a surprisingly great coffee maker with the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker.

One of the key selling points of this coffee maker is its versatility. It allows you to brew an intensely rich and concentrated coffee that can be used as a base for longer and creamier beverages. Additionally, you can enjoy a classic or rich drip coffee when you desire a regular coffee experience. The machine also includes a setting for brewing iced coffee without diluting the flavor.

The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker comes with a choice of a thermal or glass carafe. The thermal carafe, made of stainless steel, is not only durable but also keeps your coffee warm for hours, ensuring you can savor every sip.

While the design of this coffee maker has a noticeable amount of plastic, it is worth considering the functionality and features it offers rather than purely judging it by its appearance. However, the overall build quality may feel slightly flimsy.

Using freshly ground coffee instead of pods or capsules, this coffee maker offers a cost-effective solution for brewing coffee at home while still producing gourmet-quality results with the convenience of push-button operation.

• Ability to make a wide variety of drinks
• Use of freshly ground coffee beans
• Produces great iced coffee concentrate

What Features You Should Look Out for When Buying Dual Coffee Maker

When purchasing a dual coffee maker, there are several factors to consider.

One of the most important considerations is the amount of coffee you want to brew at once. If you often cater to a large group, it is recommended to choose a model with a larger capacity.

Additionally, consider the brew type that suits your preferences. Some dual coffee makers allow you to brew two different types of coffee simultaneously, while others allow you to brew a single type of coffee multiple times. Some machines also come with built-in grinders, while others require manual grinding before brewing.

Price and warranty are also important factors to consider when buying a dual coffee maker. Ensure that the price aligns with the features and quality of the machine, and check the warranty to ensure you are protected in case of any defects or malfunctions.

Glass Vs. Thermal Carafe

The debate between glass and thermal carafes has been ongoing for some time. Some individuals believe that glass carafes keep coffee warmer for longer, while others argue that thermal carafes retain the flavor better. Ultimately, the choice between glass and thermal carafes depends on personal preference. If you prefer your coffee to stay hot and fresh for an extended period, a thermal carafe is recommended. However, if you enjoy having your coffee warm for a bit longer, a glass carafe might be the better choice.

Safety

Safety is a crucial aspect to consider when purchasing any kitchen appliance, including coffee makers. In the case of coffee makers, safety features include a charcoal water filter and a failure indicator light. A charcoal water filter helps remove impurities from the water before it reaches your coffee, ensuring a better taste. The failure indicator light alerts you when there is an issue with the machine that needs attention. These safety features can save you time and money in the long run.

Dual

Aside from providing hot beverages for larger groups, some dual coffee makers allow you to brew different types of coffee simultaneously or in sequential order. This feature is particularly useful when catering to individuals with different coffee preferences. It also eliminates the need to brew multiple pots of coffee, saving you time, especially during busy mornings.

Size and Capacity

Size and capacity are important factors to consider when searching for a dual coffee maker. Some machines have smaller capacities, which may not be sufficient for larger groups. On the other hand, some machines are bulky and occupy a significant amount of counter space. Finding a machine with the right balance of size and capacity is essential for a seamless coffee brewing experience.

Coffee Variety

If you enjoy a wide variety of coffee drinks, it is recommended to choose a dual coffee maker with multiple settings or brew types. Additionally, some machines come with milk frothers and other accessories that allow you to customize your coffee beverages according to your preferences.

Warranty

Considering the potentially higher cost of dual coffee makers, warranty coverage is an important aspect to review. Make sure to read the warranty carefully to understand what damages or defects are covered under normal wear and tear. This ensures that any repairs or replacements needed will be covered without additional costs.

List Of 9 Best Dual Coffee Maker Reviews

1. Keurig K-Duo Coffee Maker, Single Serve and 12-Cup Carafe Drip Coffee Brewer

• The Keurig K-Duo coffee maker offers both single-serve and 12-cup carafe brewing options, making it suitable for any coffee lover. With multiple brew sizes available, you can always enjoy a perfect cup of coffee. Additionally, this machine is compatible with the Keurig gold-tone mesh filter accessory, allowing you to make a delicious carafe of coffee using ground beans.
• The included glass carafe features a built-in heating plate to keep your coffee hot, and with multiple brew sizes and the ability to use ground coffee or K-Cup pods, you can customize your coffee experience to suit your preferences.
• The Keurig K-Duo coffee maker combines the convenience of a single-serve brewer with the flexibility of a carafe. With its large 60-ounce water reservoir, you can brew up to 12 cups at once. The programmable carafe auto-brew feature allows you to set it and forget it, ensuring that your coffee is ready when you are. Additionally, the Strong Brew setting lets you brew a more intense cup of coffee for those mornings when you need an extra boost.

2. CucinaPro Double Coffee Brewer Station – Dual Coffee Maker Brews two 12-cup Pots

• The CucinaPro Double Coffee Brewer Station is capable of brewing two 12-cup pots of coffee simultaneously, making it perfect for large celebrations and gatherings. The individual heating elements allow for precise brewing control, and the water window and level marks make it easy to measure the required amount of water for each pot. The spring-out coffee filter basket simplifies the refilling and cleaning process.
• This professional-grade coffee maker allows you to brew two pots of coffee at once. The dual heating elements can be controlled independently, making it ideal for large events and gatherings. The spring-out coffee filter basket is easy to refill and clean.

3. Keurig K-Duo Essentials Coffee Maker, with Single Serve K-Cup Pod and 12 Cup Carafe Brewer

• The Keurig K-Duo Essentials Coffee Maker offers the convenience of both single-serve brewing with K-Cup pods and carafe brewing using ground coffee. You can easily switch between the two brewing options to suit your preferences. The sleek design of this coffee maker makes it a stylish addition to any kitchen counter.
• The Keurig K-Duo Essentials Coffee Maker allows you to enjoy the benefits of both single-serve and carafe brewing. Whether you want a quick cup of coffee with a K-Cup pod or need to make a pot for guests, this versatile brewer has got you covered. The large 60-ounce water reservoir ensures that you can brew up to 12 cups at once, and the programmable carafe auto-brew feature allows you to set your desired brewing time.

4. Hamilton Beach 49976 FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Single Serve Coffee Maker & Full 12c Pot

• The Hamilton Beach 49976 FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Single Serve Coffee Maker is designed for those who want the best of both worlds. It allows you to brew a full 12-cup pot of coffee or a single cup using your favorite K-Cup pod or ground coffee. This versatile machine even lets you brew directly into a tall travel mug, making your morning commute a breeze. The removable cup rest provides plenty of space for larger cups and mugs, and the dishwasher-safe parts ensure easy cleanup.
• This programmable coffee maker features Easy-Touch programming for wake-up ready coffee. After brewing, the coffee stays warm for 2 hours before the power automatically shuts off. The Auto Pause & Pour function enables you to pour a cup of coffee while the brewing process is still ongoing.
• With the Select-a-Brew option, you can control the strength of your coffee, choosing between regular and bold brewing settings. Each brewing side of this Hamilton Beach coffee maker has its own water reservoir, making it easy to fill and allowing you to see the water level through the water window, ensuring you have the right amount of water for single-serve or full-pot brewing.

5. Kitchen Selectives Drip Coffee Maker

• Wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee with the Kitchen Selectives Drip Coffee Maker. This dual drip coffee maker allows you to brew both regular and decaf coffee at the same time, thanks to the two 12-cup carafes. The illuminated switches make it easy to operate each side independently, and the pause and serve feature lets you pour a cup while the coffee is still brewing. The 2-hour automatic shut-off ensures that your coffee stays hot and fresh for hours. The removable filter baskets simplify the cleaning process, and the 1-year warranty provides peace of mind.
• The Kitchen Selectives Drip Coffee Maker lets you simultaneously brew two different pots of coffee. Whether you prefer regular coffee or decaf, this coffee maker has you covered. The illuminated switches allow you to operate each side independently, while the pause and serve feature permits you to pour a cup of coffee while the brewing process is ongoing. Cleaning is a breeze with the removable filter baskets.

6. Espressione Stainless Steel Machine Espresso and Coffee Maker

• The Espressione Stainless Steel Machine allows you to make your favorite espresso, brew coffee, or prepare lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based beverages. This combination unit can use ground coffee or easy serving espresso (E.S.E.) pods. Its powerful 19-bar ULKA pump from Italy operates at 1250 Watts, ensuring optimal performance and delicious results.
• The pre-brewing function enhances the flavor of your coffee, espressos, and cappuccinos, while the electronic temperature control with one selector knob, four buttons, and two blue LED lamps provides precise brewing control. The 1.5-liter transparent water tank includes electronic level detection to prevent brewing if the tank is empty, ensuring you never run out of coffee.
• The pre-brewing function extracts more flavor from each coffee bean, while the electronic temperature control ensures that every drink is brewed to perfection. The thermoblock heater facilitates fast heat-up times, allowing you to enjoy your coffee sooner.

7. Singles Serve Coffee Makers For K Cup Pod & Coffee Ground

• This convenient coffee maker is compatible with both K-Cup pods and ground coffee. It allows you to enjoy your coffee just the way you like it. With a 30 oz water tank, you'll have plenty of capacity for brewing multiple cups, and the removable drip tray ensures easy cleanup. Additionally, the sleek design makes this coffee maker a stylish addition to any kitchen.
• These versatile machines are designed to be user-friendly, providing the option to brew with either K-Cup pods or ground coffee. The removable water tank and drip tray make cleaning and maintenance effortless.
• Introducing the Singles Serve Coffee Maker, a perfect companion for those with busy schedules. Designed to be small and compact, this coffee machine allows for quick brewing and easy cleanup. Additionally, it comes with an auto-off function that helps preserve the lifespan of the machine. Whether you prefer K-Cups or coffee grounds, this machine can accommodate your needs.

8. BUNN VLPF, 12-Cup Automatic Commercial Coffee Maker

• The BUNN VLPF 12-Cup Automatic Coffee Maker is a commercial-grade machine that is perfect for offices and commercial spaces. With its stainless steel construction and two independently controlled warmers, this coffee maker can brew up to 3.8 gallons of coffee per hour while keeping it hot and fresh. It also offers the convenience of dual decanter brewing, allowing you to brew both regular and decaf coffee simultaneously.
• The BUNN VLPF 12-Cup Automatic Coffee Maker has the capacity to brew up to 3.8 gallons of coffee per hour, making it suitable for large events or busy businesses. It features stainless steel internal components and two independently controlled warmers, allowing you to brew different types of coffee at the same time.

9. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker with Milk Frother Compatible with K-Cup Pods and Grounds

• The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker is the perfect companion for your mornings. It allows you to make creamy and frothy lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and hot cocoa right at home. It is also compatible with K-Cup pods, giving you the flexibility to brew your preferred coffee style.
• With this single-cup coffee maker, you have the freedom to choose how you want to brew your coffee. Whether you prefer traditional drip brewing or the convenience of pods, the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker has you covered.
• The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker is designed for those who enjoy lattes and cappuccinos. The built-in frother quickly and easily creates hot, frothy milk for delicious drinks in just 2 minutes. Furthermore, the adjustable spout allows you to brew directly into your favorite mug or travel cup. This coffee maker also accommodates ground coffee or whole beans, giving you the flexibility to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee tailored to your taste.

The Verdict

Our top pick for the best dual coffee maker in 2021 is the incredibly versatile Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System. This coffee maker offers an extensive range of features, allowing you to brew carafes, single-serve cups, iced coffee, and even frothy milk drinks like cappuccinos.

However, if you prefer a coffee maker specifically for brewing coffee and want to save some money, our top budget pick is the Hamilton Beach Two-Way Brewer. This fully programmable coffee maker is capable of brewing a delicious carafe or single cup without breaking the bank.

The difference between drip coffee and espresso lies in the brewing process. Drip coffee is made by slowly trickling water through coarsely ground coffee beans, while espresso is brewed quickly under high pressure using finely ground coffee. As a result, espresso has a more intense flavor and a heavier body and is typically consumed in smaller quantities.

Both K-Cups and ground coffee can be used to brew drip coffee, but freshly ground coffee always provides superior results. K-Cups contain a small amount of coffee, resulting in a weaker brew when making a large mug. Additionally, the coffee in K-Cups may not be as fresh as using freshly ground coffee. Furthermore, the environmental impact of single-use plastic K-Cups should also be considered.

In the context of programmable coffee makers, "bold" refers to coffee that is brewed with a higher ratio of ground coffee to water, resulting in a stronger flavor and higher caffeine content. When shopping for coffee beans, "bold" often indicates a darker roast with a more pronounced flavor.

DeLonghi Pump Espresso and Drip Coffee Machine

• Carafe: Made of glass
• Capacity: Can brew up to 10 cups of coffee
• Dimensions: Measures 14.5 x 11 x 12.8 inches

DeLonghi is known for producing a wide range of exceptional coffee and espresso machines, and this particular model combines both of these functionalities into one.

You have the option to choose between a black or silver machine, and you can also decide whether you want just the coffee machine or one that comes with a milk frothing jug.

One of the key features of this machine is its front-loading design, which provides more flexibility in terms of placement. Additionally, the front-loading mechanism ensures that using the DeLonghi machine is incredibly easy and straightforward.

For those who prefer fresh drip coffee, it's recommended to grind your beans right before brewing to achieve the maximum level of freshness. Simply load the freshly ground beans into the machine, and watch as the 10-cup glass carafe fills up with rich and full-bodied coffee, setting the tone for a perfect start to your day.

One possible drawback is the relatively small water reservoir, which has a capacity of only 40oz. As a result, you may find yourself needing to refill the reservoir more frequently than you would prefer.

Unlike many other dual-brew coffee makers, this model comes with a permanent filter included in the package. This not only saves you money but also allows you to start brewing right out of the box without any additional purchases.

While there have been some occasional complaints about the customer service, overall, this DeLonghi coffee maker is highly regarded as one of the best choices for those in search of a dual-brew machine. So why not give it a try?

• Front-loading design
• Simple and user-friendly
• Water tank is removable

• Some concerns regarding customer service

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1) What are the options for carafes in a dual-brew coffee maker?

When it comes to carafes, there are typically three main choices: plastic, glass, and thermal. Plastic carafes are generally not recommended due to their questionable materials, short lifespan, and the potential for imparting an undesirable taste to your coffee. Glass carafes, on the other hand, sit on a hot plate to keep the coffee warm after brewing. However, if left in the carafe for too long, the coffee can become bitter. Alternatively, stainless steel thermal carafes may not be transparent, but they offer superior insulation and durability compared to glass carafes.

2) Can I use both sides of a 2-way coffee maker simultaneously?

Not all dual-brew machines allow for simultaneous operation of both sides. However, this feature is not typically the main selling point of these machines. The primary advantage is having the option to brew both regular coffee and pod-based coffee on-demand, rather than the ability to make two types of coffee simultaneously. While it is possible on some machines, it's not the deciding factor when considering a purchase.

3) How long does it take to brew coffee in a dual-brew coffee maker?

The brewing time can vary depending on the specific machine and the amount of coffee being brewed. Typically, single-serve pod-based coffee can be ready in less than a minute. However, when brewing a full carafe of coffee, it may take around 10 minutes or more. Some machines offer a brew pause feature, allowing you to pour a cup of coffee while the brewing process is still ongoing. Additionally, many of these machines can be programmed to start brewing at specific times, eliminating the waiting period and ensuring a fresh pot of coffee is ready when you wake up in the morning or return home from work in the evenings.

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best combination coffee maker, the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew takes the top spot. Its versatility, affordability, and user-friendly design make it a clear winner. However, it's important to consider your own specific needs and preferences when choosing a dual coffee maker. Whether you opt for the convenience of a Keurig K-Duo, the all-in-one functionality of the Cuisinart Coffee Center, or the specialty brews of the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker, there is a perfect option out there for everyone. Don't forget to keep an eye out for important features such as brewing capacity, programmable settings, and durability. With our list of top picks and detailed reviews, finding the best dual coffee maker has never been easier. So go ahead, embrace the love for both drip coffee and espresso with the DeLonghi Pump Espresso and Drip Coffee Machine, and start your mornings off right with the perfect cup of joe.