Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker Review: 2024 Edition

When it comes to brewing a perfect cup of coffee, Mr. Coffee is a brand that consistently delivers quality and convenience. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a dedicated aficionado, selecting the right coffee maker can make all the difference in your daily routine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 6 Mr. Coffee makers currently on the market, each offering unique features designed to enhance your coffee experience. From advanced brewing technology to user-friendly designs, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision. Dive in to find the best Mr. Coffee maker that suits your lifestyle and taste preferences!

1. MR. COFFEE 12-CUP COFFEE MAKER – BEST PERFORMANCE COFFEE MAKER

Brand: Mr. Coffee
Color: Black
Product Dimensions: 11.76″ D x 12.3″ W x 13.8″ H
Capacity: 12 Cups
Material: Plastic
Item Weight: 3.6 lbs
Wattage: 900 watts

Key Features:

  • Explicit Brewing Indicator: Stay informed with the on/off indicator light that clearly shows the coffee maker’s status, ensuring you’re always aware of the brewing process.
  • Convenient Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause: Need a cup before brewing is complete? The auto-pause feature allows you to pour a cup mid-brew without any mess.
  • Hassle-Free Cord Storage: Designed with easy cord storage, this feature helps keep your counter clutter-free and organized.
  • Classic Functionality: Brew rich, flavorful coffee effortlessly with Mr. Coffee’s 12-Cup Coffee Maker, a reliable choice for consistently excellent coffee.
  • User-Friendly Design: The removable basket filter is easy to lift out, making filling and cleaning simple and quick.
  • Versatile Brewing: Whether you need a single cup or the full 12 cups, this automatic coffee maker delivers exceptional coffee time after time.
  • Guided Use: Comes with a user guide or manual in PDF format (see document below) to ensure efficient setup and use for first-time users.

Dimensions: Height: 12.56 inches x Width: 11.76 inches x Depth: 8.43 inches
Weight: 3.6 pounds

Pros:

  • Affordable Price Point: The Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker offers great value for money, making it a budget-friendly choice for coffee lovers.
  • Compact and Lightweight Design: With dimensions of 11.76″ D x 12.3″ W x 13.8″ H and weighing just 3.6 lbs, this coffee maker fits easily on most countertops and is easy to move.
  • Brew Pause Feature: The auto-pause function lets you pour a cup of coffee mid-brew without any mess, adding convenience to your coffee routine.
  • Removable Filter Basket: The filter basket is easy to remove, allowing for hassle-free filling and cleaning.
  • Brew Strength Selector: Customize your coffee with the option to choose between regular and bold brew strengths, catering to different taste preferences.
  • Brew Indicator Light: An on/off indicator light provides a clear visual cue of when the coffee maker is in use, keeping you informed.
  • Cord Storage: The built-in cord storage keeps your counter neat and tidy by allowing you to tuck away excess cord.

Cons:

  • Plastic Construction: While lightweight, the plastic construction may feel less durable compared to models with stainless steel components.
  • Brew Pause Not Always Reliable: Some users have experienced drips and spills when using the brew pause feature, which can be inconvenient.
  • Brew Time: Brewing a full 12-cup pot may take longer compared to more advanced coffee makers with faster brewing capabilities.
  • No Programmable Features: This coffee maker lacks programmable settings such as auto-brew, which are available in some higher-end models.
  • Brew Quality: The coffee produced may lack the depth and richness found in more expensive machines, which could affect the overall taste.
  • No Permanent Filter Included: The coffee maker does not come with a permanent filter, requiring you to purchase paper filters separately or invest in a reusable filter.

2. MR. COFFEE 4-CUP STEAM ESPRESSO SYSTEM – BEST ESPRESSO COFFEE MAKER

Brand: Mr. Coffee
Color: Silver, Black
Product Dimensions: 6.5″ D x 8″ W x 10.5″ H
Special Feature: Removable Tank, Milk Frother
Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
Capacity: 4 Cups
Material: Stainless Steel
Item Weight: 1.65 Pounds
Wattage: 900 watts

About this item:

  • Steam Heat Technology: Utilizes hot steam to force through the filter, delivering a dark, rich espresso brew with full flavor and intensity.
  • Frothing Arm: Equipped with a frothing arm to create creamy, frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos, enhancing your coffee experience.
  • Removable Drip Catcher: Features a removable and washable drip tray that collects coffee drips, keeping your brewing area clean and tidy.
  • User-Friendly: Comes with a user guide (provided below in PDF) to ensure a smooth setup and operation, making it easy for first-time users.

The Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine combines compact design with practical features, offering a simple yet effective solution for making delicious espresso and frothy milk drinks at home.

Pros:

  • Compact and Lightweight Design: With dimensions of 6.5″ D x 8″ W x 10.5″ H and a weight of just 1.65 lbs, this espresso machine is perfect for small kitchens and easy to move around.
  • Stainless Steel Construction: The sleek stainless steel housing not only adds a modern touch but also enhances durability.
  • Steam Heat Technology: Delivers a rich, intense espresso by forcing hot steam through the filter, maximizing flavor extraction.
  • Frothing Arm: Allows you to create creamy, frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos, elevating your coffee drinks.
  • Removable Drip Tray: The washable drip tray collects coffee drips, keeping your counter clean and simplifying cleanup.
  • User-Friendly: Includes a user guide for straightforward setup and operation, making it ideal for beginners.
  • Affordable Price Point: Offers good value for its price, making it accessible for those on a budget.

Cons:

  • Small Capacity: With a 4-cup capacity, it’s not ideal for larger households or for making multiple drinks at once.
  • Limited Features: Lacks advanced options like programmable settings, automatic milk frothing, or built-in grinders found in higher-end models.
  • Plastic Components: Although the exterior is stainless steel, some internal parts and the portafilter are plastic, which might affect long-term durability.
  • Brew Quality: While satisfactory for the price, the espresso might not have the depth and complexity of more expensive machines or manual espresso makers.
  • Maintenance: Requires more effort to clean and maintain, especially the steam wand and frothing arm, compared to machines with automatic milk frothing.

3. MR. COFFEE ESPRESSO CAFÉ BARISTA CAPPUCCINO MAKER – BEST CUSTOMIZABLE ESPRESSO COFFEE MAKER

Brand: Mr. Coffee
Color: Silver
Product Dimensions: 8.86″ D x 11.22″ W x 12.6″ H
Special Features: Programmable, Milk Frother, Removable Tank
Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
Capacity: 15 Liters
Material: Stainless Steel
Item Weight: 10.37 Pounds
Wattage: 1040 Watts

About this Item:

  • 3-in-1 Functionality: This semi-automatic machine effortlessly brews espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.
  • High-Pressure Brewing: Equipped with a powerful 15-bar pump system, it ensures richly-flavored espresso with every shot.
  • Automated Perfection: Features a trouble-free automatic milk frother for consistently perfect froth, enhancing your coffee creations.
  • Easy Operation: A user-friendly one-touch control panel allows for hassle-free selection between drink options.
  • Customizable Shots: Offers flexibility with single and double shot filters, so you can tailor your espresso to your preference.
  • Reliable Quality: Designed to deliver optimal brewing pressure, thanks to its coarse grind, correct coffee amount, and substantial tamping.
  • Efficient Time-Saver: Delivers coffeehouse-style beverages quickly and conveniently from the comfort of your home, saving you both time and money.

This Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine combines practicality with performance, offering a range of features to cater to your espresso needs and elevate your at-home coffee experience.

Pros:

  • 3-in-1 Functionality: This versatile semi-automatic machine can brew espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes, providing a wide range of coffeehouse-style beverages from one compact unit.
  • High-Pressure Brewing: Equipped with a robust 15-bar pump system, it ensures richly flavored espresso with every shot, enhancing your coffee experience with consistent quality.
  • Automated Milk Frother: The hassle-free automatic milk frother consistently creates perfect froth, making it easy to prepare creamy milk-based drinks without extra effort.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Featuring a one-touch control panel, the machine allows for straightforward selection between drink options, making it accessible even for beginners.
  • Customizable Shots: Offers the flexibility to choose between single and double shot filters, allowing you to adjust your espresso strength according to your taste.
  • Removable Water and Milk Tanks: The easy-fill, removable water and milk reservoirs simplify both the brewing process and cleaning, enhancing convenience.
  • Compact Design: With dimensions of 8.86″ D x 11.22″ W x 12.6″ H and weighing 10.37 pounds, this machine is compact and lightweight, fitting well in most kitchens without occupying too much counter space.

Cons:

  • Limited Capacity: Although capable of brewing up to 15 liters, this might not be adequate for larger households or gatherings that need multiple servings of espresso or milk-based drinks.
  • Plastic Components: While the exterior is made of stainless steel, some internal parts are plastic, which may feel less durable compared to models with full metal construction.
  • Learning Curve: Despite its user-friendly interface, first-time users may need to experiment with grind size and tamping pressure to achieve the best espresso extraction.
  • Frothing Limitations: The automatic milk frother, while convenient, may not produce the same quality of froth or support intricate latte art as a manual steam wand.
  • No Programmable Features: The lack of advanced programmable settings could be a drawback for users who prefer more control over their brewing process.
  • Wattage: With a power consumption of 1040 watts, it may use more electricity compared to lower-wattage models, which could be a concern for those mindful of energy usage.

4. MR. COFFEE 12-CUP PROGRAMMABLE COFFEE MAKER – BEST COFFEE MAKER FOR BLACK COFFEE

Brand: Mr. Coffee
Color: Black
Product Dimensions: 9.8″ D x 10.5″ W x 13.7″ H
Special Features: Programmable
Coffee Maker Type: Drip Coffee Machine
Capacity: 12 Cups
Material: Glass
Item Weight: 4.55 lbs
Wattage: 900 watts

About This Item:

  • Programmable Timer: Set the brew time up to 24 hours in advance, so you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee every morning.
  • Automatic Shut-Off: The coffee maker automatically powers down after 2 hours, ensuring safety and energy efficiency.
  • Water Window: The reservoir includes a water window for precise filling, making it easy to see how much water is in the tank.
  • Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause: This feature allows you to pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete, without making a mess.
  • Dishwasher-Safe Carafe: Comes with a 12-cup glass carafe that is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
  • Audible Ready Signal: An audible signal alerts you when your coffee is ready, so you never miss a fresh brew.
  • Brewing Pause ‘n Serve: Lets you pour a cup of coffee while brewing is still in progress, offering convenience and flexibility.

This Mr. Coffee model combines practicality with convenience, making it a great choice for any coffee enthusiast looking for a reliable and user-friendly coffee maker.

Pros:

  • Programmable Timer: Set your brew time up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you wake up to freshly brewed coffee every morning for added convenience.
  • Automatic Shut-Off: Powers down the coffee maker after 2 hours of inactivity, promoting safety and energy efficiency.
  • Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause: Pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle completes without mess, ideal for busy mornings.
  • Water Window: Clear water window on the reservoir for precise filling, allowing easy monitoring of the water level.
  • Dishwasher-Safe Carafe: The 12-cup glass carafe is dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup and maintenance.
  • Audible Ready Signal: An alert lets you know when your coffee is ready, so you never miss out on a fresh brew.
  • Lightweight and Compact: Weighs just 4.55 lbs with dimensions of 9.8″ D x 10.5″ W x 13.7″ H, making it easy to fit in smaller kitchens and move around.

Cons:

  • Basic Construction: Primarily made of plastic, which may not feel as durable or premium as stainless steel alternatives.
  • Limited Brew Quality: While it brews decent coffee, it may not match the depth of flavor or quality offered by higher-end machines, which may disappoint coffee enthusiasts.
  • Auto Pause Reliability: Some users have experienced issues with the Grab-A-Cup feature, leading to occasional drips or spills.
  • No Advanced Features: Lacks additional features like a built-in grinder or customizable brew settings found in more expensive models.
  • Carafe Fragility: The glass carafe is dishwasher safe but can be prone to breakage if not handled carefully.
  • Height Restrictions: The non-removable top lid may make it challenging to refill the water tank if you have limited clearance above the coffee maker.

5. MR. COFFEE SIMPLE BREW COFFEE MAKER – BEST COMPACT COFFEE MAKER

Brand: Mr. Coffee
Color: Black
Special Features: Manual operation, Reusable filter
Coffee Maker Type: Drip Coffee Machine
Filter Type: Permanent, reusable
Capacity: 4 cups
Material: Plastic
Item Weight: 2.87 lbs
Wattage: 110 watts

About This Item:

  • On/Off Indicator Light: Easily see when your coffee maker is operating with a clear on/off indicator light.
  • Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause: Pour a cup of coffee mid-brew with the convenient auto-pause feature, perfect for quick breaks (each cup is 5 oz).
  • Dual Water Window: The dual water windows allow precise filling, preventing overflows and ensuring accurate measurements.
  • Removable Filter Basket: Simplifies cleanup with a removable filter basket that’s easy to lift out and wash.
  • Stain-Resistant Warming Plate: The warming plate resists stains and is easy to clean, maintaining a neat appearance.

With its compact design, user-friendly features, and budget-friendly price, the Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Coffee Maker is an excellent choice for those who enjoy fresh coffee without fuss.

Pros:

  • Compact Design: Measuring 9.8″ D x 10.5″ W x 13.7″ H and weighing just 2.87 lbs, this coffee maker is ideal for tight spaces.
  • Manual Operation: Offers full control over the brewing process for a simple and user-friendly experience.
  • Reusable Filter: The permanent filter is environmentally friendly and saves money by eliminating the need for paper filters.
  • Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause: Allows for convenient pouring mid-brew, perfect for quick coffee breaks.
  • Dual Water Window: Provides precise filling visibility to avoid overflows.
  • Stain-Resistant Warming Plate: Easy to clean, maintaining a neat appearance over time.
  • On/Off Indicator Light: Clearly shows when the coffee maker is in operation.

Cons:

  • Limited Capacity: With a 4-cup (20 oz) capacity, this model may not meet the needs of larger households or gatherings.
  • Basic Features: Lacks advanced functionalities like programmable settings or automatic shut-off.
  • Plastic Construction: Made primarily of plastic, which may feel less durable compared to metal alternatives.
  • Small Brew Size: Each cup is only 5 oz, which may not satisfy those who prefer larger servings.
  • Potential for Mess: The Grab-A-Cup feature may sometimes result in drips or spills.
  • No Advanced Brewing Options: Lacks features such as pre-infusion or brew strength control, limiting customization for coffee enthusiasts.

6. MR. COFFEE TM75 ICED TEA MAKER – BEST COFFEE MAKER FOR ICED DRINKS

Brand: Mr. Coffee
Color: Blue
Product Dimensions: 11.5″ D x 7″ W x 13.6″ H
Special Feature: Programmable
Coffee Maker Type: Iced Tea and Coffee Infuser
Capacity: 2 Quarts
Material: Plastic
Item Weight: 3.1 lbs
Wattage: 700 Watts

About This Item:
The Mr. Coffee 2-Quart Iced Tea and Coffee Maker in vibrant blue offers versatility and convenience for making refreshing beverages. Designed for both iced tea and iced coffee, it accommodates tea bags or loose tea, and features a generous 2-quart pitcher capacity. The removable brew basket simplifies the brewing process and cleanup, while the programmable settings ensure you can set it up in advance for a fresh brew anytime. With an auto shut-off function, this machine powers down once the cycle is complete, adding to its ease of use and safety. The included cleaning cycle helps maintain the machine’s performance with minimal effort.

Pros:

  • Versatile Beverage Maker: Ideal for both iced tea and iced coffee, with the capability to use tea bags or loose tea.
  • Generous Capacity: The 2-quart pitcher is perfect for serving multiple people or preparing a large batch of your favorite beverage.
  • Removable Brew Basket: Simplifies the brewing process and makes cleaning easier.
  • Programmable Settings: Allows you to set up your brew in advance, ensuring a fresh and ready drink when you need it.
  • Auto Shut-Off: Enhances safety and energy efficiency by turning off the machine automatically after brewing.
  • Easy Maintenance: Includes a programmed cleaning cycle to keep the machine in top condition with minimal effort.

Cons:

  • Plastic Construction: Made of plastic, which may not offer the same durability or premium feel as metal alternatives.
  • Limited Capacity for Larger Gatherings: Although 2 quarts is ample for many, it may not suffice for larger gatherings or events.
  • Basic Features: Lacks advanced features found in some higher-end models, such as temperature control or a built-in grinder.
  • Brewing Time: May take longer to brew compared to more advanced iced tea and coffee makers.

Mr. Coffee Maker Buying Guide

1. Size and Capacity

When choosing a Mr. Coffee maker, consider how much coffee you typically drink daily. For concentrated coffee, such as espresso, Mr. Coffee offers models like the Mr. Coffee Café Barista that brew a single cup per batch. These machines are ideal if you prefer a rich, concentrated brew and enjoy making various espresso-based drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos.

If you need to brew a larger quantity of coffee, the Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker is an excellent choice. It can quickly produce up to 12 cups of coffee, typically in under 12 minutes, making it suitable for households or offices with higher coffee consumption.

For added convenience, many Mr. Coffee machines feature the Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause function. This allows you to pause the brewing process and pour a cup of coffee before the cycle is complete, ideal for busy mornings or when you need a quick caffeine fix. Note that this feature is generally available in models with larger capacities, such as the 12-cup brewers.

2. Permanent Filters

Mr. Coffee coffee makers come equipped with Gold Tone permanent filters. These reusable filters eliminate the need for paper filters, offering both environmental and cost benefits. The Gold Tone filter effectively captures coffee grounds while preserving the natural oils and aroma of the coffee, resulting in a more flavorful brew.

While Mr. Coffee’s permanent filters are designed to handle most brewing needs, some machines may still be compatible with paper filters if you prefer them.

3. Thermal Brew System

An advanced feature to look for is the thermal brewing system. This technology heats water up to 205 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring optimal extraction of rich and smooth coffee. The thermal brew system disperses hot water evenly over the coffee grounds, enhancing the flavor profile and aroma of your coffee. This feature is particularly valuable if you seek a high-quality, consistent brew.

In summary, when selecting a Mr. Coffee maker, consider your daily coffee consumption, the convenience of features like programmable settings and auto-pause, and the benefits of permanent filters and thermal brewing technology. By understanding these aspects, you can find the Mr. Coffee machine that best fits your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can You Use Coffee Pods in Mr. Coffee Coffee Makers?

No, Mr. Coffee coffee makers are designed for use with ground coffee only. The ideal ratio for brewing is 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water. You can adjust this to your taste, adding more coffee if you prefer a stronger brew.

Using coffee pods is not recommended for Mr. Coffee machines, as they may lead to uneven extraction. This can result in bitter or chalky coffee and potentially damage your machine due to clogging or overheating. For the best results, stick to ground coffee and ensure proper measurement for optimal flavor.

2. How to Clean a Mr. Coffee Coffee Maker?

For Drip Coffee Makers:

  1. Descaling: To remove hard water deposits, use a vinegar solution. Fill the water tank with a mixture of vinegar and water (equal parts), and start the cleaning cycle. If your model does not have a Cleaning button, run a brewing cycle with the solution instead.
  2. Rinsing: After 1-2 cycles with the vinegar solution, run several cycles with plain water to flush out any remaining vinegar. Allow the water to sit in the tank before repeating as needed until the vinegar odor is gone.
  3. Cleaning Components: Rinse the carafe, water tank, and other removable parts. If these parts are dishwasher-safe, clean them accordingly.

For Espresso Machines:

  1. Frequency: Clean your espresso machine after approximately 60 shots of espresso.
  2. Cleaning Parts: Wipe down the portafilter, milk reservoir, and frothing wand with a soft cloth. For milk stains on the frothing wand, turn on the wand to loosen hardened milk before wiping it clean.
  3. Washing: Clean the milk reservoir and water tank with mild soap, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
  4. Flushing: Refill the water tank and flush the system. Ensure that coffee pods are empty and clean. Repeat the flushing process once or twice to remove any residue.

3. What Are the Different Types of Mr. Coffee Coffee Makers?

Mr. Coffee offers a range of coffee makers tailored to different preferences:

  • Espresso Machines: These use a bar pressure system to deliver rich and smooth espresso. They are semi-automatic, allowing you to select single or double shots, and typically include a milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos.
  • Drip Coffee Makers: Ideal for brewing larger quantities of coffee, these machines can brew from 1 to 12 cups per batch. They feature brewing technology designed to extract robust, flavorful coffee and often come with convenient features such as automatic shut-off, delay timers, programmable 24-hour settings, and warming plates.

Conclusion:

Choose a Mr. Coffee maker based on your coffee preferences—whether you enjoy a quick espresso or a large pot of drip coffee—and consider features that best fit your brewing needs.

With all the essential details about Mr. Coffee coffee makers at your fingertips, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision. These coffee makers are designed to brew strong, aromatic coffee with ease, delivering café-quality results right in your home. Their intuitive features, user-friendly designs, and reliable performance have made Mr. Coffee a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts.

If you’re in search of a coffee maker that combines simplicity with durability, Mr. Coffee offers a range of options to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a drip coffee maker for large batches or an espresso machine for a more refined brew, Mr. Coffee provides reliable and enjoyable coffee-making experiences.

So, if you’re ready to enhance your coffee routine with a machine that’s both straightforward and dependable, Mr. Coffee is an excellent choice for bringing the café experience to your kitchen.