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Don’t let a bulky coffee maker clutter your kitchen or drain your wallet. Fresh coffee tastes best, especially for those who live alone or in small homes. Opt for a top-quality 4-cup coffee maker over a single-serve or a giant 12-cup machine. It’s a smarter choice for your space and your coffee moments.
No matter your budget, there’s a perfect 4-cup coffee maker out there for you. From amazing brews to a simple good morning coffee, this list has it all. Explore drip coffee makers, French presses, Moka pots, and more to find your match!
Quick Take: Best 4-Cup Coffee Makers
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Best 4-cup coffee maker |
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Cuisinart 4 Cup w/Stainless-Steel Carafe Coffeemaker, Black | Check price |
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Best premium coffee maker |
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Bonavita 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker Machine, One-Touch Pour Over Brewing w/Double Wall Thermal Carafe, SCA Certified, 1100 Watt, BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe, Stainless Steel, BV1500TS | Check price |
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Best budget coffee maker |
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Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Coffee Maker, White - DR4-RB | Check price |
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Best programmable coffee maker |
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Capresso 5-Cup Mini Drip Coffee Maker, Black and Stainless Steel | Check price |
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Best 4-cup French press |
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Frieling Double-Walled Stainless-Steel French Press Coffee Maker, Polished, 23 oz - Insulated Coffee Presser Stainless Steel - Coffee Press Pot | Check price |
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Best stovetop coffee maker |
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Bialetti - New Brikka, Moka Pot, the Only Stovetop Coffee Maker Capable of Producing a Crema-Rich Espresso, 4 Cups (5,7 Oz), Aluminum and Black | Check price |
Why Buy a 4-Cup Coffee Maker?
For coffee fans, 4-cup makers are perfect – not too small like single-serve, nor too big like 8-12 cup machines.
Big coffee machines are great for lots of people, like in big families or offices. But, they cost more and aren’t the best choice for smaller families or if you’re making coffee just for yourself. While you can try making just a few cups in a 12-cup maker, usually, the smallest amount you can brew is around 6 cups.
Leaving coffee on a hot plate for too long can spoil its taste, as can reheating it. So, it’s best not to make a lot if you won’t drink it fast. With a 4-cup coffee maker, you get to savor your coffee at its freshest. Say goodbye to the problem of leftover coffee!
A 4-cup coffee maker is perfect for small servings, letting you brew 1-2 cups easily. It’s a great choice if you want more than a single-serve maker offers, but don’t need a lot at once. Plus, it’s handy for serving guests, saving you from brewing several rounds of coffee.
Sure, 4-cup coffee makers are not the tiniest out there, but they’re great space-savers compared to the bigger 12-cup models. Plus, if you’re considering the flexibility of making both small and large amounts, a dual coffee maker might seem tempting but remember, they eat up more counter space and hit your wallet harder.
Best 4-Cup Coffee Makers
Best 4-cup coffee maker: Cuisinart DCC-450BK 4-cup coffee maker
If you don’t finish your drip coffee right away, consider getting a thermal carafe. Unlike the basic glass pots, these keep your coffee warm for a long time without a hot plate. This means your coffee stays hot and tasty for hours, without burning or using extra power.
This Cuisinart coffee maker is a budget-friendly gem with a stainless-steel thermal carafe, a luxury usually found in pricier models like the best Ninja coffee makers. It’s not often you find a thermal carafe in a coffee maker under $100.
Cuisinart’s carafe makes pouring a breeze. Its drip-free spout and knuckle guard protect your fingers from the heat, ensuring a safe and smooth pour every time.
Ever wondered if your coffee maker is on? The handy indicator light will tell you! Plus, don’t worry if you forget to turn it off – it automatically shuts down after 30 minutes. Can’t wait for your first sip? Just pull out the carafe, and the brew-pause feature will let you enjoy that first delicious cup without waiting for the whole cycle to finish.
Cuisinart’s compact coffee maker, at 10 x 8 x 5.25 inches, fits perfectly on almost any countertop.
Cuisinart shines as the best pick with its mix of great features, affordable price, and sleek design. What really sets it apart is the thermal carafe. While it may not be the most powerful or have the most options, no other 4-cup drip coffee maker matches its value for the size and cost.
Is 5 cups of coffee enough for you? It should be because the Bonavita coffee maker, though pricier than the Cuisinart, is absolutely worth it. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
First up, meet the sole automatic pour-over coffee maker that earned a spot on our list. New to these machines? Imagine them as the upgraded version of your classic drip coffee maker.
Believe it or not, your current coffee machine, even with its sleek updates or smart tech, brews coffee just like machines from the 1970s. While it may look modern on the outside, inside, it’s sticking to a 50-year-old method. But here’s the twist: our knowledge of how to brew the perfect cup has evolved significantly since then.
Imagine a gadget that brings a barista’s touch right to your kitchen counter! The Bonavita automatic pour-over coffee maker does just that. It blends new coffee-making techniques with the simplicity of traditional machines, making perfect coffee easy for everyone.
The Bonavita coffee maker keeps your water just right, between 195–205 degrees Fahrenheit, for the perfect cup. Before brewing, it gently soaks your coffee grounds, letting them “breathe” for a smoother taste. Plus, its unique showerhead spreads water evenly across the grounds, avoiding any bitter or sour flavors by making sure every bit of coffee is just right.
These steps are what experts do by hand, but the machine handles it all. This means you get coffee shop-quality brews right at home. It’s hard to find tastier coffee anywhere else!
After brewing your coffee, a stainless-steel carafe keeps it warm for hours. Forget the hot plate or microwave—they’ll spoil your perfect coffee. For top-notch coffee, a thermal carafe is essential.
Best Budget coffee maker: Mr. Coffee 4-cup coffee maker
Welcome, coffee fans! No matter your budget, you’ve found the right spot. For those seeking a budget-friendly 4-cup coffee maker, Mr. Coffee is your go-to. Their machines are straightforward, dependable, and come with unbeatable prices.
This coffee maker is super easy to use with just one switch and a light that shows if it’s on or off. While you can’t set it ahead of time, it has a cool feature that lets you pour a cup mid-brew without any mess.
This tiny powerhouse weighs only 1.6 pounds, making it super light and compact. It comes with a detachable filter basket for hassle-free cleaning and clear water level windows on each side, so you can easily see when it’s time to refill.
Best programmable coffee maker: Capresso 5-cup mini drip coffee maker
Imagine waking up to the aroma of fresh coffee every morning. With Capresso’s programmable coffee maker, you can set it to start brewing up to 24 hours ahead. Just add your coffee grounds and water the night before, and align it with your alarm. It’s like having your own personal barista ready when you are.
This coffee maker is super user-friendly, featuring a digital clock that also acts as a timer. You’ll see an indicator light that tells you when it’s brewing. Plus, it comes packed with awesome features typical of a high-quality drip machine, like the ability to pause brewing and keeping your coffee warm for 2 hours.
Best 4-cup French press: Frieling USA double-walled stainless-steel French press
French press coffee divides opinions. Many love its rich, full-bodied flavor, while others are not fans. It’s a method that brings out a unique taste in your coffee.
A lot of issues people have with French presses, such as gritty coffee, stem from using cheap models. A high-quality French press can fix these problems and also lets you make amazing French press espresso and French press cold brew.
The Frieling French press is unbeatable! Its double-layered stainless steel keeps your coffee hot for ages. Plus, it’s all metal – no plastic bits to fret over mixing into your drink. Not only does it look stunning, but it’s also super sturdy. And guess what? You can toss it in the dishwasher without a worry. Perfect for easy cleaning!
The Frieling shines with its dual-screen filter system. It catches even the tiniest bits, ensuring your French press coffee is smooth but still full of its rich flavors and unique textures. It’s a game-changer for coffee lovers!
Best stovetop coffee maker: Bialetti New Brikka 4-cup Moka pot
Moka pots, also known as stovetop espresso makers, let you whip up delicious, strong coffee easily. Unlike traditional espresso machines that only brew 1-2 shots, Moka pots can make 1 to 12 servings in one go, perfect for any small gathering.
Bialetti stands out when it comes to Moka pots, unmatched in quality. Their Brikka model is a star, brewing coffee that’s not just flavorful but also topped with a delicious crema, the creamy foam that espresso lovers adore.
Moka pots can’t match an espresso machine’s high pressure, so they don’t make true espresso. Instead, they brew a strong coffee, perfect for Americanos, lattes, and cappuccinos. However, if you’re all about authentic espresso, you might want to opt for a real espresso machine.
Gastrorag 4 Cup Electric Coffee Percolator
Before electric coffee makers, people used stovetop percolators. They were tricky to use, and often, the coffee came out bitter. Now, electric percolators, like this one, make it easier. You get the rich taste of percolated coffee without the struggle.
After brewing, the Gastrorag percolator switches to a cozy keep-warm setting. Plus, a bright indicator light will tell you when your coffee is ready to enjoy.
Inside, it’s all stainless steel – no plastic touches your coffee. It comes with a reusable filter basket, saving you from buying paper ones. Plus, cleaning is a breeze because both the basket and the stem can go right into the dishwasher.
Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
Before we dive in, know this: you can make way better espresso. Even espresso machines under $200 outshine 4-cup steam machines. Why? Because, similar to Moka pots, they lack the pressure needed for authentic espresso.
Even so, these machines brew coffee that’s fuller and more flavorful than what you’d get from a regular drip brewer. Plus, they come with a milk frother, letting you whip up lattes and cappuccinos easily, without needing more gadgets.
Bayka Double-Walled French Press Coffee Maker
- Say No to Cheaply Made Products - Are you tired of unhealthy plastics, inferior metal flavor, dealing with broken glass and losing heat? Stainless steel is the way to go! Our French press is made of 304 stainless steel, to be drop-proof and rust-proof. A terrific gift for coffee and tea lovers!
- Innovative 4-Level Filtration Systems - Poorly made filters often break and result in a mug of coffee filled with grounds. To provide you with a cup of coffee like those made by professional baristas, our double stainless steel filters are strong enough to ensure the grounds doesn't get into your cup and make delicious, smooth, full flavor coffee.
- Well Built Coffee Press - A U-shaped spout allows coffee to flow smoothly, without dripping onto your table. A spout marker added on the lid helps you accurately pinpoint the pour spout, while the inside marker will take your brewing accuracy and hosting skills to the next level.
- Hold Heat In - Our insulated French press with 18/10 stainless steel double-layer vacuum structure not only keeps the coffee warm for a long time, but also keeps the handle cool when brewing, so there is no risk of burns. Take your time and savor every delicious sip - the coffee will still be hot when you are ready for a refill.
- Enjoy Unmatched Freshness - BAYKA 21ounce French press makes fresh coffee every time, without wasting expensive beans. The portable design is perfect for travel, camping, adventures or work. Make yourself a smooth, rich cup of coffee at home or while on-the-go.
Many affordable French presses use glass that doesn’t keep heat well. What I love about Bayka is their double-walled stainless steel French press. It’s priced like the glass ones but is much sturdier. The best part? It keeps your coffee hot way longer than other budget options.
Their coffee maker has a 4-step filter that catches tiny bits, making your drink smoother. It’s built with stainless steel, tough and won’t rust. Plus, the handle stays cool, so you won’t burn your fingers. Perfect for everyday use!
Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Cold brew coffee is making a big comeback, especially with the rise of nitro cold brew. It’s loved for its smooth, low-acid flavor. Yes, it takes 12-24 hours to brew, but trust us, it’s super simple to make!
Making cold brew coffee is easy, especially with a cold brew pitcher like this one. It’s affordable and takes away the hassle of filtering your coffee, unlike using a mason jar. This pitcher simplifies an already straightforward process, making it a breeze.
Zojirushi EC-DAC50 Zutto 5-Cup Drip Coffeemaker
On the surface, it looks like any other drip coffee machine, but Zojirushi’s model stands out with its cool, unique features. Dive in, and you’ll see what makes it special!
This coffee maker features a detachable water tank, a convenient trait often found in certain Keurig models and Nespresso machines, as well as other single-serve brewers. This design lets you refill water without the hassle and simplifies cleaning, making your coffee experience smoother.
Your coffee maker’s water tank has a secret weapon: a charcoal water filter. This small addition can make a big difference in your coffee’s taste, especially if you’re using tap water. But don’t worry, even if you already use filtered water, this extra step can still improve your brew. Plus, the filter lasts for two years, so it’s almost hassle-free.
Dive into a new coffee experience with this machine! It uses conical coffee filters, unlike the usual basket filters found in many drip coffee makers. Why does this matter? Conical filters help highlight unique flavors in your coffee, like citrus, sour, or berry notes. It’s a refreshing twist on your regular cup of joe!
Zojirushi’s coffee maker keeps your brew warm automatically, a handy feature! Plus, a 1-year warranty adds extra reassurance.
BLACK+DECKER 5-Cup Coffeemaker DCM600B
The Black and Decker coffee maker is all about keeping things simple and lasting a long time. Its Duralite glass carafe is tougher than most, yet not as sturdy as a thermal one. Running it is a breeze with just a single on/off switch. Perfect for anyone diving into the coffee world!
I absolutely love this coffee machine because it has a super handy feature: two sets of markers. One side shows you the exact amount of water you need, and the other side shows how much coffee you’ll get from that. It doesn’t get easier than this!
Hamilton Beach 48136 5-Cup Switch Coffee Maker
Transform your regular coffee maker into a voice-activated one easily with a smart switch. Hamilton Beach has even made sure their machine works perfectly with it, making your mornings smoother.
This coffee maker offers a great extra plus the usual pause-and-serve feature, all in a simple design.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Ounces Are in 4 Cups of Coffee?
Most coffee makers use 5-ounce cups, although some will use 6 ounces or 4 ounces instead. That means that a 4-cup coffeemaker will probably make 20 ounces of coffee, but it might make as little as 16 ounces or as much as 24 ounces.
It’s confusing!
If you want a specific size, you should verify with the manufacturer before purchasing. Sometimes, you’ll find answers in Amazon’s Q&A section. You can also measure the water going into your carafe to verify. A standard measuring cup is 8 ounces, so a 20-ounce carafe will hold 2.5 8-ounce cups of water. Lastly, you can measure the water in your carafe using a coffee scale, remembering that an ounce of water is about 28.35 grams, so 20 ounces of water would be 567 grams.
How many scoops of coffee for 4 cups?
Assuming your coffee maker uses 5-ounce coffee cups, you should use 3 1/2 scoops for normal strength coffee and 4 scoops for strong coffee. These scoops should be level rather than heaping.
If your coffee maker uses 4-ounce coffee cups, use 2 3/4 scoops for normal strength or 3 1/4 scoops for strong coffee. Finally, if it uses 6-ounce cups, use 4 1/4 scoops for normal and 4 3/4 scoops for strong coffee.
If you want to know more, you can check out my coffee-to-water ratio calculator, which includes info on how much coffee to use for different methods and what happens if you use too much or too little grounds.
Final Verdict
Big coffee machines are cool, but a 4-cup coffee maker can be super handy. Perfect for those who enjoy a few cups alone or want to share a morning brew with friends, these smaller machines are a great choice over the huge 12-cup versions or the one-cup-at-a-time models.
Got a new coffee machine? Awesome! Now, think about grabbing a coffee grinder and diving into how to grind your beans. It’s the secret to the freshest, tastiest coffee and steering clear of bitter flavors. You wouldn’t want your shiny new machine to miss out on making the best coffee ever, right?
