Finding the best coffee maker with grinder this year feels like a quest for the holy grail of morning routines. I’ve spent countless hours testing machines, from basic models to high-end behemoths, all in search of that perfect, freshly ground cup. The key is a machine that doesn’t just combine two functions, but integrates them seamlessly to deliver a consistently excellent brew without the fuss. It’s about more than convenience; it’s about unlocking a richer, more aromatic flavor profile that pre-ground coffee simply can’t match.
This year’s standout models focus on precision and customization, offering everything from adjustable grind settings to programmable brewing strength. I looked at factors like grind consistency, brew temperature accuracy, ease of cleaning, and overall durability. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a dedicated enthusiast, my goal is to help you find the ideal machine for your kitchen. Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders that have earned a spot on my countertop.
Top Picks for the Best Coffee Maker With Grinder
- Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
- Technivorm Moccamaster KBG Coffee Brewer with Grinder
- Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal 12-Cup Automatic Coffee Maker
- Baratza Encore Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
If you’re serious about your espresso but don’t want the learning curve of a fully manual machine, the Breville Barista Touch is a game-changer. This all-in-one unit features a built-in conical burr grinder with precise dose control, a thermocoil heating system for optimal water temperature, and automated milk frothing that actually works. The touch screen interface guides you through every step, from selecting your grind size to choosing your milk texture and temperature, making it incredibly intuitive to use. I found that it produces a remarkably consistent shot with rich crema, and the milk frother creates microfoam that’s perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.
What sets this model apart is its ability to offer barista-level results without requiring barista-level skills. The grinder is quiet and effective, and the machine’s pre-infusion function gently expands the coffee grounds for a more even extraction. Cleanup is also considered, with a removable water tank and drip tray. While it’s certainly an investment, the quality of the espresso and the sheer convenience justify the price for anyone who drinks multiple milk-based drinks daily. It’s the closest you can get to a café experience at home without taking a professional course.
Technivorm Moccamaster KBG Coffee Brewer with Grinder
For pour-over purists who want the ultimate in batch brewing, the Technivorm Moccamaster KBG is the undisputed champion. This isn’t just a coffee maker with a grinder slapped on; it’s a meticulously engineered system designed to meet strict SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) standards. The built-in grinder is a professional-grade flat burr unit that offers incredibly consistent grounds, which is the absolute foundation of great coffee. The brewer itself is a masterpiece, using a copper boiling element to heat water to the perfect 196-205°F range in just a few minutes.
The brewing process is a spectacle of precision engineering. Water is dispersed in a perfect showerhead pattern over the grounds, ensuring full saturation, and the 9-hole drip stop gives you complete control over the brewing time. The carafe is thermal, so your coffee stays hot for hours without a scorching hot plate. I’ve used this machine extensively, and the clarity and flavor of the coffee it produces are unmatched by any other automatic drip machine I’ve tried. It’s a statement piece for your kitchen that delivers on its promise of a perfect pot, every single time.
Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal 12-Cup Automatic Coffee Maker
If you need a reliable and affordable coffee maker with grinder that gets the job done without a huge footprint or price tag, the Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal is a fantastic workhorse. This machine is all about straightforward, no-fuss operation. You load whole beans into the top, set the grind level (from coarse to fine), program your brew time, and wake up to the smell of freshly ground coffee. The built-in burr grinder is a step above blade grinders and does a decent job for automatic drip coffee.
The best feature, in my opinion, is the thermal carafe. It keeps coffee hot for a long time without applying any heat, which prevents that burnt, bitter taste you get from glass carafes on hot plates. The brew strength selector is a nice touch, allowing you to choose between a regular or a bolder cup. While it might not have the ultra-precise temperature control of the Technivorm, it consistently brews a very good, hot pot of coffee. For its price point, it offers exceptional value and convenience for households that go through a lot of coffee each morning.
Baratza Encore Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
I know this isn’t a coffee maker with a grinder, but hear me out. If you already have a brewer you love—be it a French press, a pour-over setup, or a reliable drip machine—the single biggest upgrade you can make is to start grinding your beans fresh. The Baratza Encore is, without a doubt, the best entry-point into quality grinding. Its consistent conical burr grind produces uniform particles that are essential for even extraction, whether you’re making espresso or cold brew.
I’ve recommended this grinder to countless friends because it’s built to last and performs well above its price class. The 40mm steel burrs are effective and durable, and the machine offers 40 individual grind settings. This range gives you the flexibility to dial in the perfect grind size for any brewing method. It’s simple to use, relatively quiet, and Baratza is famous for its excellent customer support and readily available repair parts. Pairing this grinder with your existing brewer will improve your coffee’s flavor more than buying any new all-in-one machine on a budget.
What Is This Year’s Best Coffee Maker With Grinder? A Closer Look
Figuring out what is this year’s best coffee maker with grinder depends a lot on what you need from your morning cup. I have found that the best all-around machine for most people is the Breville Barista Express Impress. It takes a lot of the guesswork out of making a great espresso, which is where many combo machines struggle.
This machine stands out because it does a lot of the hard parts for you. It automatically tamps the coffee grounds, which is a step beginners often mess up. It also has a built-in grinder with settings you can adjust to get the perfect fineness for your beans. For me, the best part is how it helps you get the milk texture right for lattes and cappuccinos, guiding you through the whole process. It is an investment, but it makes cafe-quality drinks a daily reality.
If your focus is on drip coffee rather than espresso, my top pick is the Breville Grind Control. This machine is a workhorse. You pour in whole beans, set your strength and how many cups you want, and it handles the rest. It grinds the beans right into the filter and starts brewing, so you get a pot of coffee that tastes incredibly fresh. It is a simple way to make a huge improvement in your daily brew without needing to learn any new skills.
For those who want a single-serve option, the Nespresso VertuoPlus with a separate grinder is a solid path. While most single-serve machines use pods, you can use a standalone grinder for a fresh press-like experience with certain reusable capsules. This combo offers convenience and variety, though it is a two-piece setup.
When you are choosing, think about your routine. Do you need speed, or are you willing to learn a new skill? Do you drink espresso or filter coffee? Answering these questions will lead you to your personal best coffee maker with grinder.
FAQ
Why is a built-in grinder so important for good coffee?
Coffee beans start losing their flavor and aroma almost immediately after they are ground. Exposure to air (oxidation) is the main culprit. A built-in grinder means you are brewing with coffee that was whole beans just seconds before, capturing all those delicate flavors and oils that make a cup taste complex and fresh. Pre-ground coffee, no matter how high-quality, will always taste duller in comparison.
Are these combination machines difficult to clean and maintain?
They do require a bit more maintenance than a simple drip machine, but it is not overly complicated. The grinder is the part that needs the most attention. You will need to clean it out every so often with a specialized brush or grinder cleaning pellets to remove old coffee oils and residue that can make new coffee taste bitter. Most machines also have removable parts like water reservoirs and drip trays that are dishwasher safe. It is a small trade-off for a much better cup of coffee.
Can I use any kind of coffee bean in these machines?
Absolutely. You can use any whole coffee beans you like. This is one of the biggest advantages. You are not locked into specific pods or pre-ground brands. You can experiment with different roasts, origins, and blends from your local roaster or grocery store until you find your perfect bean. I recommend trying a few different kinds to see what you prefer.
What is the main difference between a drip coffee maker with a grinder and an espresso machine with a grinder?
The main difference is the brewing method and the final product. A drip machine with a grinder, like the Breville Grind Control, is designed to make a full pot of filter coffee. It is great for serving multiple people or if you just want a large mug. An espresso machine with a grinder, like the Breville Barista Express, uses pressure to force hot water through finely-ground coffee, creating a small, concentrated shot that is the base for drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. Your choice should be based on which type of coffee you drink most often.
Is it worth the cost to get a machine with a built-in grinder?
From my experience, if you are serious about your coffee tasting great, it is completely worth it. The jump in quality from using pre-ground coffee to freshly ground beans is the single biggest improvement you can make to your coffee at home. While the initial cost is higher than a standard coffee maker, you are essentially getting two appliances in one. You also save money over time by not buying expensive pre-packaged pods or pre-ground bags that go stale quickly.