If you want your coffee fast but don’t wish to sacrifice the flavor quality, an automatic pour-over machine would be ideal.
These coffee makers brew delicious, rich beverages with just a touch of a button.
Today, we are going to look at some of the top-rated models and learn how to pick the best automatic pour-over coffee maker that would meet your specific needs. Let’s get started!
| Product | Price | |
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Best Overall — Editor’s Choice — Breville Precision Brewer (BDC450) | Check current price on Amazon |
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Best Thermal Carafe — OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker | Check current price on Amazon |
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Best Glass Carafe Pour-Over Coffee Maker — Cuisinart Coffee Brewer (CPO-850) | Check current price on Amazon |
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Best Best Glass Carafe — Bunn NHS Velocity Brew | Check current price on Amazon |
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Best Pour-Over Coffee Maker with Pre-Infusion — Redline MK1 | Check current price on Amazon |
Our Reviews of the Best Automatic Pour-Over Coffee Makers
Best Overall — Editor’s Choice
Breville Precision Brewer (BDC450)
- Thermocoil heating system;
- 3 flow rate modes;
- dual filter basket;
- 60-oz water reservoir;
- adjustable temperature.
If you want your coffee to remain warm longer, the Breville can help you with that. And it can do much more than that. This thermal carafe pour-over coffee maker meets the brewing standards and even allows for some customization.
This model is a good all-in-one coffee maker as it allows for different brewing sizes. The Breville comes with 2 filter baskets: a flat bottom and a cone filter. You can experiment with coffee + water ratios and even brew 1 cup at a time.
The Breville is certified by the SCA and 
supports the optimal brewing temperature. Using a special Thermocoil heater, the machine heats the water fast and even allows for temperature adjustments. There’s a handy My Brew setting, which lets users customize the flow rate and the bloom time as well.
To sum up, the Breville has a chance to impress you. It brews delicious coffee and keeps it fresh and warm for you to enjoy later.
Best Automatic Pour-Over Coffee Maker With a Double-Walled Carafe
OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker
- can brew 2 to 9 cups of perfect coffee;
- keeps the water at the perfect temperature: 197.6 to 204.8 °F;
- double-walled stainless steel carafe keeps the coffee warm;
- has a 24h postponed start;
- intuitive LED-backlit display.
The OXO 9-cup brewer earned its place on the list of the best automatic pour-over coffee makers thanks to its convenient design. It features a programmable timer, sleep mode, and the always-ready water pot that will quickly brew you a flavorful cup of coffee that meets Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) standards.
The small knob on the front side of the coffee maker allows you to quickly adjust the number of cups. Additionally, the front panel is equipped with a backlit LED display that shows coffee machine status, so you don’t have to control everything.
The coffee maker features a double-walled thermal carafe, which can preserve the warmth for 4-6 hours, especially if you preheat it with hot water.
The water pot keeps the water perfectly heated for making a cup of coffee anytime and has a professional-grade shower head that keeps the coffee beans evenly saturated with water and extracts maximum flavor.
Best Glass Carafe Pour-Over Coffee Maker
Cuisinart Coffee Brewer (CPO-850)
- 8-cup glass carafe;
- plastic exterior;
- programmable 24-hour timer;
- self-stainless steel filter;
- auto shut-off.
If you appreciate clean lines and want a BPA free coffee maker, then this model may interest you. The Cuisinart looks sleek with its stylish glass carafe and keeps coffee fresh longer. And as a pleasant bonus, there’s no BPA plastic in direct contact with the coffee or water.
Unlike many other coffee machines, the Cuisinart allows users to adjust the beverage brew strength. You can pick among the mild, medium, and bold flavors depending on your preferences.
This automatic pour-over coffee maker is programmable and rather versatile in use. It allows for some adjustments and brews delicious coffee. You can also brew extra hot beverages, but keep in mind that the difference between the Hot and the Extra Hot modes isn’t that big.
Overall, it’s hard not to love the Cuisinart. This automatic pour-over coffee maker has everything you may need for a delicious cup of coffee.
Best Automatic Pour-Over Coffee Maker With a Glass Carafe
BUNN NHS Velocity Brew
- brews 4 to 10 cups;
- one of the fastest coffee makers: brews a 10-cup pot in 3 minutes;
- Always-Hot internal hot water tank;
- glass carafe with a fitted lid and spout design that prevents any drips;
- weighs only 8 lbs and features a space-saving design.
Another option for this selection of automatic pour-over coffee machines is the Velocity Brew by Bunn. This brewer features a multi-stream spray head that is resistant to mineral deposits and a 10-cup glass carafe with a drip-proof design.
The Velocity Brew is one of the fastest coffee makers in Bunn’s lineup. It can make a full 10-cup pot in under 3 minutes thanks to an Always-Hot internal tank that keeps the water at the right temperature. Although you can make it work even faster if you adjust the setting to 4 cups.
The water in the tank stays hot all the time, so if you don’t plan to use it for more than 3 days or need to clean it, be sure to turn off the Vacation mode switch on the right side of the coffee maker.
The carafe has a sealed lid and preserves all the flavor for your cup of Joe. Plus, it features a proprietary spout design that prevents coffee from dripping or spilling when you pour it into a cup. After you pour yourself a cup, you can place a carafe on a warming plate to keep it ready for a refill.
Best Pour-Over Coffee Maker with Pre-Infusion
Redline MK1
- 8-cup capacity;
- glass carafe with an insulated funnel;
- aluminum and plastic construction;
- finishes a brewing cycle in under 6 minutes;
- automatic shut-off.
The next item on the list of the best automatic pour-over coffee makers is this sleek machine by Redline. Despite being quite minimalistic, it includes a pre-infusion mode that helps achieve a richer aroma.
The pre-infusion mode works to let the coffee grounds bloom. This way, they have the time to expand and release those precious coffee oils. This results in optimal extraction and superb flavor.
The Redline works with a press of a button. Hands down, this is one of the most user-friendly models you can find on the market. The machine is well-built and uses quality components. The carafe is made of glass and has an insulated funnel for an even coffee distribution and mixing during brewing.
To tell the truth, I did not expect much from this coffee maker. Its minimalistic appearance doesn’t really match the coffee quality it delivers. And that pre-infusion mode gives every beverage an extra flavor boost.
Benefits of Using an Automatic Pour-Over Machine
Source: https://muchneeded.com/coffee-consumption-statistics/
Naturally, as we keep drinking more and more coffee, we get to discover more brewing methods. Many users choose automatic pour-over machines as this type can offer many advantages, including:- Optimal brewing temperature.
Most top-notch automatic pour-over coffee makers reach (and support through the process) the optimal brewing temperature. This prevents under-extraction, when the water isn’t hot enough and makes the coffee taste sour (1). Using a pour-over machine also helps prevent burning the grounds, when the boiling hot water makes the coffee taste bitter (2). Only the best coffee makers can reach an optimal temperature and maintain it throughout the brewing process, and luckily, many pour-overs belong to that list. - Richer, smoother flavor. Pour-over coffee makers are favored for an even water dispersion. This allows the ground coffee to steep well and results in unparalleled coffee quality.
- Good value for money. You can find many reliable models under $200. This means you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious coffee. Plus, switching to a pour-over machine and starting to brew coffee at home can actually help you save money (3).
- Ease of use. Automatic pour-over coffee makers don’t require users to have any coffee brewing experience. All you have to do is put in the grounds and press a button. With time, you might want to learn which coffee coarseness works better for you. You can also try to adjust the coffee + water ratio for the best flavor. But overall, pour-over machines are extremely easy to use.
Typically, automatic pour-over coffee brewers range between 6 and 14 cups in terms of capacity. A larger coffee maker would be ideal for a family of coffee drinkers. However, keep in mind that a bigger carafe model would occupy more space in your kitchen.
Types of Pour-Over Coffee Makers
Source: https://coffee-brewing-methods.com/drip-coffee/pourover-dripper-infographic/
When browsing through the pour-over coffee makers, you may come across two main types: automatic and manual.
Manual brewers require some work on your side: you need to heat the water, grind the beans and place them in the paper filter installed in the drip funnel over your mug. Then, you need to slowly pour the water over the beans and let it drip into the cup for almost 3 minutes.
Manual pour-over methods include Hario brewers and Chemex coffee pots. They’re often found among Japanese coffee makers and are designed for a slow brewing process, which results in a drink with a richer flavor.
But what if you want to speed up the process a little?
Then an automatic pour-over brewer is right for you!
These models still require some work from you — such as grinding the beans and filling the filter basket — but the brewing process is fully automatic and takes less time while yielding the same results.
Automatic pour-over brewers have a built-in temperature controller that keeps the heat at the same level while brewing coffee. Plus, you can program the flow rate to achieve different brew strength, flavor, or choose a delayed start to wake up with the scent of a freshly brewed cup.
What’s the Difference Between Drip and Pour-Over Coffee Makers?
Drip coffee makers remain among the most popular kitchen devices. In 2019, they were used by 45% of coffee drinkers in the US (4).
However, more and more people witch to automatic pour-over machines. To understand why that happens, we need to know the difference between these two types.
Now, the secret is in the water dispersion method. In pour-over machines, the water is typically distributed evenly all across the coffee grounds thanks to a special water hose design. This allows the grounds to “bloom”, or simply absorb the water and release the coffee oils that give your beverage its rich flavor.
In drip coffee makers, the water is dispersed straight into the filter basket. This often results in uneven saturation of the grounds. Such a dispersion method can sometimes make the basket overflow, which turns coffee brewing into a rather messy process.
Now, this doesn’t mean that you can’t get a good cup of coffee using a drip machine. However, for consistently good results, you will probably need to spend more than $200.
At the same time, drip coffee makers might be a good option for those who appreciate simplicity. This type doesn’t require much effort or adjustments on your part (like some of the good Keurig coffee makers). Moreover, some drip models come with integrated grinders. This allows users to enjoy a fully automatic, fuss-free bean-to-cup brewing process.
Read here – The Best Coffee Makers with a Grinder
How to Pick the Best Automatic Pour-Over Coffee Maker: Buyer’s Guide
No one wants to get stuck with a coffee machine they don’t like.
To avoid that and pick a suitable automatic pour-over coffee machine, consider the following characteristics:
- Water capacity. Consider how much coffee you typically drink (or how many people will use the new coffee maker). If you are a solo user who drinks only a couple of mugs per day, a single-serve machine should suffice. For a family of coffee drinkers, you may want to invest in a larger model (with at least an 8-cup capacity) or perhaps even one of the best coffee makers with a water line (which eliminates the need to constantly refill your machine). Keep in mind that most dual coffee makers have 2 water tanks, one for the carafe mode and one for the single-cup mode. This may come in handy if you appreciate versatility. There are also models in between, like these 4-cup coffee makers.
- Size and footprint. This aspect will depend on your kitchen. If you have limited counter space, you might want to invest in something compact and efficient, like these machines. Also, keep in mind that larger capacity models will have a bigger footprint and a bulkier appearance. They would look quite organic on a larger kitchen island or under high cabinets.
- Ease of cleaning. The rule of thumb here is: the more components and features your coffee machine has, the more challenging it will be to clean. If your automatic pour-over machine has removable parts, they might be dishwasher-safe, which will make cleaning much
easier. Manual models are the most low-maintenance options. - Glass or thermal carafe. Glass carafes are typically paired with a hotplate. While such a combo can keep your coffee warm for hours, it may also make your beverage taste burnt. If you choose a glass carafe model, you need to be attentive and not leave the hotplate on for too long. Now, a good thermal carafe coffee maker will keep your coffee warm without the hotplate. Consequently, it will not affect the coffee flavor. However, don’t expect your beverage to remain warm for more than 2 hours (on average).
- Temperature controls. If you are a more demanding user, you might want to adjust the brewing temperature to achieve the best flavor. The optimal temperature is considered to be between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit (5). If you want a model that could meet that requirement, you can check coffee makers that carry the SCAA seal of approval. In this post you can find coffee makers that support the optimal brewing temperature and show great performance.
- Functionality. More expensive coffee makers have pre-set brewing modes or support programmed automatic brewing. Some of the top-rated all-in-one coffee makers come with a milk frother for specialty beverages. So, if you are a fan of lattes or cappuccinos, you might want to consider such a handy accessory. Keep in mind that cheaper models are usually quite limited in terms of features, so if you don’t want something basic, you might have to invest a bit more.
- Carafe spout. This aspect is frequently overlooked by many shoppers, which later can cause disappointment. Why? Because they often end up buying a model with a poorly designed spout. In such cases, users typically experience spillage when pouring their beverage and have to clean up every single time they drink coffee. To avoid that, look for carafes that have a wide spout with an elongated point.
- Brew basket. It’s the section of the coffee maker that holds the filter (regardless of the filter type that you have, paper or reusable). There are two types of brew baskets you can come across when shopping: conical (more typical for pour-over machines) and flat-bottom (kind of like a cupcake shape, which is more common for regular drip coffee makers).
F.A.Q.
What should beginners know about pour-over coffee?
When using a pour-over coffee maker (manual or automatic), you need to ensure the proper water temperature and the suitable coffee + water ratio. Automatic machines typically support the optimal temperature on their own, so you should take care of the coffee grounds. Experts recommend a 1:17 coffee to water weight ratio.
Why is pour-over coffee better than drip coffee?
The pour-over method allows for a more even saturation of the grounds. This results in a smoother and richer tasting coffee.
How do you keep your coffee hot when doing a pour-over with a Melitta over-the-cup type filter?
You may try to preheat your coffee cup before brewing. You can rinse it with hot water or even fill it with boiling water and leave it there for around 20-30 seconds. Then pour the water out, place the Melitta on top, and start brewing.
What is the suitable grind size for an automatic pour-over coffee maker?
The best coarseness for an electric pour-over brewer is a medium grind. To give you a rough idea, it should feel like sand. Also, keep in mind that it’s always better to use freshly ground coffee, so you might want to invest in a good grinder too.
What are the best coffee beans for an automatic pour-over coffee machine?
For automatic pour-over brewers, you might want to use either medium or light roasts. In my experience, those work the best with this brewing method.
Conclusion
While manual pour-over coffee makers require time and effort, automatic models can make your life easier. Especially if you pick what’s right for you, according to your needs.
Keep in mind that there are plenty of options for every budget. However, if you want a programmable machine with extra features, you may have to spend around $200-300. Some models allow for temperature adjustments, which is great for those users who love experimenting with their beverages.
Now, if I had to recommend one automatic pour-over coffee maker, I would choose the Technivorm. This elegant, stylish machine can become a great addition to any kitchen. It works fast and maintains a suitable brewing temperature for the best flavor. Plus, it’s extremely easy to use. Both beginners and more experienced users are likely to enjoy beverages made by this coffee machine.
What made you search for an automatic pour-over coffee maker? And have you picked your personal favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!
References:
- Claire Lower (2020, May 20). What to Do if Your Coffee Tastes Sour. Retrieved from https://skillet.lifehacker.com/what-to-do-if-your-coffee-tastes-sour-1843567707
- Anna Brones (2014, September 15). 4 Reasons Your Coffee Tastes Bitter. Retrieved from https://www.thekitchn.com/4-reasons-your-coffee-tastes-bitter-208377
- Gabrielle Moss (2015, October 17). Here’s how much money you could save by making coffee at home. Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/heres-how-much-money-you-could-save-by-making-coffee-at-home-2015-10
- Emma Bedford (2020, January 23). Drip coffee maker usage among past day coffee drinkers in the United States from 2010 to 2019. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/457447/drip-coffee-maker-usage-coffee-drinkers-united-states/
- National Coffee Association (n.d.). How to Brew Coffee. Retrieved from https://www.ncausa.org/About-Coffee/How-to-Brew-Coffee
My name is Yurii Brown. I am a passionate coffee geek and, concurrently, a certified coffee specialist.
I’ve been learning about coffee for a long time, testing various devices and practicing in home coffee brewing. I like to share my experience and insights with fellow coffee lovers so that my readers could enjoy the real taste of quality-brewed beverages.
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