6 Best 5 Cup Coffee Makers — Your Ideal Capacity in a Compact Design!

By
Samanta Fryer
Samanta Fryer
Writer
Samanta Fryer is our senior editor and content writer, at CoffeeVibe. Apart from writing and reading, she’s fond of the coffee brewing process and enjoys tasting new coffe read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Ryan Hendricks
Ryan Hendricks
Expert
Ryan Hendricks is our tester, who puts products through their paces. He used to be a barista and is now a full-time coffee enthusiast. He’s always testing out new gadgets, read more
Last updated: September 15, 2023
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  • Aug 30, 2023: The review was published.
  • Sep 15, 2023: We reconsidered the ranking and moved the Zojirushi Zutto Coffee Maker EC-DAC50 to position no. 2.
  • Sep 15, 2023: The YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker was discontinued/became unavailable for purchase, so we moved it to position no. 3.
  • Sep 15, 2023: We reconsidered the ranking and moved the Bonavita 5 Cup Coffee Maker to position no. 3.
  • Sep 15, 2023: The YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker was discontinued/became unavailable for purchase, so we moved it to position no. 4.
  • Sep 15, 2023: The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Mini was discontinued/became unavailable for purchase, so we moved it to position no. 6.

Java. Joe. Nature’s wakeup. Whatever you call it, we can all agree that coffee is a necessity for many people. Between late nights and early mornings, that hit of caffeine is sometimes all that sustains us through the day. Sure, you could purchase a smallesized coffee maker, but really, you’d just be teasing yourself. Five-cup models allow you to make enough coffee, and still be able to go back for one more.

While doing research for this article, we’ve tested multiple dozens of different coffee makers  to make the list of the best 5 cup coffee makers. Besides the obvious part, which is an ability to make 5 cups of good coffee, there were a lot of things to consider. Some people prefer cutting-edge technologies, while others might want something more classic, so we’ve included both programmable and non-programmable models. There also could be some handy features such as auto shut-off, a removable water tank, or an LCD display. The [first_prouct] became our Editor’s Choice.

Quick Summary

  • "A stylish, durable, and functional coffee machine from a reliable manufacturer will provide you with freshly brewed, rich-flavored coffee on demand"
  • Most Compact Coffee Maker: Zojirushi Zutto Coffee Maker EC-DAC50
    "This 5-cup coffee maker won’t tale up too much space on your countertop, but will do its job superbly; comes with a charcoal water filter for better taste"
  • Best Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe: Bonavita 5 Cup Coffee Maker
    "This coffee machine will keep your drink warm for a really long time thanks to the thermal carafe; has a dishwasher safe carafe lid, filter basket, and showerhead"
  • Most Unusual Design: YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker
    "Looking like it has been stolen from an alchemist lab, this model is not only a masterpiece on its own, but also an effective way to make a great coffee drink exactly as you like it"
  • "This unit won’t cost you a fortune, yet will provide you with a durable construction, sleek design, and a Keep-Warm function so that you can enjoy a cup of coffee for long"
  • Best 5 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker: Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Mini
    "A high-end model which can be programmed to make your favorite drink at an exact time to save your efforts in the morning"

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4323 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.7
Features
  • Carafe: glass
  • Programmable: no
  • Dimensions: 10.75 x 8.2 x 7.25 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: permanent grounds filter; Sneak-a-Cup option

When it comes to quality, you can’t go wrong with BLACK+DECKER. This 5-cup drip coffee maker is at its finest. From the ergonomic handle which is comfortable to hold, to the carafe itself which promises drip-free pouring, the design is excellent.

This is not a massively sized drip coffee machine, so if you need a boost of caffeine in your dorm room or RV, the BLACK+DECKER 5-cup coffeemaker is the right product for you.

Other features include the ability to stop mid-drip to pour yourself a cup of java. No more waiting in agony to finally stop coffee brewing.

There is also a permanent filter. That’s right – no need to purchase filters that just end up in the garbage. Instead, use the reusable coffee filter for all your needs. Just give it a quick clean, and it’s ready for the next pot.

If you get confused by the plethora of buttons on more elaborate drip coffee makers, then this is definitely for you. Simply turn the coffee machine on. Just one button and you’re good to go. The button even has a light on it. So, if you’re stumbling around very early in the morning, check for the light to make sure your coffee is being brewed to perfection.

For those looking for more elaborate features, you will have to look elsewhere. However, the BLACK+DECKER CM0700BZ does have a very affordable price, which might just be the feature you’re looking for.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Very affordable
  • Easy to use on/off switch
  • Includes a reusable filter
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Not a lot of other coffee options

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7134 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.5
2
Most Compact Coffee Maker

Zojirushi Zutto Coffee Maker EC-DAC50

Features
  • Carafe: glass
  • Programmable: no
  • Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.9 x 6 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: charcoal water filter; removable water tank

Coffee makers have a lot of parts. There’s the water tank, the carafe, and the filter area. But what if you can eliminate one of these parts? The result is a space-saving design that is efficient and practical.

The Zojirushi EC-DAC50 has placed the filter cone inside the decanter carafe. The results is a small coffee maker that is also very easy to use. The water tank is also compact and actually quite hidden. In fact, at first glance, you might just wonder where it is. When it comes to space, the Zojirushi EC-DAC50 ensures that nothing is waster.

This is one of the best 5-cup cone coffee makers on the market. It has a unique charcoal water filter that purifies your water as you use it. And, the filter will last for up to two years. This is quite impressive.

If you like to sneak a cup of coffee every once in a while and are worried about your coffee becoming cold, you can rejoice. There is a simple “Keep Warm” button on this coffee maker. Simply press the button, and it will keep your coffee hot whenever you go back for another cup.

The brand, Zojirushi, might not be familiar, but it has actually been in existence for over 100 years. Its philosophy is to bring comfort and ease to its comfort. The company is not content with manufacturing the same product over and over again. Their innovation is clearly seen here.

    What makes it special?
  • Easy to use buttons
  • Keep hot option
  • Reusable charcoal water filter
    What cons did we find?
  • Pricier than other similar products
Also Product Ranking:

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7588 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
3
Best Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe

Bonavita 5 Cup Coffee Maker

Features
  • Carafe: thermal
  • Programmable: no
  • Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.9 x 6 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: requires paper cone filters; dishwasher safe carafe lid, filter basket, and showerhead

Tired of having your coffee warm? If you’re a slow coffee drinker, or just prefer your coffee hot at all times, then you will want to check out the Bonavita BV1500TS. While most coffee machines have lass carafes which can quickly lose their heat, this product is a coffee maker with stainless steel carafe. The result is hot coffee insulated to perfection.

In fact, the 1,100-watt heater ensures that your coffee will remain at an optimal brewing temperature, between 91 degrees and 96 degrees Fahrenheit.

While the Bonavita BV1500TS isn’t programmable, it does have a lot of options. You can choose to have the coffee be pre-infused. This means the roasted ground coffee is saturated and degassed before brewing, leading to a much more robust taste.

If you’re short on time in the morning, then this is the perfect option for you. In just six minutes, you can have all the coffee you need. There’s also an automatic shut off feature, just in case you leave the house in a hurry.

One other really nice feature of this Bonavita coffee maker is that the carafe lid, filter basket, and coffee spout are all dishwasher safe. The carafe itself will need to be hand-washed, but being able to place the other items in the dishwasher will cut down on your cleaning time.

The only downside with a thermal pot is that it seems impossible to get the last few drops out. This isn’t a deal-breaker and more of an annoyance.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Thermal stainless steel nicely insulates coffee
  • Automatic shut-off
  • Parts are dishwasher safe
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Always leaves a few drops in the carafe
Also Product Ranking:

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7785 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.1
4
Most Unusual Design

YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker

Features
  • Carafe: hand-blown borosilicate glass
  • Programmable: no
  • Dimensions: 14 x 4 x 4 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: includes reusable, washable cloth filters

We get it. You want your kitchen to have both form and function. So what better way to achieve this than with the YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker. If you’re tired of the same old boring coffee machines, then this product belongs on your must-have list!

With both a glass water basin and a glass carafe, the design is something like an hourglass. Even the handle is beautifully finished and ornate.

Now, before you get too excited, be aware that the YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker is a tad complicated. The energy source is not electricity as is usual, but rather an open flame. That’s right: you need to light the burner below the carafe to brew coffee. There are included instructions and online videos to help you out if things get a bit too confusing.

The YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker is a futuristic product, so it makes sense that its filters are for the future, as well. Your purchase comes with one washable cloth filter, and more are available for purchase if need be. These filters are reusable and machine washable.

As for the construction of the coffee maker, the glass is hand blown. It is completely non-porous so it won’t absorb any odors or chemicals. All you’ll taste is delicious coffee.

Now, that final thing to understand about the YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker is that it is a tad expensive. Comfortably shouldn’t come as a shock, given the high-end construction and unique attributes. However, if you’re on a budget, or simply don’t need an extravagant purchase, this item may not be for you.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Looks beautiful
  • Quality craftsmanship
  • Provides you with full control
  • Includes a reusable cloth filter
    What could be better?
  • Somewhat confusing to operate
  • Rather pricey

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7581 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.9
Features
  • Carafe: glass
  • Programmable: no
  • Dimensions: 10.5 x 7.9 x 7.5 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: not dishwasher safe carafe; Keep-Warm function

No, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to find the best 5-cup coffee maker. Instead, you can purchase the Amazon Basics 5 Cup Coffee Maker which is extremely adequate and budget-friendly.

While Amazon is most known as an online marketplace, it has also created its own line of products, including this coffee pot. It is able to brew five cups of coffee, which equals 27 ounces.

A really nice feature of the AmazonBasics 5 Cup Coffee Maker is the fact that you can pour a cup of coffee mid-brew. No longer do you have to wait in agony for the coffee maker to stop. Instead, simply pick up the carafe and the machine will automatically stop until it has been replaced.

Because this product is budget-friendly, it does not have as many bells and whistles of other similar items. The carafe is hand wash only, which means a bit more time and energy on your part. There is also no programmable feature. In fact, there aren’t many options: there’s simply an on/off button.

However, there is one nice eco feature, which is the inclusion of a reusable filter. You don’t need to remember to buy and replace your filter. Instead, give it a rinse. This saves you money and helps cut down on unnecessary waste.

    What stands out?
  • Reusable filter
  • Able to stop mid-pour
  • Very budget-friendly
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • The carafe is handwash only

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3678 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.7
6
Best 5 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker

Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Mini

Features
  • Carafe: glass
  • Programmable: yes
  • Dimensions: 9.65 x 10.63 x 7.1 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: 2-hour auto shut-off; dual water level window

The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Mini is the only programmable drip coffee maker on our list, and as such is a bold temptation for those who are definitely not morning people. If you have the choice between pushing a few buttons at night to ensure fresh coffee, right as you wake up, or staring bleary-eyed at a slowly dripping machine, which would you choose?

In addition to the programmable feature, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini drip coffee maker also features a two-hour automatic shut-off. Again, if you don’t like to do mornings, it can be hard to remember everything. Thankfully, with this feature, your coffee maker is one last thing to worry about.

However, it is a smaller coffee pot than others on the list, and not everyone likes the size of the buttons. If you’re worried about having to drink a cold cup of coffee, this product might not be for you.

Yet another nice feature is the pause ability. You can pour yourself a cup of joe without worrying about spillage. Simply remove the carafe, and the machine will stop any drips. Once the carafe has been replaced, your coffee process will resume.

The filter basket does need to have paper filters, but it is easy to remove, and cleanup is a snap. The water basin has a window that allows you to watch as you fill it up. There’s no worry about any overflows.

    Why is it special?
  • Easy to fill water basin
  • Programmable options
  • Easy to use controls
    What are the flaws?
  • Small buttons


Things to Consider

Need a bit more information before you purchase the best 5 cup coffee maker? These are the essential features to consider and will help you understand just which product is best suited to your needs.

Who will appreciate a 5-cup coffee machine?

For those that either like freshly brewed coffee, or who live with another person who shares their coffee love, a 5-cup drip coffee maker is best. Larger, 10-cup coffee makers can take up too much valuable counter real estate. And single-use coffee makers are too small, and not always good for the environment. 5-cup capacity is a nice, moderate amount that should satisfy everyone’s caffeine needs and provide enough coffee at a time.

Features to consider while choosing a 5-cup coffee maker

6 Best 5 Cup Coffee Makers — Your Ideal Capacity in a Compact Design!There are many features to consider when purchasing a five cup coffee maker and finding the best coffee maker isn’t that easy. We’ve rounded up the most important features and their explanations.

Thermal or glass carafe?

Most coffee maker carafes are made from glass. The exception on our list is the Bonavita BV1500TS which is a 5 cup coffee maker with thermal steel construction. Glass allows the coffee to bloom and has a nice aesthetic but does not hold heat in very well. If you’re someone who slowly drinks their coffee, you might want to re-think the traditional glass carafe. While the steel pot of coffee will undoubtedly keep your coffee warm, too much direct heat can make the coffee taste stale after a while. When brewed in a glass carafe, you’ll enjoy your coffee without any strange taste.

If it’s programmable

When you wake up, do you instantly go to make coffee? Or do you take your time getting ready, having a shower first, and slowly ease into your day? Whichever is your preference will determine if you want a programmable coffee maker or not.

For those who are not morning people, a programmable feature allows you to set the coffee maker up at night. Simply select what time you want it to start working in the morning, and you can hop right out of bed and grab a cup of java in mere seconds. On our list of top rated 5 cup coffee makers, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Mini is programmable.

Auto shut-off

6 Best 5 Cup Coffee Makers — Your Ideal Capacity in a Compact Design!Worried about forgetting your car keys in the morning, let alone turning off the coffee maker? An auto shut-off feature is fairly standard nowadays. Usually, two to four hours after the coffee has been brewed, the machine will automatically turn off. No more worrying about this potential fire hazard while you’re at work.

Dimensions

Coffee makers belong on your countertop. As such, they should be as compact as possible, especially if you have a smaller kitchen. The average 5-cup coffee maker is about 11 inches x 8 inches at its base. As for height, the average is 10 inches. If you are placing your coffee machine under a cabinet, then pay close attention to height, to make sure it fits.

Warranty

Want your coffee maker to last a while? Be sure to consider the warranty. All models on our list of the best machines have one or two-year warranties. This is pretty standard for a product like a coffee maker. As always, pay attention to when your warranty is up. If there are any issues, deal with them before it is too late.

More features

6 Best 5 Cup Coffee Makers — Your Ideal Capacity in a Compact Design!Really, there are no limits as to how fancy a 5 cup drip coffee maker can be. While some people are perfectly happy with a traditional coffee pot, more and more customers are looking for something a bit fancier, or at least multiple options.

A handy extra feature of a 5-cup coffee maker can include an LCD display. This allows you to easily select your coffee preferences and program your early morning wakeup. A removable water tank makes filling your water so much easier. And a water level indicator lets you know just how much water will translate into one cup.

Many coffee makers even go so far as to include filters or even have removable washable ones. The choices are endless. If you have something special in mind, chances are you can find it.

How to clean your 5-cup coffee maker

  • Rinse your carafe daily.
  • Give the carafe a good clean weekly: simply mix 2 parts warm water with 1 part vinegar. With a cloth, give the carafe a good cleaning. This will remove any coffee stains and also disinfect it.
  • For the machine as a whole, use a basic cleaning solution and gently remove any coffee grinds.

FAQ

Which is better – a permanent filter or a reusable one?

Worried about the environment? One of the easiest changes you can make at home is by using a coffee maker with a permanent filter. Gone are the days of having to purchase separate filters and toss them after each use. Instead, a permanent filter can be washed and reused, cutting down on waste.

What are the benefits of a 5 cup drip coffee maker?

A 5 cup drip coffee maker is ideal for those who enjoy having a few cups of coffee throughout the day. With its lesser capacity, it allows the user to make fresh coffee more often, ensuring that each cup is as taste-worthy as your very first cup. Some models also feature a glass carafe to preserve the taste.

How long will my coffee remain hot?

In essence, your coffee will remain hot until either you turn off the machine or the automatic shut off kicks in. Check to see what the automatic shut off is. If it’s shorter than what it takes for you to comfortably enjoy your coffee, then you may need fiddle with the controls. If, however, you have a thermal carafe, then your coffee will stay hot for a lot longer than with a glass carafe.

What should an avid coffee lover consider when purchasing a 5 cup coffee maker?

An avid coffee lover should consider several aspects when purchasing a 5 cup coffee maker. These include the type of coffee grounds it uses, the brewing time, the ease of cleaning, the quality of the coffee pot or carafe, and how much coffee it can hold at one time. Also consider added features such as auto shut-off, brewing strength selection, and a built-in grinder for fresh coffee beans.

Should I wait for the brewing process to finish if I need my cup of coffee here and now?

The answer to this question depends on if you like spills, and if your coffee maker as a stop function. Perhaps you’re skilled at deftly placing a waiting cup under the drip for a quick pour. If not, and you’re worried about spills, then it’s best just to wait for the brewing process to finish. Some coffee makers come with a pause button, but most don’t.

Is a 5 cup coffee maker the perfect fit for my small family?

Yes, a 5 cup coffee maker gives an opportunity to brew just enough coffee for a small family or for those who drink coffee occasionally. This coffee maker is a great option for individuals as it prevents waste and ensures every cup of coffee is freshly brewed.

 

Our verdict

Looking for the best 5 cup coffee maker? We’ve got a few best options for you. The best 5-cup drip coffee maker is basic but well-built. The BLACK+DECKER CM0700BZ coffee maker is the perfect option that works well, has an impressive reusable filter, and is quite affordable.

If you’re looking for a coffee machine that is a bit fancier, the YAMA Siphon Gravity Coffee Maker is the best looking 5-cup coffee maker on our list. Its creative glass design, innovative burner, and overall attention to detail make it a product that will be a focal point of your kitchen.

Finally, if space isn’t high on your list of kitchen attributes, check out the Zojirushi EC-DAC50. This innovative design is perfect for those looking for a stylish coffee maker and also one that can be tucked into any corner.

No matter which product you choose, we hope that the search for the best 5 cup coffee maker will result in a delicious cup of coffee.

9,7
Total Score
BLACK and DECKER 5 Cup Coffee Machine - Editor’s Choice
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