For many, the day doesn't start right without getting that warm cup of coffee, and while some are partial to visiting the local Starbucks, those on the go still prefer to get their caffeine fix at home.

If you prefer homemade coffee, then you have many options from which to choose. Whether you prefer regular drip coffee, a french press, or you stick to pods and K-cups, there are many highly-rated coffee machines that are equipped with the bells and whistles and brewing power to create that perfect cup. Below are the many varieties of coffee machines and the best of the year thus far.

A Variety of Coffee Maker Styles

When it comes to coffee makers, there is no one-size-fits-all. There are several categories of coffee makers and many attractive models within those categories. For customers who are making their first foray into home coffee production or are looking to drink coffee differently, it is important to look at each type of coffee machine and choose one with the features that set apart the good from the great.

Drip Coffee Makers

The drip model of coffee maker is typically for those looking for a good cup of Joe without all the extra frills. This variety often only requires coffee, a filter, and hot water to get the desired results. These are typically the least expensive, and due to the amount of coffee they can make in one sitting, they are popular in offices and households.

Necessary Features

Large Serving Capacity - If you drink a lot of coffee or this is for an office with many employees, then find a machine that is labeled to make up to 10-12 cups at a time.

High Brewing Temperature - The ideal temperature for brewing coffee is between 196°F to 205°F, so look at the specs to ensure the machine stays within this range.

Automatic Shut-off - While you can typically set the number of cups, it is important to have an auto shut-off feature, so you aren’t worried about overflowing fluid.

Programmable - Those who have a lot to do in the morning should look for a programmable machine that can make the coffee at a predetermined time every day. 

French Press Coffee Makers

People who have a love for the taste of coffee and want more control over how it tastes may want to look into a french press, which uses immersion brewing to steep the coffee grounds in hot water for several minutes for a richer flavor. French press models are also affordable and often quite in appearance, making a nice addition to a modern kitchen.

Necessary Features

Stainless Steel - While many french press machines have the option of coming in glass or steel, those who take their coffee maker on the go should choose stainless steel, which is harder to break and retains heat better.

Cup Capacity - Just like with the drip coffee maker, you will want to proactively think about the size of the machine you need and how many cups of coffee it can make at once. For large families or heavy coffee drinkers, look for a 12-cup press.

Nespresso Coffee Makers

Many people choose to visit a coffee shop because they can get the espressos and cappuccinos that get them ready for a busy day, and with a Nespresso machine, you can get just that in the comfort of your home. These machines typically use coffee capsules to make a predetermined amount of coffee and they come in numerous flavors. 

Necessary Features

Nespresso is not only the type of coffee machine, but it is also the manufacturer. This is a highly-rated company, so most machines will produce good coffee. However, when you purchase, look at cup size and the types of pods it can use to see if any of them look good enough to make the purchase of a french press worthwhile.

Keurig Coffee Makers

Keurig coffee makers are known for making quick coffee with their variety of K-cups. These are single-serve brewing systems that allow you to have a cup of coffee in a matter of minutes. The models do take some maintenance in the form of descaling and refiling the water cavity, but they are relatively simple machines that you can start at a moment's notice. What’s best is the variety, as there are hundreds of Keurig cups available both for caffeine lovers and non-coffee drinkers alike.

Necessary Features

Coffee Settings - Along with the other types of coffee makers, you want to find a Keurig that has settings to manage coffee strength and the number of cups you want to brew.

Cup or Pot - Some new Keurig models offer an option to either make a single cup of coffee with a K-cup or a 12 cup pot of coffee. Look for a model that does both if necessary.

Quiet Brew Technology - This setting will eliminate the sounds that coffee machines make to produce their product. If you make coffee early in the morning, then find a model with this setting.

Programmable Settings - Many Keurigs come with a setting to prepare coffee at a certain time of the day. This is a preferable setting for coffee drinkers with tight schedules.