Best cheap coffee machines

Top pick: Black+Decker 12-Cup Thermal Programmable Coffeemaker — the cheapest way to get a big pot, a thermal carafe that keeps coffee hot without a hotplate scorching it, and a timer so it's ready when you wake up. Thousands of ratings back it up.

Who the others suit:

• Zojirushi ZUTTO — small households; 5 cups, simple, and the best-rated of the budget bunch.
• Cuisinart PerfecTemp 14-Cup — big families and bold-coffee drinkers; strength control and a 24-hour timer.
• OXO Brew 8-Cup — anyone who wants one machine for a pot and a single mug.
• Bonavita Connoisseur / Moccamaster — if you'd rather spend once on brew quality than replace a cheap pot.