Which makes better coffee for a household of two?

The PerfecTemp, because its 1–4 cup setting avoids brewing a full pot for two people. The 12-Cup brews a 12-cup batch with no small-batch option.

Is the PerfecTemp worth $23 more?

Yes if you want 14 cups, bold strength, or small batches. At $36.99 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, the 12-Cup is the better value for basic drip brewing.

Both are Cuisinart drip makers with glass carafes and self-cleaning cycles. The 12-Cup carries a stated 3-year limited warranty; the PerfecTemp listing gives no warranty term, so check before buying.

Do both include a water filter?

The 12-Cup includes a charcoal water filter and a gold-tone filter. The PerfecTemp lists both, but buyers report the charcoal filter must be purchased separately.

Which is better for a large family or office?

The PerfecTemp, with 14 cups and up to 4 hours of auto-off. The 12-Cup tops out at 12 cups and 2 hours.

Which is easier to fit on a counter?

The 12-Cup. The PerfecTemp measures 7.75"L x 9"W x 14"H and weighs 12.79 lb, and buyers call it big for the counter.

Cuisinart Stainless Steel 12-Cup Coffee Maker vs Cuisinart PerfecTemp 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker

Buy the PerfecTemp 14-Cup if you brew for a crowd or want a bold-strength option and a small-batch setting. Buy the 12-Cup DCC-1220 if you want to spend less and need only 12 cups. The gap is real right now: $36.99 at eBay for the 12-Cup versus $60.00 at eBay for the PerfecTemp, both as of November 4, 2026. The PerfecTemp's price history is thin, so its $60 may not last.

Today the Cuisinart PerfecTemp 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker costs $9.95 less at its best price.

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