Which makes better coffee, the Presto or the Cuisinart?

Both are percolators, which cycle hot water through the grounds repeatedly, so flavor is similar and depends on grind and timing. The Cuisinart lets you adjust brew time and temperature, which gives you more control; the Presto runs one fixed cycle.

Is the Cuisinart PRC-12N worth the extra $15?

Only if you want adjustable brew settings, a dishwasher-safe body and a detachable cord. At $75.26 versus $89.98 at Amazon as of November 6, 2026, the Presto covers basic percolating for less.

Which is easier to clean?

The Cuisinart PRC-12N is dishwasher safe. The Presto 02811 is not, so you wash it by hand.

Can either brew a small batch?

The Presto brews 2 to 12 cups, so small batches are fine. The Cuisinart starts at 6 cups, so it suits larger pots.

Which keeps coffee warm?

The Presto has automatic keep-warm with a signal light. Cuisinart lists a stay-cool bottom but no keep-warm feature, so check before relying on it.

Which is smaller on the counter?

The Cuisinart is compact at 8.06 x 5.85 x 12.1 in. The Presto's shipping box measures 32.8 cm tall and 24.3 cm wide, so it takes more space.

Presto 02811 Stainless Steel Percolator vs Cuisinart PRC-12N Percolator

Both are 12-cup stainless steel electric percolators, so the choice comes down to price and controls. The Presto 02811 is the better value at $75.26 at Amazon as of November 6, 2026, versus $89.98 at Amazon for the Cuisinart PRC-12N. Buy the Presto for simple, fast, cheap percolating; pay about $15 more for the Cuisinart only if you want adjustable brew time and temperature and a dishwasher-safe body.

Today the Presto 02811 Stainless Steel Percolator costs $14.72 less at its best price.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.