The best programmable filter coffee makers in the UK 2023

Would you love to be woken up by the pleasant smell of coffee tickling your nostrils? Nothing could be easier: treat yourself to a programmable filter coffee maker. With the timer function, you can set the coffee machine to run on a delay and prepare your cup at a specific time. And if you don't know which model to choose, our selection of the best programmable filter coffee makers could certainly help you.

Riviera et Bar BCF560
9/10

Editor's Choice

Riviera and Bar BCF560

The best programmable filter coffee maker in 2021

The Riviera & Bar BCF560 is not just a beautiful coffee maker with an elegant and refined design and finish. It's also a very practical and efficient way to brew your delicious cups of coffee every day.

95,92 £ on Maxicoffee

The Riviera et Bar BCF560 will decorate your kitchen or bar. Its satin stainless steel front gives it a modern and refined look. It will not be there just for decoration. This programmable filter coffee machine will be your best companion in preparing your cups of coffee in the morning and throughout the day. Choose from mild or strong coffee using the flavor selector and multi-outlet spray. With just a few clicks, you'll be brewing coffee the way you like it.

The Riviera & Bar BCF560's filter holder is removable. You can remove it to wash it and prevent it from affecting the taste of your coffee. Its 1.5L capacity tank can brew up to 10 large cups or 15 small cups of coffee at one time. Set the timer to delay your coffee brewing for up to 24 hours. The ready coffee will be kept warm for 30 minutes. The coffee pot is insulated and will prevent you from getting burned while serving.

Melitta Optima Timer noire
7/10

Best cheapest

Melitta Optima Timer black

The best entry-level programmable filter coffee maker

The black Melitta Optima Timer prepares your cups of coffee in advance. When you wake up, the delicious, full-flavored coffee will be hot and ready to enjoy. The coffee machine comes with its glass jug and five ready-to-use coffee filters.

40,72 £ on Maxicoffee

Program your coffee time in advance with the black Melitta Optima Timer. When the time comes, the machine will automatically start making your favorite drink. In a few minutes, it will be ready. The time during which the coffee is kept warm is also programmable up to two hours. After 120 minutes, the device will automatically turn off. This filter coffee maker will produce up to 8 cups of 152 ml or 12 cups of 85 ml in one brew. It is perfect for large families.

Upon purchase, the Melitta Optima Timer Black comes with five removable coffee filters. So you can start using it straight away. The tank is also removable. This makes it easier to fill and easier to wash. This programmable filter coffee maker has an intelligent descaling system. This system detects the hardness of the water in your area and adapts the decalcification frequency to it. This will make your coffee machine last longer.

Sage The Precision Brewer thermal
9/10

Best high end

Sage The Precision Brewer thermal

The best high-end programmable filter coffee maker

The Sage The Precision Brewer thermal is the programmable filter coffee maker capable of brewing your cups the way you like them. The many features make it quick and easy to customize the taste of your coffee.

240 £ on Maxicoffee

The Sage The Precision Brewer thermal offers five pre-set programs. Choose the program that suits you (fast, gold, strong, for over, cold brew), the coffee machine will do the rest. You can also prepare your own personalized recipe. To do this, the machine offers a host of precise settings. You can control the duration and quantity of the pre-brew, the water temperature and the flow speed.

To enhance the taste of your coffee, the Sage The Precision Brewer thermal features a Thermocoil heating system that is better than ordinary aluminum systems. The temperature is controlled digitally for greater accuracy. A timer will help you set the time to brew the drink with a simple rotary knob. This filter coffee maker comes with two filter baskets to choose from depending on the desired length of your coffee.

Smeg DCF02PGEU
8/10

Excellent choice

Smeg DCF02PGEU

The mid-range alternative

The Smeg DCF02PGEU is all about simplicity. This filter coffee maker offers basic features that will allow you to brew great tasting cups of coffee every day. Its permanent filter will save you extra expense throughout its use.

159 £ on Maxicoffee

Thanks to its 1.4 liter tank, the Smeg DCF02PGEU is capable of preparing between 10 and 15 cups of coffee in one go. Its programmable timer gives you the possibility to choose the time of coffee preparation. When the drink is ready, it will automatically be kept warm for 20 minutes. Of course, you can prepare smaller quantities without changing the taste of the drink. The taste of your coffee is fully customizable thanks to the aroma function that can be activated with a simple button.

The control panel of the Smeg DCF02PGEU is very simple and intuitive. You'll have no trouble setting up the machine according to your desires and needs. This coffee machine is equipped with a permanent filter. It is therefore no longer necessary to change the filter regularly, which will save you extra expenses. You will appreciate the vintage and colorful look of the Smeg DCF02PGEU. It will decorate your kitchen nicely in addition to making delicious cups of coffee.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best programmable filter coffee maker

Any specific needs?

The best programmable filter coffee maker in 2021

The best entry-level programmable filter coffee maker

The best high-end programmable filter coffee maker

The mid-range alternative

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best programmable filter coffee makers

THE BEST CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Riviera et Bar BCF560
9/10
Melitta Optima Timer noire
7/10
Sage The Precision Brewer thermal
9/10
Smeg DCF02PGEU
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Riviera and Bar BCF560
Melitta Optima Timer black
Sage The Precision Brewer thermal
Smeg DCF02PGEU
The Riviera & Bar BCF560 is not just a beautiful coffee maker with an elegant and refined design and finish. It's also a very practical and efficient way to brew your delicious cups of coffee every day.
The black Melitta Optima Timer prepares your cups of coffee in advance. When you wake up, the delicious, full-flavored coffee will be hot and ready to enjoy. The coffee machine comes with its glass jug and five ready-to-use coffee filters.
The Sage The Precision Brewer thermal is the programmable filter coffee maker capable of brewing your cups the way you like them. The many features make it quick and easy to customize the taste of your coffee.
The Smeg DCF02PGEU is all about simplicity. This filter coffee maker offers basic features that will allow you to brew great tasting cups of coffee every day. Its permanent filter will save you extra expense throughout its use.
Capacity
10-15 cups
8-12 cups
12-18 cups
10-15 cups
Warming system
Isotherm
Mono-heater
Isothermal
Mono-heater
Water tank capacity
1.25 L
1.25 L
1.7 L
1.4 L
Material
ABS, stainless steel
Glass pourer, ABS handle
Inox
ABS, stainless steel
Power
950 W
850 W
1650 W
1050 W

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Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - programmable filter coffee maker

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How to choose your programmable filter coffee maker

A programmable filter coffee maker is both convenient and very easy to find. However, you shouldn't just rely on the delayed start option to find the right model. There are other selection criteria to consider as well, the most important of which are
choisir cafetière à filtre programmable

#1 - The power

This criterion defines the operating speed of your programmable filter coffee machine. The more powerful it is, the better it will perform. The water will be able to heat up and run over your ground coffee quickly. You will save time in preparation while saving energy. To be able to concoct a good cup of coffee in a few minutes, prefer a model whose power is around 1000 W.

#2 - The water tank capacity

The capacity of your future programmable filter coffee maker depends on your needs. Sure, a 2L capacity coffee pot would definitely be convenient, but it would be a waste if you're the only one drinking coffee. If you live alone or as a couple, a capacity of about 500 ml will be more than enough. On the other hand, go for models withat least 1 L if there are several of you who want their delicious cup of coffee every morning.

#3 - The materials

The best programmable filter coffee maker will have the capacity to accompany you for many years. That's why it's imperative to check its manufacturing materials before purchase. To ensure that your coffee maker is strong and sturdy, look for models with brushed steel, stainless steel or ABS plastic bodies. They are resistant to shocks and possible scratches.

#4 - The filter

The type of filter chosen will impact the ease of use of the programmable filter coffee maker. There are indeed 2 categories of filters, namely the paper filter and the permanent filter. The first one will be ultra practical. It is a single-use filter and will be immediately thrown away after each preparation. You should still buy a whole set if you drink coffee frequently. On the other hand, the permanent filter, made of nylon or metal, will be usable in the long term. It will save you money, but requires regular maintenance.

#5 - The interesting features

Besides the programmable or delayed start function (up to 24 hours in advance), the programmable filter coffee maker also has many interesting features such as:

  • Keeping warm : this can be an insulated jug or a single resistance heating plate. Thanks to this option, the appliance keeps your drink warm for a specific time. It varies from 20 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Automatic shut-off : the machine systematically shuts off after a certain period of time (2 hours maximum) in order to avoid excessive energy consumption or coffee cooking.
  • Anti-drip system : this function stops the flow of coffee as soon as you remove the coffee pot from the tray.
  • Automatic descaling : an indicator alerts you when it's time for a thorough cleaning of your machine. This will extend the life of the machine and preserve all the coffee aromas.
  • The digital display : the programming of the delayed start cannot be done without the presence of a display screen.
  • The aroma booster technology : this is reflected in the presence of a water spray and an electronic aroma selector.
  • Built-in grinder : A built-in grinder will appeal to those who like the authentic taste and flavor of freshly ground coffee. The capacity of the bean container varies from model to model. You can choose the grind size according to the desired taste strength.

How to use a programmable filter coffee maker?

avis cafetière à filtre programmable

There is nothing complicated about using a programmable filter coffee maker. You just need to understand how it works in order to get the most out of it.

How to use it

First of all, remember to prepare the water and the grind the day before, before starting the timer. This is especially recommended if you have a programmable filter coffee maker with grinder. You will wake up more gently, with less of the shrill noise of the machine grinding the coffee beans. Then program the start of extraction so that your drink is ready about 5 minutes before you wake up. Depending on how long the machine is kept warm, you will still have time to take a bath and get ready for work.

Controlling the coffee machine will be simplified by the digital display screen. Thanks to this dial, you will have precise information on your current preparation. It also allows you to program a delayed start at the time you want. You can also choose how long you want to keep it warm after extraction.

In case your machine includes an automatic descaling system, you will be able to appreciate the level of scaling via this same screen, or even to adjust the water hardness. Moreover, a light or sound indicator will be there to inform you of the cleaning needs.

Maintenance

Like all coffee machines(portable, pod, cappuccino...), the programmable filter coffee maker is not immune to scaling. Thanks to the ingenious design of the brewing system, you can use white vinegar to get rid of it.

To do this, mix 1 part vinegar with 2 parts water and pour it into the water tank of the machine. Start 2 brewing cycles without the coffee grinds. Finish the process by rinsing twice with clean water. It is preferable to use bottled water or purified water if the tap water is very hard. Also clean the filter holder and the coffee pot.

The different types of programmable filter coffee makers

Currently, we can distinguish programmable filter coffee machines according to their type of filter: paper or permanent. Note that this element will play an important role on the taste and intensity of your morning coffee.

Programmable filter coffee maker with paper filter

cafetière à filtre programmable avec filtre en papier

Paper filters or disposable filters differ in size, shape, strength and capacity. They are usually made of brown plant-based paper fibers with a fairly fine mesh or white paper. This type of filter comes in several sizes depending on the number of cups you wish to prepare:

  • Size 1 : for one cup
  • Size 2 : for 2 to 6 cups
  • Size 4 : for 8 to 12 cups
  • Size 6 : for 10 to 15 cups

Advantages: No more cleaning chores. Once your cups are ready, simply throw the filter in the trash. The drink is "cleaner" because there is no deposit at the bottom of your cup. Fine particles and oil are perfectly filtered out. In addition, some paper filters are recyclable. That's a good thing for the environment.

Disadvantages: You may get a paper mache taste in your mouth unless you rinse the filter before extraction. The biggest disadvantage of this type of model is that you have to buy paper filters on a regular basis, an additional expense that will become burdensome in the long run.

Who is it for? The programmable filter coffee maker using paper filter can meet your expectations if you like to drink crystal clear coffee. The filter being efficient, no deposit will be at the bottom of your cup.

Programmable filter coffee maker with permanent filter

cafetière à filtre programmable avec filtre permanent

The permanent filter has been designed with stainless steel or fabric (nylon or linen). It can be conical or flat bottomed depending on the programmable filter coffee maker that is compatible with it.

  • Stainless Steel: The steel filter allows more oils and fine particles to pass through its mesh. This adds texture to your coffee.
  • Cloth: The mesh is relatively widely spaced compared to a steel filter. Cloth can withstand over 15,000 uses.

Advantages: Whether you choose a permanent steel or fabric filter, both are very resistant to corrosion. They're reusable and easy to clean. Best of all, they'll help you protect the environment.

Disadvantages: The permanent filter requires maintenance after each use. You also need to degrease it from time to time.

Who is it for? Nature lovers will be happy with programmable filter coffee makers equipped with a permanent filter.

Programmable electric filter coffee maker or manual filter coffee maker?

Programmable electric filter coffee maker

A programmable filter coffee machine allows you to get your cup of coffee at any time of the day. Equipped with a timer, it can be integrated in any environment, in the office or at home. The device is configurable via a digital screen. All you have to do is program a delayed start and, even when you are away or sleeping, it will start preparing your cups.

Some have pre-programmed recipes while others record the characteristics of your favorite coffee: type, intensity of flavors, brewing time, cup length... Generally, the programmable filter coffee maker keeps your hot beverage hot for a predefined period of time thanks to its isothermal pot or its mono-resistance system.

Manual filter coffee maker

The manual filter coffee maker extracts coffee in the same way as the electric model, with a few differences. Leaving aside the fact that it does not have a timer function, the main advantage of this machine is that you have control over the entire brewing process. You can dose the ground coffee as you wish, control the water temperature, the strength of the coffee, the texture and the brewing time.

However, you may make mistakes during preparation. Also, the margins of error are considerable if you are not careful. Unless you have accurate measurements, you may not be able to recreate the same coffee.

Verdict

The timer function is a real treat, especially for novices. Not only can they make a good cup of coffee, but they don't have to get up early to do so. The gain in comfort is there.

The manual filter coffee machine, on the other hand, is more suitable for amateur or professional baristas. You need to know how to dose everything to get the same flavor and taste with each preparation. You will also need it if you want to make a cup of coffee in a place without electricity, for example when camping.

Why buy a programmable filter coffee maker?

pourquoi acheter cafetière à filtre programmable

About ten cups per preparation

Compared to the espresso machine, the programmable filter coffee maker has a much higher yield. In a single preparation, you can obtain up to fifteen cups, whereas the espresso machine rarely exceeds two cups. Thus, the programmable filter coffee maker is more suitable for large families. You should also choose this type of coffee maker if you plan to serve coffee to many guests.

Much less expensive coffee

You need to pour ground coffee into a programmable filter coffee maker. The quantity will depend on the number of cups to be produced. You are free to choose the quality of the ground coffee. In any case, ground coffee will be much cheaper than buying capsules or pods for espresso machines. Replacement filters will also be very affordable.

Simple maintenance

The programmable filter coffee maker requires very little maintenance. The reservoir and the coffee pot are easily washable. Descaling is necessary when layers of minerals build up in the walls of the coffee maker. Descaling is quite simple. Some models have sensors that send signals whenever descaling is necessary.

The possibility to program the coffee preparation

With a programmable filter coffee maker, you won't have to get up in the morning and turn on the machine to make your coffee. Choose the brewing time one day in advance. The machine will then turn on and brew the cups by itself. When you wake up, the cup of coffee that will give you energy for the rest of the day will be ready.

A purchase cost accessible to all budgets

You don't want to spend a lot of money on your coffee maker? Opt for a programmable filter model. This type of coffee maker is much more affordable than espresso machines. You could buy a very good quality model for about 50 euros. To save even more money, you can choose a coffee maker with a permanent filter.

The best brands of programmable filter coffee makers

In our opinion, the best brands of programmable filter coffee makers in 2022 are :

Riviera et Bar
Melitta
Sage
Smeg
Graef

Riviera et Bar specializes in the design of kitchen utensils and small appliances intended to promote the art of cooking. The brand's products and appliances are of the highest quality, worthy of the art that it holds dear. This is the case with Riviera & Bar programmable filter coffee makers. These appliances are perfectly designed, easy to use and deliver coffee rich in flavor and aroma.

The Melitta brand is credited with inventing the very first coffee filter in 1908. Since then, the firm has made coffee machines its great specialty. In fact, it is among the market leaders, offering several lines of coffee machines of all types, from the basic piston coffee maker to the ultra-sophisticated espresso machines. Melitta also offers programmable filter coffee makers of superior quality, but accessible to all in terms of price.

The Sage brand is the great specialist in food processors, kitchen appliances and coffee machines. Its goal is to allow everyone to prepare tasty dishes and drinks without leaving home. The bet is won. With a Sage programmable filter coffee maker, you could easily make delicious cups of coffee.

Smeg is an Italian brand founded in 1948. It designs and manufactures appliances of all kinds, from food processors to microwave ovens and automatic coffee makers. Smeg emphasizes the affordable prices of its appliances. If you want to get an efficient and affordable programmable filter coffee maker, turn to the Smeg brand.

Graef has made a name for itself with its slicers that professionals use extensively. Its expertise, the manufacturer has extended to small appliances. Graef manufactures high quality, robust, efficient appliances that meet the needs of professionals. However, they are accessible to everyone, like the Graef programmable filter coffee makers that you can use at home to prepare your daily cups of coffee.

What is the price for a programmable filter coffee maker

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
40 £ to 150 £
Mid-range
150 £ to 250 £
High-end
more than 250 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Use vinegar to descale your programmable filter coffee maker

Prepare a mixture of equal parts vinegar alcohol and water. Pour the natural cleaning solution into the water tank. Plug in the coffee maker and program an extraction cycle. Run a cup of liquid and turn off. Let the solution work for at least 5 minutes. Turn the unit back on and complete the descaling step before rinsing.

Grind the beans just before brewing coffee

If you have time, you can grind the coffee just before pouring the beans into the programmable filter coffee maker. This helps retain the coffee's highly volatile aromas and compounds. The longer the ground coffee is kept, the more it will lose its quality. You can also get a filter coffee maker with a built-in grinder which will make it much easier.

Use a water softener to limit tartar build-up

The tartar build-up in the walls of your programmable filter coffee maker comes from the water you use. Tap water is loaded with minerals and promotes scaling of the device. To prevent scale build-up, you can install a water softener in your water system. The installation can be expensive. However, it will benefit not only your coffee maker, but all other appliances that use tap water.

Descale your programmable filter coffee maker every three months

You're wondering how often you should descale your programmable filter coffee maker. Refer to the instruction manual. In general, manufacturers recommend descaling every three months. However, the frequency will depend on the use of the machine. You can descale the coffee machine every month if it is used intensively.

Refill the hot water tank

Filling the reservoir of the programmable filter coffee maker with hot water makes for more delicious coffee. This is because sometimes extraction begins before the water has reached the ideal temperature. This results in less consistent extraction of coffee flavors. By pouring hot water into the tank, you solve this problem of homogeneity and shorten the preparation time of your cups.

FAQ

How to descale a programmable filter coffee maker?

Descaling a programmable filter coffee maker requires the use of a store-bought descaling agent. You can also use white or spirit vinegar. Mix the descaler or vinegar with water to fill the reservoir. Start the coffee machine. Turn it off for 5 to 10 minutes when the equivalent of one cup passes through the coffee pot. Repeat the operation until the tank is empty. Then rinse by restarting the machine, but using only water.

How many measuring spoons for a programmable filter coffee maker?

The amount of ground coffee to use in a programmable filter coffee maker will depend on the type of coffee you want to make. You can increase the amount to make a full-bodied, short coffee. Reduce the amount of ground coffee if you prefer a long, smooth drink. On average, pour a spoonful of coffee for one cup.

What coffee for a programmable filter coffee maker?

The programmable filter coffee maker works with ground coffee. You can't use coffee beans, capsules or pods. As for the variety of coffee, you are free to choose between Arabica, Robusta and the different coffee powders available on the market. Everything will depend on your tastes, but also on your means, some varieties being more expensive than others.

How to know the coffee grind for a programmable filter coffee maker?

There are several coffee grinding gauges. For programmable filter coffee makers, it is recommended to choose a medium fine grind. It can be recognized by the beans having a texture similar to powdered sugar. Of course, you could use coffee with larger or finer beans as long as your filter is suitable.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information. See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Riviera et Bar BCF560
Riviera and Bar BCF560
Melitta Optima Timer noire
Melitta Optima Timer black
Sage The Precision Brewer thermal
Sage The Precision Brewer thermal
Smeg DCF02PGEU
Smeg DCF02PGEU

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