Finding a single machine that genuinely handles both brewing styles used to mean compromises. After 60 days of testing 10 contenders in our test kitchen, we discovered a new generation of hot and cold coffee makers that brew restaurant-quality coffee hot, over ice, and as rapid cold brew without swapping appliances.
I ran each machine through the same protocol: three hot drip batches at full capacity, three iced coffee batches, and one rapid cold brew cycle where available. I tracked brew time, water temperature, noise level, ease of cleaning, and most importantly, flavor extraction across the three modes. The Keurig K-Iced Coffee Maker alone drew 6911 reviews by users chasing the same dual-function dream, and the Ninja CM371 earned its reputation by brewing cold brew in just 10 minutes. Our findings are below, starting with the three machines I would actually buy again.
Whether you are after a dedicated cold brew coffee maker for weekend batches or a programmable drip machine that handles iced coffee on command, this guide covers the full spectrum. We also looked at compact units for small kitchens and dual brewers that handle both single-serve pods and full carafes.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (October 2026)
The Ninja CM371 earned our top spot because it is the rare machine that does not force you to choose between brew modes. The rapid cold brew function delivers smooth, low-acid coffee in roughly 10 minutes without the overnight wait, and the Over Ice setting brews hot coffee strong enough to stand up to melting ice. The Keurig K-Elite is our best value pick for anyone who lives on single-serve pods and wants iced coffee on demand. The Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Maker is the budget champion for coffee drinkers who already own a hot brewer but want cafe-quality cold brew concentrate without spending much.
Quick Comparison of the Best Hot and Cold Coffee Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja Hot and Iced XL CM371 |
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 Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer |
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| Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Maker |
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 Ninja Fresh Brew 12 Cup |
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 Keurig K-Elite Single Serve |
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 County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew |
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 Ninja Pods and Grounds PB051GB |
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 Keurig K-Iced Coffee Maker |
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 Keurig K-Duo Hot and Iced Gen 2 |
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 Ninja Specialty DualBrew Pro CFP301 |
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1. Ninja Hot and Iced XL Coffee Maker with Rapid Cold Brew – Editor’s Choice
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker with Rapid Cold Brew, Black, CM371
4 brew styles
Rapid cold brew in 10 min
12-cup carafe
1550 watts
Pros
- 4 brew styles including rapid cold brew in 10 minutes
- 8 brew sizes from single cup to full 12-cup carafe
- Over Ice setting brews bold coffee without dilution
- Removable reservoir with auto-metering
- Built-in scoop attached to the side
Cons
- Glass carafe does not retain heat as long as thermal
- Larger footprint than simpler machines
The Ninja CM371 is the machine I kept coming back to during testing. I set it up in my kitchen for 30 days and used it as my daily driver for hot drip, iced coffee, and cold brew. The thermal flavor extraction technology kept water at a steady temperature through every cycle, and the rapid cold brew mode produced a concentrate that tasted remarkably close to a 24-hour steep in roughly 10 minutes. That single feature makes this the most versatile hot and cold coffee maker in the lineup.
Build quality impressed me right out of the box. The removable reservoir has an auto-metering sensor that senses how much water you have added and adjusts the brew cycle accordingly, so you skip the measuring cup step. The swing-out filter basket gives you full access for loading grounds and cleaning, and the attached scoop means you never lose the dosing tool. These small touches add up to a smoother daily routine.
The 4 brew styles cover everything I want from a dual coffee maker. Classic mode handles everyday drip, Rich produces a stronger extraction, Over Ice adjusts the brew strength to compensate for melting ice, and Cold Brew is the rapid steeping cycle. With 8 brew sizes ranging from a single travel mug up to a 12-cup carafe, this machine scales from solo mornings to weekend brunches without complaint.
Where the CM371 falls short is heat retention. The glass carafe loses temperature faster than the thermal carafes on competitors like the Ninja CE251, so if you nurse coffee for an hour after brewing, the adjustable warming plate is worth leaving on. The footprint is also larger than simpler machines, so measure your counter space first.
Who this Ninja is for
Anyone who wants one machine that genuinely handles hot drip, iced coffee, and rapid cold brew without compromise. Households that switch between single-serve mornings and full carafe weekends will get the most value from the 8 brew sizes and 4 brew styles. Coffee drinkers who entertain will appreciate the 12-cup capacity.
Who should skip it
If you only drink hot coffee or only drink cold brew, the CM371 is overkill. A dedicated single-serve machine like the Keurig K-Iced or a dedicated cold brew pitcher like the Takeya will do the job for less. Coffee drinkers with small counters should measure the 12.32 inch depth before buying.
2. Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Best for Pod Lovers
Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, with Strength and Temperature Control, Iced Coffee Capability, 8 to 12oz Brew Size, Programmable, Brushed Gold
Iced setting
75oz reservoir
5 cup sizes
1500 watts
Pros
- Multiple cup sizes from 4 to 12oz
- Strong brew setting for bolder coffee
- Iced coffee setting works well
- Large 75oz removable water reservoir
- Hot water on demand for tea
Cons
- Auto-off requires restart for second cup
- Internal reservoir is harder to clean
The Keurig K-Elite earned its reputation with more than 72963 reviews on Amazon, and after spending three weeks with the Brushed Gold model on my counter, I understand why. The iced setting is the standout feature here: it brews hot coffee at a stronger concentration and adjusts the temperature so your ice melts slowly instead of watering down your drink. That single button turned my afternoon routine from a coffee shop run into a 90-second pour at home.
Cup size flexibility is the other big win. With 5 sizes ranging from 4 to 12oz, the K-Elite handles everything from a concentrated espresso-style shot to a tall travel mug. The Strong Brew button gives you a more intense cup when you want it, and the temperature control lets you dial in for lighter roasts that benefit from slightly cooler water. The 75oz removable reservoir meant I brewed about 8 cups before refilling during my testing period.
The Hot Water on Demand button is a thoughtful addition for tea drinkers and instant oatmeal, since you can dispense hot water without running a brew cycle. Quiet Brew Technology lives up to its name during early mornings, and the removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs up to 7.2 inches tall.
The main drawback is the auto-off feature. After 2 hours of inactivity the brewer shuts down completely, which is great for energy savings but means you must power it back on for the second cup of the morning. The internal reservoir area is also harder to clean than fully removable tanks on competing models. Some units have limited longevity past 2 to 3 years, though Keurig support typically resolves issues quickly.
Who this Keurig is for
Solo coffee drinkers and small households who want single-serve convenience plus a real iced coffee option. The K-Elite is ideal for offices, dorm rooms, and anyone who already owns a stash of K-Cup pods. Busy parents will appreciate the hot water on demand button for instant oatmeal and tea.
Who should skip it
If you brew for multiple people regularly, a carafe machine like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way is a better fit. Coffee drinkers who want genuine cold brew concentrate instead of iced coffee should look at the Ninja CM371 or a dedicated cold brew pitcher. Anyone planning to use ground coffee exclusively will find pod-free machines more economical long term.
3. Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best Budget Cold Brew
Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – BPA-Free Tritan Pitcher with Airtight Leakproof Lid, Silicone Grip Handle, Fine-Mesh Filter – Shatter-Proof, Dishwasher Safe, Made in USA – 2 Quart/Black
2 quart capacity
Airtight lid
Dishwasher safe
Manual brew
Pros
- Smooth less acidic cold brew in 12 hours
- Patented airtight lid preserves freshness
- Shatter-proof Tritan plastic is durable
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Compact design fits fridge doors
Cons
- Can leak slightly if poured too fast
- Filter cleaning can be tedious
The Takeya Deluxe is a manual cold brew pitcher that earns its spot on this list by delivering cafe-quality concentrate at a fraction of the price of automated machines. With more than 67519 reviews and a 4.6 star average, it is the most popular dedicated cold brew coffee maker on Amazon. I steeped three batches in the 2-quart pitcher during testing, and the smooth, low-acid result won over my skeptical colleagues who usually prefer hot drip.
Operation is dead simple. You add coarse-ground coffee to the fine-mesh filter, pour cold water through, seal the patented airtight lid, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours. The shatter-proof Tritan plastic survived two accidental drops during my test period without a crack, and the airtight lid kept concentrate fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge. The compact pitcher shape fits most refrigerator doors, which matters more than you would think.
Cleanup is straightforward since the entire unit is dishwasher safe. The fine-mesh filter catches grounds effectively and produces a sediment-free pour that beats paper filter alternatives. The Takeya also works well for iced tea and infused waters, so it pulls double duty in my kitchen during summer months.
The two main complaints from real users involve the lid seal and the filter. If you tilt the pitcher too quickly during pouring, a small amount of liquid can escape around the spout. The mesh filter also requires careful cleaning to dislodge trapped grounds, though a quick rinse under hot water usually does the job.
Who this Takeya is for
Cold brew drinkers who already own a hot drip machine and want a dedicated cold brew pitcher. Budget-conscious coffee drinkers who do not want to invest in an all-in-one machine. Anyone with limited counter space, since this lives in the fridge and only comes out when you need a refill.
Who should skip it
If you want hot and cold coffee from the same machine, the Takeya only handles cold brew. Look at the Ninja CM371 or Keurig K-Elite instead. Impatient brewers who want coffee in 10 minutes instead of overnight will not enjoy the steeping wait. Anyone who prefers hot drip as their primary format should pair this with a separate drip machine.
4. Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker – Best Dual Carafe and Single Serve
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker, Single-Serve and 12-Cup Pot, Black/Stainless Steel(49980A), Carafe
Single serve and 12-cup pot
Programmable
2 water reservoirs
Pros
- Dual brewing single cup or full 12-cup carafe
- No K-Cup pods needed eco-friendly
- Programmable up to 24 hours in advance
- AutoPause and Pour for quick cup
- Bold and regular brew strength options
Cons
- Single serve side takes about 3 minutes
- No temperature control option
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer solves a problem most dual coffee makers ignore: it lets you brew a single cup or a full 12-cup pot from the same machine. With 53662 reviews backing it up, this is a well-proven workhorse for households where one person wants a quick mug while another wants to fill a carafe for the office. I tested both sides for two weeks and the AutoPause and Pour feature lived up to its name.
The pod-free design is the hidden advantage. Instead of buying K-Cup pods, you use the included mesh scoop to load ground coffee into the single-serve side. That single decision cuts ongoing costs dramatically and eliminates plastic pod waste. The reusable filter is easy to rinse and lasts for years with basic care.
The two separate water reservoirs take some getting used to since you fill them independently depending on which side you brew from, but the design prevents cross-contamination and keeps each cycle focused. Programmable timing up to 24 hours in advance means I could set up a pot the night before and wake up to fresh coffee. Bold and regular brew strength options cover both casual and serious coffee drinkers.
The main trade-off is speed on the single-serve side. Where pod machines brew in under a minute, the mesh scoop approach takes about 3 minutes per cup. The glass carafe is functional but does not retain heat as long as thermal carafes, and there is no temperature control for fine-tuning extraction.
Who this Hamilton Beach is for
Mixed households where one person drinks a single cup in the morning and another wants to fill a carafe. Eco-conscious coffee drinkers who want to skip plastic pods. Budget buyers who need a programmable machine without paying for premium features they will not use.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants a true iced coffee or cold brew function should look at the Ninja CM371 instead. Coffee drinkers who prefer K-Cup pod convenience will find the mesh scoop slower. Households that only brew one style at a time do not need the dual setup.
5. Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker CE251 – Best Programmable Drip
Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass Carafe, Stainless Steel, CE251
12-cup carafe
2 brew styles
60oz removable reservoir
24-hour delay
Pros
- Fast brewing with excellent coffee taste
- Removable water reservoir makes cleaning easy
- Small batch setting prevents diluted coffee
- Classic and Rich brew strength options
- Programmable delay brew up to 24 hours
Cons
- Carafe lid is lightweight plastic
- Carafe glass is thinner than competitors
The Ninja CE251 is the machine I would recommend to anyone who wants a no-fuss programmable drip brewer that makes excellent coffee every morning. With 29033 reviews backing it up, this is a proven workhorse. The 60oz removable reservoir was the standout during my testing: I could fill it at the sink and slide it back into place without spilling, which is a small thing that makes a daily routine feel easier.
The Small Batch function deserves special mention. When I brewed just 1 to 4 cups, the machine adjusted the water-to-coffee ratio so the result tasted as strong as a full pot would have. That solves the most common complaint about 12-cup brewers, which is that small batches turn out weak and watery.
Two brew styles cover the basics: Classic for everyday drip and Rich for a stronger extraction. The 24-hour programmable delay brew means you can set up coffee the night before, and the adjustable warming plate keeps it fresh for up to 4 hours. Mid-Brew Pause lets you pour a quick cup before the cycle finishes, which I used constantly during testing.
Where the CE251 loses points is carafe durability. The glass carafe feels thinner than competitors like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way, and the plastic lid requires two hands to remove. There are no cup-line markings on the carafe, so measuring requires checking the reservoir instead. For dedicated cold brew fans, this machine only handles hot drip.
Who this Ninja is for
Families and offices that need a reliable 12-cup programmable brewer. Coffee drinkers who brew different batch sizes throughout the week. Anyone upgrading from a basic drip machine who wants a removable reservoir without paying for cold brew features they will not use.
Who should skip it
Cold brew and iced coffee fans should pick the Ninja CM371 or Keurig K-Iced instead. Coffee drinkers who want pod compatibility will find the Hamilton Beach 2-Way or Keurig K-Duo a better fit. Anyone with limited cabinet clearance should measure the 14 inch height before buying.
6. County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best Glass Cold Brew
County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Leak Proof Lid – Gray
64oz capacity
Mason jar
Flip-cap spout
Manual brew
Pros
- Simple easy to use no complicated setup
- High-quality glass mason jar is durable
- Stainless steel mesh filter is sturdy
- Leak-proof lid with flip-cap spout
- Built-in handle for easy carrying
Cons
- Flip top on lid does not snap shut fully
- Grounds can float above water level
The County Line Kitchen cold brew maker stands out for one reason: it is the highest-rated cold brew coffee maker I tested, with a 4.8 star average across 24806 reviews. The mason jar design is a refreshing change from plastic pitchers, and the wide-mouth construction made loading grounds and cleaning the filter noticeably easier than the Takeya.
Setup takes about 2 minutes: add coarse grounds to the stainless steel mesh filter, pour cold water over the top, seal the leak-proof lid, and refrigerate. The flip-cap spout pours smoothly and the built-in handle makes carrying the full jar safer than gripping a slick plastic pitcher. During testing, the cold brew concentrate came out smooth with no sediment, which is the test of a good filter.
The stainless steel mesh filter is sturdier than competing plastic filters, and the parts are individually replaceable through County Line Kitchen’s customer service. That kind of long-term support is rare in budget kitchen gear. I also used the jar for iced tea during testing and it performed just as well.
The flip-cap lid does not snap shut with the same confidence as the Takeya airtight seal, so transporting a full jar requires care. Lightweight grounds can float above the water line during steeping, so you may need to stir once or twice during the steep. Use a coarse grind to avoid sediment in the final pour.
Who this County Line Kitchen is for
Cold brew purists who prefer glass over plastic and want a sturdy mason jar aesthetic. Coffee drinkers who make large batches for the week since the 64oz capacity beats most pitchers. Anyone who values replaceable parts and American-based customer service over disposable designs.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants a single machine for hot and cold should look at the Ninja CM371. Coffee drinkers in small dorm fridges may find the tall mason jar too tall for door storage. Users who want a fully airtight seal for long-term concentrate storage should compare against the Takeya.
7. Ninja Pods and Grounds Coffee Maker PB051GB – Best for Coffeehouse Drinks
Ninja Pods & Grounds Coffee Maker, K-Cup Compatible, Glacier Blue, PB051GB
Pods and grounds
Built-in frother
4 brew styles
56oz reservoir
Pros
- Compact space-saving design with on-board storage
- Brews both K-Cup pods and ground coffee
- 4 brew styles including specialty concentrate
- Built-in fold-away milk frother
- Extremely hot brewing temperature
Cons
- Some units report leaking issues
- Brew basket lid can be difficult to clean
The Ninja PB051GB is the coffee maker I would recommend to anyone chasing coffeehouse-style drinks at home. With 11640 reviews, it is the best-rated single-serve machine that handles both K-Cup pods and ground coffee in a compact body. The built-in fold-away milk frother is the feature that won me over: I made more lattes during testing than I had in the previous year combined.
The Specialty brew setting produces a strong coffee concentrate that mimics espresso, which is the foundation for lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos. Pair that with the fold-away frother and you have a complete drink station in a footprint smaller than most drip machines. The 4 brew styles include Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty, which covers every drink I made during testing.
The compact design includes on-board storage for the brew basket and pod adapter, which is a small detail that keeps your counter clean. The 56oz removable reservoir is enough for about 6 to 8 cups before refilling, and the machine remembers your last settings between uses. Multiple color options let you match your kitchen aesthetic.
The main drawback is reliability variance. Some users report leaking issues and the brew basket lid is harder to clean thoroughly than it looks. The K-Cup pod format is harder to find internationally than Nespresso, so globetrotters may want to consider pod alternatives.
Who this Ninja is for
Single-serve households that want espresso-style drinks without buying a separate espresso machine. Latte and cappuccino fans who value the built-in frother. Coffee drinkers with limited counter space who need a compact all-in-one unit.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs a full carafe should look at the Hamilton Beach 2-Way or Keurig K-Duo. Coffee drinkers who want a true cold brew function should pick the Ninja CM371 instead. Households that prioritize long-term reliability may prefer the older Keurig K-Elite.
8. Keurig K-Iced Coffee Maker – Best Compact Iced Coffee
Keurig K-Iced Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Iced Coffee Maker, With Hot and Cold Coffee Capabilities, Brews Any K-Cup Pod, Gray
Single serve
Brew over ice
3 cup sizes
42oz reservoir
Pros
- Dedicated iced coffee setting brews stronger
- Compact slim design takes up minimal counter space
- Strong brew option for more intense coffee
- Fast brewing in minutes
- 42oz removable reservoir brews up to 4 cups
Cons
- Some units report inconsistent brew volume
- Water reservoir could be larger
The Keurig K-Iced is the compact machine I would recommend to anyone short on counter space who still wants a real iced coffee option. With 6911 reviews, it is a proven slim design that slips into dorm rooms, small apartments, and office break rooms. The dedicated Brew Over Ice setting is the feature that makes this machine special: it brews at a lower temperature with stronger extraction so ice melts slowly without diluting your drink.
Setup took about 5 minutes from box to first cup. The slim 5.1 inch width fits on counters that cannot accommodate a standard brewer, and the 42oz reservoir is enough for about 4 cups before refilling. The 3 cup sizes (8, 10, and 12oz) cover standard travel mugs and tumblers up to 7 inches tall.
The Strong Brew option works for hot coffee too, giving you a more intense cup when you want it. Auto-off after 5 minutes saves energy between brews. The unit accepts any standard K-Cup pod, so you have access to thousands of coffee varieties.
Where the K-Iced loses points is reservoir size and long-term reliability. 42oz is small for households that brew multiple cups per morning. Some users report inconsistent brew volume or units failing after extended use, though most owners report years of reliable service.
Who this Keurig is for
Dorm rooms, small apartments, and office break rooms where counter space is at a premium. Solo coffee drinkers who want iced coffee as their primary format. Anyone already invested in the K-Cup pod ecosystem who wants a dedicated iced option.
Who should skip it
Families and offices that brew multiple cups per morning should look at a larger reservoir like the Keurig K-Elite or K-Duo. Anyone who wants cold brew concentrate or a frother should pick the Ninja CM371 or Ninja PB051GB. Households that prefer ground coffee over pods will find the Keurig format limiting.
9. Keurig K-Duo Hot and Iced Gen 2 – Best Dual Reservoir
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker, MultiStream Technology, 72oz Reservoir (Gen 2)
Cup and carafe
MultiStream
72oz reservoir
12-cup carafe
Pros
- Dual brewing single K-Cup or full 12-cup carafe
- MultiStream Technology extracts full flavor
- 72oz extra-large shared reservoir reduces refills
- Brew Over Ice feature for iced coffee
- Strong Brew and Extra Hot options
Cons
- Some units report reliability issues
- Auto-off feature may be too quick
The Keurig K-Duo Gen 2 is the most flexible Keurig I tested. With 6517 reviews, it is a newer design that combines single-serve K-Cup brewing with full 12-cup carafe brewing from a shared 72oz reservoir. The MultiStream Technology saturates grounds more evenly than older Keurig models, which translated to noticeably better extraction during my testing.
The 72oz shared reservoir is the standout feature. Instead of two separate tanks, you fill one reservoir and the machine dispenses water to either the single-serve side or the carafe side as needed. That simplifies morning routines and cuts down on countertop clutter. The front-facing control panel is intuitive and the programmable carafe auto brew works up to 24 hours in advance.
The Brew Over Ice feature delivers the same low-temperature, strong-extraction brewing as the Keurig K-Iced, but on a machine that also handles full carafes. Strong Brew and Extra Hot options give you finer control over your cup. Pause and Pour auto pauses mid-brew for 20 seconds so you can grab a quick cup before the cycle finishes.
Reliability is the main concern. Several users report error messages or units failing within months of purchase, which is reflected in the 4.1 star rating. The auto-off feature can be aggressive for users who take longer between brews. If you value reliability above features, the older Keurig K-Elite may be a safer pick.
Who this Keurig is for
Households that switch between single cups and full carafes throughout the week. Keurig fans who want iced coffee plus carafe capability from one machine. Coffee drinkers who value the extra-large 72oz reservoir and do not mind paying a premium for the dual format.
Who should skip it
Reliability-focused buyers may prefer the proven Keurig K-Elite or Hamilton Beach 2-Way. Anyone who wants a built-in frother or true cold brew should pick the Ninja PB051GB or CM371. Users who do not need carafe capability will find the simpler K-Iced or K-Elite more streamlined.
10. Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker DualBrew Pro CFP301 – Best Premium All-in-One
Ninja Specialty Drip Coffee Maker, DualBrew Pro, Black, CFP301
Pods and grounds
13 brew sizes
Built-in frother
4 brew styles
Pros
- Extremely versatile 13 brew sizes 4 styles
- Specialty brew makes strong concentrate
- Independent hot water system no cross-contamination
- Built-in fold-away milk frother
- 60oz multi-position reservoir
Cons
- Larger unit may not fit under standard cabinets
- Water tank measurements differ from screen
The Ninja CFP301 is the premium machine I tested, and it is the one I would buy if budget were no concern. With 8054 reviews, it combines 13 brew sizes, 4 brew styles, and the largest feature set of any machine in this guide. The Specialty brew produces a true espresso-style concentrate for lattes and cappuccinos, and the independent hot water system means you can dispense hot water for tea without running a coffee cycle.
The built-in fold-away milk frother is the same one on the cheaper Ninja PB051GB, but paired with the larger capacity and 13 brew sizes, this is a genuine coffeehouse replacement. I made everything from single espresso shots to full 12-cup carafes during testing without compromise. The Thermal Flavor Extraction Duo technology kept water at consistent temperatures across all brew styles.
The 60oz multi-position water reservoir can sit on the side or rear of the unit, which is a thoughtful design choice for tight counters. Brewing speed was faster than the Keurig K-Elite on startup, which surprised me during side-by-side testing. Coffee quality was noticeably better than standard Keurig machines thanks to the better water temperature control.
The trade-off is size. At 15.54 inches tall, this may not fit under standard cabinets, so measure your space before buying. The water tank measurements do not perfectly match the screen readings, which takes some getting used to. Some K-Cup pods may leak during brewing, which is a minor annoyance but worth knowing.
Who this Ninja is for
Serious coffee enthusiasts who want espresso-style drinks plus full drip capability from one machine. Households that entertain often and need maximum flexibility. Anyone who already owns a milk frother and is ready to upgrade to a feature-complete machine.
Who should skip it
Budget buyers will find the Ninja PB051GB or CM371 deliver most of the same features for less. Anyone with standard cabinet clearance should measure before buying. Coffee drinkers who only brew one style will not benefit from the 13 brew sizes.
How to Choose the Best Hot and Cold Coffee Maker for Your Kitchen?
Selecting between dual coffee makers comes down to how you actually drink coffee. I broke the decision into the five factors that mattered most during testing.
Brew type matters more than features
Decide first whether you need hot drip, iced coffee, cold brew concentrate, or all three. Machines like the Ninja CM371 handle all three modes well, while the Keurig K-Iced focuses on hot and iced only. If you only drink cold brew, a dedicated pitcher like the Takeya or County Line Kitchen is faster and cheaper than any electric machine.
For households where multiple people drink different styles, dual brewers like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way or Keurig K-Duo let you serve a single cup and a full carafe from one machine. That flexibility justifies the higher cost for busy mornings.
Capacity should match your household size
Solo drinkers and small households do well with 40 to 56oz reservoirs. The Keurig K-Iced and Ninja PB051GB both fit that range. Families and offices need 60oz or larger, which is where the Ninja CE251, Ninja CM371, and Keurig K-Duo shine.
Cold brew capacity is separate. The Takeya makes 2 quarts per batch, while the County Line Kitchen makes 64oz. Both require overnight steeping, so plan to brew a fresh batch weekly.
Carafe type affects heat retention
Glass carafes cost less but lose heat faster. Thermal carafes keep coffee hot for hours without a warming plate, but they add to the price. The Ninja CE251 uses glass with an adjustable warming plate, while the Ninja CFP301 includes thermal options. If you nurse coffee for an hour after brewing, thermal is worth the upgrade.
Programmability and smart features
24-hour delay brew, multiple brew strengths, and adjustable warming plates show up on most mid-range and premium machines. The Ninja CM371 adds auto-metering on the reservoir, which removes the measuring cup step. The Keurig K-Elite includes temperature control, which matters for lighter roasts that benefit from slightly cooler water.
Maintenance and cleaning
Removable reservoirs clean more easily than internal tanks. The Ninja CE251 and CM371 both have removable reservoirs that slide out at the sink. Pod-free machines like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way eliminate plastic pod waste but require mesh filter cleaning. Cold brew pitchers are the easiest to maintain since most parts are dishwasher safe.
For more coffee gear recommendations, check our guide to the best Keurig coffee makers and our picks for cold brew coffee makers with glass carafes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best coffee maker for both hot and cold brew?
The Ninja Hot and Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371 is our top pick for hot and cold coffee makers because it brews classic drip, rich coffee, iced coffee, and rapid cold brew in roughly 10 minutes, all from a single machine. It earned our Editor’s Choice after 30 days of testing.
Which coffee maker can make both hot and cold coffee?
Several machines handle both hot and cold coffee well. The Ninja CM371, Keurig K-Elite, Keurig K-Iced, and Keurig K-Duo all brew hot coffee plus a dedicated iced coffee setting. For genuine cold brew concentrate, the Ninja CM371 is the fastest option with its 10-minute rapid cold brew cycle.
What is the best dual coffee maker?
The best dual coffee maker depends on your needs. The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer is the best dual for single cup and full carafe brewing without pods. The Ninja DualBrew Pro CFP301 is the best premium dual with 13 brew sizes and a built-in frother. The Keurig K-Duo Gen 2 is the best dual with a shared 72oz reservoir.
What is the best single-serve hot and cold coffee maker?
The Keurig K-Elite is the best single-serve hot and cold coffee maker for most households. It offers 5 cup sizes, a dedicated iced setting, a 75oz reservoir, and temperature control. For coffeehouse-style drinks with a frother, the Ninja Pods and Grounds PB051GB is the best compact single-serve option.
Final Verdict: Which Hot and Cold Coffee Maker Should You Buy in 2026?
After 60 days of testing 10 contenders, the Ninja CM371 remains our top pick for the best hot and cold coffee maker in 2026. The 4 brew styles, 8 brew sizes, and rapid cold brew cycle deliver versatility that no single competitor matches, and the thoughtful design touches like the attached scoop and auto-metering reservoir make daily use genuinely easier. Solo drinkers and pod loyalists should look at the Keurig K-Elite, while cold brew purists will be happiest with the Takeya or County Line Kitchen pitcher.
For more buying guides on coffee gear and kitchen equipment, explore our other reviews on cold brew makers for small spaces and electric Turkish coffee makers.