Top 7 Best Coffee Makers with Removable Water Reservoir - Reviewed

Quick summary

Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew 10-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker with Removable Carafe

Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew 10-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker with Removable Carafe

Reliable water filtration system that will give you clean-tasting drinks

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5
best overall
Cuisinart DCC-300 Coffee-on-demand 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with a Removable Water Tank

Cuisinart DCC-300 Coffee-on-demand 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with a Removable Water Tank

An excellent mid-range machine designed for the average coffee drinker.

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4.5
Ninja CF097 Coffee Bar with a Removable Water Tank

Ninja CF097 Coffee Bar with a Removable Water Tank

Stylish and powerful machine with a removable water reservoir.

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4.5

Tired of cleaning up messy counters after every cup of coffee? A removable water tank is a simple and elegant solution to most of your troubles. It makes refilling the coffee maker a breeze, as you can take the reservoir to the sink and fill it at the tap. No more lugging pitchers around and awkwardly trying not to spill water everywhere! If you’re pumped for this brand new world of a clean kitchen, check out our favorite coffee makers.

The Best Coffee Makers with Removable Carafe

Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew 10-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker with Removable Carafe

Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew 10-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker with Removable Carafe

Things we liked:
  • Brewing at 205 F for a richer flavor
  • Delayed brewing, sneak-a-cup features
  • Double-walled thermal carafe without a hot plate
  • 2-hour-long fresh brew timer
  • Goldtone filter and water filtration disk included
  • Cleaning cycle for easy maintenance
Things we didn’t like:
  • Carafe leaking issues

The best thing about this model is the brew quality. Thanks to 205 F water temperature, the java is flavorful and strong. And the double-walled thermal carafe keeps it warm without overheating and altering the taste. If you want the best drinking experience, pay attention to the fresh brew timer that specifies how long it’s been since the cycle finished.

The machine comes with all the classic features you love, including auto-pause, delayed brewing, and permanent gold filter. But despite its many positives, it isn’t the best coffee maker with removable water reservoir due to a major design flaw when it comes to the basket and carafe design. The spout feeding the brew into the pot can be easily clogged by the ground coffee and cause leaks. As a result, the carafe, the machine, and the kitchen counter get splattered with coffee. So if you’re a fan of Mr.Coffee, be ready to perform a deep cleaning of the coffee maker’s innards after every cycle.

Cuisinart DCC-300 Coffee-on-demand 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with a Removable Water Tank

Cuisinart DCC-300 Coffee-on-demand 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with a Removable Water Tank

Things we liked:
  • Coffee dispenser prevents spills and stains
  • Large coffee tank capacity (60 oz)
  • Two brew size options (12 oz or 4 oz)
  • Programmable delayed brewing
  • Permanent goldtone filter included
Things we didn’t like:
  • May require an extension cord to use (short power cord)
  • Does not fit tall travel mugs

Tired of the mess your drip machine makes of the kitchen counters? Enter this clever Cuisinart design that combines the benefits of a drip machine with a seamless experience of a coffee dispenser. The insulated coffee maker reservoir fits twelve 5-ounce servings and keeps them warm until you press the lever and pour yourself a cuppa. And if you aren’t in the mood for a coffee binge, you can brew a third of the carafe with the 1-4 cups feature. The only downside to this design is the short cup opening that’ll hardly fit travel mugs.

The 24-hours programmable timer will let you set delayed brewing for any time of day or night. And the goldtone filter included means you don’t have to waste money on paper filters. Despite these benefits, this model comes with a big design drawback that cuts the power cord short at under 12 inches. You might need to add an extension cord to the setup if you are set on this machine.

Ninja CF097 Coffee Bar with a Removable Water Tank

Ninja CF097 Coffee Bar with a Removable Water Tank

Things we liked:
  • Flexible brew size
  • Delicious specialty and over ice coffee
  • Thermal carafe and permanent filter included
  • Programmable delayed brewing
  • Removable side-mounted water tank
  • Built-in frother
Things we didn’t like:
  • Questionable durability

This stylish and powerful machine has sneaked up on us, true to its name. For a very reasonable sum, you get plenty of brewing options. For instance, you can set a brew batch size anywhere from a single cup to a full carafe. The latter is thermal, by the way, so it’ll keep your java warm for a couple of hours without making it sour or bitter due to overheating as a hot plate would.

The freedom to choose between classic and rich strength is nice, but most buyers are raving about the over ice and specialty brew features that whip up a coffee concentrate similar to espresso. When coupled with a built-in milk frother, the specialty setting can create a near-perfect cappuccino or latte. And yes, this model is programmable to account for delayed brewing and comes with a clear removable carafe that’s mounted on the side, within your easy reach.

Hamilton Beach 46205 Programmable Coffee Maker with Removable Water Tank

Hamilton Beach 46205 Programmable Coffee Maker with Removable Water Tank

Things we liked:
  • Three strength settings
  • Non-stick hot plate
  • Pause and pour during brewing
  • Rotating base for easy tank access
  • Programmable delayed brewing
Things we didn’t like:
  • Fragile glass carafe

This compact and affordable coffee maker is an eye-opener. You will never want to go back to the usual design after you’ve enjoyed the rotating base and swing-out basket. They make refilling the water tank and scoping coffee grounds easier than ever.

But that’s not the extent of the clever solutions implemented by Hamilton Beach. The machine offers three strength options and a sneak-a-cuppa feature to prevent unfortunate spills. And even if you miss your cue and spill coffee, the warming plate has a non-stick coating that will never rust and is super easy to keep clean. The only thing we’ve found lacking is the glass carafe that’s so fragile it may crack in a couple of months, and getting a replacement may be a pain

Capresso 498.05 MT900 Rapid Brew Coffee Maker

Capresso 498.05 MT900 Rapid Brew Coffee Maker

Things we liked:
  • Fast brewing, delicious coffee
  • Stainless steel heating system
  • 10-cup thermal carafe
  • Dishwasher-safe goldtone filter included
  • Charcoal filter included
  • Comfortable water tank handle
Things we didn’t like:
  • Sensitive timer buttons
  • Fiddly carafe lid

This stylish device is one of our favorites for many reasons. For one, it can brew 10 cups of mouthwatering java in under ten minutes, which puts it on par with fancy Keurig machines. Moreover, it relies on stainless steel for a heater and double-walled thermal carafe, preventing water from touching aluminum and protecting your health. If that’s not enough, the coffee maker comes with a charcoal water filter and a goldtone filter you can clean in a dishwasher. When it comes to the reservoir, coffee maker by Capresso is also a step up from the usual fare, as it boasts a sturdy handle that makes refilling it a pleasure.

Some buyers complain about coffee leaking from the carafe lid, but this problem is easily solved by properly locking the lid in place. And the timer buttons can seem a bit too sensitive, so setting up delayed brewing may seem a bit tricky. If you read the user manual and follow the tips inside, you’ll fall in love with this coffee maker, as we did.

Zojirushi EC-YTC100XB Coffee Maker with Detachable Water Reservoir

Zojirushi EC-YTC100XB Coffee Maker with Detachable Water Reservoir

Things we liked:
  • Brewing at 200 F with pre-infusion
  • Vacuum-insulated thermal carafe
  • Iced coffee feature for a concentrated brew
  • Time-saving mode for faster brewing
  • Side-mounted removable water reservoir
  • Stainless steel filter and measuring spoon included
Things we didn’t like:
  • Regular strength setting may seem too weak
  • Loud beeping after the brewing is done (can be muted)

Thanks to an outstanding design, this coffee maker with removable water tank and thermal carafe holds a special place in our hearts. It’s super sturdy and durable, and all components are incredibly well-thought-out. The side-mounted water tank is in easy reach without sliding the device from under the kitchen cabinets. The basket swings out from the front, making your life easier. If that’s not enough, the machine comes with a glorious stainless steel thermal carafe that’s insulated with vacuum to keep your java warm and delicious for hours.

Still, you might be disappointed if you’re looking for a slew of brewing options. While the flavor is great thanks to pre-infusion and brewing at 200 F, there are no brew size or strength settings. You can only opt for an iced coffee feature that produces a concentrate fit for pouring over ice without tasting diluted. This option might be a life-saver if you prefer your java extra-strong.

Russell Hobbs CM7000S 8 Cup Coffee Maker with Removable Water Carafe

Russell Hobbs CM7000S 8 Cup Coffee Maker with Removable Water Carafe

Things we liked:
  • Delayed brewing possible
  • Auto shut-off after 2 hours
  • Removable brew basket for easy filling
  • Large, clear removable water tank
Things we didn’t like:
  • Glass carafe prone to cracking
  • Awkward cord placement

This coffee maker is as simple as it gets. The basic set of features includes programmable delayed brewing, automatic shut-off after two hours of keeping your java warm, and automatic pause in the brew cycle to let you sneak a drink.

With no bells and whistles, the device is easy to set up, program, and maintain. The removable reservoir is made of clear plastic with a neat handle for comfortable handling, and the brew basket is removable too. Thanks to these design decisions, your kitchen will stay mess-free. However, we recommend you treat the glass carafe with care, as it’s prone to cracking. And finding a replacement is a chore.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Coffee Maker with a Removable Water Tank

Capacity

The range goes from a single cuppa to a full 14-cup carafe. Single-serve machines are usually faster and cheaper, as they are free of a carafe and warming plate combo. They are your best bet if you’re the only coffee lover in the household and prefer your java fresh. Drip coffee machines with carafes are better suited for multiple users or people who can drink several cups in a row.

Programmable Features

Most devices on our list come with delayed brewing capabilities, but you need to set the clock and program the timer to use them. Brew strength and size settings are exceedingly useful if you desire extra flexibility. After all, there’s nothing better than enjoying a super-strong cuppa after a night of fitful sleep.

Thermal Carafe

Unless you’re a hardcore glass carafe fan, switching to thermal is a life-changer. Thermal carafes are sturdy, so you won’t have to go looking for a replacement in a month or two. Besides, they don’t overheat your java like warming plates, so it tastes nearly as good as freshly brewed. The only downside is that thermal carafe won’t keep your brain juice hot for hours; it usually lasts around 60 minutes.

Budget

There are plenty of coffee makers with removable water reservoir under $100, but you always get what you pay for. Such devices rarely outlive a year or two, and some of their parts fail even sooner. However, splurging on a thousand-dollar coffee maker is a risk few are willing to take. We recommend you decide on a budget before researching the market, so you don’t get swayed by pretty promises.

Built-in Coffee Grinder

If you’re looking for a grind-and-brew machine, avoid blade grinders, as they never produce consistent fineness. Instead, look for models equipped with burr grinders or splurge for a standalone burr grinder. Either option will provide greater control over the grind size and prevent the beans from overheating and changing the flavor.

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

A detachable water reservoir is never the first thing on your mind when you’re shopping for a coffee maker, but it should move up your priorities list. The ergonomic design means you can enjoy your cuppa without lugging the machine around, spilling water everywhere, and wasting time on cleanup. Check out the best models on our list by Zojirushi and Capresso, and they will turn your daily coffee ritual into a pleasure.

Renat Mamatazin

Renat Mamatkazin

2021/05/14

Founder and owner of Lion Coffee and 3ChampsRoastery, 1st place winner of Ukrainian Barista Championship 2017. Interested in travelling, football and Formula-1 (besides coffee, of course).

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