Note: The BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew Coffee Maker is ideal for households or small offices that want the freshness of ground beans with the convenience of a drip machine. Its integrated grinder eliminates the need for separate equipment, while programmable features make mornings easier.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Drip Coffee Maker with Integrated Grinder |
| Capacity | 12 cups (60 fl oz / 1.8 L) |
| Brew Time | 10 minutes |
| Grinder | Built‑in grinder |
| Programming | 24‑hour programmable |
The BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew Coffee Maker is a popular choice for coffee lovers who want the convenience of a drip machine combined with the freshness of grinding beans right before brewing.
Overview: What Is the BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew Coffee Maker?
The Mill & Brew is a 12‑cup programmable drip coffee maker that includes a built‑in grinder. It allows users to brew coffee directly from whole beans or pre‑ground coffee, offering flexibility for different preferences.
Key highlights include:
- Integrated grinder with grind‑to‑brew functionality
- Brew strength selector (regular, strong, bold)
- 24‑hour programmable auto‑brew
- Sneak‑A‑Cup® feature for mid‑brew pouring
- Permanent bronze‑tone filter (no paper filters needed)
This combination of features makes it a versatile machine for households that value both convenience and freshness.
Design and Build Quality
The Mill & Brew is designed with practicality in mind. Its compact footprint fits most countertops, while the brushed black and stainless accents give it a modern look.
Design features:
- 12‑cup DuraLife™ glass carafe with ergonomic handle
- Clear water window for easy filling
- Intuitive QuickTouch™ control panel
- Removable filter and grinder assembly for cleaning
While the build is primarily plastic, it feels sturdy enough for daily use. The design prioritizes ease of operation over luxury finishes, which is expected at its price point.
Integrated Grinder and Brewing System
The standout feature is the grind‑to‑brew system, which grinds beans just before brewing to preserve flavor.
System highlights:
- Built‑in grinder attached to the filter basket
- Option to disable grinder when using pre‑ground coffee
- Permanent filter doubles as grinder basket
- Captures essential oils for richer flavor
This integration eliminates the need for a separate grinder, streamlining the brewing process and reducing countertop clutter.
Ease of Use and Setup
The Mill & Brew is designed for everyday convenience, even for beginners.
Ease of use elements:
- Simple programming with LCD display
- Auto‑brew timer for fresh coffee in the morning
- Sneak‑A‑Cup® feature lets you pour before the cycle ends
- Straightforward setup with minimal steps
Its intuitive controls make it accessible to anyone, from casual drinkers to daily coffee enthusiasts.
Brewing Performance and Coffee Flavor
Performance is consistent, with the grinder ensuring fresher flavor compared to pre‑ground coffee.
Brewing results:
- Produces up to 12 cups in one cycle
- Brew strength selector customizes flavor intensity
- Balanced extraction with good aroma retention
- Works well with medium to dark roasts
While it won’t rival high‑end specialty machines, it delivers flavorful coffee that’s noticeably fresher than standard drip makers without grinders.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintenance is straightforward, though regular cleaning is essential to keep the grinder functioning well.
Cleaning features:
- Removable grinder/filter basket for rinsing
- Dishwasher‑safe carafe and filter parts
- Descaling recommended every 1–2 months
- Easy‑wipe exterior for daily upkeep
Proper cleaning ensures consistent flavor and prevents clogging from coffee oils.
Pros and Cons of the BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew Coffee Maker
Every coffee maker has its strengths and weaknesses, and the BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew is no different. Designed to combine grinding and brewing in one unit, it offers convenience and freshness at an affordable price point.
Pros:
- Built‑in grinder for fresher coffee
- 12‑cup capacity suitable for families or offices
- Programmable auto‑brew and strength settings
- Permanent filter reduces paper waste
- Affordable compared to premium grind‑and‑brew models
Cons:
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Grinder can be noisy
- Requires frequent cleaning to avoid buildup
- Limited grind size control compared to standalone grinders
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?
The BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew Coffee Maker strikes a balance between affordability, convenience, and freshness. It’s not a luxury machine, but it offers excellent value for households that want the benefits of freshly ground coffee without investing in separate equipment.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a budget‑friendly grind‑and‑brew coffee maker with reliable performance and easy programmability, the BLACK+DECKER Mill & Brew is a smart choice. It’s best suited for families, small offices, or anyone who wants fresher coffee with minimal effort.