Note: The BLACK+DECKER Programmable Coffee Maker is designed for households and offices that need large capacity and everyday convenience. Its programmable timer ensures fresh coffee is ready when you wake up, while the Sneak-A-Cup™ feature lets you pour mid-brew without spills.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Drip Coffee Maker |
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Carafe | Duralife™ glass carafe with ergonomic handle |
| Power | 975 watts |
| Brew Time | 10 minutes for a full pot |
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is designed for households and offices that need large capacity, convenience, and affordability. With programmable features, a sizable carafe, and user-friendly controls, it’s a practical option for everyday coffee drinkers who want reliability without breaking the bank.
What is BLACK+DECKER Programmable Coffee Maker?
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a drip-style brewer that combines everyday functionality with programmable convenience. It’s built for people who want a dependable machine that can brew multiple servings at once.
Key defining traits include:
- 12-cup glass carafe for large batches
- Programmable 24-hour timer for automatic brewing
- Sneak-A-Cup feature to pour mid-brew
- Keep-warm plate to maintain temperature
- Affordable price point compared to premium brewers
This machine is not about luxury or advanced customization—it’s about delivering consistent coffee with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Design and Build Quality
The design is practical, with a plastic housing accented by stainless steel details. It’s lightweight and compact, fitting easily on most countertops.
Design highlights:
- Digital display with clock and programming options
- Glass carafe with ergonomic handle
- Vortex Technology showerhead for even saturation
- Nonstick hot plate to keep coffee warm
- Simple button layout for intuitive use
While the build quality is not premium, it’s durable enough for daily use and emphasizes functionality over aesthetics.
Capacity and Brewing Options
Capacity is one of the strongest selling points. With a 12-cup carafe, this coffee maker is perfect for families, offices, or gatherings.
Brewing options include:
- Full pot brewing for up to 12 cups
- Partial brewing for smaller batches (4–6 cups)
- Sneak-A-Cup function for mid-brew serving
- Keep-warm plate for up to 2 hours
- Auto shut-off for safety and energy efficiency
This flexibility makes it suitable for both large households and solo coffee drinkers, offering versatility without complexity.
Programmable Features and Ease of Use
Ease of use is a major selling point. The programmable timer allows you to set brewing up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring fresh coffee when you wake up.
Convenience features include:
- 24-hour programmable timer
- Digital clock display for easy setup
- Auto shut-off for safety
- Sneak-A-Cup mid-brew option
- One-touch controls for simple operation
These features make it a great option for busy households, where mornings are often rushed and convenience is key.
Brewing Performance and Flavor Results
Performance is solid for its price range. The Vortex Technology showerhead ensures better water distribution, though flavor results are not as refined as high-end brewers.
Performance notes:
- Brew time: ~10 minutes for a full pot
- Flavor profile: bold and strong, especially with dark roasts
- Consistency: reliable results cup after cup
- Temperature control: adequate but not precise
- Strength: hearty coffee suitable for everyday drinking
Overall, it delivers good flavor for the price, though coffee enthusiasts may find it less nuanced compared to specialty brewers.
Cleaning, Maintenance, and Durability
One of the biggest advantages of the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is how easy it is to maintain. Unlike more complex brewers with multiple detachable parts, this machine is designed with simplicity in mind, making daily upkeep quick and stress-free.
Cleaning details:
- Removable Filter Basket – Can be taken out and rinsed or washed, preventing buildup of old grounds.
- Glass Carafe – Dishwasher-safe for effortless cleaning, though it can also be hand-washed for longevity.
- Hot Plate with Nonstick Surface – Wipes clean easily, reducing stains and burnt residue.
- Regular Descaling Recommended – Helps prevent mineral deposits from affecting performance.
- Durable Design – Built to withstand daily use with proper care, ensuring years of reliable brewing.
Beyond the basics, the BLACK+DECKER’s durability is tied to its straightforward engineering. With fewer electronic components than premium brewers, there’s less risk of malfunction.
Pros and Cons of the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker
Every coffee maker has strengths and weaknesses, and the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is no exception.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Large 12-cup capacity
- Programmable timer for convenience
- Sneak-A-Cup feature for mid-brew serving
- Keep-warm function with auto shut-off
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Brew flavor less refined than high-end machines
- Longer brew time compared to smaller brewers
- Limited customization options
- Hot plate can overheat if left too long
Despite its limitations, the value for money is excellent, especially for households that prioritize convenience and capacity.
Final Verdict: Is It the Right Choice for Your Kitchen?
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a budget-friendly, family-sized brewer that delivers reliable performance and practical features. It’s not designed for coffee purists seeking precision brewing, but it excels at providing large batches of coffee quickly and conveniently.
If you want a dependable, affordable, and easy-to-use coffee maker for everyday use, this model is a strong contender. For households or offices that need multiple servings and appreciate programmable convenience, it’s one of the best options in its price range.