For our third annual Kitchen Gear & Coffee Awards, we’ve added a new breakout category: tea! To find this year's winners, we assessed hundreds of new products in our Good Housekeeping Institute Labs and collected more than 1,200 feedback surveys from GH readers. In the end, our product analysts, Test Kitchen pros and consumer testers agree that these winners are the best kitchen, coffee and tea products to shop now.
Meet the GH Experts
How We Tested
Kitchen Gear Awards | Coffee and Tea Awards
Testing Takeaways
- “It’s good to see more high-quality products being made again. That’s one of the keys to being truly sustainable.” – Nicole Papantoniou, Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab Director
- “It’s fascinating to see how many new products are automating tasks I once did by hand, from growing herbs to making pour-over coffee.” – Eva Bleyer, Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab Reviews Analyst
- “We tested a lot of on-the-go coffee and tea products that really factor in what it means to travel with a beverage.” – Sarah Wharton, Deputy Editor
- “I think we’ll continue to see more multifunctional products like the many we tested for these awards.” – Jamie Ueda, Contributing Senior Analyst
- “Tea dates back to ancient times, but the unique use of ingredients and sustainable sourcing makes it feel new again.” – Stefani Sassos, Nutrition Lab Director
- “It’s amazing to see how kitchen tools and brands are meeting consumers exactly where they want to be.” – Kate Merker, Chief Food Director
- “The tea submissions were in line with the flavor trends we’re seeing. Producers and drinkers have upped their game.” – Susan Choung, Recipe Editor
Some of the ingredients in nonstick cooking sprays can gunk up nonstick cookware and make it less nonstick. This 2-in-1 mister from Cuisinart allows you to use your own oil, so you can lightly and evenly spray your pans or food. (It's also great for air-frying!) It has a small pour spout, too, for bigger jobs.
LAB RESULTS: Deputy Editor Sarah Wharton has been using this gadget in her home for months and hasn't noticed any clogs, a common pain point.
An egg holder may seem basic, but this one from Everything Organizer has advanced features like a pullout drawer with stopper and the ability to store extra things on top of it. It eliminates many pain points of egg holders.
LAB RESULTS: Three different consumer testers thought this was a high-quality egg holder. Several liked the size and thought it was compact but still held a lot of eggs (18).
There are few things worse than realizing you need to replace the batteries on an item you need to use right away. This scale from Ozeri helps prevent that by using kinetic energy to power the screen: Just turn the dial a few times until the battery symbol becomes full, and you'll be ready to go.
LAB RESULTS: This lightweight scale can weigh up to 11 pounds. In our tests, we found it to be quite responsive and accurate. Every tester agreed they loved that it was battery-free.
Baking is often described as an exact science — and working with sugar to make dessert is no different. This CDN thermometer helps make it easier with seven pre-programmed candy settings, including thread, soft, firm and hard balls, caramel and more. Plus, it can reach up to 450ºF, so you can confidently use it for deep-frying too.
LAB RESULTS: In our Lab tests, this thermometer scored high for accuracy and ease of use. We appreciated its digital nature, especially since most candy thermometers are analog.
This is the third year in a row that Rubbermaid's Brilliance glass storage containers are appearing on our list of winners. They continue to be our top-tested storage containers and are a go-to in our Lab and Test Kitchen. This set offers a large container, a medium container and two smaller containers. Each piece is sturdy but lightweight, and the bases can be used in the microwave and oven up to 450ºF.
LAB RESULTS: Testers raved about these containers and they performed great in our leak-proof Lab tests, which is a big plus.
Victorinox is known for sharp, well-priced chef’s knives that have long, wide blades and comfortable handles. This wooden-handled version offers an elevated and weightier design than the plastic-handled kind.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said they were amazed that they could use the same knife to cut cherry tomatoes, crusty bread and grilled chicken with very little pressure — and our Lab testers agree!
We love a good spice crusher, especially if it can be used with one hand like this one from Finamill. It charges via a USB cable, and the cartridges can be swapped out with a simple push, so you can use the same unit to grind peppercorns, coarse salt, cumin and more without having to empty any containers.
LAB RESULTS: Several consumer testers shared that they used theirs to grind coffee beans for meat rubs. What a brilliant idea!
As more and more self-watering indoor gardens hit the market, the trailblazing Aerogarden continues to innovate and stand out from competitors for being easy to use and affordable. This slim version, part of the popular Harvest collection, can grow up to six varieties of herbs, salad greens, veggies and flowers at a time.
LAB RESULTS: We tested this model in our Lab and at home, growing bountiful crops of mint, parsley, thyme, dill and two types of basil. It required minimal maintenance; a light blinked when it needed more water or plant food.
This modern-looking ceramic fruit bowl from Kamenstein comes in an assortment of matte colors with a cork lid. It's designed to store ingredients on both the bottom and top.
LAB RESULTS: Testers complimented the pretty design, and several noted that they would continue to use it after testing. One said it's become a permanent fixture on their counter; another said they really like how they can now keep produce like onions that usually require a dark storage area close by.
The microwave isn’t just for reheating — you can cook almost anything in it, from eggs and grains to proteins and desserts. And this glass cookware set from Anyday can help. It comes complete with different sizes of dishes and flat lids that can be vented.
LAB RESULTS: GH kitchen product analysts continue to find unique ways to use this set, including frying shallots and toasting nuts. It also performs well when cooking rice and veggies, saving tons of time. Bonus: The set is easy to clean and can be used for storing food as well.
This maple end-grain cutting board from Boardsmith is designed to last. It’s two inches thick and offers a natural, eye-catching design. Unlike many other boards of its kind, it comes with feet that raise it off the counter and allow for air circulation.
LAB RESULTS: One at-home consumer tester called it “exceptional.” Another said, “The surface makes cutting vegetables feel enjoyable, even luxurious.”
Thin, durable and knife-friendly cutting boards are hard to find, especially oversize ones like this one from Epicurean. It can handle both everyday tasks and large roasts and has a built-in juice groove on one side. Plus, it’s made of a paper composite rather than plastic or wood, which can wear out quickly or need special care.
LAB RESULTS: We’ve been using this cutting board in our homes for years. It is one of our go-tos and continues to withstand endless washings.
While pepper grinders have been around forever, we've seen quite a few new models hit the market in recent years. This one from Peugeot, our top pick for best manual pepper grinder, is specifically designed for outdoor use. It's oversized with a large hook you can hang on your grill shelf and features a built-in light.
LAB RESULTS: Testers liked how easily this pepper mill was to use. They said it felt high quality and commented on the benefits of the light.
This Material set comes with three essential knives so you can cut a wide variety of ingredients — big and small, soft and crunchy. The sharp, durable blades are made from Japanese steel and store elegantly on a sleek stand.
LAB RESULTS: These knives have comfortable handles, and their design encourages a good grip. Plus, they’re pretty! One tester said, “It is the best-looking magnetic stand I’ve seen. It would make a beautiful wedding or housewarming gift.”
This pepper grinder from Mannkitchen is comfortable to hold and grinds quickly. It comes with a cover that you can grind right into, perfect for when a recipe calls for a specific amount of freshly ground black pepper. (The cover doubles as a base for the grinder and storage.)
LAB RESULTS: Testers said this pepper grinder was easy to use and fill and several commented on its fine grind, with one noting that "it felt fancy." It also produced the largest output in the shortest amount of time in our Lab tests.
The Meater+ smart thermometer won a Kitchen Gear Award last year for being foolproof, with a user-friendly app. This year’s winner is a stand with built-in display that includes four thermometers, so you can keep track of different foods on the unit or in the app.
LAB RESULTS: We liked that we didn’t need to reach for our phones to keep track of our food (but could if we wanted to!), since the block displayed the internal temps of foods, alerted us when they were almost ready and kept track of rest times.
With their many parts, juicers can be a pain to set up and clean. This one from Omega has fewer and easier-to-clean parts than many we tested. And it is self-feeding, which means you can add all the ingredients to the chamber at once instead of feeding them in one by one.
LAB RESULTS: This juicer has a solid footprint but isn’t heavy or bulky to move or store. It was able to juice apples and carrots without much effort — and we could skip cutting the apples, which can be a nuisance!
Lettuce Grow, known for its large vertical hydroponic gardens that you can use inside and outside, recently introduced the Farmstand Nook for smaller indoor spaces. It can hold up to 20 plants, from herbs to lettuces, fruits and veggies. One thing that sets Lettuce Grow apart from competitors is the way it sells its seeds: They arrive as sprouted seedlings, which gives you a head start on growing.
LAB RESULTS: The Farmstand Nook was easy to set up and maintain in our tests. It produced an abundance of tasty produce over several months with little hands-on care.
Slow juicing aficionados will appreciate this juicer from Kuvings that delivers big on build and results. It's sturdy and self-feeding with three different sized feed tubes and a large pulp dispenser. The on/off switch is located on the side for easy juicing.
LAB RESULTS: We've tested a lot of juicers in the Lab, and our analyst said this one was one of the top performing. It was quick and produced a lot of juice, and we barely tasted any pulp when we juiced apples and carrots. The juices were sweet, too, and didn't taste bitter, which can sometimes happen when ingredients are over-processed.
This high-quality Vitamix comes with all the accessories you need to blend, chop, slice and shred. The bundle includes a 64-ounce blender jar, a 12-cup food processor bowl, a chopping blade and four disks for slicing, shredding and cutting. It is compatible with portable blending cups (not included) and uses smart technology to detect what part is being used.
LAB RESULTS: This Vitamix came out on top in our tests, in which we evaluated eight models side by side. The included food processor attachments take it to the next level.
As induction cooking becomes more popular, Miele’s induction cooktop excels thanks to a sleek design, a responsive touchscreen and a wide variety of burners that accommodate pans of different sizes. It can be connected to a Miele ventilation hood for seamless cooking and to fight food odors.
LAB RESULTS: We love that this cooktop has markings on each burner to let you use small pots on large burners. This feature isn’t very common yet, but it’s important because induction cooktops tend to work best when the cookware and burner sizes match.
Many of us dream of having the space for a large refrigerator — and this built-in from Signature Kitchen Suite stops us in our tracks. It's loaded with features that maximize storage space, like multiple adjustable shelves and a convertible drawer that can work as a fridge or freezer. Other features like its dual ice maker make it even greater for entertaining or a large family.
LAB RESULTS: Our team is a fan of French-door fridges that allow you to easily see inside. The four freezer drawers help with organizing and allow for less rummaging.
We’ve seen lots of inserts that allow you to divide what you’re cooking between a sheet pan and some specialty baking pans. This sheet pan from GoodCook gives you the best of both worlds with sections that allow simultaneous cooking of different foods and variations.
LAB RESULTS: Testers noted that cooking on these pans was quick and meats came out juicy. We loved how we could keep fish flavors separate from veggies.
A good waffle maker can elevate any meal experience. This one from Chefman is slim and has a compact footprint but still makes thick, fluffy Belgian waffles. Its plates are designed to help prevent spills on your counter. It comes with a scoop to help you get perfectly sized waffles.
LAB RESULTS: Testers liked how nonstick this waffle maker was. One tester also thought the anti-overflow feature was neat, and they offered a good tip: “For those who want that perfect waffle shape, pull or cut [the excess batter} ring off.”
This Babish nonstick pan is a great value. It feels sturdy but is lightweight, especially for a 12-inch pan, and is comfortable to hold. It has a wide cooking surface and relatively short walls. It's oven-safe up to 500ºF.
LAB RESULTS: Eggs slid off this pan in our tests and were easy to clean. One consumer tester said, "I loved how nothing stuck to it, even without using any oil."
Carbon steel pans are becoming more and more popular. Like cast iron, they can handle high temps and develop a nonstick patina over time, but they weigh less. We appreciate that this one from Oxo is pre-seasoned, has a wide surface area and comes with a silicone handle cover.
LAB RESULTS: Though it’s made of a less familiar home-cookware material, testers thought this pan was easy to use and produced good results. Almost all raved about its durability.
Fans of slow cookers (and those who haven’t yet been converted) will be impressed by this model from Proctor Silex that comes with a 6-qt ceramic crock and two nonstick inserts so you can cook (or keep warm) two foods at once.
LAB RESULTS: Our resident slow cooker tester, Deputy Editor Sarah Wharton, said beef stew made in this unit was very tasty. She also kept black beans and queso warm in it for four hours without noticing any scorching.
Heft can be a sign of quality, but this recycled-aluminum cookware set from Farberware proves that lightweight pots and pans can be great too. They’re a pleasure to use and clean.
LAB RESULTS: In our tests, the skillet heated quickly and completely evenly (which is rare) and made a beautifully browned steak. The handles stayed cool during all tests.
This slow cooker from Crockpot is proof that slow cookers are here to stay — it has a modern design with digital features and the ability to cook using sous vide. It also comes with a probe so you can monitor the internal temperature of your food, perfect for roasts or tender chicken.
LAB RESULTS: Testers thought this slow cooker was easy to use and clean. Several noted that they liked the digital features. It also introduced a couple of testers to sous vide cooking; one tester said it made it “easy and delicious.”
The large surface area and the mostly straight but softly flared walls on this ceramic nonstick Everything Pan from Kilne make it possible to brown food nicely, braise with the self-basting lid and even fry.
LAB RESULTS: Our Lab analysts and Test Kitchen and consumer testers boasted about this pan in their reviews. It heated evenly in our tests; testers liked the lid, saying it fit the pan well and stored neatly.
This griddle from Made In combines trends we’re seeing more and more of: the use of griddles and the use of carbon steel. It can be used indoors and outside over an open flame. It offers a large cooking area and handles that are offset to help keep them cool during cooking.
LAB RESULTS: Wharton, who has tested many griddles over the years, enjoyed using this one in her home, where she said she got good, even cooking results. Consumer testers also liked how evenly it cooked, and some particularly liked that it came pre-seasoned and ready to use.
Nonstick cookware can feel flimsy, but not this set from Circulon. Each piece is solid, with a sturdy handle, but is easy to maneuver. The surface is textured (a sign of a quality nonstick coating) and has a circular pattern on the cooking area; both help with scratch resistance.
LAB RESULTS: This cookware set got top scores in our tests for even heating, good browning and easy cleanup. Even with many nonstick sets on the market, testers agreed that this one was award-worthy.
If you’re tight on space and don’t want to compromise on quality, these pots from De Buyer are perfect for you. They’re heavy-duty but still manageable to handle, and they nest for storage. A removable handle attaches securely and detaches easily with the press of a button.
LAB RESULTS: “These pans were beautiful, functional and high-quality. They made cooking and cleanup a cinch,” said one consumer tester. “I’m always looking for things that are high-quality, functional and beautiful, and these exceeded my expectations.”
This bakeware from Hestan is designed to last a very long time — it’s made of high-quality stainless steel with an aluminum core. It’s oven-safe up to 600ºF and can withstand all sorts of heavy-duty cooking and roasting.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said, “I’ve never had a set of pans that was so substantial.” Several liked how easy these were to clean. We found ourselves constantly reaching for the quarter-size sheet pan to cook and reheat small meals.
This cookware set from Bloomhouse is made of high-quality stainless steel, and its exteriors are among the smoothest and glossiest we’ve seen. Each piece has an ivory-colored ceramic interior for less sticking and easy cleanup; plus, the set comes with two ceramic steamers, one large and one small.
LAB RESULTS: We’ve tested more than 150 cookware sets in the Kitchen Appliances Lab, and these stand out for their upscale design, quality performance and reasonable price.
Air fryers continue to innovate. This one from Dreo allows you to cook with steam so you can get moist and crisp results. It comes with a built-in temperature probe that helps regulate the process for perfect cooking, and it has upgraded features like a color touchscreen, more than 40 presets, guided cooking, a light and more.
LAB RESULTS: Our Lab analyst said this air fryer made perfectly cooked salmon (one of our favorite things to air-fry). It also made golden and particularly good wings.
These sturdy ceramic-coated pans from Caraway are made from aluminized steel with stainless steel handles. They come in an assortment of muted colors with a light gray interior. All pieces nest except for the round cake pans, and the set comes with a holder to help keep things neat and prevent scratching.
LAB RESULTS: Testers loved this bakeware set. They all enjoyed using it, and many remarked on how well it prevented food from sticking. The pans browned food nicely in our tests.
These ceramic-coated, hard-adonized pans from GreenPan have some heft to them but won’t weigh you down. They’re design-forward, too — the cream color caught our eye and held up during tests. The set even comes with silicone cooking utensils.
LAB RESULTS: We liked the weight and look of these pots and pans. The skillet heated evenly in our tests and made a nicely browned steak. The pans cleaned up nicely, and we were able to remove any cooking stains on the outside with Barkeeper’s Friend.
Before electric pressure cookers became all the rage, there was the stovetop pressure cooker. This one from Fissler comes with two sizes of pots, a glass lid and a steamer insert. The interchangeable pressure-cooking lid locks onto each pot smoothly and lets you know when it’s properly closed.
LAB RESULTS: This lid has a built-in oversize pressure valve that allows you to adjust the pressure level, which wasn’t possible with your mother’s stovetop pressure cooker.
Electric ranges offer an affordable alternative to people looking to switch from gas. This Hisense range is sleek, powerful and easy to use, with an intuitive control panel. It has a good assortment of burner sizes that can accommodate large and small pots as well as several sizes in between.
LAB RESULTS: In our Lab tests, the oven distributed heat evenly and produced beautifully golden cakes. The broiler was powerful and quickly made a juicy steak.
Stanley introduced a new tumbler category that sparked many copycats with the launch of its 40-ounce stainless steel cup. This upgraded version has an easy-to-grip handle and a splash-resistant straw opening.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said, “I take it everywhere! I’d buy one in every color if I could.” Some said it helped them drink more water.
This seltzer maker from Drinkmate stands out from others on the market for its ability to be used with all sorts of liquids. The cap on the bottle allows gas to be released before you open it so liquid won’t spill everywhere.
LAB RESULTS: Some testers who had once bought sparkling water said they now used this unit almost every day. Our analysts even tried it with cold coffee!
Aquasana makes drinking filtered water easy. Its Under Sink Water Filter System connects directly to your cold water line without any additional plumbing. It only works when you use your cold water, so no need to worry about wasting filtered water on washing dishes with hot water for example. The filter is replaced by simply twisting off.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said that they liked using this product for its convenience — it came in handy for drinking from the tap and filling their coffee carafe and cooking pots.
Sodastream offers a wide variety of sparkling water makers. This is one of its newest. It has a small footprint and can be used with 1 liter or .5 liter bottles that are dishwasher-safe. It features three carbonation levels and upgraded buttons; a light illuminates when it's in use.
LAB RESULTS: This sparkling water maker was popular among home testers. It scored high for being easy to use. Testers said they liked that they could control the amount of carbonation with the press of a button — one of our favorite features as well.
Ninja is another brand that’s making waves in the homemade soda industry. The Thirsti offers a more automated way to create and dispense still and sparkling drinks, and it’s highly customizable.
LAB RESULTS: This single-serve machine allows you to pick your level of bubbles and the size of the pour, and it gives you the option of flavoring your drink with Ninja flavored water drops.
Count on Brita to offer an even-easier-to-use water-filter system. This countertop model has a removable 96-ounce reservoir.
LAB RESULTS: Our favorite part of this machine is that it can dispense manually or automatically (meaning we can walk away while our giant water bottles and 12-ounce cups are being filled).
Riedel is known for its exceptional wine glasses. This line offers an approachable entry point for wine drinkers looking to explore varietal-specific glasses. This red wine glass is sturdy and durable with a nice sized bowl. It's dishwasher-safe, which ranks high in our book.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said, "This glassware was the perfect drinkware for either a casual or more formal occasion." Another said, "I enjoyed drinking wine from this glass. It has a thin lip that allows one to fully appreciate the aroma of the wine."
This electric skillet from Beautiful, will stand out on any countertop or serving table in terms of color and design. The square cooker and base is lightweight with handles that are easy to grasp. It has five temperature settings, ranging from low to high, so you can keep foods warm, or use it as an additional appliance to cook in when all your burners are in use. Plus, it comes with with a lid holder to really make entertaining easy.
LAB RESULTS: Our Lab analyst tested this by making a braised lemon chicken thigh recipe. The chicken browned nicely and it had plenty of room to cook. The sauce reduced nicely, too, and was flavorful.
This blender, from Drew Barrymore’s line of kitchen appliances called Beautiful, allows you to blend ingredients and dispense the result through the spout. So fun!
LAB RESULTS: Testers made a variety of items, from smoothies and frozen coffee drinks to snow cones. The shaved-ice feature “really exceeded my expectations,” said one. The blender scored high in our Lab tests too; it made smooth and creamy smoothies and margaritas.
Entertainment and food preparation in one: This appliance from Swissmar gently cooks protein and veggies on the reversible cast-iron grill/griddle attachment while warming cheese, sauces, bread and more on the trays below.
LAB RESULTS: Consumer testers enjoyed using this product at home with family members. One said they used it at least six different times with consistent results. Another warmed peaches in the trays and said they came out “beautifully broiled.”
This cooler from Permasteel is even more eye-catching in person. It comes in an assortment of colors, and each of the two doors opens upward for easy access. It’s equipped with a handy bottle opener and a container for stashing the caps.
LAB RESULTS: The neatest thing about this cooler on wheels is that the cooler is not attached to the base — you can remove it to use it on its own and take it places. Mind-blowing!
With so many pizza ovens on the market, it’s hard to decide which one to get. Solo Stove makes the whole pizza-making experience easy with the gas-powered Pi Prime. It's lightweight, especially if you remove the pizza stone before you move it, and it turns on quickly.
LAB RESULTS: This pizza oven is one of the easiest to set up of those we tried. A tester who had never used a pizza oven before raved about her results and said, “I love it and want to keep using it forever.”
This Yeti cooler won a Kitchen Gear Award last year as well. It offers superior temperature retention and a sturdy handle and oversize wheels that make it a joy to wheel around. It comes with a small dry bin, and it features a drain in the middle of the base for easy cleaning.
LAB RESULTS: A tester confirmed that it kept cold for a very long time — over 24 hours. We like its solid design that continues to stand up to different terrains. We pulled it up and down stairs as well and found it to be strong and easy to maneuver.
Electric grills are especially good for people who live in apartments [and have outdoor space]. This compact one from Weber can reach over 600°F and is equipped to sear, steam and smoke. It comes in several colors.
LAB RESULTS: Testers cooked a variety of foods — including fish, meat and veggies — on this grill. They praised how quickly it heated up and the quality of the grates. In tests, we got great grill marks on chicken and steak, a feat that can be difficult for electric grills.
Outdoor griddles have become quite popular, and Weber elevated that experience this year with the introduction of its Flat Top Grill. It offers a premium design compared to competitors, including oversize side shelves and storage space.
LAB RESULTS: Testers loved cooking on this griddle. They used it to cook all sorts of meat and breakfast items. One tester said, "I like that every inch of space on the cook surface is usable. Everything cooked evenly." Another said, "It takes outdoor cooking to a new level."
Our top-tested Kamado grill got an update this year — the new digital control panel monitors the air temp and comes with a probe for food. The grill connects to an app that offers tips for best results.
LAB RESULTS: One of our trusty grill testers said the grill was easy to start and they liked how the removable heat deflector shielded food from the flames. It made juicy chicken and tender ribs.
This 24-inch refrigerator from Thor is rated for both indoor and outdoor use and can be built-in or freestanding. It features 5.4 cubic feet of storage between two pullout drawers.
LAB RESULTS: Our tester used this in her backyard and said the drawers helped with storage and organization. She appreciated the size of each drawer and commented on the overall sturdiness of the product
The Gozney Dome continues to turn heads as a second-time Kitchen Gear Award winner. The outdoor pizza oven has a showstopping design and can be used with gas or wood. Its features are all easily accessible from the front, including a digital thermometer that reads the oven temp and probes for food. (Yes! You can use your pizza oven for more than just pizza.)
LAB RESULTS: Chief Food Director Kate Merker had a blast working with this pizza oven. She enjoyed using it to make pizza for her family as well as other recipes like spatchcock chicken.
Coffee grinders can be loud. This one from Proctor Silex muffles the sound by incorporating two lids into its design. It’s small yet powerful, and the grinding container comes out so you can easily fill your coffee filter.
LAB RESULTS: Contributing Senior Analyst Jamie Ueda noticed that this coffee grinder was quieter than others she tested side by side with it. Two of our home testers commented that it was quiet as well.
Igloo, a brand best known for its coolers, now makes drinkware that offers both function and performance. This 16-ounce tumbler can be used for hot or cold drinks. It has a stainless steel interior and is double-walled. We like the one-piece cap that is easy to clean and doesn’t have hidden crevices, which are typically hard to clean on travel mugs.
LAB RESULTS: This tumbler scored highest among consumers. One said it kept their drinks the perfect temperature. Many, including us, liked the slim design and how it fit well into cupholders.
The popular AeroPress has become even more portable with parts that nest.
LAB RESULTS: We’ve always been impressed by the richness and deliciousness of the coffee from the AeroPress. This version feels easier to use and makes us want to book a trip ASAP. It’s great for the office too.
While this French press from Hydro Flask is great on the go, it’s also great indoors. It’s small and compact with a silicone-wrapped base and handle. It’s made of double-walled stainless steel and helps keep coffee hot — a tricky feat for French presses, which usually are made of glass and don't use super-hot water for brewing.
LAB RESULTS: Testers loved how durable this coffee maker was, and they said it was easy to use and clean. One tester who had six different coffee makers at home said this became her and her husband’s go-to for an afternoon pick-me-up.
This Oxo kettle is perfect for making coffee or tea. The gooseneck offers a steady pour for pour-over coffee, while the knob allows you to specify a water temperature for coffee or tea.
LAB RESULTS: The temperature on the control panel matched the temperature on our thermometer during our tests. Testers liked how quickly it heated water.
This second-time winner from Mr. Coffee is a great value. It easily brews single-serve coffee, hot or over ice. Plus, it has a built-in frother so you can enjoy a specialty drink at home. Its relatively small footprint is notable for a machine that can do so many things.
LAB RESULTS: The multifunctionality of this product is great. One tester said it was the best coffee maker they’d ever had. Consumers liked its versatility and how it was a single-serve coffee maker with a reusable basket, brewing from grounds rather than coffee pods.
This Espro French press has been one of our top French press picks for years. It has a large 32-ounce capacity and is made of double-walled stainless steel, which helps keep coffee hot. It has an oversize handle and pours nicely. The best part is that it features two fine-mesh strainers that help keep the coffee smooth and as sediment-free as possible.
LAB RESULTS: “The product makes consistent and delicious coffee within a few minutes,” said one tester. “Assembly was easy.”
Coffee fans know that ratios are important. Changing the amount of coffee grounds vs. water changes the taste, so if you’re looking for a consistent cup, a scale is key. This one from Fellow can read measurements down to 0.1 gram. It also has a feature that lets you select the ratio of coffee to water based on the type of coffee you're brewing and measure accordingly. It includes a timer too, for the perfect steep.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said it was extremely responsive and liked how easy it was to toggle between the units of measure.
The ability to froth milk right in your cup sets this single-serve coffee maker from Lavazza apart from others on the market. It also delivers quality espresso and coffee drinks with just the touch of a couple of buttons.
LAB RESULTS: Ueda has tested at least 50 coffee makers for us over the years, and she noted that this one was unique. It’s been set up in our Lab now for a couple of months, and users find it easy to use and delicious. Consumer testers liked the small footprint and the one-step cappuccino and latte features.
Espresso makers with auto-dispensing milk frothers make creating cappuccinos and lattes so much easier. This one from Jura, which connects to the brand’s E6 machine, is one of the only ones we’ve seen that you can keep on your counter while it keeps the milk cold.
LAB RESULTS: It can be a pain to remove a milk container from an espresso maker and store it in the fridge, especially if you forget to clean it out before the milk goes bad. This container eliminates that problem, and we love how much more accessible it makes creating a specialty drink.
Cuisinart does it again — this time with a coffee maker that can make a full pot of drip coffee and is compatible with K-cups, custom K-cups and Nespresso pods! It also has a built-in milk frother.
LAB RESULTS: Each part of this coffee maker worked well in our Lab tests. One tester said the coffee was hot and flavorful; another thought this was a great multitasker.
The classic Moccamaster gets an upgrade with this model, which has a thermal carafe with a glass lining. The coffee maker has a basic, no-frills design and turns on with just one button. It makes hot, full-bodied coffee.
LAB RESULTS: We found that the inside of this coffee carafe was easier to clean than others made entirely of stainless steel. Testers liked the coffee it made; one tester said the coffee was outstanding, and another said they’d continue using this machine. A couple of testers noted that it kept their coffee hot.
This coffee maker from De’Longhi is one of a kind — it looks like an automatic espresso machine with a large hopper for beans, but it’s actually a single-serve drip coffee maker. It features a user-friendly control panel and can make an assortment of sizes and strengths. It even has a 3-oz option that uses more pressure than the drip coffee maker options for an espresso-like shot.
LAB RESULTS: This unique single-serve option makes a delicious cuppa. The water reservoir is easy to fill, and the machine is easier to maintain than others we tested with similar designs. Testers loved the convenience and quality of the coffee.
This luxurious coffee maker from Wolf Gourmet is full of bells and whistles that make it worth the splurge. It's a top performer in Lab tests and has a lot of easy-to-use features. The filter holder slides out so you can fill it without having to move the machine from below your cabinets, and the reservoir can be removed so you can fill it at your sink. It also features a scale that tells you how much coffee to add based on the number of cups you input.
LAB RESULTS: Our favorite thing about this coffee maker is its carafe, which has a large opening. Most thermal carafes are narrow, making it hard to fit your hands inside to clean them, but this one eliminates that problem.
Serious coffee drinkers will love this single-serve xBloom coffee maker. It uses capsules filled with whole beans to make pour-over coffee and features a small oscillating pouring head to saturate the freshly ground beans evenly and brew right in your cup. The settings are customizable.
LAB RESULTS: The fresh, well-rounded taste of the coffee makes this a coffee lover’s dream.
This style of espresso maker is one of our favorites. While this one from Smeg is tall, it still feels compact. It has a hidden hopper and a built-in grinder for the freshest cups. The milk frother is simple but works well.
LAB RESULTS: Users liked the look of this machine as well as its ease of use, convenience and multifunctionality. They also thought it was high-quality, and every one said it should win a Coffee Award. It performed well in Lab tests too.
Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine With Grinder
Breville espresso makers often stand out in our Lab tests. This new one has a color touchscreen that guides you through the espresso- and espresso-drink-making process with images and tips.
LAB results We couldn’t believe how smart this espresso maker was; once we picked a recipe, it told us how much espresso to brew and what temp to steam the milk to — and then kept track!
Some canned coffee tastes fake and has a bitter aftertaste, but this cold brew from illy is smooth and well-rounded. It’s a reliable go-to whether you’re on the run or you want to keep a bunch of cans stashed in your fridge.
LAB RESULTS: Our coffee-testing judge, Kaleena Teoh, described the flavor as chocolatey and nutty. Almost every home tester described it as smooth. Several appreciated how convenient the cans were.
This illy coffee is one of the brand’s bestsellers. It’s made from nine varieties of Arabica beans (the coffee industry’s top beans) and offers a rich, strong blend. It's sold pre-ground for ease of use and consistency, and it’s packaged in the brand’s screw-top can.
LAB RESULTS: Lab analysts noted that this coffee tasted a little nutty with chocolate notes. Teoh picked up on some chocolatey notes as well as caramel ones. She also described it as smoky. It’s balanced with low acidity. It was one of our testers’ favorite ground coffees.
These grounds from Aldi are from Sumatra, an island in Indonesia. They’re made with 100% Arabica coffee beans, the coffee industry’s premium grade, and also fair-trade certified.
LAB RESULTS: All our tasters who said they preferred dark roasts liked this coffee. Two described it as earthy, and another two said it was bold. Teoh detected notes of chocolate.
Selling beans from lesser-known coffee regions, Atlas Coffee Club is known for its subscription service based on your preferences and what coffee machine you have. Now the company has introduced single-serve pods filled with the same premium coffee it sells in bags, with a finer grind than the coffee in competitors’ pods for a more full-bodied cup.
LAB RESULTS: Testers liked the robust taste of coffee made from the pods.
Peace Coffee’s Ecopods are made with paper filters and are brewed through a filter as opposed to a plastic cup like most competitors. They’re compostable in industrial facilities, which means they can break down with the proper amount of moisture, heat and oxygen. The pods feature the B-corp-certified brand’s dark signature blend.
LAB RESULTS: This coffee was one of our consumer testers’ favorites. It scored high for flavor, innovation and packaging. Teoh described it as a “good dark roast with sweetness.”
Take a short quiz and Trade will customize your recurring coffee delivery by grind, flavor profile and even how many cups you drink per day. The coffee is sourced from among more than 450 that are crafted by roasters nationwide, and the company also offers gift sets and equipment.
LAB RESULTS: Four testers, including two Lab analysts, stated that they were matched with coffee they liked and would buy again.
Big Island Coffee Roasters sells coffee grown and roasted in Hawaii. The company was founded to work with coffee growers and share the island’s unique processing technique (some growers use wine yeast to kickstart fermentation!). The brand’s coffee-of-the-month club introduces you to coffee based on your preferred roast.
LAB RESULTS: Teoh liked the medium roast she was sent, calling it sweet and nutty.
These premium pods from the Difference Coffee Company are compatible with the original line of Nespresso machines. They feature coffee from the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, which the brand notes is celebrated for having a mellow, chocolatey flavor. The beautiful box with 10 pods in it makes the set feel special from the start.
LAB RESULTS: Lab analysts agreed that these pods felt special from both a packaging perspective and a taste perspective. The espresso was full-bodied with a nice silky crema. It had a deep flavor with mild acidity that made us want to drink more and savor it.
This powdered mix from Mud\Wtr contains a blend of mushrooms, spices and tea that whips up into a slightly creamy coffee-like drink that tastes like a spiced hot chocolate of sorts. It has less caffeine than coffee, and mushrooms are touted as having several health benefits.
LAB RESULTS: One tester said, “It tastes as if it was made with quality ingredients.” Another said, “It’s a perfect afternoon pick-me-up, especially for cold weather.” We agree with both sentiments!
Go on, add Kahlúa-flavored CoffeeMate creamer to your morning coffee — it has no alcohol but adds the subtle creamy flavor you love.
LAB RESULTS: Testers agreed that this creamer tasted like Kahlúa even without actually containing any. We loved it in iced espressos.
This creamer is made with a by-product of Chobani’s yogurt-making process — natural cream — blended with real milk and sweetened with cane sugar.
LAB RESULTS: This creamer converted at least two Lab testers who normally drank their coffee black. One tester described it as “rich and tasty”; another said they would “definitely purchase it in the future.”
Alternative milks can be thin and hard to blend in, but Barista Blend oat milk from Califia Farms is creamy and froths well, and it has a subtle vanilla flavor.
LAB RESULTS: Home testers liked the flavor and commented that it didn’t taste artificial. One tester even used it in oatmeal.
This nondairy whipped cream from Whipshots, made in collaboration with Cardi B., is infused with vodka. It’s shelf-stable, so you don’t need to refrigerate it.
LAB RESULTS: This was one of the most fun products we tested. It’s alcohol-forward but perfectly sweet and creamy. We enjoyed it in coffee, on ice cream and other desserts and on its own. It comes in lime, vanilla, mocha and caramel flavors.
Expert Advice: Find Your Favorite Coffee
- Identify what roast you prefer: light, medium or dark.
- Whole-bean coffee will taste fresher than pre-ground, but buy what’s easiest for you.
- Try beans from various countries of origin. You might find a surprise favorite!
– Kaleena Teoh, Cofounder and Director of Education at Coffee Project NY
This sweet tea from Milo's is indeed sweet, but in a good, balanced way. Made with real ingredients like pure cane sugar and tea leaves, it’s quite refreshing.
LAB RESULTS: One tester summed it up perfectly: “I normally don’t drink sweet tea but was pleasantly surprised that this was not too sweet,” they said. “I thought they used quality tea leaves too. The tea was brewed just right, not weak or too strong.”
This chai from DAVIDsTEA stood out among all the chais that applied. Caffeine-free and organic, it features top ingredients like Vietnamese cinnamon, Guatemalan cardamom and Madagascan clove.
LAB RESULTS: Our analysts described this as “smooth with some astringency.” The ginger, cinnamon and clove notes were forward, but the overall flavor was pleasant and balanced. One consumer said, “It was delightful.” Another said, “I am a loose-leaf tea snob, and this is one of the best-tasting teas I’ve ever had.”
This jasmine tea from Rishi is one of the brand’s top-selling products. It’s organic and has a lovely floral scent that’s slightly sweet. The sachets offer ample room for the leaves to steep, and brewing directions for optimal enjoyment are offered on the back of the packet.
LAB RESULTS: Choung said, “It smells lovely and floral and aromatic but not cloying. You can tell it’s a high-quality tea.” She described the flavor as gorgeous and robust.
iLola makes loose-leaf tea in disc form so you can enjoy the premeasured convenience of a tea bag without the bag. The leaves are held together with a proprietary cellulose binding that allows them to loosen beautifully in a strainer.
LAB RESULTS: Tea-tasting judge Susan Choung thought this tea “had a refreshing mint flavor that was pleasant, along with light tannins.”
Boba are chewy tapioca balls that are used to make boba tea, a classically sweet Taiwanese drink. The drink is normally enjoyed away from home, but Bobabam has created pouches that allow you to make seven different flavors yourself. Just microwave it and add it to a cup with ice and milk or water for a treat.
LAB RESULTS: This drink was easy to make, and our testers thought the boba had a good chew and weren’t too sweet.
Briefly aged in a whiskey barrel, this loose black tea from Oliver Pluff & Co. smells smoky with a hint of sweetness. It also has a smoky flavor — but a subtle one.
LAB RESULTS: One trend we’re starting to see more and more of: tea in mocktails. One tester suggested serving this over ice, while another said it would be great on a cold, snowy day.
Tea lovers will swoon over this monthly tea subscription from Sips By. It includes four premium teas that are mailed to subscribers after they fill out a survey that identifies their preferences. The brand offers caffeinated, non-caffeinated, loose, bagged, flavored and unflavored options, and it is source from 100+ tea brands.
LAB RESULTS: Consumer testers loved receiving this assortment of teas. Several liked the packaging and the description that came in the box with brewing instructions. They also liked the variety of flavors.
Warm liquids can be soothing, and this blend from Traditional Medicinals is designed to support throat health. It smells sweet and like licorice. It’s also slightly woody. It’s organic, and the brand is B-corp certified.
LAB RESULTS: Lab analysts called this warming and refreshing. One said it was a wintertime staple in her home. Almost all consumer testers said it was soothing.
"Tea can be quite hydrating and arguably even healthier than water, since it carries loads of nutritious properties," says Nutrition Lab Director Stefani Sassos. This product from The Tea Spot helps you drink even more. It screws onto most mason jars and has a built in strainer so you can filter your cold-brewed tea as you pour.
LAB RESULTS: Lab Analyst Eva Bleyer loves using hers to make herbal cold brew teas like hibiscus, and she says the flavor deepens over time without getting bitter. Plus, drinking tea is just more fun than drinking water!
This tea sampler from The Tea Spot is appealing to both tea newbies and tea aficionados. It features 16 tea sachets in different flavors to allow drinkers to find their favorite. Each packet shows the type of tea, ingredients, steeping instructions and the approximate level of caffeine.
LAB RESULTS: We loved all of the clean-tasting flavors. Plus, we felt good about the fact that most contained only real ingredients.
This tea from Vahdam is from India and is beautifully packaged and smells rich. It has a sweet and deep aroma, and the leaves look large and fresh. Organic and made with turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, lemongrass and bergamot flavor, it’s one of the brand's best-selling teas.
LAB RESULTS: A couple of consumer testers described this tea as spicy; all said it was flavorful. One tester enjoyed the “rich, golden color” of the tea it brewed. Analysts agreed that it was balanced.
This matcha from Jade Leaf has a beautiful green color and offers a smooth mouthfeel. It’s made from first-harvested tea leaves, contributing to its smoothness. It’s organic and farm-direct from Japan.
LAB RESULTS: Lab analysts recognized this as a high-quality matcha. They commented on the grassy notes and enjoyed the creamy, lasting flavor. One said it was “not too bracing” and that they were “happy to drink it without any milk or sweetener.”
This double-walled Nordic mug from DAVIDsTEA has a large handle and is comfortable to hold even when filled with hot water. A strainer sits inside the mug for easy brewing from loose leaves, and the lid acts as a holder for the strainer.
LAB RESULTS: Lab analysts loved the convenience of this mug, which allows you to brew the perfect amount without spilling. Our tea sommelier, judge Gabrielle Jammal, recommends this style of strainer for the best brewing because it allows leaves to steep fully.
You’ve likely seen Firebelly’s double-walled insulated mug all over social media. It’s designed to brew loose leaves right in the container without the need to take them out after steeping — simply push down the insert to stop the infusion. The insert also doubles as an ice holder.
LAB RESULTS: We liked the markings on the inside of the cup that suggested how far we should fill it for hot and cold tea. It is slim and comfortable to hold and didn’t leak in our tests.
This fragrant black tea from Magic Hour smells sweet and warm. It comes in a beautiful glass jar that both makes it giftable and helps preserve the flavor of the leaves. It’s moderately caffeinated and made with Pu-erh, a trending black tea, as well as a Sri Lankan tea and one from Mozambique.
LAB RESULTS: Jammal thought this tea was “really balanced, not too fruity or scented.”
Various teas benefit from being brewed at different temperatures, optimizing the taste. This affordable kettle from Hamilton Beach has six easy-to-program settings for tea and even hot cocoa.
LAB RESULTS: After testing more than 10 kettles, Bleyer said this one stood out for having a user-friendly interface and a comfortable pour. It boiled quickly and accurately.
The freshest matcha is made by grinding the leaves before brewing. This matcha maker from Cuzen automates the process by grinding the matcha for you and then brewing it at the perfect temperature. A whisk on the bottom of the cup froths the drink so you get the same texture you would have if you had whisked it by hand.
LAB RESULTS: The innovative design of this matcha maker had Lab analysts intrigued. They agreed that it made a delicious, high-quality cup.
Expert Advice: Find Your Favorite Tea
- Buy fresh loose-leaf tea when you can. It delivers more flavor than the bagged kind.
- Look for packaging that explains the tea’s origin and includes tasting notes and brewing instructions.
- To take it a step further, research a few tea companies. Favor ones that source directly from tea gardens.
- Check the nutrition label. In fruit-flavored tea, the fruit should be an ingredient.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for brewing, but feel free to play with water temperature, as it brings out different flavors.
– Gabrielle Jammal, Tea Sommelier
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.