When you need a cup of coffee, you need a cup of coffee. We get it. (Note: please don’t talk to us before we’ve had our first cup of the day.) In preparation for National Coffee Day on September 29th, our editors have rounded up their favorite picks to give them their much-needed daily caffeine fix. From coffee grinders to espresso machines to smart mugs, we’ve get the essentials you need to take your coffee routine to the next level.
Best Travel Mug
The sleek Carter Everywhere Mug from Fellow Products is designed to amplify the senses and engineered to fit the most popular manual brewing devices. Insulated stainless steel retains heat for 12 hours and stays cold for 24 hours, while a leak-proof seal keeps your bag dry and your coffee right where it should be.
Best Dark Roast
Billed as the “world’s strongest coffee”, Death Wish is not for the faint of heart. Their carefully selected premium Arabica and Robusta whole coffee beans offer about twice the caffeine of a regular cop of coffee. Plus they are Fair Trade and USDA Certified Organic, so this is one caffeine kick you can feel good about.
Best Light Roast
Well-balanced acidity and sweet fruit overtones make Joshua Tree Coffee’s Mellow Ethiopian perfect for those who enjoy a lighter roast. Featuring peaberry coffee beans from carefully chosen Ethiopian growers this premium organic coffee is full-bodied and perfect for pour-over, pulling espresso shots, or anything in between.
Most Stylish Coffee Maker
The Haden Dorchester Coffee Maker takes inspiration from the British countryside with this striking Stone Blue colorway. This 10-cup coffee maker’s faux bois detailing, clean curves and stainless steel accents will instantly elevate your kitchen counter while keeping your coffee warm for up to 120 minutes.
Coffee Brand That Gives Back
Dog lovers will be able to easily get behind Grounds & Hounds Coffee – 20% of all profits are used to fund innovative and impactful dog rescue programs throughout the country. Their Single Origin Explorer’s Kit includes 100% Fair Trade Organic, 100% Arabica, whole bean coffee from Papua New Guinea, Mexico, and Colombia.
Best Smart Coffee Maker
The stylish SCA Certified Café™ Specialty Drip Coffee Maker offers built-in WiFi and works with the SmartHQ app, Alexa and Google. This 10-cup coffee maker also features Voice-to-Brew controls, offers four brewing modes (Gold, Light, Medium and Bold), and allows you to brew exactly to your favorite temperature every morning.
Best Smart Mug
The Ember Mug² does more than just keep your coffee hot. It allows you to set an exact drinking temperature between 120°F – 145°F and then maintain it for up to 90 minutes. Use the Ember app to set your temperature, customize presets for your favorite drinks, receive notifications when your desired temperature is reached.
Best Stoneware Mug
Twenty bucks for a Le Creuset is a steal if you ask us. This 14-ounce stoneware mug comes in over 15 colors, is dishwasher and microwave safe, and comes with a 10-year warranty. What else could you ask for?
Best Espresso Maker For Serious Coffee Lovers
The De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine was created for the passionate espresso and coffee drinker. With features including Active Temperature Control with Dual Heating System, Sensor Grinding Technology, Smart Tamping and an Advanced Latte System, you won’t be able to tell if you’re in your kitchen or in a café in Rome. (Ok, you will, but you know what we mean.)
Best Simple Espresso Maker
Nespresso’s stunning simplicity comes through in their VertuoPlus Deluxe. Their one-touch brewing system allows you to create barista grade brewed single serve Coffee or Espresso cups at the touch of a button. Choose from 5oz and 8 oz coffees, or single and double espresso. Be sure to take advantage of Nespresso’s free recycling program.
Best Pour Over Coffee Maker
If you’re looking for a pour-over that could be confused with a piece of modern art, the Stelton Theo Pour-Over Coffee Maker may be what you’re looking for. This sleek Danish coffee maker is made from matte stoneware and brews two cups of your favorite roast – the perfect way to start your day.
Best Coffee Grinder
Named one of the best new products of 2021 by the Specialty Coffee Association, the Ode Brew Grinder by Fellow is a powerful and precise home coffee grinder with 31 grind settings. It’s perfect for AeroPress®, pour-over, French press, cold brew, and more, but is not an espresso grinder.