Consumer Web Extra: Consumer Reports coffee maker ratings

Paying $3 for a cup of coffee several times a day, or even just several times a week, really adds up over time, especially if you're a college student. So, how about investing in a good coffee maker?

Consumer Reports' latest ratings on coffee makers and coffee beans can help students and others really save money in the long run.

"College kids now actually care about having a good cup of coffee. So, one of the tests we do is measure how well a coffee maker keeps water between 195 and 205 (degrees). Ideally it does it for five to six minutes," explains Paul Hope, Consumer Reports Home Editor.

A single serve pod maker keeps it simple and easy. Consumer Reports recommends the Delonghi Nescafe Dolce Gusto Genio, model #EDG455T for $130.

"Pods are really convenient, but the flavor doesn't compare to other coffee makers. Plus, they get expensive and they're less environmentally friendly," Hope says.

A drip coffee maker can keep costs down. The Hamilton Beach 12-cup Programmable coffee maker, model #49465, is a Consumer Reports Best Buy for just $25.

Got a budding barista? The $100 iCoffee Coffee Maker, model #RCB100-BC12, is an electric version of a French press. It's very easy to use and clean.

If you've got a coffee connoisseur on your hands, the Chemex Pour-Over Brewer is an option. Its filters are made of heavy paper designed to regulate water flow and keep coffee grounds and other undesirable flavors out.

"Our expert coffee tasters gave coffee brewed in the Chemex high marks for complexity, acidity and overall quality," said Hope.

Consumer Reports also tested Ethiopian coffee beans.

For pod machines, Green Mountain's Organic Ethiopian Coffee earned high scores.

For drip and other coffeemaker machines, Trader Joe's Organic Fair Trade Ethiopian coffee is a Best Buy.

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