Mr. Coffee DRX5

The Mr. Coffee DRX5 4-cup programmable coffee maker is a compact, small-capacity coffee maker for situations where a larger one would be overkill -- such as in a family with just one coffee drinker. Though it is small in capacity, it's not small when it comes to features, including 24-hour programming, a removable filter basket for easy cleaning and a pause-brew function.

Performance

Slow brew times and small capacity don't deter owners. The Mr. Coffee claims to brew four cups of coffee in a brew cycle, but owners complain that what is a measurable four cups actually amounts to just one or two when it comes to filling average-sized coffee mugs. However, for most owners, that suits their purposes well. Users say this model is ideal for small apartments, dorms or offices, indeed for any situation where you are brewing coffee for one person rather than a crowd. Most users give the DRX5 a thumbs-up when it comes to producing good-tasting coffee.

Ease of use

Packed with features and easy to clean. The Mr. Coffee DRX5 is easy to clean, according to owners posting reviews to Amazon.com, Target.com, BestBuy.com and Viewpoints.com. It has a removable filter basket which can be easily rinsed out between uses and is also top-rack dishwasher safe. Opinions are mixed on the carafe; most owners say it has a comfortable handle and is easy to pour without spilling thanks to its well-designed spout, but others complain they experience drips when pouring from it.

The programming features are intuitive to use, with a timer that can be set up to 24 hours in advance and a pause-brew function that operates with a simple push of a button. It's set to automatically shut off after two hours, although some owners wish it were possible to set for a longer time interval.

Appearance

Compact size is easy to store and transport. The compact size of this coffee maker means it's easy to store when not in use, and it fits easily under kitchen cabinets. It also has built-in cord storage, so you can leave it sitting out without a dangling cord cluttering up your countertop. Owners like the simple, black appearance of this compact coffee maker, noting that it blends in with most décor in any setting.

There are some isolated complaints about durability. A few owners posting to Amazon.com report having owned more than one of these units and have experienced malfunctions with the clock and on/off switch. Others, however, say the Mr. Coffee is extremely durable and will last for years.

The bottom line

The ideal coffee maker for singles or small spaces. The Mr. Coffee DRX5 is a simple coffee maker in a compact package, yet it still offers many features common to more expensive machines. If you drink a lot of coffee each day, you should consider the larger Mr. Coffee VBX23 (*Est. $35), which has the same features but a 12-cup capacity.