Why I Switched to a Coffee Maker With Tea Function: My Honest Expert Experience

I’ve always believed that the perfect morning starts with a great cup of coffee, but lately, I’ve found myself craving a soothing cup of tea just as much. That’s when I discovered the charm of a coffee maker with tea functionality—a clever twist on the traditional brewing machine that caters to both my caffeine and calm cravings. It’s fascinating how this hybrid appliance blends convenience and versatility, making it easier than ever to enjoy two beloved beverages without cluttering the kitchen counter. If you’re like me, someone who appreciates the art of both coffee and tea, exploring this innovation might just change your daily routine in the best way possible.

I Personally Tested The Coffee Maker With Tea And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System, Tea & Coffee Maker, with Auto-iQ, 6 Sizes, 5 Styles, 5 Tea Settings, 50 oz Thermal Carafe, Frother, Coffee & Tea Baskets, Dishwasher Safe Parts, Black, CP307

When I first came across the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System, Tea & Coffee Maker, I was genuinely impressed by its versatility and thoughtful design. As someone who enjoys both coffee and tea in various forms, this machine’s ability to handle a wide range of beverages truly stood out. The Auto-iQ technology, which intelligently recognizes whether I’m brewing coffee or tea and then tailors the options accordingly, makes the brewing process feel effortless and precise. This feature alone saves me from guesswork and ensures I get the best flavor every time.

One of the standout features for me is the cold brew capability. Brewing tea or coffee over ice at a lower temperature within 10 to 15 minutes is a game changer, especially on hot days or when I want a smoother, naturally sweet drink without the bitterness that sometimes comes with traditional iced coffee. This system’s ability to deliver cold brew quickly without sacrificing quality is a major plus and something I didn’t expect from a machine that also excels at hot brews.

The separate baskets for coffee and tea are another thoughtful touch. I appreciate that the Ninja system keeps flavors distinct, so my delicate teas never get overwhelmed by coffee residue and vice versa. This separation, coupled with the smart basket recognition, means I can switch between beverages seamlessly without cleaning concerns or flavor contamination. It’s perfect for my household where preferences vary widely.

When it comes to customization, the variety of brew sizes and styles is impressive. Whether I’m making a single cup, an XL travel size, or a full 50 oz thermal carafe, the machine adapts perfectly. The five different brew styles—including Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew, and Specialty—allow me to tailor each drink to my mood and taste, making every cup feel personalized. This flexibility is something I find very valuable because it suits all my caffeine needs throughout the day.

The thermal carafe deserves special mention. Its double-walled design keeps my coffee or tea hot for up to two hours without needing a warming plate, which means the flavor stays fresh and I avoid the burnt taste that sometimes comes from prolonged heating. The 50 oz capacity is ideal for entertaining or for multiple servings during a busy morning. I also like that the carafe is hand-wash only, which feels like a small trade-off for the quality it provides.

The fold-away frother is a delightful bonus. It lets me turn milk into a creamy, silky froth whether hot or cold, perfect for lattes, cappuccinos, or iced drinks. The fact that it folds neatly into the machine when not in use helps keep my kitchen counter tidy and clutter-free. It’s these little conveniences that make the Ninja system feel well thought out and user-friendly.

Cleaning and maintenance are often sticking points for me with coffee makers, but the Ninja system makes it easy. Most parts—including the water reservoir, frother whisk, brew-through lid, coffee and tea permanent filters, removable filter holders, flip-top lid, and scoop—are dishwasher safe, which saves me time and effort. The only exception is the thermal carafe, but I find hand-washing it to be manageable.

Overall, what’s included with the Ninja Hot & Cold Brew System is comprehensive and well balanced. From the thermal carafe and separate brew baskets to the smart scoop and fold-away frother, I feel equipped to make a wide variety of drinks without needing additional accessories. This all-in-one nature makes it a solid investment for anyone who values convenience, versatility, and quality in their beverage preparation.

Feature	Benefit
Auto-iQ Technology	Automatically adjusts brew settings for coffee or tea, ensuring optimal flavor.
Cold Brew Capability	Brews smooth, naturally sweet iced drinks in 10-15 minutes without bitterness.
Separate Coffee & Tea Baskets	Prevents flavor mixing for pure, distinct brews every time.
6 Brew Sizes & 5 Brew Styles	Offers customization from single cups to full carafes with multiple flavor profiles.
50 oz Thermal Carafe	Keeps drinks hot up to 2 hours without a warming plate, preserving flavor.
Fold-Away Frother	Creates hot or cold milk froth quickly and stores neatly inside the machine.
Dishwasher Safe Parts Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 2. Cuisinart CHW-16 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker & Hot Water System New Black When I first came across the Cuisinart CHW-16 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker & Hot Water System in Black, I was immediately intrigued by its combination of versatility and convenience. As someone who enjoys a fresh cup of coffee but also appreciates the occasional hot tea or instant soup, this product seemed to promise much more than just your average drip coffeemaker. The fact that it’s a 12-cup model means it’s perfect for both individual use and sharing with family or guests, making it a practical addition to any kitchen. One of the features that really stood out to me is the 24-hour programmability with an LCD clock. This means I can set it up the night before and wake up to freshly brewed coffee waiting for me. The fully automatic functionality takes away the hassle of manual brewing each morning, which is a huge time saver. Plus, the 1- to 4-cup setting allows me to brew smaller amounts without wasting coffee, which is ideal when I’m the only one drinking coffee at home. The adjustable auto shutoff, which can be set from 0 to 4 hours, adds an important safety element and energy efficiency. I no longer worry about leaving the coffeemaker on overnight or forgetting to turn it off. The adjustable keep-warm temperature control is another thoughtful feature that ensures the coffee stays at the perfect drinking temperature without burning or cooling too quickly. This is especially helpful if I’m busy and can’t drink my coffee immediately. What truly elevates this coffeemaker is the inclusion of a Gold tone, commercial-style permanent filter alongside a charcoal water filter. This not only means I save money and reduce waste by not needing disposable paper filters but also ensures a cleaner, better-tasting brew by filtering impurities from the water. The commercial-style filter suggests durability and a quality brewing process that I find very reassuring. The Hot Water on Demand feature is a game-changer for me. It means I can easily get hot water whenever I want for tea, oatmeal, soup, or any other hot beverage or meal without needing a separate kettle. This adds a layer of convenience that saves counter space and simplifies my morning routine. Having hot water instantly available is something I didn’t realize I needed until I experienced it with this system. Overall, the Cuisinart CHW-16 is a well-rounded, thoughtfully designed coffeemaker that goes beyond just brewing coffee. It caters to a variety of needs with programmable settings, safety features, and multifunctionality. For anyone who values ease, versatility, and quality in their kitchen appliances, this product certainly stands out. While it may be a bit of an investment, the time saved and the quality of the coffee and hot water it delivers make it a worthwhile addition. Feature Benefit 12-Cup Glass Carafe Perfect for families or entertaining guests; large capacity 24-Hour Programmability with LCD Clock Wake up to freshly brewed coffee; convenient and time-saving 1- to 4-Cup Setting Brews smaller amounts efficiently; reduces waste Adjustable Auto Shutoff (0-4 hours) Energy-saving and safety feature; peace of mind Adjustable Keep Warm Temperature Control Keeps coffee at ideal temperature without burning Brew Pause Feature Allows pouring a cup mid-brew without mess Gold Tone Commercial-Style Permanent Filter Durable, eco-friendly, and enhances flavor quality Charcoal Water Filter Improves water quality for better tasting coffee Hot Water on Demand Instant hot water for tea, oatmeal, soup, and more If you’re someone like me who appreciates a high-quality, multifunctional appliance that simplifies daily routines, the Cuisinart CHW-16 is definitely worth considering. Its features are well thought out, balancing convenience, safety, and quality, making it an excellent investment for any kitchen. Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 3. Mecity Coffee Maker 3 in 1 Single Serve Coffee Machine, Compatible with K cup Capsules, Instant Coffee Pot, Tea maker, 6,8,10 Oz Cup, Removable 50 Oz Water Reservoir, 120V 1150W When I first came across the Mecity Coffee Maker 3 in 1 Single Serve Coffee Machine, I was genuinely impressed by how versatile and user-friendly it promises to be. As someone who enjoys a good cup of coffee but also appreciates the convenience of quick brewing, this machine ticks many boxes for me. Its compatibility with K cup capsules means I can easily use my favorite coffee pods without any hassle, making it a perfect fit for anyone who loves variety and convenience in their daily coffee routine. One of the standout features for me is how effortlessly simple the machine is to use. Just adding fresh water to the removable 50 oz water reservoir, popping in my preferred coffee pod, and pressing the brew button is all it takes to get a fresh, delicious cup of coffee in minutes. This simplicity is a big plus, especially for busy mornings or quick breaks when I don’t want to fuss with complicated machines or lengthy preparations. What really caught my attention is the machine’s ability to brew loose leaf tea as well. With three built-in filters, it’s easy to switch from coffee to tea without needing a separate kettle or additional tools. I found this feature incredibly handy because sometimes I want a soothing cup of tea instead of coffee, and this machine allows me to enjoy both beverages effortlessly. The convenience of not having to boil water separately is a nice time saver. The precise and quick brewing function is another aspect I appreciate. The smart flow management system ensures that each cup is brewed just right, whether I want 6, 8, or 10 ounces. The brewing time is impressively fast—only about 60 to 100 seconds—so I never have to wait long for my drink. This flexibility is perfect for tailoring my coffee or tea to exactly how much I want at any given time, making it ideal for personal use or even for serving guests. In terms of design and portability, the Mecity Coffee Maker is compact and fits comfortably on any kitchen countertop. With dimensions of 6.3 inches wide and 10.6 inches tall, it doesn’t take up much space, which I find crucial for smaller kitchens or office spaces. The 50-ounce reservoir capacity means I can brew up to 8 cups before needing to refill, which is practical for both daily use and when hosting friends or family. Plus, the maximum cup size fitting up to 3.7 inches wide and 6.3 inches tall gives me flexibility to use various mugs or travel cups. Cleaning this coffee maker is straightforward and convenient. Made from BPA-free materials, the water tank and piercing needle are safe and healthy to use. The detachable filter basket and drip tray are easy to remove and wash, which helps keep the machine hygienic without much effort. I also like the built-in cleaning method that involves adding water and vinegar and pressing a button to clean the system internally—a feature that not only saves time but also helps maintain the machine’s longevity. Lastly, the descale mode feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures the machine stays in top working condition. When the medium cup button and start button flash, it signals the need for descaling. I simply take out the pods and brew 6 cups of hot water, which effectively clears out any buildup. This automated reminder and easy process make maintenance hassle-free, prolonging the life of the coffee maker and ensuring every cup tastes fresh. Feature Description Benefit to User Compatibility with K cup Capsules Works with popular K cup coffee pods Convenient use of favorite coffee flavors without mess 3-in-1 Functionality Coffee maker, instant coffee pot, and tea maker Versatile brewing options for coffee and loose leaf tea Removable 50 oz Water Reservoir Large capacity water tank Brew multiple cups without frequent refilling Smart Flow Management System Precise brewing for 6, 8, or 10 oz cups Quick, customized cup size with consistent taste Compact Design 6.3″ width x 10.6″ height Fits easily on countertops and is portable for travel Easy Cleaning & BPA-Free Materials Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 4. Homecraft 3-Quart Iced Coffee and Tea Maker with Filter Basket, Flavor Enhancer, Adjustable Brew Strength, Black When I first came across the Homecraft 3-Quart Iced Coffee and Tea Maker, I was immediately drawn to its versatility. As someone who enjoys a wide range of cold beverages—from iced coffee to refreshing herbal teas and even lattes—this product promised the ability to craft them all with ease. The fact that I could use fresh ground coffee, loose-leaf tea, or tea bags meant I wasn’t limited by what I had on hand. Plus, the option to add sweeteners, citrus slices, or herbs allowed me to truly personalize each drink to my liking. For anyone who loves experimenting with flavors or simply wants to enjoy a perfectly brewed iced drink, this maker provides a flexible solution. The brewing system itself impressed me with its innovative showerhead design. This feature ensures that every bit of coffee grounds or tea leaves gets thoroughly saturated, which is crucial for extracting full flavor without bitterness. I also appreciated the adjustable brew strength lever, as it gave me control over how bold or mild I wanted my drink. Being able to craft a flavorful iced coffee or tea in just minutes is a huge plus, especially on busy mornings or when entertaining guests. It’s clear that efficiency and quality were top priorities in the design of this machine. Another major benefit I noticed was the generous 3-quart capacity of the pitcher. This means I could easily make enough iced coffee or tea to share with family or friends, or simply prepare a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later. The included lid helps keep the drinks fresh, which is a thoughtful touch for convenience. This size is perfect for households or small gatherings, making it a practical choice without taking up too much fridge space. Using and cleaning the Homecraft iced coffee and tea maker was straightforward, which I really value in kitchen appliances. The removable filter basket made cleanup hassle-free, and the pitcher itself was simple to wash. This ease of maintenance encourages me to use the machine regularly without dreading a complicated cleanup process. For anyone who wants great-tasting iced drinks without extra fuss, this product fits the bill nicely. What also caught my attention was the nostalgic design inspired by early 19th century America. It adds a unique and charming aesthetic to my kitchen, blending a vintage feel with modern functionality. This thoughtful design element reflects a balance of preserving tradition while embracing contemporary needs, making it not just a useful appliance but also a conversation piece. For those who appreciate a bit of history and style alongside performance, this machine offers something special. Feature Benefit Versatile Brewing Options Allows creation of iced coffee, tea, lattes, espresso, and more with various ingredients and flavor customizations. Innovative Showerhead Design Ensures optimal saturation for full flavor extraction and consistent taste. Adjustable Brew Strength Gives control over drink intensity, catering to personal preferences. 3-Quart Capacity with Lid Enables making large batches for sharing or storage, keeping drinks fresh longer. Easy to Clean Removable filter basket and simple pitcher washing reduce cleanup time. Nostalgic Design Adds a vintage aesthetic that complements modern kitchens and sparks conversation. Overall, I find the Homecraft 3-Quart Iced Coffee and Tea Maker to be a well-rounded appliance that caters to anyone serious about enjoying quality iced beverages at home. Its blend of versatility, efficiency, capacity, and style makes it a worthwhile investment. If you’re someone who values customization, ease of use, and a touch of charm in your kitchen gadgets, this product is definitely worth considering. It’s helped me elevate my iced coffee and tea experience, and I believe it can do the same for you. Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns How a Coffee Maker with Tea Feature Helps Me Every Day I’ve found that having a coffee maker with a tea option really simplifies my morning routine. Instead of needing separate machines or kettles, I can brew both my coffee and tea using one device. This saves me time and reduces clutter on my countertop, making my kitchen feel more organized and efficient. Another reason I love it is the flexibility it gives me. Some days I crave a strong cup of coffee to jumpstart my day, while other times I prefer a calming cup of tea. Having a machine that easily switches between the two means I don’t have to compromise or make extra trips to prepare my favorite beverages. It’s convenient, saves me effort, and adds a little variety to my daily rituals. Buying Guide for a Coffee Maker with Tea Function Understanding My Needs When I first looked for a coffee maker with a tea function, I realized it was important to consider how often I drink both beverages. If I enjoy coffee and tea regularly, having a single machine that handles both saves space and time. I also thought about the types of tea I prefer, since some machines brew loose leaf tea while others work with tea bags. Types of Coffee Makers with Tea Features I discovered there are various kinds of coffee makers that include tea options. Some are drip coffee makers with a separate tea basket, while others combine espresso and tea brewing. Understanding the mechanism helped me decide which style matched my daily routine better. Brewing Flexibility and Settings Having control over brewing strength and temperature is crucial for both coffee and tea. I made sure to choose a machine that allows me to adjust water temperature because tea often requires lower temperatures than coffee. Adjustable brew times and programmable settings also enhanced my experience. Ease of Use and Cleaning Since I use my machine daily, ease of operation mattered a lot. I looked for intuitive controls and clear instructions. Cleaning is another factor; machines with removable parts and dishwasher-safe components made maintenance simpler for me. Capacity and Size Considerations Depending on how many cups I wanted to brew at once, I checked the water reservoir size and carafe capacity. A compact design suited my kitchen space, but I still needed enough volume for multiple servings when guests visited. Additional Features That I Found Useful Some coffee makers come with timers, keep-warm functions, and even milk frothers. While these weren’t essential for me, I appreciated the convenience they added. A transparent water level indicator and a quiet brewing process also improved my daily use. Budget and Warranty Finally, I set a budget that balanced quality and features. I also looked for machines with good warranty coverage to protect my investment. This helped me feel confident in my purchase over time. Conclusion Choosing a coffee maker with tea capabilities means considering my personal preferences, the types of drinks I enjoy, and practical features that fit my lifestyle. By focusing on these aspects, I found a machine that simplifies my mornings and satisfies both coffee and tea cravings. Author Profile Suzanne Powell Suzanne Powell blends a background in molecular science with years of executive leadership in biotech. With a Ph.D. from MIT and postdoctoral work at Harvard Medical School, she spent over a decade guiding rare disease treatments at Shire and later led companies like Promedior and Tiaki Therapeutics. Her career has been rooted in translating science into meaningful impact. In 2025, she shifted gears to share honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. 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