Coffeemakers

The West Bend 56320 is part of the coffeemaker test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, drip coffeemaker models like the 56320 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.

Brew performance:

The ability to reach 195° to 205° F for five or six minutes, the industry standard for optimal brewing.

Convenience:

Reflects ease of filling the reservoir, placing the filter, gauging the amount of coffee remaining, and cleaning up. It also reflects how clear we judged the controls.

Carafe handling:

Covers handle comfort, tendency to drip while pouring, balance of a full carafe, and how easy it was to empty the last liquid. Models with no score here brew into single-serve cups or are brew-and-dispense models. The latter hold the coffee in a tank; you fill your cup by pressing it against the dispenser lever.