Introduction

If you're looking for a no-frills, reliable coffee maker that gets the job done without breaking the bank, then the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable (CM1160B) might be your new go-to appliance. It’s not flashy, nor does it come with smartphone connectivity or fancy filters — but it brews great coffee, lasts longer than many competitors, and costs less than most mid-range models.

This compact 12-cup machine is perfect for small households, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants consistent performance without unnecessary features. In our review, we’ll dive into its core functionality, examine real-world user experiences, and break down whether it’s worth adding to your kitchen lineup — including how it stacks up against more expensive alternatives.

We’ll explore everything from its digital controls and programmable settings to how it handles daily use, durability, and value over time. You’ll also hear directly from users who’ve lived with this machine for months or even years — because sometimes the best insights come from people who’ve actually used something in real life.

Quick Verdict

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5 stars)
Current Price: Around $30–$40 depending on retailer and sales
Best Feature: The sneak-a-cup function that lets you pour your first cup without spills
Bottom Line: If you want a simple, affordable, long-lasting coffee maker that delivers consistent results, this one’s a solid pick.

Key Features

The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B comes packed with features that make it stand out among budget-friendly machines. Here's what makes it tick:

• Sneak-a-Cup Functionality:
  This clever design temporarily stops the flow of coffee so you can pour your first cup without making a mess. No more dripping or splattering when you’re trying to get that perfect morning sip.

• Digital Controls with Rubberized Buttons:
  Unlike older models with tiny, hard-to-read dials, this unit has a clear digital display and tactile buttons that are easy to press even with gloved hands or after a rough morning.

• 2-Hour Auto Shutoff:
  A smart safety feature that turns off the machine automatically after two hours of brewing. Great for preventing accidents and conserving energy — especially handy if you forget to turn it off manually.

• Easy-View Water Window:
  A front-facing window shows exactly how much water you’ve added. No guesswork involved — just fill until the line hits the right spot.

• Durability & Speed:
  Users have reported dropping it multiple times and still having it work flawlessly. It also brews faster than many older models, which is a big win for busy mornings.

• Affordability:
  At around $30–$40, it offers excellent value compared to pricier options, making it ideal for those who don’t want to spend a lot but still want reliability.

These features combine to give you a practical, low-maintenance coffee maker that checks all the boxes for everyday use — without any bells or whistles.

Performance & User Experience

Let’s take a closer look at what real users say about their experience with the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B, drawing from the Reddit community where honest feedback lives.

“It just works. No frills, hot coffee, cheap.” (90 upvotes)
This quote perfectly sums up why so many people love this machine. It doesn’t try to do too much — it simply delivers reliable coffee when you need it.

However, not everything is sunshine and roses. Some users have pointed out a few quirks:

“The carafe lip is designed poorly; it dribbles everywhere when pouring.” (55 upvotes)
That’s a fair criticism. While the carafe itself holds plenty of coffee, the narrow spout leads to some overflow during pouring, which can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry or have a messy counter.

Despite that, there are other standout positives:

“I’ve dropped it three times and it still runs.”
That speaks volumes about its build quality. For someone who’s clumsy or lives with kids or pets, this kind of resilience is a godsend.

Another common praise relates to speed:

“Brews a full pot faster than my old Mr. Coffee.”
If you’re tired of waiting ages for your morning brew, this model will likely save you time — a small but appreciated win.

Users also appreciate how straightforward the setup is:

“Better than Mr. Coffee for longevity.”
Many folks who previously owned basic drip coffee makers found that this one lasted significantly longer, proving that sometimes less really is more.

Still, it's important to note that while it's built to last, it’s not going to compete with premium machines like Bonavita or Hario V60 setups. As one user wisely noted:

“Don’t compare this to a Bonavita; it’s a $30 machine.”

So, don’t expect espresso-level precision — but for casual daily coffee drinking, it performs admirably.

Comparisons

When comparing the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B to similar products, the consensus from Reddit users leans toward its value proposition. While it may lack the advanced features of higher-end models, it holds its own in terms of reliability and lifespan.

As one user put it:

“Better than Mr. Coffee for longevity.”

This comparison highlights a key strength: whereas cheaper drip makers often fail within a year or two, this one tends to hold up better under regular usage.

On the flip side, if you're serious about coffee quality and flavor extraction, you'd probably opt for something like a Bonavita or Chemex, which offer superior control over brewing variables. But again, that’s not what this machine was designed for — and for budget-conscious buyers, it’s a winner.

Ultimately, the CM1160B shines in simplicity and affordability, making it an excellent entry-level choice — especially when you factor in how often users treat it like a disposable appliance every few years due to its low cost.

Who Should Buy This

Perfect for:

1. Students or young professionals living on a tight budget — It’s affordable and doesn’t require maintenance or replacement parts.
2. Small households or couples — Its 12-cup capacity suits smaller groups well without being oversized.
3. People who prefer simple, no-fuss appliances — If you don’t need Wi-Fi connectivity or complex programming, this one ticks all the right boxes.

Skip if:

1. You're a coffee connoisseur — This isn’t the machine for pour-over perfection or specialty brewing techniques.
2. You’re looking for a luxury coffee experience — There’s no fancy aesthetics, high-end materials, or smart app integration here.

Pricing & Value

At around $30–$40, the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B offers incredible value for money. According to Reddit users, it’s priced so low that many treat it as a disposable item, replacing it every three years without hesitation.

“Unbeatable for the price.”
This sentiment reflects how accessible and practical the machine feels for everyday users.

“Cheap enough to treat as disposable every 3 years.”
While not a permanent investment, that flexibility adds to its appeal — particularly for those who don’t want to spend hundreds on a machine they’ll use once a day.

For the best deals, keep an eye out for Amazon Prime Day sales, Black Friday, or back-to-school promotions, where prices often drop even further. Given its durability and simplicity, investing in one now could save you headaches later.

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable (CM1160B) is a solid, dependable, and affordable option for anyone seeking a no-nonsense coffee maker. It may not wow you with bells and whistles, but it does everything you need reliably and efficiently.

With its sneak-a-cup feature, digital controls, auto shut-off timer, and durable construction, it stands out in the crowded world of budget coffee makers.

✔️ Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• Durable build
• Easy-to-use digital interface
• Fast brewing
• Simple operation

❌ Cons:

• Poor carafe design causes dribbling
• Not ideal for coffee enthusiasts seeking fine-tuning

⭐️ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
If you’re in the market for a reliable, low-maintenance coffee maker that won’t break the bank, this one should definitely be on your shortlist.

👉 Check current price on Amazon to see if it's available at a discount today!