BLACK+DECKER CM1160B Best Programmable Coffee Review

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If you’re searching for the ultimate blend of convenience, performance, and affordability in your daily coffee routine, you may have come across the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker. In this comprehensive BLACK+DECKER CM1160B review 2025, I’ll dive deep into every aspect of this popular model—from design and features to cleaning tips, taste quality, and real-world usability. Whether you’re seeking the best programmable coffee maker under $50 or simply want a reliable, user-friendly machine, this review will help you decide if the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B is the right choice for your home or office.

As a coffee enthusiast and professional kitchen gadget reviewer, I’ve tested dozens of drip coffee makers over the years. My focus is always on real-world performance, value, and how these machines fit into busy lifestyles. With its programmable drip coffee machine settings, auto shut-off, Sneak-A-Cup feature, and easy-clean design, the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B promises a lot for such a modest price. But how does it really stack up? Let’s find out.

Who Is the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B For? (Target Audience)

The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-cup programmable coffee maker targets a wide range of coffee drinkers, but is especially ideal for:

Busy families and professionals: The 12-cup capacity means you can brew enough for everyone with a single cycle—perfect for households with multiple coffee lovers or for office break rooms.
Budget-savvy shoppers: If you’re looking for an inexpensive programmable drip coffee maker, the CM1160B offers a host of features typically found in more expensive models.
Coffee drinkers who value convenience: With programmable auto-brew, a digital timer, and auto shut-off, it caters to those who want their coffee ready when they wake up or arrive at work.
Beginner coffee makers: The easy setup and intuitive controls make it accessible for anyone, even those new to making coffee at home.
Dark roast lovers: The even brewing system brings out rich, bold flavors, making it one of the best drip coffee makers for dark roast enthusiasts.

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B (4) — **BLACK+DECKER CM1160B**

Who might not benefit?

Espresso or specialty coffee fans: This machine is strictly for drip coffee, so if you crave espresso, cappuccinos, or cold brew, you’ll need a different device.
Ultra-compact kitchen owners: While reasonably sized, it may be larger than needed for small apartments or solo drinkers.
Customization seekers: This unit lacks advanced brew strength or temperature controls found on premium models.

Product Overview & Summary Box

Here’s a quick look at the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B’s key specs and features:

Feature	Description
Product Name	BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker
Capacity	12 cups
Key Features	Digital timer, Sneak-A-Cup, 2-hour auto shut-off, Water window, Nonstick hot plate, Programmable auto-brew, Easy-clean filter basket, Dishwasher-safe carafe
Dimensions	8.25 x 12.25 x 11 inches
Weight	4.5 lbs
Power	975 Watts
Price	Under $50 (Check latest price on Amazon)
Warranty	2-year limited warranty
Average Customer Rating	★★★★☆ (4.4/5 average from thousands of reviews)

Appearance & Design

The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B sports a sleek, timeless black exterior with stainless steel accents that complement any kitchen decor. Its compact, rectangular footprint fits neatly on most countertops. The front-facing digital display is bright and easy to read, with responsive buttons for programming your brew.

Design highlights:

Ergonomic 12-cup glass carafe: Sturdy and well-balanced, with clear measurement markings and a comfortable handle for spill-free pouring.
Water window: Clearly marked and visible from the side, so you always know how much water you’ve added—no more guessing.
Nonstick hot plate: Keeps your coffee hot for up to 2 hours without scorching or sticking.
Filter basket: Removable and dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleaning.

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B (2) — **BLACK+DECKER CM1160B**

Aesthetics:
While function is king, the CM1160B looks good, too. Its minimalist design and intuitive layout make it suitable for both modern and traditional kitchens.

Performance & Features

Brewing Performance

The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B programmable coffee maker delivers consistent, flavorful coffee thanks to its even saturation system and optimal brew temperature. Although it doesn’t offer adjustable strength or temperature controls, it reliably produces a smooth, well-extracted cup that’s neither too bitter nor too weak.

Key Features

1. Programmable Auto-Brew

Set your brew time up to 24 hours in advance. The digital timer coffee maker with hot plate means you’ll wake up or return home to fresh, hot coffee every day.

2. Sneak-A-Cup Technology

Can’t wait for the pot to finish? The Sneak-A-Cup feature temporarily stops the flow so you can pour a cup mid-brew—no drips, no mess. Is Sneak-A-Cup worth it in coffee makers? Absolutely! It’s a lifesaver on busy mornings.

3. 2-Hour Auto Shut-Off

The energy-efficient coffee maker auto shut-off gives you peace of mind and helps save electricity. If you forget to turn it off, the machine will do it for you after 2 hours.

4. Water Window

The clear, side-mounted water window helps prevent overflows and ensures precise filling every time.

5. Easy-Clean Filter Basket

The filter basket pops out easily for quick cleaning. The machine is compatible with basket-style paper filters or a reusable mesh filter.

6. Dishwasher-Safe Parts

Both the carafe and filter basket are safe for the top rack of your dishwasher, making cleanup a breeze.

7. Keep Warm Hot Plate

After brewing, the nonstick hot plate maintains your coffee’s temperature for up to 2 hours.

8. Descaling Cycle

While not fully automatic, the CM1160B’s easy clean Black+Decker coffee maker design means you can run a descaling cycle with a vinegar-water mix to maintain optimal performance.

Taste Quality

The Black+Decker CM1160B taste quality is above average for its price range. The brewing system extracts balanced flavors, especially with medium or dark roast coffees. If you ever find your coffee bitter, it may be due to using too fine a grind, too much coffee, or not cleaning the machine often enough.

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B (5) — **BLACK+DECKER CM1160B**

User-Friendliness

The CM1160B shines in simplicity and accessibility. The setup guide for CM1160B programmable coffee machine is straightforward: add water, insert your filter and grounds, set the clock, and program your brew time. The digital controls are intuitive and the LCD is clear even in low-light kitchens.

Cleaning:
The removable filter basket and dishwasher-safe carafe make daily maintenance quick and painless. For those wondering how to clean BLACK+DECKER CM1160B filter or run a descaling cycle, just follow these steps:

Remove the filter basket and wash with soapy water or in the dishwasher.
For descaling, run a brew cycle with a mixture of vinegar and water, then repeat with clean water twice.

Durability & Quality

Despite its affordable price, the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B feels sturdy and well-constructed. The plastic housing is robust, and the glass carafe is thick and durable. Many users report years of reliable use with minimal maintenance. If you need to replace water window coffee maker parts CM1160B or the carafe, replacements are widely available online.

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B (3) — **BLACK+DECKER CM1160B**

Value for Money

For under $50, the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B packs in features typically found on much pricier machines. Its reliability, ease of use, and 12-cup capacity make it one of the best budget programmable coffee makers for 2025. Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or outfitting your office, this programmed auto-brew coffee maker under $50 is a fantastic value.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Very affordable—exceptional value for the price
Generous 12-cup capacity
Programmable timer and auto-brew
Sneak-A-Cup feature for mid-brew pouring
Auto shut-off for safety and energy savings
Easy to use and clean; dishwasher-safe parts
Consistent taste quality, especially with dark roasts

Cons

No advanced brew strength or temperature controls
Plastic construction, though durable
No built-in water filter
Brew temperature could be higher for some preferences
Slightly bulky for very small kitchens

Alternatives & Comparisons

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B vs Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker

Feature	BLACK+DECKER CM1160B	Hamilton Beach 12-Cup
Price	Under $50	$40–$60
Programmable	Yes	Yes
Sneak-A-Cup / Brew Pause	Yes	Yes
Water Filter	No	Some models include
Cleaning Cycle	Manual (vinegar/water)	Some models have auto-clean
Size	Compact	Slightly larger
Brew Strength Control	No	Some models include
Hot Plate	Yes	Yes
Replacement Parts	Widely available	Widely available

Which is better?
If you want a built-in water filter or brew strength controls, the Hamilton Beach model may be a better fit. However, for sheer ease of use, reliability, and price, the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B programmable coffee maker is a winner for most users.

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B vs Other Budget Drip Coffee Makers

Compared to other models in its price range, the CM1160B stands out for its combination of capacity, programmability, and user-friendly features. While some competitors offer more customization, few can match its overall value and simplicity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I clean the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B filter and coffee maker?
A: Remove the filter basket and wash it with warm, soapy water or place it in the dishwasher. To descale, run a brew cycle with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water, then repeat with clean water to rinse. This will keep your Black+Decker programmable coffee maker with descaling cycle running smoothly.

Q2: Why is my coffee bitter from CM1160B?
A: Bitterness often results from too fine a grind, excess coffee, or infrequent cleaning. Use a medium grind, the recommended amount of coffee, and clean the machine regularly.

Q3: Is the Sneak-A-Cup feature worth it in coffee makers?
A: Yes! It allows you to pour a cup mid-brew without spills. This is especially useful for busy mornings or when you’re in a rush.

Q4: How do I replace water window coffee maker parts CM1160B?
A: Replacement parts like the carafe and water window are available online through Black+Decker’s website or major retailers like Amazon.

Q5: Is the BLACK+DECKER 12-cup programmable worth it?
A: For those seeking a budget-friendly, reliable, and easy-to-use coffee maker, the CM1160B is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

Final Verdict:
The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker is a standout among budget drip coffee makers. With its generous capacity, user-friendly programmable features, and robust build quality, it’s perfect for families, offices, and anyone seeking reliable daily performance without the hefty price tag. While it lacks some advanced customization options, its overall value and ease of use make it a top pick for 2025.

Ready to simplify your morning coffee routine?
Click here to check the latest price on Amazon and see why the BLACK+DECKER CM1160B is the best budget programmable coffee maker for busy coffee lovers in 2025!

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Buying Options

BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker

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BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker. In this comprehensive BLACK+DECKER CM1160B review 2025

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