Introduction: Convenient Brewing Without the Complexity
The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B is a programmable drip coffee maker designed for simplicity and everyday use. With its 24-hour auto-brew timer and removable parts, this machine aims to make your morning brew effortless and consistent without costly premium features.
What’s in the Box & Design
- BLACK+DECKER CM1160B coffee maker
- 12-cup Duralife™ glass carafe (approx. 60 oz capacity)
- Removable brew basket compatible with reusable or paper filters
- QuickTouch™ digital control panel
- Nonstick keep-hot plate and water-level indicator
This unit features a compact footprint with a black/stainless steel exterior that fits most kitchen counters and is straightforward to use.
Key Features & Specifications
Programmable Auto-Brew (24-Hour Timer)
You can set your brew up to 24 hours in advance so coffee is ready when you wake up or return home.
Sneak-A-Cup Feature
This lets you pause brewing mid-cycle to pour a cup before the full batch finishes — useful when you need coffee right away without waiting for the pot to complete.
2-Hour Auto Shut-Off
For safety and energy savings, the machine automatically turns off about 2 hours after brewing finishes.
Water Window & Easy Cleaning
The clear water reservoir window shows exact fill levels, while the removable filter basket and dishwasher-safe carafe make cleanup easier.
Capacity & Power
- 12-cup capacity ideal for families and offices
- Standard 975 W power for brewing adequately sized batches
Performance & Daily Use
Brew Quality
The CM1160B consistently produces smooth, balanced coffee across multiple cups. It doesn’t include advanced strength settings, but for its price range, it delivers a reliable extraction that isn’t overly bitter or weak.
Ease of Operation
Users find the digital QuickTouch controls intuitive, with large buttons and a clear display that simplify setting the clock, choosing auto-brew time, and starting the brew.
Warmth & Hold
The nonstick keep-hot plate maintains coffee warmth for up to about 2 hours, though prolonged heating can slightly affect flavor over time.
Pros & Cons
Pros
✔ Large 12-cup capacity — suitable for families and gatherings.
✔ Programmable auto-brew timer — coffee ready when you need it.
✔ Sneak-A-Cup feature — pour a cup mid-brew without drips.
✔ Easy-clean design with removable filter and dishwasher-safe carafe.
✔ Affordable and user-friendly — no fancy extras required for good daily coffee.
Cons
✘ No built-in grinder, so you must use pre-ground coffee.
✘ Limited brew strength customization — just standard drip brew.
✘ Warm plate only holds heat for a couple of hours, so coffee may cool if left longer.
✘ Some users report noise or slower brewing with certain batches — results vary by model.
Who Should Buy This Coffee Maker?
This coffee maker is ideal for:
- Busy households that want fresh coffee ready each morning without fuss or complexity.
- Small offices or shared spaces where multiple cups get brewed daily.
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a programmable coffee maker without high price tags.
It’s less ideal if you want specialty brews, integrated grinders, or extensive customization in strength and temperature.
Final Verdict
The BLACK+DECKER CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker delivers reliable, everyday coffee brewing with useful features like 24-hour programming and Sneak-A-Cup at an affordable price. While it’s not a premium appliance with advanced customization, it hits the essentials very well — making it a strong choice for daily drip coffee lovers who prioritize convenience and simplicity.