Life is exhausting, and most mornings a huge cup of coffee is the only thing that gets us to a semi-functioning state. But long lines at the coffee shop and paying $5 for a latte make something that's supposed to be enjoyable feel like another errand to run. That's why we wholeheartedly endorse investing in a coffee maker and getting your caffeine fix at home.

Buying this Hamilton Beach two-way coffee maker is a good way to start taking control of your mornings, mainly because it's made with your hectic schedule in mind. Its two main functions allow you to either brew one cup (with a slot specifically for filling up a single travel mug), or a whole pot for everyone in your house (the glass carafe has a 12-cup capacity). Another helpful feature — it's programmable for up to 24 hours in advance, so you can wake up to piping-hot coffee rather than having to groggily wait for it to brew. The best part? It's on sale on Amazon right now for 45 percent off, which means you can snatch up this thing for under $50 and start making your mornings run more smoothly immediately.

How do you make your morning cup of coffee? Let us know in the comments!