Best On Demand Coffee Maker: A Comparison Guide

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The Technivorm Moccamaster KBT is like the Rolls Royce of coffee machines. It’s durable, brews an amazing cup of Joe, and though it might be a tad pricey, it’s absolutely worth every penny. For anyone passionate about coffee, this is an investment that you won’t regret. Here’s to countless more mornings of coffee bliss!

And here is what America's Test Kitchen has to say about this coffee maker:

"Our overall favorite is the Technivorm Moccamaster KBT. Its powerful copper boiler quickly heats and holds water at a precise temperature for coffee that tasters described as very strong but smooth. Besides its single on-off control and clean design, we also really loved its five-year warranty and its easily replaceable exterior parts, which ensure a long, useful life. It costs just over $300, but it's gonna hold up and serve you well."

So whether you want the best option for your morning coffee or trying to make Japanese iced filter coffee you will want one of these models.

A hot cup of coffee on a table

Technivorm Moccamaster KBT In-Depth Review

Coffee enthusiasts, you're in for a treat! Today, we'll be diving into an in-depth review of the Technivorm Moccamaster KBT coffee machine. From build quality to maintenance, I've got you covered.

When it comes to brewing coffee at home, Technivorm Moccamaster KBT stands as a paragon of excellence. With a lineage tracing back to 1968, Moccamaster coffee brewers have continually raised the bar for home coffee brewing. In this review, we will grind down to the details of what makes the Moccamaster KBT an unparalleled coffee maker.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Moccamaster isn’t just another coffee machine; it’s a piece of history. Since 1968, these coffee brewers have set the global benchmark. What sets them apart?

  • Handmade in the heart of the Netherlands.
  • A commitment to extracting maximum flavor from your coffee grounds.
  • Brewing time that competes with the best, clocking in at about 4-6 minutes.
  • A cup of coffee that is comparable to a meticulously brewed pour-over or a high-quality café brew.

Did you know? All Moccamaster coffee brewers are handmade in the Netherlands!

Build Quality: Sturdy and Thoughtful

The Moccamaster KBT boasts a durable metal housing, ensuring that this machine is built to last. But what’s really impressive is the copper boiling element used to heat the water.

  • Copper Boiling Element: This is not just for show; it's about performance. The copper boiling element ensures consistent water temperature control. This is crucial for extracting that perfect brew.
  • Conscious Material Choices: All plastics used in the Moccamaster are BPA, BPS, BPF, and phthalate-free. It’s not just about making great coffee; it’s about doing it responsibly.

Coffee On The Go: A Traveler’s Delight

One of the standout features of the Moccamaster KBT is its double-walled stainless steel carafe. But Technivorm didn’t stop there; they added two lids.

  1. Brew-Thru Lid: Keep this lid on while you brew and pour. It minimizes heat loss and keeps your coffee hot for longer.
  2. Travel Lid: Switch to the travel lid, and you’re ready to hit the road with your hot coffee in tow.

This feature epitomizes the thoughtful design that Moccamaster embodies.

"Adventure is worthwhile in itself." – Amelia Earhart. Take your adventures to the next level with Moccamaster KBT’s travel-ready features.

Quality Assurance: The Moccamaster Promise

Every Moccamaster brewer is tested individually before it leaves the factory. This isn't just quality control; this is a testament to Technivorm's commitment to excellence. When you buy a Moccamaster KBT, you aren't just getting a coffee machine; you're becoming a part of a tradition that values quality, performance, and the pure joy of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.

The Verdict

If you’re looking for a coffee brewer that combines history, performance, thoughtful design, and build quality, the Technivorm Moccamaster KBT is unrivaled. Yes, there are cheaper options. But with Moccamaster, you’re investing in a legacy of excellence. You’re not just making coffee; you’re brewing experiences.

Raise your cups to the Moccamaster KBT, a beacon of brewing brilliance.

Here’s to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling your mornings, and the taste of excellence guiding your days.

“The Moccamaster doesn’t just make coffee; it crafts mornings, fuels adventures, and celebrates the art of coffee making.”

A hot cup of coffee on a black background

Is Moccamaster KBT For Everyone?

While Moccamaster KBT is a fantastic machine, it's important to consider who this is for.

  • Coffee Aficionados: If you are someone who cannot compromise on your coffee quality, this is the machine for you.
  • People on the Go: The dual-lid carafe system makes it an excellent companion for those who need their coffee on the move.
  • Long-term Investors: If you're looking for a coffee machine that you won’t need to replace in a couple of years, this durable piece of art is a great investment.

What Could Be Better?

No product is without its cons, and as an informed consumer, it’s important to look at both sides:

  • Price Point: It’s pricier than your average coffee machine. However, for many, the quality and features justify the investment.
  • Learning Curve: It may take a few tries to get your perfect brew, particularly if you’re used to more basic coffee machines.

Helpful Tips for Moccamaster KBT Users

  1. Use Quality Coffee Beans: To get the most out of this machine, pair it with high-quality coffee beans.
  2. Regular Cleaning: Keep your machine in top shape by cleaning and descaling regularly.
  3. Experiment: Take some time to experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios and grind sizes to find your perfect brew.

The Lower Cost Option - OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker

The KBT Mocccamaster is the Rolls Royce of coffee-makers. The OXO is the BMW. It's still more expensive than your average coffee maker and doesn't have as many luxury elements like a copper boiler.

But as America's Test Kitchen says:

"... intuitive controls and the most ergonomically pleasing carafe we've seen in years of testing."

A Deep Dive into Features

1. Compact Yet Powerful

Though compact in design, this machine packs a punch. It’s ideal for kitchens with limited counter space but uncompromising in quality and performance.

2. Thermal Carafe

The Oxo 8-Cup Drip Brewer comes with a thermal carafe that ensures your coffee remains hot for an extended period. Say goodbye to the traditional warming plates; the thermal carafe does this without compromising the coffee’s taste.

3. Customizable Brewing Capacity

The brewing options on this machine are versatile. Whether you're making a single cup or brewing for a small gathering, this coffee maker has you covered. It offers the ability to brew between two or four cups using Kalita 185 filters with an adapter or six to eight cups with standard filters.

4. Removable Shower Screen

Cleaning coffee machines can be quite the task. With the removable shower screen, Oxo ensures an easy cleaning process and an even water distribution for a well-rounded extraction.

5. Brew Basket and Filter Options

The brew basket is not only easy to remove but can also accommodate different filter types. Whether you prefer cone-shaped or flat-bottom filters, this machine can handle both.

6. Intuitive Controls

The buttons on the front are self-explanatory and easy to use. The options available are: two to four cups, six to eight cups, and a clean cycle.

7. Multi-Utility Carafe Base

The base of the thermal carafe is thoughtfully designed and can be flipped over to be used as a cup stand for single mug brewing.

8. Brewing Time and Temperature

This coffee maker takes about three to four minutes to brew with Kalita 185 filters, staying within the SCA-approved temperature range, ensuring that the coffee is never under or over-extracted.

Brewing Experience

Using the Oxo 8-Cup Drip Brewer is a delight. With its straightforward brewing process, simple button controls, and clear water markings on the side, even a novice can make a perfect cup of coffee.

Don't forget to compost your grounds otherwise you will be reading how to unclog your drain.

Coffee Quality

The coffee brewed using this machine is well-extracted and balanced. The ability to use different filters and the excellent water distribution allows for a versatile coffee experience. Whether you like a bold or mild flavor profile, the Oxo 8-cup brewer can cater to your preference.

The Value Model - Zojirushi Zutto Coffee Maker

".. brewed a small pot of very good coffee and we loved its removable water tank and easy cleanup." -America's Test Kitchen

Key Features

1. Removable Water Tank

One of the standout features of the ZUTTO Coffee Maker is its removable water tank. This means that you don't have to move the entire coffee maker every time you want to fill it with water. Simply remove the tank, fill it up, and place it back.

2. Charcoal Water Filter

The ZUTTO comes equipped with a charcoal water filter that purifies water, ensuring a clean operation. This feature is indispensable for coffee purists as the taste of water greatly affects the end result. The filter lasts up to 2 years under normal use, which means you don’t have to worry about changing it frequently.

“Purifies water for better-tasting coffee and lasts up to 2 years under normal use.” - ZUTTO Coffee Maker

3. Compact Design

The coffee maker features a very compact design, making it perfect for small kitchen spaces or offices. The cone basket is ingeniously designed to be housed within the glass carafe, which contributes to the unit's sleek profile.

4. Five-Cup Capacity

Whether you're making coffee for yourself or a small group, the ZUTTO has got you covered. It can brew up to 5 cups of coffee at a time which is a convenient quantity without being overbearing.

5. Automatic Keep Warm

There’s nothing more disappointing than a cold cup of coffee, especially when you’re craving a hot one. The ZUTTO understands this, which is why it features an automatic keep-warm function. Your coffee stays warm, waiting for you to relish it.

Ease of Use

With the ZUTTO Coffee Maker, simplicity is the operative word. The removable water tank makes refilling a breeze. The charcoal filter takes the guesswork out of water purity. The compact design makes it easy to find a spot for this coffee maker in any space.

Moreover, the ZUTTO comes with an instruction manual in English, Traditional Chinese, and Korean, making it accessible and easy to use, regardless of where you are.

Who Is It For?

The ZUTTO Coffee Maker is for anyone who loves a great cup of coffee but desires simplicity and functionality. It’s particularly suited for those with limited space. The stylish, compact design is an aesthetic addition to any space.

And if you want to know how to use coffee creamer with any of these machines read this article.

Remember if you are looking for the best on-demand coffee maker we recommend the KBT Moccamaster

"May your coffee kick in before reality does."

If you prefer a more hands-on approach to coffee making check out our article on percolators.