Top Drip Coffee Maker: OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker Review

For anyone brewing coffee for themselves or a group, the OXO 8 Cup Coffee Maker is a fantastic option due to its user-friendly design and modern appearance. Although it may not keep your coffee piping hot for long and lacks features like a built-in grinder or clock, it certainly fulfills its purpose.

Advantages

• +

  Comes with both small and large filters

• +

  Stylish design

• +

  Features a Rainmaker showerhead

• +

  Eliminates pod waste

Disadvantages

• -

  Doesn't maintain warmth for extended periods

• -

  Lacks a coffee grinder

• -

  Water reservoir isn't detachable

Our team has rigorously tested the OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker to ensure it remains a leading choice in its category. While it isn't the fanciest model available, it excels in producing delicious filter coffee.

Specifications

Unboxing Experience

The coffee maker arrives in eco-friendly packaging, wrapped simply in cardboard. It includes a single-serving basket, a regular basket, and a coffee scoop. While there's a manual, figuring it out is straightforward. Its Rainmaker shower head ensures even water distribution over the grounds. With a modern finish, it complements other stainless steel appliances nicely.

Primarily, this coffee maker is intended for the larger brew basket, but it also includes a smaller filter for single servings, accommodating two to four cups. A double-wall, vacuum-insulated thermal carafe comes with a brew-through lid, allowing for quick pouring. Its sleek design enhances any kitchen.

User Experience

Using this coffee maker is fairly simple. However, the non-removable water tank means pouring water can be awkward, especially for those with mobility issues. After adding the appropriate amount of filtered water, choose to brew either a mug or a full carafe. This model is designed for a maximum of 8 cups, or 40 ounces.

Place a coffee filter in the chosen basket, add the grounds, and use the included scoop for precise measurement. Lock the brew basket in place, slide the toggle to select between single-serve or carafe mode, and press the power button. Choose between 2-4 cups or 5-8 cups based on your needs. Keep the brew basket lid closed during brewing.

Once brewing is complete, a chime signals readiness. The coffee consistently has a rich flavor, noticeably better than my previous coffee maker. The sleek, minimalist design ensures it looks great on the countertop. However, the carafe doesn't retain heat very long, so it's best to enjoy your coffee quickly.

Maintenance and Care

After use, rinse the carafe and allow it to dry. The brew baskets are dishwasher safe on the top rack. When the Clean button blinks, it indicates the need for descaling to remove mineral deposits. Fill the water tank with a descaling solution and select carafe mode before pressing the Clean button to start the cleaning cycle. After completion, refill the tank and run a water-only cycle before using the machine again.

Online Ratings

The OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker consistently ranks among the top choices in various buying guides. This recognition is based on its reputable performance and customer satisfaction.

Users praise the OXO for its exceptional taste and quality of brewed coffee. Many appreciate the single-cup feature, which rivals that of full carafes. Not every model can deliver a good single serving, making the OXO's capability noteworthy.

While features like insulation to keep coffee warm are commendable, some reviews mention the brewed coffee can be too hot initially. If you prefer cooler coffee, consider this point.

Competitor Comparison

While the OXO dominates the drip coffee maker market, it's worth noting its 9-Cup model. Though it brews well, it's bulkier and less convenient to pour from. In head-to-head comparisons, the 8-Cup version typically outperforms it.

For those seeking additional features, the Breville Precision Brewer Thermal Coffee Maker offers a coffee grinder and advanced settings. However, it comes at a higher price and may not match the OXO's flavor quality.

Should You Purchase It?

The OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker retails for $200 and is an excellent investment for regular coffee drinkers, particularly those serving multiple people. Its sleek design, reliability, and ease of use make it appealing. While it may not keep coffee hot for as long as some other options and lacks features like automatic brewing, it consistently delivers a quality cup of coffee.