OXO Rapid Brewer review compact manual coffee maker for hot and cold brew

Description

The OXO Brew Rapid Brewer: A Portable Coffee Maker Worth Exploring

As someone who drinks coffee like it’s a personality trait, I was intrigued by the OXO Brew Rapid Brewer (model 8722500). This compact manual coffee maker promises to deliver rich, café-style coffee in mere minutes—all without needing power or fancy pods. I had to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it’s not perfect, but it’s pretty darn close.

Design and Portability: Built for Life on the Go

The first thing I noticed was how lightweight and travel-friendly this coffee maker is. It’s designed to fit snugly into a backpack, purse, or carry-on, making it ideal for someone like me who’s always on the move. At just 3 inches wide and 10.5 inches tall, it’s roughly the size of a travel mug. That’s perfect for commuters, campers, or anyone tired of overpriced airport coffee.

The built-in stainless steel filter is a standout feature. It eliminates the need for wasteful paper filters, which is a huge win for both convenience and the environment. Plus, the carafe and water chamber are made from durable Tritan Renew, containing 50% certified recycled content. It’s nice to see a company thinking sustainably!

Winning Points

• Compact and lightweight design makes it extremely portable.
• No power needed! Perfect for off-grid mornings or hotel stays.
• Reusable stainless steel filter saves money and reduces waste.
• Dishwasher-safe components (except the pump) make cleaning a breeze.
• Customizable brew strength lets you fine-tune your coffee just the way you like it.

Brewing Performance: Quick and Flavorful

This coffee maker is all about speed and convenience. It brews hot coffee in just two minutes and cold brew in five. That’s a game-changer for people like me who lack the patience for traditional brewing methods.

The process is simple: add finely ground coffee to the fill line, tamp it down, and pour in hot or cold water. The rainmaker showerhead ensures even water distribution for maximum flavor extraction. Once brewed, you unlock the pump with a quick turn and press your coffee concentrate into the included carafe.

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about the “café-style” claim. But the coffee was rich, smooth, and surprisingly bold for such a small device. Diluting the concentrate with water or milk allows you to create everything from an Americano to a Vietnamese-style iced coffee. I even tried it with ice cream for an affogato—definitely a highlight of my day.

Areas for Improvement

• The pump mechanism feels a bit stiff and takes some effort to press.
• Not great for brewing larger quantities—single-serve only.
• The manual process might not appeal to everyone, especially those used to automatic machines.
• The metal filter lets some fine grounds through, so expect a bit of sediment in your cup.

Ease of Cleaning: A Breeze for the Most Part

Cleaning this coffee maker is surprisingly easy. All parts—except the pump—are dishwasher-safe. I ran the carafe and water chamber through the dishwasher, and they came out spotless. The pump needs to be hand-washed, but that’s a minor inconvenience. For a device designed to travel, the easy cleanup is a big plus.

Rival Brands: How It Stacks Up

Compared to other manual coffee makers, like the Aeropress or French press, the OXO Brew Rapid Brewer holds its own. The built-in stainless steel filter eliminates the need for paper filters, which neither competitor offers. However, the Aeropress edges ahead in terms of ease of use and versatility.

On the other hand, French presses often brew larger quantities, making them better for group settings. But they don’t match the speed or portability of this device. If you value compactness and quick brewing, this coffee maker is in a league of its own.

Cost-Effectiveness

Given its features, this coffee maker offers fantastic value for money. You’re essentially getting a portable espresso machine without the hefty price tag. While it’s not the cheapest manual brewer out there, the durable design and reusable filter make it a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers. Plus, you’ll save money by skipping those daily café visits.

Verdict

The OXO Brew Rapid Brewer is a solid choice for anyone who values portability, speed, and customization in their coffee routine. While it has a few minor flaws, like the stiff pump and single-serve capacity, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Whether you’re commuting, camping, or just want better coffee at home, this little device delivers.

I can’t say it will replace my full-size coffee machine, but it’s definitely earned a permanent spot in my travel bag. For me, the ability to have rich, café-style coffee wherever I go is worth every penny.

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