Cuisinart DCC-1170BKNAS 10-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker review is this the best drip machine

Description

Stylish Design and User-Friendly Features

The Cuisinart 10-Cup Thermal Classic™ Coffeemaker, DCC-1170BKNAS, stands out with its sleek and functional design. It’s compact enough to fit on most countertops without taking up too much space, measuring just 7.97″ in depth and 8.13″ in width. The black thermal finish gives it a polished, modern touch, blending seamlessly into any kitchen decor. I particularly appreciated the ergonomic handle of the thermal carafe, which feels sturdy and comfortable to grip. The knuckle guard and drip-free spout? Absolute lifesavers for avoiding messy coffee spills. While using it, I noticed that everything from the buttons to the LCD clock is laid out intuitively, making it super easy to navigate—even before my first cup of coffee.

Performance and Programmability

This coffee machine isn’t just about looks; it delivers serious functionality. The 24-hour programmability feature comes in handy for those of us who daydream about waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee. I tested the 1 to 4-cup setting for smaller batches, and the quality remained consistent—it didn’t taste watered down or overly concentrated. The 60-second reset feature surprised me when I accidentally unplugged the machine mid-brew. Instead of starting over, it resumed right where it left off! Plus, the Brew Pause™ feature lets me sneak a cup mid-cycle without making a mess, which is a game-changer during chaotic mornings.

Key Benefits

• Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without needing a hot plate.
• Programmability ensures coffee is ready when you are.
• Built-in charcoal water filter enhances the flavor by removing impurities.
• Reusable gold-tone filter eliminates the need for paper filters, making it environmentally friendly.

Brew Quality and Convenience

Making coffee with this product feels like a ritual. I used different grind sizes and coffee brands over the course of my testing, and the results were consistently good. However, I did notice that grind size affects the brew significantly, as the product manual mentions. Finer grinds can lead to slower brewing, while coarser grinds may result in slightly weaker coffee. The gold-tone filter plays a key role in delivering a clean, rich flavor, and the charcoal water filter ensures the water used doesn’t interfere with the taste. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with coffee styles, this machine gives you room to tweak and customize the process.

Areas for Improvement

• The carafe lid can be a bit tricky to clean thoroughly, especially if you’re picky about keeping every part spotless.
• While the thermal carafe keeps coffee hot, it doesn’t maintain the same piping hot temperature as a glass carafe with a heating plate.
• The LCD display isn’t backlit, making it a little difficult to read in low-light conditions.

Product Comparisons

Compared to other programmable coffee makers like the Breville Precision Brewer or the Keurig K-Supreme, this machine holds its ground in terms of simplicity and focus on thermal brewing. Unlike Keurig’s pod system, which creates waste, this coffee maker emphasizes sustainability with its reusable filter. However, the Breville Precision Brewer does offer more advanced brewing options like adjustable temperature controls, which hardcore coffee enthusiasts might find appealing. On the flip side, this product is less complicated, making it perfect for everyday users who value convenience over customization.

Quality for Price

Is this coffee maker worth it? I’d say yes, especially if you’re looking for a durable, programmable machine that prioritizes flavor and ease of use. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the reusable filter, thermal carafe, and programmable settings make it a solid investment. While pricier machines might offer more bells and whistles, this one focuses on the essentials, delivering consistent quality without overwhelming you with too many options.

Downsides

• Thermal carafe temperature may not satisfy those who prefer their coffee extremely hot.
• Cleaning the lid of the carafe requires extra attention.
• LCD readability could be improved for early risers or night owls brewing in dimly lit kitchens.

Final Thoughts

The Cuisinart 10-Cup Thermal Classic™ Coffeemaker is a reliable choice for anyone who values freshly brewed coffee and ease of use. While it might not have every high-end feature under the sun, it does a fantastic job of delivering great-tasting coffee with minimal effort. Whether you’re brewing for one or hosting a brunch, this machine has you covered.

Additional information