Smeg has once again impressed with its chic design. Although it's tall, this coffee maker adds a stunning touch to any kitchen. While its 10-cup capacity is less than average, the programmable timer makes it convenient to have your coffee ready when you rise.
Advantages of the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker
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Stylish appearance
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Brews multiple cups simultaneously
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Programmable timer feature
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Operates quietly
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Adjustable coffee strength
Disadvantages of the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker
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Size may be cumbersome
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Water reservoir can be tricky to fill
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Small cup measure
This is undeniably a Smeg product, standing out from other brands. With nine vibrant color options available, its retro-chrome curves are truly eye-catching. My personal choice is the vivid red model, which makes a bold impression on the countertop. The ten-cup capacity, along with a warming plate and programmable timer, elevates this coffee maker above simpler models.
Testing this coffee maker was an interesting experience for me. As a barista, I'm accustomed to grinding, tamping, and frothing coffee. However, the best drip coffee makers, like the Smeg, eliminate the need for those steps. All this machine required was the push of a button. If I set it up with my coffee routine, I wouldn't even need to touch it.
If you're after a hassle-free way to brew large amounts of coffee, this could be your perfect companion. While you pay a premium for its stylish design, it's definitely worth it.
Smeg Drip Coffee Maker Review
Specifications
| Model | DCF02 |
| Dimensions | 9.75 x 10 x 14.25 inches |
| Capacity | 1.5 qt (1.4 liter) |
| Power | 1050 watts |
| Material | Glass |
| Automatic timer | Yes |
| Weight | 7 lb 8 oz |
| Filter | Permanent |
| Sound | 46 dBA |
Unboxing the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker
Smeg has opted for recyclable cardboard for packaging the coffee maker, which is a nice touch. Although some plastic components are not recyclable, the environmental impact has improved from previous materials.
As I lifted the machine from its box, I quickly noticed its impressive size. Be cautious if you have low wall cupboards; this coffee maker stands at nearly fourteen inches tall. It's light enough to store but designed to be prominently displayed on your countertop, thanks to its LED features and presets.
Unlike many carafes that are mostly plastic, Smeg's glass carafe feels luxurious. The plastic lid facilitates easy cleaning. I appreciated the five holes in the spray head, which ensures a more even distribution of water over the coffee grounds, resulting in smoother and more consistent brews. The reusable filter eliminates the need for single-use paper filters, although you can still use a paper filter if you prefer that taste. Overall, this coffee maker felt premium and certainly enhances countertop aesthetics.
Who Would Enjoy This Coffee Maker?
If you're tired of coffee makers that only brew one cup at a time, this one can prepare up to ten cups in a single batch. Just keep in mind that Smeg's measurement of a cup is 150ml; I found that a regular mug holds about 275ml, meaning ten cups only equates to about five actual mugs. However, these precise measurements help prevent overbrewing and wasting coffee.
Drip coffee makers are not for those who enjoy elaborate coffee drinks. If you're seeking frothy beverages, intricate designs, or a range of coffee types, this model might not meet your needs. Additionally, if saving space or money is a priority, be aware that this coffee maker is larger and more expensive than many alternatives.
Using the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker
Pouring water into the reservoir at the back.
Once you set the time on the LED display, you're ready to start brewing. The process is straightforward. The front features four buttons: a clear on/off switch; a keep-warm function that maintains temperature for twenty to forty minutes; an aroma button for selecting between delicate and intense flavors; and a four-cup button that brews enough for four servings, plus an auto-start timer that allows for scheduled brewing.
Filling the water reservoir, located at the back of the machine, requires care as the opening is narrow. Using a jug to fill it is advisable since it holds 1.4 liters, and spillage could occur. The clear side panel indicates the remaining water level.
To begin brewing, I opened the lid and added three tablespoons of coffee grounds. After closing the premium lid and checking the clear panel, I was set to go.
Test 1: Four-Cup Setting
Adding coffee grounds to the filter.
I opted to start with the four-cup setting, which brews precisely for four servings. I simply pressed the button, and with a small beep, the machine began its work. I heard some bubbling sounds, but it remained quieter than 46 dBA, quieter than a household refrigerator according to Yale University's Decibel Conversion Chart.
In one and a half minutes, I had coffee enough for two cups. After three minutes, the four cups were brewed, and the machine stopped with another beep. The warming plate promises to keep coffee hot for twenty minutes. I poured myself a cup, activated the 'keep warm' setting, and let the machine do its job. Remarkably quietly, the coffee maker continued its task. After twenty minutes, the coffee was still too hot to drink immediately. While some coffee makers can keep coffee warm for an hour, which might lead to burnt coffee, this one performed admirably.
Programmable Timer and Aroma Function
Programmable Timer
Curious to test the programmable timer, I set it to start brewing at a specific time. True to its word, the machine began brewing right on schedule. At 46 dBA, I wouldn't mind having it running in the morning to wake me up with fresh coffee.
Aroma Function
I was intrigued by the aroma button. While I hoped for a dramatic flavor difference, I found it subtle. I tried both the normal and intense aroma settings, which depicted two coffee beans. Admittedly, the intense option provided a slightly stronger, richer flavor, but the difference wasn't groundbreaking. The coffee grounds I used were dark roast, so it may be challenging to notice flavor variations with a basic coffee maker. Nonetheless, it's a nice feature to have.
Overall, the taste was satisfactory. It's challenging to compare this coffee to coffee made from espresso machines or French presses, as those offer more intense flavors. This coffee was clean and soft, without acidity. If you're searching for café-quality coffee, you might find it lacking.
Cleaning, Storage, and Maintenance
Removing the filter for cleaning.
Cleaning this coffee maker was almost as simple as setting it up. I removed the reusable filter and disposed of the coffee grounds, which can go in food waste or be used for compost.
Washing the filter with warm, soapy water worked well. When I lifted the inside filter for cleaning, I spilled some coffee onto the countertop, so ensure it's completely emptied before moving it.
Cleaning the filter holder. Be cautious of spills.
To rinse the machine, simply place the carafe on the warming plate and switch it on. With one button press, it will run hot water through the system. Mine was relatively clean already, but it's a good habit to do this after use. The display will alert you when descaling is needed, though this isn't frequent.
As previously mentioned, this machine is sizable. The presets and clock indicate it's meant to remain on your countertop. It looks great, but ensure that low cupboards won't obstruct it.
Customer Ratings
Control buttons on the coffee maker.
Most reviews give this coffee maker at least four stars. Users appreciate the timer and larger capacity, particularly families or larger households. Its quick setup and user-friendly functionality make it appealing to a wide audience. It's no surprise that many love its appearance, as the range of colors attracts home designers who enjoy showcasing them in their kitchens.
However, I did encounter some issues. The size can be problematic for some users who struggle to fit it under cabinets in smaller kitchens. Some have expressed frustration with the descaling sensor, which can trigger too early. I also noticed that my coffee maker dripped a bit when I removed the carafe, likely due to the 'pause' function not working perfectly — an area for Smeg to improve.
Comparison with Similar Models
Overall, this model is on the pricier side. While its capacity is ten cups, many machines offer twelve cups. However, the additional presets can make up for this smaller capacity.
We recommend the OXO 8-cup coffee maker in our best drip coffee maker roundup. Although its capacity is lower than Smeg's, it brews more than Smeg's five actual cups. Additionally, it's one of the few drip coffee makers capable of making a single delicious serving. Standing at half the height of Smeg, it's much more space-saving and meets the Specialty Coffee Association's Golden Cup Standard for its brew quality, meaning the water quality, coffee ratio, and grind distribution are all top-notch. Priced at $100, it's a worthwhile investment.
While the OXO lacks programmability, making it less convenient for waking up to freshly brewed coffee, it simplifies the brewing process. Smeg's machine offers user-friendly features that prevent overbrewing and wasting coffee, and its stainless steel finish is less prone to showing marks compared to Smeg's designs.
Should You Purchase the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker?
If you're in the market for a stylish drip coffee maker, this is definitely one to consider. Although it's larger and more expensive, it fulfills the essential functions of a coffee machine effectively. The coffee produced is smooth and flavorful. However, if you seek specialty coffee and don't mind brewing individual servings, you might want to explore alternative coffee makers.
Testing Process
A cup brewed with the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker.
Before we recommend any product, we conduct real-world tests as though it's part of everyday life. Our testing process for coffee makers is thorough. As a trained barista and Customer Advisor for coffee, I've undergone extensive training to become knowledgeable about coffee.
Prior to testing, we carefully investigate the claims made by brands about their products, ensuring we know what to look for. We also evaluate and compare competitors to accurately position each product within the market.
I tested the Smeg drip coffee maker alongside other automatic and espresso machines in a typical kitchen, assessing every function. At every stage, from unboxing to cleanup, I made detailed notes and observations.
