BUNN GRB Velocity Brew 10-Cup Home Coffee Brewer, Black vs Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker, Single Serve

Design and Build Quality

The BUNN GRB Velocity Brew features a classic design with a stainless-steel faceplate and a sleek black finish, while the Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker showcases a modern, multifunctional appearance. The BUNN model stands out with its exclusive drip-free carafe, designed to deliver a clean pour without spills. Both machines are built to last, with the BUNN offering a 3-year warranty which speaks to its durability. In contrast, the Ninja emphasizes versatility with a fold-away frother and an independent hot water system, catering to a broader range of coffee and tea enthusiasts.

Brewing Speed and Capacity

When it comes to brewing speed, the BUNN GRB Velocity Brew is a standout, capable of making a full 10-cup carafe in about 4 minutes—almost half the time of typical coffee makers. This rapid brewing is made possible by its internal hot water tank that keeps 70oz of water ready for immediate use. The Ninja, while slightly slower, offers a dual brewing system that accommodates both coffee grounds and pods, with the ability to brew a full carafe or single servings. The Ninja's versatility allows for five brewing sizes and four carafe options, making it suitable for varying needs, but it does not match the BUNN's speed.

Versatility and Features

The Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker excels in versatility, featuring multiple brewing styles including Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty options. It allows users to select from various pod and ground sizes, making it adaptable to different preferences and occasions. Meanwhile, the BUNN GRB focuses on delivering a café-style experience with its commercial-style multi-stream sprayhead that enhances flavor extraction. While the BUNN is designed for quick brewing of traditional coffee, the Ninja accommodates a wider range of brewing methods, including the ability to create lattes and other specialty drinks thanks to its built-in frother.

Flavor and Brew Quality

In terms of flavor, both machines aim to deliver high-quality coffee, but they approach it differently. The BUNN GRB utilizes a commercial-grade brewing method, ensuring that each cup is brewed with optimal flavor extraction due to its precise water temperature and flow. The exclusive drip-free carafe also helps in presenting coffee without bitterness. On the other hand, the Ninja employs Thermal Flavor Extraction DUO technology, which provides an even saturation of coffee grounds for enhanced taste. The inclusion of a permanent filter in the Ninja also allows for richer flavor retention, offering a taste akin to that of a French press.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Both coffee makers prioritize user-friendliness, but they have different strengths. The BUNN GRB’s straightforward setup requires minimal effort, allowing users to brew coffee almost instantly after filling the water tank and coffee grounds. However, its maintenance involves occasional cleaning of the water tank to prevent residue build-up. The Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker, with its fold-away frother and permanent filter, simplifies the brewing process and eliminates the need for disposable filters, making it easier for users who want to reduce waste. Both machines are designed to be user-friendly, but the Ninja might edge out in ease of cleaning and versatility.

Price Comparison

The BUNN GRB Velocity Brew is currently priced at $130.00, while the Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker is available for $214.99, making the BUNN approximately 39% cheaper. This price difference is significant and may influence buyers who are budget-conscious but still want a quality coffee maker. While the Ninja offers more features and versatility, the BUNN’s lower price point may appeal to those who primarily want a reliable and fast coffee brewing experience without additional complexities.

Customer Reception

In terms of popularity, the Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker ranks higher with a bestseller rank of 6917 compared to the BUNN GRB's rank of 13239. This suggests that the Ninja is favored among consumers, potentially due to its multifunctional capabilities and modern features. However, the BUNN's solid reputation for speed and quality brewing should not be overlooked, as it continues to attract a loyal base of users who prioritize straightforward coffee making.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the BUNN GRB Velocity Brew and the Ninja Hot and Iced Coffee Maker ultimately depends on your coffee preferences and brewing needs. If you prioritize speed and a classic coffee experience, the BUNN is the better choice, especially with its quick brewing time and lower price. However, if you seek versatility and the ability to craft a variety of coffee styles, including iced coffee and specialty drinks, the Ninja offers features that may justify its higher price. Each machine serves its audience well, so consider your coffee habits and preferences before making a decision.