Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee vs OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker – Stainless Steel,

Price Comparison

The Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker is significantly more affordable than the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker. Priced at $45.95, it is about 79% cheaper than the OXO model, which retails for $223.00. This price difference makes the Hamilton Beach a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable coffee maker without breaking the bank. While the OXO Brew offers advanced features, the cost may deter some buyers, especially those who prioritize basic functionality over premium options.

Brewing Options

Both the Hamilton Beach and the OXO Brew provide customizable brewing experiences, but they do so in different ways. The Hamilton Beach offers a Select-A-Brew feature, allowing users to select from three brew strength options: regular, bold, or 1-4 cups for smaller servings. This flexibility caters to various preferences, making it ideal for households with diverse coffee tastes. On the other hand, the OXO Brew is equipped with BetterBrew Precision Brewing technology, which optimizes water temperature and brew cycles, ensuring rich flavor extraction regardless of the amount brewed. While both machines excel in this area, the OXO's precision technology may appeal more to coffee enthusiasts.

Carafe Design

The design of the carafes sets these two coffee makers apart. The Hamilton Beach features a 12-cup borosilicate glass carafe, which is easy to clean and dishwasher safe. It also includes a nonstick warming plate for convenience. In contrast, the OXO Brew comes with a double-wall stainless steel thermal carafe, designed to keep coffee hot longer while maintaining its flavor integrity. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who like to sip coffee over an extended period. While glass may be easier to clean, the thermal carafe's ability to maintain temperature is a significant advantage for OXO.

Programmability

When it comes to programmability, both machines shine but offer different features. The Hamilton Beach allows users to program their coffee up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that a fresh pot is ready when you wake up. It also includes an auto pause and pour feature, which lets you pour a cup before brewing is complete. Conversely, the OXO Brew is fully programmable with a single dial that allows for easy selection of cup size and setting of the automatic wake-up timer. Although both machines offer programmable features, the Hamilton Beach's advanced scheduling and ease of use could be more attractive for those who want a simple morning routine.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning is a crucial aspect of coffee maker ownership, and both models offer convenient maintenance options. The Hamilton Beach's brew basket and carafe are dishwasher safe, making cleanup straightforward. Its nonstick warming plate is designed for easy wiping, enhancing the user experience. In comparison, the OXO Brew's thermal carafe requires hand washing to preserve its insulation qualities, which may be inconvenient for some. However, it does ensure that the last sip of coffee remains as fresh as the first, thanks to its internal mixing tube. While both machines have their cleaning advantages, the Hamilton Beach stands out for its ease of maintenance.

Coffee Quality

Quality of coffee is paramount, and both the Hamilton Beach and the OXO Brew have unique features that contribute to the brewing process. The Hamilton Beach's multiple brew strength options allow users to customize their coffee experience, while the auto pause and pour feature ensures that users can enjoy their first cup without waiting for the brewing cycle to finish. The OXO Brew, however, is SCA Certified, which signifies that it meets high standards for home brewing. Its temperature-controlled brewing process and Rainmaker shower head ensure even water distribution over coffee grounds for optimal flavor extraction. For coffee purists, the OXO Brew may be the superior choice due to its focus on brewing excellence.

Size and Footprint

Space considerations can be critical in a kitchen, and the size of these coffee makers may influence purchasing decisions. The Hamilton Beach has a compact design that fits well on most countertops without taking up excessive space, making it suitable for smaller kitchens. The OXO Brew, while slightly larger due to its thermal carafe design, still manages to maintain a relatively manageable footprint. However, those with very limited counter space may find the Hamilton Beach more accommodating. If kitchen space is a priority, the Hamilton Beach could be the better option.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker and the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker depends largely on your priorities as a coffee drinker. If you are looking for an affordable, user-friendly machine with good brewing flexibility, the Hamilton Beach is an excellent choice at $45.95. However, if you value coffee quality and advanced brewing technology and are willing to invest more, the OXO Brew, priced at $223.00, may be worth the splurge. Ultimately, each machine has its strengths, catering to different types of coffee enthusiasts.