Unlike the majority of filter machines, this machine will not just take pre-ground coffee but can also grind the beans for you thanks to the integrated blade. Already, the price seems justified.
Grinding the beans just before they are used increases the flavour, as the oils and aromas don’t have a chance to escape or evaporate between grinding and cup stage. There is also a grind-off feature in case you do have a favourite pre-ground blend already, but it is good to have the choice.
The warming plate under the glass carafe will keep the coffee warm for around 35 minutes, and auto-start allows you to programme in the timings so you can have a cup ready and waiting for when you need it most. An audible beeping noise lets you know when it is prepared.
Thanks to the metal filter, which is reusable, you don’t need to keep on top or ordering and buying your paper filters, and there will be no waste. Also included are two charcoal filters for the water tank, to improve the taste and cleanliness of the water before it turns into your coffee.
You may see that with older models, the carafe could stay warm for over two hours with the hot plate on, but with this one, it is only 35 minutes. This is simply in line with new regulations across the board, so doesn’t take away from the quality of the product or build from Cuisinart.
The buttons and controls are easy to manage and navigate, and a screen will inform you of the chosen settings.
All in all, it is a great machine for the price. The quality of the coffee produced isn’t as great as would be in a dedicated bean to cup machine, but having the best of both worlds for under £100 is pretty brilliant.