OXO Brew vs. Technivorm Moccamaster: Which Coffee Maker Brews the Best Cup?

Forget the endless aisle of coffee makers—choosing the right one shouldn't feel like rocket science. You want a great cup of coffee, plain and simple. Two machines consistently rise to the top: the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker and the Technivorm Moccamaster. This comparison breaks down the features, performance, and value of each, helping you decide which one deserves a spot on your countertop.

Quick Comparison Table

OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker: A Modern Marvel

The OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker has become a favorite among coffee enthusiasts for its user-friendly design and consistent brewing quality. It's a modern machine that prioritizes ease of use without sacrificing the nuances of a great cup of coffee. The OXO Brew excels at providing a consistent brew temperature, a crucial factor in extracting the best flavors from your coffee grounds. It also features a unique "Rainmaker" shower head that evenly distributes water over the grounds, ensuring optimal saturation.

Tip: Regular cleaning is essential for any coffee maker. The OXO Brew is designed to be easy to clean, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to maintain optimal performance.

Key Features of the OXO Brew:

• Precise Temperature Control: Maintains the ideal brewing temperature for optimal flavor extraction.
• "Rainmaker" Shower Head: Ensures even saturation of coffee grounds.
• Double-Walled, Vacuum-Insulated Carafe: Keeps coffee hot for hours without a hot plate.
• Intuitive Interface: Simple and easy-to-use controls.
• Programmable Timer: Set it and forget it – enjoy fresh coffee whenever you want.

Technivorm Moccamaster: The Handcrafted Classic

The Technivorm Moccamaster is a legendary name in the coffee world, renowned for its exceptional build quality, consistent performance, and handcrafted construction. Made in the Netherlands, the Moccamaster is built to last, often outliving other coffee makers by many years. Its simple, elegant design belies a powerful brewing system that delivers a consistently delicious cup of coffee. The Moccamaster's copper heating element ensures that water reaches the optimal brewing temperature quickly and maintains it throughout the brewing process. This is a crucial element for extracting the best flavors from your coffee beans.

Warning: The Moccamaster's carafe sits on a hot plate, which can continue to cook the coffee if left for too long. Be mindful of how long the coffee sits on the hot plate to avoid bitterness.

Key Features of the Technivorm Moccamaster:

• Handmade in the Netherlands: Each machine is built with meticulous attention to detail.
• Copper Heating Element: Ensures precise and consistent brewing temperature.
• Fast Brewing Time: Brews a full pot in approximately 6 minutes.
• Durable Construction: Built to last for years.
• Simple Operation: No complicated settings or features.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Let's break down the key features of each coffee maker to see how they stack up against each other:

Brewing Temperature: Both machines excel here. The OXO Brew's precise temperature control system and the Moccamaster's copper heating element both ensure optimal brewing temperatures, which is critical for flavor extraction. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) recommends an ideal brewing temperature between 195-205°F (90.6-96.1°C). Both machines are designed to meet this standard.

Brewing Speed: The Moccamaster is known for its speed, brewing a full pot in about 6 minutes. The OXO Brew is slightly slower, taking around 6-8 minutes. If you're in a hurry in the morning, the Moccamaster has a slight advantage.

Design & Build Quality: The Technivorm Moccamaster, with its handmade construction and durable materials, is undeniably superior in build quality. The OXO Brew has a more modern, plastic construction and is still well-built, but it doesn't have the same premium feel or longevity as the Moccamaster. The Moccamaster's design is also iconic and has remained largely unchanged for decades, a testament to its enduring appeal.

Ease of Use: Both machines are relatively easy to use, but the OXO Brew offers more features, such as a programmable timer and a more intuitive interface, making it slightly more user-friendly for beginners. The Moccamaster is straightforward, with minimal settings, which some users will prefer.

Pricing: What You Get for Your Money

• OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker: Around $200
• Technivorm Moccamaster: Around $350

The price difference is significant. The OXO Brew offers excellent value for its price, providing many of the features of a high-end machine at a more accessible cost. The Moccamaster is a more significant investment, but its superior build quality, longevity, and consistent performance justify the higher price for many coffee lovers. Let's be honest—you're paying for quality with the Moccamaster. The price of coffee makers ranges significantly, with some high-end machines costing upwards of $500, but these two represent good points of comparison between quality and price.

Best For: Who Should Buy Which Coffee Maker?

• OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker:

  • Coffee drinkers who prioritize ease of use and modern features.
  • Those looking for a high-quality machine at a more affordable price point.
  • Individuals who appreciate the convenience of a programmable timer.

• Technivorm Moccamaster:

  • Coffee enthusiasts who value build quality and longevity.
  • Those who appreciate a classic, handcrafted design.
  • Users who want a fast, consistently excellent brew.
  • People willing to invest in a machine that will last for years.

Our Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Brew

Choosing between the OXO Brew and the Technivorm Moccamaster depends on your priorities and budget. The OXO Brew is an excellent all-around coffee maker that offers a great balance of features, performance, and value. It's a fantastic option for most coffee drinkers. If you want a great cup of coffee at a reasonable price, the OXO Brew is a great choice. The Moccamaster, on the other hand, is a premium machine that excels in build quality and brewing consistency. It's a worthwhile investment for serious coffee lovers who want the best possible cup and are willing to pay a premium. Ultimately, both machines deliver delicious coffee; the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Additional Considerations:

• Grind Size: Regardless of the coffee maker you choose, use the correct grind size for drip coffee. Too fine a grind will result in a bitter brew, while too coarse a grind will produce a weak one.
• Water Quality: Use filtered water for the best-tasting coffee. The minerals in tap water can affect the flavor.
• Freshness: Use fresh, whole-bean coffee and grind it just before brewing for optimal flavor.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Consider your budget: The OXO Brew offers excellent value, while the Moccamaster is a long-term investment.
• Prioritize features: If you value ease of use and programmability, the OXO Brew might be a better fit. If build quality and speed are paramount, consider the Moccamaster.
• Experiment with different beans: Once you've chosen your coffee maker, try different coffee beans to discover your favorite flavors.
• Clean regularly: Regardless of which machine you choose, proper cleaning is essential for optimal performance and longevity.