Cuisinart DGB-850 Review Fully Automatic Burr Grind and Brew Thermal Coffeemaker

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Cuisinart DGB-850FR Fully Automatic 10-Cup Burr Grind and Brew Thermal Coffeemaker doesn’t just brew coffee; it makes a statement on your countertop. This sleek silver appliance, with its professional-grade finish, adds a modern touch to any kitchen. The dimensions of 10.75″ x 14.25″ x 19.25″ make it a bit larger than other machines I’ve used, but it’s justified by the features packed inside. The thermal carafe is a standout—it’s solid, keeps coffee hot for hours, and has a comfortable grip that feels natural in hand. However, I noticed that at over 16 pounds, it’s not the most portable option. It’s clearly designed to stay in one spot and own that space.

Performance and Features

This machine doesn’t mess around when it comes to brewing. The professional-style burr grinder is one of its best features, delivering uniform consistency for a richer flavor. I tried beans from different roasters, and the grind quality made a noticeable difference. The DirectFlow grind assembly is brilliant—ground coffee moves directly into the brew basket, minimizing mess. Plus, the AutoRinse feature ensures no stray grounds get left behind. I love the flavor strength options (regular, bold, and extra-bold), which let me fine-tune my coffee depending on how much caffeine I need to face the day. The grind control allows brewing anywhere between 4 to 10 cups, and for days when I’m in a rush, the grind-off feature lets me use pre-ground coffee instead.

The extra-large LCD display and simple button controls make using it straightforward, even when I’m barely awake. The 24-hour programmable brew start lets me wake up to the smell of fresh coffee, and the Brew Pause feature is a lifesaver for those moments when I need caffeine NOW, even if the pot isn’t finished brewing.

Key Benefits

• Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without burning it.
• Burr grinder ensures consistent grind quality for better flavor.
• Customizable brew options like grind control and flavor strength.
• DirectFlow grind assembly minimizes mess and hassle.
• Programmable settings for convenience and flexibility.

Caveats

• Cleaning the grinder assembly can be a bit tedious, especially if you’ve brewed multiple pots in one day.
• The size and weight make it less ideal for smaller kitchens or those who like to move their appliances around.
• The LCD display, while functional, feels slightly dated compared to touchscreens on competitor models.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

As someone who’s not a fan of fiddly machines, I found this coffee maker unusually user-friendly. The gold-tone reusable filter eliminates the need for paper filters, which is both eco-friendly and cost-effective. The inclusion of a charcoal water filter is a thoughtful touch, ensuring impurities don’t ruin the flavor of your brew. However, maintaining the grinder requires some effort. I had to take apart the grind assembly and rinse it after several uses, which is not difficult but adds an extra step.

Competing Products

In the world of grind-and-brew coffee makers, there are a few big players. For instance, Breville’s grind-and-brew models are known for their touchscreen displays and modern design, but they often come at a higher price point. While Breville’s machines are quieter, they don’t include a thermal carafe, which is a major win for Cuisinart’s model. On the other hand, De’Longhi offers a similar feature set, but I found their machines less intuitive to operate. The DirectFlow grind assembly in this Cuisinart machine is a unique feature that I didn’t see in many competitors, making it stand out for those who value a clean brewing process.

True Value

When evaluating the price-to-quality ratio, this machine delivers impressive value for coffee lovers who crave fresh, customizable brews. While it’s an investment, the durable build, thermal carafe, and burr grinder make it worth considering. It suits someone who’s serious about coffee but doesn’t want the hassle of multiple devices. That said, if you’re an occasional coffee drinker or prefer simple drip brewers, this might feel like overkill.

Additional information