There’s something undeniably satisfying about that first cup of coffee in the morning. For many, it’s a cherished ritual, the waft of freshly brewed coffee signaling the start of a new day. But the beans are only half of the equation—just as important is the coffee maker itself. Drip brewing, which involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds to allow rich flavors to pass through a filter, can yield a fantastic cup, especially with the right machine.
Drip coffee makers come in a range of styles, from basic models with a one-button operation to high-tech machines with advanced temperature settings and bloom cycles. The Oxo Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker sits on the higher end, combining quality construction with user-friendly features. With a durable stainless steel base and sturdy plastic for the water reservoir and brew basket, this machine feels well-built. Its double-walled stainless steel carafe and screw-on lid, helpfully marked for alignment, boost heat retention—a nice touch for those who prefer their coffee to stay hot for longer.
In testing, the Oxo Brew 8-Cup proved to be straightforward to operate. Its wide reservoir opening makes adding water a breeze, and during multiple test runs, there were no mishaps—no overflows from the brew basket, no stray coffee grounds ending up in the carafe. Each batch delivered consistently high-quality coffee, though it was the use of the SCA-recommended brewing ratio that really took the coffee’s flavor to the next level, creating a balanced, smooth experience from start to finish.
This coffee maker also scores points for longevity, maintaining the same great flavor up to the 60-minute mark—perfect for those who brew once and sip throughout the day. The coffee stayed warm in the thermal carafe, while the carafe itself remained cool to the touch, which is a reassuring safety feature, especially in homes with small children.
Cleaning the Oxo Brew is just as fuss-free. Even after a series of brew tests, the carafe, lid, and brew basket showed no signs of lingering coffee odors or stains. The machine’s simple design also makes it an easy countertop resident, though it’s lightweight enough to tuck away if counter space is at a premium.
Overall, the Oxo Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker hits most marks beautifully, delivering a flavorful brew, ease of use, and a clean-up process that requires little effort. If there’s one feature that could elevate it further, it would be a bloom cycle to let the coffee “breathe,” releasing carbon dioxide for an even fresher taste.
