Ninja DualBrew Hot and Iced Coffee Maker review Best for Pods and Grounds

Description

A Versatile Coffee Maker for All Preferences

I recently had the chance to try out the Ninja DualBrew Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, CFP101, and let me just say that this machine has completely changed the way I approach my coffee routine. As someone who’s pretty fussy about the taste, temperature, and brewing options of my coffee, this product didn’t disappoint. However, while it’s a solid machine overall, there are definitely some aspects that might not work for everyone.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed when unboxing this coffee maker was its sleek and modern design. Its compact dimensions of 11.03″ x 9.9″ x 15.22″ make it easy to fit on any countertop without taking up too much space. The black finish gives it a professional look, blending seamlessly with my other kitchen appliances. Despite being lightweight at 8.8 pounds, it feels sturdy and well-made.

One thing I appreciated was the removable 60-oz. water reservoir. This feature made refilling super easy, and I didn’t have to worry about awkwardly spilling water all over the counter. Plus, the foldable single-serve platform is a clever addition, especially for those smaller cups that tend to splash during brewing. It’s clear that Ninja put thought into the practicality of the design.

Brewing Options Galore

With this coffee maker, you’re spoiled for choice. It supports both ground coffee and pods, which is a game-changer for households with varying coffee preferences. I tested all 9 grounds brew sizes (ranging from a small cup to a full 12-cup carafe) as well as the 4 pod brew sizes (6, 8, 10, and 12 oz.), and the results were consistently good. The brewing process was fast, especially compared to my old Keurig. Ninja claims it’s faster than the Keurig K-Elite, and honestly, I believe them.

The Classic, Rich, and Over Ice brew styles are another standout feature. I loved the “Rich” option for days when I wanted a stronger flavor, while the Over Ice setting worked wonders for creating iced coffee that wasn’t watered down. For someone who loves experimenting with different coffee styles, this machine provides endless possibilities.

Key Benefits

• Versatility: Brew both ground coffee and pods effortlessly.
• Adjustable Warming Plate: Keeps coffee warm for up to 4 hours, which is great for those lazy mornings.
• Thermal Flavor Extraction Duo: Ensures even saturation and precise temperature control, delivering consistently flavorful coffee.
• Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Cleaning is a breeze, thanks to the removable Ninja pod adapter and other dishwasher-friendly components.

Areas for Improvement

While I genuinely enjoyed using this coffee maker, there are a few caveats to consider:

• Noisy Operation: Brewing, especially for a full carafe, can be a bit loud. It’s not unbearable, but if you’re brewing early in the morning, it might wake others in the house.
• Learning Curve: With so many options, it takes time to figure out which settings work best for your preferences.
• Plastic Components: Although the design is sleek, some parts feel a bit flimsy, particularly the foldable platform.

Product Competitors

Comparing this coffee maker to other options on the market, it holds its own in several areas. For instance, the Keurig K-Elite is a strong competitor, but it lacks the extensive grounds brewing options and the thermal flavor extraction technology that Ninja offers. On the other hand, machines like the Cuisinart Coffee Center provide similar dual capabilities but often lack the over-ice brewing feature, which really sets the Ninja apart.

Where the Ninja could use improvement, however, is in its noise level and build quality. The Breville Bambino Plus, while not a direct competitor, offers a more premium build and quieter operation, but it’s limited to espresso-based drinks. If you’re looking for versatility across brewing styles, the Ninja is tough to beat.

Worth Every Penny?

When looking at the value proposition, this coffee maker offers a lot of bang for the buck. The combination of multiple brew styles, dual compatibility with pods and grounds, and user-friendly features makes it a fantastic choice for coffee enthusiasts. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the flexibility and quality more than justify the investment.

If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with different coffee styles or needs a machine that can cater to a household with diverse preferences, this product is absolutely worth considering. However, if noise or durability are major concerns, you might want to explore other options. For me, though, it’s been a reliable and enjoyable addition to my kitchen.

Additional information