Ninja DualBrew Coffee Maker review Best Hot and Iced Brewing Machine

Description

First Impressions and Design

The Ninja DualBrew Hot & Iced Coffee Maker (CFP101) immediately caught my eye with its sleek and modern black finish, which blends effortlessly into any kitchen aesthetic. The compact dimensions—11.03″ D x 9.9″ W x 15.22″ H—make it ideal for countertops without feeling bulky. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful design touches like the foldable single-serve platform, which minimizes splashing when brewing into smaller cups. The 60-ounce removable reservoir is another standout feature, making refills hassle-free. It feels like a well-thought-out appliance built for convenience, and the sleek buttons offer an intuitive interface. While the overall build is sturdy, the plastic components feel somewhat lightweight, which could be a consideration for long-term durability.

Brewing Performance and Versatility

I tested the dual coffee maker system, and I have to say, it’s a game-changer. The ability to brew both coffee pods (like K-Cups) and grounds offers a flexibility that’s hard to match. With nine different brew sizes for grounds (ranging from a small cup to a full carafe) and four pod brew sizes (6, 8, 10, or 12 oz.), it caters perfectly to varying preferences. The three brew styles—Classic, Rich, and Over Ice— add another layer of customization. I found the “Over Ice” option particularly impressive; it brews coffee that’s flavorful without becoming watered down, even after adding ice. The thermal flavor extraction duo, which ensures even saturation and precise temperature, lives up to its promise of delivering ultra-flavorful coffee. Whether I was brewing a single cup or a carafe for guests, the machine consistently delivered.

Positive Features

There are several key benefits of this coffee maker that stood out during my testing:

• Faster brewing compared to competitors like the Keurig K-Elite, especially on startup.
• The adjustable warming plate keeps coffee warm for up to four hours, which is perfect for slow mornings.
• The cleaning function and dishwasher-safe components make maintenance incredibly easy.
• The Ninja Pod Adapter is removable, simplifying deep cleaning when needed.
• Its dual functionality eliminates the need for multiple coffee machines, saving both space and money.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

This machine is built with convenience in mind. The fully automatic operation mode simplifies the brewing process, while the included Ninja Smart Scoop ensures accurate coffee measurements. Cleaning was straightforward thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts and the clean function. I particularly liked that the Ninja Pod Adapter could be removed for deep cleaning, as I’m always cautious about residue build-up in coffee makers. However, I did notice that the paper filter kit can be a bit finicky to replace, especially when in a rush.

Downsides

While the coffee maker performs exceptionally well, there are a few less favorable aspects worth mentioning:

• The plastic components feel less durable compared to other coffee machines in its price range.
• It can be a bit noisy during the brewing process, particularly when using the “Over Ice” setting.
• The 60-ounce reservoir is convenient but could benefit from a water level indicator for better visibility.

These aren’t dealbreakers, but they’re worth considering if you’re a stickler for quiet performance or exceptionally durable materials.

Competing Products

Compared to peer products like the Keurig K-Elite and Breville Bambino Plus, this coffee maker holds its ground well. The K-Elite offers similar pod brewing capabilities but lacks the versatility of brewing with grounds and pods in one system. On the other hand, the Breville Bambino Plus specializes in espresso and may appeal more to those who prefer lattes and cappuccinos. Where the Ninja DualBrew truly shines is in its three brew style options, which neither competitor provides. However, the plastic build quality of the Ninja falls short when compared to the more robust construction of the Breville.

Price Performance

From a value proposition standpoint, this coffee maker offers a lot for its price. The ability to brew both pods and grounds, coupled with features like auto shut-off and a cup warmer, makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, its cost efficiency is evident given the range of features it packs. If you’re someone who enjoys both hot and iced coffee, this machine justifies the investment with its high-quality brewing and customizable settings.

In summary, the Ninja DualBrew Hot & Iced Coffee Maker (CFP101) is an excellent choice for coffee lovers who value versatility and convenience. While it has a few minor shortcomings, its robust feature set and adaptability make it a standout option in the realm of home coffee machines.

Additional information