Cuisinart 10-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker DCC-1170BKNAS review programmable coffee machine for fresh brewing

Description

Classic Design with a Modern Twist

Let me start by saying that the Cuisinart 10-Cup Thermal Classic™ Coffeemaker (DCC-1170BKNAS) has a sleek, minimalist design that fits seamlessly into my kitchen. The black thermal finish gives it a polished, modern appearance, while the compact dimensions (7.97″ D x 8.13″ W x 14.25″ H) make it a space-saver on the countertop. Its ergonomic handle and knuckle guard on the thermal carafe aren’t just design elements—they’re practical. I’ve poured countless cups without a single drip or spill. The easy-to-read LCD clock is a small but appreciated feature, especially when I’m fumbling for coffee first thing in the morning.

Key Benefits

• Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours, perfect for lazy mornings.
• Compact design that doesn’t dominate counter space.
• Knuckle guard and drip-free spout prevent messes.

Performance That Delivers Every Time

This coffee maker proves its worth right out of the box. I tested it with several types of ground coffee, and the results were consistently smooth and rich. The brew time is programmable up to 24 hours, which means I can wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee every morning. Additionally, the Brew Pause™ feature is a lifesaver when I just can’t wait for the whole pot; I can grab a quick cup mid-cycle without any mess.

The gold-tone commercial-style permanent filter and charcoal water filter are standout features. They purify the water and enhance the flavor of the coffee, and I’ve noticed a significant difference compared to some other machines I’ve used. However, I did need to experiment with the grind size and amount of coffee as the extraction can vary—something to keep in mind.

Good Aspects

• 24-hour programmability for ultimate convenience.
• Brew Pause™ allows mid-brew serving.
• Water filtration ensures a cleaner, richer coffee taste.

Areas for Improvement

While I’ve been mostly impressed, there are a few things that could be better. For starters, the thermal carafe, while excellent at keeping coffee hot, can be a bit tricky to clean due to its narrow opening. I also found that the buttons on the control panel are a little too basic, lacking the tactile feedback I prefer. Lastly, the unit weight of 8 pounds makes it slightly heavier than expected for a coffee maker of this size, which could be an issue for some users.

Weaknesses

• Cleaning the thermal carafe can be a challenge.
• Buttons feel slightly outdated, lacking that modern touch.
• Slightly heavier than comparable models.

Competing Products

When comparing this coffee maker to similar products, it holds its ground in several ways. For example, the Cuisinart 10-Cup Thermal Classic™ Coffeemaker outperforms basic drip coffee machines that don’t come with a thermal carafe. Many competitors in the same price range lack features like the 60-second reset or Brew Pause™, which make this machine stand out.

However, brands like Breville and Ninja offer models with additional brewing options, such as single-serve compatibility or iced coffee settings. While those machines may provide more versatility, they often come at a higher price point, and the coffee doesn’t stay warm as long as it does in this thermal carafe.

Where this product truly excels is its durability and simplicity, making it a fantastic choice for those who want a reliable, no-fuss coffee maker.

Affordable Quality

Value-wise, this coffee maker strikes a balance between performance and price. It’s not the cheapest option, but it feels like you’re paying for quality and longevity rather than bells and whistles. Compared to pricier models with unnecessary features, this machine gets the basics right and adds thoughtful extras like the charcoal water filter and self-cleaning function. If you’re looking for an efficient and stylish coffee maker without breaking the bank, this is an excellent option.

In my experience, the Cuisinart 10-Cup Thermal Classic™ Coffeemaker has been a dependable addition to my kitchen. While it may not boast the most advanced features out there, its programmability, thermal carafe, and reliable performance make it a standout for coffee lovers who value simplicity and quality.

Additional information