(checked 2026-10-10)The listing pools the thermal-carafe and glass-carafe versions (about 4,800 ratings).
Experts like that it brews either a full pot or one mug with a single button. But the water tank isn't removable, Serious Eats found its four-hole showerhead can make coffee bitter, and owners often say the carafe doesn't keep coffee hot.
Top complaints
- Carafe doesn't keep coffee hot
Temperature retention is a mixed aspect on Amazon (552 mentions). Low-rated reviews on Walmart (syndicated from oxo.com) say the second cup needs microwaving after 30 minutes. Tom's Guide measured 175°F right after brewing and 165°F after 20 minutes.
- Fixed tank, no timer, special filters
Tom's Guide's cons are that the water tank isn't removable, it isn't programmable, and single cups need an uncommon filter size (Kalita Wave 185). Wirecutter also notes it has no auto-brew function.
Source: Tom's Guide review, Wirecutter - Leaks and overflows
Leakage is a negative aspect on Amazon (336 mentions). Lowest-rated Walmart reviews describe overflow about every third pot, water on the counter, and a unit that died after three months.
What owners love
- Pot or single mug
Serious Eats calls it outstanding at both a big batch and a single cup. Wirecutter says mug brews are as good as pour-over, and a full pot took just under six minutes.
Source: Serious Eats, Wirecutter - Very simple and compact
Tom's Guide found it extremely easy to use, with just two buttons, and compact enough for small kitchens.
Source: Tom's Guide review - Good coffee, easy carafe cleaning
Tom's Guide found every cup rich and flavorful. Coffee quality and ease of cleaning are positive aspects on Amazon.
- You want auto-brew (it isn't programmable)
- You want to fill the tank at the sink
- You keep coffee in the carafe for hours
- Switching between a single mug and a pot without pods
- Small kitchens (13.5 inches tall)
- People who want almost no settings
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Tom's Guide: Recommended, and the best budget drip maker in its guide. Its biggest flaw is the non-removable water tank; it also isn't programmable.
- Serious Eats: Best small-batch drip maker, but the four-hole showerhead caused channeling and coffee that was sometimes bitter and acidic.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Worth considering for pot-or-mug brewing; it lacks the 9-Cup's auto-brew.