In our ongoing quest to discover the most efficient coffee makers, we have come across the Cuisinart DCC-3200. Priced just under a $100, we were curious to see how this machine compares to other, more expensive models.
If you’re considering a mid-range coffee maker, read on for our comprehensive review to help you make an informed decision.
Cuisinart DCC-3200 Key Features
The Cuisinart DCC-3200 boasts the following innovative features:
- Advanced heating technology: The DCC-3200 uses a water heating system that heats water to an optimal temperature, ensuring your coffee stays hot for longer without compromising its flavor.
- Brew strength control: Choose between regular or bold brewing strength to suit your preference.
- 24-hour programmable timer: Set the machine to start brewing at any time within a 24-hour period—perfect for those who want their coffee ready first thing in the morning.
- Coffee amount option: Brew anywhere from one cup to a full 14-cup pot with ease.
- Automatic shut-off: The coffee maker can be set to turn off immediately after brewing or up to four hours later.
- Temperature control: Choose between different hot plate temperature settings to keep your coffee at the desired temperature.
- Permanent gold-tone filter: Say goodbye to disposable paper filters with the reusable gold-tone coffee filter, a standard feature in premium coffee makers.
Specifications
- Capacity: This 14-cup programmable coffee maker has a total capacity of 70 ounces, as Cuisinart’s cups are 5 ounces each. This equates to almost nine 8-ounce servings.
- Materials: Constructed from stainless steel, plastic, and glass.
- Dimensions: 7.8 x 9 x 14 inches.
- Weight: 8.75 pounds.
- Cost: The MSRP is $99.95.
What’s Included with the Cuisinart DCC-3200?
- The coffee maker itself
- User manual
- Glass carafe
- Permanent gold-tone coffee filter
- Charcoal water filter
- A standard 12-month warranty (with the option to extend for an additional fee)
How Does It Work?
- Add your desired amount of coffee and water.
- Select your preferred brewing strength and press the corresponding button.
- Allow five to ten minutes for a full pot to brew.
Note: There is no pause feature for pouring coffee mid-brew. You have approximately 20 seconds between brew cycles to pour a cup.
Pros
- Includes water filters for improved coffee flavor and reduced descaling requirements
- User-friendly, even for beginners
- Brews delicious coffee
- Gold-tone filters are reusable and cost-effective
- Competitive price point
- Brews up to 14 cups at a time, compared to other models that typically brew 10 to 12 cups
Cons
- Generates steam during use; store in an open space
- Black covering on the hot plate may peel after six to eight weeks
- Coffee residue can get stuck in the carafe’s rim, necessitating handwashing
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Cuisinart Coffee Maker
- Follow the user manual’s instructions
- Clean the machine regularly, especially around the coffee filter rim
- Descale the machine as needed
- Use the water filter and replace it regularly
- Choose high-quality coffee
- Grind coffee just before brewing
- For a bolder flavor, use a coarser grind
Is the Cuisinart DCC-3200 Right for You?
The Cuisinart DCC-3200 is an excellent choice for those seeking a simple-to-use coffee maker. It’s user-friendly and perfect for beginners, as well as those who need to brew larger quantities of coffee.
When the Cuisinart DCC-3200 May Not Be the Best Fit
If you prioritize design and aesthetics, this coffee maker may be too basic for your taste. Additionally, the hot plate’s covering may peel over time, reducing the machine’s overall visual appeal.
Final Verdict
Considering its reasonable price, the Cuisinart DCC-3200 offers impressive features compared to other models in its price range. It delivers a delicious cup (or pot) of coffee quickly and with minimal effort. The 24-hour programmable timer allows you to have your coffee ready while you’re still snoozing. Overall, we believe this coffee maker is an excellent investment!
FAQs
How do you clean a Cuisinart DCC-3200?
Use warm, soapy water to clean the carafe and lid, or place them on the upper rack of a dishwasher. Avoid using harsh cleaners or immersing the base unit in water or liquids.
Do you need a paper filter for the Cuisinart coffee maker?
No, the Cuisinart Permanent Gold-Tone Filter eliminates the need for paper filters. However, some fine grounds may flow through the filter and appear as sediment in the carafe.
How long does Cuisinart’s self-clean take?
Add 16 ounces of vinegar to the machine and let it sit for 20 minutes. Turn the machine off and allow the hot vinegar to cool.
How do I clean my Cuisinart coffee maker without vinegar?
Baking soda is an affordable, non-toxic cleaning product with alkaline properties, making it an efficient alternative to vinegar.
What is the 1/4 button on Cuisinart?
The 1-4 cup setting is used for brewing small amounts of coffee. This setting double heats the water to ensure a piping hot result for smaller quantities.
How much coffee do I need for 14 cups?
You would need 116.2 grams or 22.4 tablespoons of coffee for 14 cups.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links. Remember to support us by purchasing through the Amazon/Walmart/Impact Radius links provided. Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
Editorial Staff
The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.
