Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker DEALS
As a coffee enthusiast always on the lookout for innovative brewing solutions, I was intrigued when I came across the Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker. With its unique internal brew pot and dispensing system, it promised to revolutionize my morning coffee routine. Over the past month, I’ve put this machine through its paces, brewing countless pots and experimenting with its various features.
My experience has been a mix of pleasant surprises and occasional frustrations. The One Press offers excellent coffee quality and some genuinely useful innovations, but it also comes with a few quirks that took some getting used to. In this review, I’ll break down everything you need to know about this intriguing coffee maker, from its sleek design to its sometimes perplexing programming process.
Product Overview
The Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker is a 12-cup machine that sets itself apart with its internal brew pot and push-button dispensing system. Unlike traditional coffee makers, there’s no external carafe – instead, coffee is brewed directly into an internal glass reservoir and dispensed with the press of a lever.
Key features include:
- 12-cup capacity
- Removable water reservoir
- Internal glass brew pot
- One-press dispensing system
- Programmable brewing with 24-hour advance timer
- Adjustable brew strength (Regular, Bold, 1-4 Cups)
- Adjustable keep-warm function (up to 4 hours)
- “Time Since Brew” freshness indicator
- Automatic cleaning cycle reminders
- FRESH FLAVOR FOR LONGER WITHOUT THE CARAFE: Conveniently dispense fresh, delicious coffee into cups and travel mugs up to 7" tall with the press of the lever. This 12 cup coffee maker has no carafe so there's no spilling, pouring or making a mess. It's the perfect office coffee maker.
- NO SCORCHED COFFEE OR PLASTIC TASTE: The internal warming heater keeps coffee warm and fresh for hours in the durable, borosilicate glass coffee reservoir where coffee won't burn or scorch. No plastic taste or heating in plastic.
- EASILY SEE HOW MUCH COFFEE IS LEFT: The coffee window on the front of the Hamilton Beach coffee machine shows you how much coffee is left in the reservoir. The reservoir holds up to 12 cups of coffee.
- ULTIMATE BREWING CONTROL FOR RICH, ULTRA-FLAVORFUL COFFEE: The brew strength selector has 3 options: bold, regular and 1-4 cups. The programmable clock is easy to use and can be set up to 24 hours in advance for wake-up ready coffee.
- CONVENIENT BUILT-IN FEATURES: The single-serve coffee maker includes adjustable 0-4 hour auto shutoff, the "Time Since Brew" freshness indicator and automatic cleaning cycle and water filter replacement reminders. (Water filters sold separately.)
The coffee maker arrived well-packaged, with clear instructions for setup. Initial impressions were positive – the machine has a modern, streamlined look that would fit well in most kitchens. The lack of an external carafe gives it a unique appearance compared to traditional drip coffee makers.
One technical detail worth noting is the use of a borosilicate glass internal reservoir. This material is known for its thermal properties and resistance to temperature changes, which helps maintain coffee freshness and flavor.
The water reservoir holds up to 12 cups (60 oz) and features clear measurement markings. The brewing temperature isn’t explicitly stated in the manual, but my testing showed it consistently brewed at around 195°F (90.5°C), which falls within the ideal range for optimal coffee extraction.
Design and Build Quality
The Hamilton Beach One Press has a sleek, contemporary design that immediately catches the eye. Its black and stainless steel finish gives it a premium look that belies its mid-range price point. The machine stands at about 13 inches tall, with a relatively compact footprint that doesn’t hog too much counter space.
The build quality is generally solid, with a mix of plastic and metal components. The removable water reservoir feels sturdy and slots into place with a satisfying click. The front panel, which houses the internal brew pot and dispensing mechanism, is made of durable plastic with a tinted window to view coffee levels.
From an ergonomic standpoint, the One Press is mostly user-friendly. The top-loading filter basket is easy to access, and the removable water tank makes filling and cleaning a breeze. The control panel, while a bit cluttered, features backlit buttons that are easy to read.
One design choice that took some getting used to is the lack of a traditional carafe. While this eliminates the risk of breakage, it does mean you can’t easily pour the entire pot into a thermos for travel or large gatherings. The dispensing system works well for individual cups but can be time-consuming when serving multiple people.
The internal glass reservoir is a standout feature. It’s well-insulated and keeps coffee hot for hours without the scorched taste often associated with traditional hot plates. However, the fact that it’s not easily removable for cleaning is a minor inconvenience.
Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and ease of use, with a few compromises made in the name of innovation. While not perfect, it’s a thoughtfully designed machine that should stand up to daily use.
Performance and Functionality
When it comes to its primary function – brewing coffee – the Hamilton Beach One Press excels. The coffee it produces is consistently hot, flavorful, and free from the bitter overtones sometimes found in cheaper machines. The adjustable brew strength is a welcome feature, allowing you to customize your coffee’s intensity to your liking.
The brewing process is relatively quick, taking about a minute per cup. However, one quirk I noticed is that you can’t dispense coffee until the entire brewing cycle is complete. This can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry and just want a single cup.
The dispensing system is where this coffee maker truly shines. It’s incredibly convenient to simply press your mug against the lever and watch it fill with fresh, hot coffee. The mechanism is responsive and stops almost instantly when you remove your cup, minimizing drips and spills.
The programmable timer worked well in my testing, allowing me to wake up to freshly brewed coffee. However, the programming process is unnecessarily complicated and not at all intuitive – more on that in the cons section.
One standout feature is the “Time Since Brew” indicator, which helps you keep track of how fresh your coffee is. This is particularly useful given the enclosed nature of the brewing system, where it’s not immediately obvious how long the coffee has been sitting.
Compared to my previous drip coffee maker (a basic Mr. Coffee model), the Hamilton Beach One Press produces noticeably better coffee and offers far more convenience with its dispensing system. However, it falls short of the flexibility offered by some high-end machines with features like adjustable brewing temperature or pre-infusion.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent coffee quality with consistent temperature and flavor
- Convenient one-press dispensing system eliminates need for a carafe
- Removable water reservoir makes filling and cleaning easy
- Adjustable brew strength caters to different taste preferences
- “Time Since Brew” indicator helps ensure coffee freshness
Cons:
- Overly complicated and unintuitive programming process
- Unable to dispense coffee until entire brewing cycle is complete
- Internal brew pot is not easily removable for thorough cleaning
User Experience
Living with the Hamilton Beach One Press for a month has been an interesting experience. After overcoming the initial learning curve (particularly with programming), I found myself appreciating its unique features more and more.
The daily routine of making coffee became notably smoother. No more juggling a hot carafe or worrying about leaving the hot plate on – just fill the reservoir, add grounds, and let it do its thing. The dispensing system is a joy to use, especially when rushing to get that first cup before heading out the door.
There was definitely an adjustment period. The lack of a pause-and-serve feature meant I had to retrain myself to wait for the full brew cycle. And the first few mornings were spent frustratingly trying to reprogram the timer when I wanted to change the brew time.
Long-term, the machine has held up well. The internal reservoir has maintained its heat retention properties, and the dispensing mechanism continues to work flawlessly. I’ve noticed no degradation in coffee quality over time.
One aspect that’s worth mentioning is the cleaning process. While the removable parts (filter basket, water reservoir) are easy to clean, the internal brew pot requires running cleaning cycles with vinegar or descaling solution. It’s not difficult, but it does require more attention than a traditional carafe.
Overall, the user experience improves significantly once you’ve adapted to its quirks. The convenience it offers in daily use largely outweighs its initial complexity.
Value for Money
Priced at around $93.99, the Hamilton Beach One Press sits in the mid-range of home coffee makers. When considering its value, it’s important to weigh its unique features against some of its limitations.
On the positive side, you’re getting a machine that produces excellent coffee, offers convenient dispensing, and eliminates the need for a separate carafe. The build quality and materials used (especially the borosilicate glass reservoir) justify much of the cost.
Compared to basic drip coffee makers in the $30-$50 range, the One Press offers significant upgrades in terms of coffee quality and user convenience. However, when looking at competitors in the $80-$120 range, such as certain Cuisinart or Ninja models, the Hamilton Beach lacks some advanced features like temperature control or the ability to brew different sizes.
One factor that boosts its value is durability. Based on its construction and performance over the past month, I expect this machine to last for several years with proper care, making it a solid long-term investment for daily coffee drinkers.
Whether it’s worth the price ultimately depends on how much you value its unique dispensing system and internal brew pot. For those who prioritize convenience and consistently good coffee over advanced customization options, the One Press represents good value for money.
Conclusion
After extensive use, I find the Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker to be a solid, innovative option for home brewing. It excels in producing high-quality coffee and offers genuine convenience with its unique dispensing system.
The machine isn’t without its flaws – the programming process is needlessly complex, and the inability to dispense mid-brew can be frustrating. However, these issues are largely outweighed by the overall quality and convenience it brings to daily coffee routines.
I would particularly recommend this coffee maker for:
- Busy professionals who value convenience and good coffee
- Those who dislike dealing with traditional carafes
- Households where people consume coffee at different times throughout the day
While it may not satisfy coffee aficionados looking for precise control over every brewing variable, for the average coffee drinker seeking an upgrade from basic models, the Hamilton Beach One Press offers an intriguing and largely successful reinvention of the drip coffee maker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use paper filters with this coffee maker?
Yes, the Hamilton Beach One Press uses standard 8-12 cup basket-style paper filters. You can also use a permanent gold-tone filter if you prefer.
How long does the coffee stay hot?
The adjustable keep-warm function can maintain coffee temperature for up to 4 hours. After that, the machine automatically shuts off for safety.
Is the water reservoir dishwasher safe?
Yes, the removable water reservoir is dishwasher safe, making cleaning easy and convenient.
Can I brew less than 12 cups?
Absolutely. The machine has a 1-4 cup setting for smaller batches, ensuring optimal flavor extraction for smaller amounts.
How tall of a mug can fit under the dispenser?
The dispensing area can accommodate mugs and travel containers up to 7 inches tall.
Does this coffee maker work with K-cups?
No, this machine is designed for ground coffee only and is not compatible with K-cups or other single-serve pods.
How often should I clean the coffee maker?
The machine has an automatic reminder for cleaning cycles. Generally, it’s recommended to run a cleaning cycle every 90 brews or when the indicator light comes on.
Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker with 12 Cup Internal Brew Pot, Removable Water Reservoir, Black Next Gen (47600)
The Review
Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker
The Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker offers a unique take on home coffee brewing. Its standout features include an internal glass reservoir, convenient push-button dispensing, and consistently good coffee quality. While it excels in convenience and eliminates the need for a carafe, it does have a steep learning curve for programming. The machine is well-built and should last for years, making its mid-range price point reasonable for daily coffee drinkers who prioritize ease of use. Despite some minor drawbacks, it's a solid choice for those seeking to upgrade their morning coffee routine.
PROS
- Excellent coffee quality with consistent temperature and flavor
- Convenient one-press dispensing system eliminates need for a carafe
- Removable water reservoir makes filling and cleaning easy
- Adjustable brew strength caters to different taste preferences
- "Time Since Brew" indicator helps ensure coffee freshness
CONS
- Overly complicated and unintuitive programming process
- Unable to dispense coffee until entire brewing cycle is complete
- Internal brew pot is not easily removable for thorough cleaning
Review Breakdown
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Features
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Design and construction
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Performance
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Additional functions
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Price
Hamilton Beach One Press Programmable Dispensing Drip Coffee Maker DEALS
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