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Welcome back to “Reviews inside tv,” where we dive into the best and worst products so you don’t have to! Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Smeg 50″ Retro Drip Coffee Maker with Extra Carafe in Cream. Smeg has built a reputation for stylish, vintage-inspired appliances, and this coffee maker certainly carries that signature 1950s aesthetic. But is it more than just a pretty face? Let’s break it down.
At first glance, this coffee maker is an absolute head-turner. The retro design stands out with its sleek, cream-colored body and classic curved lines. It’s clearly built to add a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen while maintaining modern functionality. The machine features a 10-cup glass carafe, perfect for larger gatherings or if you like to make a pot for yourself and store the rest for later. On the technical side, it comes with a water level indicator, a user-friendly control panel, and anti-slip feet to keep everything stable on your countertop. But, beyond aesthetics, does it deliver in terms of performance?
I spent a week testing this machine in real-world conditions, and here’s what stood out. First off, setting it up was a breeze. The control panel is intuitive, and I didn’t need to refer to the manual once. The coffee maker offers several brewing options: a 4-cup function for smaller servings or the full carafe for when you need more coffee. I tested both, and I have to say, the brew was consistently flavorful. The aroma intensity function is a nice touch, allowing you to adjust the strength of the coffee based on your preference. Plus, the “keep warm” function worked exactly as promised, maintaining the temperature for up to 60 minutes after brewing.
Now, let’s talk about some unique features. The automatic start mode is a game-changer. Setting it the night before means you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee—no effort required. The adjustable water hardness is a subtle yet smart feature, letting you tailor the taste of your coffee depending on your local water quality. But, I did notice a few things. The machine can get a bit noisy during brewing, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re looking for a super quiet coffee maker. And while the reusable filter is eco-friendly, I did find it a little trickier to clean than a standard paper filter.
Speaking of pros and cons, let’s break them down. On the plus side, the Smeg coffee maker excels in design—it’s stunning, and it delivers a consistently good brew. The customizable features like the aroma intensity and water hardness adjustments are fantastic for coffee enthusiasts who want more control. The 4-cup function is also perfect for smaller servings, adding versatility. However, there are a few cons to consider. The noise during brewing is definitely noticeable, and while the reusable filter is eco-friendly, it’s not the easiest to clean. The “keep warm” function, while useful, could be longer than 60 minutes for those who like their coffee to stay hot all day.
When it comes to value for money, this coffee maker is definitely on the higher end of the price spectrum. While the performance is solid, it’s the stylish design and unique features that really justify the price tag. If you’re mainly after a functional coffee maker without the bells and whistles, there are more affordable options on the market. But if you’re looking for something that combines aesthetics with high performance, this Smeg coffee maker makes a strong case.
In terms of comparisons, you’ll find similar drip coffee makers in this price range from brands like Breville and Cuisinart. However, they often lack the retro design and some of the customizable features that Smeg brings to the table. Breville, for instance, offers great performance, but it doesn’t quite match the retro charm of this model. Cuisinart’s offerings are often more utilitarian, so if style is a big factor for you, the Smeg is a standout.
Build quality is solid, with the machine feeling sturdy and well-made. The materials used in construction are durable, and the design holds up well over time. As for longevity, I can’t speak to how well it performs after several years of use, but based on my testing, it seems like it will last, provided it’s maintained properly.
I didn’t have to reach out to customer support during my testing, but Smeg has built a good reputation for responsive service. Many users report quick, helpful responses, which is always a positive sign when buying higher-end products.
If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew or the Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker might be worth considering. While they lack some of the unique features of the Smeg, they do offer reliable performance at a much lower price point.
To wrap it up, the Smeg 50″ Retro Drip Coffee Maker is a stylish, high-performance coffee machine that excels in design and offers some really thoughtful features like the customizable brew settings and automatic start mode. However, it’s not perfect—the noise during brewing and the reusable filter cleaning are minor drawbacks. If you’re after a coffee maker that’s not only functional but also a statement piece in your kitchen, this is an excellent choice. But, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a quieter brew, you might want to look elsewhere.
Thanks for watching! If you’ve enjoyed this review, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated with our latest content. The link to grab the Smeg Coffee Maker can be found in the comments box below. And if you already own this beauty, let us know your thoughts in the comments—does it make your mornings better, or is it more style than substance? Until next time, keep sipping, and remember—at “Reviews inside tv,” we bring you the best, one product at a time!
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