Smeg is a reputable company that is known for its unique designs and quality coffee makers, but are they good Smeg is renowned for its iconic retro designs and high-quality kitchen appliances, but does their drip coffee maker live up to the hype? Having used the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker (DCF02) and researched recent reviews, I’ve updated my evaluation to help you decide if this stylish brewer is worth the investment. While it offers superior build quality compared to budget brands like Braun, it comes with quirks that may affect your decision.
If you’ve been eyeing this machine but haven’t taken the plunge, read on for my updated experience and insights.
Appearance
The Smeg Coffee Maker’s retro aesthetic remains its standout feature. With smooth curves, chrome accents, and a polished finish, it’s a stunning addition to any kitchen. Available in nine colors—cream, mint green, light blue, black, red, pastel green, pink, stainless steel, and taupe—it blends vintage charm with modern flair. The all-metal body with a powder-coated enamel finish ensures durability, setting it apart from plastic-heavy competitors. However, some recent reviews note that the interior components, like the showerhead and carafe handle, use flimsy plastic, which slightly detracts from the premium feel.
Size
The Smeg’s rounded, retro design makes it larger than most drip coffee makers, measuring 13″D x 17″W x 11.25″H and weighing 7.5 pounds. Its wide footprint and 17-inch height may not fit under low cabinets, so measure your counter space beforehand. The dome-shaped lid, while stylish, prevents stacking items on top, and you’ll need to pull the machine out to fill the water tank or add coffee grounds. On the plus side, anti-slip feet provide stability, ideal for homes with kids or pets. If counter space is tight, this brewer’s size could be a drawback.
Taste
Taste depends heavily on your coffee beans—freshly roasted, high-quality grounds from a local roaster yield the best results. The Smeg delivers clean, smooth coffee without the plastic aftertaste common in cheaper machines, thanks to its metal construction. Recent reviews confirm it produces consistent, flavorful brews, especially on the “intense” aroma setting, which enhances boldness. However, it lacks advanced features like pre-blooming or customizable brew temperatures, so coffee enthusiasts seeking nuanced flavors may find it basic compared to SCA-certified brewers. I’ve noticed I can use slightly less coffee per pot while maintaining great taste, which is a cost-saving bonus.
Auto Shut-Off
The Smeg’s automatic shut-off feature now activates after 60 minutes (up from 20 minutes in the original model), keeping coffee warm without burning it. This addresses earlier complaints about lukewarm third cups. The warming plate maintains coffee quality, but if you drink slowly, you may need to brew smaller batches to ensure freshness. The machine’s loud beeps when powering on or off have been a point of contention, but the updated DCF02 model allows users to disable the sound, a significant improvement. You can also program the brewer to start automatically, so your coffee is ready when you wake up.
LED Display
The Smeg’s digital LED display is user-friendly, with a backlit screen that resists glare. It shows water level, water hardness, time, and settings for “keep warm” and “aroma intensity” (standard or intense). Notifications for descaling and water quality are helpful but can feel fussy, as the machine frequently prompts for maintenance. The interface is straightforward, making it accessible for casual users, though it lacks the sophistication of high-end barista machines.
Extras
The Smeg’s 1.4-liter carafe holds about 6–10 cups, depending on cup size, which may be small for large households. Frequent descaling remains an issue, with the machine’s sensitivity to water hardness requiring regular maintenance. The glass carafe is premium but not dishwasher-safe, which is a hassle for some. Filling the water tank is tricky due to the lid’s limited opening angle, often leading to spills unless you pour carefully. The reusable filter reduces waste, but paper filters are an option for those who prefer them.
Pros and Cons of the Smeg Coffee Maker
Pros:
- Stunning retro design in multiple colors
- Durable all-metal body
- Clean, smooth coffee with no plastic aftertaste
- 60-minute keep-warm function
- Programmable auto-start
- Anti-slip feet for stability
- User-friendly LED display
- Sound control in updated DCF02 model
Cons:
- Large footprint requires ample counter space
- Small carafe capacity (6–10 cups)
- Frequent descaling and water quality alerts
- Loud beeps (unless disabled in newer model)
- Glass carafe not dishwasher-safe
- Limited advanced brewing features
- Tricky water tank filling due to lid design
Final Thoughts
The Smeg Drip Coffee Maker (DCF02) is a stylish, reliable brewer that delivers good coffee with a retro flair. Updates like the extended keep-warm time and sound control address some earlier flaws, but issues like frequent descaling, a small carafe, and a large footprint persist. At around $199–$229, it’s pricier than competitors like the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker, which offers more capacity for less. While the Smeg excels in design and build quality, its coffee quality is standard, not exceptional, making it best suited for those who prioritize aesthetics over advanced functionality.
If you’re okay with minor maintenance and have the counter space, the Smeg is a worthwhile investment for its durability and charm. However, if you seek specialty coffee or maximum practicality, consider SCA-certified options like the Technivorm Moccamaster or Breville Precision Brewer. For me, the Smeg remains a beloved kitchen centerpiece, but its value depends on whether style is as important to you as substance.