Hamilton Beach 48463 BrewStation Summit 12-cup Coffeemaker

For those who like a coffeemaker that is stylish and ultramodern, the BrewStation Summit 12-cup Coffeemaker (48463) makes a good choice.

Unlike traditional coffee makers, this model does not come with a carafe and, therefore, does away with pouring or the risk of spills. This model also comes with several brewing options: bold, iced, regular, and single batch options.

Key features

- It comes with a one-hand dispensing feature--no need for a carafe, no pouring, and no spills.
- It has versatile brewing options.
- It has an adjustable auto shut-off feature, which is customizable from 0 to 4 hours.
- It has a programmable clock and timer.
- It has no hot plate to scorch coffee flavor.
- The insulated tank keeps the flavors inside.
- It uses a removable water tank.
- It can brew up to 12 cups at a time
- It comes with a cleaning reminder feature.

Advantages

There are a number of advantages to using the BrewStation Summit 12-cup Coffeemaker, making it a better option than other conventional coffee makers. With no carafes, there is no risk of spills because dispensing the coffee only requires you to press on the bottom of the tank to get freshly brewed coffee flowing.

You also do not face the risk of breaking glass carafes when you are not using one. When it comes to keeping the flavors in every cup, the machine sports an insulated tank and a keep warm mode that gives you warm, flavorful coffee each time you want one.

Most customers like this feature because it keeps warm and fresh coffee available for up to four hours, perfect for keeping a good pot of coffee going at the office.

Disadvantages

When it comes to disadvantages, this model also has a few. One of the most common complaints is that this model has the spout designed so close to the release bar, which makes dispensing messier compared to other coffee maker and models.

Some users also have to tap the top cover to dislodge condensed liquid from the top. If not, the liquid drips down the back of the coffee maker after you open the machine. Another disadvantage cited by consumers is that cleaning the filters can be pretty tedious.

You need to remove several components like the filter, followed by the filter holder, followed by the top assembly then by the bottom pour reservoir--quite a lot for just replacing the filter.

The model also comes with a short electric cord, which gives few options on where you can place the machine. Making the coffee requires several steps, involving pulling out two detachable units, one for the water and one for the coffee and filter.

Pros
- no burnt coffee taste even if the coffee sits all day
- intuitive controls, simple buttons
- bright display that can double as a night light
- attractive and stylish design
- can easily fill taller travel mugs
- energy-efficient
- coffee remains hot and fresh for up to four hours
- also makes good iced coffee

Cons
- too many parts that need to be assembled and disassembled to make coffee
- disposal of the filter can be messy
- built-up moisture inside the tank causes fluid to spill down the back of the machine
- thick mugs and thermoses are difficult to fill using the dispenser (spout is located so close to the release bar)
- poor finish takes away from the attractive appearance
- power cord is too short