The launch of the Sage Luxe Brewer Thermal earlier this year has stirred excitement among coffee enthusiasts and technology aficionados alike. This advanced drip coffee maker is an upgraded version of the original Luxe Brewer, featuring an insulated carafe designed to keep coffee hot for up to four hours. Early tests suggest it may secure a spot in TechRadar‘s list of the best coffee makers available.
The design of the Luxe Brewer Thermal reflects a keen understanding of user preferences. With a base measuring 14.7 x 7 inches (approximately 37.24 x 17.7 cm), it boasts a compact footprint, making it suitable for various kitchen spaces. Its sleek lines and silver finish not only enhance its visual appeal but also suggest a blend of functionality and style.
A standout feature of this coffee maker is its removable water tank. This design choice simplifies both the filling and cleaning processes, a common frustration with many drip machines. The tank’s wide opening allows for easy filling from a tap. Additionally, it includes a water filter with a counter to indicate when it needs replacing, further enhancing user convenience.
The tank does have a small handle that requires two hands to manage when full. While this could pose a minor inconvenience, the overall design seems well thought out, given the larger, thicker handles provided for the basket and pitcher on the machine’s right side.
Brewing Experience and Features
The Luxe Brewer Thermal offers options for both hot and cold brewing. Initial tests focusing on its hot brewing capabilities yielded impressive results. The user manual includes a helpful table that outlines the optimal weight of coffee and water quantity based on the number of cups desired, with measurements provided in both grams and scoops. For those without an electronic scale, the included long-handled scoop addresses this need effectively.
As a user who tests coffee machines regularly, I was eager to explore the delayed start function, which allows for freshly brewed coffee to greet you in the morning. Setting the timer is straightforward; simply tap the button, adjust the dial to the desired start time, and press to confirm. The set time appears on the display, making it easy to program before heading to bed.
When the machine began its brewing cycle at 07:00, I noticed no sounds indicating operation. Upon entering the kitchen half an hour later, I was surprised to find the carafe cool to the touch, which was a testament to its excellent insulation. Inside, the carafe was full of piping hot coffee, ready for enjoyment.
So far, the Luxe Brewer Thermal seems to outperform competitors like the Fellow Aiden Precision Coffee Maker, which tends to allow its jug to heat up on the outside, leading to lukewarm beverages. The insulation of the Luxe Brewer Thermal appears to be more effective, preserving the temperature of the coffee for longer periods.
Room for Improvement
While the overall experience has been positive, one drawback is the instruction manual. It leans heavily on Ikea-style diagrams, which can be less intuitive for some users. Fortunately, the more comprehensive user guide available on the Sage website offers a detailed overview of the machine’s features, making it easier to navigate its capabilities.
With further testing planned, I am eager to evaluate the remaining features of the Luxe Brewer Thermal. Its potential to secure a place among the top drip coffee makers remains to be seen, but initial impressions are promising. As I continue my assessment, I will provide updates on its performance and overall value in the competitive coffee maker market.
