Ninja DualBrew Pro Coffee Maker Review Is This the Best Combo Machine

Description

Design and Build Quality: Sleek, Functional, and Thoughtful

The Ninja DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System CFP301 stands out with its sleek design and compact frame. At 9.13 inches deep, 11.39 inches wide, and 15.54 inches tall, it fits snugly on my kitchen counter without feeling overwhelming. The black finish gives it a modern aesthetic, blending well into most kitchen decors. While testing, I appreciated the thoughtful placement of the multi-position water reservoir, which can be moved to the side or rear to optimize counter space. This small but significant detail ensures flexibility for any kitchen layout. The materials feel sturdy, and the components, like the fold-away frother and removable tank, are easy to handle and clean.

One thing that surprised me was how lightweight the machine is at just 9.69 pounds, making it easy to relocate if needed. However, the plastic components, while durable, might not feel as premium as some higher-end models. Still, the overall build quality of this drip coffee machine is impressive, and it feels like it’s built to last.

Performance and Versatility: A Coffee Lover’s Dream

Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a full-blown enthusiast, this machine caters to a wide range of preferences. It features 13 brewing sizes that include 5 grounds brew options (from a small cup to a full carafe) and 4 pod sizes (ranging from 6 to 12 ounces). I tested several of these options, and each delivered consistent results. The Thermal Flavor Extraction DUO technology ensures the coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature with even saturation, resulting in a robust and flavorful cup every time.

The four brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—add to its versatility. I especially loved the Specialty Brew, which creates a concentrated coffee perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. Using the built-in frother, I whipped up some silky foam with ease, and it worked great with both regular milk and almond milk. For my iced coffee experiments, the Over Ice setting came through by brewing coffee that doesn’t taste watered down.

Another standout feature is the independent hot water system, which eliminates cross-contamination between coffee and other beverages. Whether I needed hot water for tea, soup, or instant oatmeal, this function proved convenient, with two temperature settings—hot and boil.

Key Benefits

• Dual brewing capability: Compatible with both grounds and pods, offering incredible flexibility.
• Fast brewing times: Pods brew faster than many competitors, such as leading Keurig models.
• Built-in frother: Creates smooth foam for specialty drinks, enhancing the coffeehouse experience at home.
• Multi-position reservoir: Adjustable placement to fit various kitchen setups.
• Versatile brewing options: From classic hot coffee to iced beverages and concentrated specialty brews.

Areas for Improvement

As much as I enjoyed using this machine, there are a few less favorable aspects worth mentioning:

• Plastic construction: While durable, some components might not feel as premium as other high-end coffee makers.
• Water reservoir size: Though 60 ounces is sufficient for most, heavy coffee drinkers might find themselves refilling more often.
• Learning curve: With so many settings and options, it takes some time to get familiar with everything.

Competing Products

When stacked against competitors like the Keurig K-Elite or the Breville Barista Express, the Ninja DualBrew Pro holds its own with its dual brewing capabilities and multi-size options. The Keurig models excel in simplicity and speed but lack the versatility of brewing both grounds and pods. On the other hand, the Breville Barista Express, while excellent for espresso enthusiasts, is more expensive and less suited for casual coffee drinkers who might prefer pods.

One area where the Ninja shines is its built-in frother, which outperforms many competitors in its price range. However, if you’re looking for a device with a more premium feel, the Breville machines might be worth considering, albeit at a significantly higher cost.

Bang for the Buck

This coffee maker offers incredible value for money, especially considering its dual brewing functionality and the number of settings it provides. While it might not have the premium materials of some high-end machines, it delivers exceptional coffee quality and versatility at a much more accessible price point. For anyone who enjoys experimenting with different coffee styles or needs a machine that can handle both pods and grounds, this product is a worthwhile investment.

Additional information