Is It Worth the Investment?
Coffee enthusiasts know that the perfect cup starts with the right equipment.
If you’ve been exploring high-end coffee makers, you’ve likely encountered the Moccomaster – a premium coffee maker that’s gained a devoted following among coffee connoisseurs.
But is it worth the investment?
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Moccomaster, from its design and features to performance and value, helping you decide if this could be your next kitchen essential.
Product Overview: What is the Moccomaster?
The Moccomaster is a premium drip coffee maker handcrafted in the Netherlands by Technivorm.
Unlike mass-produced coffee makers, each Moccomaster is individually assembled and tested before leaving the factory.
The brand has built its reputation on exceptional build quality, precise brewing temperature, and consistent performance.
What sets the Moccomaster apart is its copper heating element, which quickly brings water to the ideal brewing temperature (between 196°F and 205°F) – a critical factor for proper coffee extraction.
The KBGV Select model we’re reviewing today features a glass carafe with an automatic drip-stop brew basket that halts coffee flow when you remove the carafe.
The Moccomaster brews a full 40-ounce carafe (approximately 10 cups) in just 4-6 minutes.
After brewing, coffee is kept at the perfect temperature on a unique hot plate with independent heating elements.
This ensures your coffee stays at the ideal temperature without burning, regardless of how much you’ve brewed.
Key Features of the Moccomaster
Design and Construction
The Moccomaster features a distinctive, somewhat retro design that makes it stand out from other coffee makers. Available in over 20 colors, it can complement virtually any kitchen aesthetic.
The machine has a durable metal housing and uses high-quality, BPA-free plastics for components that come in contact with water or coffee.
Brewing Technology
At the heart of the Moccomaster is its copper heating element, which quickly heats water to the optimal brewing temperature.
The 9-hole outlet arm pulses water over the coffee grounds, ensuring even saturation and extraction.
This pulsing action mimics the pour-over technique, contributing to the exceptional flavor of the coffee.
Temperature Control
The Moccomaster KBGV Select model features a selector switch that adjusts the hot plate temperature between 175°F and 185°F.
The lower setting is ideal for a half carafe, while the higher setting maintains the perfect temperature for a full carafe.
This precision temperature control prevents coffee from burning while keeping it hot for up to 100 minutes before automatically shutting off.
Brew Basket Options
The automatic drip-stop brew basket on the KBGV Select model stops the flow of coffee when you remove the carafe, preventing spills and messes.
This feature allows you to pour a cup mid-brew without coffee dripping onto the hot plate.
The brew basket uses standard #4 paper filters and is designed for optimal extraction.
Brewing Capacity
The Moccomaster KBGV Select can brew between 2 and 10 cups of coffee.
What makes this model special is its ability to brew both half and full carafes to the Specialty Coffee Association’s Golden Cup Standard.
This means you’ll get the perfect cup whether you’re brewing for yourself or a group.
Warranty and Support
Every Moccomaster comes with an industry-leading 5-year warranty.
The modular design means parts can be replaced rather than discarding the entire machine, making it a sustainable choice.
Technivorm provides excellent customer support and replacement parts are readily available.
Benefits: Why Choose a Moccomaster?
Superior Coffee Quality
The Moccomaster consistently produces coffee that rivals what you’d get from manual pour-over methods.
The precise temperature control and even extraction result in a clean, flavorful cup without bitterness or burnt taste.
Many users report tasting notes in their coffee that they never noticed with other brewing methods.
Durability and Longevity
Unlike disposable appliances that need replacement every few years, the Moccomaster is built to last decades with proper care.
The high-quality materials and modular design mean parts can be replaced if needed. Many users report their Moccomaster lasting 10+ years with regular use.
Consistency and Reliability
The Moccomaster delivers the same excellent results cup after cup, day after day.
The precision engineering ensures that brewing variables stay consistent, so you can count on great coffee every time.
This reliability is especially valuable for those who consider their morning coffee an essential ritual.
Experience Premium Coffee Every Morning
Ready to upgrade your daily coffee experience?
The Moccomaster delivers barista-quality coffee with the convenience of a drip machine.
Pros and Cons of the Moccomaster
Pros
- Exceptional coffee quality with clean, rich flavor
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Fast brewing (4-6 minutes for a full carafe)
- Durable construction with 5-year warranty
- Modular design allows for repairs rather than replacement
- Certified by the Specialty Coffee Association
- Available in 20+ colors to match any kitchen
- Simple, intuitive operation without complicated settings
Cons
- Premium price point ($300+) may be prohibitive for some
- Lacks programmable features like auto-start timers
- Water reservoir is not removable for filling/cleaning
- Glass carafe gets very hot to the touch
- Some plastic components may feel less premium than the price suggests
- Larger footprint than some compact coffee makers
Customer Feedback: What Users Are Saying
The Moccomaster has garnered over 4,000 reviews on Amazon with an impressive 4.3 out of 5-star average rating.
Analyzing these reviews reveals consistent themes in what customers love and areas where they see room for improvement.
What Customers Love
- Coffee Taste: 88% of reviewers specifically praise the flavor of coffee brewed with the Moccomaster, noting reduced bitterness and enhanced flavor notes.
- Brewing Speed: Many users appreciate how quickly it brews, with a half pot taking just 3 minutes.
- Temperature: Reviewers consistently mention that the coffee stays hot without burning, even after sitting on the warming plate for an hour.
- Simplicity: The straightforward operation without complicated settings is frequently cited as a positive.
“This machine is truly worth every penny. I know it’s pricey but if you’re a coffee lover I promise this beats any cup you’ll get at Starbucks!”
Common Criticisms
- Price Concerns: The most common criticism relates to the premium price, with some questioning if the improvement in coffee quality justifies the cost.
- Plastic Components: Some users express disappointment with the plastic parts, expecting all-metal construction at this price point.
- Basic Features: A few reviewers note the lack of programmable features like auto-start timers that are common in less expensive models.
- Carafe Design: Some mention that the glass carafe gets very hot and the spout design can sometimes lead to dripping.
“It’s simple to use as well. It’s expensive, but we went through several $100-$150 range coffee pots over the years and finally decided to invest in quality.”
Price and Value: Is the Moccomaster Worth It?
With a retail price of around $359 (though often available for less during sales), the Moccomaster represents a significant investment compared to standard drip coffee makers.
Let’s examine how it compares to alternatives and whether the premium price is justified.
Price Comparison with Similar Products
| Coffee Maker | Approximate Price | Key Features | Warranty |
| Moccomaster KBGV Select | $359 | Copper heating element, precise temperature control, SCA certified, handmade | 5 years |
| Breville Precision Brewer | $330 | Programmable, multiple brew modes, PID temperature control | 2 years |
| OXO Brew 9-Cup | $230 | Programmable, temperature controlled, SCA certified | 2 years |
| Bonavita Connoisseur | $190 | One-touch brewing, pre-infusion mode, SCA certified | 2 years |
Long-Term Value Considerations
Initial Investment vs. Longevity
While the upfront cost of the Moccomaster is higher than many alternatives, its durability and repairability offer excellent long-term value.
Many users report their machines lasting 10+ years, whereas less expensive coffee makers often need replacement every 2-3 years.
When amortized over its lifespan, the Moccomaster may actually be more economical than repeatedly replacing cheaper models.
Coffee Shop Savings
For those who regularly purchase coffee from cafés, the Moccomaster can offer significant savings.
At $5 per coffee shop visit, the machine pays for itself after about 70 uses.
Many users report that the quality of coffee from their Moccomaster rivals or exceeds what they get at specialty coffee shops, making it easier to enjoy premium coffee at home.
Value Verdict: The Moccomaster represents excellent value for serious coffee enthusiasts who appreciate quality and durability.
For casual coffee drinkers who are less discerning about flavor nuances, the premium price may be harder to justify.
Consider your coffee consumption habits and how much you value the perfect cup when making your decision.
Ease of Use: The Moccomaster Experience
One of the Moccomaster’s strengths is its straightforward operation.
Unlike some high-end coffee makers with complex digital interfaces, the Moccomaster takes a minimalist approach that focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well: brewing great coffee.
Daily Operation
Using the Moccomaster is refreshingly simple:
- Fill the water reservoir to your desired level (marked in 2-cup increments)
- Insert a #4 paper filter in the brew basket
- Add ground coffee (the included scoop helps with measurements)
- Turn on the machine with the simple power switch
- Wait 4-6 minutes for brewing to complete
The selector switch at the base allows you to choose between half and full carafe settings, which adjusts the hot plate temperature accordingly.
The automatic shut-off after 100 minutes provides peace of mind if you forget to turn it off.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping the Moccomaster clean is straightforward:
- Daily: Rinse the carafe and brew basket after use
- Weekly: Wash removable parts with mild soap and water
- Monthly: Wipe down the exterior and hot plate
- Every 3 months: Descale with white vinegar or a commercial descaling solution
The glass carafe is dishwasher safe, though hand washing is recommended to prolong its life.
The non-removable water reservoir means you’ll need to bring water to the machine rather than taking the reservoir to the sink.
Learning Curve and Optimization
While the Moccomaster is simple to operate, getting the absolute best results may require some experimentation with:
Grind Size
The Moccomaster works best with a medium grind, similar to what you’d use for standard drip coffee.
Too fine a grind can lead to over-extraction and bitterness, while too coarse a grind may result in weak coffee.
Coffee-to-Water Ratio
The manufacturer recommends 55-65 grams of coffee for a full 10-cup carafe.
Adjusting this ratio to your taste preferences may take a few attempts, but the consistent brewing process makes it easy to find your perfect balance.
Water Quality
As with any coffee maker, using filtered water can significantly improve the taste of your coffee and reduce the frequency of descaling.
The Moccomaster doesn’t have a built-in water filter, so this is an extra step to consider.
Pro Tip: Pre-wetting the paper filter with warm water before adding coffee grounds can help eliminate any paper taste and pre-heat the brew basket for more consistent extraction.
Conclusion: Is the Moccomaster Right for You?
After thoroughly examining the Moccomaster KBGV Select, it’s clear that this is a premium coffee maker that delivers exceptional results.
Its precise temperature control, quality construction, and consistent performance produce coffee that rivals what you’d get from manual pour-over methods, but with the convenience of an automatic machine.
Who Should Consider the Moccomaster?
Perfect For:
- Coffee enthusiasts who appreciate nuanced flavors
- Those willing to invest in quality and durability
- People who value simplicity and reliability
- Households where coffee is an important daily ritual
- Those looking to reduce coffee shop spending with a comparable home experience
Perhaps Not For:
- Casual coffee drinkers who won’t notice flavor differences
- Those on a tight budget
- People who prioritize programmable features like auto-start
- Households with limited counter space
- Those who prefer single-serve convenience
The Moccomaster represents a significant investment, but its exceptional performance, durability, and 5-year warranty make it a worthwhile consideration for anyone serious about their coffee.
Think of it as a long-term investment in your daily coffee experience rather than just another appliance purchase.
If you value quality coffee and appreciate well-crafted products that are built to last, the Moccomaster is worth exploring.
Its combination of precise brewing technology, simple operation, and outstanding results has earned it a devoted following among coffee enthusiasts for good reason.
Ready to Elevate Your Coffee Experience?
The Moccomaster KBGV Select offers barista-quality coffee with the convenience of a home machine.
With its 5-year warranty and reputation for durability, it’s an investment in years of perfect coffee.
