Brentwood 4 Cup Coffee Maker TS-213W Review Compact Design and Reusable Filter

Description

Compact Design and Simple Operation

The Brentwood TS-213W 4-Cup Coffee Maker is a product that immediately caught my attention due to its compact size and ease of use. As someone who’s not a fan of overly complicated appliances, I appreciated how straightforward this device is. All you need to do is add coffee grounds, pour water into the reservoir, and press the power button. It’s that simple. The built-in water level window is a fantastic addition, ensuring I don’t overfill the reservoir. Measuring only 8″ x 7″ x 10″, it fits snugly on my crowded kitchen counter without taking up excessive space.

One thing I noticed while using it is how lightweight it feels at just 2.5 pounds. It’s easy to move around, whether I need it on my kitchen counter or tucked away in a cabinet. The white finish gives it a clean and minimalistic look, blending seamlessly with my other kitchen appliances.

Reusable Filter Basket: A Sustainable Choice

The reusable mesh filter basket included with this coffee maker is a game-changer. I’ve been trying to cut down on waste, and this feature has allowed me to ditch disposable coffee filters entirely. Not only does it save money in the long run, but it’s also a more eco-friendly option. Cleaning the filter is a breeze as it’s removable, and I simply rinse it under running water.

I also appreciate the reusable scooper provided with the coffee maker. It has markings that let me choose the right amount of coffee grounds depending on how strong I want my brew.

Performance and Brewing Quality

When it comes to performance, this coffee maker does its job well for such a compact machine. It brews four cups of coffee efficiently, which is perfect for a small household or for someone like me who occasionally entertains a couple of guests. The warming plate keeps the coffee hot for a decent amount of time, which is a thoughtful feature if you’re someone who likes sipping slowly.

However, I did notice that the brewing time isn’t the fastest compared to larger, high-end coffee machines. But given its size and price, this didn’t bother me much. It’s ideal for those who value simplicity and don’t mind waiting a few extra minutes for their coffee.

Key Benefits

• Compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space.
• Reusable filter basket reduces waste and cuts down on the ongoing cost of filters.
• User-friendly operation with just one button to brew coffee.
• Clear water level window eliminates guesswork when filling the reservoir.

Shortcomings

• The brewing process is not as quick as some larger, high-performance models.
• The manual operation may feel limiting for users accustomed to programmable coffee makers.
• The 4-cup capacity might not be sufficient for larger households or coffee enthusiasts.

Product Alternatives

While the Brentwood TS-213W is great for its simplicity and compact design, I’ve also tried a few other coffee makers in this category. For instance, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker offers a similar compact design but comes with an auto-pause feature that lets you grab a cup mid-brew. However, it lacks the reusable filter, which is a major downside for environmentally conscious users like me.

On the other hand, the Keurig K-Mini provides a single-serve brewing experience and is even more compact. But it requires pods, which can add up in cost and create more waste over time. The Brentwood coffee maker, with its reusable filter, feels like a better long-term investment in this regard.

Value for Money

This coffee maker offers great value for its price. It’s not packed with fancy features, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a simple, reliable coffee brewing experience. For someone on a budget or seeking a secondary coffee maker for a smaller space, it’s a smart choice. While it may not compete with high-end machines in terms of speed or advanced settings, the cost-effectiveness and sustainable design make it a strong contender in its category.

Ultimately, the Brentwood TS-213W 4-Cup Coffee Maker is ideal for anyone who values simplicity, compactness, and eco-friendly choices. It’s a no-fuss machine that does its job effectively, though it’s not without its minor limitations. If these align with your needs, it’s definitely worth considering.

Additional information