An expensive coffee maker is worth the price. Period. By expensive, we mean one that is SCA certified and costs between $200 to $300. If you want full flavor, amazing nuanced coffee notes, and the optimal brew temp, step up your coffee game. Here are three reasons why.
According to the SCA, the optimal brew temperature is 203 °F, which is just below where water boils (110 °F). Most cheaper coffee makers barely get that hot, and over time burn out.
A larger brew head showers the ground coffee more evenly. This leads to better extraction which results in better flavor.
Bloom & Pulse. These expensive machines mimic the steps baristas take when making a pour over coffee. The bloom allows the CO2 in the coffee to degass, and the pulse brew adds layers of flavor.
Click on the image below to see the full list of SCA certified home coffee makers.