Black & Decker 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker

As someone who appreciates a good cup of coffee, I was eager to try out the Black & Decker 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker, model CM2035B-1. This coffeemaker promises a range of features designed to enhance your coffee-making experience, and I was curious to see how it would fare in a real-world setting.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stood out to me was the sleek, modern design. The stainless steel thermal carafe is not only visually appealing but also functional, as it's designed to keep coffee hot for extended periods. The carafe features a Perfect Pour spout, which genuinely minimizes spills — a small but much-appreciated detail. The overall build quality feels solid, and the materials used seem durable, which is reassuring for daily use.

User Interface and Controls

The digital controls are intuitive and user-friendly. The LCD display is clear and easy to read, even in low light. One feature I particularly appreciate is the programmable auto-brew function, which allows me to set the machine to start brewing at a specific time. This is incredibly convenient for those early mornings when I need a fresh pot of coffee waiting for me. The brew strength selector offers options for regular, strong, and bold coffee, catering to different taste preferences.

Performance and Coffee Quality

The performance of this coffeemaker is impressive in several respects. The Evenstream showerhead ensures even water distribution over the coffee grounds, which results in a more consistent and flavorful brew. I found that the coffee tastes rich and aromatic, and the thermal carafe does an excellent job of keeping it hot for hours. This is particularly useful if you like to enjoy your coffee slowly throughout the morning.

However, I did notice that the carafe doesn't keep the coffee as hot as some other thermal carafes I've used in the past. While it's sufficient for a few hours, it may not be ideal if you plan to keep coffee hot for more extended periods. That being said, the coffee remains warm enough to be enjoyable without the need for reheating.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

One of the standout features for me is the easy access water reservoir. Refilling it is straightforward, and the clear markings make it simple to measure the right amount of water. The machine also has a 1-4 cup setting, which is perfect for when you don't need a full pot.

Cleaning the coffeemaker is relatively hassle-free. The stainless steel carafe and removable filter basket are easy to clean, and the machine even has a clean function to help maintain it over time. Regular maintenance is essential for any coffeemaker, and this model makes it easy to keep things in good working order.

Reliability and Durability

While my experience with the CM2035B-1 has been mostly positive, I did encounter a minor issue with the hot plate failing to heat up on one occasion. This was frustrating but not a deal-breaker, as it only happened once and the thermal carafe mitigates the need for a hot plate to some extent. I also came across some reports of the coffeemaker ceasing to function after about a year of use. While this hasn't been my experience, it's something to be aware of.

Additional Features

The auto shutoff feature is a nice touch, providing peace of mind if you forget to turn off the machine. The fresh brew timer on the LCD display is another useful feature, letting you know how long the coffee has been sitting. These little details contribute to an overall positive user experience.

Final Thoughts

The Black & Decker 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker, model CM2035B-1, offers a lot of value for its price. It combines a sleek design with user-friendly features and produces a consistently good cup of coffee. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the carafe not keeping coffee hot for as long as some might like and the occasional reliability issue, the positives outweigh the negatives.

I would recommend this coffeemaker to anyone looking for an affordable, efficient, and stylish machine that can brew a great pot of coffee. Its ease of use, programmable features, and thermal carafe make it a solid choice for both casual coffee drinkers and enthusiasts alike. While it may not be perfect, it delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying coffee experience.