The Cuisinart CBC-6800PC and DCC-3200 are two excellent coffee makers, but they cater to very different users. The CBC-6800PC is an all-in-one "grind and brew" machine with a built-in burr grinder and a thermal carafe, aimed at those who prioritize peak freshness. The DCC-3200 is a classic, high-capacity drip coffee maker with a glass carafe designed for reliable, straightforward brewing at a more accessible price point.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which Cuisinart coffee machine deserves a spot on your kitchen counter.
Cuisinart CBC-6800PC Grind & Brew Coffee Maker
The Cuisinart CBC-6800PC is designed for coffee purists who believe the best brew starts with freshly ground beans. Its standout feature is the integrated burr grinder that automatically grinds whole beans right before brewing, preserving maximum aroma and flavor. Paired with a double-walled thermal carafe, this machine delivers a hot, fresh pot of coffee without the risk of scorching on a warming plate, making it ideal for those who value quality above all else.
- What it is: A fully-automatic, programmable 12-cup coffee maker with a built-in ceramic burr grinder and thermal carafe.
- Key features: Integrated ceramic burr grinder with grind control, grind-off feature for pre-ground coffee, 12-cup thermal carafe, brew strength control (regular, bold, extra-bold), 24-hour programmability, brew pause function.
- Price: Typically around $250 - $300.
- Style: Sleek and modern with a brushed stainless steel finish and a clean digital display that matches contemporary kitchen decor.
- Materials/Construction: High-quality stainless steel housing, a durable double-walled thermal carafe, and a reliable ceramic burr grinder.
- Pros: Grinds fresh beans on demand for superior flavor. The thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without burning. Premium build quality and materials. Reusable gold-tone filter and charcoal water filter included.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than standard drip makers. The machine is larger and heavier, taking up more counter space. Cleaning the grinder adds an extra maintenance step.
The CBC-6800PC is for the coffee enthusiast who wants control over their grind and values the taste of bean-to-cup brewing in a convenient, all-in-one package.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/coffee_makers/
Cuisinart DCC-3200 PerfecTemp 14-Cup Coffee Maker
The Cuisinart DCC-3200 is a workhorse coffee maker that has become a best-seller due to its reliability, large capacity, and user-friendly design. It doesn't have a built-in grinder, but it excels at brewing a consistently great pot of coffee with precise temperature control. Its most popular feature is the extra-large 14-cup glass carafe, making it perfect for large households, offices, or anyone who just drinks a lot of coffee.
- What it is: A programmable 14-cup drip coffee maker known for its straightforward performance and large capacity.
- Key features: 14-cup glass carafe with adjustable warming plate, brew strength control (regular or bold), full 24-hour programmability, auto-shutoff (0-4 hours), self-clean function, and a 1-4 cup setting for smaller batches.
- Price: Usually available for $100 - $150.
- Style: A classic, functional design available in multiple finishes including stainless steel, black, and white to fit any kitchen style.
- Materials/Construction: A combination of a durable plastic body with stainless steel accents and a sturdy glass carafe.
- Pros: Excellent value for money. Very large 14-cup capacity is great for groups. Simple to operate and clean. More compact and lightweight than grind-and-brew models. PerfecTemp technology ensures hotter coffee without sacrificing flavor.
- Cons: No built-in grinder for fresh beans. The warming plate can scorch the coffee if it's left on for a long time. Materials feel less premium than the CBC-6800PC.
The DCC-3200 is an outstanding choice for those who need a dependable, high-capacity coffee maker for daily use and prefer simplicity and value over advanced features like a grinder.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/coffee_makers/
Cuisinart CBC-6800PC vs. DCC-3200 Comparison
Features & Convenience
The core difference lies right in the main feature set. The CBC-6800PC is built around its integrated ceramic burr grinder, making it a complete bean-to-cup solution. This offers unparalleled convenience for those who want the freshest coffee without a separate grinder. You simply add beans and water, and it handles the rest. Its thermal carafe adds another layer of convenience, keeping coffee ready-to-drink for hours.
The DCC-3200 focuses on perfecting the traditional drip brewing process. Its convenience comes from its simplicity and scale. It's fully programmable, includes a self-clean function, and features an adjustable auto-off, so it requires very little attention. While you need to add ground coffee manually, its entire operation is straightforward and aimed at producing a lot of coffee reliably.
Carafe Style & Capacity
The carafe is another major differentiator. The CBC-6800PC comes with a 12-cup double-walled, insulated thermal carafe. This is a premium component that coffee is brewed directly into. It maintains temperature using insulation, not external heat, so the coffee flavor remains pristine and never tastes burnt. However, its capacity is slightly smaller at 12 cups.
In contrast, the DCC-3200 boasts a larger 14-cup glass carafe that sits on an adjustable-temperature warming plate. This allows you to serve more people at once but introduces the risk of "stewing" or scorching the coffee if it's left sitting for an extended period. The glass carafe is easier to see into but less durable than its stainless-steel thermal counterpart.
Price & Value
There is a significant price gap between these two models. The CBC-6800PC typically costs more than double the price of the DCC-3200. Its value is tied to its all-in-one functionality, as a good standalone burr grinder can easily cost over $100. If you are already planning to buy a separate grinder, the integrated system of the CBC-6800PC offers a streamlined and potentially space-saving value.
The DCC-3200 offers exceptional value for its performance and capacity. For around $100, it's a highly-rated, durable machine that's capable of brewing up to 14 cups reliably daily. Its value is in excellent execution of fundamentals, great temperature control, programming, and a very simple user experience at a hard-to-beat price point.
Design & Footprint
The Cuisinart CBC-6800PC is noticeably larger and taller (roughly 10.9 x 7.2 x 16.2 inches) to accommodate the bean hopper and grinder. This extra bulk results in a modern, premium machine aesthetic that has a solid presence on a kitchen counter. Its sleek brushed metal finish contributes strongly to this look.
The DCC-3200 is a more compact fit, perfect for storing under cabinets or in smaller spaces (approximately 9 x 7.75 x 14 inches). Its design is functional rather than contemporary, making it easy to fit into most existing kitchens without standing out as a showpiece item. It's smaller and light enough to be stored away when needed.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both coffee makers are fantastic options from a trusted brand, but they are built for different priorities.
Choose the Cuisinart CBC-6800PC if:
- You exclusively use whole coffee beans and want the freshest flavor possible.
- You want an all-in-one appliance to save counter space compared to having a separate brewer and grinder.
- You dislike the taste of coffee that has been sitting on a hot plate.
- You appreciate a premium, modern stainless steel aesthetic and are willing to pay for it.
Choose the Cuisinart DCC-3200 if:
- You buy pre-ground coffee or already own a grinder you love.
- Capacity is a top priority - you often brew for a family, guests, or a small office.
- You are looking for the best performance and reliability at a budget-friendly price.
- You prefer simple operation and easy cleaning without extra components like a grinder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Cuisinart CBC-6800PC and DCC-3200?
The biggest difference is that the CBC-6800PC has a built-in burr grinder for fresh, bean-to-cup brewing and a thermal carafe. The DCC-3200 is a traditional large-capacity drip machine that uses pre-ground coffee and has a glass carafe with a warming plate.
How long does the CBC-6800PC's thermal carafe keep coffee hot?
The double-walled thermal carafe on the CBC-6800PC is designed to maintain hot drinks for several hours without heating. Many users report that it keeps coffee very warm for two to three hours and reasonably warm for a few more.
Can I use pre-ground coffee in the Cuisinart CBC-6800PC?
Yes. The CBC-6800PC has a "Grind Off" feature that allows you to bypass the grinder and add pre-ground coffee directly into the brew basket.
Which model is easier to clean?
The DCC-3200 is easier to clean as it does not have a built-in grinder, which requires regular maintenance. The filter basket and carafe are dishwasher safe, and the machine has a self-clean function.
Does the DCC-3200’s warming plate burn the coffee?
Like any coffee maker with a hot plate, it can alter the taste of coffee if left on for many hours. However, the DCC-3200 features an adjustable temperature setting (low, medium, high) and an adjustable auto-shutoff timer (0-4 hours), giving you more control to prevent scorching.
Which Cuisinart coffee machine is better for just one person?
While both are larger-capacity models, the DCC-3200 includes a dedicated 1-4 cup setting that adjusts the brewing process to optimize the flavor for smaller batches, making it a better choice if you don't always brew a full pot.
What kinds of filters do they use?
Both models come with a reusable gold-tone permanent filter, which eliminates the need for paper filters. They also both use a charcoal water filter to remove impurities from the water before brewing for a better-tasting cup.
Is the higher price of the CBC-6800PC worth it?
It's worth it if a fresh grind is your top priority. A quality standalone burr grinder often costs over $100. For coffee enthusiasts who demand the aroma and flavor of just-ground beans, the CBC-6800PC offers a convenient, seamless brewing experience.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
