The Cuisinart DGB-900BC and the DGB-700BC are similar all-in-one coffee machines from Cuisinart that grind whole beans right before brewing. The main difference is that the DGB-900BC is a more premium model with advanced controls and a more refined design, whereas the DGB-700BC offers the same core quality brewing and grinding functions in a more affordable, straightforward package.
Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Cuisinart grind-and-brew coffee maker for your kitchen.
Cuisinart DGB-900BC Grind & Brew Thermal Coffeemaker
The DGB-900BC is Cuisinart's premium all-in-one coffee solution, designed for those who want maximum control over their coffee experience. It combines a professional-style burr grinder with a fully programmable coffeemaker in a sleek stainless steel unit. Its key draw is the exceptional customization, from grind size to brew strength, all managed through an intuitive digital interface.
- What it is: A fully automatic 12-cup grind-and-brew coffeemaker with a built-in burr grinder and thermal carafe.
- Key features: Built-in conical burr grinder with multiple settings, 8 oz. bean hopper, brew strength control (mild, medium, strong), 24-hour programmability, brew-pause function, gold-tone filter, and a durable 12-cup thermal carafe that keeps coffee hot for hours.
- Price: Around $180 - $220.
- Dimensions: Approximately 11" x 7" x 15".
- Materials/Construction: Features a durable stainless steel housing and a double-wall insulated stainless steel thermal carafe for excellent heat retention.
- Style: Modern and sophisticated with a polished stainless steel finish that complements contemporary kitchens.
- Pros: Excellent grind and brew customization, keeps coffee hot and fresh without a warming plate, premium build quality, all-in-one convenience saves counter space, fully programmable for wake-up coffee.
- Cons: Higher price point, can be loud during the grinding process, requires more cleaning than a standard drip machine.
The DGB-900BC is the right choice for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate precise control and are willing to invest in a machine that delivers a superior, customized brew.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/coffee_makers/dgb-900bc/
Cuisinart DGB-700BC Grind & Brew Thermal Coffeemaker
The Cuisinart DGB-700BC offers a high-quality grind-and-brew experience for a more accessible price. It shares many of the essential features of the DGB-900BC, including the burr grinder and thermal carafe, making it a powerful contender. It's designed for coffee lovers who want the freshness of just-ground beans without the complexity or cost of a premium model.
- What it is: A budget-friendly, fully automatic 12-cup coffeemaker with an integrated burr grinder.
- Key features: Built-in conical burr grinder with several settings, 24-hour programmability, brew strength control, 12-cup thermal carafe for heat retention, charcoal water filter to remove impurities.
- Price: Around $130 - $170.
- Dimensions: Marginally smaller than the DGB-900BC, making it a good fit for tighter spaces.
- Materials/Construction: Blends a stainless steel front panel with high-quality plastic components and features the same double-wall thermal carafe.
- Style: Sleek and functional with a modern aesthetic that easily fits into most kitchen decors.
- Pros: Provides excellent value for the price, delivers the same fresh coffee benefits as higher-end models, smaller footprint is ideal for limited counter space, reliable and easy to use.
- Cons: Fewer grind customization options compared to the DGB-900BC, control panel is less advanced, design is more functional than luxurious.
This coffeemaker is perfect for anyone wanting to step up to a grind-and-brew machine for daily use without paying for extra features you may not need.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/coffee_makers/dgb-700bc/
Cuisinart DGB-900BC vs. DGB-700BC Comparison
Grinder & Brewing Control
Both machines feature an integrated conical burr grinder, which is superior to blade grinders for creating a consistent grind and a richer flavor. The key difference lies in the level of control. The DGB-900BC offers more granular grind settings, allowing coffee aficionados to dial in the perfect coarseness for their taste. Both models feature brew strength control (mild, medium, strong) and can handle pre-ground coffee with a grind-off function.
Materials & Design
Visually, both coffee makers share a similar modern aesthetic centered on stainless steel. The premium DGB-900BC has a more substantial-feeling stainless steel housing and a more sophisticated digital LCD display, which gives it a more high-end appearance overall. The DGB-700BC combines a stainless front panel with durable plastic in other areas, making it feel slightly less premium but still sturdy and well-built. Both include an identical double-wall insulated thermal carafe that effectively keeps coffee hot without scorching it.
Price & Value
The DGB-700BC typically costs between $40-$50 less than the DGB-900BC, representing a significant saving. The value proposition is clear for each: the DGB-700BC offers incredible value by providing the essential, high-impact features (burr grinder, thermal carafe, programmable controls) at a very competitive price. The DGB-900BC justifies its higher cost with more precise grind control, a more advanced interface, and a superior finish, appealing to users who want the best experience available in the series.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Cuisinart DGB-900BC is built for the home barista who enjoys experimenting with grind sizes and brew strengths to achieve the perfect cup of coffee. If you appreciate premium finishes and want the most capable machine in this specific lineup, the extra cost is worthwhile.
Conversely, the Cuisinart DGB-700BC is ideal for the practical coffee lover. It’s for anyone who wants to dramatically improve their morning coffee by grinding fresh beans but doesn't need precision-level controls. It delivers over 80% of the functionality of its bigger sibling for a much lower price, making it a fantastic choice for most households.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both of these Cuisinart coffee makers produce an excellent cup of coffee, but they are tailored to slightly different users and budgets.
Choose the DGB-900BC if:
- You want the most control over your coffee's grind size and strength.
- A premium, mostly stainless steel design is important to you.
- You appreciate a more advanced digital display and interface.
- Your budget comfortably accommodates the higher price tag for better features.
Choose the DGB-700BC if:
- You want the best possible value in a grind-and-brew machine.
- You need the essential features - like a burr grinder and thermal carafe - without paying for extras.
- You're upgrading from a standard drip machine and want a simple-to-use option.
- You have limited counter space or are working within a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the DGB-900BC and DGB-700BC?
The primary difference is that the DGB-900BC is a more premium model offering finer control over the grinding process, a more advanced digital interface, and a more robust stainless steel construction. The DGB-700BC offers the same core technology at a lower price with slightly fewer features and a mixed material build.
Do both models use a burr grinder?
Yes, both models use a conical burr grinder. This is a significant advantage over blade grinders, as burr grinders crush beans to a uniform consistency, which allows for a more even extraction and a much better-tasting cup of coffee.
Can I use pre-ground coffee in these machines?
Yes, both the DGB-900BC and the DGB-700BC include a "grind off" feature. This allows you to bypass the built-in grinder and use your favorite pre-ground coffee directly in the filter basket, just like a standard drip coffee machine.
How does the thermal carafe keep coffee hot?
The double-wall, vacuum-insulated stainless steel carafe is designed to trap heat from the freshly brewed coffee, keeping it hot for hours without an external heat source. This is better than a traditional glass carafe on a hot plate, which continues to cook the coffee and can make it taste bitter or burnt over time.
Are grind-and-brew machines difficult to clean?
They require more cleaning than basic drip machines. The grinder, the chute that transfers grounds to the filter, and the filter basket all need to be cleaned regularly to prevent clogs and ensure fresh-tasting coffee. However, Cuisinart designs them for relatively easy disassembly for cleaning.
How large is the bean hopper?
Both models feature an 8 oz. (half-pound) capacity bean hopper with a sealed lid to help keep your coffee beans fresh.
How noisy are these coffee makers?
Any machine with a built-in burr grinder will produce a noticeable amount of noise during the grinding cycle, which typically lasts less than a minute. The noise level of both models is comparable and is a normal part of the process.
What type of warranty does Cuisinart offer on these products?
Cuisinart typically provides a limited 3-year warranty for these models, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal home use.
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