Ninja DCM201BK Coffee Maker Review – Programmable XL 14-Cup Insights

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Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker PRO Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

I’ll admit, I have a soft spot for a good cup of coffee, so when I got my hands on the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker PRO (DCM201BK), I was cautiously optimistic. Having gone through several coffee makers over the years, I wanted to see if Ninja’s reputation for innovation extended to its coffee machines. Spoiler alert: this coffee maker has a lot going for it, but it’s not without its quirks.

Brewing Bliss or Bitter Disappointment? My First Sip

Setting up the Ninja 14-Cup Coffee Maker was absurdly easy. The first thing I noticed was the removable 70-ounce water reservoir—a feature that made filling it up a breeze. No more awkwardly trying to pour water from the carafe without spilling all over the counter (you know exactly what I’m talking about).

When I brewed my first pot, I used the “Classic” setting, which delivers a smooth and flavorful cup. The “Rich” setting, on the other hand, is perfect for mornings when I need my coffee to pack a punch. I even tested the small batch function (1-4 cups) for those solo coffee moments, and the taste held up just as well.

But here’s the kicker—the carafe doesn’t drip. If you’ve ever owned a coffee maker that leaves you cleaning up a trail of coffee every morning, this feature alone might make you want to throw your current machine out the window.

Quirks and Features: A Love-Hate Relationship

The Hotter Brewing Technology ensures that every cup is brewed at the perfect temperature, avoiding that dreaded bitter aftertaste. I also loved the variable warming plate with three temperature settings—it kept my coffee hot for hours without scorching it. The 24-hour programmable delay brew was a game-changer on busy mornings. Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee every day.

However, not everything was perfect. The gold-tone reusable filter is convenient, but I found myself occasionally reaching for paper filters because they seemed to trap more of the coffee grounds. Also, the machine is slightly larger than expected, so it might not fit perfectly under all kitchen cabinets.

Comparing the Ninja Coffee Maker to Competitors

Having owned models from Braun and Cuisinart in the past, I can confidently say that the Ninja DCM201BK stands out in a few key areas:

• Non-dripping carafe: Both Braun and Cuisinart models I’ve used in the past failed miserably in this department.
• Removable water reservoir: A feature that many competitors lack, making the Ninja far more user-friendly.
• Custom brew strengths: While some machines offer similar functionality, I found the Ninja’s options more intuitive and effective.

That said, Braun and Cuisinart models often feel a bit more “premium” in terms of build quality, and their designs tend to blend better with modern kitchens.

Is It Worth the Investment?

This coffee maker isn’t the cheapest on the market, but it delivers excellent value for its price. Features like the 14-cup capacity, mid-brew pause, and freshness timer make it ideal for households or offices where coffee flows like water. If you’re someone who values convenience and a reliable cup of coffee, the Ninja Coffee Maker PRO is a worthy contender.

Design and Build: Aesthetic Meets Functionality

The Black Stainless Steel exterior is sleek and adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. Despite its slightly bulky size, it’s thoughtfully designed, with minimal grooves and edges that make cleaning a breeze. The buttons are responsive and easy to navigate, which is a refreshing change from some overly complicated coffee makers.

Final Thoughts

Using the Ninja Programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee Maker PRO has been an overall satisfying experience. While it’s not completely flawless, its strengths far outweigh its minor drawbacks. For anyone who drinks coffee like it’s their lifeblood (guilty), this machine is a solid investment.

Pros

• Mid-Brew Pause: Easily pour a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is complete without mess or spills.
• Freshness Timer: Keeps track of when the coffee was brewed, ensuring you’re not sipping on stale coffee.
• Dishwasher-Safe Components: The carafe, filter, and other parts are easy to clean.
• Energy Efficiency: The auto shut-off feature saves energy, which is a nice bonus.
• Custom Brew Strengths: Whether you prefer a mild cup or a bold brew, this machine has you covered.

Cons

• Size: The machine’s height might make it a tight fit under smaller kitchen cabinets.
• Reusable Filter Issues: Grounds can seep through the permanent filter, especially with finer coffee.
• Plastic Build: While sturdy, some parts feel less premium compared to higher-end models.
• Noisy Brewing: It’s not the quietest machine, which might be an issue for early risers.
• Limited Aesthetic Options: The design works for most kitchens, but color choices are lacking.

What Comes with the Product

• 14-Cup Glass Carafe
• Gold-Tone Permanent Filter
• Ninja Scoop
• 70-Ounce Removable Water Reservoir
• Instruction Manual

How to Use Guide

1. Set Up: Place the coffee maker on a flat surface and plug it into a power outlet.
2. Fill Water Reservoir: Remove the 70-ounce reservoir, fill it with water, and securely place it back.
3. Add Coffee Grounds: Use the Ninja scoop to measure the desired amount of coffee grounds and place them in the filter.
4. Select Brew Style: Choose between “Classic” or “Rich” using the buttons on the interface.
5. Start Brewing: Press the “Start” button to begin brewing. Use the mid-brew pause if you need coffee immediately.
6. Adjust Warming Plate: Select one of the three temperature settings to keep your coffee warm.
7. Clean After Use: Remove and rinse the filter, carafe, and other components for daily maintenance.

Warranty & Support Information

The Ninja DCM201BK comes with a 1-year limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Support is available through Ninja’s customer service hotline and online resources, where you can find troubleshooting guides and FAQs. For any issues, be prepared to provide proof of purchase and details about the problem.

Additional information