BLACK+DECKER CM1160B-1 Coffee Maker Review: Performance and Features

Description

My Honest Review of the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker

Owning the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker (Model CM1160B-1) has been quite the journey. I picked it up after my old coffee maker decided to retire itself in a very dramatic, mid-morning-coffee-craving fashion. Being a caffeine enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to its sleek black and stainless steel design, promising modern functionality without the intimidation of a spaceship-like control panel. Spoiler: it’s a solid machine—but not without its quirks.

The Good: Brewing Simplicity Meets Modern Convenience

Let’s start with the QuickTouch Programming. This feature allowed me to set up the coffee maker the night before, so I could wake up to a fresh pot of coffee—no fumbling with buttons at 6 a.m. The 24-hour auto brew is a lifesaver for someone like me who is not a morning person. And the Sneak-A-Cup™ technology? Genius. It lets you steal a quick cup mid-brew without creating a caffeinated crime scene on your counter.

The Duralife™ glass carafe is another highlight. Its easy-grip handle makes pouring smooth, and the measurement markings help avoid the “oops, too much water” moments. The water window is a feature I didn’t think I’d care about, but it’s surprisingly helpful to quickly gauge the water level at a glance.

The Annoyances: A Few Bumps Along the Way

While the Nonstick Keep Hot Plate keeps coffee warm for two hours, this time limit is slightly annoying. I’ve had mornings where I got distracted, only to return to lukewarm coffee. The 2-hour auto shutoff might be a safety feature, but I wish there were an option to extend it for those marathon work-from-home mornings.

Another quirk? The paper filter sometimes folds over, especially when brewing a full 12 cups. I’ve learned to be extra careful when inserting the filter, but it’s a little frustrating if you’re rushing. Also, it is worth mentioning that the machine is not whisper-quiet during brewing. The occasional gurgles and hisses might wake up light sleepers.

How It Compares to Competitors

I’ve used a Keurig before, and while single-serving convenience is nice, the BLACK+DECKER coffee maker excels in brewing for a crowd. The price point is far more reasonable than many Keurigs or similar pod-based systems, especially when you factor in the cost of pods versus ground coffee. Compared to the Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Maker, I’d say the BLACK+DECKER wins in ease of programming and design, but Mr. Coffee edges ahead in quieter brewing.

Cost Analysis: Is It Worth It?

Without diving into exact numbers, the value for money is impressive. You’re getting a programmable machine with reusable filter compatibility and a 12-cup capacity, which is a lot for a mid-range coffee maker. If you’re someone who needs basic functionality with a touch of modern tech—this is a great choice.

Design and Build Quality: Sturdy Yet Lightweight

The coffee maker has a low-profile build, fitting easily under my kitchen cabinets. The black matte finish with stainless steel accents gives it a modern look, though it does show smudges if you’ve got greasy fingers (invest in a microfiber cloth!). At 4.5 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move around but still feels durable. However, the carafe lid feels a bit flimsy, so handle with care.

To sum it up, the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker is a great option for anyone looking for a straightforward machine with a few handy features. It’s not perfect, but it’s reliable, attractive, and gets the job done. Coffee snobs might yearn for higher-end machines, but for the rest of us who just need a hot cup of joe? This one’s a keeper.

Pros

• Programmability: The 24-hour auto brew feature is perfect for setting up coffee the night before.
• Sneak-A-Cup™ Technology: Allows you to pour a cup mid-brew without mess.
• Compact Design: Fits easily under cabinets and doesn’t take up much counter space.
• Reusable Filter-Friendly: Save money and reduce waste by using a reusable coffee filter.
• Easy-to-Read Water Window: Makes it simple to fill the reservoir without guesswork.

Cons

• 2-Hour Shutoff Limit: The warming plate turns off after two hours, which might not be ideal for slow drinkers.
• Noisy Brewing: Brewing sounds can be a bit loud, especially for early mornings in a quiet house.
• Filter Folds: Paper filters occasionally fold over, leading to grounds in your coffee.
• Carafe Lid Quality: The lid feels a bit fragile and could use sturdier construction.
• No Customization for Shutoff: You can’t adjust the auto shutoff time, limiting flexibility for long mornings.

What Comes with the Product

• 12-Cup Duralife™ Glass Carafe
• Washable, Reusable Filter Basket
• User Manual
• Power Cord (Attached)

How to Use Guide

1. Set Up the Machine: Place the coffee maker on a flat, dry surface. Plug it in.
2. Fill the Reservoir: Use the water window to measure the desired amount of water and pour it into the reservoir.
3. Insert Coffee Grounds: Add a paper filter or reusable mesh filter to the basket. Scoop ground coffee into the filter (roughly 1-2 tablespoons per cup, depending on taste).
4. Program if Needed: Press the hour and minute buttons to set the correct time. To program brewing, hit “program,” adjust the time, and press “auto.”
5. Start Brewing: Press the “on” button for immediate brewing or let the auto timer do its magic.
6. Sneak a Cup: Mid-brew? Pull the carafe out, pour a cup, and return it quickly to avoid drips.
7. Cleaning: Empty the filter basket and rinse the carafe after every use. For deep cleaning, run a vinegar-water solution through the machine monthly.

Warranty & Support Information

The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Should any issues arise, you can contact customer support via their official website or by phone. They typically provide troubleshooting instructions or replacement options if the problem persists. Keep your proof of purchase handy, as it’s required for warranty claims. Additionally, the machine is easy to maintain with a detailed user manual and cleaning guide included in the box.

Additional information