Comparing Glass and Stainless Steel Coffeemaker Types

When you are planning to buy a coffeemaker, you will most probably be faced with a choice between a stainless steel coffeemaker and a glass coffeemaker. Stainless steel and glass are the two widely purchased coffee maker types in most places, both having their own advantages and disadvantages. With steel appliances gaining in popularity as compared to others, stainless steel coffee makers have been selling better than ever.

Durability

The biggest advantage of stainless steel coffeemakers over glass coffeemakers is the durability of the carafe. Glass carafes can break quite easily while handling or washing. Sometimes you may leave the carafe in the sink, and it may break when other utensils are added. Many of us have had to scour stores and websites looking for a replacement glass carafe, because they are used so often and are so prone to breakage.

Functionality

Another key advantage of the stainless steel carafe is the thermal functionality. Most steel carafes are also thermal. They function similar to flasks, keeping coffee warm for a long time. Unlike glass coffeemakers, stainless steel coffeemakers do not have to be turned on for the coffee to stay warm.

Energy Efficiency

Glass carafes require a hot surface underneath to keep the coffee warm. Your coffee will stay warm only as long as the coffeemaker is on, making these appliances low in energy efficiency. Safety can also be a concern, because you have to keep reminding yourself to turn off the coffeemaker. On a busy morning, you may forget to turn it off, only to return home to the smell of burnt coffee. Stainless steel carafes use insulation to keep coffee warm, instead of electricity, resulting in lower power bills and no burnt coffee.

Taste

Stainless steel coffeemakers produce coffee that somehow tastes superior to glass coffeemakers. This fact is also attributable to the thermal feature that is missing in glass carafes. Because you have to leave the glass coffeemaker turned on to keep the coffee warm, the coffee in the bottom of the carafe gets burnt. As a result, the last cup of coffee from a glass coffeemaker never tastes as good as the first, fresh cup. Sometimes, you may have to discard the coffee and brew another pot, resulting in wastage.

Cost

Stainless steel coffeemakers tend to be more expensive than glass coffeemakers because of the durability and benefits they offer. However, they are also more long-lasting, making them economically wise choices. Stainless steel coffeemakers are also superior in appearance, adding an elegant touch to your kitchen. After prolonged use, glass coffeemakers tend to stain. They are also not as easy to clean as their stainless steel counterparts. Most kitchens nowadays have steel appliances, making a stainless steel coffeemaker the natural choice, which matches the existing décor.

When you weigh the pros and cons, stainless steel coffeemakers definitely have an edge over glass coffeemakers. If you do not mind spending a bit more, you can have a durable stainless steel coffeemaker that will last long, keep your coffee fresh for a longer time, and also keep your kitchen looking great.