Smeg Retro Drip Filter Coffee Machine, Cream

I love the SMEG appliances, having collected several of them, which look lovely on my countertop. Despite this drip coffee machine having solid reviews with a high star rating on many different websites and brewing a great coffee while looking handsome, it has one fatal flaw. After closer inspection of the reviews I found one negative review, which I whole-heartedly agree with. How does nobody else comment that you cannot actually fill the reservoir with the SMEG coffee pot as every other coffee pot brand does!! The lid to the reservoir does not open enough that you cannot fully tilt the coffee pot to to pour your measured water in. Furthermore, trying to fill the tiny reservoir opening awkwardly, water inevitably spills and drips onto the burner plate, which also ... MoreI love the SMEG appliances, having collected several of them, which look lovely on my countertop. Despite this drip coffee machine having solid reviews with a high star rating on many different websites and brewing a great coffee while looking handsome, it has one fatal flaw. After closer inspection of the reviews I found one negative review, which I whole-heartedly agree with. How does nobody else comment that you cannot actually fill the reservoir with the SMEG coffee pot as every other coffee pot brand does!! The lid to the reservoir does not open enough that you cannot fully tilt the coffee pot to to pour your measured water in. Furthermore, trying to fill the tiny reservoir opening awkwardly, water inevitably spills and drips onto the burner plate, which also then needs to be wiped dry prior to putting the pot on the plate to brew. As a solution, I simply overfill the pot and monitor the measurement on the reservoir to assure of the intended brewing amount and then wipe the plate dry. The saying, “your lucky your cute” very much applies to this otherwise high performing aappliance.

The biggest advantage of this coffee machine is its beautiful design. The retro style and pastel colors tones are designed to be the centerpiece of your kitchen. They are available in four colors: cream, mint, green, blue or black, which can be combined with each other. green, mint green, blue or black, which can be combined with with other Smeg appliances such as kettles or toasters. However, I don't want to talk just about looks. The machine is also heavy and sturdy, made of quality materials and a little bit bigger than than expected. Because of its unusual shape, I'm going to need more space in the kitchen. And if you feel that it might be cramped, it's recommended that you measure your space before purchasing. The flavor depends a lot on the coffee beans you're ... MoreThe biggest advantage of this coffee machine is its beautiful design. The retro style and pastel colors tones are designed to be the centerpiece of your kitchen. They are available in four colors: cream, mint, green, blue or black, which can be combined with each other. green, mint green, blue or black, which can be combined with with other Smeg appliances such as kettles or toasters. However, I don't want to talk just about looks. The machine is also heavy and sturdy, made of quality materials and a little bit bigger than than expected. Because of its unusual shape, I'm going to need more space in the kitchen. And if you feel that it might be cramped, it's recommended that you measure your space before purchasing. The flavor depends a lot on the coffee beans you're you're using, so it's important to make an effort finding the best beans and grinding them fresh. with the right grind. But if you take note of all the the basic principles of bean handling, coffee, made with your Smeg coffee maker will be consistently pleasant and smooth. One of our favorite features is the is the automatic start function, which allows you to start brewing at a certain time, which means you can have a freshly brewed cup the minute as soon as you set your alarm in the morning.

Aesthetic over Usefulness

I blame nobody but myself because I have read some reviews and I have read a lot stating its very retro in terms of functionality and its just another pretty machine as a display. I still went ahead and purchased. After just 2 days, I can attest its very accurate. You buy it only for the looks and non for the functionality. I plan to buy other Smeg kitchen appliance to have a complete look but not anymore. Its not my habit to return and so I am just cutting my lose over something that will just get dusted without serving its purpose. I learned it the hard way, at times like these, we have to be wise of our purchases.Setting time for auto brew --- Not easy. Its just a toggle between up and down button and still it manages to get complicatedKeeping warm --- 60 ... MoreI blame nobody but myself because I have read some reviews and I have read a lot stating its very retro in terms of functionality and its just another pretty machine as a display. I still went ahead and purchased. After just 2 days, I can attest its very accurate. You buy it only for the looks and non for the functionality. I plan to buy other Smeg kitchen appliance to have a complete look but not anymore. Its not my habit to return and so I am just cutting my lose over something that will just get dusted without serving its purpose. I learned it the hard way, at times like these, we have to be wise of our purchases.Setting time for auto brew --- Not easy. Its just a toggle between up and down button and still it manages to get complicatedKeeping warm --- 60 minutes is not enough, more coffee is wasted than used. I would often times get a cup and microwave the remaining coffee. It would be best if atleast there's a reheat type of feature.Water reservoir --- I always spill water because the cover will only go a certain angle and in order for water not to spill while refilling with water, it would be best to get a long neck type of container so it will fit the angle needed to pour water without spilling.Aesthetic --- the only good thing I see in this product

Almost no positives for this coffee maker.

Tried it for two months. Literally the only positive is that it looks cool. Issues: you cannot physically pour all the water into the top. The lid is in the way, we had to move the pot and use the sink hose to fill because it was so annoying. Can't believe this simple design flaw. Next, it's so small. It says 10 cup but I think it's European 10 cup because it's tiny. That might be doable, but the worst thing is the heater only stays on 1 hour. Cannot be changed. We had to turn it back on pretty much every time we poured a cup or it would already be turned off. Basically this is poorly designed and would only work for light coffee drinkers. My friend just bought the same one and she hates it too. Save your money, there's so many nice looking pots out there now. ... MoreTried it for two months. Literally the only positive is that it looks cool. Issues: you cannot physically pour all the water into the top. The lid is in the way, we had to move the pot and use the sink hose to fill because it was so annoying. Can't believe this simple design flaw. Next, it's so small. It says 10 cup but I think it's European 10 cup because it's tiny. That might be doable, but the worst thing is the heater only stays on 1 hour. Cannot be changed. We had to turn it back on pretty much every time we poured a cup or it would already be turned off. Basically this is poorly designed and would only work for light coffee drinkers. My friend just bought the same one and she hates it too. Save your money, there's so many nice looking pots out there now. Shocked at the price for value.

Big, expensive, beautiful

Prior to purchase, I already owned a drip coffee machine and in many ways it was ideal - being compact, simple to use and reliable. But the glass carafe had cracked whilst washing up and so I decided to put the replacement back in its box before the same thing happened again. The deciding factor was my recent buy of a Smeg milk frother, which was a work of art as well as being exceptionally solidly made. So a matching cream coloured coffee maker was added and I must say that overall it didn't disappoint.To be honest, watching numerous unboxing and instructional videos on the machine didn't prepare me for the sheer size of the thing. When the lid is lifted to either fill the container with cold water or add coffee to the built-in filter compartment, I found it ... MorePrior to purchase, I already owned a drip coffee machine and in many ways it was ideal - being compact, simple to use and reliable. But the glass carafe had cracked whilst washing up and so I decided to put the replacement back in its box before the same thing happened again. The deciding factor was my recent buy of a Smeg milk frother, which was a work of art as well as being exceptionally solidly made. So a matching cream coloured coffee maker was added and I must say that overall it didn't disappoint.To be honest, watching numerous unboxing and instructional videos on the machine didn't prepare me for the sheer size of the thing. When the lid is lifted to either fill the container with cold water or add coffee to the built-in filter compartment, I found it necessary to move the whole unit forwards from its normal resting position against the kitchen wall. If you are intending to place it beneath fitted cupboards, as I did, you will definitely have to do the same. But it's not heavy despite the shape and size. Another minor inconvenience unfortunately is that the carafe isn't perfectly suited to the task of refilling the water tank. I use a pint sized Pyrex jug instead, which makes sense for me because it contains exactly four cups worth of liquid for my morning coffee fix. The carafe can't be angled to empty all its contents into the container because the available space at the top is rather narrow for its needs. A design flaw, but thankfully the only one that springs to mind.I suggest that this machine is actually too big for the normal needs of one person, but don't let my opinion put you off if you appreciate its style and need a new coffee machine. The results are perfect and it is easy to clean afterwards. There is a built-in flashing reminder when you need to descale the machine and a program that enables you to carry this out without mess or fuss. All I'm saying in the negative is that two or more coffee drinkers will get better value out of it than myself.The coffee produced by the machine is lovely and I really love the 1950s style buttons and levers that combine retro style and modern technology. I hope and believe the Smeg coffee maker will pass the test of time in terms of function as well as it obviously will in form and good looks. It will undoubtedly enhance your kitchen and give you great coffee and a bit of a thrill every time you look at it. So it's a thumbs up from me.

Complete waste of money

I cannot overstate what a colossal waste of money this machine is. I received it as a bridal shower gift, and hoped it would see me through many years of use.Within the first few months, all labels had scratched off the carafe, and the reusable filter was torn. Smeg honoured their warranty and sent replacements; the replacement carafe shattered within 2 months. Note that we are METICULOUS about washing these items: always by hand, with no other dishes in the sink, immediately dried & put away. A replacement carafe is $60-70, alone (i.e., the price of a low-end coffee maker!)Now, the light behind the delay-brew button (the only way of telling if the machine has been set up for delayed brew) has burned out. I reached out to Smeg on this 2 weeks ago: no ... MoreI cannot overstate what a colossal waste of money this machine is. I received it as a bridal shower gift, and hoped it would see me through many years of use.Within the first few months, all labels had scratched off the carafe, and the reusable filter was torn. Smeg honoured their warranty and sent replacements; the replacement carafe shattered within 2 months. Note that we are METICULOUS about washing these items: always by hand, with no other dishes in the sink, immediately dried & put away. A replacement carafe is $60-70, alone (i.e., the price of a low-end coffee maker!)Now, the light behind the delay-brew button (the only way of telling if the machine has been set up for delayed brew) has burned out. I reached out to Smeg on this 2 weeks ago: no response.Other than the "look" of this machine (which is beautiful), it is absolutely NOT worth the price. The parts aren't reliable, and the coffee is no better than what would be brewed by an average maker.

Hugely disappointing piece of plastic

Was so excited for this very cute coffee machine, only to be hugely disappointed. We've had this now for a few years, only because I refuse to throw out something I paid so much for (I saved up for this piece of plastic!) Here are the main cons I will list out:- Pouring water into the tank is nearly impossible. It's a tight fit, and the way that the pot is shaped makes it impossible to pour out all of the water from the pot into the tank. It seems small to complain about, but it wastes water and for such a pricey piece, it's a dumb design flaw.- The handle is literally painted plastic. After only a few months it became discolored, and looks and feels cheap.- The grey plastic coffee pot cover is stained from the coffee. Why is this made of plastic?- The digital ... MoreWas so excited for this very cute coffee machine, only to be hugely disappointed. We've had this now for a few years, only because I refuse to throw out something I paid so much for (I saved up for this piece of plastic!) Here are the main cons I will list out:- Pouring water into the tank is nearly impossible. It's a tight fit, and the way that the pot is shaped makes it impossible to pour out all of the water from the pot into the tank. It seems small to complain about, but it wastes water and for such a pricey piece, it's a dumb design flaw.- The handle is literally painted plastic. After only a few months it became discolored, and looks and feels cheap.- The grey plastic coffee pot cover is stained from the coffee. Why is this made of plastic?- The digital clock has been missing two number digits due to the machine steaming when it brews a pot of coffee- The vents on the back of the machine are discolored from the steam run off.All in all, I will never again buy a product for being pretty without thoroughly looking at the reviews. I thought Smeg was a good brand and that I could trust in it - especially at this price point, I expected a far higher quality coffee machine.

Multiple Design Flaws the Company has not Fixed

I'd had my first SMEG coffee maker for two years and with all the bad reviews about the coffee maker only staying hot for one hour, I assumed that that engineering flaw would have been fixed on the newer models. All of SMEG's competition has located engineers able to design 10-cup coffee makers that can keep coffee hot long enough to enjoy a second cup. However, with my new pot, not only was that original flaw not corrected, but the newly-designed lids now leak coffee on the counter when pouring a cup of coffee. This was not a problem with our first pot. So sad that such a beautiful design has been so poorly engineered and that the company does not read reviews and correct all the original flaws. They are losing a lot of potential customers who love the look of the ... MoreI'd had my first SMEG coffee maker for two years and with all the bad reviews about the coffee maker only staying hot for one hour, I assumed that that engineering flaw would have been fixed on the newer models. All of SMEG's competition has located engineers able to design 10-cup coffee makers that can keep coffee hot long enough to enjoy a second cup. However, with my new pot, not only was that original flaw not corrected, but the newly-designed lids now leak coffee on the counter when pouring a cup of coffee. This was not a problem with our first pot. So sad that such a beautiful design has been so poorly engineered and that the company does not read reviews and correct all the original flaws. They are losing a lot of potential customers who love the look of the coffee maker but walk away when reading poor reviews about easily correctable flaws.

Poorly Designed Coffee Maker

If I could give this product a 0 out of 5, I would. You can't fill the holding tank without spilling water all of your counter and inside the filter unit, which then results in a lot of water flowing into your pot before ever brewing coffee. Then, after your coffee is brewed, you MUST line up the lid perfectly or your coffee will spill, again, all over your counters when pouring into your coffee cup. SMEG must not have a quality control division because this is clearly a poorly designed coffee maker and NOT worth the money. I plan to change mine out and give away over the coming months. I haven't done this in the past only because this was a gift from my wife.On a positive note, we also have the SMEG toaster, and it works very well.

Wimpy Warmer

Great looking. I purchased the pastel blue. Love the way it looks on my counter! Too bad it falls short in key areas. The functionality is a good balance of what you need, keeping it simple, and not lots of unnecessary functions. The water is a bit hard to pour in but just take you time and it's not that bad. The carafe is a bit in the "cheapy" side in terms of construction, but I can live with that. It's adequate. The coffee tastes good (not the best) and probably takes some time finding the right balance of grounds to get perfect.Here's the thing that kills the deal for me and why I am sending this unit back ....The temperature of the coffee is not hot enough!It's somewhere between warm and hot. I must microwave my coffee after it is done brewing in the Smeg ... MoreGreat looking. I purchased the pastel blue. Love the way it looks on my counter! Too bad it falls short in key areas. The functionality is a good balance of what you need, keeping it simple, and not lots of unnecessary functions. The water is a bit hard to pour in but just take you time and it's not that bad. The carafe is a bit in the "cheapy" side in terms of construction, but I can live with that. It's adequate. The coffee tastes good (not the best) and probably takes some time finding the right balance of grounds to get perfect.Here's the thing that kills the deal for me and why I am sending this unit back ....The temperature of the coffee is not hot enough!It's somewhere between warm and hot. I must microwave my coffee after it is done brewing in the Smeg drip coffee maker. Totally unacceptable!Hopefully this write up makes it to the SMEG drip coffee maker product team. You need to increase the performance of the warmer and but a higher quality warmer plate in future units.