Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker Review
Our Rating: 4.5/5
FEATURES:
- Soft pod compatible
- 24-hour programmability
- Auto-off and automatic Pause and Serve functions
- User-friendly interface
- Stainless steel build
- Brews grounds and pods
- Single-serve option
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Our Rating: 4.5/5
FEATURES:
- Soft pod compatible
- 24-hour programmability
- Auto-off and automatic Pause and Serve functions
- User-friendly interface
- Stainless steel build
- Brews grounds and pods
- Single-serve option
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Review Summary
If you find it impossible to choose between different coffee machine types, the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer coffee maker could solve your troubles. Believe me when I say that this machine does it all — and well at that.
As the name suggests, this coffee machine brews in two different ways; use pods or grinds as you prefer. It’s great for coffee drinkers who enjoy shaking things up every once in a while, and it saves you the money you’d otherwise spend on two separate machines.
The Hamilton Beach 49980A also lets you adjust your brew. Choose between regular or bold, depending on how strong you’d like your coffee to be (or how late your night was).
It’s not the only programmable option either.
You can set this machine to automatically start brewing up to 24 hours in advance. Combined with the single-serve option (for ground coffee only), it’s an excellent choice for those who prefer their coffee to go. That said, when you’re not in a hurry, the Hamilton Beach model 49980A is a 12-cup machine, making it a perfect fit for larger households (or coffee addicts, like me!).
Despite how complex this two-in-one machine is, its design is straightforward. The digital screen is uncomplicated and easy to read, while its control panel is clearly labeled and intuitive. Unlike most programmable machines, the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer is hassle-free.
The 49980A isn’t as large as you might expect. While not a compact machine — it’s 13.9 inches tall, 12.2 inches wide, and 11 inches deep — its footprint isn’t bad considering that it’s technically two coffee makers rolled into one. As for its build, this model is stainless steel with a glass carafe and a mesh filter.
This coffee maker is a middle ground between sophistication and affordability. While it’s not quite a high-end model, it’s not a budget machine either, which could frustrate buyers looking for either extreme. It’s an excellent all-rounder but could be overkill to some.
Hamilton Beach has operated since 1910, an impressive stretch indeed. With more than a century of experience under its belt, it’s safe to say that if any brand could pull off a machine like the 2-Way Brewer, it’s this one.
Pros
- Brews pods and grounds
- Can be programmed up to 24 hours ahead
- Single-serve option
- Adjustable brew strength
- Easy operation
Cons
- It’s noisy
- No temperature control
- Not the fastest machine on the market
Features and Benefits of the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker
If you’re not entirely convinced the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer coffee maker is a good investment, I have a few points that may change your mind. Here’s what you can expect:
It’s Multifunctional
The Hamilton Beach coffee maker 49980A is a drip coffee maker and a pod machine rolled into one, which is excellent for enthusiasts who like variety. You can brew according to what you’re in the mood for or how much time you have. There’s no need to invest in different coffee makers to perform each function, so it saves you money as well.
You may think it’s no big deal because multifunctional machines are gaining popularity, but what makes the Hamilton Beach model stand out is its price. Dual machines usually cost a lot more, but the 49980A is budget-friendly without compromising quality or functionality.
Brew Strength and Size Control
Coffee enthusiasts have a reputation for being a bit… well, fussy. We want our coffee exactly as we like it. The Hamilton Beach coffee maker 49980A takes this into consideration by allowing users control over both strength and serving size.
In terms of flavor and potency, choose between regular strength or bold — a feature that’s always appreciated in coffee makers. As for size, although it’s a 12-cup machine, you can make use of its single-serving option too.
Additionally, the Pause and Serve feature means you can sneak a cup before the 12-cup brewing cycle is complete.
Cool Programmable Settings
Programmable coffee makers are a gift from the coffee gods because they remove a lot of the effort. The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer coffee maker has some great programmable and automatic features that you’ll love, especially if you’re in a hurry (or lazy!).
First, you can program this machine to automatically start brewing at a preferred time up to 24 hours in advance — extra handy if your mornings are usually busy or rushed. I love this feature because it means I can have a fresh cup waiting for me first thing in the morning without thinking about it.
Next, there’s its auto-off feature. If you forget to shut off your machine (say, in that morning rush I mentioned), the 49980A sorts itself out. The auto shut-down kicks in two hours after remaining idle. It’s a simple feature, but much appreciated as it saves you both worry and electricity.
It’s User-Friendly
Know those coffee makers that look like they belong in a highly advanced alien spacecraft? The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer isn’t one of them! This coffee maker is one of the most user-friendly models I’ve ever seen.
Its digital screen is easy to read and understand, and the controls are well-placed and clearly labeled. Programming this machine is a breeze, so even the most technologically inept coffee lover can effortlessly operate this coffee maker.
Its functionality hits the nail on the head, and so does the design. I have to hand it to Hamilton Beach, this coffee maker is streamlined, intuitive, and stylish — a rare feat!
Easy Cleaning
The Hamilton Beach 49980A has a stainless steel build that is easily wiped clean and demands little attention. Unlike many drip coffee makers, handling the carafe isn’t a hassle, and since it’s glass, you can quickly rinse it or pop it in the dishwasher.
It’s Durable
Hamilton Beach’s 2-Way coffee maker is made of strong stuff. It’s a quality machine that won’t deteriorate or fall apart quickly. Some buyers note their Hamilton Beach machines lasting for many years and working as smoothly as when first unpacked. If you maintain this model, it’s bound to last you well.
High Value for Money
Few coffee makers boast such excellent value for money as the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer coffee maker. Think about it; the 49980A is a sophisticated, programmable machine, both a drip model and a pod coffee maker. It’s built to last and gives you more choice than most budget-friendly devices.
It has all the functionality of high-end machines at a fraction of the price. Not to mention that the company hasn’t sacrificed quality for affordability. If you’re after a reliable machine that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, look no further!
What Do Users Say About the Hamilton Beach 49980A?
I like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer coffee maker. It’s flexible, affordable, and downright cool. But what do customers think? I took a look at reviews and found that most buyers agree.
Happy customers love that the Hamilton Beach 49980A is versatile and note its single-serve function as a hit. Positive comments include that it comes exactly as advertised, works flawlessly, and is easy to operate and maintain. Customers also love its affordability and note that the coffee quality is excellent.
One common criticism is that this machine isn’t always hot enough, something that’s worth your consideration if you prefer your joe scalding hot. Additionally, some buyers note it’s not K-Cup compatible, while others rated it lower because there’s no reusable filter included. As always, it’s wise to take some complaints with a pinch of salt.
That all said, there’s little to complain about, and reviewer compliments far outweigh complaints. Overall, the 49980A is a winner.
Conclusion
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer coffee maker is an excellent machine that offers up the best of both worlds in more ways than one. It’s sophisticated but affordable, brews both grounds and pods, and is a full drip machine and a single-serve coffee maker.
It’s worth investing in based on versatility alone, but if you still need convincing, consider its quality; this durable coffee maker is easy to maintain and will pay for itself over time.
However, this machine best suits those looking for an all-rounder. If you’re after simple, fast coffee, the bells or whistles here may not justify the investment. There’s also a chance the features it lack may bother you. For example, there’s no temperature control, and it only accepts soft pods, not K-Cups or other capsules.
Ultimately though, I find it hard to fault this machine. It works well, makes excellent coffee, and is a steal. What more could you want in a drip coffee maker!
Hamilton Beach 2-way Brewer Coffee Maker FAQs
Which Coffee Pods Are Compatible With the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker?
Most standard soft pods are compatible with Hamilton Beach coffee makers. Note that the 2-Way Brewer can not accept K-Cups or capsules.
Can I Program the Single-Serve Setting in a Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker?
Yes, you can! If your machine is set to single-serve, just program it as usual.
Can I Use a Standard Mug With the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker?
You can use a standard coffee mug in this Hamilton Beach coffee maker. You can even flip the base over to use it as a cup stand if you like!