Selecting the best coffee maker can be a daunting task. You do not know which qualities make a cup, perfect. You just need to get it, somehow. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCAA) has taken up this responsibility for you. It is a non-profit organization that provides certification only to the best of coffee machines.
SCAA tests coffee machines on different criteria in a rigorous manner. It is not easy to live up to their standards. A coffee machine goes through different tests. Brewing time, at appropriate water temperature, is noted. Another significant benchmark is the ability to brew within the SCA Golden cup recommendation. This can only be achieved by brewing coffee at the exact temperature for maximum flavor.
A brewer needs to pass all the tests. Only then he gets a much-coveted SCAA certification. If you are looking to buy one such machine. It is a sure sign of your passion for good coffee. A cup that has reached you after much hard work. Get yourself the best amongst them. We have created a list of top 5 SCAA certified coffee makers. Just dive in and pick up the best one for you.
All
Rounder
Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker
- SCAA certified
- Compact design
- Comes with a milk frother
High quality
Technivorm Moccamaster 59616
- Hand-made machine
- Approved by SCAA and ECBC
- Elegant design
Budget
Friendly
BUNN HB Programmable Coffee Maker
- Made of stainless steel
- Low budget product
- Unique looking pour spout
How Was This List Made?
Getting an SCAA certification is not easy. An equally difficult task is to find certified coffee machines. But we have gone far and wide. We took help from the SCAA website. Narrowed down certain options. Moreover, we scurried through various consumer discussion portals. Not to forget, highly reliable, Amazon ratings and reviews. So, go through the list below and buy the one that rings a bell.
What to look for?
The list discusses different parameters for you to look out for. Pay attention to the kind of material you want. Whether you are looking for a steel design or glass. Whether it fits your kitchen cabinet. How many cups do you need? Choose a coffee maker with a similar capacity. For longevity, it should be made of durable materials. A machine that fits all the above criteria and also your pocket. That is the kind of coffee machine you are looking for.
TOP PICK
Ninja CM401 Specialty Coffee Maker
All Rounder
A panel set with buttons makes things easy. Though it makes the work complicated too.CHECK LATEST PRICE
Best SCAA Certified Coffee Makers
1. Technivorm Moccamaster 59616 KBG Coffee Brewer
Technivorm Moccamaster is a handmade coffee machine. In an elegant rectangular set-up. It comes in 25 different colors for you to choose from. The unique design is matched with great quality. It is made up of metal and European quality plastic. That is 100% recyclable. With a capacity of 1.25 liters. You can easily get 10 cups straight away. Most importantly, in as little as 6 mins. With only 2 buttons to care for. The machine is easy to use.
The mechanism is also worth noting. The temperature always remains between 196-205 degrees Fahrenheit. A stable temperature ensures perfect bloom. Hence, a delicious cup. Your cup achieves a 15-20% amount of total dissolved solids (TDS). Thus giving you an even extraction. It makes coffee through the drip-style process.
When you have a perfect cup, you want to savor it slowly. For that, the unique hot plate technology helps you. The temperature of this plate remains between 175-185 degrees Fahrenheit. Hence, preserving the coffee flavor. So you sip your hot cup while multitasking.
Because of its meticulous design, it has gained several certifications. Specialty Coffee Association (SCAA) has certified it amongst certified home brewers. Even the European Coffee brewing center(ECBC), Oslo has approved the machine. Why not, when it is BPA, BPS and BPF free. That is why it will cost you more than others.
Pros
- Hand-made machine
- Elegant design
- Approved by SCAA and ECBC
Cons
- On an expensive side
- Some issues with the outlet arm
Verdict: Technivorm Moccamaster Coffee Brewer is the best SCAA approved coffee maker. You can swear on its quality. The design is breathtaking. You can get 10 cups of coffee in one go. Your coffee would taste good and stay hot for long. You will get a good 5-year warranty. So, what are you waiting for? You need to buy this if you are willing to shell out more, for a quality product.
2. Ninja Specialty Fold-Away Frother Coffee Maker
This SCAA certified home brewer will surprise you. It has a simple but compact design. You can have a glass carafe or a thermal carafe version. Whichever you like. It can make anything from one to over 10 cups of coffee. So whether you are partying with friends. Or you want to have a solitary cup. The machine is at your service.
A panel set with buttons makes things easy. Though it makes the work complicated too. If you hate too many buttons. You might rethink before buying it. These let you choose between 6 brew sizes. From a cup to a travel mug to a carafe. To get a cup, you need to add water to the dome-shaped reservoir. Then some coffee to the filter. Upon which you can choose your desired size.
If you are in the mood for cappuccino or latte. You have that option too. The machine comes with a foldable milk frother. It is light and easy to use. While the coffee gets brewed, you can froth your milk simultaneously. You will be in love with the silky smooth froth. It can also serve you flavorful iced lattes. Amongst all other machines mentioned here, this one will serve a maximum variety of drinks. So if that is what you seek. It is a great choice.
If you want a fresh brew in the morning. But you don’t have the necessary time. You can always set a timer with the machine. As a result, you will be greeted by fresh coffee without investing your precious time. Other options on the machine include one-touch cleaning. Therefore, making the machine self-sufficient.
Pros
- SCAA certified
- Compact design
- Comes with a milk frother
Cons
- Reviews suggest problems with the water reservoir
- Complaints of a watery brew
Verdict: The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker stands true to its name. If you are in the market for quality plus taste. You want things pre-set. The Ninja coffee machine is for you. The price of the coffee machine is worth it. Whether you want 1 or 10 cups, you can have it all. The design and mechanism make it one of the best multi-utility SCAA certified home brewers.
3. BUNN HB Heat N Brew Programmable Coffee Maker
A whole lot of happy consumers recommend the Bunn HB Heat N Brew Programmable Coffee Maker. Manufactured by Bunn, the leader coffee machine maker in America. It began as a commercial coffee maker. But has now entered the race for home-style machines.
It has a compact design. Hence, it can be stored elsewhere when not in use. Thus saving some counter space for you. Also, if you are tired of plastic-looking coffee machines. Then you will be delighted. Because this one is made of stainless steel. Though built with a minimalist design. But the spout comes with a unique look. It will surely grab your attention.
Whether you desire a single cup today. Or want a pot full tomorrow. It can make as many as 10 cups of coffee. However, there is one little problem. You have to wait for at least 10 mins. The mechanism is a bit different here. The machine works with heat and brew technology. So first it will heat the water. After that, it will start brewing your coffee. So the whole process is a bit long. You might have to invest more time here. But you do have a solution. The timer button is meant for your rescue. You can use it, to save at least some time.
One exclusive feature is the auto-warm plate. It turns on automatically while brewing. Stays on for 2 hours after the brew. So you can leave your coffee on the plate. Enjoy your delicious hot cup at your pace. Adding to it is the drip-free carafe. It is shatter-resistant. Delivers the cleanest pour in the market. That is the reason why SCAA put its faith in it. Making this coffee maker, SCAA certified.
Pros
- Made of stainless steel
- Low budget product
- SCAA approved
- Unique looking pour spout
Cons
- Takes a long time to brew
Verdict: BUNN HB Heat N Brew Programmable Coffee Maker belongs to the category of SCAA certified homebrewers, in your budget. It can make a decent 10 cups of coffee with utter elegance. It has some of the most unique features. However, the biggest problem is time. So, you must bear that in mind. Also, the time comes to your rescue. Altogether, if you choose a low priced but SCAA certified product, you have this one at your service.
4. Cuisinart CPO-850 Coffee Brewer
If you are a pour-over coffee fan. And you need an SCAA certified pour-over coffee machine. You can consider this one. Built with a stainless steel look. It is a 24-hour programmable machine. You can adjust it to auto-off, on and self-clean.
The machine gives you an edge with customization controls. If you like your coffee to be super hot. You can set a higher temperature. You can also choose between different coffee strengths. Whether you like mild, medium or bold. The machine lets you choose. The front panel carries buttons to adjust temperature and brew strength. This customization gives a sense of control. And I am sure you need maximum control when it comes to your coffee.
You can make up to 8 cups of coffee. For your assistance, the amount of water required per cup is etched on the machine. So you have control and help too. You can have two options in Carafe. Glass or thermal. However, thermal Carafe has better reviews.
This coffee maker has many interesting features. Interesting to note is the charcoal water filter. So if you don’t care about water clarity. The machine is smart enough to do so. It makes sure only clean water gets added to your coffee. The showerhead inside pre-wets the coffee grounds. As a result, the coffee grounds will bloom, giving you a sweet smell before you can get a taste.
Pros
- Pour-over style
- SCAA certified
- Customized brew strength
- Customized temperature strength
Cons
- Maximum coffee capacity is 8 cups
- Problem with the display along the years
Verdict: Cuisinart CPO-850 Coffee Brewer can serve as the best SCAA certified coffee maker in pour-over style. It lets you control how hot and how strong you want your coffee to be. It makes sure your coffee tastes great. So much so that it has a charcoal water filter. You can make a single or a tray full of 8 cups in this coffee maker.
5. Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer Coffee Maker
Every coffee lover has a unique personality. The makers of Breville are conscious of this fact. Therefore, they have given you several different versions of your drip coffee. Whether you like a fast or strong or iced or have your customized style. You can have it all with 6 options to choose from. With 1 touch of a button.
If you have your style, you can choose ‘My brew’ setting. It allows you to customize brew temperature, bloom time and flow. So whether you want a nutty or a fruity brew. You can set the machine in the desired setting. Use whatever coffee fits the customization. For the perfect cup of your choice.
You can even adjust the precise temperature for your coffee. The PID control system makes sure your machine stays within the desired temperature. The auto steep and release technology is also noteworthy. It holds the water in contact with coffee when small cup volumes are being brewed.
Two types of filter baskets come along with the machine. You have a flat bottom and a cone filter basket.
The most breathtaking feature is yet to be disclosed. Breville’s coffee maker is the world’s first drip-maker than makeover 60-ounce of coffee. This coffee maker has achieved SCAA certification. It has a ‘gold’ option. Here the brewer makes you a cup that meets the SCAA set standards. So you will surely have a taste of quality.
Pros
- SCAA certified
- Pre-set options to choose from
- Temperature control system
Cons
- The water reservoir is not that easy to clean
Verdict: In a nutshell, the Breville precision brewer takes much pain to give you a perfect brew. It has some excellent technology features. It is easy to clean and maintain. It is a great choice amongst other SCAA certified home brewers. Unlike others, it gives you the option of self-brewing. With maximum customization it lets you be in control. And can make as many as 60 ounces.
Buying Guide: What to look for in an SCAA certified coffee maker?
Look for SCAA approval tags
If you want to buy a pre-tested product. You must lookout for the SCAA tag on the coffee machine. It would mean that 50% of your work is done. The SCAA tested products have a standard brew time. The temperature is also set to create perfect extraction. Without any fear of your coffee being burnt. The brew delivered is sanctioned through SCAA. The SCAA golden cup recommendation is a key criterion for this.
So if a coffee machine contains an SCAA tag, the quality is assured. You can have blind faith in the output. You just need to match other important criteria.
Durability
If a machine is good but doesn’t last long. It is of no use to you. You would not care to love it for one day. And part ways as time goes by. For that, you need to be careful about its built. A good coffee brewer would be strong in its built. It will be made up of steel or good quality plastic.
Always look for vulnerable parts. Sometimes the water reservoir is delicate. The filters are not thick enough. The carafe is susceptible to easy breakage. Even the whole machine can stop working sometimes. So the mechanism and the other spare parts. Everything needs to be carefully noticed.
Maintenance
For a coffee maker to last long, maintenance is necessary. But you are already too busy. A machine that requires higher maintenance would be a burden. You can’t invest more time cleaning after. A good coffee machine would be one that is easy to maintain. Easy to clean. Easy to care for.
You might have experienced a weird tasting coffee, from your machine. This can be a result of deposits in the water reservoir. These calcium and magnesium deposits from water, settle over time. That is why you need to get descaling of your coffee machine. Some machines already have a provision for this. They come with self-cleaning options. All you need is to press the button. Some of them even have an indicator that will remind you to clean your machine.
If you are going for glass-bodied machines. They will require more cleaning. They can show signs of dirt. While the steel or plastic bodied are better. They can be cleaned at one swipe. And even if left dirty. It could be cleaned later.
Ease of use
Coffee machines can make lives simple. But sometimes it makes life difficult too. Especially if it is a multi-paneled machine. One with lots of buttons here and there. Lots of work needs to be done. For that one sweet cup of coffee. On a brighter side, these machines give you maximum customization. So that your cup tastes exactly like you want to.
On the other hand, we have fully automatic, one-touch. These types need little or no information, whatsoever. They have fewer buttons. Fewer panels to clean or care for. However, these coffee makers don’t give you a cup, your way. It has pre-set directions. So if you need a stronger or a lighter cup, you can’t help it.
Ease of use also means easily understandable controls. The workings should be clear enough.
Capacity
You might want to have a solitary cup. Or else, have a coffee ritual with your family or friends. You need a coffee machine with a decent capacity. One that matches your needs. Coffee machines can make anywhere from one to 10 cups. They will have a large water reservoir for a one-time fill. So whether you choose one cup or 10, it is up to you. One with up to 8 cup capacity is a decent size. You may buy one with a smaller capacity if you don’t require a larger one.
Types of brew
You may want an iced coffee, but your machine doesn’t have a feature. Most of these coffee machines are settled upon hot coffee. You might have up to 8 cups but only hot versions. However, you do have other options. If you like lattes, cappuccino’s you can opt for one with milk frother. Many of these have options for an iced brew. So you can add some ice and some cream and enjoy your cup.
The time-taken to brew
We want everything quick. Even when it comes to coffee. Coffee machines have different mechanisms to brew. Some take a long time while others are quick.
Pour over style coffee machines often take more time to brew. But they offer rich flavor and texture. Drip-style coffee takes much less time. You can get a cup much faster. However, many consumers complain about a watery brew. Though this is not always the case. So, choose a coffee style according to your taste and time.
Technology-wise
New technologies keep on being invented. Why not buy a technology-ninja for your coffee? Some machines come with self-cleaning options. So all you need is to switch it on and you are done. There are some with optimum temperature control. It ensures your coffee is brewed at a standard temperature. Many of these also have hot plates. These can keep your coffee warm. While you savor the taste slowly.
The customized timer feature is everybody’s favorite. It lets you wake to the smell of coffee. So you have a fresh brew without wasting any time.
Looks or design
What is attractive to you, might not be for me. So you get several different designs and look for coffee machines. You might love a sleek or bulky design. These may be rectangular or with soft round edges. Tall or short. Made of plastic or shiny aluminum. Whatever matches your kitchen, you can pick that up.
In terms of panels, you have two options. Some machines come with a digital interface. So you like soft-touch buttons. However, these often bear problems in the long run. Some consumers have suffered blurring too. The other option buttons on the panels. These are much easier to use. Though some of you don’t like the way they look. So it is all a matter of looks vs functionality.
Apart from aesthetics, a good design will ensure great functionality. Sleek and modest designs are handier. These are easy to keep in a corner. And use as and when required.
Budget
You can’t compromise on your coffee. But you can’t even burn a hole in your pocket. You might fall in love with some of these machines. Sometimes, they have features you don’t even require. So don’t fall for anything on the face of it.
A good coffee machine is one that fits your pocket. Stands beneficial to your requirements. And makes you happy every time you brew a cup. The whole idea of a home-style machine was saving time and money. If you get one that makes an expensive cup. You need to work it out, by yourself. Then you would rather visit a cafe than buy one.
Our prized possession would be, Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker. It is an all arounder, without a doubt. It is durable, yet elegant. You have up to 6 different brew sizes to choose from. Thanks to the foldable milk frother. The machine even lets you have your latte’s. It is smart enough to do self-cleaning. The alarm set-up helps save you some time.
Altogether, it is the best SCAA approved coffee maker. If you can forgive the machine for having too many buttons. And can overlook some minor defaults. Then this is the coffee maker we recommend for you.
