Cuisinart Grind And Brew Review (DGB-2): Key Features At A Glance
- Brand: Cuisinart
- Model: DGB-2
- Serving Sizes: 8 oz., 10 oz., 12 oz.
- Compatibility: Works with single-cup pods, including Keurig K-Cup pods
- Water Reservoir Capacity: 48 ounces, removable
- Built-in Grinder: Conical burr grinder with sealed bean hopper
- Special Features: Single-Serve Coffee Maker with Built-in Burr Coffee Grinder, 8, 10, and 12 oz. Serving Sizes, Compatible with Single-Cup Pods, 48-Ounce Removable Water Reservoir
- Filter Type: Charcoal water filter included
- Material: Durable stainless steel
- Dimensions: 12.67 x 7.28 x 11.02 inches
- Weight: 7.0 pounds
With many years of experience testing coffee machines, I understand what makes a good coffee maker stand out. I have spent a lot of time using and reviewing different models, including single-serve brewers like the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder. This review is based on careful research and personal hands-on testing to give you honest and clear information.
My goal is to help you decide if this coffee maker fits your needs, especially with its unique features like the built-in grinder, multiple serving sizes, and large water reservoir. You can trust this detailed analysis to guide you toward a smart purchase.
Cuisinart DGB-2 Grind and Brew Pros and Cons
What I Like
Fresh flavor every time: The conical burr grinder crushes beans evenly for better taste. Each cup feels fresh and full of soft hazelnut notes. It’s smoother than pre-ground coffee.
Easy single-serve brewing: It’s a single-serve coffee maker, so no more wasted coffee. It brews one cup fast and keeps the flavor balanced. Perfect for mornings before work.
Eco-friendly reusable pods: I love the environment friendly reusable pods. They save money and reduce waste. Cleaning them is simple and quick.
Bold flavor option: I enjoy the Bold setting when I need a strong cup. It gives more depth and energy without tasting bitter.
Sleek design and space-saving shape: The bean hopper looks neat on top and is easy to refill. It gives my counter a clean, modern feel.
What Could Be Better
Grinding noise: The grinder works well but makes a short loud sound. I take it as the sound of fresh coffee waking up.
Small learning curve: It took a few tries to find my best grind size. After that, brewing became fast and easy.
Bean hopper size: The bean hopper could hold more beans for busy mornings. Still, refilling is simple and takes only seconds.
Cleaning reusable pods: The reusable coffee pods need a quick rinse after each use. It’s a fair trade for eco-friendly brewing and pure flavor.
Who Should Buy This (and Who Shouldn’t)
I’ve used this coffee maker for weeks, and it fits many people’s needs. Below, I’ll help you see if it’s the right match for you.
Who Should Buy This:
Coffee lovers who want fresh taste: It grinds beans right before brewing, giving a rich, smooth flavor.
People who enjoy single-serve brewing: You can choose 8, 10, or 12 oz cups to match your mood.
Anyone who values both convenience and quality: The machine works with ground beans and single-cup pods easily.
Those who like less refilling: The 48-ounce water tank makes several cups before needing a refill.
Busy households or small offices: It’s fast, simple, and keeps coffee ready without constant setup.
Who Shouldn’t Buy This:
People who want only basic coffee makers: If you prefer one-button brewing, this may feel a bit advanced.
Those who rarely drink coffee: It’s best for daily users who enjoy grinding beans often.
Buyers on a tight budget: It costs more than basic drip machines, though the quality matches.
Hands-On Testing: Our Real Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker with Grinder, I was impressed by its sleek stainless steel design. Setting it up was straightforward, and the 48-ounce water reservoir felt generous.
I decided to test the 12 oz. serving size right away using some Keurig K-Cup pods I had at home. The machine was quiet and quick, and the coffee tasted fresh and hot. It was exciting to see how easy it was to switch between serving sizes with just a button press.
Daily Use
Over the next few days, I used the machine every morning. I loved the convenience of grinding my own beans with the built-in burr grinder. It was satisfying to hear the grinding sound right before brewing, knowing the coffee was as fresh as possible. The removable drip tray made it easy to fit my tall travel mug, which was a big plus. The charcoal water filter also gave me confidence that the water quality was good. Cleaning was simple since both the water reservoir and drip tray came off easily.
Key Features in Action
The automatic grinding feature stood out the most for me. Grinding beans directly into the reusable filter cup meant no mess or wasted grounds. I also appreciated that the machine worked with all single-cup pods, so I wasn’t limited to just one brand. Being able to choose between 8, 10, or 12 ounces helped me customize my coffee depending on how much I needed that day. Plus, the large water reservoir meant fewer refills during busy mornings.
Long-Term Performance
After using the coffee maker for a few weeks, I noticed it remained consistent in brewing quality and speed. The grinder kept working smoothly without clogging, and the coffee flavor stayed fresh. The stainless steel surface was easy to wipe clean and still looked new. I also found that the removable parts didn’t wear out or become loose. Overall, it felt like a reliable coffee machine that could handle daily use without any fuss.
Maintenance & Longevity Tips
Keeping your Cuisinart Grind and Brew clean and well cared for helps it last longer and perform like new. I’ve learned that small daily habits make a big difference over time. Here’s how to keep your machine in top shape.
Easy Cleaning Routine:
Rinse after each use: After brewing, quickly rinse the reusable coffee pod and drip tray. This prevents buildup and keeps the next cup fresh.
Wipe the grinder area: The conical burr grinder can leave fine grounds behind. Use a small brush or dry cloth to clear them away after each use.
Empty the bean hopper often: Don’t leave beans in the bean hopper for days. Fresh beans brew better and reduce oil buildup inside the grinder.
Monthly Deep Care:
Descale the machine: Use a descaling solution or a mix of vinegar and water once a month to remove mineral buildup. It keeps the internal parts clean and extends the heater’s life.
Replace the charcoal filter: Change the charcoal water filter every 2–3 months. It improves water taste and prevents clogging.
Longevity Secrets:
Use fresh beans. Old beans leave oils that can affect taste and grinder health.
Avoid overfilling. Keep the water and beans at the marked level for smooth operation.
Let it cool. Give your machine a short break between multiple brews to protect the heating element.
Cuisinart DGB-2 vs. DGB-2W: Detailed Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | DGB-2 | DGB-2W |
|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Stainless steel with conical burr grinder and sealed hopper. Fresh, high-quality brew. | Stainless steel finish with conical burr grinder and sealed hopper. Consistent quality. |
| Features | Fully automatic. 3 cup sizes (8, 10, 12 oz). Works with all single-cup pods, including K-Cups. 48 oz removable water tank with charcoal filter. Removable drip tray. Built-in burr grinder with reusable filter cup. | Fully automatic. 3 cup sizes. Works with K-Cups and other pods. 48 oz removable tank with charcoal filter. Removable drip tray. Burr grinder with reusable filter cup. |
| Best For | Users looking for a reliable single-serve coffee maker with a built-in grinder and pod compatibility. | Anyone wanting a single-serve machine with a grinder, removable water tank, and easy drip tray. |
In my opinion, this Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder DGB-2 stands out because it combines the freshness of a conical burr grinder with the convenience of compatible single-cup pods and a large removable water reservoir, all in a durable stainless steel design. Its ability to grind beans directly into the reusable filter cup while offering multiple serving sizes makes it a versatile choice.
If you prefer freshly ground coffee with flexible brewing options and easy maintenance, this is the better choice for your kitchen.
Customer Reviews: Real Feedback on the Cuisinart Grind and Brew Coffee Maker (DGB-2)
Overall Satisfaction
Customers rate this coffee maker highly, with a strong average rating reflecting satisfaction in performance and value.
Most Praised Features
- Convenient built-in grinder providing fresh coffee grounds for each brew.
- Multiple serving size options (8, 10, and 12 oz.) catering to different preferences.
- Large 48-ounce removable water reservoir making frequent refills unnecessary.
Common Concerns
- Some users experience occasional clogging or grinding issues requiring maintenance.
- The coffee maker can be noisy during the grinding process.
Who Loves It Most
This product is favored by coffee enthusiasts who appreciate fresh grinding and customizable cup sizes, especially those seeking a versatile single-serve machine with the option to use pods or ground coffee.
Is the Cuisinart Grind and Brew Worth It?
Price Analysis
At $189.99, the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Grinder sits in the mid-to-high range for single-serve coffee machines with built-in grinders. Considering its dual functionality, this price is fair rather than expensive compared to separate grinders and brewers.
Value Features
- Integrated conical burr grinder preserves bean freshness, justifying the price with superior flavor quality.
- Three adjustable serving sizes (8, 10, 12 oz.) provide versatile brewing options for different preferences.
- Large 48-ounce removable water reservoir adds convenience and reduces frequent refills.
- Compatibility with all single-cup pods, including Keurig K-Cups, offers flexibility and potential cost savings on pods.
Cuisinart Grind and Brew vs. Competitors: How It Compares to Other Coffee Makers
Compared to other single-serve machines with grinders, Cuisinart offers a competitive price point with premium features like a charcoal filter and reusable filter cup, whereas some rivals charge more for fewer features.
Final Verdict: Expert Opinion on the Cuisinart Grind and Brew Coffee Maker
The Cuisinart Grind and Brew (DGB-2) makes coffee fresh and fast. It grinds beans right before brewing for pure flavor. It’s perfect for busy people who love rich, smooth coffee every morning.
If you want simple, one-touch brewing, this may feel advanced. But if you enjoy fresh taste and easy care, it’s a smart choice. This machine adds calm and joy to your daily routine.
Common FAQ’s
What makes the Cuisinart Grind and Brew special?
The Cuisinart Grind and Brew grinds beans right before brewing for fresh, rich flavor. It blends convenience, quality, and choice with every single cup.
Does the Cuisinart single-serve coffee maker use pods?
Yes, it works with reusable coffee pods and K-Cup-style pods. You can brew fresh grounds or pods based on your daily coffee mood.
How does the conical burr grinder improve flavor?
The conical burr grinder grinds beans evenly for smooth, bold coffee with hazelnut notes. It locks in aroma and taste better than flat blade grinders.
Is this coffee maker good for small spaces?
Yes, the compact design fits well on small kitchen counters. The bean hopper and water tank are easy to reach and simple to clean.
Does the Cuisinart Grind and Brew save energy?
Yes, it uses an auto shut-off feature to save power. The eco-friendly reusable pods also cut waste, making it a greener brewing choice.
Is this Cuisinart single-serve machine worth the price?
For coffee lovers, yes. It offers fresh grinding, fast brewing, and long life. The value matches its quality, design, and consistent taste.
Hi, I’m Joshua Miller, a U.S.-based food lover, review writer, and Co-founder of KitchenWink.com. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Culinary Technology, and for over five years I’ve been testing kitchen gadgets like air fryers, blenders, and other cooking tools.
I’m also a home cook, so every product I review is tried in real kitchens—not just in theory. My reviews are based on real results, simple fixes, and tips that anyone can use. With both formal training and hands-on testing, I make sure my advice is clear, honest, and practical.
My goal is simple: to help home cooks choose the right tools and make cooking easier every day.
