The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) has set the industry standard for coffee makers that promise not just a cup of coffee but a symphony of flavors and aromas.
The SCAA certification signifies that a coffee maker meets stringent standards for temperature control, water distribution, and extraction time, all of which contribute to a consistently excellent brew.
In essence, the SCAA certification is the golden seal of approval.
So, In this post, we’ll pick our top 10 SCAA-certified coffee makers that can transform your morning ritual into a true coffee experience.
10 Best SCAA Certified Coffee Makers: At A Glance
- Technivorm Moccamaster: Best Overall
- OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker: Runner-Up
- Cuisinart Pure Precision CPO-850 Coffee Brewer: Best Value For Money
- Bonavita BV1900TS 8 Cup Coffee Maker: Best Budget Option
- Breville BDC450BSS Precision Brewer: Best For Precision
- Brim 8 Cup Pour-Over Coffee Maker: Best For Pour-Over
- Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker: Best For Versatility
- Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker: Best For Connectivity
- Ratio Six Coffee Maker: Best-Looking Design
- Braun KF9170SI MultiServe Coffee Machine: Best For Ease Of Use
1. Technivorm Moccamaster: Best Overall
At the very top of our list, we have the Technivorm Moccamaster, and it’s no surprise why.
This classic coffee maker has earned its spot as our #1 choice for the best SCAA-certified coffee maker.
With a timeless design harking back to its 1960s origins, the Technivorm Moccamaster is a true modern classic.
If you’re someone who holds your coffee to high standards and is willing to invest in a coffee maker that’s built to last, this is your go-to choice.
In simple terms, the Technivorm Moccamaster consistently brews the best cup of coffee.
It’s been around since 1968 and is still proudly handmade in the Netherlands using top-notch materials.
This no-frills coffee maker is straightforward to clean, and spare parts are both accessible and affordable.
Operating it is a breeze, with just a basic on/off switch at the base.
You can adjust the flow speed for a full jug or a half jug, and it even mimics manual pouring to let your coffee grounds bloom.
While it’s not programmable, the Technivorm Moccamaster is user-friendly and allows you to pause the brewing process for a quick, cheeky cup of coffee.
There are different models available, but they all share the same eco-friendly ethos.
The Moccamaster boasts sturdy aluminum housing and a copper heating element that rapidly heats water to the ideal temperature, ranging between 196 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit, meeting SCAA certification requirements.
The rectangular metal showerhead with 9 outlets ensures consistent temperature throughout the extraction process.
The “T” in the name, means the model comes with a thermal carafe that keeps your coffee hot for up to an hour.
The carafe includes a travel lid, making it more portable and heat-preserving.
The coffee brewed by the Moccamaster is not only delicious but also reliable, backed by a 5-year warranty.
While it may be a bit more expensive than your average coffee maker, it’s far from average itself.
This premium-quality coffee maker has set the standard for the industry over the past five decades.
Now, let’s talk about the downsides.
First, as mentioned earlier, it’s not the most budget-friendly option, but it’s a case of “you get what you pay for.”
Secondly, the water reservoir isn’t removable, which can be a minor inconvenience for some.
Nonetheless, it’s an excellent coffee maker that brews great coffee, sure to delight the majority of coffee enthusiasts.
Pros
- Timeless design with durable, high-quality materials
- User-friendly operation and easy-to-clean
- Consistent water temperature and brewing performance
- Delicious, reliable coffee results
- 5-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- Higher price point
- Non-removable water reservoir
2. OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker: Runner-Up
Originally known as the OXO On Barista Brain, this coffee maker was crafted with the mission of turning you into your very own barista, capable of crafting top-notch brews.
What sets it apart is its focus on control and precision, making it a high-quality machine that pays attention to 3 key elements: brew time, water temperature, and volume.
The OXO Brew ensures these vital factors are perfectly balanced for an exceptional cup of joe.
This coffee maker features a rainmaker showerhead that perfectly distributes water evenly over the grounds.
With a clever microprocessor, it administers a pulse brew, replicating the finesse of manual pouring to extract exquisite flavors.
Your coffee’s temperature is perfectly regulated and maintained within the ideal coffee range of 197.6-204.8°F throughout the entire brewing process.
Moreover, it includes a double-wall stainless steel thermal carafe designed to keep your coffee steaming hot.
Whether you’re brewing a couple of cups or a full pot, the cone-shaped brew basket ensures maximum flavor extraction.
A handy 60-minute freshness timer begins once the brewing is complete, allowing you to monitor how long your coffee has been sitting.
After an hour, it shuts off automatically, but rest assured, the insulated carafe retains the warmth.
The OXO Brew Coffee Maker offers straightforward controls with a simple digital display and just one dial on the front.
You choose the number of cups you desire, and the machine takes care of the rest.
It also operates quietly, can be programmed for your convenience, and boasts a stylish design with its sleek stainless steel appearance and a transparent water reservoir.
Now, let’s discuss the potential downsides.
Carafe cleaning may pose a minor challenge because it has a relatively small opening.
Furthermore, the coffee maker is on the bulkier side, so if your kitchen space is limited, you might want to consider this factor.
In summary, if your primary concern is savoring superb coffee and you’re willing to overlook these minor inconveniences, the OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker will undoubtedly satisfy your coffee cravings.
It’s a workhorse when it comes to brewing, and it doesn’t compromise on style.
Pros
- Precise control of brew time, temperature, and volume
- Pulse brew for exceptional flavor extraction
- Double-wall stainless steel thermal carafe keeps coffee hot
- Quiet and programmable for added convenience
- Stylish stainless steel design with a transparent water reservoir
Cons
- Challenging carafe cleaning due to small opening
- The bulky design may not suit kitchens with limited space
3. Cuisinart Pure Precision CPO-850 Coffee Brewer: Best Value For Money
The Cuisinart Pure Precision CPO-850 Coffee Brewer is a coffee maker that takes brewing to the next level for a delicious coffee experience.
It’s likely the best Cuisinart coffee maker you’ll find, and its SCAA certification is well-deserved.
This coffee maker combines precision with the convenience of automation.
While it handles the brewing process entirely, you still get to tweak your brew’s strength and water temperature, giving you control over your morning ritual.
Imagine waking up to your favorite cup of joe, perfectly brewed, simply by programming it within a 24-hour window.
With the programmable timer accessible from the Cuisinart CPO-850 control panel, you can set a start time, adjust the auto shut-off, and initiate the cleaning cycle.
The CPO-850 model includes an 8-cup thermal carafe, ideal for keeping your coffee hot without the worry of a hotplate.
But if you prefer the classic hotplate, consider the PurePrecision CPO-800 with a glass carafe, which also boasts SCAA certification.
Customization is key with the Cuisinart CPO 850.
It offers options for mild, medium, or bold coffee, controlling the water flow to affect extraction speed.
Plus, there’s an extra-hot feature for those who like their coffee piping hot.
This coffee maker’s practical features include a brew pause option for that quick, drip-free cup mid-cycle.
It comes with a charcoal water filter, a laser-etched stainless steel permanent filter, and a starter pack of #4 paper filters.
Temperature and strength settings allow you to tailor each cup, and the unique laser-etched stainless steel filter enhances the coffee experience by extracting more flavor.
Not to forget, it includes a self-cleaning mode for easy maintenance.
In sum, the Cuisinart Pure Precision CPO-850 Coffee Brewer is user-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and consistently delivers a great batch of coffee once you’ve fine-tuned your preferences.
However, it doesn’t clinch a higher ranking due to concerns about its durability.
Some units, unfortunately, have a reputation for screen fragility and a less-than-ideal lifespan, with reports of issues cropping up in under a year.
Pros
- Programmable timer for a hassle-free morning coffee
- Comes with a thermal carafe
- Customizable brew strength and temperature
- Extra-hot feature for piping hot coffee
- Brew pause function for on-the-go cups
- Includes water filter, stainless steel permanent filter, and paper filters
Cons
- Durability concerns, especially with the screen
- Inconsistent temperature, resulting in sour or bitter coffee for some users
4. Bonavita BV1900TS 8 Cup Coffee Maker: Best Budget Option
The Bonavita BV1900TS is a straightforward, one-touch pour-over brewer with an SCA certification.
This little gem ensures you get a consistent and hassle-free cup of coffee, all without breaking the bank.
Operating this coffee maker is a breeze; just an on/off switch at the base kicks off the brewing process.
Despite its compact design, it can whip up a full carafe of coffee in about 6 minutes.
The high-quality stainless steel carafe maintains the warmth of your brew for up to 2 hours.
Under the hood, a robust 1500-watt heater keeps things in check, maintaining an optimal brewing temperature within the range of 195°-205°F (91°-96°C).
The clever showerhead design evenly saturates your coffee grounds, and there’s even an optional pre-infusion mode to prep freshly roasted grounds by allowing degassing before brewing.
The larger showerhead and filter basket work in harmony, ensuring uniform flavor extraction.
It’s a clever setup that minimizes heat loss but makes it essential to handle the carafe and basket with care when removing them after brewing.
Keeping it clean is a breeze too, with parts like the showerhead, filter basket, and carafe lid being removable, dishwasher-safe, and BPA-free.
However, do note that this model isn’t programmable.
If you’re looking for that feature, consider checking out the Bonavita BV1900TD, which offers the same brewing excellence with the added convenience of setting an auto-start time.
All in all, if you’re on the hunt for an affordable SCAA-certified coffee maker, the Bonavita BV1900TS is a reliable choice that won’t disappoint.
Pros
- Simple one-touch operation
- Compact and quick brewing
- High-quality stainless steel carafe keeps coffee hot
- Precise heating and even saturation of coffee grounds
- Easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe, and BPA-free parts
Cons
- Not programmable (consider BV1900TD for that feature)
- Not the most stylish or elaborate design
5. Breville BDC450BSS Precision Brewer: Best For Precision
The Breville Precision Brewer is a drip coffee maker that takes the art of crafting filter coffee to the next level.
It’s the world’s very first 60 oz. drip coffee maker designed to brew craft filter coffee automatically, and it does so with precision.
What sets it apart is the Thermocoil heating system with PID Control, ensuring your coffee is nothing short of exceptional.
This system allows for precise digital control of temperature, flow rate, and contact time.
In simpler terms, it means your coffee turns out perfectly every time.
The Breville Precision Brewer offers six preset brewing modes, each catering to your coffee dreams: “gold,” “fast,” “strong,” “iced,” “cold brew,” and “my brew.”
The latter lets you recreate your favorite cup.
Now, these fantastic options do add to the price, so if you’re not keen on experimenting, it might not be the machine for you.
However, if you’re uncertain about settings, just kick off with the “Gold” brew preset.
It aligns with the Golden Cup standard and tweaks the machine’s settings to meet SCAA requirements.
Plus, it’s flexible, allowing you to fine-tune parameters like bloom time, brew temperature, and flow rate to match your flavor preferences and the specific coffee beans you’re using.
The machine includes both cone shape and flat-bottom filter baskets to bring out different flavors in your beans.
This 12-cup programmable coffeemaker is perfect if you don’t want to compromise between brewing a single cup and enjoying larger pots of coffee.
The Breville Precision coffee brewer even senses if you’re using a single cup or a carafe, adjusting settings accordingly.
And for those who prefer glass carafes, consider the Breville BDC400 Precision Brewer, another SCAA-certified option.
In terms of design, the Breville Precision Brewer is modern and clean, dressed in brushed stainless steel.
It’s easy to navigate with its large interface and knob/button selector, making menu options a breeze.
Now, the not-so-great parts: this machine comes at a price, nearly on par with the Technivorm Moccamaster.
It’s an investment. Plus, it leans on the noisier side, so if quiet brewing is your thing, you might want to consider that.
But all in all, the Breville Precision Brewer is for those who adore the nuanced flavors of a pour-over coffee but crave the convenience of a machine.
It’s all about making your coffee experience precisely yours.
Pros
- Precise control over temperature, flow rate, and contact time
- Six preset brewing modes to match your coffee preferences
- Compatible with cone shape and flat bottom filter baskets
- Versatile for both single-cup and larger pots
- Modern brushed stainless steel design
- Intuitive interface for easy navigation
Cons
- Considerable price point
- Noisier than some coffee makers
6. Brim 8 Cup Pour-Over Coffee Maker: Best For Pour-Over
The Brim 8-Cup Pour-Over Coffee Maker is your ticket to crafting pour-over coffee right in your own kitchen, minus the fuss.
Designed with precision in mind, this coffee maker boasts a carefully thought-out shower head that employs pulse brewing to shower your coffee bed evenly, resulting in the perfect bloom.
Thanks to the permanent fine-mesh filter, essential coffee oils are allowed to pass through, giving you a taste of 8 cups of smooth, full-bodied coffee.
Maintaining a constant brew temperature between 197.6°F to 204.8°F ensures optimal extraction.
Plus, it keeps your coffee warm at an ideal 176°F without compromising on flavor.
The laser-etched permanent filter comes with a 66g capacity, designed to strike the perfect water-to-coffee ratio.
And you don’t have to worry about leaving it on; there’s a handy 30-minute auto shut-off feature.
However, as this is more about pour-over coffee than drip coffee, it’s best savored fresh for the finest taste.
Now, what makes the Brim stand out? While many machines claim to replicate the pour-over method, the Brim also mirrors the look.
Instead of the filter being perched atop the carafe, as you’d find with a Chemex, the Brim adopts a similar style.
The good news is that you don’t need to be a pour-over pro; the Brim’s operation is straightforward.
Fill it, switch it on, and let the machine work its magic.
The Brim 8-Cup Pour-Over Coffee Maker is user-friendly, sturdy, and a sleek addition to any kitchen.
As for the not-so-perfect parts: The brewing cycle might be a tad short if you’re making anything less than half a pot.
Some of us wish it sported a thermal carafe without a heater instead of a glass carafe with a hot plate.
Pros
- Craft pour-over coffee in the comfort of your kitchen
- Precise shower head and pulse brewing for optimal bloom
- Permanent fine-mesh filter for smooth, full-bodied coffee
- Consistent brew and ideal keep-warm temperature
- Easy-to-use operation with a Chemex-like aesthetic
- A sturdy and stylish addition to any kitchen
Cons
- Short brewing cycle for smaller batches
- Glass carafe with a hot plate instead of a thermal carafe
7. Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker: Best For Versatility
When it comes to family-friendly drip coffee makers, Ninja machines are top contenders, and it’s heartening to find one on the SCAA’s approved list.
Drip coffee makers are favored for their simplicity, but they’re often limited to a single coffee style.
Enter the Ninja Specialty, your solution for satisfying the entire family’s coffee cravings.
The Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker is a versatile kitchen companion.
It offers four coffee options: Classic, Rich, Specialty, and Iced.
For those who crave cafe-style drinks, the Specialty brew option is a game-changer.
It crafts a small but potent cup of coffee that can be served espresso-style or as a base for cappuccinos and lattes.
And if frothy delights are your thing, the built-in fold-away frother can transform hot or cold milk into a velvety froth.
With a resilient gold-tone permanent filter, this coffee maker can endure daily use.
But here’s the cherry on top: it brews in six different sizes, including travel mugs, single serves, half carafes, and full carafes.
The convenience doesn’t stop there.
It’s equipped with a removable water reservoir and a user-friendly control panel.
The Ninja CM401 has garnered praise for its intelligent design, easy maintenance, and trusty glass carafe.
If you’re in the mood for a twist on your daily brew and aren’t eager to tinker with coffee brewing parameters, the Ninja is your perfect companion.
It’s a programmable coffeemaker that lets you enjoy quality coffee without the need for pods, reducing plastic waste in the process.
But there are a couple of considerations to bear in mind.
First, this coffee maker leans on the bulkier side, so if kitchen space is tight, it might not be your ideal choice.
Second, while it offers a “rich” setting, be aware that it occasionally results in a burnt taste, something to keep in mind if you prefer milder brews.
All in all, the Ninja CM401 Specialty 10-Cup Coffee Maker is a fantastic pick for those who wish to create coffeehouse-style drinks in the comfort of their home.
If your household is a mix of coffee and tea lovers, consider exploring the Ninja Hot and Cold Brew System, also SCAA-certified.
Pros
- Versatile, offering four coffee options
- Specialty brew for cafe-style drinks
- Built-in frother for creamy froth
- Resilient gold-tone permanent filter
- Multiple brew sizes and user-friendly design
- Suitable for reducing plastic waste
Cons
- Bulkier design
- Occasional burnt taste on “rich” setting
8. Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker: Best For Connectivity
The Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is a high-end gem that’s earned its SCAA certification.
It’s the go-to choice for coffee enthusiasts who crave barista-quality coffee right in their own kitchen.
What sets this coffee maker apart is its smart capabilities.
You can connect it to Wi-Fi and take control using your smartphone, Alexa, or Google Assistant.
But even without Wi-Fi, you’re in for an impressive level of programmability.
Just like some other machines on our list, you can set the number of cups, water temperature, and brew strength.
What truly shines, though, is the ability to save these settings for later use, eliminating the need to adjust them every time.
Similar to the Breville coffee machine, it boasts a Gold preset to ensure your brew meets SCAA standards.
When it comes to brewing, the Coffee Maker doesn’t disappoint.
It blazes through its brewing cycle with remarkable speed, especially on the default Gold brew setting.
And it’s not just about user-friendliness; it crafts a splendid cup of coffee in record time, delivering a full carafe in less than 5 minutes.
The coffee stays hot thanks to the insulated thermal carafe, keeping your brew at the perfect temperature for hours.
With a sleek and modern design, copper accents, and three finish options (stainless steel, matte black, and matte white), it’s a showstopper on any kitchen counter.
The Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is an investment in coffee quality, delivering barista-level brews right at home.
Now, the elephant in the room is the price.
While it’s not the most expensive option on our list, it’s definitely up there.
So, the question to ponder is how much you actually need all those tech features.
Also, consider its size – it’s relatively large and may take a significant amount of counter space.
Pros
- SCAA-certified for barista-quality coffee
- Smart connectivity via Wi-Fi and app control
- Impressive level of programmability and settings storage
- Speedy brewing, under 5 minutes for a full carafe
- Insulated thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours
- Sleek and modern design with three finish options
Cons
- Considerable price point
- Relatively large, takes up counter space
9. Ratio Six Coffee Maker: Best-Looking Design
The Ratio Six Coffee Maker is a stunning piece of machinery that effortlessly combines form and function.
With its minimalist design, clean lines, and boutique feel, it’s not just eye candy; it’s what’s brewing inside that caught the SCAA’s attention.
The Ratio Six takes the elegance of the manual pour-over process and scales it up for larger brews while keeping things beautifully simple, just like its older sibling, the Ratio Eight.
What sets it apart is the more approachable price point without compromising quality.
Crafted with precision-formed stainless steel, borosilicate glass, and high-end BPA-free copolymers, this coffee maker is both durable and long-lasting.
Under the hood, you’ll find a powerful 1400 W heating element and a brewing capacity of 1.25 liters or 40 ounces.
It comes with a thermal carafe designed for flat-bottom basket coffee filters, but you can also use the Ratio Eight Thermal Carafe or Glass Carafe with a Chemex paper filter or stainless steel reusable Ratio Kone.
The Ratio Six shines as a small batch brewer, delivering a liter or more of coffee with the same finesse as the best manual pour-over techniques.
Thanks to its integrated bloom process, it consistently delivers high-quality coffee, making it a top pick for specialty coffee aficionados.
The showerhead-style water flow and optional bloom phase ensure even wetting of the coffee grounds, leading to full extraction and the most flavorful brew.
One standout feature is the “heat shield” around the showerhead, maintaining the brew water at an ideal 200 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the process.
Quality is where the Ratio Six excels, from the tight tolerance metal construction to the weight of the carafe, the meticulously crafted metal lid for the reservoir, the soft-touch button, glowing lights, and super quiet operation.
It’s all about that high-quality feel.
In terms of usability, it’s a breeze – just press a button to brew anything from an 8-ounce mug to a 40-ounce carafe.
However, if you’re all about customization and control over certain brewing variables, this might not be your best bet.
You can’t tweak the brewing temperature or coffee strength.
And then there’s the price tag.
It’s on the pricier side, landing in the same ballpark as the Moccamaster, which might leave you with a delightful but difficult choice between the two.
Pros
- Stunning minimalist design
- SCAA-worthy coffee quality
- Durable stainless steel and glass construction
- Integrated bloom process for top-notch coffee
- Heat shield maintains ideal brewing temperature
- High-quality craftsmanship and user-friendly
Cons
- Limited control over brewing variables
- Higher price point, competing with Moccamaster
10. Braun KF9170SI MultiServe Coffee Machine: Best For Ease Of Use
The Braun KF9170SI MultiServe Coffee Machine is a versatile coffee maker that caters to your coffee whims, whether you’re a solo sipper or brewing for a crowd.
What sets it apart is the MultiServe Dial System, offering a range of seven brewing sizes, from a single cup to a generous 10-cup carafe.
The BrewChoice Plus feature is where personalization comes into play.
It empowers you to fine-tune your coffee to your exact taste, spanning from mild to strong.
You can select from four strengths: Mild, Gold, Strong, or Over Ice.
The ExactBrew System is the wizard behind the curtain, ensuring that every cup is a masterpiece.
It calculates precise water flow, temperature, and speed to match your coffee preference with unwavering consistency.
Another nifty feature is the separate yet integrated water outlet, perfect for those moments when you’re craving hot tea, free from any lingering coffee flavor.
But what we truly adore is the Over Ice function.
It’s designed for crafting intense coffee with a full-bodied flavor, avoiding the dilution that often plagues iced coffee.
You simply fill your cup or carafe with ice, press the “Over Ice” button, select your brew strength (“bold,” “gold,” or “light”), and let the magic unfold.
Of course, it’s SCA certified, ensuring that each brew is an artful execution of great-tasting drip coffee.
To whip up a brew with the KF9170SI MultiServe, choose your desired brew size, select your preferred coffee strength, load up the filter basket, fill the water reservoir to match your brew amount, and hit that start button.
It even boasts an auto-on feature, so you can program it to wake up and brew your morning joe automatically.
Now, onto the caveats.
It’s not quite as fuss-free as a Keurig or Nespresso machine, so bear that in mind.
We do wish it came with a thermal carafe rather than the old-school glass pot.
Plus, there has been a fair share of customer complaints about technical issues and malfunctions with this coffee maker.
It’s something to be aware of as you make your decision.
Pros
- Versatile with seven brewing sizes
- Customizable coffee strength options
- ExactBrew System ensures consistency
- Over Ice function for full-bodied iced coffee
- SCA certification for great-tasting coffee
- Auto-on feature for morning convenience
Cons
- Not as simple as Keurig or Nespresso machines
- Glass pot instead of a thermal carafe
- Reports of technical faults and malfunctions
What Makes A Coffee Maker SCAA Certified?
A coffee maker earns SCAA certification by meeting stringent criteria set by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA).
These criteria encompass essential factors like the correct water temperature, brewing duration, and the capability to brew coffee that aligns with the SCA Golden Cup recommendations.
The SCA Certified Home Brewer Program specifically assesses coffee makers designed for home use to verify their compliance with these strict standards.
Achieving SCAA certification is no small feat, and only a select group of premium coffee machines have attained this prestigious recognition.
In essence, all SCA Certified Brewers adhere to the SCAA’s stringent criteria, which revolve around maintaining the right water temperature, brewing duration, and delivering coffee that meets the SCA Golden Cup standards.
What Is The Golden Cup Standard Of The SCAA?
The Golden Cup Standard, as defined by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), serves as a benchmark for assessing the quality of brewed coffee and identifying the pinnacle of a perfect cup.
According to the SCA’s criteria, coffee that attains the Golden Cup Standard must exhibit a brew strength, quantified by Total Dissolved Solids, falling within the range of 11.5 to 13.5 grams per liter.
This range corresponds to 1.15 to 1.35 percent on the SCA Brewing Control Chart, resulting from a solubles extraction yield of 18 to 22 percent.
The Golden Cup Standard establishes clear and precise guidelines for coffee brewing quality, relying on well-researched parameters refined over more than half a century.
This standard is widely embraced in the coffee industry to guarantee the production of the ultimate cup of coffee.
What Is SCA’s Golden Ratio For Coffee?
The SCA’s golden ratio for coffee refers to the coffee-to-water proportion necessary to meet the Golden Cup Standard, which is approximately 55 grams of coffee per liter of water (55 g/L) with an acceptable variance of ± 10%.
In simpler terms, this translates to a recommended ratio of around 1:18, where 55 grams of coffee are ideally used with 1000 milliliters (grams) of water.
It’s important to note that the precise golden ratio can vary based on factors such as the brewing method, coffee type, and personal taste preferences.
However, extensive consumer research conducted by the SCAA has indicated that a ratio falling within the range of 16:1 to 18:1 is the preferred choice for the majority of coffee enthusiasts.
Is An SCAA Coffee Maker Worth It?
The value of an SCAA coffee maker depends on your dedication to the art of coffee brewing.
If you consider yourself a true coffee aficionado, seeking the pinnacle of perfectly extracted and balanced coffee, then an SCAA-certified coffee maker is undoubtedly worth the investment.
These machines are at the top of their class, consistently delivering brews that will delight even the most discerning coffee lovers.
It’s also essential to note that SCAA-certified coffee makers often come with a higher price tag compared to budget options found in most supermarkets.
This cost disparity can be attributed to their use of superior materials and the specialized nature of the brands that produce them.
Conversely, if convenience and ease of use are your primary criteria, you’ll find that the SCAA-approved home brewers list is a valuable resource.
These coffee makers have earned the endorsement of the Specialty Coffee Association, guaranteeing superior quality and ensuring a better coffee experience.
Ultimately, the worth of an SCAA coffee maker aligns with your passion for coffee and your willingness to invest in the pursuit of coffee perfection.
Buyer’s Guide: Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an SCAA-Certified Coffee Maker
When you’re on the hunt for the best SCAA Certified coffee maker, you want to ensure that every cup you brew is a testament to quality and excellence.
The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) certification is a mark of distinction, ensuring your coffee maker adheres to rigorous standards for optimal brewing performance.
Here are the essential factors to consider when selecting the perfect SCAA Certified coffee maker:
Brewing Temperature
One of the fundamental factors for SCAA certification is the brewing temperature.
Coffee’s rich flavors and aromas fully emerge when brewed at the right temperature.
SCAA recommends a brewing temperature between 197.6°F to 204.8°F (92°C to 96°C).
A quality-certified coffee maker maintains this precise temperature throughout the brewing process, ensuring the optimal extraction of flavors from your coffee grounds.
Brewing Time
The time your coffee grounds spend in contact with hot water significantly impacts the flavor and strength of your brew.
SCAA Certified coffee makers adhere to the ideal brew time, typically around 4-8 minutes.
This allows for sufficient contact between the water and coffee grounds without over-extraction or under-extraction, resulting in a perfectly balanced cup of coffee.
Brew Volume
Consider the brew volume your coffee maker can handle.
SCAA Certified coffee makers often offer various brew size options to cater to your needs, whether you’re brewing a single cup or a full carafe.
Make sure the coffee maker can meet your daily demands without compromising the brewing quality.
Bloom Process
The blooming process is the initial wetting of coffee grounds, allowing them to degas and prepare for full extraction.
SCAA Certified coffee makers often incorporate a bloom phase to ensure that every particle of your coffee is evenly wetted before the brewing process begins.
This results in a smoother and more flavorful cup.
Customizable Settings
Some SCAA-certified coffee makers provide customization options for brew strength.
Look for machines that offer different strength settings, allowing you to tailor your coffee to your preference, whether you enjoy a mild morning brew or a robust afternoon pick-me-up.
Ease of Use
Consider the user-friendliness of the coffee maker.
SCAA Certified coffee makers come in various designs, from straightforward one-touch models to those with more advanced settings.
Choose one that aligns with your brewing habits and technical comfort.
Carafe Type
Determine whether you prefer a thermal carafe or a glass one.
Thermal carafes keep coffee hot without needing a hot plate, which can affect the taste.
Glass carafes, on the other hand, offer a more traditional look and feel.
Your choice depends on your taste and how you like to enjoy your coffee.
Durability and Reliability
Invest in a coffee maker known for its durability and reliability.
It should be well-constructed with high-quality materials.
Research user reviews to ensure that the coffee maker has a reputation for lasting over time without frequent technical issues.
Price Consideration
While SCAA Certified coffee makers are known for their quality, their price points can vary.
Consider your budget and weigh it against the features and performance you desire.
A higher price may reflect advanced customization and features.
Manufacturer Reputation
Finally, look into the reputation of the coffee maker’s manufacturer.
Trusted brands with a history of producing reliable coffee machines are more likely to deliver on their SCAA certification promises.
The Verdict: What Is The Best SCAA-Certified Coffee Maker?
In our quest for the best SCAA Certified coffee maker, the Technivorm Moccamaster stands tall as our top choice.
Its iconic design, outstanding performance, and reliability make it a modern classic for those who demand the finest cup of coffee.
The OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker claims the runner-up spot with its precision brewing and versatility.
It offers excellent control over brew time, water temperature, and volume, ensuring a superb coffee experience.
For the budget-conscious coffee lover, the Cuisinart Pure Precision CPO-850 Coffee Brewer secures its place as the Best Value-for-money option.
It doesn’t compromise on quality, delivering a rich coffee experience without breaking the bank.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between SCA and SCAA?
There is no difference between SCA and SCAA.
SCAA stands for Specialty Coffee Association of America, while SCA stands for Specialty Coffee Association.
The two organizations have merged to form a single entity, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).
The SCA represents thousands of coffee professionals, from producers to baristas all over the world, uniting them under one global organization.
How Long Do Coffee Makers Keep Their SCAA Certification?
The SCAA certification of coffee makers is valid for three years following successful testing.
After this time, the coffee maker must undergo the testing process again to maintain its certification.
Failure to retest or not passing the test results in the loss of SCAA certification status.
This ensures that certified coffee makers consistently meet the high-quality standards set by the SCAA.
Is There A Smart SCA-Certified Coffee Brewer?
Yes, there are smart SCA-certified coffee brewers available.
These coffee makers are equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and can be controlled using smartphone apps or voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
Smart coffee brewers offer additional convenience and customization options for brewing your coffee.
Is Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker SCAA certified?
Yes, the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker is SCAA-certified.
It has met the stringent requirements and standards of the Specialty Coffee Association of America, ensuring that it brews coffee to the highest quality.
What is the highest SCA coffee score?
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) uses a 100-point scoring system to evaluate coffee.
The highest possible score is 100 points, but in practice, very few coffees achieve a perfect score.
Coffees scoring 80 points or above are considered specialty-grade, indicating exceptional quality and characteristics.
What Are Coffee Solubles?
Coffee solubles are the soluble compounds in coffee grounds that dissolve in water during the brewing process, resulting in the flavors and aromas that make up your cup of coffee.
These solubles include compounds such as sugars, acids, lipids, and proteins.
The balance and extraction of these solubles play a crucial role in determining the flavor and quality of the coffee.
Achieving the right extraction of solubles is a key focus in the brewing process.
What Temperature Do Coffee Makers Brew At?
Most coffee makers brew at temperatures ranging from 195 to 205 degrees Fahrenheit (90 to 96 degrees Celsius).
This temperature range is considered ideal for coffee extraction, as it helps to maximize the flavor and aroma while avoiding bitterness or over-extraction.
However, the specific brewing temperature can vary depending on the coffee maker and its design.
High-quality coffee makers, especially those with SCAA certification, are designed to maintain precise and consistent brewing temperatures within this optimal range.
