Elite Gourmet EC812 Coffee Percolator Review Best 12-Cup Stainless Steel Brewer for Home Use

Description

Classic Design and Build Quality

The Elite Gourmet EC812 Electric Coffee Percolator immediately caught my attention with its sleek stainless steel finish. It feels sturdy but lightweight, which makes it easy to move around the kitchen. The cool-touch handle is a thoughtful addition, as I didn’t have to worry about burning my hand while pouring. Its compact size (10″ x 6.13″ x 13″) makes it perfect for my fairly cramped countertop space. I especially appreciated the 360° swivel base, which allowed for cord-free serving—a game changer when hosting guests. However, I did notice that the snap-on lid sometimes felt a bit too tight, requiring a little extra effort to secure it properly.

Performance and Brewing Experience

Using this coffee percolator was as straightforward as it gets. The manual operation mode and simple on/off switch made brewing a breeze. I was able to brew up to 12 cups of coffee quickly, with each cup taking less than a minute. That’s a serious time-saver, especially on busy mornings. The transparent brew progress knob was oddly satisfying to watch, offering a clear view of the brewing process. The keep-warm function worked seamlessly, ensuring my coffee stayed hot without becoming bitter. What stood out to me was its versatility; not only could it brew coffee, but it also heated water efficiently for tea, hot cocoa, and even oatmeal. However, I did wish it had a timer feature or automatic shut-off for added convenience.

Key Benefits

• The stainless steel permanent filter eliminates the need for disposable filters, making it an eco-friendly option.
• The non-slip feet provide added stability during use, reducing any risk of spills.
• Its cord wrap storage keeps the countertop tidy when the device is not in use.

Areas for Improvement

• The snap-on lid can be tricky to handle and may require more effort than expected.
• While effective, the keep-warm feature could result in a slightly diminished taste if the coffee is left for too long.
• The lack of a programmable timer or auto shut-off feature may be a drawback for some users.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning this coffee percolator was surprisingly easy. The stainless steel filter basket is dishwasher safe, and the inner components can be rinsed out effortlessly. I liked that there weren’t too many nooks and crannies where coffee residue could build up. However, the transparent brew knob does require a bit more attention to ensure it stays clear and free of stains.

Competing Products

Compared to similar devices like the Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Percolator, this product excels in its portability and convenience. The 360° swivel base and cool-touch handle are features that give it an edge. On the flip side, competitors like the Farberware Classic Yosemite Percolator offer a more traditional design and tend to have slightly better durability over time. That said, the Elite Gourmet EC812 stands out for its modern features and user-friendly design, which might appeal more to casual coffee drinkers.

Bang for the Buck

For what it offers, the price-to-quality ratio feels justifiable. The Elite Gourmet EC812 provides a balance of functionality and style, making it a worthy investment for those who enjoy freshly brewed coffee at home. While it doesn’t include all the bells and whistles of high-end models, its performance and versatility make it a solid choice for most households. However, if you’re someone who prioritizes advanced features like programmable timers, you might find better options elsewhere.

I can confidently say this percolator added a touch of charm to my kitchen routine. Its combination of design, performance, and practical features makes it a reliable companion for daily coffee brewing.

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