Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker: The Future of Brewing is Here

Introduction

As we explore the rich tapestry of coffee’s history, stretching from ancient Ethiopian plateaus to bustling modern cafes, it’s clear that coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Today, the tradition of brewing coffee continues to evolve with innovations like the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS Coffee Maker. This device encapsulates centuries of coffee culture in a modern form, offering coffee enthusiasts the convenience and control to brew artisanal coffee at home. Let’s delve into the historical journey of coffee and discover how contemporary brewing technologies like the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS are a testament to coffee’s enduring legacy.

Forget boring drip coffee makers. The future of brewing has arrived with the Hamilton Beach Smart 12 Cup Coffee Maker. This innovative coffee machine integrates seamlessly with Alexa and your smart home devices for a truly hands-free brew. Say goodbye to pushing buttons and programming timers. Now you can start the brew, customize strength, and turn it off completely with just your voice. Hamilton Beach has taken their excellent brewing technology and added exciting voice control features through the Alexa app and Echo devices. If you love the convenience of smart homes, this coffee maker is the perfect addition to your kitchen.

Overview

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker has all the essential features of a quality drip coffee machine but steps it up with Alexa voice command capabilities. You can control brewing and settings through the Alexa app or any Echo device like the Echo Dot. The setup is a breeze thanks to the Certified for Humans designation which ensures easy connectivity. This 12 cup coffee maker has a compact and sleek black and stainless steel design that looks great on any countertop. Convenient front-loading allows you to easily fill the water reservoir and add grounds. Programmable functions and adjustable brew strength provide customization for the perfect cup. And the automatic shutoff gives peace of mind if you ever forget to turn it off.

Key Features

This voice-controlled coffee maker is packed with functionality:

• Alexa Integration: Start brewing, stop brewing, and adjust settings completely hands-free using your voice and Alexa devices.

• App Control: Use the Alexa app to control the coffee maker from your smartphone, set schedules, and create routines.

• Adjustable Brew Strength: Customize the boldness of each brew with regular and bold strength options.

• Programmable Timer: Schedule auto brewing for your perfect wake-up time.

• Front-Fill Reservoir: The unique front-loading water reservoir makes filling easy and prevents spills.

• Automatic Shutoff: The coffee maker turns off automatically 2 hours after brewing for safety and peace of mind.

• Clean Reminders: The coffee maker displays alerts for cleaning to keep your brew tasting fresh.

• Certified for Humans: Hassle-free setup gets you connected quickly without any headaches.

Embracing Modern Coffee Culture with a Nod to History

As we reflect on the journey of coffee from ancient Ethiopian rituals to today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it’s clear that the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS is more than just a coffee maker; it is a modern tool that embodies the spirit of centuries of coffee history. By allowing for both K-Cup convenience and the richness of freshly ground coffee, this machine offers a way to explore and enjoy diverse coffee cultures with each cup brewed. Whether rekindling the past’s elaborate coffee ceremonies or rushing through a busy morning, this coffee maker ensures that the legacy of coffee is savored in every sip.

Thus, the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS does not just make coffee; it celebrates it, bringing the age-old tradition of coffee brewing into the 21st century with elegance and efficiency.

Design

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker has an understated, practical design fitting for most kitchen decors. The matte black plastic housing has stainless steel accents on the control panel, water reservoir cover and brew basket. With a footprint of just 8 x 13 inches, it has a nicely compact form.

The front-access water reservoir, swing-out filter basket and centered control panel offer convenient access without having to move the entire unit. The clear glass carafe has volume markings and an ergonomic handle.

Overall, the coffee maker has a utilitarian but handsome design suitable for daily use.

Brew Types:

Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker is a traditional drip coffee machine that brews by spraying hot water over grounds. It does not support K-cups or other single-serve pods. The reusable filter basket is compatible with any type of ground coffee.

Coffee Quality:

Reviewers praise the bold, robust flavor produced by the 12-cup glass carafe brewing system. The “Bold” setting can be used to increase coffee strength as desired.

Coffee Varieties and Their Histories

Coffee beans are predominantly of two types: Arabica and Robusta, each with its own unique history and cultural significance.

• Arabica: Originating from the highlands of Ethiopia, Arabica coffee is known for its smooth and complex flavor profiles. It accounts for about 60-70% of the world’s coffee production. Arabica beans are typically grown at high altitudes in areas with abundant rainfall and ample shade. This coffee variety is often associated with high-quality, artisan coffee experiences and is highly favored for its nuanced flavor notes ranging from fruity to floral.

• Robusta: This hardier variety of coffee bean thrives at lower altitudes and yields a higher caffeine content, which contributes to its stronger, more robust flavor. Originating from central and western sub-Saharan Africa, Robusta is often used in espresso blends because of its rich crema and full-bodied flavor. It is generally less expensive and more disease-resistant than Arabica.

Understanding these coffee types is crucial for appreciating the versatility of machines like the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS, which can adeptly handle both varieties, allowing coffee enthusiasts to explore a world of flavors from the comfort of their home.

How It Works

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker operates on a simple yet effective drip brewing system. Water is stored in the front-fill reservoir and then heated to the ideal brewing temperature. The heated water is then sprayed over the coffee grounds in the filter basket. The coffee drips through the filter and into the glass carafe, ready to be enjoyed.

What sets this coffee maker apart is its integration with Alexa. Through the Alexa app or an Echo device, you can control the entire brewing process using voice commands. You can tell Alexa to start or stop brewing, adjust the brew strength, and even set up schedules for automatic brewing. The coffee maker connects to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control it remotely through the app as well.

Compatibility

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker is designed to seamlessly integrate into your smart home ecosystem. It is compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control it using voice commands through any Alexa-enabled device, such as an Amazon Echo or Echo Dot. You can also control the coffee maker through the Alexa app on your smartphone, giving you the flexibility to manage your coffee brewing from anywhere.

Alexa Integration

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker’s standout feature is its seamless integration with Amazon Alexa. This allows users to control the coffee maker using voice commands through any Alexa-enabled device. Whether you’re asking Alexa to start brewing your morning coffee or adjusting the brew strength, this integration adds a new level of convenience to your daily routine. The coffee maker can also be controlled remotely through the Alexa app, giving you the freedom to manage your coffee from anywhere.

Brew Customization

Aside from Alexa voice control, the coffee maker provides adjustable brew strength with regular and bold settings. To brew a bolder, more intense pot, it steeps the coffee grounds longer before releasing into the carafe. The default regular setting produces a standard medium brew.

The coffee maker brews at an optimal temperature between 195-205°F to properly extract flavor from the grounds. Brew times average around 7 minutes for a full pot.

Convenience Features

Several well-designed features make the coffee maker easy to use daily:

• The front-access reservoir allows adding water without moving the appliance.

• The swing-out filter basket simplifies inserting a filter and coffee grounds.

• Auto-brew can be programmed up to 24 hours in advance for wake-up ready coffee.

• A cleaning reminder appears onscreen when descaling is needed.

• It has a compact footprint fitting under cabinets.

• The carafe and filter basket are dishwasher safe.

• There is a useful cord storage recess on the back.

Bridging Tradition and Technology

The Elite Gourmet EHC208RS not only simplifies the brewing process but also respects the traditional methods that have been perfected over centuries. Here’s how it bridges the gap:

• Adjustable Settings: Reflecting traditional brewing methods where the brew strength and temperature were meticulously adjusted, this coffee maker offers programmable features that allow users to tailor their coffee to their exact preferences, mirroring the artisanal approach.

• Flavor Preservation: Traditional coffee brewing methods are all about flavor extraction. The Elite Gourmet EHC208RS uses modern technology to ensure optimal water temperature and brewing time, which are crucial for extracting the full flavor profile of the coffee, much like the careful methods used by early coffee connoisseurs.

This synthesis of old and new encapsulates how coffee culture has evolved while still honoring its rich traditions.

Temperature Control

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker is equipped with precise temperature control to ensure that your coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature for the best flavor extraction. The coffee maker heats the water to between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the ideal range for brewing coffee. This precise temperature control helps to bring out the full flavor and aroma of your coffee, resulting in a rich and satisfying cup.

Adjustable Brew Strength

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker offers two brew strength options: regular and bold. The regular setting is perfect for those who prefer a milder cup of coffee, while the bold setting is ideal for those who like their coffee strong and flavorful. You can easily switch between the two settings using the control panel on the coffee maker, the Alexa app, or voice commands through Alexa.

Programmable Timer

The programmable timer on the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker allows you to set a specific time for your coffee to start brewing automatically. This is a great feature for those who want to wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee or for those who want their coffee ready when they get home from work. You can easily set the timer using the control panel on the coffee maker or through the Alexa app.

Grind Settings

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker does not have a built-in grinder, which means you will need to use pre-ground coffee. However, the coffee maker’s adjustable brew strength allows you to customize the flavor intensity to some extent, even with pre-ground coffee. You can experiment with different grind sizes and coffee bean types to find your perfect cup.

Water Filter

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker includes an optional water filter. This filter helps to remove impurities from the water, resulting in better-tasting coffee. The coffee maker will remind you when it’s time to replace the water filter, ensuring that you always have fresh, filtered water for your coffee.

Capacity

With a generous 12-cup capacity, the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker is perfect for households or offices that need to brew larger quantities of coffee. The 60-ounce water reservoir ensures you can make enough coffee for everyone without having to refill it constantly.

Auto Shutoff

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker prioritizes safety and energy efficiency with its automatic shutoff feature. Two hours after brewing, the coffee maker will automatically power down, ensuring that it’s not left on unnecessarily. This not only gives you peace of mind but also helps to conserve energy. You can also manually turn off the coffee maker using voice commands, the app, or the control panel.

Front-Fill Reservoir

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker features a convenient front-fill reservoir. This design allows you to easily add water to the coffee maker without having to move it from under cabinets or other tight spaces. The front-fill reservoir also helps to prevent spills and makes it easier to see the water level.

Innovations:

Alexa voice control for hands-free operation is the major innovation.

Additional Features:

Auto-brew scheduling,Bold strength setting, Auto shutoff after 2 hours.

Noise Level:

Typical low hum of drip coffee maker. Not distractingly loud.

Safety:

Sturdy glass, plastic and stainless steel construction. Auto shutoff provides peace of mind.

Materials and Durability

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker is constructed with a combination of stainless steel, glass, and plastic components. The carafe is made of durable glass, while the filter basket and water reservoir are made of BPA-free plastic. The exterior of the coffee maker is made of sturdy plastic with stainless steel accents. While the coffee maker is generally well-built, some users have reported issues with durability after a year or so of use.

Power Consumption

The Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker has a power rating of 950 watts. This is a standard power rating for most drip coffee makers. The coffee maker is energy efficient, as it automatically shuts off two hours after brewing, helping to conserve energy.

Clean Reminders

To ensure your coffee always tastes its best, the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker has a clean reminder feature. After a certain number of brewing cycles, the coffee maker will display a “clean” message on the screen, reminding you to descale the machine. Regular descaling helps to remove mineral buildup that can affect the taste of your coffee.

Dishwasher Safe Components

Cleaning up after brewing your coffee is a breeze with the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker. The carafe, filter basket, and carafe lid are all dishwasher safe, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. This feature ensures that your coffee maker is always clean and ready for your next brew.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker clean is essential for optimal performance and great-tasting coffee. The coffee maker features a cleaning cycle reminder that will alert you when it’s time to descale the machine. Descaling helps to remove mineral buildup that can affect the taste of your coffee and the efficiency of the coffee maker. The carafe, filter basket, and carafe lid are all dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.

Origin & Launch

Designed and produced by the American brand Hamilton Beach, the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker first launched in October 2019. It is one of Hamilton Beach’s newer offerings in the Alexa-enabled appliance market.

Brand

Hamilton Beach - American home appliance brand since 1910, known for affordable, quality products like blenders, air fryers, and coffee makers.

Who It’s For

The Alexa-enabled Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker is ideal for Alexa smart home users who want the convenience of hands-free, customizable coffee. It’s also great for anyone seeking an affordable programmable coffee maker with voice control capability. With intuitive operation and practical features, it’s a solid choice for households that don’t need ultra-high-end coffee but want reliability and customization.

User Feedback:

Overall, most users seem quite pleased with the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker and its innovative integration with Alexa. Many happy customers rave about the convenience of having voice-controlled coffee at their fingertips. The ability to effortlessly brew a fresh pot by simply asking Alexa is a major highlight. Users love being able to customize schedules, strength, and settings entirely hands-free. The Alexa functionality offers a taste of the future that makes morning coffee a breeze.

When it comes to specific features, the front-fill reservoir earns consistent praise. Users find it incredibly helpful to be able to fill the tank from the front without having to move the whole machine. This prevents spills and makes refilling a snap. The programmable timer is also a popular feature for those who want their coffee ready the moment they wake up.

However, there are some common complaints that pop up from less satisfied buyers. The reliability seems to be an issue, with a number of reviews mentioning failures after a year or so of regular use. Problems with the electrical components and display are most frequently cited. There are also some frustrations with getting the Alexa connectivity set up properly during initial installation. A few users report having to really struggle to get it linked and responsive to voice commands.

In terms of coffee quality, most agree that it brews a good tasting pot when functioning properly. The bold setting produces especially robust flavor for those who like intensely strong coffee. But a few critics say the coffee could be hotter and find themselves having to microwave it to desired drinking temperature.

When it works as intended, most users seem thrilled with the Alexa voice integration. But the occasional connectivity and long-term reliability complaints indicate there is still some room for improvement. However, Hamilton Beach seems to have succeeded in bringing an exciting new level of convenience and customization to the average drip coffee maker. The largely positive response shows that smart coffee makers are likely here to stay.

Pros:

• Easy to set up and integrate with Alexa
• Alexa enables hands-free voice control
• Can remotely start and stop brewing via app
• Lets you schedule auto-brew times
  -brew strength control

Cons:

• Small water window on reservoir
• Brew time is slow compared to some models
• Durability issues mentioned after 12-15 months
• Carafe lid could be more spill-proof

Value:

This Alexa integrated coffee maker provides excellent value considering all of the smart features and functionality. The voice control and app connectivity takes it to the next level. The convenience of having a personal barista through Alexa makes it worth the affordable price tag.

Conclusion

The Elite Gourmet EHC208RS Coffee Maker is more than just a kitchen appliance; it’s a bridge between the rich history of coffee culture and the dynamic demands of modern coffee enthusiasts. By integrating the past with the present, it offers an enriched coffee experience that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Whether you are a history buff or a coffee aficionado, the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS provides both a taste of history and a glimpse into the future of coffee brewing.

Embrace the blend of tradition and technology with the Elite Gourmet EHC208RS and make every cup of coffee a testament to centuries of cultural evolution.

Specifications:

• Brewing Capacity: 12 cups
• Water Reservoir Capacity: 60 oz
• Power: 950 watts
• Voltage: 110V
• Dimensions: 7.95” x 13.25” x 13.9”
• Material: Stainless Steel, Glass, Plastic
• Weight: 4.58 lbs
• Color: Black/Stainless Steel
• Model Number: 49350

Box Includes:

• Alexa enabled coffee maker
• Glass carafe
• Instruction manual

Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker User Manual

Congratulations on your purchase of the Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker! This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your new coffee maker.

Getting Started

1. Unboxing: Carefully unpack your coffee maker and remove all packaging materials.
2. Placement: Place the coffee maker on a flat, stable surface near an electrical outlet.
3. Cleaning: Before first use, wash the carafe, filter basket, and carafe lid with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Alexa Setup (Optional)

1. Download the Alexa App: If you haven’t already, download the Amazon Alexa app to your smartphone or tablet.
2. Enable the Skill: Open the Alexa app, go to the “Skills & Games” section, and search for “Hamilton Beach.” Enable the Hamilton Beach skill.
3. Link Your Coffee Maker: Follow the on-screen instructions to link your coffee maker to your Alexa account.

Brewing Coffee

1. Fill the Reservoir: Open the front-fill reservoir and fill it with cold, filtered water up to the desired number of cups.
2. Add Coffee Grounds: Insert a paper filter into the filter basket and add the desired amount of coffee grounds.
3. Brew: Press the “Brew” button on the control panel or use voice commands through Alexa.
4. Enjoy: Once brewing is complete, pour and enjoy your fresh coffee.

Customizing Your Brew

1. Brew Strength: Choose between regular or bold brew strength using the control panel or Alexa.
2. Programmable Timer: Set a specific time for your coffee to brew automatically using the control panel or Alexa.

Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Daily Cleaning: After each use, rinse the carafe, filter basket, and carafe lid with warm water.
2. Descaling: Descale your coffee maker regularly to remove mineral buildup. Follow the instructions in the cleaning cycle reminder.
3. Dishwasher Safe: The carafe, filter basket, and carafe lid are dishwasher safe.

Troubleshooting

1. Coffee Not Brewing: Check that the coffee maker is plugged in and the power switch is on. Ensure the reservoir has enough water and the filter basket is properly inserted.
2. Coffee Too Weak/Strong: Adjust the brew strength setting to your preference.
3. Alexa Not Responding: Check your Wi-Fi connection and ensure the Hamilton Beach skill is enabled in the Alexa app.

Safety Precautions

1. Do Not Immerse: Do not immerse the coffee maker base in water or other liquids.
2. Unplug When Not in Use: Unplug the coffee maker when not in use and before cleaning.
3. Hot Surfaces: Be careful when handling the carafe and coffee maker during and after brewing, as surfaces may be hot.

Warranty

Your Hamilton Beach 49350 Smart Coffee Maker comes with a limited warranty. Refer to the warranty card included in the packaging for details.