The Bodum Columbia 8 Cup Double Wall French Press Coffee Maker appears to be a well-regarded option for those who prioritize both a classic design and keeping their coffee hot for extended periods. Here’s a breakdown of its features to help you decide if it’s a good fit for you:
Pros:
- Double-Walled Insulation: This technology helps your coffee stay hot for longer, similar to a travel mug, potentially for up to 2 hours according to Bodum.
- Medium Capacity: Brews up to 8 cups (1.0 liters) of coffee, ideal for 4-5 people or for those who like to brew a pot for throughout the morning.
- Durable Materials: Built with a stainless steel frame and a double-walled stainless steel carafe. This offers a good balance between style, durability, and heat retention.
- Easy to Use: Features a simple design with an easy-to-pour spout and comfortable grip handle.
- Permanent Mesh Filter: Eliminates the need for paper filters, reducing waste and saving money in the long run.
- Dishwasher Safe: While handwashing is recommended to preserve the quality of the stainless steel carafe, it is dishwasher safe for convenience.
- Bodum Reputation: Bodum is a well-established brand known for quality French presses.
Cons:
- Larger Size Than Classic Chambord: Compared to the Bodum Chambord in the same cup size (8 cups), the Columbia is slightly bigger due to the double-walled insulation. This might be a consideration if you have limited counter space.
- Price: Bodum is a well-established brand, and the Columbia might be slightly more expensive than some generic French press options or even the non-insulated Chambord model.
Overall, the Bodum Columbia 8 Cup Double Wall French Press Coffee Maker is a good option for those who want a classic design with the added benefit of insulation to keep coffee hot for longer. The durable build, permanent filter, and well-regarded brand reputation make it a good value for the price. However, if you have limited counter space or prioritize a lower price point, a non-insulated French press might be a better choice.
Here are some additional things to consider:
- Coffee Consumption: Consider how much coffee you typically brew at a time.
- Cleaning: The carafe and plunger are dishwasher safe, but handwashing is recommended to preserve the quality of the carafe.
- Alternatives: Bodum offers a variety of French press models with different sizes, materials, and features. Consider browsing their selection to find the one that best suits your needs.
- Thermal Performance: While Bodum claims the coffee stays hot for up to 2 hours, reading reviews from users can give you a real-world perspective on the thermal performance.