| How long have you used the product? |
Less than 1 month |
| Which similar products have you used? |
I tried a "Kenwood Graphite" from Argos and also priced the same, but far worse build quality. Therefore it went straight back and I got the CM651 instead. The problems with the Graphite were the handle was a poor plastic moulding with poor finish to the edges, the lid on the coffee pot is murder to remove (perhaps you aren't meant to, but how else can you clean it?), but worse of all the hotplate was unfinished metal - it looked like the inside base of a tin of tomatoes. (Did I just get a duff machine that never made it to the final conveyor in the factory?!) Other things to bare in mind is the Graphite is smaller in jug size at 1.25l, versus the CM651 1.7l capacity. You do however get a free coffee measuring spoon with the Graphite, which you don't with the 651 - before you ask yes I did return it with the machine to Argos… |
| Functionality |
 4.0 / 5 |
| Quality |
4.0 / 5 |
| Value for money |
 3.0 / 5 |
| Title of review |
Buy this not the Kenwood Graphite |
| What are the strengths? |
Good build quality
Large capacity compared to similar machines in this class (1.7l)
Takes standard filter papers (4 free ones generously supplied…) or can be used with an alternative permanent filter which is supplied.
|
| What are the weaknesses? |
On the downside, the lid is a little tricky to remove for cleaning, but does click firmly into place which avoids it flying off when pouring. The unit itself has a larger footprint that you expect. As the jug is large the unit is taller than your average machine in this class. The jug itself isn't a wonderful pourer, although I've seen worse. You can't set the hotplate heat level or delay start on this model, but you can on the next one up if you can find someone stocking it… |
| Summary |
A solid job, but some design flaws (pouring and lid removal being the biggest ones I could find). Beats the opposition on build quality and the Kenwood Graphite. I also looked at Bosch TKA2801 which came a close second. CM651 also stocked in Allders - remarkably also £19.99 but you get your Tesco Clubcard points on it there too. |
| Do you recommend this product? |
Yes |
| Overall rating |
4.0 / 5 |
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