BUNN SBS Speed Brew Review
The BUNN SBS Speed Brew Coffee Maker promises to make a full pot of coffee in just four minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings. But it’s not just fast — this coffee maker also delivers rich, smooth coffee every time. In this bunn sbs review, we’ll take a closer look at its design, features, and performance to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Let’s see what makes the BUNN Speed Brew stand out.
Reasons to Buy
- Brew a full pot in just few minutes
- Easy to clean with removable parts.
- Large 10-cup capacity.
- Simple and intuitive to use.
- Keeps coffee warm without overheating.
Reasons to Avoid
- No programmable features
- Can be a bit bulky for smaller kitchens
Design & Build Quality
The BUNN SBS Speed Brew Coffee Maker stands out with its sleek and compact design, making it a great addition to any modern kitchen. From the moment we unboxed it, we were impressed by its elegant black finish. The glossy exterior not only looks premium but also resists smudges, which helps it maintain a clean, polished appearance even with regular use. Its minimalistic style blends effortlessly with various kitchen setups, whether traditional or contemporary.
When we placed it on our counter, the dimensions of 14.5"D x 7.1"W x 14.5"H immediately stood out as a major advantage. It doesn’t take up much space, which is ideal for smaller kitchens or cluttered countertops. The height is perfect for sliding it under cabinets while still being able to lift the lid and access the water reservoir comfortably.
The build quality feels solid like BUNN CSB2B Speed Brew Elite. The plastic exterior is sturdy and gives you confidence in its durability. After using it daily for a few weeks, we noticed that it holds up well against wear and tear. The carafe deserves special mention. It has a well-designed handle that feels comfortable and secure to grip, even when it’s full. The clear markings on the carafe are easy to read, which makes measuring water for brewing simple and precise.
The coffee maker's brew basket is user-friendly. It’s easy to remove and clean, which is a big plus for everyday convenience. The power switch is straightforward—just an on/off button that eliminates unnecessary complexity. This simplicity makes the brewing process feel quick and hassle-free.
Water Reservoir
The water reservoir of the BUNN SBS Speed Brew Coffee Maker is thoughtfully designed for both convenience and efficiency. One of the first things we noticed while using it is how accessible the reservoir is. Its wide opening makes filling it with water quick and mess-free. You don’t need to worry about spilling water all over your counter, which is a common problem with narrower reservoirs.
The 70 oz capacity of the reservoir is ideal for everyday use, especially for households that drink multiple cups of coffee daily. It’s large enough to brew multiple cups in one go, which saves time in the mornings when you're in a rush. The internal heating element keeps the water warm and ready to brew, which is one of the standout features of this coffee maker. This hot water system ensures you can brew coffee in just a few minutes without having to wait for the water to heat up from scratch.
We also appreciated the design of the reservoir lid. It flips open easily, allowing you to refill or clean it without any struggle. The materials used in the reservoir feel durable, and it doesn’t stain or retain odors after repeated use, which is a big plus for long-term maintenance.
One minor drawback is that the reservoir is not removable, which means you need to bring water to the machine instead of being able to take the reservoir to the sink. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall performance and reliability of the system.
User Interface
The user interface of the BUNN SBS Speed Brew Coffee Maker is as simple as it gets, making it highly user-friendly. From the moment we started using it, we appreciated how intuitive and straightforward the controls are. There are no complicated settings or confusing buttons, which means anyone can operate it without needing to consult a manual.
The main control is a single switch located at the front. This on/off switch is clearly labeled, making it easy to know when the machine is powered on or off. Above the switch, a small indicator light glows when the warming plate is active, letting you know that your coffee is staying hot. This small detail adds a layer of convenience, as you don’t need to guess whether the warming plate is working or not.
We found the simplicity of the interface refreshing, especially for busy mornings when you just want to brew coffee quickly. There are no digital displays, timers, or programmable options, which some might view as a downside. However, for those who value straightforward functionality, this simplicity is a strength. It focuses purely on brewing coffee, without unnecessary distractions.
The lack of advanced controls also means there’s very little to go wrong. You won’t be dealing with confusing error codes or malfunctioning digital panels. This reliability adds to the machine's appeal for people who want a hassle-free brewing experience.
10 Cup Capacity
The BUNN SBS Speed Brew Coffee Maker’s 10-cup capacity is one of its standout features, especially for families or coffee enthusiasts who love to share a pot. During our time using it, we found that it perfectly balances quantity with convenience. The full 10-cup carafe means you can make enough coffee for everyone in one brewing cycle, which saves time and effort compared to brewing multiple smaller batches.
Each cup is measured at the standard 5-ounce coffee serving, so if you enjoy larger mugs, it comfortably fills about 5-6 mugs in one go. This capacity is perfect for homes with several coffee drinkers or for hosting guests. It’s also great for office use, where a single brew can cater to several people at once.
We appreciated how the carafe is designed to pour smoothly, even when filled to maximum capacity. There’s no messy dripping or spilling while serving, which is a huge plus when you’re hosting or in a rush. The markings on the carafe are clear and easy to read, making it simple to measure the exact amount of water needed for smaller or larger brews. Even if you don’t need the full 10 cups every time, you have the flexibility to brew smaller amounts without compromising on flavor.
The internal heating system complements the large capacity perfectly. It keeps the water hot and ready, ensuring that even with a full carafe, the brewing time remains impressively quick. In our experience, the coffee tastes consistently fresh and rich, even when brewing a full pot.
Glass Carafe
The glass carafe of the BUNN SBS Speed Brew is a key component that adds both functionality and style to the machine. From the moment we started using it, we noticed how well it’s designed to handle daily use. Its sleek black finish, combined with the transparent glass, gives it a modern look that complements the overall design of the coffee maker.
One of the standout features of the carafe is its drip-free spout like Bunn BX Speed Brew. Pouring coffee is smooth and mess-free, even when the carafe is completely full. We didn’t experience any annoying spills or leaks, which is a big plus when you’re serving multiple cups. The handle is sturdy and ergonomically designed, making it easy to hold and pour without straining your wrist.
The carafe's capacity aligns perfectly with the coffee maker’s 10-cup brewing ability. It holds enough coffee for a group while still being lightweight and easy to handle. The glass itself feels durable and of high quality. Despite repeated use, it didn’t develop stains or retain odors, which is often an issue with lower-quality carafes.
Another feature we appreciated was how well the carafe works with the warming plate. It keeps the coffee warm without overheating, so you don’t have to worry about your coffee tasting burnt over time. Cleaning the carafe is also a breeze. It’s dishwasher-safe, but we found that even handwashing it with mild soap was quick and easy.
One minor drawback is that the glass material, while sturdy, requires a bit of extra care. Like any glass carafe, it’s prone to breaking if dropped, so handling it with caution is essential.
Coffee Making Time
The coffee-making time of theBUNN sbs coffee maker is one of its most impressive features. During our use, we were consistently amazed at how quickly it brews a full pot of coffee. It lives up to its name, producing 10 cups in about four minutes, which is significantly faster than most traditional drip coffee makers.
The internal hot water tank ensures this speed by maintaining the water at the optimal brewing temperature of 200°F. Because the water is preheated, there’s no waiting for it to warm up when you start a brew. We found this incredibly convenient, especially during busy mornings or when entertaining guests. You simply add your coffee grounds, pour in the water, and the machine does the rest in record time.
Despite the speed, the coffee quality is never compromised. The flavor is rich and consistent, thanks to the spray head that evenly saturates the coffee grounds during the brewing process. Whether we brewed a full pot or just a few cups, the taste was always bold and well-extracted.
One thing we particularly appreciated was how the fast brewing didn’t create any extra noise. The machine operates quietly, making it suitable for early mornings when you don’t want to disturb others in the house.
If you’re someone who values both time and quality, this machine delivers on both fronts. It’s designed for those who want their coffee quickly without sacrificing taste.
Coffee Taste
The coffee taste from the BUNN SBS Speed Brew is exceptional and easily one of its standout qualities. During our time using it, we were consistently impressed with how rich, smooth, and well-balanced each cup tasted. The machine uses a unique spray head design that evenly distributes hot water over the coffee grounds. This ensures optimal extraction, which brings out the full flavor of the coffee beans.
We tested it with various types of coffee grounds, from light roasts to bold, dark blends, and the results were always impressive. The coffee had no hint of bitterness, which is a common issue with many other drip coffee makers. Instead, it offered a clean and full-bodied flavor that felt like it was brewed by a professional barista. Whether you prefer a mild morning cup or a strong pick-me-up, this coffee maker delivers consistently great results.
The brewing process also preserves the natural aroma of the coffee. From the moment the brewing starts, you’re greeted with a delightful, café-like fragrance that fills the room. This is partly due to the machine maintaining the ideal brewing temperature of 200°F, which is crucial for extracting the best flavors from coffee.
Additionally, the machine’s speed doesn’t compromise the taste. Even with the fast four-minute brewing time, the coffee doesn’t feel rushed or under-extracted. It’s a perfect balance of efficiency and quality.
Coffee Temperature
During our use, we noticed that the machine delivers coffee at the perfect serving temperature, ensuring every cup stays hot and satisfying from the first sip to the last.
The key to this is the machine’s internal hot water tank, which keeps water preheated at an optimal temperature of around 200°F. This is considered the ideal brewing temperature for coffee, as it allows for proper extraction of flavors without scalding the grounds. When the coffee brews, it comes out piping hot but never too hot to drink, striking the perfect balance for enjoyment.
We found that the coffee stays at this ideal temperature even after sitting in the glass carafe on the warming plate. The warming plate maintains the coffee's heat without overheating it, so the taste remains fresh without developing a burnt or stale flavor. Even after 30-40 minutes, the coffee retained its quality and stayed hot enough for refills without needing to reheat.
This consistent temperature is especially important for those who love their coffee hot but not scalding. Whether you’re brewing a quick cup for yourself or preparing a full pot for guests, the temperature is always just right.
One thing to note is that if you prefer your coffee extremely hot, you might find this temperature slightly milder. However, for most coffee enthusiasts, the machine delivers coffee that’s pleasantly hot and ready to enjoy immediately.
Easy to Clean
During our experience, we found that its thoughtful design simplifies the cleaning process, saving time and effort.
The glass carafe is straightforward to clean due to its smooth interior surface. It doesn’t hold on to coffee stains or residue, even after multiple uses. A quick rinse with warm soapy water is often all it takes to make it spotless. Plus, the wide opening of the carafe makes it easy to reach inside for a thorough cleaning.
The brew funnel and spray head are also removable, which is a huge plus. This allows you to clean these components separately, ensuring no coffee grounds or mineral deposits are left behind. The spray head, in particular, can accumulate buildup over time, but its removable nature makes it easy to rinse or soak. We recommend cleaning it every few days to maintain optimal performance.
The warming plate can be wiped down effortlessly with a damp cloth. Even if coffee spills on it, the smooth surface doesn’t allow stains to settle, making cleanup hassle-free. The exterior of the machine is sleek and doesn’t attract much dust or fingerprints, so a quick wipe keeps it looking new.
Another aspect we appreciated is the internal hot water tank. While you don’t need to clean it frequently, descaling it every couple of months is simple. The process involves running a mixture of water and white vinegar through the system, which is easy to do and ensures the machine continues running efficiently.
Final Verdict
The BUNN SBS Speed Brew select coffee maker is an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a fast, high-quality coffee brewing experience. It combines speed, efficiency, and excellent coffee flavor in one sleek package. With its quick brewing time of just four minutes, it’s perfect for busy mornings or when you need to serve multiple people. The 10-cup capacity is ideal for families, gatherings, or office settings, and the glass carafe ensures easy pouring and clean-up every time.
When it comes to coffee taste, the BUNN SBS doesn’t disappoint. The coffee comes out rich, smooth, and full-bodied, thanks to its consistent brew temperature and advanced water distribution system. And with the machine’s easy-to-clean design, you won’t spend too much time maintaining it, which makes it a practical option for daily use.
While the price may be higher compared to some other drip coffee makers, the BUNN SBS offers value for money due to its long-term durability, speed, and coffee quality. If you're a coffee lover who values fast brewing times, great-tasting coffee, and hassle-free cleaning, this coffee maker is well worth the investment.