I’m a coffee enthusiast who’s spent countless mornings tinkering with drip brewers, chasing that perfect cup. The Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select and Bonavita BV1900TS are two heavyweights in the drip coffee world, both promising café-quality brews at home.
In this article, I’ll break down their features, weigh their pros and cons, and share my experience to help you decide which machine deserves a spot on your counter.
From build quality to brew performance, I’ll explore every angle to guide you toward your ideal coffee maker.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select | Bonavita BV1900TS |
| Price (USD) | ~$349-$359 | ~$150-$190 |
| Capacity | 40 oz (10 cups) | 40 oz (8 cups) |
| Brew Time | 4-6 minutes | ~6 minutes |
| Material | Aluminum housing, BPA-free plastic | Stainless steel, some plastic components |
| Carafe Type | Glass (hot plate) or thermal | Thermal (glass-lined) or glass |
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years |
| SCA Certification | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Infusion | Manual (via drip-stop) | Automatic pre-infusion mode |
| Brew Volume Control | Half/full carafe selector switch | None |
| Showerhead Design | 9-hole bar style | Multi-hole for even saturation |
| Auto Shut-Off | Hot plate shuts off after 100 minutes | Immediate shut-off after brewing (no hot plate for thermal) |
| Design Aesthetic | Retro, colorful (21+ color options) | Sleek, minimalist, modern |
| Ease of Cleaning | Moderate (removable parts, some flimsy) | Moderate (showerhead cleaning can be tricky) |
| Footprint (H x W x D) | 14 x 12.75 x 6.5 inches | 12.4 x 6.8 x 12.2 inches |
| Weight | ~6.7 lbs | ~6.1 lbs |
My Journey With Drip Coffee Makers
For years, I’ve been on a quest for the perfect drip coffee maker. I’ve tried everything from budget models that churn out bitter brews to high-end machines that promise the moon but deliver lukewarm disappointment.
When I first heard about the Technivorm Moccamaster and Bonavita, I was skeptical—could they really live up to the hype? Both are SCA-certified, meaning they meet strict standards for water temperature, brew time, and extraction.
But certifications don’t pour your morning coffee, so I decided to put the Moccamaster KBGV Select and Bonavita BV1900TS through their paces to see which one truly shines.
Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select: The Dutch Icon
The Moccamaster KBGV Select is like the cool, retro uncle of coffee makers—stylish, confident, and a bit pricey.
Handmade in the Netherlands since the 1960s, it’s a product of Technivorm’s obsession with quality.
The first thing I noticed was its bold design.
Available in over 21 colors, from matte black to vibrant pink, it’s a statement piece for any kitchen.
My polished silver model looked like it belonged in a mid-century modern café, and I couldn’t help but smile every time I saw it on my counter.
Key Features of The Moccamaster KBGV Select
The Moccamaster is all about precision and simplicity. Its copper heating element heats water to the ideal 196–205°F range, ensuring optimal extraction without scorching the grounds.
The 9-hole showerhead, while not perfect, delivers water in a steady pulse, mimicking a pour-over setup. The brew basket has an automatic drip-stop, which pauses the flow when you remove the carafe—handy for sneaking a cup mid-brew.
The KBGV Select also has a brew-volume selector switch, letting you optimize for a half (4–6 cups) or full (10 cups) carafe, adjusting water flow and hot plate temperature accordingly.
The glass carafe sits on a hot plate with two settings (175°F for half, 185°F for full), keeping coffee warm for up to 100 minutes before auto shut-off. If you prefer a thermal carafe, the KBT model is an option, though I stuck with the glass for visibility and ease of cleaning.
The machine brews 40 ounces in 4–6 minutes, which is lightning-fast for a full pot. Plus, it’s backed by a 5-year warranty and lifetime repair support, a testament to its durability.
Pros of The Moccamaster KBGV Select
- Exceptional Build Quality: The aluminum housing feels solid, and the machine’s handmade construction screams longevity. Mine’s been going strong for years, and reviews from users who’ve owned theirs for a decade back this up.
- SCA-Certified Excellence: It consistently brews balanced, flavorful coffee that rivals pour-over. The copper element and precise temperature control make every cup smooth and aromatic.
- Stylish Design: With its retro aesthetic and color options, it’s a countertop showstopper. I’ve had friends ask where I got it just because it looks so darn cool.
- Brew Volume Flexibility: The half/full carafe switch is a game-changer for solo mornings or hosting brunches. It ensures consistent extraction regardless of batch size.
- Drip-Stop Feature: I love grabbing a cup mid-brew without a mess. The automatic drip-stop is a thoughtful touch for impatient coffee lovers like me.
- Long Warranty: Five years of coverage plus lifetime repairs give peace of mind, especially at this price point.
Cons of The Moccamaster KBGV Select
- Premium Price Tag: At $349–$359, it’s a significant investment. I winced at the cost initially, but the coffee quality and durability softened the blow.
- Flimsy Plastic Components: The brew basket and coffee scoop feel cheap compared to the sturdy aluminum body. I worry about their long-term durability.
- No Automatic Pre-Infusion: Unlike pour-over, there’s no built-in bloom cycle. You can manually pause the carafe for blooming, but it’s a bit of a hassle.
- Showerhead Limitations: The 9-hole bar-style showerhead concentrates water in the center, which can lead to uneven extraction. I sometimes stir the grounds to compensate.
- Hot Plate Concerns: The glass carafe’s hot plate can overcook coffee if left on too long, though the 100-minute auto shut-off helps mitigate this.
- No Programmable Features: If you want to set your brew the night before, you’re out of luck. It’s a manual process every time.
Bonavita BV1900TS: The Budget-Friendly Contender
The Bonavita BV1900TS entered my kitchen as the underdog, priced at around $150–$190.
Designed in Germany and made in China, it’s less flashy than the Moccamaster but packs a punch for its price.
Its sleek, stainless steel design is minimalist and modern, fitting seamlessly into my kitchen without drawing attention.
It’s compact, too, standing at just 12.4 inches tall, making it a great choice for smaller spaces.
Key Features of The Bonavita BV1900TS
The Bonavita is SCA-certified, brewing at the same 196–205°F range as the Moccamaster. Its standout feature is the automatic pre-infusion mode, which wets the grounds before brewing to release gases and enhance flavor—a feature I wish the Moccamaster had.
The multi-hole showerhead ensures even water distribution, and the flat-bottom filter basket promotes consistent extraction. The thermal carafe (glass-lined for better taste) keeps coffee hot for hours without a hot plate, though a glass carafe option is available.
The Bonavita brews 40 ounces in about 6 minutes, slightly slower than the Moccamaster. It’s a one-switch wonder, with no bells or whistles like programmable timers.
The auto shut-off kicks in immediately after brewing, saving energy. The 2-year warranty is decent but doesn’t match the Moccamaster’s longevity promise.
Pros of The Bonavita BV1900TS
- Affordable Price: At nearly half the cost of the Moccamaster, it’s a steal for SCA-certified performance. I was impressed by the value for money.
- Automatic Pre-Infusion: The bloom cycle is a huge win, delivering richer, more balanced coffee without manual effort.
- Even Extraction: The multi-hole showerhead saturates grounds evenly, reducing the need to stir. My brews were consistently smooth.
- Compact and Sleek: Its smaller footprint and minimalist design make it ideal for space-conscious kitchens.
- Thermal Carafe: The glass-lined carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without a hot plate, and I noticed no metallic taste, unlike some stainless steel carafes.
- Simple Operation: One switch to rule them all. It’s perfect for those who want great coffee without fussing over controls.
Cons of The Bonavita BV1900TS
- Build Quality: The stainless steel is solid, but plastic components feel less durable than the Moccamaster’s aluminum. I’m skeptical about its long-term resilience.
- Shorter Warranty: Two years is fine, but it pales next to the Moccamaster’s five-year coverage and lifetime repairs.
- No Brew Volume Control: Unlike the Moccamaster, it doesn’t adjust for smaller batches, which can lead to weaker coffee when brewing less than a full pot.
- Tricky Cleaning: The showerhead’s many holes trap grounds, making it a pain to clean thoroughly. I spent extra time scrubbing to keep it pristine.
- No Hot Plate Option: The thermal carafe is great, but if you prefer a glass carafe, the lack of a hot plate means coffee cools faster.
- Limited Aesthetics: It’s functional but lacks the Moccamaster’s vibrant color options and retro charm.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Technivorm Moccamaster And Bonavita
Let’s break this down into key categories to see how these machines stack up in real-world use.
- Brew Quality
Both machines are SCA-certified, so they hit the right temperature (196–205°F) and brew time (4–6 minutes for Moccamaster, ~6 for Bonavita).
The Moccamaster’s coffee is smooth and nuanced, especially with fresh beans.
I brewed a medium-roast Ethiopian and got bright, floral notes that made my mornings sing.
However, the showerhead’s central water flow sometimes left me stirring the grounds for even extraction.
The Bonavita, with its pre-infusion and multi-hole showerhead, edged out slightly in consistency. My same Ethiopian brew had a touch more clarity and less bitterness, likely due to the even saturation.
If you’re a flavor geek, the Bonavita’s automatic bloom gives it a slight edge, but the Moccamaster’s manual drip-stop lets you mimic a bloom if you’re willing to babysit.
- Build and Durability
The Moccamaster feels like a tank with its aluminum housing. After years of daily use, mine shows no signs of wear, and the 5-year warranty (plus lifetime repairs) is reassuring. The plastic brew basket is a weak point, though—I’ve dropped it once or twice and cringed at its flimsiness.
The Bonavita’s stainless steel body is sturdy but less premium, and the plastic parts feel cheaper. I’ve read reviews of Bonavita carafes cracking or lids breaking, which makes me question its longevity. The 2-year warranty is standard but doesn’t inspire the same confidence as the Moccamaster’s.
- Design and Aesthetics
The Moccamaster is a conversation starter. Its retro, blocky design and vibrant color options make it a kitchen centerpiece. I love how it stands out, and guests always comment on it.
The Bonavita, while sleek and modern, blends into the background. It’s functional but doesn’t have the Moccamaster’s personality. If aesthetics matter to you, the Moccamaster wins hands-down.
- Ease of Use
Both machines are simple, but the Bonavita’s one-switch operation is as easy as it gets. Flip it on, and you’re done. The pre-infusion mode requires no extra steps, which I appreciated on groggy mornings.
The Moccamaster’s two switches (on/off and half/full carafe) add a bit more control but also complexity. The drip-stop is a nice touch, but manually pausing for a bloom feels like extra work. If you want set-it-and-forget-it simplicity, Bonavita takes the lead.
- Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the Moccamaster is straightforward but not perfect. The removable brew basket and carafe are easy to wash, but the flimsy plastic basket requires gentle handling. The water reservoir needs occasional descaling, and the 9-hole showerhead is simple to clean—no crevices to trap grounds.
The Bonavita’s showerhead is a pain. Grounds get stuck in the tiny holes, and I spent extra time scrubbing to keep it clean. The thermal carafe’s lid is fiddly, requiring removal and reattachment for brewing, which annoyed me.
Both machines need regular descaling, but the Bonavita’s showerhead makes maintenance a bit more tedious.
- Price and Value
The Moccamaster’s $349–$359 price tag is steep. I hesitated before buying, but the coffee quality, durability, and warranty justified it over time. It’s an investment for serious coffee lovers. The Bonavita, at $150–$190, is a fantastic value.
You get SCA-certified performance and pre-infusion for half the price. If budget is a concern, the Bonavita delivers near-comparable coffee without breaking the bank.
My Testing Process of Technivorm Moccamaster And Bonavita
To compare these machines fairly, I brewed multiple batches using the same medium-roast coffee, a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio, and medium-coarse grind.
I tested full pots (40 oz) and half pots (20 oz), noting flavor, brew time, and ease of use.
I also checked temperature stability with a thermometer and assessed build quality by handling each component daily for a month.
Taste tests were blind, with friends and family weighing in to avoid bias.
I cleaned both machines regularly to evaluate maintenance and tracked how each performed over time.
The Moccamaster consistently delivered vibrant, balanced coffee, though I noticed slight under-extraction in larger batches unless I stirred the grounds.
The Bonavita’s pre-infusion made smaller batches shine, but full pots were sometimes weaker without volume control. Both machines held steady temperatures, but the Moccamaster’s hot plate kept coffee warmer longer (for better or worse).
Who Should Choose The Moccamaster?
The Moccamaster is for coffee purists who value aesthetics and longevity. If you love hosting brunches, want a machine that doubles as décor, and don’t mind the price, it’s a no-brainer.
The brew-volume selector and drip-stop make it versatile for solo or group brewing, and the 5-year warranty ensures it’s a long-term investment. It’s perfect for those who see coffee as an experience, not just a caffeine hit.
Who Should Choose the Bonavita?
The Bonavita is for budget-conscious coffee lovers who still want top-tier performance. Its pre-infusion and even extraction make it ideal for those who prioritize flavor without manual tweaks.
If you have a small kitchen or prefer a low-profile design, the Bonavita fits beautifully. It’s also great for anyone who wants a fuss-free machine that delivers excellent coffee at a fraction of the Moccamaster’s cost.
My Verdict
After weeks of brewing, tasting, and tinkering, I lean toward the Moccamaster KBGV Select. Its build quality, warranty, and versatility for different batch sizes make it a standout. The coffee is phenomenal, and the retro design adds joy to my mornings.
That said, the Bonavita BV1900TS is a close second. Its pre-infusion and affordability make it a fantastic choice for those who want great coffee without the premium price. If budget isn’t an issue, the Moccamaster is worth the splurge. If you’re watching your wallet, the Bonavita won’t disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, if you value premium build quality, stylish design, and consistent, café-quality coffee. The $349–$359 price is steep, but the 5-year warranty and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious coffee lovers.
Yes, the Bonavita BV1900TS is manufactured in China, though designed in Germany.
The Moccamaster’s handmade Dutch construction, SCA certification, copper heating element, and retro design set it apart. It brews precise, flavorful coffee and offers a 5-year warranty with lifetime repairs.
With proper maintenance, a Moccamaster can last 10–20 years. Many users report decades of reliable use, backed by Technivorm’s lifetime repair support.
Wrapping Up
You’re standing at a crossroads, coffee lover. The Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select offers a premium experience—stunning design, robust build, and versatile brewing that elevates your daily cup. It’s an investment, but one that pays off in flavor and longevity.
The Bonavita BV1900TS, meanwhile, delivers near-comparable coffee with pre-infusion and a wallet-friendly price, perfect if you want quality without the splurge. I’ve laid out the pros, cons, and my own journey to help you choose.
Whether you go for the Moccamaster’s charm or Bonavita’s value, your mornings are about to get a whole lot tastier.