I've been using the Elite Gourmet EC812G Coffee Percolator for a while now, and it's a solid choice for brewing coffee or tea quickly. Its retro design and 12-cup capacity are impressive, and the Keep Warm feature guarantees my drink stays hot for hours. But I can't ignore the plastic knob and heating plate, which feel less durable than I'd like, and cleaning the narrow spout can be a hassle. Still, it's hard to deny its charm and efficiency. If you're curious about whether its pros outweigh the cons, there's more to unpack.
Key Takeaways
- Brews 12 cups of coffee or tea in under 5 minutes, ideal for medium to coarse grounds to avoid bitterness.
- Automatic Keep Warm function maintains coffee at optimal temperature for up to 2 hours, preserving flavor and aroma.
- Features a transparent knob for brewing progress monitoring, 360° swivel base, and cord-free serving for enhanced usability.
- Versatile for brewing tea, heating water, and preparing hot cereals, with a stainless steel filter basket for eco-friendly use.
- Mixed reviews on durability, with concerns about plastic knob and heating plate, but praised for speed and retro design.
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The Elite Gourmet EC812G Coffee Percolator stands out for its blend of retro aesthetics and modern functionality. Its brew speed is impressive, delivering up to 12 cups of coffee or tea in under 5 minutes, making it ideal for quick mornings or gatherings. I appreciate how the temperature control guarantees consistent heat during brewing, which is vital for extracting rich flavors. The automatic Keep Warm function maintains the coffee at an ideal temperature for up to 2 hours, so I don't have to worry about it cooling too quickly. While the brew speed and temperature control are reliable, I've noticed that the heating plate can sometimes struggle with prolonged use. Overall, these features make it a practical choice for those who value efficiency without sacrificing quality.
Features and Benefits
The Elite Gourmet EC812G brews up to 12 cups of coffee in under 5 minutes, making it a quick solution for gatherings or daily use. Its Automatic Keep Warm function maintains the ideal temperature for up to 2 hours, ensuring your coffee stays hot without reheating. The transparent brew progress knob lets me monitor the brewing cycle, while the 360° swivel base adds convenience for serving without cord interference.
2-Cup Capacity in 5 Minutes
Brewing up to 12 cups of coffee or tea in under 5 minutes, the Elite Gourmet EC812G delivers impressive speed and efficiency for its size. Its brew speed is a standout feature, making it ideal for mornings when I need a quick caffeine fix or when hosting guests. The capacity efficiency is equally notable—it handles a full 12-cup batch without compromising on performance. I've found it particularly useful for larger gatherings, as it eliminates the need for multiple brewing cycles. The transparent knob lets me monitor the brewing progress, ensuring I don't over-extract the coffee. While the fast brew time is a major plus, I'd recommend using medium to coarse grounds to avoid bitterness, as the rapid process can intensify flavors. Overall, it's a reliable choice for those prioritizing speed and volume.
Automatic Keep Warm Function
When I first used the Elite Gourmet EC812G, its Automatic Keep Warm function stood out as a practical feature that guarantees my coffee stays at the ideal temperature for up to 2 hours. The temperature control is precise, ensuring my coffee doesn't overheat or cool too quickly, which is perfect for mornings when I'm multitasking. I also appreciate its energy efficiency; it maintains warmth without consuming excessive power, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective. This feature eliminates the need to reheat coffee, preserving its flavor and aroma. While it's not a replacement for a thermal carafe, it's a reliable solution for keeping coffee hot during short periods. Overall, the Keep Warm function adds convenience and enhances the percolator's usability.
Transparent Brew Progress Knob
Another standout feature of the Elite Gourmet EC812G is its transparent brew progress knob, which lets me monitor the brewing cycle in real time. The brew visibility is excellent, as I can easily see the coffee percolating through the knob, ensuring I know exactly when it's ready. This feature eliminates guesswork and adds a layer of convenience to the brewing process. However, while the knob's design is functional, I've noticed concerns about its durability. Some users report that the plastic knob may wear or crack over time, especially with frequent use. Despite this, the transparency of the knob remains a practical advantage, offering a clear view of the brewing progress and enhancing the overall user experience. It's a thoughtful addition for coffee enthusiasts who value precision.
60° Swivel Base Design
With its 360° swivel base, the Elite Gourmet EC812G offers a level of convenience that's hard to overlook. The swivel stability guarantees the percolator stays firmly in place while rotating, making it easy to pour coffee without worrying about spills or tipping. I appreciate the cord-free convenience, as it allows me to serve directly from the base without dealing with tangled cords or limited reach. This feature is especially handy when entertaining guests or working in a compact kitchen space. The non-slip feet further enhance stability, securing the percolator stays safe on countertops. While the swivel base adds functionality, I've noticed it requires gentle handling to maintain smooth rotation over time. Overall, it's a practical design that enhances usability without compromising safety.
Product Quality
The Elite Gourmet EC812G Coffee Percolator delivers a blend of retro charm and functional design, but its product quality presents a mix of strengths and weaknesses. While the stainless steel components and vintage aesthetic are appealing, durability concerns arise with the plastic knob and heating plate, which some users report failing prematurely. The heating efficiency is generally reliable, brewing up to 12 cups in under 5 minutes, but inconsistencies in maintaining ideal temperature have been noted. The Keep Warm feature works well for up to 2 hours, though the heating plate's longevity can be hit-or-miss. Overall, the percolator's quality is decent for casual use, but frequent users may find its durability lacking over time.
What It's Used For
I use the Elite Gourmet EC812G primarily for brewing coffee and tea, as it efficiently handles up to 12 cups in under 5 minutes. It's also handy for heating water for other beverages or preparing hot cereals and oatmeal, making it versatile for quick meals. The Keep Warm function guarantees everything stays at the right temperature, which I find practical for busy mornings.
Brewing Coffee and Tea
Although primarily designed for brewing coffee, the Elite Gourmet EC812G excels at preparing a variety of hot beverages and foods, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. When brewing coffee, the percolator enhances the coffee flavor by circulating water through the grounds multiple times, resulting in a rich and robust cup. For tea lovers, it allows precise control over tea strength, whether you prefer a light infusion or a bold brew. The transparent brew progress knob lets me monitor the process, ensuring consistency every time. Its stainless steel filter basket is easy to clean and reusable, making it eco-friendly. While it's not a French press or drip machine, its simplicity and efficiency make it a reliable choice for both coffee and tea enthusiasts.
Heating Water for Beverages
Heating water for beverages is one of the Elite Gourmet EC812G's most straightforward yet essential functions. Its rapid heating technology guarantees water reaches the ideal temperature quickly, making it perfect for preparing tea, hot cocoa, or instant soups. I appreciate the water temperature control, which prevents overheating and guarantees consistency for different beverage types. The percolator's ability to heat up to 12 cups of water in under 5 minutes is impressive, and the Keep Warm feature maintains the temperature for up to 2 hours, so I don't have to worry about reheating. The transparent brew progress knob lets me monitor the process, adding convenience. While primarily designed for coffee, its versatility in heating water efficiently makes it a reliable tool for any hot beverage need.
Preparing Hot Cereals and Oatmeal
The Elite Gourmet EC812G excels at preparing hot cereals and oatmeal, offering a quick and efficient solution for breakfast or snacks. For hot cereal preparation, I simply add water to the percolator, set it to heat, and let it reach a rolling boil. Once boiling, I pour the hot water directly into my bowl of oats or cereal, ensuring even heating. For oatmeal heating tips, I recommend using the Keep Warm function to maintain the ideal temperature, especially if preparing multiple servings. The 12-cup capacity is perfect for larger batches, and the transparent brew progress knob lets me monitor the heating process. Its portability makes it convenient for use in kitchens, offices, or even outdoors, ensuring a warm, satisfying meal anytime.
Product Specifications
Measuring 10 inches in depth, 13 inches in width, and 6 inches in height, the Elite Gourmet EC812G is a compact yet efficient coffee percolator designed for versatility. Its 230V voltage requirements make it suitable for international use, though users should verify compatibility with their local power systems. The percolator's country origin is China, which reflects its global manufacturing standards. Below is a quick breakdown of its key specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 230V (AC) |
| Dimensions | 10D x 13W x 6H inches |
| Weight | 3.28 pounds |
This lightweight design, combined with its retro aesthetic, guarantees it's both functional and stylish. The voltage requirements and country origin are essential considerations for buyers seeking a reliable, globally compatible appliance.
Who Needs This
For coffee enthusiasts who value both style and functionality, the Elite Gourmet EC812G is a standout choice. If you're someone who appreciates a rich, full-bodied brew and enjoys the ritual of making coffee, this percolator is tailored for you. It's also ideal for vintage lovers who want to add a retro 50s aesthetic to their kitchen or coffee station. Whether you're hosting gatherings or simply savoring a quiet morning, its 12-cup capacity and Keep Warm feature make it practical for daily use. If you're often on the go, its portability and versatility for brewing tea, hot cocoa, or even oatmeal make it a reliable companion. This percolator bridges nostalgia and modern convenience, appealing to those who crave both.
Pros
Brewing coffee with the Elite Gourmet EC812G feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern conveniences. Its quick brewing capability guarantees I have a full pot ready in under 5 minutes, perfect for busy mornings. The stylish design, with its retro green exterior and vintage 50s aesthetic, adds charm to my kitchen counter. Here's why I appreciate it:
- Efficiency: The automatic Keep Warm function maintains coffee temperature for up to 2 hours, so it's always ready to serve.
- Convenience: The 360° swivel base and cool-touch handle make serving and handling safe and easy.
- Versatility: It's not just for coffee—I use it for tea, hot cocoa, and even oatmeal.
- Durability: The stainless steel filter and dishwasher-safe components guarantee long-term use.
- Portability: Its lightweight design makes it ideal for home, office, or outdoor use.
Cons
Despite its many strengths, the Elite Gourmet EC812G isn't without its flaws. While it brews a decent cup of coffee, I've noticed some areas where it falls short. Here are the key drawbacks:
- Durability issues: The plastic knob and heating plate have been reported to fail prematurely, raising concerns about long-term use.
- Heating problems: Some users, including myself, have experienced inconsistent heating, leading to lukewarm coffee or over-percolation.
- Limited capacity: At 12 cups, it's not ideal for larger gatherings, and brewing smaller batches can be tricky.
- Noise level: The percolation process can be louder than expected, which might be disruptive in quieter settings.
- Cleaning challenges: While some parts are dishwasher-safe, the narrow spout and intricate components can be difficult to clean thoroughly.
These issues, while not deal-breakers, are worth considering before purchasing.
What Customers Are Saying
Customers often highlight the Elite Gourmet EC812G's stylish design and ease of use as standout features, with many praising its retro aesthetic and portability. I've noticed that customer satisfaction is high when it comes to its brewing speed and the Keep Warm function, which keeps coffee hot for hours. However, durability concerns are a recurring theme in reviews. Some users report issues with the plastic knob breaking or the heating plate failing within months, which impacts long-term reliability. Despite these concerns, many appreciate the quality of coffee it produces and its versatility for brewing tea or oatmeal. While the design and functionality earn praise, the mixed feedback on longevity suggests it may not be the best choice for heavy daily use.
Overall Value
The Elite Gourmet EC812G offers a blend of retro charm and modern convenience, making it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile coffee percolator. Its cost efficiency stands out, as it brews up to 12 cups quickly and includes a reusable stainless steel filter, saving on paper filters. However, when considering durability comparison, some users report issues with the plastic knob and heating plate, which may affect long-term use. Despite this, its lightweight design, Keep Warm function, and retro aesthetic add significant value for its price point. While it may not be the most robust option on the market, its versatility and stylish appeal make it a worthwhile investment for casual coffee enthusiasts or those who appreciate its nostalgic design.
Tips and Tricks For Best Results
To get the most out of your Elite Gourmet EC812G, start by using freshly ground coffee beans and measuring them accurately—about one tablespoon per cup of water. This guarantees a balanced flavor without over-extraction. For ideal brew temperature control, avoid overfilling the water chamber; stick to the 12-cup max to prevent overheating. I've found that preheating the percolator with hot water before brewing helps maintain consistent temperatures. For cleaning maintenance tips, always rinse the stainless steel filter basket and brewing stem immediately after use to prevent coffee residue buildup. While the parts are dishwasher-safe, handwashing preserves their longevity. Regularly descale the unit with a vinegar-water solution to prevent mineral deposits, which can affect performance. These small steps keep the percolator running smoothly and your coffee tasting great.
Conclusion
After thoroughly testing the Elite Gourmet EC812G, I've found it to be a solid choice for those seeking a blend of retro charm and modern functionality. My overall impression is that it delivers on its promises, offering quick brewing, a reliable Keep Warm feature, and a stylish design that stands out. The transparent brew progress knob and easy-to-clean components add to its practicality. However, durability concerns, particularly with the plastic knob and heating plate, are worth noting. In my final thoughts, I'd recommend this percolator for casual users who value aesthetics and convenience, but heavy daily users might want to evaluate sturdier options. It's a great pick for brewing coffee, tea, or even oatmeal, especially if you appreciate its vintage appeal.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
