Bonavita Coffee Maker Reviews: Connoisseur vs BV1900TS Coffee Makers
You may not be an official connoisseur but you want to wake up each morning to a decent cup of coffee. You’re looking for a new and better coffee maker and the Bonavita brand made it to the top of your list somehow. You don't know much about it, but you decide to give it a chance. Well, that's why we have decided to put together this Bonavita coffee maker review.
Is this really the one you can trust to make fresh, excellent-tasting, knock-your-socks-off coffee? Well, that’s why we’ve created this review guide to give you the low down on everything Bonavita. In case you want our honest answer, we actually recommend splurging on the Technivorm Moccamaster if you are after the best SCAA certified coffee maker.
Award-Winning Certification
Bonavita makes three drip coffee makers that carry the prestigious Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) certification. The BV1900TS, BV1900TD, and Connoisseur meet the association’s technical standards of excellence which is what prompted this Bonavita review.
Several key features help these models make the grade: a heater that reaches and maintains optimal temperatures and a showerhead that evenly distributes water. Let’s take a deeper dive into each Bonavita coffee maker to see if one of them should make it home to your kitchen counter.
Bonavita BV1900TS
The Bonavita BV1900TS is simple to use, compact and easy to maintain. In fact, the Bonavita BV1900TS was voted “Best of 2019” and “Best Coffee Makers of 2019.” Overall, we give it a 4.6 out of 5 stars. Out of all of the models, this Bonavita coffee maker is the most popular choice.
Here are the basic specs:
width of 6.80" / length of 12.40" / height of 12.20”
Features of the Bonavita BV1900TS review includes:
- 8-cup stainless steel carafe with insulation
- 1500-watt heater for brewing temperatures between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Dishwasher-safe and BPA-plastic free showerhead, carafe lid, and filter basket.
- A pre-infusion mode that moisturizes your coffee grounds before the brewing process begins.
Design/Build Quality: 4/5 ⭐
The exterior appearance of this coffee maker can be deceiving. When you first look at it, you may not think there’s anything special here. It has a simple stainless steel finish that mimics a lot of other coffee makers on the shelf.
There is a lack of cool-looking gadgets and controls to grab your attention. You’ll notice there is only one button to turn the brewer on and off. And it’s black so it fades into the rest of the design.
A basic shape with a clear water container that sits beneath the brewer on one side and the carafe and filter basket on the other round out the maker’s appearance. For some, the look might be too industrial or “factory-like.” Others might appreciate its modern, sleek aesthetic that could work well with a downtown urban loft’s décor.
Our final verdict on the design is it’s not stand out enough to give it all five stars, but it’s also not going to make any of your guests scream “what is that”?
Performance: 5/5 ⭐
There’s little doubt that the Bonavita BV1900TS deserves a full star rating for its performance. SCA certification means its brewing abilities are top of the line and recognized by a body of coffee science experts and professional coffee tasters.
The requirements that coffee makers have to meet to receive certification are based on industry expertise and research conducted by the Coffee Brewing Center.
Ease of Use: 5/5 ⭐
Because of its basic design and build, the BV1900TS model is really easy to use. You don’t have to be a barista or have any special coffee-making knowledge.
All you have to do is open up the basket’s lid, put in your coffee filter and grounds, fill the water tank, and press on the switch. Within six short minutes, your next cup of joe will be ready to sip.
Features: 4/5 ⭐
Similar to its design, the Bonavita BV1900TS opts for the simple route when it comes to its features. While there aren’t any bells and whistles here, the coffee maker has what it takes to get the job done.
On a side note, you also won’t get to witness a rain shower or anything fantastic during the brewing process. The power light stays on while your coffee is brewing and you’ll hear the sound of water going into the thermal carafe. But that’s about it.
Those who live on the quieter side of life will probably find this welcoming. After all, who wants to hear a loud machine brewing in the early morning or late at night? Plus, without as many moving parts, there’s less to keep clean. Just wipe out the filter basket, water tank, and carafe as needed.
Value for Money: 4.5/5 ⭐
This isn’t the most expensive drip brewer on the market, but it’s not a budget one either. Given its SCA certification and two-year warranty, the BV1900TS’ higher price is worth the splurge. The fact that the machine meets the Golden Cup Standard for flavor and brew strength, you’ll probably end up saving money on specialty brews from your local coffee shops.
View Latest Price →Bonavita BV1900TD
The Bonavita BV1900TD is a small step up from its BV1900TS cousin. It shares many of the same features and design but adds in a digital programming screen and a few more buttons. Our overall rating for the BV1900TD is 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Basic specs of the BV1900TD model are as follows:
width of 6.80”/ length of 12.40”/ height of 12.20”
Some of the perks you’ll get include:
- 8-cup stainless steel thermal carafe.
- 1500-watt heater with a temperature range between 198 and 205 degrees.
- One-touch brewing feature.
- Dishwasher-safe and BPA plastic-free filter basket, carafe lid, and showerhead.
- A pre-infusion mode that replicates a pour-over brewing method.
Design/Build Quality: 4.2/5 ⭐
We give this model slightly higher marks on the design and build because of the digital programming display. Simply put, there’s more to look at and use.
You’ll still get the basic stainless steel “industrial” look with the BV1900TD. The design features the standard water tank on the left and the brew basket and space for the carafe on the right. However, you’ll be able to set the time and tell the drip coffee maker when you want to start brewing.
The digital display shows the time in a futuristic, soft blue so your tired eyes won’t be blinded. There is also the one-touch feature that makes brewing easier. Consider it simple automation at its finest.
Performance: 5/5 ⭐
The BV1900TD also meets the high marks required of the Gold Cup Standard and SCA award. It’s hard to find a home machine that produces coffee with a similar brewing method as the professionals. The machine also comes with a two-year warranty to back up its craftsmanship and performance durability.
Ease of Use: 5/5 ⭐
The BV1900TD is very easy to use. The water reservoir is clearly marked so you can see how much water you’re adding. To make a pot, just fill up the brew basket with the right amount of grounds, press the timer, and wait until it’s done!
Cleaning the BV1900TD is also a breeze. You can handwash the water tank, brew basket, and carafe after each use. Or rinse the brew basket and carafe lid and place them in the dishwasher for your next load.
Features: 4.1/5 ⭐
Really the only thing new here is the programmable timer and display. If you want more convenience than the BV1900TS, you’ll want to get this model instead. Otherwise, you’re pretty much getting the same list of features as the cheaper option.
Value for Money: 4.5/5 ⭐
We give the Bonavita BV1900TD review the same rating for value because we don’t believe the addition of the programmable timer and display fully warrant the jump in price. Yes, this is a cool and convenient feature. However, if you don’t care that much about one-touch programming or being able to pre-set the time your brewer makes your coffee, you probably won’t want to spend the extra dough.
Still, the BV1900TD does provide a good overall value. It makes top-of-the-line coffee according to some of the toughest standards. With a basic look that can fit into any kitchen and ease of use, the BV1900TD is worth the higher cost than the types of brewers you can find at any big-box retailer.
SOLD OUT →Bonavita Connoisseur
The Bonavita Connoisseur is the best model so far that Bonavita has put out. The model makes a good cup of coffee for less. While it’s more budget-friendly than either the BV1900TS or BV1900TD, you’ll still be making an investment in your next home coffee experience.
Our overall rating for the Connoisseur comes in at 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Here’s where the Connoisseur stands in terms of the basics:
width of 6.80”/ length of 12.40”/ height of 12.20”
Quite a few of the main features are the same as the BV1900TS and BV1900TD. However, there are some differences like a smaller carafe and a sound to let you know when your coffee is ready.
- 8-cup stainless steel 1.3 L thermal carafe
- One-touch brewing option
- Showerhead design that wets coffee grounds before brewing starts.
- 1500-watt heater for brewing temperatures between 198 and 205 degrees.
- Pre-infusion mode
- Dishwasher-safe and BPA plastic-free showerhead, carafe lid, and filter basket.
- An audible tone announces the end of the brewing cycle.
- One-year warranty
Design/Build Quality: 4/5 ⭐
True to the Bonavita brand, the Connoisseur has a basic design and stainless steel look that goes with anything. It’s not something that’s going to make you go “oooh” or stop in admiration, but it’s decent. The water tank sits on the left of the device, while the brew basket and carafe sit on the right.
Besides stainless steel, there is black trim and parts to provide a seamless modern look. The brew basket does slide in and out of a slot. This is different from the BV1900TS and BV1900TD where you open the top lid to put in and remove your filters and coffee grounds.
Some people may like the slide-out design better since it’s easier to remove the basket for cleaning. Others may not like this design since they may consider a basket that slides out to be more flimsy or difficult to control.
One of the new design features in the latest model is that you can swap out the carafe for a travel mug or single cup. So if you don’t want to brew a whole pot or need to take your coffee and run, you can.
Performance: 5/5 ⭐
The Connoisseur has the same SCA certification for performance as Bonavita’s other two models. Even though the price is lower, there aren’t any shortcuts when it comes to meeting the highest brewing requirements.
However, it’s important to note that some experts don’t like the way the carafe pours. Although the manufacturer has touted improved pouring performance with the latest model, experts have found that it remains problematic.
Without the carafe lid, you’re at risk of spilling your coffee if you don’t pour with a precise technique. But with its thermal design, your coffee will stay warm for several hours inside the carafe.
Ease of Use: 5/5 ⭐
Perhaps the most standout thing about the Connoisseur is its ease of use. There’s nothing complex or unusual about this device. You pour water into the reservoir and press one button. Of course, you’ll also want to add in your favorite beans and filter.
If you want to pre-soak your coffee grounds, just press the on/off switch down five seconds. This will activate the pre-infusion mode and remove extra gas from the beans. You’ll get a better taste if you use this feature.
Features: 4/5 ⭐
The Connoisseur isn’t flashy but it has all the basics that you would enjoy with the BV1900TS. If you’re looking for something more complicated with extras like a milk frother or options for pods, this may not be the machine for you. Those who just want to brew something tasty will get what they need.
Value for Money: 4.6/5 ⭐
We give the Connoisseur the highest value for the money rating because you’re essentially getting the BV1900TS for less. Although there are some slight differences in terms of carafe capacity and the filter basket design, we think it’s a better deal. Especially if all you want to make at home is great drip coffee.
In our minds, there isn’t a compelling enough reason to spend more for the same thing. Don’t get us wrong. The higher sticker shock that comes with the Bonavita brand isn’t going to appeal to everyone. But if you want to do some entertaining at home and impress your guests for less, the Connoisseur is the way to go.
View Latest Price →Not Specialty Coffee Association Certified
So far, we have reviewed the models that are SCAA certified, but what about the models that do not hold that prestigious title? Although we suggest the Bonavita Connoisseur above the rest, is there a drip coffee machine on this list that we would suggest as a close second?
Bonavita BV1901GW 8-Cup One-Touch Coffee Maker
While most of the models on our list feature a thermal carafe, there are a few other options that sport a glass carafe. As much as we love the looks of a stainless steel carafe, having your brewed coffee in a glass carafe will allow you to see it easily.
Not only can you see how much coffee is left in your glass carafe, but you'll have an easier time cleaning it and spotting coffee build-up. While the glass options are a bit easier to break, they are also cheaper to replace which is a great trade off.
View Latest Price →BV1901PW Metropolitan 8 Cup Coffee Maker
Similarly to the last drip coffee machine that we reviewed, the BV1901PW Metropolitan 8 Cup Coffee Maker also totes a glass carafe which many prefer to brew coffee in. While this drip coffee maker and the BV1901GW share similar characteristics, there is one main difference - price.
The BV1901PW model not only offers the same 8 cup serving size, but it comes at nearly half the price. For a coffee maker under $100, it certainly shines! So what if it isn't SCAA certified, it's the caffeine you should be after, not the accolades!
View Latest Price →Bonavita 5-Cup
So far we have reviewed five coffee machines from Bonavita. While they each have a great rating, some of the reviews reflect some concern. With the Bonavita 5 cup coffee maker, you not only have one of the most popular models, but you also get the highest rated drip coffee machine. Featuring a thermal body and expert extraction, this drip coffee maker will produce top quality brewed coffee.
While this Bonavita coffee brewer isn't SCAA certified, it has the approval of thousands of customers that have actually tested it. When it comes to reviews, we tend to trust the majority over a singular ruling body like the SCAA.
View Latest Price →Final Thoughts
If we had to make a choice between the three, we’d definitely go with the Bonavita Connoisseur. For us, there are too many similarities between the models to give us a compelling urge to spend more than necessary. The fact that all of them look alike, will fit in with most kitchen designs, and brew drip coffee according to identical standards is what influenced our decision the most.
Making a cup of coffee doesn’t need to be complicated. Or overly expensive. It just needs to taste really good and the coffee brewing process should be easily repeatable. If you still are unsure of which Bonavita coffee maker to choose, stick with the Connoisseur... trust us! While a Bonavita coffee maker won't get you the same perfect extraction as that of a Technivorm Moccamaster, it will put out some pretty amazing coffee with their own proprietary brew cycle.
WHAT WE RECOMMEND →
Parker Russell is a coffee professional and the founder of Black Ink Coffee. As an expert in the field of coffee roasting, cupping (professional Q-Grader) and brewing, Parker has established Black Ink as brand that fuels the grind of dreamers.