What Makes the Chemex Ottomatic 2.0 Stand Out?

The Chemex Ottomatic 2.0 is an automatic coffee maker that combines the iconic design of the classic Chemex glass carafe with an automated system designed to replicate the manual pour-over brewing process. It automates key brewing variables like water temperature, pre-infusion, and contact time to produce a cup with hand-pour flavor but with push-button ease. This makes it a niche choice compared to competitors that may offer broader programmability but lack its specialized pour-over simulation and iced coffee capabilities.

Feature Breakdown

Automated Pour-Over with Pulse-Bloom Control

The primary difference between the Ottomatic 2.0 and many other automatic coffee makers lies in its water delivery system. It uses a "Greedy Cup" sprayhead that, instead of a continuous stream, releases water in pulses. The cycle begins with a pre-infusion phase, pausing after the first 30 seconds to allow the coffee grounds to "bloom" (release trapped gases). The machine then resumes in short bursts, a process designed to keep the temperature steady and saturate the entire coffee bed for a more balanced and even extraction.

Precise Water Temperature Management

The Ottomatic 2.0 is calibrated to heat and hold water within the optimal range for coffee extraction. An internal 1400W heating coil brings the water to a temperature between 197.6°F and 204.8°F (92°C to 96°C), which aligns with the target range recommended by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). The pulsing water delivery also helps maintain this temperature throughout the brewing process.

Hot & Iced Brewing Modes

A unique feature is its dedicated iced coffee mode, toggled by a simple rocker switch. When activated, this mode adjusts the brewing process to create a stronger, more concentrated coffee (up to 40 oz) that brews directly over ice placed in the carafe. This setting also deactivates the hot plate to prevent the glass carafe from heating up and melting the ice.

Integrated Chemex Carafe & Bonded Filters

The machine is designed to work exclusively with the classic 6- or 8-cup Chemex glass carafe and its proprietary thick, bonded paper filters. This integration is key to its performance, as the all-glass brewing path avoids contact with plastic components found in many other brewers' brew baskets. The thick filters are known for removing oils, resulting in an exceptionally clean, clear-tasting cup of coffee that mirrors the quality of a manual Chemex brew.

Hot Plate with Auto-Off Function

For hot coffee, a hot plate maintains the brew at approximately 170°F. To prevent scorching or burning the coffee, it features an automatic shut-off. This is typically set to 30 minutes for US models and 90 minutes for EU versions.

Simple Interface and Compact Design

The Ottomatic 2.0 features a simple, one-button interface for starting the brew cycle, with a separate switch for hot or iced coffee. It deliberately avoids clocks, timers, and complex programming, which reviewers praise for its reliability and ease of use. With a compact base measuring 7.3 in × 12.2 in, it is suitable for smaller counter spaces. The unit typically comes with a Chemex Classic Series Coffeemaker, a starter pack of filters, a carafe cover, and a cleaning solution.

How It Compares to Other Brewers

While the Ottomatic 2.0 adheres to the SCA's temperature guidelines, it is not officially SCA Certified. Many high-end competitors, such as Technivorm Moccamaster, OXO, and Ratio, focus on achieving this certification, which requires meeting strict standards for both brew time and temperature. These brewers often provide different features, such as thermal carafes or more extensive programmability, rather than focusing on simulating a specific manual brew method.

Feature	Chemex Ottomatic 2.0	Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV	OXO Brew 8-Cup	Ratio Six
Brewing Method	Automated pour-over with pulsing "Greedy Cup" sprayhead and bloom cycle.	Automated drip with a multi-hole showerhead for wide distribution; no built-in bloom.	Automated drip with a rainmaker showerhead and a limited bloom cycle.	Automated pour-over with a spiral showerhead and a full bloom cycle.
Temp Range	197.6 – 204.8 °F	196 – 205 °F	197 – 204 °F	195 – 205 °F
Iced-Coffee Mode	Yes (dedicated mode)	No	No	No
Carafe	Glass Chemex	Glass or Thermal options	Double-wall Thermal Stainless Steel	Thermal Stainless Steel
SCA Certified	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Approx. Price*	$350	$350-$380	$200	$340-$365

*Street prices may vary.

Pros and Possible Drawbacks

Taste: Delivers the exceptional clarity, sweetness, and low bitterness of a manual Chemex brew with automated convenience.
Versatility: It is one of the only brewers in its class with a factory-supported iced-coffee mode.
Design & Footprint: Features the timeless Chemex aesthetic and a compact base that fits well on small counters.
Limitations: The glass carafe loses heat faster than thermal alternatives, and the maximum brew volume is 40 oz.
No Timer: The simple, reliable interface means it cannot be programmed to auto-start in the morning, a drawback for users who want that feature.