I tested one of the coolest-looking drip coffee makers in the world — and it's not just a pretty face

The Smeg Retro Coffee Maker is a visually stunning appliance that certainly stands out in any kitchen. Despite its premium appearance, this Italian brand's latest offering proves that style and substance can go hand in hand. In my hands-on testing, the Retro Coffee Maker demonstrated its ability to brew clean-tasting, balanced coffee with minimal sediment and no bitterness, thanks to its easy-to-use one-button interface.

Priced at $259 in the United States and £199-£219 in the United Kingdom, the Smeg Retro Coffee Maker falls in the higher price range compared to other single-serve options, such as the Moccamaster KGBV Select ($369) and the SCA-accredited Breville Luxe Brewer ($329). However, for the price-conscious coffee enthusiast, the Moonlight colorway is the only exception to the higher price range, as it costs £20 more than the standard colors.

The Retro Coffee Maker's strong points lie in its sleek and sophisticated design, which can easily blend into both home and diner-style kitchens. Measuring 14 inches tall, 10 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, this coffee maker is slightly larger than the Moccamaster KGBV Select and the Breville Luxe Brewer, but shares the same height as the Ninja 12-Cup Drip Brewer.

The only accessory included is a permanent mesh filter and a scoop, which allows for the use of single-use #4 conical filters as well. The water tank is not removable, which may pose a challenge for left-handed users.

Brewing with the Smeg Retro Coffee Maker is a simple process, requiring just a few steps: adding coffee to the filter, filling the water tank, choosing the desired intensity level, and pressing the power button. The brewing time varies, taking between seven to eight minutes for a full batch and around three minutes for a half batch. While the water tank's positioning may require a little getting used to, the overall experience is user-friendly and results in a delicious cup of coffee.