Ratio vs. Simply Good: Which Plastic-Free Coffee Maker Is Best?
Microplastics are in everything, especially your coffee. A new generation of plastic-free drip coffee brewers is trying to change this.
The rise of plastic in drip coffee makers is a growing concern due to microplastics leaching into coffee or water. Two new machines aim to remove plastic from the brewing process: Ratio Eight Series 2 ($799) and Simply Good Coffee Plastic-Free Coffee Brewer ($480). Both promise high-end coffee without plastic, but each has its quirks and trade-offs.
The Ratio Eight delivers drip coffee that rivals pour-over, while the Simply Good Coffee is a more affordable option, removing plastic from the cold water tank. Simply Good Coffee is a newer brand founded in 2022, specializing in affordable precision coffee makers. The plastic-free machine features a stainless steel frame, borosilicate glass reservoir, and carafe, with medical-grade silicone fittings.
It has a bloom cycle, coffee warmer, and manual drip stop, but some parts aren't as precise as desired. Its coffee is light-bodied, brewed in six minutes, and maintains precise brewing temperatures. The Ratio Eight Series 2 boasts a sleek walnut-trimmed design and artful coffee, extracted over nine minutes for a full-bodied, round flavor.
It's capable of maintaining temperature precision, and the machine is backed by a five-year warranty. For those prioritizing the avoidance of plastic, Simply Good Coffee is the recommended choice, while Ratio Eight Series 2 is the top pick for flavor enthusiasts.
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