Oxo Compact vs Coffee Gator Side-by-Side Comparison
OXO Compact cold brew coffee maker vs Coffee Gator. A choice that rests on the strength and quality of the brew.
Specifications
Design
We unboxed the OXO Compact cold coffee brewer to see what came in such a neat and small package. The initial impression was a product that delights and excites.
The overall design of the Coffee Gator is simple and practical. The way the lid works is particularly nice, but the handle needs rethinking. The stainless steel measuring spoon and silicone funnel are also quite versatile in and of themselves.
Usability Comparison
The OXO Compact is one of the easiest cold brew coffee makers to use. You simply measure your ingredients using the markings on its brew vessel and decanter. Decanting was fast and effortless, and cleaning straightward. It also stored very neatly, adding to its compact appeal. The only thing to be careful of is the sensitive decanting spring valve.
Coffee Gator is exceptionally easy to use because of the included measuring spoon and silicone pouring funnel. The filter attaches securely and effortlessly, and the lid design is most practical. Hand cleaning is also no issue.
Brew Quality
Overall, the OXO Compact produced a smooth and full-bodied brew. It was very satisfying to drink with a simple dilution. However, the brew tended to lack sweeter flavor subtleties and the complexity one would expect from a cold brew.
The brew quality of the Coffee Gator was fairly average and much in line with other immersion brewers with a similar ratio. The brew lacked complexity overall but was drinkable enough without dilution. Hot blooming may be an option, but many people prefer a stainless steel filter for this.
Overall Scores
Pros & Cons
- Compact design
- Quality packaging
- Aesthetic decanter
- Easy measuring
- Pours very smoothly
- Quality of glass carafe
- Additional spoon and funnel
- Neat and clever lid
- Twist to pour lid
- Personalized extras
- Stopper doesn’t fit tightly
- Sensitive decanter valve
- Brew not so complex
- Grip and length of handle
- Brew rather average
Conclusion
Both the OXO Compact and Coffee Gator are excellent value cold brew coffee makers. The key to choosing is the type of brew quality you are looking for. The OXO Compact is a free-style brewer that produces one of the strongest cold brew coffee concentrates we have tested. You can also change the liquid volume and brew ratio.
The OXO Compact also has a reusable stainless steel filter, which means there are no additional purchases needed down the line. The brew will automatically decant when the brew vessel is placed on the carafe.
Coffee Gator is a glass jug type brewer that can easily fit in the door of a small refrigerator. The filter is made of plastic and nylon and though the brew it produces is a little below average, it is good enough to drink. The lid design is airtight and you simply twist it to pour. You also get a stainless steel measuring spoon and silicone funnel for pouring in the grounds and water.
Behind the Comparison
Roger Shitaki is a writer, author, and editor. His niches are household appliances, health & wellness, and travel. He’s a freelance contributor to a Tokyo lifestyle website and a leading ophthalmology magazine in Asia.
