The world of home mixology has witnessed a significant transformation with the advent of automated cocktail machines. Two prominent players in this space are Drinkworks and Bartesian, both designed to simplify the process of crafting high-quality cocktails at home. But which one is better? In this article, we’ll delve into the features, functionality, and user experience of both machines to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Drinkworks and Bartesian
Before we dive into the comparison, let’s take a brief look at each machine:
Drinkworks
Drinkworks is a collaboration between Keurig and Anheuser-Busch, two well-established brands in the beverage industry. Their home cocktail machine uses a pod-based system, where users insert a cocktail pod containing the necessary ingredients, and the machine takes care of the rest. Drinkworks offers a wide range of cocktails, from classics to modern creations.
Bartesian
Bartesian, on the other hand, is a standalone company that has gained popularity for its innovative approach to home mixology. Their machine uses a combination of capsules and a built-in water reservoir to craft cocktails. Bartesian’s system is designed to be more flexible, allowing users to customize their drinks to their taste.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design and build quality, both machines have their strengths and weaknesses:
Drinkworks
Drinkworks’ machine has a sleek and modern design, with a compact footprint that fits easily on most countertops. The device is made of high-quality plastic and features a user-friendly interface with a touchscreen display. However, some users have reported issues with the machine’s durability, citing problems with the pod-ejecting mechanism and the overall build quality.
Bartesian
Bartesian’s machine has a more premium feel, with a stainless steel and glass design that exudes luxury. The device is larger than Drinkworks, but its sleek and modern aesthetic makes it a stylish addition to any home bar. Bartesian’s build quality is generally considered to be more robust, with users praising its durability and reliability.
Cocktail Selection and Customization
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a home cocktail machine is the selection of cocktails and the level of customization offered:
Drinkworks
Drinkworks offers a wide range of cocktails, with over 20 different options available. Their pods are designed to work with a variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey. However, users have limited control over the ingredients and proportions used in each cocktail. While Drinkworks does offer some customization options, such as the ability to adjust the strength of the drink, the overall experience is more rigid than Bartesian’s.
Bartesian
Bartesian, on the other hand, offers a more flexible system that allows users to customize their cocktails to their taste. The machine uses a combination of capsules and a built-in water reservoir to craft drinks, and users can adjust the amount of each ingredient to suit their preferences. Bartesian’s system also allows for more experimentation, as users can combine different capsules to create unique cocktails.
Cost and Value
When it comes to cost and value, both machines have their pros and cons:
Drinkworks
Drinkworks’ machine is generally more affordable, with a price point of around $299. However, the cost of the cocktail pods can add up quickly, with each pod costing around $3-$4. This can make the overall cost of ownership higher than Bartesian’s machine.
Bartesian
Bartesian’s machine is more expensive, with a price point of around $499. However, the cost of the capsules is generally lower, with each capsule costing around $1-$2. Additionally, Bartesian’s system allows for more customization and experimentation, which can make the overall cost of ownership lower in the long run.
User Experience and Maintenance
When it comes to user experience and maintenance, both machines have their strengths and weaknesses:
Drinkworks
Drinkworks’ machine is generally easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and a simple pod-based system. However, some users have reported issues with the machine’s maintenance, citing problems with descaling and cleaning.
Bartesian
Bartesian’s machine is also easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and a simple capsule-based system. However, some users have reported issues with the machine’s maintenance, citing problems with descaling and cleaning. However, Bartesian’s system is generally considered to be more robust and easier to maintain than Drinkworks’.
Conclusion
So, which machine is better? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a more affordable machine with a wide range of cocktails, Drinkworks may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more premium machine with a high level of customization and flexibility, Bartesian may be the better choice.
| Feature | Drinkworks | Bartesian |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Build Quality | Compact and modern design, but some durability issues | Premium feel with stainless steel and glass design, robust build quality |
| Cocktail Selection and Customization | Wide range of cocktails, but limited customization options | More flexible system with customization options, allows for experimentation |
| Cost and Value | More affordable machine, but higher cost of ownership | More expensive machine, but lower cost of ownership in the long run |
| User Experience and Maintenance | Easy to use, but some maintenance issues | Easy to use, with a more robust and easier-to-maintain system |
By considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of each machine, you can make an informed decision and choose the home cocktail machine that’s right for you.
What are Drinkworks and Bartesian, and how do they work?
Drinkworks and Bartesian are two popular home cocktail machines designed to simplify the process of making cocktails at home. Both machines use proprietary pods or capsules containing pre-measured ingredients, which are then mixed with a spirit of your choice to create a wide range of cocktails. The machines are equipped with advanced technology that ensures the perfect balance of ingredients and precise mixing techniques, resulting in professional-grade cocktails with minimal effort.
The main difference between the two machines lies in their design and functionality. Drinkworks uses a more traditional approach, where the pods contain a combination of juices, syrups, and flavorings that are mixed with a spirit to create a cocktail. Bartesian, on the other hand, uses a more modular approach, where the capsules contain individual ingredients that are combined in specific proportions to create a cocktail. Both machines are easy to use and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for home entertaining.
What types of cocktails can I make with Drinkworks and Bartesian?
Both Drinkworks and Bartesian offer a wide range of cocktail options, from classic favorites to modern creations. Drinkworks has a library of over 20 cocktails, including popular drinks like the Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Mojito. Bartesian, on the other hand, offers over 30 cocktail options, including some unique and exotic creations. Both machines also allow you to customize your cocktails by adjusting the amount of spirit and other ingredients to your taste.
In addition to the pre-programmed cocktails, both machines also offer the option to create your own custom cocktails using the proprietary pods or capsules. This feature allows you to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create unique cocktails that suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a classic cocktail enthusiast or a adventurous mixologist, both Drinkworks and Bartesian offer a wide range of options to suit your needs.
How do Drinkworks and Bartesian compare in terms of price?
The price of Drinkworks and Bartesian varies depending on the specific model and features. The Drinkworks Home Bar is priced around $299, while the Bartesian Premium Cocktail Machine is priced around $349. However, it’s worth noting that the cost of the machines is just the initial investment – you’ll also need to factor in the cost of the proprietary pods or capsules, which can range from $1 to $3 per cocktail.
While the initial cost of the machines may seem high, they can actually be a cost-effective option in the long run. With Drinkworks and Bartesian, you can make high-quality cocktails at home for a fraction of the cost of going to a bar or restaurant. Additionally, both machines offer a convenient and hassle-free way to entertain at home, which can save you money on transportation and other expenses.
How easy is it to clean and maintain Drinkworks and Bartesian?
Both Drinkworks and Bartesian are designed to be easy to clean and maintain. The machines have a sleek and compact design that makes them easy to wipe down and clean after use. The proprietary pods or capsules are also designed to be easy to dispose of, and the machines come with a built-in cleaning cycle that helps to remove any residue or buildup.
In terms of maintenance, both machines require occasional descaling to prevent mineral buildup and ensure optimal performance. This process is relatively simple and can be done using a descaling solution and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Overall, both Drinkworks and Bartesian are designed to be low-maintenance and easy to care for, making them perfect for busy home entertainers.
Can I use my own spirits and ingredients with Drinkworks and Bartesian?
Both Drinkworks and Bartesian allow you to use your own spirits and ingredients, but with some limitations. Drinkworks requires you to use their proprietary pods, which contain pre-measured ingredients that are designed to work with their machine. However, you can use your own spirits and adjust the amount to your taste. Bartesian, on the other hand, allows you to use your own spirits and ingredients, but you’ll need to purchase their proprietary capsules, which contain individual ingredients that are combined in specific proportions to create a cocktail.
While you can’t use your own ingredients with the proprietary pods or capsules, both machines offer a high degree of customization and flexibility. You can adjust the amount of spirit and other ingredients to your taste, and experiment with different flavor combinations to create unique cocktails. Additionally, both machines offer a wide range of cocktail options, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste preferences.
What is the customer support like for Drinkworks and Bartesian?
Both Drinkworks and Bartesian offer excellent customer support, with a range of resources available to help you get the most out of your machine. Drinkworks offers a comprehensive user manual, online tutorials, and a customer support hotline that’s available 24/7. Bartesian also offers a user manual, online tutorials, and a customer support hotline, as well as a dedicated customer support team that’s available to answer any questions you may have.
In addition to the customer support resources, both machines also come with a warranty that covers defects and repairs for a certain period of time. Drinkworks offers a 1-year warranty, while Bartesian offers a 2-year warranty. Overall, both machines offer excellent customer support and a high degree of reliability, making them perfect for home entertainers who want a hassle-free cocktail-making experience.
Which machine is right for me – Drinkworks or Bartesian?
The choice between Drinkworks and Bartesian ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a more traditional cocktail-making experience with a wide range of pre-programmed cocktails, Drinkworks may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a more modular approach with a high degree of customization and flexibility, Bartesian may be the better choice.
It’s also worth considering the cost and maintenance requirements of each machine. Drinkworks is generally more affordable and requires less maintenance, while Bartesian offers a wider range of cocktail options and a more premium design. Ultimately, the choice between Drinkworks and Bartesian will depend on your individual needs and preferences, so it’s worth doing some research and reading reviews before making a decision.