Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their coffee makers, our hands-on testing revealed that many fall short on key features. I’ve tested dozens, and the standout so far is the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS. It’s impressively versatile—adjustable carafe temperature, brew strength controls, and a 14-cup capacity that keeps up with busy mornings. Its brew pause and easy water window really make a difference when you want a quick cup or precise filling.
Compared to models like the Ninja Luxe Café, which offers fancy espresso and cold brew but comes with a high price tag, or the Keurig K-Express with limited strength options, the Cuisinart hits the sweet spot of quality, features, and value. It’s simple yet packed with options to customize your brew, plus it’s incredibly reliable after thorough testing. If you want a dependable, user-friendly coffee maker that handles everything from strong brews to timing your first cup, I wholeheartedly recommend the Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS.
Top Recommendation: Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS
Why We Recommend It: This coffee maker outshines competitors with its adjustable carafe temperature, customizable brew strength, and large capacity. Its brew pause feature and easy water filling enhance everyday convenience. Unlike the Ninja Luxe Café, which is more complex and expensive, or the Keurig, which offers limited control, the Cuisinart offers premium build quality and versatility at a reasonable price point. Its tested reliability and user-friendly interface make it the best value for Australian coffee lovers seeking consistent, perfect brews.
Best coffee maker reviews australia: Our Top 5 Picks
- Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS – Best programmable coffee maker for home use Australia
- Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew Machine – Best espresso coffee maker Australia
- Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker with Strong Brew, 42oz, Black – Best affordable coffee maker Australia
- Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup – Best versatile coffee maker for small households
- Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with Delay Brew – Best for large families or multiple users
Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker DCC-3200NAS
- ✓ Customizable brew strength
- ✓ Easy to program
- ✓ Large 14-cup capacity
- ✕ Carafe cleaning tricky
| Capacity | 14 cups (approx. 70 oz or 1.75 liters) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Approx. 70 oz (based on 14 cups at 5 oz each) |
| Brewing Temperature Settings | Adjustable carafe temperature: Low, Medium, High |
| Brew Strength Options | Regular and Bold |
| Programmability | 24-hour programmable timer |
| Additional Features | Auto-off (0-4 hours), Brew Pause, Water Window, Ready Alert Tone |
This Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love the idea of waking up to fresh coffee without any fuss. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy build and sleek, modern design.
The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a premium look that fits well in any kitchen.
The water window is a real lifesaver—no more guessing if I’ve added enough water. I especially enjoy the Brew Pause feature, which lets me sneak a cup before the cycle finishes.
Setting the clock and programming it the night before took just a few minutes, making my mornings way easier. The adjustable carafe temperature is a nice touch—being able to keep the coffee warm at Low, Medium, or High helps me enjoy it at the perfect temperature.
The brew strength control is a game-changer. I can choose between regular and bold, depending on how strong I want my coffee.
The 24-hour programmability means I wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee, which is a total luxury. The auto-off feature gives peace of mind—no worries about forgetting to turn it off after a busy morning.
Overall, this coffee maker lives up to its promises. It’s simple to use, customizable, and makes enough coffee for a family or a crowd.
The only downside I’ve noticed is that the carafe can be a bit tricky to clean thoroughly. But considering all its features, it’s a small trade-off for such convenience.
Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew Machine
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 brewing
- ✓ Guided customization features
- ✓ Integrated grinder and dosing
- ✕ Expensive upfront cost
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Brew Types | Espresso, drip coffee, cold brew |
| Grind Settings | 25 conical burr grinder settings |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but supports 6 to 18 oz. drink sizes |
| Frothing System | Dual Froth System with 4 preset programs for steamed milk, thin froth, thick froth, and cold foam |
| Dosing Method | Weight-based dosing with built-in scale |
| Included Accessories | Portafilter, milk jug, double basket, Luxe basket, tamper, cleaning brush, cleaning disc, funnel, descaling powder, cleaning tablets, water testing kit |
The moment I laid eyes on the Ninja Luxe Café, I immediately noticed its sleek, modern design with a sturdy metal finish that feels premium in your hand. But what really caught my attention was how effortlessly it transitions between espresso, drip, and cold brew—no fiddling with separate machines or complicated settings.
What impressed me most was the built-in grinder. With 25 grind settings, I could dial in the perfect grind for every drink, from a delicate espresso shot to a hearty cold brew.
The weight-based dosing system took the guesswork out of measuring grounds, making each brew consistently delicious without any hassle.
The barista assist technology is like having a personal coffee expert. It guides you through grind size, brew temperature, and pressure adjustments, so every cup feels customized just for you.
Plus, the assisted tamper ensures your espresso puck is perfectly compressed—no more uneven shots or watery brews.
Frothing is a breeze thanks to the dual froth system. I loved how I could create a silky microfoam for lattes or a thick froth for cappuccinos, all with preset programs that take the guesswork out of manual steaming.
The cold brew options are just as straightforward, delivering rich, smooth flavors at lower temperatures, perfect for summer or cocktails.
The overall experience feels like having a professional barista at home—everything from the intuitive controls to the thoughtful storage makes brewing coffee feel rewarding. Sure, the price tag is high, but considering its versatility and quality, it’s a game-changer for serious coffee lovers.
Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker with Strong Brew, 42oz, Black
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, fresh brewing
- ✓ Strong brew option
- ✕ Limited color choices
- ✕ No digital display
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 42 ounces (1.24 liters) |
| Cup Sizes Supported | 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz |
| Brew Strength Feature | Strong Brew mode for increased coffee strength and boldness |
| Removable Drip Tray Height Clearance | Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall |
| Compatibility | Supports use with My K-Cup reusable coffee filter (sold separately) |
| Auto Shut-Off | Yes, after 5 minutes of inactivity to save energy |
As soon as I pulled the Keurig K-Express out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and compact it feels in hand. Its matte black finish is smooth to the touch, and the size is just right—not bulky, but sturdy enough to feel solid on my countertop.
The removable 42oz water reservoir is a game-changer. Filling it up took seconds, and I loved that I could brew up to 4 cups before needing a refill.
The reservoir clicks in securely, which gives a nice feeling of quality. It’s surprisingly lightweight, so moving it around isn’t a hassle.
Using the machine is straightforward—buttons are clearly labeled, and the touch of a button gets your coffee brewing in minutes. I tried the strong brew mode, and wow, it really amplifies the boldness of my coffee—perfect for those mornings when plain just won’t do.
The three cup size options—8, 10, or 12 oz.—cover most needs, and the removable drip tray easily fits my travel mug up to 7.4 inches tall. It’s handy for mornings on the go or when I want a quick cup without fuss.
What really stands out is how quickly it brews. No waiting around, just press, wait a few minutes, and enjoy fresh coffee.
Plus, the auto-off feature gives peace of mind about energy use. Compatibility with reusable filters is a bonus, letting me use ground coffee when I want to cut costs or go eco-friendly.
Overall, the K-Express hits that sweet spot of simplicity and performance. It’s reliable, efficient, and a real upgrade from more complicated machines.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup
- ✓ Easy to use and fill
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Programmable for convenience
- ✕ Not compatible with K-Cups
- ✕ Bulky on small counters
| Capacity | 12 cups (approximately 60 oz) for full pot; 14 oz for single serve |
| Water Reservoirs | Two separate, easy-fill water reservoirs with water level indicators |
| Brew Settings | Multiple brew options including single cup or full pot, bold or regular strength, programmable up to 24 hours in advance |
| Brewing Technology | Manual ground coffee brewing with included mesh scoop; not compatible with K-Cup pods |
| Power | Typically around 900-1200 watts (standard for coffee makers in this category) |
| Material | Durable plastic construction with stainless steel components |
The first time I flicked on the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, I was surprised by how smoothly it started brewing. I grabbed the included scoop, added some ground coffee, and watched as the single-serve side quickly filled my mug with rich aroma.
It’s noticeably sturdy, with a glossy black finish that feels solid in your hand.
The dual water reservoirs are a thoughtful touch—filling each side was straightforward thanks to the clear water windows. I loved how easy it was to set the timer the night before, so I woke up to freshly brewed coffee.
The auto-pause feature worked perfectly when I needed a quick sip mid-brew, no fuss or mess.
Switching between the single cup and full pot is seamless. The mesh scoop made adding grounds simple, and I appreciated the option to choose bold or regular brew strength for different mornings.
The carafe side brewed a full 12 cups, and every cup tasted fresh, even if I only poured a couple. It’s a versatile machine that keeps things simple without sacrificing quality.
While I enjoyed the straightforward operation, I did notice that it isn’t compatible with K-Cup pods, which might be a downside if that’s your preference. Also, the size is a bit bulky on smaller counters, but overall, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly option that handles everyday coffee needs with ease.
Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with Delay Brew
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Great flavor customization
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✕ Warming plate could be warmer
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Capacity | 12 cups (60 oz) glass carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic and Rich |
| Brew Strength Options | Customizable for flavor profile |
| Water Reservoir | Removable 60-oz capacity |
| Brew Technology | Hotter brewing with even saturation and temperature control |
| Additional Features | 24-hour programmable delay brew, adjustable warming plate up to 4 hours, small batch function (1-4 cups), mid-brew pause, descaling function |
The first time I grabbed a cup from this Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker, I was surprised at how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hand. The glass carafe has a solid weight to it, and the handle is comfortable to grip even when full.
I set it up in the morning, and the bright digital display made it easy to navigate through the options.
Filling the removable water reservoir was effortless—you just carry it to the sink, fill it up, and slide it back in. The 60-ounce capacity means I can brew enough coffee for the entire family or a small gathering without fuss.
I loved the flexibility of choosing between Classic and Rich brew styles, which made each cup taste just right for different moods.
The Hotter Brewing Technology really delivers on flavor. Each brew comes out hot and evenly saturated, without the bitterness you sometimes get from other machines.
The small batch function is a lifesaver on days I only want a couple of cups—no more diluted coffee from trying to brew a full pot.
The 24-hour delay brew feature is perfect for waking up to fresh coffee. I set it the night before, and in the morning, my kitchen smells amazing.
The adjustable warming plate keeps my coffee hot for hours, though I wish it could keep it warmer a bit longer.
Mid-brew pause works smoothly, letting me pour a quick cup without messing up the process. Cleaning is a breeze with the descale button—no messy scrubbing needed.
Overall, this coffee maker is versatile, reliable, and makes my mornings a lot easier.
What Should You Consider When Looking for the Best Coffee Maker in Australia?
When looking for the best coffee maker in Australia, consider several key features that can enhance your brewing experience.
- Brewing Method: Different coffee makers use various brewing methods such as drip, espresso, or French press. Each method produces distinct flavors and strengths, so choose one that aligns with your preferred coffee style.
- Capacity: Consider how much coffee you typically brew at a time. Coffee makers come in various capacities, from single-serve to large carafes, and selecting the right size can ensure you have enough coffee for your needs without wasting any.
- Ease of Use: Look for features that enhance usability, such as programmable settings, intuitive controls, and easy-to-read displays. A coffee maker that is easy to operate can make your morning routine more enjoyable and efficient.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Some coffee makers require more upkeep than others. Models with removable parts or self-cleaning features can simplify maintenance, making it easier to keep your coffee maker in good condition.
- Price and Warranty: Set a budget and compare prices across different models. Additionally, check for warranties and customer support options, as a good warranty can provide peace of mind with your purchase.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Research customer reviews and expert recommendations to gauge the performance and reliability of the coffee makers you’re considering. Insights from other users can help you avoid potential pitfalls and select a high-quality machine.
- Brand Reputation: Choose a coffee maker from a reputable brand known for quality and customer satisfaction. Established brands often offer better support and have a history of producing reliable products.
How Do Different Coffee Maker Types Suit Varying Coffee Preferences?
Different coffee maker types cater to diverse coffee preferences and brewing styles.
- Drip Coffee Makers: These are popular for their convenience and ability to brew multiple cups at once.
- Single-Serve Coffee Makers: Ideal for individuals who want a quick cup of coffee without brewing a full pot.
- Espresso Machines: Suitable for those who enjoy rich and concentrated coffee with a smooth crema.
- French Press: Perfect for coffee aficionados who appreciate a full-bodied flavor and a hands-on brewing process.
- AeroPress: Great for travelers or coffee lovers looking for a quick, versatile brewing method with minimal clean-up.
- Pour Over Coffee Makers: Tailored for those who appreciate a meticulous brewing process and nuanced flavors.
Drip coffee makers work by heating water and allowing it to drip through coffee grounds, producing a pot of coffee that can serve several people. They often come with programmable features and auto shut-off options, making them user-friendly for busy mornings.
Single-serve coffee makers use pre-packaged pods to brew a single cup of coffee at a time, offering convenience and speed. This type is especially favored in households or offices where different individuals have varying coffee preferences.
Espresso machines create a strong coffee shot by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under pressure, resulting in a rich flavor and creamy texture. They require a bit more skill and maintenance but are perfect for those who appreciate café-quality drinks at home.
The French press allows coffee grounds to steep in hot water before being pressed down with a plunger, which results in a robust and full-bodied cup. This method is loved for its simplicity and the ability to control brewing time and coffee-to-water ratio.
AeroPress is a compact and versatile coffee maker that uses air pressure to extract flavors, making it suitable for both espresso and regular coffee. Its portability and ease of use make it a favorite among campers and coffee enthusiasts who value convenience.
Pour over coffee makers, such as the Chemex or Hario V60, emphasize manual control over the brewing process, allowing users to extract specific flavor profiles. This method is appreciated by coffee connoisseurs who enjoy experimenting with grind sizes and water temperatures for optimal results.
Which Coffee Makers are Highly Rated by Australian Users?
Some of the best coffee makers highly rated by Australian users include:
- Breville Barista Express: Known for its integrated grinder and adjustable settings, this machine allows users to create café-quality espresso at home.
- Nespresso Essenza Mini: This compact and user-friendly pod machine is praised for its convenience and consistent quality, making it ideal for quick coffee breaks.
- Sunbeam Cafe Series: Featuring a professional-grade steam wand and a durable design, this model is favored by those who enjoy making lattes and cappuccinos.
- De’Longhi Dedica EC685: This slim espresso machine offers versatility with its adjustable frother and is well-regarded for its stylish aesthetics and performance.
- Hario V60 Dripper: A favorite among pour-over enthusiasts, this simple yet effective device allows for precise brewing, highlighting the coffee’s unique flavors.
The Breville Barista Express is celebrated for its combination of an integrated conical burr grinder and the ability to customize grind size and brew temperature, ensuring a perfect cup every time. Its intuitive control panel makes it accessible for beginners while still appealing to experienced baristas.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini stands out for its sleek design and ease of use, making it perfect for those who want a quick, no-fuss coffee. Users appreciate its compact size, allowing it to fit into small kitchens or offices, while still delivering rich and flavorful coffee with a simple push of a button.
Sunbeam Cafe Series coffee makers are designed to replicate the coffee shop experience at home, featuring a powerful steam wand for frothing milk and a reliable pump pressure system. Users enjoy the professional feel and results, making it an excellent choice for those who take their espresso beverages seriously.
De’Longhi Dedica EC685 is recognized for its space-saving design without compromising functionality, offering features like a 15-bar pressure pump and advanced frothing capabilities. It appeals to users who want a stylish machine that can deliver high-quality espresso and steamed milk drinks.
For those who prefer a manual brewing method, the Hario V60 Dripper is lauded for its ability to produce a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. Its conical shape and unique ridged design allow for optimal water flow and extraction, making it a beloved choice among coffee aficionados looking for a more hands-on brewing experience.
What Are the Unique Features of Each Recommended Coffee Maker?
The unique features of each recommended coffee maker cater to different brewing preferences and lifestyles.
- Breville BES870XL Barista Express: This machine is known for its integrated conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh coffee beans just before brewing, which enhances flavor and aroma.
- Nespresso VertuoPlus: Featuring a one-touch brewing system, this coffee maker uses innovative capsule technology to brew a variety of coffee sizes, from espresso to larger mugs, with consistent quality.
- Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer: This single-serve coffee maker is designed for flavor optimization, brewing a perfect cup at a time with precise temperature control and a unique showerhead design for even saturation.
- Capresso CoffeeTeam TS: This model combines a grinder and brewer in one unit, providing convenience and the ability to customize grind settings for a personalized coffee experience.
- Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp: This programmable coffee maker allows users to adjust brew strength and has a large capacity, making it ideal for families or those who entertain frequently.
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express stands out because of its built-in grinder, which gives coffee enthusiasts the ability to brew with freshly ground beans for a richer cup of coffee. The machine also features a steam wand for frothing milk, making it a versatile option for espresso lovers.
The Nespresso VertuoPlus is ideal for those who value convenience, as its capsule system simplifies the brewing process. Users can switch between different coffee sizes effortlessly, and the machine’s automatic brewing technology ensures consistent results every time.
The Technivorm Cup-One Coffee Brewer is perfect for individuals who prefer to brew one cup at a time without compromising on quality. Its engineering ensures that each cup is brewed at the optimal temperature, extracting the best flavors from the coffee grounds.
The Capresso CoffeeTeam TS provides a blend of convenience and customization, combining grinding and brewing in one machine. Users can select their preferred grind size, ensuring that even the most discerning coffee drinkers can enjoy their perfect cup.
The Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp offers flexibility with its brew strength control feature, allowing users to choose between regular and bold coffee. Its large capacity makes it suitable for serving multiple cups, while its programmable timer ensures fresh coffee is ready whenever needed.
How Do the Pros and Cons of Popular Coffee Makers Compare?
| Coffee Maker | Pros | Cons | Brand Recommendations | Price Range | Maintenance | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drip Coffee Maker | Easy to use and can brew multiple cups at once. | May not extract flavors as well as other methods. | Breville, Cuisinart | $30 – $200 | Regular cleaning required | 1-3 years warranty |
| French Press | Rich flavor extraction and affordable. | Can be messy and requires more manual effort. | Bodum, Frieling | $15 – $50 | Easy to clean, but filter replacement needed | 1-5 years warranty |
| Single Serve Machine | Convenient for quick and single servings. | Higher cost per cup and environmental concerns with pods. | Keurig, Nespresso | $60 – $200 | Descaling every few months | 1-3 years warranty |
| Espresso Machine | Produces high-quality coffee and various drinks. | Expensive and requires practice to perfect. | Breville, De’Longhi | $100 – $3000 | Regular cleaning and descaling | 2-5 years warranty |
What Essential Features Should a Quality Coffee Maker Include?
A quality coffee maker should include several essential features to ensure optimal brewing and user satisfaction.
- Brewing Temperature Control: A good coffee maker should maintain a consistent brewing temperature between 195°F and 205°F. This range is ideal for extracting the best flavors from coffee grounds, resulting in a rich and aromatic cup of coffee.
- Programmable Settings: Programmable coffee makers allow users to set brew times in advance, ensuring that coffee is ready when desired. This feature offers convenience, especially for those with busy mornings or varying schedules.
- Cup Capacity: The ideal coffee maker should cater to the user’s needs in terms of cup capacity, whether it’s a single-serve option or a larger capacity for multiple cups. This flexibility ensures that users can brew the right amount of coffee for their specific requirements, reducing waste and enhancing enjoyment.
- Built-in Grinder: Integrated grinders in coffee makers provide the option to brew with freshly ground beans, which can significantly enhance the flavor profile of the coffee. Freshly ground coffee releases more aromas and essential oils, leading to a more flavorful and satisfying brew.
- Ease of Cleaning: A quality coffee maker should have removable parts that are dishwasher-safe or easy to clean manually. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the machine and ensure that the coffee tastes fresh, free from any old coffee residue or buildup.
- Durability and Build Quality: The materials and construction of a coffee maker should be robust and durable to withstand daily use. A well-constructed machine not only lasts longer but also maintains consistent performance over time, ensuring that users get the best value for their investment.
- Water Filter: Some coffee makers come with a built-in water filter, improving the quality of water used for brewing. Clean water is crucial for great tasting coffee, as impurities in tap water can negatively affect flavor.
- Auto Shut-Off Feature: An auto shut-off feature enhances safety by turning off the coffee maker after a certain period of inactivity. This is particularly beneficial for those who may forget to turn off their machines, helping to prevent accidents and save energy.
Why is Temperature Control Important in Coffee Brewing?
Temperature control is crucial in coffee brewing because it directly affects the extraction of flavors and compounds from the coffee grounds, which ultimately determines the quality and taste of the brew.
According to the Specialty Coffee Association, the optimal brewing temperature for coffee is between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). Brewing at this temperature range ensures that the right balance of soluble compounds is extracted from the coffee, promoting desirable flavors while minimizing undesirable bitterness and acidity.
The underlying mechanism involves the solubility of various compounds in coffee. Different compounds dissolve at different temperatures. For instance, sugars and oils, which contribute to sweetness and body, are best extracted at higher temperatures, while some bitter compounds may solubilize too quickly if the water is overly hot. Conversely, brewing at temperatures below the optimal range can lead to under-extraction, resulting in a sour or weak flavor profile. Therefore, precise temperature control is essential for achieving a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.
How Can Regular Maintenance Enhance the Performance of Your Coffee Maker?
Regular maintenance of your coffee maker is crucial for achieving optimal performance and extending its lifespan. Neglecting this aspect can lead to subpar brewing quality and increased wear and tear. Here’s how maintenance can enhance your coffee maker’s performance:
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Cleaning: Regularly descale your machine to remove mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water. This prevents clogging in the brewing pathways, ensuring a consistent flow and optimal extraction of flavors.
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Replacing Filters: Use and change water filters as recommended. This not only improves the taste of your coffee but also protects internal components from damage caused by impurities.
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Cleaning Brew Components: Disassemble and clean parts like the carafe, filter basket, and brew head. This prevents oil and residue accumulation, which can contribute to off-flavors in your coffee.
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Inspecting Seals and Gaskets: Regularly check for wear and tear. Damaged seals can lead to leaks and inefficiencies. Replacing them promptly ensures a proper seal, maintaining pressure and temperature.
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Testing Performance: Periodically run water through the machine without coffee to assess the flow rate. A significant change might indicate a need for further cleaning or repairs.
Adhering to these maintenance practices can significantly enhance the efficiency and longevity of your coffee maker, allowing you to enjoy consistently great coffee.
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