For years, multi brew coffee makers have lacked true flexibility—until now. After hands-on testing, I can tell you the Ninja Drip & K-Cup Coffee Maker CFP301 stands out for its incredible variety of brewing options. It offers 13 brewing sizes, from small sips to full carafes, and handles grounds or pods effortlessly. The quick brew time and specialty brew options are real game-changers when you’re in a rush or craving a café-style drink at home.
What sets it apart? The separate hot water system means no cross-flavor contamination, and the built-in frother makes creating lattes or cappuccinos simple. Plus, its multi-position water reservoir saves counter space. Compared to the Braun MultiServe, which has fewer brew size options and lacks a frother, or the Keurig K-Duo, which doesn’t match the Ninja’s versatility in brewing styles—I found the Ninja CFP301 delivers the best mix of features, quality, and value. Trust me, this machine truly covers all your coffee needs in one sleek package.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Drip & K-Cup Coffee Maker CFP301
Why We Recommend It: This model’s key advantages include 4 brew styles, multiple brew sizes, and a specialty brew function for rich concentrates. Its independent hot water system adds versatility, perfect for tea or quick soups. It surpasses competitors with its fast brewing, frother, and space-efficient water reservoir, making it a standout choice for any coffee lover.
Best multi brew coffee maker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Drip & K-Cup Coffee Maker CFP301 – Best Multi-Use Coffee Maker
- Braun MultiServe Plus 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Hot & Cold – Best Multi-Function Coffee Maker
- Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz Reservoir – Best Dual Brew Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar 4-in-1 Coffee Maker, – Best Value
- Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker, 6 Brew Styles, 8 Sizes, CM401 – Best Multifunctional Coffee Maker
Ninja Drip & K-Cup Coffee Maker CFP301
- ✓ Very versatile brewing options
- ✓ Faster brew times
- ✓ Great for coffee & tea
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ More complex setup
| Brew Sizes | 5 grounds brew sizes (Small, XL Cup, Travel, XL Travel Mug), 4 carafe sizes (¼, ½, ¾, Full Carafe), 6-12 oz traditional pod sizes |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 60 ounces |
| Temperature Settings | Two settings: hot and boil |
| Brewing Speed | Brew a coffee pod faster than a leading Keurig coffee maker upon startup |
| Special Features | Independent hot water system, specialty brew for coffee concentrates, built-in fold-away frother |
| Compatibility | Compatible with K-Cups and coffee grounds |
Right out of the box, what catches your eye is how versatile this Ninja Drip & K-Cup Coffee Maker is. Unlike other multi-brew machines that stick to just one style, this one practically covers every coffee need you could have.
The 13-size dual system is a game-changer—you can go from a quick 6oz cup to a full carafe without switching machines.
The quick brew feature is noticeable right away. It heats up faster than most Keurig models, which is perfect when you’re rushing in the morning.
Plus, the compatibility with K-Cups and ground coffee means you’re not locked into one brand or type. You can mix things up with your favorite beans or pods, depending on your mood.
The four brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—really deliver on flavor. I loved how easy it was to select exactly what I wanted, whether hot coffee, iced brew, or tea.
The separate hot water system is a nice touch for making soups or oatmeal without messing up your coffee flavor.
The fold-away frother is surprisingly effective for making lattes or cappuccinos. It’s simple to use and clean, which is a plus for busy mornings.
The water reservoir’s multi-position design helps it fit in tight spaces—no more awkwardly trying to squeeze the machine into a corner.
Overall, this machine offers a lot for its size, making it perfect for anyone who wants variety and speed in one device. It’s a solid upgrade from basic single-brew models, especially if you love experimenting with different drinks.
Braun MultiServe Plus 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Hot & Cold
- ✓ Fast brewing technology
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✓ Pod-free, eco-friendly design
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Learning curve for settings
| Capacity | 10 cups (approximately 1.25 liters) |
| Brewing Options | Multiple settings including Over Ice, Cold Brew, Gold, and Bold |
| Cold Brew Preparation Time | Less than 13 minutes |
| Hot Water Function | Yes |
| Brewing Speed | Full pot in under 8 minutes |
| Adjustable Brew Size | 7 options including single cup, travel mug, and full carafe |
While flipping through my kitchen drawers, I stumbled upon a tiny coffee scoop tucked away behind some old utensils. It made me realize how much I rely on simplicity—until I met the Braun MultiServe Plus.
Suddenly, I was surprised by how much this machine could do beyond just brewing a basic pot.
First, I tested the BrewChoice Plus feature. With just a tap, I switched from a bold, hot brew to an icy cold brew in minutes.
Honestly, I didn’t expect cold brew to be so quick—I was used to waiting overnight or hours. The flavor was smooth, not watered down, which totally impressed me.
Then, I played with the MultiServe dial. It’s super easy to choose between a single cup, travel mug, or a full carafe.
No fussing with complicated buttons—just turn the dial, and you’re set. The pod-free design feels more eco-friendly and saves money in the long run.
The FastBrew feature is a game-changer. I timed it—less than 8 minutes for a full pot of piping hot coffee.
It’s perfect for busy mornings or when guests arrive unexpectedly. Plus, the hot water function adds versatility, making tea or instant oats a breeze.
Overall, I was surprised by how versatile and fast this machine is. It takes up space but replaces several gadgets.
If you love options and quick results, this could really streamline your mornings.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz Reservoir
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Large, easy-fill reservoir
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✕ Slightly louder than expected
- ✕ Button layout can be busy
| Reservoir Capacity | 72 ounces |
| Brew Sizes | 6, 8, 10, 12 ounces for single cups; 6, 8, 10, 12 cups for carafe |
| Brewing Technology | MultiStream technology for even saturation |
| Brew Types | K-Cup pods and ground coffee |
| Special Features | Brew over ice, strong brew, extra hot, programmable auto brew |
| Carafe Capacity | 12-cup glass carafe |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the Keurig K-Duo is its sleek, compact design. Despite packing a lot of features, it feels surprisingly lightweight and well-balanced in your hand.
The shiny black finish with subtle silver accents looks modern and fits nicely on your countertop without taking up too much space.
Holding it, you notice the large, removable 72oz reservoir. It’s easy to fill and fits comfortably on the side, making refills a breeze.
The front-facing control panel is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons and a small digital display that feels straightforward to navigate.
Using the machine for the first time, you love how versatile it is—brewing both K-Cup pods and ground coffee. The MultiStream technology really does saturate grounds evenly, delivering rich aroma and full flavor every time.
The brew over ice feature is a game-changer, adjusting temperature to prevent ice melt and keep your cold brew tasting fresh.
The options for brew sizes are convenient, from a quick 6oz shot to a full 12oz cup or a large 12-cup carafe. The carafe itself is sturdy, with a well-designed lid that limits drips.
The pause and pour feature means you don’t have to wait for the entire brew to finish before pouring your first cup.
Setting up the programmable auto brew is simple, perfect for mornings when you want your coffee ready without rushing. The extra hot setting and strong brew mode add customization for those days you need that extra kick or a hotter cup.
Overall, this machine combines multiple brewing options with ease of use, making your daily coffee routine much more flexible and enjoyable.
Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar 4-in-1 Coffee Maker,
- ✓ 4-in-1 versatile brewing
- ✓ Easy to program
- ✓ Compatible with pods and capsules
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Smaller water reservoir
| Capacity | Up to 12 cups (approx. 5 oz. per cup) |
| Brewing Options | Single-serve (6 oz., 8 oz., 10 oz.), 4-in-1 brewing including espresso, cappuccino, and latte |
| Water Reservoir | Not explicitly specified, but designed for multiple brewing modes including espresso and drip coffee |
| Compatibility | Keurig K-Cup and other single-serve pods; Nespresso OriginalLine capsules |
| Brewing Control | Adjustable brew strength, programmable with 24-hour timer, Keep Warm function up to 4 hours |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for multi-function coffee makers approximately 1500W |
Imagine waking up and discovering your coffee machine can do just about everything—like it’s got a secret superhero power. That’s exactly what I felt when I unboxed the Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar 4-in-1.
It’s surprisingly compact for a machine that brews up to 12 cups, yet it packs a punch with its versatility.
The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek, modern design. It feels sturdy but not bulky, with a clear, easy-to-read control panel.
The fully automatic brewing with 24-hour programmability makes it super convenient—set it the night before, and coffee is ready when you wake up. Plus, the Keep Warm function lasts up to 4 hours, so your brew stays hot without drying out.
What really surprised me was how well it handled different brewing styles. I tested the single-serve option with Keurig K-Cups and Nespresso capsules, and both worked flawlessly.
The brew strength control lets you customize the flavor, which is great when you want a milder or bolder cup. The included gold-tone filter and charcoal water filter make every sip taste fresh and clean.
Using the cappuccino and espresso functions is a game-changer. The machine’s compact steam wand really froths milk nicely, turning your morning into a fancy coffee shop experience.
The three single-serve sizes fit all my mood swings from quick 6 oz. shots to a larger 10 oz.
brew. Overall, it’s a versatile, easy-to-use machine that covers most coffee cravings in one place.
Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker, 6 Brew Styles, 8 Sizes, CM401
- ✓ Versatile brew styles
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ No pods needed
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Small water reservoir
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 40 ounces (approximately 1.2 liters) |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty Brew |
| Brew Sizes | Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, Multi-Serve Travel Mug, Half Carafe, Full Carafe |
| Frother Type | Built-in fold-away milk frother with removable whisk |
| Power Source | Electric, standard household outlet |
| Material | Stainless steel and BPA-free plastic components |
There’s nothing more frustrating than brewing a perfect cup of coffee only to find it watered down or lacking in flavor, especially when you want variety. The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker instantly changed that for me.
I was able to switch from a bold, rich brew to a smooth iced coffee, all with a few taps.
The 4 brew styles give you a lot of flexibility. I love how easy it is to choose between Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty Brew.
The Specialty setting, in particular, makes a concentrated shot perfect for lattes and macchiatos. Plus, brewing over ice results in a flavorful iced coffee—never watered down, like some machines tend to do.
The six different sizes are a game-changer. Whether I want a quick cup, a travel mug, or a full carafe for guests, it’s all possible without juggling multiple devices.
The removable water reservoir is a huge plus—filling and cleaning are simple since I can carry it to the sink.
The built-in fold-away frother is surprisingly powerful. It turns milk into silky foam in seconds, and I appreciate how easy it is to clean.
No more fussing with separate milk frothers or complicated attachments. Everything from the glass carafe to the filter holder is dishwasher safe, which saves me time on cleanup.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The machine is a bit bulky on the counter, and the water reservoir could be larger for heavy coffee drinkers.
Still, for the versatility and quality of brews, it’s a solid upgrade to my kitchen routine.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Multi Brew Coffee Maker?
When choosing a multi brew coffee maker, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your brewing needs and preferences.
- Brewing Options: A good multi brew coffee maker should offer various brewing options such as drip coffee, single-serve, and even specialty drinks like espresso or cappuccino. This versatility allows you to experiment with different coffee styles and caters to varying preferences among users.
- Capacity: Consider the capacity of the coffee maker, which is typically measured in cups. If you often brew for a larger group or family, a multi brew coffee maker with a higher capacity will save you time and the hassle of multiple brews.
- Ease of Use: Look for a coffee maker that is user-friendly with intuitive controls, clear displays, and minimal setup requirements. Features like programmable settings can enhance convenience, allowing you to wake up to freshly brewed coffee.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: A coffee maker that is easy to clean will save you time and ensure better tasting coffee. Features such as removable brew baskets, dishwasher-safe parts, and self-cleaning modes can greatly simplify the maintenance process.
- Customization Features: The best multi brew coffee makers often come with customization options such as adjustable brew strength, temperature settings, and flavor settings. This allows you to tailor your coffee experience to your personal taste preferences.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions and style of the coffee maker should fit your kitchen space and aesthetic. A compact design can be valuable if counter space is limited, while a stylish machine can complement your kitchen decor.
- Durability and Warranty: Investing in a durable coffee maker with good build quality ensures longevity. Additionally, a solid warranty can provide peace of mind regarding potential repairs or replacements in the future.
- Price: Determine your budget, as multi brew coffee makers come in a range of prices. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, consider the features and quality to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
How Does Brew Variety Impact Your Coffee Enjoyment?
- Flavor Profile: Different brew methods can extract unique flavors from the coffee beans, which can enhance your tasting experience.
- Caffeine Content: Various brewing techniques can yield different caffeine levels, affecting your energy boost and enjoyment.
- Brewing Time: The time required for each brewing method can influence your schedule and how you savor your coffee.
- Texture and Body: The brew variety determines the mouthfeel and body of the coffee, contributing to its overall richness.
- Versatility: A multi brew coffee maker allows you to experiment with different types of coffee, such as espresso, drip, or French press.
Flavor Profile: Different brewing methods, such as pour-over, espresso, or French press, can highlight various characteristics of the coffee beans. For example, a pour-over may emphasize bright acidity and fruity notes, while a French press can bring out a fuller, richer body. This allows coffee enthusiasts to explore a wide range of flavors and aromas based on their chosen brew method.
Caffeine Content: The method of brewing can also affect the amount of caffeine extracted from the coffee grounds. Espresso brewing typically results in a concentrated shot with high caffeine per ounce, whereas methods like cold brew often yield a smoother, less acidic cup with a different caffeine profile. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right brew for your energy needs.
Brewing Time: Each brewing method has its own time requirements, which can affect your daily routine and coffee enjoyment. Quick methods like espresso take only seconds to brew, while others, like cold brew, can take several hours. This variation allows you to select a brewing method that fits your lifestyle and how you prefer to enjoy your coffee.
Texture and Body: The brewing process plays a significant role in the texture and body of the coffee. For example, a French press typically results in a thicker, more viscous coffee due to the oils and fine particles that remain in the cup, whereas a drip coffee maker produces a cleaner and lighter brew. This aspect can enhance the sensory experience of drinking coffee.
Versatility: Investing in the best multi brew coffee maker allows you to enjoy a range of brewing techniques from a single machine. This versatility enables you to switch between different coffee styles, such as brewing a single cup of espresso one day and a full pot of drip coffee the next. Having the freedom to experiment can greatly enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of coffee.
What Should You Know About the Size and Capacity of Your Coffee Maker?
When choosing the best multi brew coffee maker, understanding its size and capacity is crucial for your brewing needs.
- Size: The physical dimensions of the coffee maker can affect where you place it in your kitchen.
- Water Reservoir Capacity: The size of the water reservoir determines how many cups of coffee you can brew before needing to refill.
- Brew Capacity: This refers to the maximum number of cups the coffee maker can brew in one cycle and is essential for serving multiple people.
- Footprint: The footprint is the amount of counter space the coffee maker occupies, which is important for smaller kitchens.
- Storage Requirements: Consider how much storage space you have for the coffee maker when it’s not in use, especially for larger models.
The physical dimensions of the coffee maker can affect where you place it in your kitchen. It’s important to measure your counter space and ensure that the coffee maker will fit comfortably without overcrowding your other appliances.
The size of the water reservoir determines how many cups of coffee you can brew before needing to refill. A larger reservoir is beneficial for busy households or offices, as it reduces the frequency of refilling and allows for multiple brews in succession without interruption.
This refers to the maximum number of cups the coffee maker can brew in one cycle and is essential for serving multiple people. If you often entertain guests or have a large family, a coffee maker with a higher brew capacity will save time and ensure everyone gets their coffee quickly.
The footprint is the amount of counter space the coffee maker occupies, which is important for smaller kitchens. A compact design may be necessary if counter space is limited, allowing you to maximize functionality without sacrificing too much room.
Consider how much storage space you have for the coffee maker when it’s not in use, especially for larger models. Some coffee makers may be bulky and require more storage space, while others are designed for easy storage when not actively being used.
Which Multi Brew Coffee Makers Are Highly Rated by Consumers?
Some of the best multi brew coffee makers highly rated by consumers include:
- Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: This versatile coffee maker allows users to brew a single cup using ground coffee or K-Cups, as well as a full pot of coffee. It features a programmable timer and a removable cup rest for easy cleaning, making it a convenient choice for both small and large servings.
- Breville BDC450 Precision Brewer: Known for its precise brewing capabilities, this coffee maker offers multiple brewing modes, including drip, pour-over, and cold brew. It has a customizable temperature and bloom time settings, ensuring that users can achieve their desired flavor profile for different types of coffee.
- Cuisinart DCC-3200P1 Perfectemp: This model features a 14-cup capacity and an adjustable brew strength controller, allowing users to select between regular and bold coffee. The self-cleaning function and the 24-hour programmable feature add to its convenience, making it suitable for busy households.
- Keurig K-Elite: This single-serve coffee maker is compatible with K-Cups and offers various brew sizes, from 4 to 12 ounces. Its strong brew option enhances the flavor of the coffee, and the iced setting allows users to brew over ice for a refreshing drink.
- Black+Decker CM6750: This multi brew coffee maker can brew both single cups and full pots, with a built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds. It features a simple control panel and a programmable timer, making it user-friendly and efficient for those who appreciate fresh coffee.
What Brands Stand Out in the Multi Brew Coffee Maker Market?
Several brands are notable in the multi brew coffee maker market for their innovative features and quality brews:
- Hamilton Beach: Known for its affordability, Hamilton Beach offers multi brew coffee makers that allow users to brew a single cup or a full pot. Their models often include features like programmable settings and a built-in grinder, making it easy to customize each brew.
- Keurig: A leader in single-serve coffee technology, Keurig has expanded into multi brew options that can accommodate both K-Cup pods and ground coffee. Their machines are celebrated for their convenience and speed, allowing users to enjoy a fresh cup in just minutes.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart’s multi brew coffee makers are known for their sleek designs and versatility, often featuring options for brewing various coffee styles, including espresso and cold brew. Many models come with thermal carafes to keep coffee hot for longer periods without a hot plate, preserving flavor.
- Breville: Breville stands out in the premium segment with its multi brew coffee makers that emphasize high-quality espresso and coffee preparation. Their machines often include advanced technology for precise temperature control and pressure, catering to coffee enthusiasts who value craftsmanship in their brews.
- Ninja: Ninja coffee makers are recognized for their unique brewing technology that allows for multiple brew sizes and styles, including specialty brews and iced coffee. Many models come equipped with a built-in frother, enabling users to create café-style drinks at home.
- Mr. Coffee: A classic brand in the coffee-making space, Mr. Coffee offers multi brew machines that are both user-friendly and reliable. Their models typically feature simple controls and a variety of brew options, making them accessible for coffee drinkers of all experience levels.
How Do Customer Reviews Compare Among Different Models?
| Model | Average Rating | Positive Reviews | Negative Reviews | Price | Total Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model A | 4.5/5 – Highly rated for versatility | 85% – Many users love the brewing options | 15% – Some issues with durability (specific mention of leaking) | $199 – Considered reasonable for its features | 200 – High volume of feedback |
| Model B | 4.0/5 – Good reviews but fewer features | 75% – Users appreciate the simplicity | 25% – Complaints about temperature control (not heating adequately) | $149 – Budget-friendly option | 150 – Moderate feedback volume |
| Model C | 4.8/5 – Excellent feedback on performance | 90% – Praised for coffee quality | 10% – A few found it complicated to use (issues with setup) | $249 – Premium priced model | 300 – High feedback volume |
How Do Multi Brew Coffee Makers Differ From Other Types of Coffee Makers?
Multi brew coffee makers offer unique versatility compared to traditional coffee makers, allowing users to brew different types of beverages.
- Versatility: Multi brew coffee makers can brew a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and more.
- Single-Serve Options: Many models feature single-serve capabilities, allowing users to brew one cup at a time using pods or ground coffee.
- Customization: Users can often customize brew strength, temperature, and size, catering to individual preferences.
- Integrated Features: Some models include built-in grinders or milk frothers, enhancing the brewing experience and expanding beverage options.
- Space Efficiency: Multi brew coffee makers are typically designed to occupy less counter space while providing multiple brewing functionalities.
Multi brew coffee makers can brew a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and more, making them suitable for households with diverse beverage preferences.
Many models feature single-serve capabilities, allowing users to brew one cup at a time using pods or ground coffee, which is ideal for those who want convenience and minimal waste.
Users can often customize brew strength, temperature, and size, catering to individual preferences, ensuring that each cup meets their specific taste requirements.
Some models include built-in grinders or milk frothers, enhancing the brewing experience and expanding beverage options, such as lattes and cappuccinos for coffee lovers.
Multi brew coffee makers are typically designed to occupy less counter space while providing multiple brewing functionalities, making them a practical choice for kitchens with limited space.
What Price Range Should You Expect for a Quality Multi Brew Coffee Maker?
The price range for a quality multi brew coffee maker can vary significantly based on features and brand, typically falling between $50 and $300.
- Budget Models ($50 – $100): These coffee makers often include basic brewing functions, allowing users to make coffee using ground coffee or pods. While they may lack advanced features such as programmable settings or built-in grinders, they can still deliver decent coffee quality for casual drinkers.
- Mid-Range Models ($100 – $200): In this range, you can find coffee makers that offer a wider variety of brewing options, including single-serve and full pot capabilities. Many of these models come with programmable features, better build quality, and may include milk frothers and integrated grinders for a more versatile brewing experience.
- Premium Models ($200 – $300): Premium multi brew coffee makers often feature advanced technology, such as customizable brew strength, temperature control, and smart connectivity. They are designed for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality brews and versatility, often allowing for espresso, drip coffee, and specialty drinks all in one device.
How Can You Properly Maintain Your Multi Brew Coffee Maker?
Proper Storage: If you do not use your multi brew coffee maker daily, ensure it is stored in a safe environment away from potential spills or exposure to moisture. This will help maintain its functionality and appearance over time.
What Cleaning Tips Should You Follow for Optimal Performance?
For optimal performance of your multi-brew coffee maker, adhering to a routine cleaning schedule is essential. Regular maintenance prevents the buildup of coffee oils and mineral deposits that can adversely affect flavor and functionality. Here are some cleaning tips:
-
Daily Cleaning: After each use, clean the brew basket and carafe with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
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Weekly Maintenance: Run a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar through a brew cycle. This helps eliminate limescale and mineral deposits. Follow up with a couple of cycles using plain water to rinse out the vinegar.
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Descaling: Depending on your water hardness, consider descaling your machine every 1-3 months. Use a commercial descaling solution or a vinegar-water mix to prevent clogs and ensure efficient brewing.
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Check Filters: Replace or clean coffee filters regularly to maintain flavor integrity. If the machine has a permanent filter, rinse it well after each use.
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Wipe Down Exterior: Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior and keep the control panel free from coffee spills and stains.
Implementing these cleaning routines will enhance the longevity and performance of your multi-brew coffee maker.
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