I was asked to review the thermal carafe and coffee maker. I'm a former Bun coffee pot user and swore I'd never changed. Upon receiving this pot I reluctantly decided it wouldn't hurt to give it a whirl. I fell in love! he pot isn't hot to touch and there is n burner. This pot is one of the most kid friendly in the sense that little fingers will not get burned in the case of an accidental touch. The flavor of the coffee is robust and stays hot in the carafe for over two hours. I am completely happy with this product.