Thermal carafes are said to be a better alternative for holding your coffee's heat and boiling it for hours. On the other hand, Retro coffee machines usually come with a glass carafe. They are less expensive than their heated equivalent and can be used as a lovely jug for serving guests. A key disadvantage of glass carafe coffee makers is reliance on a hotplate to keep the coffee warm. When the coffee is left on the hot plate for too long, it might develop a burnt flavor.