Ember Mug 3 Review: Smart Heating Has Flaws, But Keeps Drinks Warm

Ember has released its third-generation smart mug, the Ember Mug 3, priced at $150. While the device successfully maintains drink temperatures for extended periods, reviewers note significant drawbacks regarding its companion app, battery performance, and impact on beverage flavor.

The ceramic mug holds 14 ounces and weighs considerably more than standard mugs due to the internal heating element and battery. It is top-rack dishwasher safe and features a subtle LED indicator under the logo. The device sits on a charging coaster that also serves as a resting surface, though users are cautioned against spilling liquid on it.

Battery life while off the charger is adequate, with users reporting the ability to finish a full cup before the power drains. However, issues arise when relying on the coaster for maintenance charging. One reviewer found that setting the mug to 145 degrees Fahrenheit depleted the battery within two hours, with the slow charging speed failing to keep up. The mug uses a two-pin pogo pin charger rather than the more common Qi wireless standard, and the coaster connects to power via a barrel plug instead of USB-C, which some users may find inconvenient.

The most cited complaint involves the Ember mobile application. Setup is straightforward, allowing users to dial in precise temperatures. However, connectivity issues are frequent. Users report that the mug often ignores command updates from the app, remaining locked to previous settings. Bluetooth pairing fails roughly half the time, and error messages appear upon launching the app. For hardware adjustments without the app, users can press a single button on the bottom of the mug to cycle through preset temperatures, a feature that becomes awkward when the mug is full.

Keeping coffee at high temperatures for long periods alters its chemical composition and taste. After one hour at 140 degrees, a pour-over coffee lost fruity notes and developed a bitter, over-extracted flavor. The reviewer eventually settled on 120 degrees for daily use. Milk-based drinks like lattes were less affected, retaining their quality for about two hours. Herbal teas, such as Sleepytime, benefited from the sustained heat, with flavor reportedly improving over time.

Despite these technical and culinary issues, the core function of delivering a hot drink hours after preparation remains satisfying. However, the $150 price point is steep compared to competitors. The original Ember Mug launched in 2017 for $80, which equates to roughly $108 today adjusting for inflation. Cheaper alternatives exist, such as the Ohm Ui Inkstone available at Crate & Barrel for approximately $110, which offers similar heating functions with a minimalist design. Historical Black Friday sales have seen Ember Mugs drop to record-low prices, suggesting that waiting for a discount may be a prudent strategy for potential buyers.