A Critique of the Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 - 2025
Ember Mug 2
Ember Mug 2: Is the Smart Heated Mug Worth the Hype for Coffee and Tea Lovers?
If you're the kind of person who sets down their coffee only to return to a cold cup, the Ember Mug 2 might seem like a dream come true. This sleek, app-connected heated mug promises to keep your beverage at your ideal temperature for up to 1.5 hours. But is this smart mug a gimmick, or does it actually change your daily coffee ritual for the better? Here's my full critique of the Ember Mug 2 so you can decide whether it deserves a permanent place on your desk.
Ember Mug 2
At first glance, the Ember Mug 2 looks like a stylish ceramic mug, but under the surface is a lithium-ion battery-powered heating system and Bluetooth connectivity. Once paired with the Ember app (available on iOS and Android), you can set your desired temperature (from 120°F to 145°F), track remaining battery life, and even name your mug.
The mug automatically enters sleep mode when empty or idle, and wakes up when it detects movement or liquid. While the mug can technically work without the app, the best experience comes from using them together. You'll also find the battery lasts about 80 to 90 minutes off the charging coaster, which makes it ideal for slow sippers.
The build is high-quality with a matte finish (available in several colors and sizes: 10 oz and 14 oz), and hand-washing is required — it's not dishwasher-safe. Cleaning is easy enough, but that might be a dealbreaker for some.
Pros:
Maintains exact drinking temperature for up to 90 minutes
Sleek, minimalist design and premium build
Easy-to-use app with helpful customization
Works on or off coaster; charges quickly when docked
Cons:
Pricey for a coffee mug
Not dishwasher-safe; hand-wash only
Bluetooth syncing occasionally requires resets
Battery can’t last a full morning for heavy drinkers
Ember Mug 2
If you’re investing in the Ember Mug 2, there are several optional and complementary products that can enhance your experience or make it more practical.
The first is the charging coaster, which comes included with the mug but can be purchased separately for multiple desks or rooms. This magnetic dock ensures your mug is always powered and ready to go, perfect for those who work from more than one location.
Next, consider Ember’s travel case. It’s a padded, zippered carrier that protects your mug on the go — ideal for remote workers, travelers, or gift-givers who want to present it in style.
If you want to give the mug as a premium gift, Ember also offers custom engraving options and limited-edition color finishes (like rose gold or stainless steel), which are seasonal and typically cost a bit more.
For cleaning, Ember sells specialty cleaning tablets and silicone scrub pads that are gentle on the internal heating plate but effective at removing tannin and coffee oil buildup. You’ll want to use these every couple of weeks if you drink dark brews or tea regularly.
Lastly, if you want a similar experience for the car, the Ember Travel Mug 2 offers temperature control in a spill-resistant format with a digital touchscreen. It’s more expensive but caters to commuters and drivers.
The Ember Mug 2 is undoubtedly a luxury for your morning routine — but for many, it’s a worthwhile one. If you’re someone who’s constantly microwaving their drink, or you genuinely enjoy sipping slowly without sacrificing flavor or temperature, this smart mug makes a subtle but meaningful improvement. It’s not for everyone, and the high price might turn off casual drinkers, but as a premium coffee or tea accessory, it hits the mark.
