Ember’s new temperature-controlled mug makes my nightly tea ritual even better

Key points

• Ember's Mug 3 adds a bottom button that cycles through five preset temperatures from 125 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The mug holds a set temperature for up to three hours per charge and is the first Ember mug that is top-rack dishwasher-safe.
• The 10-ounce Mug 3 costs $129 and the 14-ounce version costs $149, sold on Ember's site, Target and Amazon.

Ember has released the Mug 3, the third generation of its temperature-controlled smart mug, according to a TechCrunch review. The mug is designed to hold a drink at a chosen temperature while the user sips, addressing the common problem of returning to a lukewarm cup after getting distracted.

The main change is that users can now adjust temperature without opening the app. A button on the bottom of the mug cycles through five presets, starting at 125 degrees Fahrenheit and rising five degrees per press to a maximum of 145 degrees.

App and other upgrades

The Ember app still works over Bluetooth and offers presets by drink type. Ember recommends 136 degrees Fahrenheit for black coffee, 132 degrees for green tea and 142 degrees for lemon water, and users can create their own presets.

The Mug 3 has a sliding lid to help prevent spills and keeps a drink at its set temperature for up to three hours on one charge. It is Ember's first top-rack dishwasher-safe mug, but it is not microwave-safe.

Being able to adjust my drink without getting up to find it is a small convenience, but one I genuinely appreciate.

— TechCrunch reviewer Lauren Forristal

Pricing and availability

The Mug 3 comes in a 10-ounce model for $129 and a 14-ounce version for $149. The smaller size is sold in black, white and stainless steel, while the larger one comes in eight colors.

Ember also introduced the Tumbler 2, a 16-ounce model with a slimmer, taller design meant to fit standard car cup holders. It is available in black for $179, and the Travel Mug 2 will remain on sale until supplies run out. The products are sold on Ember's website, Target and Amazon.

The reviewer's complaint

The reviewer said the on-mug button was the feature used most during testing, since it avoids reaching for a phone at night. The reviewer also noted that some users have reported connectivity or pairing issues with the Ember app.

The complaint was the button's location on the bottom of the mug. The reviewer called it a peculiar design choice for a cup of hot liquid and said it was not easy to press, often requiring the mug to be tilted and pressed firmly.