Using the Moka pot is one of the best ways to experience the coffee brewing process. It’s a classic way of brewing coffee and has been around for years. With this kitchen masterpiece, you will see how coffee is brewed in a more traditional and household method. Not only that but you will also produce a deliciously concentrated batch of coffee. The fantastic thing about stovetops espresso makers is that they are very affordable and are a fraction of the cost of a home espresso machine.
There are different Moka pot designs under various brand names. Therefore, one has to be very careful in selecting one that will serve, last long, and work with the existing stove you have at home. Well, you don’t have to worry too much about how to go about the selection process because there’s a complete guide here for you. I have also added a few products you can consider when you are in the market or purchasing online.
What makes a good Moka Pot?
This is the question that every coffee lover must find an answer to before heading towards the market for their Moka Pot. It will guide them on what to look out for when scouting through shops and online stores. To answer the question, there are four things that make up a good stovetop espresso maker. The four factors are quality, material, size, and stove compatibility. They are also factors to consider when buying a Moka pot.
I will go into them in detail soon, but before then, I urge you to get yourself something chill or, better still, a cup of coffee, and make yourself comfortable because it’s going to be a long article!! Stay tuned.
Quality of the Moka Pot
The quality of the Moka pot depends on the material from which it’s made. However, you will want to determine the quality of a Moka pot based on the manufacturing brand at this stage. Since the very beginning of trading, there has been a significant link between quality and the producing brands’ status. Therefore, people always love to go for products that are manufactured by reputable brands.
As Microsoft, Samsung, and Apple are reputable in the technology world, so are companies like Bialetti that have gained the trust of many coffee drinkers with their high-quality stovetop espresso makers. Bialetti, the Italian legend, is the leading brand, followed by and not limited to Cuisinox, De Longhi, Tops Rapid, and Colletti whose products are going to be mentioned in this review.
Aluminium or Stainless Steel?
Aluminium and Stainless steel are the two materials used in manufacturing Moka pots. They are both strong and durable and give the Moka pots a nice appealing shine. However, among the two, stainless steel is the most preferable. Stainless steel Moka pots are much more beautiful in terms of their aesthetic and tend to hold up for decades. Stainless steel stovetop espresso makers are easy-to-clean and non-porous, which makes it non-corrosive. The only con of Stainless steel Moka pots is that they are more expensive.
On the other hand, Aluminium will also last for years but will depreciate as throughout heavy usage. Another thing is that Aluminium is porous, which means that it possesses tiny holes on its surface. These holes serve as hideouts for oil and small coffee particles, and therefore, Aluminium Moka pots need to be cleaned on every use.
Users must also avoid the use of soap and rough sponges because those will further expose its surface. Hot water and a soft wiper are enough for cleaning Aluminium Moka Pot. And since you can’t scrub hard to remove all the leftover stale coffee, the flavour of your new brews will be affected in time. For all these reasons and rules, some people think that Aluminium Moka pots are too complicated to use, but you are good to go if you are cool with the cleaning routine. The worst is that Aluminium is corrosive. They will begin to rust on exposure to oxygen and strong acids.
Size of the Moka Pot
Why would anyone care about the size? You have to because it dictates the level of comfort and satisfaction that you will obtain from your Moka pot. Imagine the stress of having to clean and reuse your stovetop coffee makers’ multiple times to make espressos for your siblings or friends that are visiting. It would be much better to make all the necessary cups in just one brew, right?
How do you get this done? By buying the right size of Moka pot. According to coffee traditions, friends and relatives should drink from the same brew. Actually, I am not sure about that rule, and I don’t even think there was/is a coffee tradition like that. The coffee tradition statement was meant to be a joke. However, the most reasonable option is to make one batch in one go.
You may want to consider the smallest Moka pot size if you live alone or are the only coffee lover in the house. But if you have one or more coffee connoisseurs around you then if It’s advisable to get a bigger size. Other sizes include 6-cup, 9-cup, and 12-cup. Keep in mind that the stovetop coffee maker’s cup is not equal in size to that of your regular coffee cup. One Moka pot cup is about two ounces of liquid coffee, meaning that the 3-cup Moka pot will brew six ounces of liquid coffee.
MOKA POT SIZE | COFFEE IN OZ. | WATER MEASURE (COFFEE IN ML) | COFFEE IN GM. (SPECIALITY BREW) | COFFEE IN GM. |
1 CUP | 2 OZ. | 60 ML | 4 GM | 8 GM |
3 CUP | 6.05 OZ. | 200 ML | 12 GM | 26 GM |
6-CUP | 10 OZ. | 300 ML | 18 GM | 40 GM |
9-CUP | 18.05 OZ. | 550 ML | 33 GM | 72 GM |
12-CUP | 25 OZ. | 775 ML | 47 GM | 100 GM |
Compatibility
It’s also important to consider the compatibility of the Moka pot you are about to purchase with the stovetop you have at home unless you are willing to buy a new matching stovetop. Some Moka pots are designed with a base that works for a special stovetop. However, the Stainless steel stovetop espresso makers are compatible with all stoves, both electric and induction. So, if you are lucky to have a glass-top electric stove, you are good to buy any Moka pot because it has been found that it’s compatible with most, if not all Moka pot coffee makers.
The Best Moka Pots of 2020
As promised at the beginning of the article, here’s the part of serving you with the best Moka pots in the market. These are products that are manufactured by reputable brands in the business. Most of them originated from Italy, where the stovetop espresso machine was invented. So, you should expect nothing but high-quality products in this review.
This review of the best stovetop espresso makers is based on experience with the Moka pots and other customer’s reviews.
1. Bialetti Moka Pot
The first product in the review is well-designed and produced by the top leading brand in the business. And according to history, the first-ever known Moka pot was presented by their founder Alfonso Bialetti. The incredible thing about this company is that they never go weary in meeting their customer’s high-expectation, and they are ready to give you the same satisfaction.
The Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker is one of their several products, and it’s made from durable Aluminium material. This octagonal-shaped Moka pot is available in sizes of 1-cup, 3-cup, 6-cup, 9-cup, and 12-cup for you to choose one that fits your needs. Meanwhile, this Bialetti product is one of the most heat retention Moka pots. The handle is another great feature for you. It’s ergonomic, easy-to-use, and guarantees your safety.
The brews from this Moka pot are the best. You will find them progressively getting better after each use. Meanwhile, the cleaning process is straightforward. Just disassemble the brewer, and run it through warm water before drying it with a rag or soft cloth. Honestly, you are going to find every aspect of this product unique and exciting.
- The original moka coffee pot: Moka Express is the original stovetop espresso maker, it provides the experience of the real Italian way of preparing a tasteful coffee, its unique shape and the inimitable gentleman with moustache date back to 1933, when Alfonso Bialetti invented it.
- Made in Italy: it is Made in Italy and its quality is enhanced by the patented safety valve which makes it easy to clean and its ergonomic handle, available in many sizes and suitable for gas, electric and induction (with the Bialetti induction adapter plate)
- How to prepare the coffee: fill the boiler up to the safety valve, fill it up with ground coffee without pressing, close the moka pot and place it on the stovetop, as soon as Moka Express starts to gurgle, turn the fire off and coffee will be ready
- One size for each need: Moka Express sizes are measured in Espresso Cups, coffee can be enjoyed in Espresso Cups or in larger containers
- Cleaning instructions: the Bialetti Moka Express should be rinsed simply with water, after use. Do not use detergents. The product should not be washed in the dishwasher as this could cause damage to the product and affect the taste of the coffee.
Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker Pros and Cons
2. Bialetti Elegance Venus Induction Moka Pot
The second Bialetti product on our list of best stovetop espresso makers. They earned it- 80 years since establishment with over 200 million coffee makers is not a joke. It’s an achievement made through combined hard work, intelligence, and consistency. Here’s another mind-blowing product for a potential Moka pot buyer.
This product can be said to be the round-shaped and Stainless steel version of the previous one. With that material, you are good to go with any stovetop, and there’s no need to undergo stress when cleaning it. It’s enriched with a beauty that attracts the eyes. If you buy this product, you will like to position it on your kitchen table to call people’s attention.
Another reason to consider this Moka pot is that the handle is well insulated and can be moved easily from one place to another. You should consider it if you are a regular traveler. As for the size, this stovetop espresso maker is made in 2-cup, 6-cup and 10-cup capacity.
- Item is not for induction
Bialetti Elegance Venus Induction Pros and Cons
3. Bialetti Kitty Stainless Steel Moka Pot
Another Bialetti!!! Yes, but the last one in the review. Honestly, this product looks much similar to the previous Moka pot. Its shape is somehow roundish and conic because of the broad base which makes it a bit bulky. Constructed out of Stainless steel, it retains and conducts heat to a great extent. It works perfectly on gas, induction and ceramic stovetops, just like the Bialetti Elegance. Now, you must be wondering if there are any differences between the two.
Well, the Bialetti kitty looks prettier and more appealing than the Bialetti Elegance. The second difference is in the handle. This handle on the Bialetti Kitty is made from highly insulated bakelite material, and it’s positioned farther from the body of the Moka pot so that your hand won’t feel or touch the heated stainless steel.
- Suitable for 4 cups
- Material: Aluminium, Plastic
- Suitable for all types of cookers, including induction
Bialetti Kitty Stainless Steel Espresso Maker Pros and Cons
4. Cuisinox Roma Moka Pot
Yeah. Finally, we moved on to the other brands on the list of our best Moka pots. This Cuisinox product is more like the classic Barista products, as in stylish and very expensive. Meanwhile, its practicality is up-to-par. The fantastic thing about this stovetop espresso maker is that you can use this Moka pot to brew coffee between 1-10 cups at once without refilling, and it’s not compulsory to fill the coffee trough to the brim.
This unique Moka pot is designed and constructed in China. It’s made from rugged 18/10 stainless steel material. Therefore, the durability is very assured. Meanwhile, the handle looks sexier and also extends far away from the body of the Stovetop espresso maker preventing you from any burns. If you are ready to make an investment that will serve you for a lifetime and beat upcoming designs without considering the high-cost, then this is the Moka Pot for you.
- 6-Cup Roma Stainless Steel Moka Pot Stovetop Espresso Maker
- 3.5" x 7" Moka Pot is made of mirror polished, 18/10 stainless steel
- Stovetop Espresso Maker has an Induction base that is compatible with all stovetop surfaces.
- Enjoy the classic Italian method of brewing espresso
- 1 extra gasket included
Cuisinox Roma Coffeemaker Pros and Cons
5. De Longhi EMK6 Alicia Electric Moka Pot
Electric Moka Espresso Coffee maker sounds cool. Come to think of it; you don’t have to buy a stove if you don’t have one. Besides, this is the kind of machine to consider when moving to a dorm or hostel with little space. With this invention, you can save some space that would have been taken by a stove. This Moka pot is also suitable for travellers as it has little weight and won’t take much space in your luggage. Nothing will ever stop you from making your espresso at any time in any place you find yourself.
This coffee maker machine comes with a heating element that has an automatic switch-off feature. The heating element stops working when you remove the pot or when the heat has reached the temperature limit to prevent your coffee from getting burnt. This machine is crafted using Aluminum and a plastic upper chamber. An added advantage of this product is that it keeps coffee warm for an extended period.
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted.450.0 watts
- The Italian way to make authentic coffee with the Moka process. It involves just a few steps. Fill the aluminum boiler with water and filter with ground coffee. After only a few minutes, the machine will deliver your favorite coffee into the container.
- Your coffee will never burn or overflow with the safety automatic shut-off. And the keep warm function keeps coffee hot for 30 minutes.
- Easily monitor the entire brewing process with the transparent container. It's durable and easy-to-clean.
- Choose 3 or 6 cups of coffee with the convenient filter adapter.
De Longhi EMK6 Alicia Electric Moka Pot Pros and Cons
6. Coletti Bozeman Moka Pot
Here’s a stovetop espresso maker for the campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its longevity is guaranteed by the 100% heavy and rugged 18/8 stainless steel used in its construction. The design of the Moka pot will hold about 9-cups of coffee. Its handle is made from wood and is perfect for gripping, and draws backwards to protect the user’s fingers from the hot stainless steel.
The design also includes a transparent glass knob in the top through which you can see what is happening within this container’s walls. Another thing is that it comes with a 3.5inch disc filter that can be used to filter fine coffee grounds that may want to mix with your brewed coffee. This filter will help you remove all the grounds and leave you with your sweet flavored espresso.
![COLETTI Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot — NO Aluminum or Plastic [9 cup]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31Mvx4gVOyL._SL160_.jpg)
- NO ALUMINUM OR PLASTIC — Our camping coffee makers are toxin free, and make the best camp kitchen equipment. Don’t brew with lesser perculators that use aluminum and plastic. Choose a coffee percolator that will serve you well when you brew your camping coffee
- EASIEST WAY TO MAKE CAMP COFFEE — A stainless steel camping coffee pot is simple, efficient, & classic. When you want something strong, and it’s too early for beer, brew with a Bozeman. The perfect stove top coffee maker
- QUICK CLEANING ON THE TRAIL — A simple to clean percolator coffee pot that anyone can use. Just a quick rinse after every use and you’re good to go. No fuss and all function, leave the fancy stuff at home – Brew with a COLETTI cowboy coffee pot
- BREWS BOLD COFFEE — Early mornings call for strong coffee, and the Bozeman is a perfect stove top coffee maker. Percolation brews bolder coffee than any instant coffee packet or pour over. The Bozeman percolates better than every aluminum percolator ever, but don’t just take our word for it. Brew with a Bozeman for yourself
- LIFETIME REPLACEMENT GUARANTEE — Top materials & workmanship to deliver a premium guarantee to replace your percolator when damaged. Shop with confidence. This is the last camping percolator coffee pot you will ever need. US-based customer service available on weekdays. COLETTI is committed to every camper’s adventure, and we’re here to help you brew great coffee anywhere and everywhere you may be. So this summer, choose to brew with a good ol’ brand that you can trust. Brew Every Summer with COLETTI
Coletti Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot Pros and Cons
7. Tops Rapid Brew Moka Pot
Are you looking for a stovetop espresso machine to carry with you for a camping trip? If you need one, this is the product you should purchase. This Tops Rapid Brew Percolator is uniquely designed for outdoor use. The handle is constructed with a Permawood that provides brass rivets in a natural wood grain design. The other metallic parts are made from a pure 18/8 stainless steel.
The design also includes a transparent glass cover knob that allows you to peep into the machine to observe the brewing processes. This Moka pot is built to occupy 2-12 cups of coffee, and the coffee trough that designates the reading and measurement are stowed along a strong metallic rod. The flavor and the consistency of the coffee it produces makes it worthy of the investment.
- 5.5 x 9.75 x 8.75 inch
- Constructed of sparkling, high-luster heavy gauge 18/8 stainless steel
- Traditional perking process allows exact brew strength control, 2-12 cup capacity
- Features a glass cover knob, permawood handle, & Permanent cup markings
- Non-electric, perfect for camping; includes instruction insert
Tops Rapid Brew Stovetop Coffee Percolator Pros and Cons
Conclusion
Certainly and without any doubt, a Moka pot is worth the investment. This piece of kitchenware is a great instrument in the hand of any coffee connoisseur. With it, the making of your early morning coffee is no longer a problem. And any of the listed above will do just fine. But my recommendation goes with Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker. If you want to learn more about this coffee machine’s usage and working principle, I urge you to check out our article on How to use a Moka Pot.
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