Are you yearning for a cup of bold, thick and strong coffee with a touch of solid crema? Then the best stovetop espresso maker would come as a great addition to your coffee arsenal!
These brewers are way more compact in size than a regular espresso machine while also being more affordable at the same time.
Sure – a Moka pot (a.k.a. stovetop espresso maker) doesn’t beat the velocity of modern coffee brewers.
However, it still delivers a strong cup of java each time that’s sort of like Americano, but with an espresso taste.
The List of the Best Stovetop Espresso Makers Currently
Although there are loads of different stovetop brewers out there, we’ve hand-picked the 8 absolute best ones out there.
Thus you’ll only find the top-rated Moka pots on Amazon, based on their ratings, the number of reviews and overall quality!
1. The Original Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Coffee Maker
User rating: Superb
Price: $$
The Bialetti Moka Express is our top pick and it’s considered the gold standard among all stovetop espresso makers.
It comes with a unique octagonal shape that diffuses heat uniformly.
This contributes to better extraction, while also enhancing the aroma of your java.
As a result, this stovetop brewer provides a velvety, rich and strong brew, every single time.
Now, the polished aluminum body of this espresso maker simply screams quality as it’s so sleek and lightweight, yet sturdy.
The body itself has a great capacity of three 2 oz cups (with a little leftover) and it delivers yummy cups in no more than 5 minutes.
The Original Bialetti brewer also has a classic spout, a flip-up top, a safety valve and a well-insulated Bakelite handle to make this stovetop espresso maker even more attractive.
Also, the maintenance and cleanup of this coffee maker are a breeze.
You can also choose between 12 cup sizes and you can also order your Bialetti brewer in various colors.
Pros
- The octagonal shape
- Safety valve
- Detachable body
- 2-year warranty
- Superb value for money
Cons
- Even though it works with an electric stove, that’s not an ideal combination
2. Bellemain 6-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Superb
Price: $$
The Bellemain stovetop maker will definitely appeal to all coffee aficionados by spreading the most delightful aromas and producing rich, bold cups of your favorite coffee-based hot beverages.
This Italian-style espresso maker has an octagonal body shape that allows for quick and even heating up.
It brews 6 2-oz cups and works with both gas and electric stoves.
This stovetop espresso maker comes with a couple of stellar features such as stay-cool handles and lid knobs that will protect your fingers while making java.
Also, Bellemain has designed this high-quality and durable brewer with a built-in safety valve.
It regulates the internal temperature of the pot, prevents it from overheating and from the intense pressure during the brewing process.
In terms of cleaning – just rinse it with soapy water and you are good to go for another round.
Pros
- Classic aluminum finishing
- Stay-cool handles
- Suitable for electric and gas stoves
- Easy to clean
- 2-year guarantee
Cons
- Sharp edges
- A few customers reported silver flakes coming off the pot
3. Imusa USA Aluminum Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Great
Price: $
This 3-cup stovetop espresso maker brings in the flavor of the nearby coffee shop right into your kitchen.
Unlike most typical espresso makers on the market, the Imusa brewer makes coffee under mild pressure.
Even better, the brewed coffee reaches the top carafe in just a couple of mins.
It’s also made of durable aluminum on the inside and stainless steel on the outside, so that the Imusa stovetop espresso maker can keep your java warm longer.
While the Bakelite cool-touch handle makes it easy to hold as it protects your fingers from heat.
Additional features such as flip-up top and side-pour spout make serving pleasurable.
Additionally, the Imusa maker is quite small and portable so you can take it with you when traveling.
And you can use it on any type of surface – coil and ceramic, as well as gas and electric stoves.
Pros
- Ideal for brewing traditional espresso
- Easy handling and serving
- Portable
- Made of aluminum and stainless steel
- Suitable for any type of stovetop
- Very inexpensive
Cons
- Could use a bigger capacity
4. Primula PES-3312 Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Great
Price: $$
Espresso, Americano, Affogato, frappe and so much more – you can make your favorite type of coffee with this Primula PES-3312 model.
It delivers up to 12 cups of fresh and aromatic coffee at a time, all in just a couple of minutes.
It works on any type of stovetop, including propane, which you may appreciate especially if you are a camper.
The Primula espresso maker is also carefully crafted and made of high-quality aluminum.
Apart from that, the body of this brewer distributes the heat evenly, which in return enhances the flavor of the coffee.
This Moka pot also features a flip-top lid, ergonomic handle, as well as a temperature-resistant knob that makes pouring coffee pleasure with the Primula brewer.
On top of that this space-saver, multi-purpose type of espresso maker is easy-peasy to clean and comes at a super-affordable price.
And thanks to the safety valve, you can control the level of the pressure delivered for perfectly extracted coffee-based drinks.
Pros
- Brews fairly quickly
- Distinctive design
- Doesn’t spill coffee
- Travel-friendly
- Space-saving
Cons
- If you put it in a dishwasher, all of its shine will disappear
5. bonVIVO Intenca Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Great
Price: $$$
Only true coffee aficionados understand the way stainless steel espresso makers contribute to the unbeatable taste quality coffee.
Now, the sleek bonVIVO stovetop espresso brewer comes with a hard-wearing copper chrome finish that makes it durable.
But it’s also suitable for any type of stove -be it gas, electric, induction or ceramic.
And the ergonomic heat-resistant handle makes it easy to pour your precious java into a cup.
Additionally, the bonVIVO Intenca brewer features a clever spout that prevents spills as well as a safety valve so that excessive pressure doesn’t buildup.
It can also come in handy for those busy evenings when you have your friends or family over, as it delivers up to 6 yummy cups at a time.
But it’s not just good at making espresso since this brewer acts as a percolator coffee pot and even a Cuban coffee maker, depending on whether you like the traditional sweetness or not.
This bonVIVO espresso maker is also great for travelers, as it comes in a compact size and cleanup is a breeze since you can occasionally put it in a dishwasher.
And thanks to the Italian-grade quality of this stovetop coffee maker, you can enjoy a full-bodied aromatic espresso drink.
Pros
- Quality build
- Ergonomic handle
- Safety valve
- Doesn’t spill coffee
- 6-cup size
- Versatility
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- A few customers complained that the handle gets too hot
6. GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Great
Price: $$
The GROSCHE stovetop espresso maker/manual coffee percolator machine is all you need if you like Italian-style rich Moka coffee.
Yet, the party doesn’t end here as this brewer can help you make cappuccinos at home nice and easy!
It’s simpler to use than standard electric espresso machines, but this GROSCHE brewer that’s made of food-grade aluminum also works on gas, electric, propane stoves.
This means that you can take it with you on a camping trip for example and even better you can even use it on induction stoves, although this may take a bit longer to brew coffee.
On top of that, this brewer/percolator comes with a soft touch rubber handle coated with heat-resistant plastic.
It also features a non-standard, sleek and ergonomic design since the handle protects your fingers from any heat.
However, GROCHE has added another layer of protection by adding a safety valve that protects you from high-pressure buildup.
Additionally, there’s a wide array of colors that the GROSCHE stovetop espresso maker offers as well as several cup sizes ranging from 3 to 9 cups.
Pros
- Works on any type of stove
- Ideal for making Moka coffee, espresso, and cappuccino
- Soft-touch handle with a burn guard
- Safety valve
- Available in numerous colors and sizes
Cons
- The ground basket could use some improvements
- The rubber handle may start melting after a while
7. Vremi Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Very decent
Price: $
The Vremi stovetop espresso maker is a reliable brewer that delivers full-flavored, rich, and bold coffee in less than 5 minutes.
It’s compact in size and this Moka pot is also a great choice for coffee enthusiasts on the go.
It measures only 6 x 4 x 8 inches, which makes it ideal for less spacious kitchens and countertops.
This 6-cup size brewer also comes in a stunning 8-size octagon shape that contributes to diffusing the heat properly and retaining the full coffee aroma.
Apart from that, the Vremi espresso maker is made of durable aluminum and it comes with a rubberized ergonomic handle.
Also, it works with both gas and electric stovetops although you can use it with 4-inch induction tops as well.
Lastly, to preserve its shine, simply wash it with your hands while using a mild soap so that your Vremi countertop buddy will stay loyal for years.
Pros
- Octagonal shaped body
- Ergonomic rubber handle
- Super-affordable
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Produces less pressure than a regular espresso machine
- Not dishwasher safe
- Sometimes spills when pouring coffee
8. Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker
User rating: Very decent
Price: $$$$
The Cuisinox Roma is a neat stovetop espresso maker with a single and clean design that’s ideal for groups of 4 to 10 people.
This hand-crafted Moka pot is made of 18/10 polished stainless steel and it comes with an induction base.
It’s also safe to use on all cooking surfaces and this espresso maker is quite easy to clean as well.
And with no nooks, crannies, or edges, dirt can’t get lodged around.
Just rinse with water, wipe any coffee sludge and voila – your Cuisinox brewer is now clean!
Also, unlike competitor products, the Cuisinox stovetop espresso maker is dishwasher safe.
However, Cuisinox’s hefty price tag for this stovetop espresso maker may be a deal-breaker for some.
Yet, the seller gives you a 25-year warranty, an extra gasket and a reducer.
Pros
- Quality workmanship
- Super-low maintenance
- Elegant design
- Comes with an extra gasket and reducer
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Stainless steel handle warms up
- Quite pricey
How to Brew Coffee Using a Stovetop Espresso Maker?
This is how to make delicious coffee with your Moka pot in 8 effortless steps:
- Grind the coffee beans so that they become as fine as table salt (should be the “Drip Coffee” setting on most grinders)
Note: Approximately 2.5 tablespoons of coffee beans will suffice for a 4-cup Moka pot! - Fill your electric kettle with fresh cold water and bring it to a boil
- Pour the hot water into the lower chamber of your Moka pot (do not fill above the safety valve!)
- Add the coffee grounds to the filter (don’t pack it) and level them using a finger
- Use a hot pad (when touching the lower chamber) to attach the upper and lower parts of the stovetop espresso maker
Note: Don’t attach them too tightly! - Put the Moka pot on an electric or gas stove and turn the heat to medium (don’t close the top lid)
Note: Make sure that it’s compatible with your stove! - The coffee is ready when you hear a bubbling, hissing sound and when it becomes lighter in color (sort of like yellow honey)
- Remove the Moka pot from the stove and serve
And if you want to stop the extraction faster, you can run the bottom chamber under cold water.
But if you do that, remember to always use a hot pad to avoid burning yourself!
Buyer’s Guide For Choosing The Ideal Moka Pot
There’s no doubt that the price and visual appeal always play a significant role when buying a stovetop espresso maker.
However, there a few extra factors to consider for getting the perfect Moka pot!
Aluminum or Stainless Steel Design?
Aluminum-based Moka pots are still quite widespread since they’re very affordable, lightweight and maintaining heat.
However, stainless steel stovetop espresso brewers are 100% corrosion-free, easier to clean and non-porous.
Stainless steel brewers are more expensive than aluminum ones but they’re more durable and easier to maintain.
One of the biggest concerns with aluminum cookware (or Moka pots in this case) is the leaching of aluminum into foodstuffs.
That’s why it’s always better to opt for adonized aluminum brewers.
- Also read: Best single-serve coffee maker
The adonization process of aluminum makes it more durable, thicker, stronger and more corrosion-resistant.
What’s the Country of Origin?
Different Moka pots are made in different places, which might affect the quality of the end product.
That’s why some stovetop brewers are manufactured in Italy, others in China and some are made on American soil.
A Moka pot that has a “Made in Italy” stamp on it (like our top pick Bialetti) just screams quality.
And it’s a no-brainer that a Moka pot made in Italy (the home of espresso) would most likely be of the highest quality.
While something hailing from China can certainly raise some eyebrows in terms of build quality.
Is it Compatible with an Electric or Gas Stove?
This is crucial as you totally don’t want to buy a Moka pot only to find out that it doesn’t work on an electric stove.
Important: Not every stovetop espresso maker works on an electric stove!
Keep in mind that one Moka pot might be compatible with a gas stove, while another with an electric one only.
So please, always double-check the associated stove compatibility.
It is supposed to be used on a gas or electric stove?
FAQs
Last but not least, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions when it comes to Moka pots!
What is a stovetop espresso maker and how does it work?
A stovetop espresso maker, also known as a Moka pot, is a device that brews coffee by using steam pressure to extract the flavor from the coffee grounds. The pot is made up of three chambers: the bottom chamber holds water, the middle chamber holds the coffee grounds, and the top chamber collects the brewed coffee.
Here’s how it works:
- Fill the bottom chamber with cold water up to the level of the safety valve.
- Place the filter basket on top of the bottom chamber and fill it with ground coffee.
- Screw the top chamber onto the filter basket.
- Place the stovetop espresso maker on a stove and heat it over medium heat.
- As the water heats up, it creates steam which passes through the ground coffee and into the top chamber.
- Once the top chamber is full, remove the stovetop espresso maker from the stove.
- Stir the coffee in the top chamber and pour it into a cup.
Important information:
- A stovetop espresso maker is also known as a Moka pot.
- The pot has three chambers: bottom for water, middle for coffee grounds, and top for brewed coffee.
- The pot uses steam pressure to extract the flavor from the coffee grounds.
What are the benefits of using a stovetop espresso maker?
There are several benefits to using a stovetop espresso maker. Firstly, it is an affordable and portable option for those who want to make espresso-style coffee at home.
Secondly, it allows you to control the strength and flavor of your coffee by adjusting the amount of coffee grounds used. Lastly, it produces a rich, flavorful cup of coffee without the need for an expensive espresso machine.
Important information:
- A stovetop espresso maker is an affordable and portable option.
- It allows you to control the strength and flavor of your coffee.
- It produces a rich, flavorful cup of coffee without the need for an expensive espresso machine.
What are the different types of stovetop espresso makers?
There are several different types of stovetop espresso makers, including aluminum, stainless steel, and copper:
- Aluminum is the most common material used for stovetop espresso makers since it is lightweight and heats quickly.
- Stainless steel is another popular choice since it is durable and easy to clean.
- Copper is less common but is known for its excellent heat conductivity, making it an ideal material for stovetop espresso makers.
The three most important things to know about the different types of stovetop espresso makers are:
- They can be made of aluminum, stainless steel, or copper.
- Aluminum is the most common material used for stovetop espresso makers.
- Copper is less common but is known for its excellent heat conductivity.
Is Moka Coffee as Strong as Espresso?
Not at all.
Although both espresso and Moka coffee are highly-concentrated coffees, they’re still way different.
Coffee coming out of stovetop espresso maker is heavy-bodied, bold, intense and even a bit bitter.
And depending on your technique, you can achieve a sweeter and more balanced taste.
However, Moka is only 3 to 4 times as concentrated as drip coffee, while espresso tops it with 5 to 8 times more concentrated cups!
An espresso shot is loaded with flavor that’s intense, rich and sometimes even bitter if you are not a seasoned coffee brewer
Basically, Moka is a great choice for those who prefer that rich and deep flavor.
While espresso is ideal for coffee aficionados who enjoy sweet, bright and strong shots.
Do Moka Pots Make Good Espresso?
Not exactly in the sense of making traditional espresso.
Rookies get easily confused that stovetop espresso makers produce espresso like the barista from that nearby coffee shop.
The only way to get an authentic, quality espresso shot will always be by using an espresso machine!
Indeed, Moka pots, often called stovetop espresso makers, deliver strong and satisfying cups.
Yet, the pressure espresso machines use to make espresso is at least 9 bars, while a Moka pot delivers only 1 to 2 bars maximum.
Coffee brewed with a stovetop espresso maker is way different than authentic espresso when it comes to those vibrant flavors and rich crema.
How Do You Deep Clean a Moka Pot?
The best way to manually deep clean your Moka pot is by scrubbing it with.
Here’s how:
- Disassemble the entire thing
- Discard any coffee grounds that are left
- Rinse each part of the Moka pot with hot water
- Get a non-metal abrasive and start scrubbing
Note: Don’t scrub the steel wool part! - Soak the Moka pot in a half vinegar plus half water (1:1) mixture for approximately 30 mins
- After the 30 minutes have passed give it a nice scrub once again
- Rinse with water and let it dry
Alternatively, you can brew a full pot using the 2:1 water-to-vinegar ratio if you find this cleaning method easier.
This is how to do it:
- Fill the stovetop espresso maker’s basin with the water-vinegar (2:1) combo
- Start brewing
- Once done, let the water and vinegar mix do its thing for around 15 mins
- Pour the home-made cleaning solution into the sink
- Rinse the Moka pot with water to remove any leftovers
This should be sufficient to get rid of most oxidation.
And don’t worry, oxidation that’s present in your Moka pot won’t make your coffee taste like blah, although you should still do your best to remove it.
What Moka Pot Size Should You Get?
This is entirely up to you since the size of the Moka pot you go for depends on how many people you’re going to brew java for.
Generally, there are several cup sizes when it comes to buying a stovetop espresso brewer – 1, 3, 6, 10 and 12 cups
Although stovetop espresso makers come in different sizes, once you buy a particular size, you can’t adjust it to produce more coffee.
If you are brewing for 1 or 2 persons, go for the 6-cup size stovetop espresso maker and if you’re brewing for more then opt for a 10-cup one or bigger.
Other than buying a new, bigger or smaller Moka pot that is.
For instance, a 3-cup Moka pot delivers about 6 oz, while a 6-cup goes up to 12 oz.
If you are a beginner at this, you should know that you should fill the water all the way up to the marked line or to the bottom of the release valve.
And you add enough coffee grounds to reach the top of the basket.
But I wouldn’t recommend using less coffee or water than marked, as this could spoil the extraction process.
What Kind of Coffee do You Use in a Moka Pot?
Ideally, you’d want to use ground coffee that’s coarser than what you’d use in an espresso machine.
Thus, you can grind your roasted coffee beans so that they’re table salt-like in texture.
Use coffee grounds that are finer than what you put in a drip machine, yet coarser than what you’d use in a typical espresso brewer.
There’s a caveat though – it’s not recommended to put infusions, extracts or even instant coffee in your Moka pot.
What should I look for when buying a stovetop espresso maker?
When buying a stovetop espresso maker, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the pot is important, as it will determine how much coffee it can make at once.
Secondly, the material of the pot can affect the flavor of the coffee, with stainless steel and aluminum being popular options.
Lastly, the ease of cleaning is important, as some pots may be more difficult to clean than others.
Important information:
- Consider the size of the pot when buying a stovetop espresso maker.
- The material of the pot can affect the flavor of the coffee.
- The ease of cleaning is an important factor to consider.
How can I make sure my stovetop espresso maker lasts a long time?
To ensure your stovetop espresso maker lasts a long time, avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the aluminum or stainless steel.
Always rinse and dry the chambers thoroughly after each use to prevent corrosion. Additionally, periodically replace the rubber gasket and filter to maintain optimal brewing conditions.
Conclusion
Now, it wasn’t easy to pick the best Moka pot coffee maker from so many great products.
But with thousands and thousands of genuine reviews, a superb rating and a quality finish, The Original Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Coffee Maker is our top pick here.
And the coffee brewed with your new stovetop espresso maker will most definitely satisfy your caffeine needs with a bold and rich flavor.
Even though it can’t brew espresso in the traditional way, a Moka pot still delivers strong, delicious and intense coffee.
What’s your personal experience with Moka pots?
Would you give up a hefty, bulky espresso machine in favor of a quality stovetop espresso maker?
Leave your comments in the section below!
Did somebody say coffee? Two shots of espresso for me, thanks. Oh, nevermind – I’m Simon, nice to e-meet you, dear CoffeeLifior! I like to write, drink coffee and I believe in Jesus. Highly-caffeinated drinks are my thing, but you can occasionally see me sip on decaf (my wife never finishes her coffee). Speaking of which, I’m off to grab another cup of caffeinated goodness now, laters!
Last update on 2023-09-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
