9 Best Stovetop (Moka Pot) Espresso Makers Reviewed

crazy by Editorial Staff | Updated on April 24th, 2023

The Moka pot, also known as a stovetop espresso maker, has been around for decades. For all those years and still today, Moka has maintained its reputation of making a strong cup of coffee.


If you ask an Italian grandmother about the best coffee maker, she will tell you a stovetop is a clear winner.

Best Stovetop Espresso Makers

Like any other device, a  Moka pot will make you a perfect cup of coffee when you do everything correctly. So, if you fail to get great coffee, know you skipped or did not follow the right steps.

stainless steel teapot beside clear glass mug

Best Stovetop Espresso Makers

Now that you know what a stovetop espresso maker is and what to consider when buying let’s look at the best pots this year.

Bialetti Elegance Venus

The Bialetti Elegance Venus is the most recent iteration of the Venus Espresso Maker, featuring 20% thicker walls in the water carafe for improved performance. This stainless steel stovetop espresso maker is an excellent choice for those looking for a small yet powerful coffee maker.

It boasts soft lines and a stylish design that make it an eye-catching addition to any kitchen. Not only does it produce authentic Italian espresso, but it is also compatible with induction cooktops.

This pot is portable and detachable, making it an excellent option for travelers and campers. It is also available in 4 and 6-cup sizes, which are just enough for regular coffee users.

Pros

  • Beautiful and stylish design.
  • Easily detachable hence portable and quite easy to maintain.
  • It is durable.
  • Has an insulated handle.

Cons

  • Some people may find the 4 and 6-cup versions too small.

The Original Bialetti Moka Express

The Original Bialetti Moka Express is a classic, iconic stovetop espresso maker that produces a rich, authentic espresso in just minutes. Its eight-sided design is distinctive and made from 18/10 stainless steel for durability. It is also very affordable, making it an amazing value coffee maker.

It has become a favorite among coffee enthusiasts due to its ease of use and fast preparation time. The Bialetti Moka Express is a great choice for an easy-to-use and affordable espresso machine.

Maintenance is easy; you can detach it just like Bialetti Elegance Venus.

Pros

  • The octagon shape helps in efficiently brewing the coffee
  • Comes in various sizes and colors
  • Durable and comes with a 2-year warranty
  • Easy to maintain and also portable because it is detachable.

Cons

  • It does not work well on an electric stove.

bonVIVO Intenca Stovetop Espresso Maker 

Although premium choices are more expensive, the luxury of this bonVIVO Intenca stovetop espresso maker cannot be denied. It’s still competitively priced and accessible to people of all income levels.

Moka pots make it simple to create great coffee. Although most people identify Moka pots with Italian espresso machines, they can also be used to make Cuban coffee.

This Moka Pot is the class leader with a heat-resistant handle and an easy-pour spout. Furthermore, the trendy chrome finish will look great in your kitchen!

Pros

  • We like its fresh design.
  • Makes coffee in just five to ten minutes.
  • The Inca also creates a strong and flavorful brew.
  • Contains a heat-resistant handle

Cons

  • It could have been better if we could choose from a 3-cup, 6-cup, or 12-cup model.
  • Found out that certain spots are difficult to clean.
  • In some cases, users have reported issues with sealing and leaks
  • It is not safe for dishwashers
  • There is no warranty mentioned of any kind

GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker Moka Pot

While many Moka pots are technically compatible with gas stovetops, users may suffer overheating issues with the handles. That is what sets this model apart. The long rubber-coated handle of this GROSCHE Moka pot provides heat-resistant protection. In addition, its design separates the handle from the device’s body, minimizing overheating.

This Moka Pot is made of food-grade anodized aluminum and is suitable for gas, electric, and propane camping stoves. It has a silicone gasket seal that prevents leaks and maintains pressure in check. This model is available in silver, but it is also available in black, red, and white. There are a range of capacity sizes to pick from as well.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Safety features and the black finish

Cons

  • Not suitable for induction stovetops
  • Not dishwasher-safe

Cuisinox Roma

The Cuisinox Roma Moka Express is a high-quality espresso maker made entirely of stainless steel.

Designed from food-grade stainless steel, this classy spot is just perfect. It is ideal for making up to 6 cups and works well on both stove and electric burner. However, itse the only reason you may not want to consider its hefty price.

Despite its higher price, coffee lovers appreciate its quality and understand the need for an espresso maker that will last. In terms of performance, I have found it to be on par with Bialetti in terms of flavor, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a premium design.

Pros

  • Sleek design
  • High-quality stainless steel material.
  • It comes with a spare gasket, induction base, and reducer.

Cons

  • A bit expensive compared to other pots.
  • The handle is not insulated and can get hot.

GEESTA Premium Crystal Glass Stovetop Coffee Maker

The heat-resistant glass handle and size have been recognized as the top sellers on add-on features. The GEETA Crystal Glass comprises non-toxic and rust-proof premium food-grade aluminum and is engineered to resist high temperatures while keeping the handle cool for easy handling. The GEETA Crystal Glass is also available in various colors to accent any kitchen.

The GEETA Stovetop Coffee Maker is built with a retro-shaped bottom that swiftly heats up and provides hot coffee in minutes, producing delicious, beautiful, and aromatic coffee in every serving.

Convenience is one of the most sought-after options for coffee drinkers, and with this product, the consumer must be informed of correct machine use, but there are occasions where the product is at fault.

In this scenario, the consumer should be aware that the product is correctly attached to avoid discomfort or mess. Furthermore, this product is suitable for clients who prefer to use induction stoves.

Overall, the product would be an interesting addition to any kitchen because it is beautiful and has a luxurious vibe. Aside from that, it has a few bad reviews, but it is still regarded as one of the best stovetop espresso machines on the market, making it an appealing option for all coffee makers.

Furthermore, it still produces outstanding and exquisite cups of coffee while allowing you to observe the process.

Pros

  • It includes sleek and opulent glass.
  • The product’s grip is heat-resistant, making it simple to use.
  • It has a retro-shaped bottom for speedier heating.
  • It’s both fashionable and practical.
  • Very simple and simple to use

Cons

  • It is necessary to keep in mind whether the glass cup is correctly fastened or unattached.
  • It is not intended for use with induction stoves.
  • The product comprises glass and high-grade metal, which can be seen while making coffee. It can make up to 5 cups of coffee for the entire family to enjoy.

Rapid Brew Stovetop Coffee Percolator

The Tops Rapid Brew Stovetop Coffee Percolator is a great choice for those looking for a fast and easy way to make 2-9 cups of freshly perked coffee. The perking process allows for exact brew strength, while the stainless steel construction ensures that all parts are durable and long-lasting.

Furthermore, the permanent filter makes it easy to measure exact measurements, and the Maximum Aroma setting is perfect for smaller 3-5 cup brew sizes. This percolator also stands out from competitors due to its plastic-free construction, making it an environmentally friendly option.

With all of these features, it is no wonder that the Tops Rapid Brew Stovetop Coffee Percolator is rated as one of the best stovetop coffee percolators.

Pros

  • Easy to maintain and clean.
  • Has a wooden handle that acts as an insulator.
  • Has a unique and appealing design that is both portable and durable.
  • It has permanent calibration markings and is large enough size.

Cons

  • The lid often pops up when in use.
  • Does not work on an electric stove

Delonghi Alicia Electric Moka Espresso Coffee Maker

The Delonghi Alicia is one of the best Moka pots you will find in the market. In addition, it has an automatic shut-off, ensuring coffee brew never burns or overflows.

The DeLonghi Alicia Electric Moka Espresso Coffee Maker is a great investment for those seeking convenience and a quality cup of espresso. This machine is designed in Italy and features a compact design, perfect for an office, dorm, or small kitchen setting.

This pot is made of between 3 – 6 cups, and you can always view the brewing process because of its transparent collection chamber.

This electric Moka pot is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a rich, thick cup of espresso without needing a hot plate.

Pros

  • Very easy to use and gives you ample brewing options.
  • The convenient and best option for those without stovetop burners.
  • It comes with a cordless operation, making serving easy.

Cons

  • You must have access to an electrical outlet to use it.

Coletti Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot

The Coletti Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot is perfect for a classic coffee-making experience. This 9-cup stainless steel and glass percolator is designed for indoor and outdoor use, making it ideal for any adventure. It features a classic pour-over design and is made without aluminum or plastic components, ensuring a safe and healthy brew.

Additionally, its stovetop design makes it the perfect choice for camping trips. Special features like a bonus set of filters and an ergonomic handle make this percolator even more user-friendly. With this top-of-the-line percolator, you can easily recreate the nostalgia of percolated coffee.

Pros

  • 20 filters included.
  • 100% dishwasher safe.
  • Highly durable.
  • Comes with a glass cover knob and perm wood handle

Cons

  • Not suitable for those after an electric pot. The Bozeman Percolator is designed to operate the old fashion way.

How to Choose Moka Espresso Coffee Makers

Mokas are small, designed to brew 1 or 2-ounce espresso-sized cups of concentrated coffee. Sizes range from 2 to 8 cups. Popular brands include Bialetti, Delonghi, Krups (Moka Brew), and Forever Espresso.

Prices can be as low as $10 or $20, reaching over $100 for an electric Moka. But before we decide which brand to choose from, you have to know what type you want to buy!

Stainless steel or aluminum?

Aluminum stovetop Moka coffee makers

silver and black coffee maker

Traditional Italian makes are aluminum stovetop pots. Many have a distinctive octagonal shape.

Advantages

  • Proven design. It can last for decades with an occasional gasket and filter basket change every few years.
  • Unique retro look.
  • Claimed to make the best Moka coffee.
  • Possible to control the coffee extraction rate (thereby controlling the taste) by changing the stovetop burner setting.

Disadvantages

  • No auto power off. Needs to be watched to prevent overheating if all the water has been boiled off.
  • Requires special care. Only rinsing with water is recommended. Scrubbing with detergent is not encouraged as this is supposed to affect the taste of the coffee.

Some models have a pressure valve (for example, the Bialetti Brikka) between the two chambers. This allows only higher pressure steam to reach the coffee. An espresso-like crema is supposed to be produced this way.

Stainless steel stovetop makes now available. They are more expensive but are easier to clean as detergent and scrubbing is not discouraged. However, some coffee connoisseurs claim that the coffee from stainless steel doesn’t taste as good.

So, which one?

Many  coffee lovers will go for stainless stovetop makers. Stainless Moka pots appeal more to the eye, but you must be ready to pay more to own one. It is best to consider Bialetti products if you buy one made of aluminum. Bialetti is best known across the globe for its anodized aluminum Moka pots.

Electric stainless steel Moka coffee makers

Modern electric smokers are usually made out of stainless steel. They work the same way stovetop does, the only difference being that an internal electrical heater is used to boil the water.

Advantages

  • Automatic power off.
  • Easy to clean.

Disadvantages

  • Not as reliable. The heating element can fail.
  • Not possible to control the heating rate like with a stovetop model.

Electric smokers are convenient and easy to use. In addition, some control of the brewing process is possible by changing the coffee roast, grind size,  amount of coffee, and the amount of water.

Serious coffee drinkers will want the additional control provided by a stovetop Moka, where the stove’s burner setting can be changed.

French Press coffee makers should also be considered. They have a good reputation, are cheap, and are easy to use.

What else to consider when shopping for one?

Below is a list of things to consider when shopping:

  • Can it work on your stovetop?

Not all Moka pots work on electric stoves. So, make sure to do your homework well before making a purchase.

  • The number of cups it can make

Moka pots are available in different sizes. You may want to go for the 12-cups pot if you have a family. Make sure to take home a pot that will make you enough coffee.

The secret behind the strong coffee

The Moka pot has three chambers which enable it to make great coffee. It has a water chamber (where water is stored, the filter basked (where the coffee grounds sit and the collection chamber, which collects the brew.

When the water in the water chamber heats up, pressure builds up, pushing the water through the filter basket and into the collection chamber.

These three chambers make it possible for a Moka pot to make strong coffee. Keep in mind that the secret to great coffee is a result of three things: extraction, pressure, and temperature. A Moka pot, thus having three chambers, will prepare great coffee at the end of the brewing process.

Espresso or Strong Coffee, What do you get?

The fact a Moka pot is also called a stovetop espresso maker makes some people believe a Moka pot has the potential to brew espresso coffee. That is not true. A Moka pot is not an espresso machine, so don’t expect it to make you some coffee. Instead, you will get a bold cup of coffee at the end of the brewing process.

The only similarity a Moka pot shares with an espresso machine, and what resulted in the name “stovetop espresso maker” is that both use high pressure and temperature to achieve fast extraction. Espresso machines use a high pressure of about 9 bars, and Moka pots use 1.5 bars of pressure.

Note: if you love crema, you better consider budgeting for an espresso machine as a Moka pot will not produce it at the end of the brewing process, except with some designs such as the Bialetti Brikka.

Conclusion

A Moka pot,t although it will not brew espresso, will ensure you have a strong cup of coffee daily. And if you do everything accurately, you are assured of a great morning coffee.

Now that you have a list of best pots to consider go ahead and pick the one you find suitable. In case you need additional help, we are here to help.

FAQs

Is stovetop espresso a good option?

Stovetop espresso is fine but not as wonderful as espresso for aficionados. Though the results aren’t nearly as good as the real thing, Moka pots are a convenient home-brewing option that produces a thick, robust, and tasty cup of coffee.

When using a stovetop maker, it’s simple to over- or under-extract your grounds, but you should remember that practice makes perfect (espresso).

What size stovetop espresso maker should I buy?

A 9-cup pot that produces 18.5 fluid ounces is significantly closer to what you’d get from a smaller “conventional” drip coffee machine. We’re talking about more than two servings of what a regular 8-ounce cup of coffee would provide. So if you live with many coffee drinkers, a 9-cup pot is a terrific alternative.

What kind of coffee do you use in a stovetop espresso maker?

Use your favorite coffee blend (beans) in a stovetop espresso maker. It is recommended that you grind your coffee at home, using a grind size that is somewhat finer than that of drip coffee and slightly coarser than that of an espresso machine.

Use no extracts, instant coffee, or infusions in your stovetop machine. Here’s a guide to the  best coffee for Moka pots.

Can I make a latte in a Moka pot?

A Latte is essentially espresso with milk that you order at a cafe (the amount of milk and foam differentiates other milk-based coffees such as a cappuccino or a flat white).

The espresso coffee produced by a commercial coffee machine is short and powerful; when mixed with milk, the flavor of the coffee is retained while the consistency of the milk remains constant.

A standard stovetop makes a longer (albeit still strong) coffee, thus when blended with milk, you are practically adding 3 or 4 times the amount of brewed coffee, resulting in the incorrect coffee-to-milk ratio.

To make anything resembling a latte, try brewing it on the stovetop with a darker roasted coffee ground to a slightly finer setting (not too fine, though, as the water will not be able to infiltrate the bed of coffee). This should result in a fuller coffee that retains its flavor when blended with milk.

Do you tamp the coffee with a Moka pot?

No, try not to tamp the coffee bed. This will prevent the water from filtering through and adequately extracting the coffee.

How long does it take to make coffee in a Moka pot?

A Moka pot should take about 3-5 minutes to heat up. The size of the Moka pot, the type of coffee, the coffee dose, the brewing water temperature when poured into the bottom chamber, and the strength of the heat source all play a role.

How do you tell if your stovetop coffee is done?

The coffee will begin to sputter, indicating no water left in the bottom chamber. As a result, some Moka Pots will also shut down on their own.

How to maintain a Moka pot?

It is easy to clean a Moka pot. However, one thing to avoid when cleaning your pot is harsh detergents. Such kinds of detergents will erode the inside of the pot.

It is good also to note you may encounter a slight metallic taste in your coffee. This is common, especially when using a new pot. To avoid the metallic taste, consider performing a couple of ‘dry runs.’

Is it safe to use Moka pots?

According to studies, consumption of coffee produced in aluminum Moka pots is safe within Tolerable Weekly Intake (TWI).

However, aluminum content in Moka pots increased after they were washed in a dishwasher, which is something to be careful of. Always wash your Moka pot to be safe, especially if the material is aluminum rather than stainless steel.

Is it possible to make crema in a Moka pot?

Regarding espresso, coffee experts know that the beloved crema, or the coating of velvety froth topping the shot, is a symbol of exceptional quality.

Can you obtain crema from a Moka pot? We know it can come from a true espresso machine, but can you get it from a Moka pot? Some argue you can’t because stovetop coffee machines don’t brew with enough pressure. However, others have discovered that a little tinkering with grind size and temperature resembles crema.

Is it possible to make tea in a Moka pot?

Tea can be brewed in some Moka pots. In addition, tea leaves can be used instead of coffee grounds in the filter basket. However, certain manufacturers advise against it, so double-check the product manual.

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Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.

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Editorial Staff

The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.