At some point, not too long after your first taste of coffee, it becomes clear that there is no such thing as a “standard” cup. Much like a good whiskey or wine, there is no sure answer as to what is best, especially for your individual tastes. What style of coffee you drink and how it’s prepared often comes down to your personal taste buds. Some people prefer drip coffee, and others cold brew. Lots of people would choose French press. If a small concentrated hit of strong, rich coffee during your day sounds appealing to you, your best choice may be espresso, and the best way to achieve espresso at home is with a stovetop espresso maker.
First created in 1933, stovetop espresso makers deliver a quick and easy-to-use method for preparing espresso-like coffee in a matter of minutes. Compared to a kettle or other brewing devices, these coffee brewers are compact and made from durable materials which give them an extra-long lifespan. Sometimes known as a moka pot, this brewing process moves boiling water, which has been pressurized by steam, through coffee grounds, resulting in a brew which is strong and has a smooth, rich flavor.
Below you’ll find five of the best stovetop espresso makers available right now. Take a look and enjoy a new way to brew your morning cup!
1. Bialetti Moka Stovetop Coffee Maker
The Bialetti Moka Stove Top Coffee Maker is the brand most Italians trust. It’s really great for preparing your daily hit of coffee. This device is constructed from 100% aluminum and produces three cups of coffee per round. On average, the brewing process takes five minutes to deliver a strong and velvety beverage you’ll love. The Italian-made coffee maker sports Bialetti’s famous finger-pointing mustachioed caricature logo and is easily broken down for cleaning and maintenance. It also includes a patented safety valve to help prevent accidents.
PROS: The included patented safety valve helps prevent dangerous pressure build-ups.
CONS: Rubber gasket can wear down.
2. Vremi Stovetop Espresso Maker
With the Vremi Stovetop Espresso Maker in your kitchen, there’s no need for your daily pit stop at the local coffee shop, as it lets you create delicious Italian-standard coffee in the comfort of your own home. The compact device is available in either black or silver and boasts a six-cup capacity, which is enough espresso for the average family household. You can use the espresso maker on electric, gas and smaller induction stovetops. Furthermore, this stovetop espresso maker sports an eight-sided design which looks amazing and diffuses heat for a more enhanced flavor.
PROS: The sharp, eight-sided design enhances flavor and diffuses heat evenly across the espresso maker.
CONS: This device is suitable for use on induction cooktops which are over four inches in size.
3. Bellemain 6-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker
Whether you desire aromatic espressos, piping-hot mochas or delicious lattes, you can do it all with the Bellemain Six-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker. It sports an aluminum construction which helps prevent the metallic flavor you may find with competing models. Furthermore, the attractive design quickly and evenly heats water to deliver your hot beverage in a matter of minutes. You’ll also notice that the maker features a cool-to-touch handle and knob as well as a safety valve to ensure the coffee-making process is as safe as possible.
PROS: The versatile design lets you create espressos, mochas and lattes in a matter of minutes.
CONS: This espresso maker is designed for use on gas or electric stovetops only.
4. Coffee Gator Moka Pot Stovetop Espresso Maker
The folks at Coffee Gator believe barista-quality coffee at home is a basic human right. That’s why the Coffee Gator Moka Pot Stovetop Espresso Maker makes creating and enjoying delicious espresso at home simple. This three-piece kit includes an espresso maker constructed from premium-quality aluminum as well as two stainless steel drinking cups. Each accompanying cup features double-walled insulation, allowing you to consume your hot drink at your leisure. In addition, the espresso maker can be used on electric, gas and induction stovetops.
PROS: The included double-walled stainless steel drinking cups allow you to enjoy your hot drinks at your leisure, and this stovetop espresso maker can be used on induction stovetops.
CONS: The gray color may be too muted for some people’s tastes.