If you’re looking for stovetop espresso makers (also known as Moka Pots), then you must be curious about different ways to make good, rich coffee.
I know I appreciate that, since I’ve been using a Moka Pot for the past two years!
Are you searching for Moka Pot coffee because you appreciate the tried and true way in which it is brewed?
Moka Pot was invented in 1933 by an Italian engineer and aluminum technologist named Alfonso Bialetti. But only in 1946 it started to be industrially produced and commercialized by his son, Renato.
The Bialetti family used the trademark denomination of “Moka Express” for their invention, and this is where the word espresso most likely came from when changing the name of the Moka Pot to stovetop espresso maker.
Although coffee made with a Moka Pot has a unique build and taste characteristics it is not a true espresso. Three obvious differences would be:
- brewing pressure – in a true espresso machine, the necessary pressure necessary to produce an espresso shot is much higher than in a drip machine or a stovetop maker;
- brewing time – espresso brewing typically takes up to 30 seconds while Moka Pot coffee will be ready in around 4-5 minutes;
- brewing outcome – espresso has a signature foamy layer of crema, while a stovetop brewer makes creamy textured coffee without the foamy layer.
But first, let’s go over the basic concept of a Bialetti espresso maker and what to look for when buying any brand of stovetop coffee maker!
Not searching for a stovetop espresso maker like a Moka Pot? Check out our helpful list of more traditional espresso machine options here!
Table of Contents
How does an espresso pot work?
A Moka Pot has 3 sections:
- bottom section for water;
- middle section basket for coffee grounds and filter;
- top section with lid for collecting brewed coffee.
When you put your Moka Pot on the stove and boil the water in the bottom section, it generates enough steam and pressure to then force the hot water through the tube into the midsection. From there, it travels through the coffee grounds and up into the top section as your brewed coffee!
Simple enough, right? It’s important to note that many Moka Pots are not able to be used on an electric stove or an induction cooktop. A gas stove is ideal for most styles of stovetop espresso makers, but more on that later!
How to brew coffee with a stovetop espresso maker
- Grind freshly roasted coffee beans right before brewing;
- Fill the basket with coffee, but don’t tamp it, just level it;
- Fill the bottom chamber with water up until right below the valve. Some machines recommend using cold water as opposed to already hot water, so make sure to read your product’s manual;
- Connect all 3 parts together;
- Place on a heat source, be it the stovetop, induction burner, or open flame;
- Follow the brewing process outlined in your product’s manual, and remove your Moka Pot from the heat once you start to hear a bubbling or rattling sound (sometimes referred to as a strombolian phase, because of its typical volcano-like behavior). This sound is made by steam escaping through your coffee grounds and into the top chamber;
- Stop the brewing process by placing a wet/cold towel around your Moka Pot (you only need to cool down the bottom chamber slightly);
- Pour it in your best coffee cup and you are ready to enjoy some Moka coffee!
NOTE: Cleaning your stovetop espresso maker is a necessary part of the brewing process, and you should read your product’s specific manual before cleaning.
A Moka Pot contains a few more detachable parts that are not as obvious as the main three chambers. At the bottom of the top chamber, you will see an O ring seal that needs to be removed, as this will help to release the upper filter. Now you have complete access to clean out all the grinds and oils trapped in various places of your espresso pot.
How to choose a stovetop espresso maker
Finding the right espresso maker for your stovetop is actually quite simple; you just need to decide on the following:
What size I need:
Sizes of stovetop espresso makers vary from as little as 1 cup or around 2 oz, to as big as 12 cups, or around 23oz.
It all depends on how much coffee you need to prepare in one brewing. It is advised to have just the right size maker instead of using the largest one with half the water necessary, as it will prevent your ground coffee from becoming over-extracted.
The most popular size of stovetop brewer is a 6 cup, and that’s the size I have! My partner and I find this suitable for our morning cups, and the average coffee lover should too.
We mix our Moka Pot coffee with 1 part brewed coffee and one part boiling water or milk for more of a latte feel.
Why would I add extra water to already brewed coffee?
The brew from a stovetop espresso maker will be really strong. No, not espresso strength, but still! This little guy is designed to brew strong coffee, and it allows you to customize your morning cup so that you can choose how weak or strong you want it to be.
What it’s made of:
The original Bialetti Moka Pot was made out of aluminum (and still is), but nowadays many other options are made from stainless steel.
Aluminum as a metal provides better heat conduction and is lighter, so it will aid in reduced brewing time, but this might be a rarely noticeable difference.
One drawback of an aluminum Moka Pot is that you can’t use it on an induction stove; only stainless steel Moka Pot options work on induction. This is the type of brewer I have, and only being able to use it on a gas stove may not suit you. Choosing a material that suits your current stove is a smart idea!
Electric or manual:
Believe it or not, there are electric Moka Pot options on the market today. Seems a bit silly when you could buy many other electric coffee brewing options, but still.
This could be an important consideration for you to make should you be looking for a more convenient and classy alternative espresso maker. The Delonghi EMK6 Alicia springs to my mind as a luxurious Moka coffee brewing experience without the need for an induction stovetop!
Other than these three key choices you should make, choosing a Moka Pot is easy! Let’s take a look at some of the best stovetop espresso maker options on the market today.
Need a grinder for your fresh coffee beans? Check out some of the best manual coffee grinders out there, just to keep things old school. You should also check out our list of percolator options too!
11 Best Stovetop Espresso Maker Options for 2021
Bialetti 6 Cup Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker
The Bialetti 6-cup Stovetop espresso maker looks stunning in 10 different colors, made to suit your personality, and brewing coffee is a breeze with it.
It’s made of a high-quality polished aluminum material that makes it light and sturdy. You can expect this stovetop espresso maker to last.
And if you think that its 8-sided shape is simply for aesthetics, you’re wrong. The design is made to diffuse heat efficiently, which enhances aroma.
This Bialetti model makes 6 cups of flavorful, smooth espresso in approximately 5 minutes. Just don’t turn the heat too high so that you avoid any burnt coffee taste.
Pros:
Cons:
This Bialetti stovetop espresso maker is perfect for those who love the classic Italian style and flavorful cups of Joe.
Vremi Stovetop Espresso Maker, 6-Cup VRM010010N
This Italian coffee maker design matched with a classic black color makes the Vremi stovetop espresso maker an elegant coffee partner. It makes six demitasse cups that will satisfy you and a partner or friend.
This decagon shaped stovetop maker is designed as such to diffuse heat efficiently and boost the coffee aroma. This stovetop espresso maker also works on an induction hob and electric stovetop cookers.
The ergonomic rubberized handle ensures that your hand is safe from burning and allows for secure handling while pouring hot coffee.
Pros:
Cons:
For its affordability, great aesthetics, and flavorful coffee, who wouldn’t want to have the Vremi stovetop espresso maker?
LuxHaus Stovetop Espresso Maker, 6-Cup
The LuxHaus stovetop espresso maker is made of pure stainless steel for lifelong use. It won’t rust or flake compared to other Moka Pots made from inferior materials.
It makes full-bodied, aromatic espresso shot equivalents, which will make you skip the drip coffee. Making your coffee at home saves you a lot of money from cafes!
The heat-resistant handle gives more room for your fingers to prevent burning, and the stainless steel is a classy addition to any kitchen.
This stovetop coffee pot is not just great for gas stoves; it works well on induction and electric stovetops too.
Pros:
Cons:
The LuxHaus makes great-tasting coffee, and best of all, its lifetime warranty assures you that you’re getting a top-quality product.
Godmorn Stovetop Espresso Maker
This Godmorn stovetop espresso maker is an Italian-inspired design. It doesn’t feature the common octagon-shaped of most Italian Moka pots, but it does make aromatic and flavorful cups of Joe.
This Godmorn coffee maker yields nine standard espresso cups, more than enough for two. It has a polished stainless steel body, which makes it easy to clean and maintain, and it doesn’t rust or flake.
This gas stovetop espresso maker also works on other types of heat sources. The brewing method works on induction, electric, ceramic, and even open flame.
However, using this espresso maker on open flame turns the bottom black, making it unsightly. The good thing is, it doesn’t affect the quality of the brew.
Pros:
Cons:
This Godmorn model could be the most versatile stovetop espresso maker if you wish to brew coffee on alternative heat sources.
GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker 9 Cup
The GROSCHE Milano stovetop espresso maker has a decagon shape design for better aroma enhancement. The anodized aluminum body makes it more attractive and corrosion-free, a durable choice.
It yields nine standard espresso cups, making it a better choice if you intend to serve a group of espresso lovers. The soft-touch grip has a burn guard to protect your fingers.
The silicone gasket seals the connection between the lower and upper chambers to prevent leaks and maintain pressure. The consistent pressure ensures that the espresso maker will produce top-quality coffee.
The GROSHCE Milano is also available in different colors and designs to perfectly match your preference. It also works on most stovetop types such as gas, electric, and even camping stoves.
Pros:
Cons:
The GROSCHE Milano stovetop espresso maker is an excellent alternative for more popular Bialetti products. The GROSCHE Milano is slightly cheaper as well.
Bialetti Venus Induction 4 Cup Espresso Coffee Maker
The Venus stovetop espresso maker is another unique product from Bialetti. It has a different design, unlike the famous octagon-shaped stovetop pots.
The Venus model is built for induction stovetops, something that other Bialetti products can’t offer. This is great for those of you who desire the Bialetti brand name, but own electric stoves.
This Bialetti coffee maker is relatively small in capacity, making it great for people who live solo. It’s compact and lightweight, making it ideal for traveling, so you won’t miss a day without delicious coffee.
Pros:
Cons:
The great-tasting coffee produced by the attractive and sleek Bialetti Venus stovetop coffee maker is a no-brainer in my book.
bonVIVO Intenca Stovetop Espresso Maker
The bonVIVO Inteca is an Italian-style stovetop espresso maker that is innovated and designed in Germany. The Intenca is distinguished by its sophisticated sense of style, with a dual tone brewer.
The U-style spout design guarantees mess-free and easy pouring. The heat-resistant handle ensures that your hand won’t get burned.
The best thing about the bonVIVO Inteca is that you can use it on almost any stove type. This feature makes it an ideal consideration if you love to travel, as you won’t have to worry about what stove is available for your coffee brewing rituals.
Pros:
Cons:
The bonVIVO Intenca’s ability to use almost any stovetop type is what you’ll consider most with this unique product.
Début – Stainless Steel Italian Espresso Coffee Maker
The Debut stainless steel stovetop coffee maker has a sleek Italian style, ensuring the quality of this coffee maker using 304 stainless steel.
The coffee maker yields six espresso cups, perfect for a small group of espresso lovers. It also makes quick, full-bodied coffee in just 3 to 5 minutes.
The stainless steel handle will not melt even when you put the coffee maker on high heat. Just be careful when touching it as it may burn your hand!
Pros:
Cons:
The Debut stovetop espresso maker is built to last, and versatile as well.
Bialetti Kitty – Italian Espresso Coffee Maker in Stainless Steel
The Bialetti Kitty is not a kitty when it comes to its brewing capacity. It yields ten espresso cups, ideal for a large group of espresso fans.
It is made of stainless steel materials for durability and elegant aesthetics as well. The heat-resistant bakelite handle provides enough clearance to keep your fingers from touching the pot’s hot surface.
The Kitty is adaptable as it can use gas, electric, and ceramic stovetops. Best of all, it makes a rich, aromatic espresso.
Pros:
Cons:
The Bialetti Kitty is one elegant cookware addition to your kitchen. It merely makes excellent espresso, and it brews in a much larger capacity than its counterparts.
Primula Aluminum Espresso Maker – 6 cups
The Primula stovetop espresso maker is made of aluminum material, making it light but durable.
It makes six espresso cups in just about 3 to 5 minutes. That’s quick, so you won’t be waiting too long to drink an excellent espresso!
The heat-resistant plastic handle keeps your hands and fingers from burning. However, you need to be careful when heating the pot on high fire, as the plastic may melt.
The polygon design helps enhance the aroma of the espresso. The pot is not dishwasher-safe, so hand-washing is necessary.
Pros:
Cons:
Affordability meets quality in this Primula aluminum stovetop espresso maker!
IMUSA USA B120-42V Aluminum Espresso Stovetop Coffeemaker
The IMUSA aluminum stovetop espresso maker is our bet for the best budget stovetop coffee pot. It’s made of durable and lightweight aluminum.
For safety, it has a cool-touch hard plastic handle that prevents your hand from burning. The same material is used for the lid knob.
This stovetop espresso maker is relatively small, so it only yields three espresso cups. It’s ideal for a single person, or a couple.
Pros:
Cons:
If you want a budget-friendly stovetop coffee maker, the IMUSA USA B120-42V could be your best pick.
Most Color Options: Bialetti 6 Cup Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker
- Classic Bialetti Moka Pot
- 10-11 color options
- Check it out here
Best for Induction: Vremi Stovetop Espresso Maker, 6-Cup VRM010010N
- Ergonomic handle
- Sleek design
- Check it out here
Lifetime Warranty: LuxHaus Stovetop Espresso Maker, 6-Cup
- Stainless steel design
- Lifetime warranty from manufacturer
- Check it out here
Largest Capacity: Godmorn Stovetop Espresso Maker
- Copper safety valve
- Works on all cooking surfaces
- Check it out here
Best Bialetti Alternative: GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker 9 Cup
- Comes in many colors
- Large capacity
- Check it out here
Best Small Size: Bialetti Venus Induction 4 Cup Espresso Coffee Maker
- Perfect for one or two
- Works on all stovetops
- Check it out here
Most Luxurious: bonVIVO Intenca Stovetop Espresso Maker
- Beautiful design
- High quality materials
- Check it out here
Sleekest Design: Début – Stainless Steel Italian Espresso Coffee Maker
- Beautiful stainless steel
- Round design
- Check it out here
Best Bialetti Choice: Bialetti Kitty – Italian Espresso Coffee Maker in Stainless Steel
- Large capacity
- Works on all stove types
- Check it out here
Best on a Budget: Primula Aluminum Espresso Maker – 6 cups
- Easy to use
- Perfect size brewer
- Check it out here
Most Compact: IMUSA USA B120-42V Aluminum Espresso Stovetop Coffeemaker
- Small capacity
- Affordable
- Check it out here
Frequently Asked Questions
Are stovetop espresso makers good?
Yes! While it’s not going to feel the same as an espresso, these brewers make flavorful coffee. You also have more control over the brewing process and, when done right, the result is worth it.
Who makes the best stovetop espresso maker?
Various brands make excellent stovetop espresso makers. Bialetti is one of the most iconic brands, but being the best depends on your specific needs and requirements.
Which Bialetti is best?
All of them, of course! But still, the best Bialetti would depend on your requirements and preferences. Many Bialettis don’t work on electric cooktops, so this is definitely something to keep an eye out for.
Do stovetop espresso makers make crema?
Yes, although the crema produced is not as velvety as compared to high-end espresso machines.
Conclusion
Choosing a Moka Pot for your morning brew is a wonderful and classic choice. You too can have a delicious espresso brew without worrying about purchasing a bulky and expensive machine.
Happy Brewing!