A tiny octagonal brewing pot for your coffee that promises big flavor, the moka pot is an incredible, budget appliance that delivers the perfect espresso every single time.
So, let’s not waste any time and dive right into understanding everything about this ingenious appliance and picking out the best moka pot available in the market now.
How Does a Moka Pot Work?
A moka pot is a simple mechanism made up of three parts – the boiling chamber for water, the central filtering basket for coffee grounds, and the top chamber with a tube that sends up the concentrated coffee extract into the main pot.
In simple terms, the water which is stored in the bottom part of the moka pot travels through the coffee grounds taking on their flavors, taste and aroma, and settles down in the top half.
It is a fairly simple and efficient process.
Although moka pots don’t technically make espresso —they use a lower amount of pressure than a real espresso machine — the coffee you get is very rich, bold and strong.
Some machines will even produce a bit of crema just like high-end espresso machines.
If you are using your moka pot to make cappuccinos or lattes at home, you will be more than satisfied, but if you are very particular about your shots of thick, creamy espresso, a moka pot may not be for you.
Things to Consider Before You Purchase a Moka Pot
Before you get your wallet out and start browsing the internet, you need to understand some things about a moka pot.
Additionally, you need to ask yourself some questions with regards to your frequency of use and the number of people using the appliance that will help you decide the model that works best for your specific needs.
Let’s get right to it.
Aluminium vs. Stainless Steel
The moka pots available in the market are either made of aluminium (the traditional material used) or stainless steel (the contemporary alternative).
The material doesn’t make much of a difference to the taste of the coffee (do note that aluminium has the tendency to become corrosive over long periods of time) as long as you buy a trusted brand, but aluminium appliances usually aren’t dishwasher safe.
So, if you are looking for something that is very low maintenance, I would recommend choosing a stainless steel moka pot.
Maintenance
Speaking of maintenance, moka pots in general don’t require intensive care. But, as I said aluminium moka pots will need to be handwashed every time.
With that said, note that it is quite easy to clean a moka pot (even if it is by hand) because they don’t require aggressive scrubbing. Just a light rinse can usually do the job.
To descale you appliance (recommended once in a month depending on your usage), simply use some lime juice and baking soda instead of coffee in your pot on the stove.
Capacity
Traditionally, moka pots were only made as a single-serve appliance, but now most models are available in a range of different sizes.
You need to consider your usage before you make the purchase. Note that for some models, the price may increase for bigger capacity versions.
Best Moka Pot in 2022?
Now that we know how it works and the things to consider before making a purchase, let’s look at some of the best moka pots that will look, smell and produce the most wonderful things on your stove top or kitchen counter.
1. Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker
Having been around for over 80 years, the Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker is basically a classic, absolutely stunning and timeless renaissance painting of Moka Pots.
It is an iconic piece that continues to remain a household favorite in Italy (the Moka Pot’s original home) and beyond.
The Bialetti Moka Express produces a rich, authentic espresso in just minutes. The eight-sided aluminum pot allows it to diffuse heat perfectly to enhance the aroma of your coffee.
The appliance is compatible with both gas and electric stoves and comes in a range of different sizes and colors.
Bialetti also generously provides all their customers with a two-year warranty, setting an example for every other classic household name.
Since the Bialetti Moka Express is made of aluminum, it is not dishwasher-safe, and that’s it’s only disadvantage. The appliance needs to be hand-washed every time, although it is a detergent-free, zero-waste appliance.
Since early 1930s, when it was first introduced in the market, Bialetti has sold over 200 million units. If that’s not praise enough, I don’t know what is.
2. Bialetti Kitty Stainless Steel Espresso Maker
The modern art to Bialetti’s renaissance painting, the Bialetti Kitty Stainless Steel Espresso Maker produces the same authentic Italian espresso, using the same brewing technique, as the original Moka Express.
Made of stainless steel instead of aluminum and with a more contemporary design, this is a great appliance for anyone looking to upgrade from the traditional Moka Pot.
With a contemporary rounded design, this stovetop espresso Moka Pot is made from stainless steel and is also compatible with all cook tops including induction.
It is equipped with a practical, drip-less pouring spout as well as Bialetti’s patented safety valve and an ergonomic, soft touch heat-resistant handle.
The more modern design features the placement of the handle a bit further out from the body of the appliance, which makes it easier for you to keep your knuckles safe while pouring hot java.
The Bialetti Kitty comes in three different cup sizes. Unlike its classic cousin, the stainless steel appliance is dishwasher-safe.
Going head-to-head with its more seasoned counterpart, the Bialetti Kitty has has often been pronounced “best Bialetti ever”. The biggest issue highlighted in the seems to be that the appliance is actually manufactured in China instead of Italy.
While it’s worth nothing, I personally don’t think the manufacturing location makes much of a difference as long as the brand the same quality for all its products.
3. Grosche Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker
The Grosche Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of a strong shot or double shot of espresso. Compared to filter coffee makers, this brewing method extracts more caffeine and flavours.
This gives stovetop espresso a stronger and richer brew than a percolator.
Made from food safe aluminium a non-toxic silicone gasket sea, the Grosche Milano can be used on gas as well as electric stoves. The appliance features a burn guard on the grip to protect your fingers from touching hot surfaces.
In addition, it also features a ‘Made in Italy’ certified safety valve that prevents internal pressure from increasing to a dangerous point. The pot comes in 3, 6 and 9 cup sizes and a few classic color options.
The only drawback of this appliance is that it is made of aluminium and therefore cannot be washed in a dishwasher, but the brand’s commitment to social causes more than makes up for this little disadvantage.
Grosche pledges to provide 50+ days of safe drinking water for people in need for every product they sell.
The Grosche Milano is definitely worth every dollar you spend. “Great product with great ethics”, “beautiful” and “this pot will save you money” are some of the great takeaways from the customer reviews.
4. Cuisinox Roma Stainless Steel Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker
If you are looking for the taste of a traditional moka pot coffee, but with a modern appliance that is sleek and low maintenance, the Cuisinox Roma Stainless Steel Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker is your best friend.
A high-end, sophisticated home appliance, the Cuisinox Roma is perfect for anyone looking for a long-term commitment and a quality product.
Made from heavy gauge 18/10 stainless steel in mirror polish finish, not only does this appliance make great espresso, but it also looks damn good brewing it on your kitchen counter.
It comes in 4, 6 and 10 cup sizes, with an extra gasket, reducer and an astonishing 25-year warranty.
The Cuisinox Roma is compatible with electric, induction as well as gas stoves. It is extremely durable (a result of the top-notch materials it is made out of) and the corner-less design makes it extremely easy to clean.
As I said, this is a high-end product which means the big bucks, but for anyone looking to make an investment, it is most definitely worth every penny.
With an average great reviews among its customers for quality of material and durability, the appliance seems to be consistent and promising in its quality and output.
“Works flawlessly”, “great purchase” and “makes fabulous espresso” were some of the noteworthy reviews given to the Cuisinox Roma by satisfied customers.
5. Alessi La Cupola Espresso Coffee Maker
An iconic piece of contemporary industrial design, the Alessi La Cupola Espresso Coffee Maker was designed in 1988 by Aldo Rossi. It was created from the desire of the designer to create a coffee pot easily available for everyone, thus gaining a lot of public success.
This coffee maker has a small table architecture with a dome-shaped top. The appliance is both functional and great to look at.
The body of the Alessi La Cupola is made of aluminum, while its handle and knob are thermoplastic resin. The appliance is available in 1, 3 and 6 cup sizes and two color options (black and red).
The only drawback of this appliance is that it can only be handwashed – the aluminum makes it not safe for a dishwasher. However, the Alessi La Cupola is extremely durable, easy to use and will last you a lifetime if maintained with care.
What more could a coffee lover want? As an added bonus, Alessi also offers a 60-day return policy on all its products and free shipping worldwide for orders over a specific amount.
Some of the notable reviews include statements like, “amazing quality”, “superb design and construction” and “beautiful product”. Trust me, it couldn’t get better than this. If you are able to afford it, the appliance will not disappoint you.
6. Alessi Pulcina Espresso Coffee Maker
Moving from one work of art to the next, and this one really is made especially for all the artsy folks out there, the Alessi Pulcina Espresso Coffee Maker revolutionary moka pot that combines the technology developed by illycaffè and the design experience of the Alessi brand over all these years. Designed by Michele de Lucchi,
Pulcina features a small but substantial design innovation that puts it at the forefront of coffee maker design. The appliance stops dispensing the drink at just the right time before the coffee starts to get the bitter aftertaste.
This helps to enhance the full and rich aroma of every cuppa crafted by the Alessi Pulcina. The spout, inspired by a chick’s beak (hence the name of the appliance; the word “Pulcina” in Corsican means chick) allows it to perfectly stop at the correct drop.
The Alessi Pulcina is also made of aluminum like its less fancy cousin, but its handle and knob are made of polyamide not resin. It is also available in three distinct sizes and two color options and is extremely easy to use.
But let’s face it, its best quality is its look.
I have never seen a moka pot with so much character, and I am sure neither have you.
But, as we all know, beauty ain’t cheap, and so the Alessi Pulcina may be out of budget for some of you. However, if you are able to fork out the cash, it will definitely be worth your while. The product comes with the same conditions as other Alessi appliances.
The Alessi Pulcina is fairly new in the market and has not amassed enough ratings on Amazon, but Business Insider swears by it, especially when it comes to the aesthetics. If you are looking for a conversation starter and yet functional coffee maker, the Pulcina is the way to go.
7. Tops Rapid Brew Stovetop Coffee Percolator
Homegrounds recommends that you “choose this one if you are feeling the design, which is pretty damn nice”, and I completely agree. The Tops Rapid Brew Stovetop Coffee Percolator defines simplicity and easy of function.
It is also the perfect appliance if you are looking for something to use outdoors on a gas burner or fire.
The Tops Rapid Brew is made of sparkling high-luster heavy gauge 18/8 stainless steel with a clear glass cover knob to observe brew strength. The basket and stem assembly are made out of high-quality solid metal.
The appliance is equipped with a Permawood wood grain handle which makes it easier to handle the stovetop even when hot. Available in 6, 9, and 12 cup sizes, the Tops Rapid Brew is easy to use, clean and best of all, extremely easy on your wallet.
The Tops Rapid brew has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon with 75% of customers giving it a full rating.
Additionally, Homegrounds voted it the best moka pot for camping and outdoors. Looking to do something adventurous soon and would like to bring your coffee maker with you? The Tops Rapid brew is here to answer all your prayers!
8. Coletti Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot
Speaking of adventures, here’s another heavy-duty durable moka pot that will probably outlive your grandchildren. T
he Coletti Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot is an appliance made for sipping piping hot cups of coffee around a campfire on a cold, winter night.
And in this scenario, it’s not just you and your loved one, it is a whole group of people as the device only comes in 9 and 12 cup sizes.
Made of 8/8 stainless steel, the Coletti Bozeman is practically indestructible. The attractive wooden handle protects your hand when it’s time to pour your freshly perked coffee, and of course, there’s a glass button at the top so you can see your coffee bubbling up from the bottom as it drips through the grinds.
The appliance is extremely user-friendly and its size and simple design makes it very easy to clean. The best part is that you can also just toss it right into your dishwasher and not think twice.
Coletti guarantees that you will be able to taste the difference with the Bozeman as it “extracts a fuller, richer flavor”.
Another great thing about the brand Coletti is that it is a veteran-owned company and the 10% of the proceeds from their products go to charity. Your coffee obsession might actually help someone in need, isn’t that exactly what we all want?
Final Thoughts
As any coffee enthusiast will tell you, a shot of espresso is absolutely magical – the bold taste of coffee, the instant pick me up, and the lingering aroma.
However, it takes only the best equipment and skills to make the perfect espresso shot.
Of course, you could buy an espresso machine for an arm and a leg, but for most of us on a budget, that’s just not an option.
If you’re a fan of K cup coffee making, you might also like Practical Guide with 15 Tips for Using Reusable K Cup Pods
Alright then, permission to dance around the kitchen counter granted! So, what are you waiting for?
Are you using another moka Pot that’s not on my list? Or have you recently bought one of the models above?
