Best Filter Coffee Machine
A drip filter machine is a great alternative if you're looking for a coffee maker that can filter coffee with no hassle. They're easy to use, affordable and can make a great cup of coffee.
The machine is sleek and visually appealing, and its large showerhead is able to provide solid agitation of the ground. However, its water tank is not marked and feels cheap to use.
1. Easy to clean
Cleaning isn't normally a factor in our ratings but we did take this into consideration, because coffee makers are often used and are difficult to thoroughly clean. We examined the number of nooks and crannies that are on each machine, how many pieces there are, and whether they were easy to remove and clean. It is easier to maintain machines that have fewer components, but they should be cleaned frequently in order to avoid the accumulation of oil and bad smells.
Most filter machines employ glass carafes as well as permanent gold-tone filters that cut down on the waste of plastic and other waste, but some have additional features such as an electronic display or a timer function. Some even come with warming plates that keep your coffee at the perfect temperature for hours after having brewed. The Zojirushi model, for instance, comes with a filter that can be reused to reduce paper waste and convenient markings that take the guesswork out of making the correct amount of water.
Certain machines let you choose between pods or ground coffee. Pods are more convenient and speed up the process of brewing however they can be more expensive over time. Ground coffee is an affordable alternative and also allows for greater customization with various blends and strengths.
This model from Philips is front-loaded this is a nice feature. It also has a large display that is easier to read than smaller numbers on other models. However the tank's water reservoir has prominent ridges, which aren't easy to grasp and detract from its overall look. The reservoir does not contain any cup or ounce markings, so you will need to measure your water with care.
2. Easy to maintain
A steaming pot of filter coffee is a pleasant pleasure, but brewing it at home takes some effort. In this instance, preparing the beans isn't the only thing you need to take care of. It is also necessary to clean the machine and replace filters as necessary. Drip filter machines use an extraction process that is slow by pouring water over the grounds for three-to-four minutes to give a smoother mouthfeel than espresso. This means they require less maintenance than single-serve or espresso machines.
However, they still need periodic cleaning and periodic replacement of parts like a carafe or water tank that can be difficult because some models have components that are hard to reach or require additional tools to remove. Find a filtering machine that has a detachable reservoir to make cleaning and filling easier. Many models have a permanent paper filter that is washable or basket. Some models have only one button to start the brewing process, but others utilize a complex menu system that can be confusing for new users.
The Moccamaster KBG Select is an amazing machine that ticks all the boxes in terms of simplicity of use. This streamlined design combines industrial style with thoughtful features like a copper heating element to make coffee at the perfect temperature (92-96C) to get the best flavor from your beans. It comes in a variety of colors and is easy to fit on your worktop.
Russell Hobbs CM8 is another user-friendly alternative. It is compact, can make 15 cups of coffee and makes use of a heated plate to keep the cup warm for a full hour. The manual was a bit confusing, with some symbols that were hard to comprehend. However the controls are simple to master after a few attempts.
3. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers employ an extended, slower extraction process, unlike espresso machines, which brew more dense coffee in less than 30 seconds. The resultant drink is lighter and less bitter. But all that extra time in contact with hot water may result in the formation of a residue, and you need to clean your machine frequently to avoid a burning smell or taste.
This machine is designed to be easy to use. Its color options are bold and striking, so it's the first thing you see as you get up and can even make you want to drink your morning cup of coffee. We particularly like the permanent gold-tone filter that can help you save money as well as the labels on the filter for half carafe, full carafe and single cups to take the guesswork out of measuring the coffee grounds and water.
However, we were uneasy by the plastic tank that's hidden in the back. The ridges on the opening make it difficult to pour, and can also splash water on the coffee grounds or into the brewing chamber, which can cause you to forget a full cup when refilling.
It's one of the models that is easier to clean since the tank is easily removed and it's dishwasher safe. Apart from that, this machine is sleek and is easy to set up and use. This is a great option for those looking for a reliable, inexpensive filter coffee maker. It can brew up to four decent-size mugs from a carafe that is full and makes use of paper filters. The price is a bit expensive, but it's worth considering if you're looking for a reliable, inexpensive filter coffee maker that has plenty of features.
4. Easy to make
The best filter coffee machines brew delicious-tasting coffee and are simple to use. They have a simple control panel and a clear display, so you know the amount of water and coffee to add and also when to descale. They also work with ground coffee as well as pre-ground coffee, which allows you greater flexibility in the flavor and blends. In the long run they can also be less expensive than pod-based machines.
Some filter coffee machines can be programmed to brew the morning cup of coffee before you even get out of bed. Some models come with a built-in grinder that allows you to grind your own beans. You can also adjust the coarseness. A majority of them can make large quantities of coffee to feed a group or the entire family.
One model that is a joy to use is the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker. It's a retro machine that makes reliable, filter coffee. The filter that is reusable is easy to clean, while the glass carafe is a slick version of a diner's coffeepot and it has a 60-minute warming feature that effectively keeps your coffee hot for an hour. The controls are easy to learn, but it takes some practice. The switch on the side to set the clock feels awkward and the indicator lights are difficult to read in early morning sunlight.
It is possible to brew the filter coffee you want in just eight minutes with the Oxo. The Oxo's brewing process is automated and includes a blooming cycle, which sprays the grounds with water, followed by an in-between time to let them absorb it. Next comes a stage of brewing where hot water is poured over the grounds in a five-minute cycle. The coffee that results is robust and smooth, with some sweetness. It doesn't have any timer or way to set the strength of the brew but it's easy to use and has a sleek design that looks great on your kitchen worktop.
5. Easy to clean
Unlike espresso machines (ideal for milky lattes and cappuccinos) which brew denser coffee in only 30 seconds, filter coffee makers use a longer extraction process to produce a more fruity and more mellow mouthfeel. Searches for these devices at John Lewis are up 295 percent this year, which suggests they're becoming a popular alternative to pods or bean-to-cup systems.
They typically include a water reservoir, glass carafe and filter basket, with some even having an oven or thermal jug to keep your coffee warm after making. drip machine coffee are less complicated than bean-to cup or pod machines, and anyone with a basic understanding can use these machines.
Some filter coffee machines come with their own filter that is reusable and can save money on paper, while some allow you to load in your own instant or pre-ground coffee. You can choose between automatic or manual operation, and select from a variety of settings, including temperature, brew intensity, and the size of the batch, which ranges from a single cup up to one pot.
While many of our picks have sleek designs and a minimalist design, you can also find filter coffee makers with more retro or colourful designs if that's more your taste. For instance, this Smeg model has a playful bulbous shape and comes in several bright hues. The only downside is its bigger footprint could take up more counter space than some other models.
The cheapest models tend to be made of plastic, whereas the more expensive models tend to be stainless steel or feature a ceramic finish. The ceramic finish can last longer and provide a more premium feel than plastic. Check the manufacturer's manual for care instructions, and note whether the different parts are dishwasher-safe or require hand washing. Also, there will be an indication of how it is easy to take apart and rebuild the machine.