Best Filter Coffee Machine
A drip filter machine is a good option if you're looking for a coffee maker that can filter coffee with minimal effort. They're easy to use, cost-effective and produce a great cup of coffee.
This machine is sleek and visually appealing, and its large showerhead provides solid agitation of the grounds. However, the water tank has no marking measurements and feels cheap to handle.
1. Easy to clean
We don't normally factor in the ease of cleaning when we rate products, but we did because coffee makers aren't always easy to clean. We compared the number of nooks, crannies, and parts on each machine. We also looked at how it was simple to clean and remove them. It is easier to maintain machines that have fewer components, but they must be cleaned regularly to prevent an accumulation of oil and bad smells.
Some filter machines have a digital display and a timer feature. Others make use of glass caravelles with permanent gold-toned filters that help reduce the amount of plastic waste. Some have even warming plates to keep your coffee at the right temperature for hours after you've brewed. The Zojirushi includes a recyclable paper filter that cuts down on waste and also has convenient markings so you don't have to guess how much water you should add.
Some machines allow you to choose between pods or ground coffee. Pods are more convenient and can speed up the process of brewing however they can also cost a lot over time. Ground coffee is an affordable alternative and allows for more customization with various blends and strengths.
This machine comes from Philips is front-loaded which is a nice touch. It also has a large digital display that is easier to read than the smaller numbers on other models. However the tank's water reservoir has prominent ridges that aren't particularly comfortable to hold and take away from the overall appearance. It doesn't even have ounce or cup markings on the reservoir, which means you'll need to measure the water carefully.
2. Easy to maintain
It's a simple pleasure to enjoy a pot of filter coffee that steams, but it takes some effort to make it at home. In this instance, it's not only do you prepare the beans, but cleaning the machine on a regular basis and replacing filters as needed. Drip filter machines employ a slow extraction process by pouring water over the grounds for a period of three to four minutes to create a more mellow mouthfeel than espresso. They require less maintenance than espresso machines or single-serve machines.
It is important to keep them clean and to replace parts like the carafe or water tank. This can be difficult since certain models require special tools or are difficult to reach. Choose a filter machine that has a detachable reservoir to facilitate cleaning and filling. Many models come with a permanent, washable filter or a basket for disposable paper filters. Some models only require one button to begin brewing and others come with a more complicated menu system that could make it difficult for new users to understand.
The Moccamaster KBG Select is a stand-out machine that ticks all the boxes to ensure user-friendliness. The sleek design blends industrial style with thoughtful features like a copper heating component to make your coffee at the perfect temperature (92-96C), bringing out the best flavors from your beans. It comes in a variety of eye-catching colours and fits perfectly on the kitchen counter but it does take up quite a bit of space.
Another option that is user-friendly is Russell Hobbs CM8. It's small, it can make 15 cups of coffee, and makes use of plates that are heated to keep the cup warm for a full hour. The manual was somewhat difficult with some symbols being difficult to read, but the controls are easy enough to learn after a few tests.
3. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers utilize an extended, slower extraction process, unlike espresso machines, which brew the more dense cup in less than 30 seconds. The resultant beverage is lighter and less bitter. But all that time spent in contact with hot water can result in the formation of a residue, and you need to clean your machine frequently to avoid a burning flavor or smell.
This sleek machine was designed to be enjoyable to use from beginning to end. Its bold colors will be the first thing you see upon waking and may even motivate you to make your morning coffee. The permanent gold-toned filter can save you money, and the indications for half carafes single cups, and full carafes on the filter will eliminate the guesswork of taking measurements of the grounds and water.
We were however disconcerted by the plastic tank that's tucked away in back. The ridges make it difficult to pour, and they could also splash water on grounds of the coffee or inside the chamber that is used for brewing. This makes it easy to miss a full carafe while refilling.
It's among the models that are easy to clean because the tank is easily removed and is dishwasher safe. In addition, this machine is sleek and is easy to install and use. It's a great option for a budget for those who need an inexpensive but reliable filter coffee maker . It can make about four mugs that are decent-sized from a full carafe and utilizes paper filters. Its price is a bit on the high end, but if you're looking for an inexpensive filter coffee maker that doesn't skimp on features this is a good option.
4. Easy to Brew
The best filter machines produce delicious coffee and are easy-to-use. They have an easy control panel and an easy-to-read display that lets you know how much coffee and water you need to add, as well as when to descale. They are also compatible with both ground coffee and pre-ground, which gives you greater flexibility in the flavor and blends. In time, they are also cheaper than pod-based machines.
Some filter coffee machines can be programmed to brew the morning cup of coffee before you even get up. Some models come with a built-in grinder that allows you to grind your own beans. You can also adjust the grind's coarseness. Most of them can also produce large quantities of coffee to feed a group or the entire family.
The Smeg Drip Coffee Maker is one model that is a joy to use. It's a retro machine that produces reliable filter coffee. The filter is reusable, making it easy to clean. The glass carafe looks like a vintage diner coffeepot. It also comes with a 60 minute warmer that keeps your coffee hot up to an hour. The controls are easy to use, but they require some practice. The toggle that sets the time on the side is difficult to use, and the indicators that flash are difficult to read in the early morning light.
It is possible to brew a pot of filter coffee in less than eight minutes using the Oxo. The Oxo's automated brewing process includes a bloom cycle which sprays the grounds with water after an in-between time for them to soak it. The next step is a stage of brewing where hot water is poured over the grounds in a five-minute cycle. The coffee is smooth and strong with a touch of sweetness. It doesn't come with an alarm clock, nor can you program the brew strength. However, it is easy to use and comes with an elegant look that will look stunning in your kitchen.
5. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers unlike espresso machines which make a stronger coffee in 30 seconds, employ a longer extraction to create more fruity, lighter mouthfeel. The searches for these types of equipment at John Lewis are up 295 per cent this year, suggesting they're becoming a popular alternative to bean-to-cup or pod systems.
Some models include a thermal jug or hot plate to keep your coffee warm once it's been made. They're generally less complex than pod or bean-to cup machines and can be operated by anyone with a basic understanding of how to operate one.
Some filter coffee machines have their own filter that can be reused, which saves money on disposable paper, while some allow you to add your own instant or pre-ground coffee. You can choose between manual or automated operation, and select from a variety of settings such as temperature, brew intensity, and batches that range from a single cup to one pot.
You can find filter coffee machines that sport vibrant or retro designs if you prefer that style. For example, this Smeg model has a playful bulbous shape and comes in a variety of bright shades. The only drawback of this machine is that it could be more crowded than other models due to its bigger footprint.
The cheaper models are usually made of plastic, whereas higher-end models have a stainless steel finish or a ceramic finish. The ceramic finish can last longer and offer an upscale feel than plastic. Check the manufacturer's manual for cleaning instructions, and then note whether the components are dishwasher safe or require hand-washing. The manual for the manufacturer will indicate how easy it is for you to take apart and put back together your machine.