Best Filter Coffee Machine
A drip filter machine is a great option if you want a coffee maker to make filter coffee without fuss. They're easy to use, cost-effective and make a good cup of coffee.
This machine is sleek and visually appealing, and its large showerhead is able to provide solid agitation of the grounds. However, its water tank is not marked and feels cheap to handle.
1. Easy to clean
Ease of cleaning isn't usually an element in our ratings but we did take this into consideration due to the fact that coffee makers are frequently used and can be difficult to clean thoroughly. We looked at the number of nooks and crannies that are on each machine, the number of pieces there are, and if they were easy to remove and clean. The fact that there are fewer pieces means less work, but each machine also has to be cleaned regularly to avoid the buildup of oils that have been burned and a bad smell or taste.
The majority of filter machines utilize a glass carafe and permanent gold-tone filters to cut back on plastic waste, but some offer extra features such as an electronic display or a timer function. Some even come with warming plates that keep your coffee at a proper temperature for hours after you've prepared it. The Zojirushi is one example. It comes with a filter that can be reused to cut down on waste paper and handy markings that make it easier to know when you're adding the correct amount of water.
Some machines offer the option of using either ground coffee or pods. Pods may be more convenient and can accelerate the brewing process however they can be more expensive over time. Ground coffee is an affordable alternative and allows for more personalization with various blends and strengths.
The machine is front-loaded. It's a nice addition. It also has a huge digital display, which is much easier to read than the smaller numbers on other models. However the water tank is adorned with prominent ridges, which aren't comfortable to grip and detract from its overall design. It doesn't even have the marks of cup or ounce on the reservoir, which means you'll need to measure out your water with care.
2. Easy to maintain
It's an easy pleasure to enjoy a cup of filter coffee that steams, however, it's a bit of work to brew it at home. In this case, not only do you prepare the beans, but also regularly cleaning the machine and replacing filters as needed. Drip filter machines are machines for extraction which pour water over the ground for three to four minutes. This produces a lighter mouthfeel than espresso. This means they require less maintenance than single-serve or espresso machines.
It is essential to clean them frequently and replace the parts like the water tank or carafe. This isn't easy since some models require special tools or are difficult to reach. It's a good idea to look for an espresso machine that has a water reservoir that is removable to make filling and cleaning easy. Many models have a permanently, washable paper filter or basket. Some use only one button to start the brewing process and others come with a more intricate menu system that may confuse novice users.
The Moccamaster KBG Select is a stand-out machine that ticks all the boxes to ensure ease of use. This sleek design combines industrial style with thoughtful features such as copper heating elements to ensure that you brew at the right temperature (92-96C) to extract the best flavor from your beans. It comes in a variety of striking colours and sits well on the worktop, although it does take up some space.
Russell Hobbs CM8 is another user-friendly option. It's small, it can make 15 cups of coffee and utilizes plates that are heated to keep the cup warm for a full hour. The manual was somewhat confusing with some symbols being difficult to comprehend, however the controls are simple enough to master after a few tests.
3. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers use an enlarging, slower extraction process than espresso machines, which brew more dense cup in less than 30 seconds. The resultant beverage is lighter and less bitter. But all that extra time spent in contact with hot water may cause a buildup of debris, and you'll should clean your equipment regularly to avoid burning flavor or smell.
This sleek machine was designed to be enjoyable to use from start to finish. Its vibrant colors will be the first thing you see upon waking and may even inspire you to make your morning coffee. The permanent gold-toned filter can save you money and the markings for half carafes, full carafes and single cups on the filter will eliminate the guesswork of taking measurements of the grounds and water.
However, we were uneasy by the plastic tank that's tucked away in back. The ridges on the top of the opening make it difficult to pour and can also splash water on the grounds of coffee or into the brewing chamber making it easy to forget a full cup when refilling.
It's one of the models that are easier to clean since the tank can be easily removed and is dishwasher safe. The machine is also simple to use and has a minimalist design. It's a great budget option for anyone looking for an affordable, but reliable filter coffee maker. Coffeee UK can brew four decent-sized cups with a large carafe. It makes use of paper filters. The price is slightly on the high price, but if looking for an inexpensive, reliable filter coffee maker with a lot of features, this is a good option.
4. Easy to make
The top filter coffee machines make delicious coffee and are simple to use. The control panel is simple and the display is clear, so you can see the amount of coffee and water to add and when you should descale. They are also compatible with ground coffee as well as pre-ground coffee, giving you greater flexibility in the flavor and blends. They are usually cheaper than pod-based machines over time, too.
Some filter coffee makers can be programmed to make the morning cup of coffee before you get up. Some models come with a built-in grinder that lets you grind your own beans. You can also alter the degree of coarseness. A majority of them can produce large amounts of coffee to feed a group or the entire family.
One model that's a joy to use is the Smeg Drip Coffee Maker. It's a retro-looking device that makes reliable filter coffee. The filter is reusable, making it easy to clean. The glass carafe looks like a retro diner coffeepot. It also comes with an automatic 60-minute warming system that can keep 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 clunky and the indicators that light up are difficult to read in the early morning sun.
The Oxo can brew filter coffee in less than eight minutes. The Oxo's brewing process is automated and includes a bloom cycle, which showers the grounds with water after an in-between time for them to soak the water. The next step is a brew phase where hot water is poured over the grounds in a five-minute cycle. The coffee is smooth and strong with a slight sweetness. It doesn't have a timer or a way to programme the brew strength, but it is easy to use and comes with a stylish design that will look stunning on the kitchen counter.
5. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers are different from espresso machines, that brew a more dense coffee in just 30 seconds, utilize longer extraction times to give more fruity, lighter mouthfeel. John Lewis has seen a 295 percent increase in searches for these kinds of appliances this year. This suggests that they are a growing popular alternative to pod or bean-to-cup systems.
These machines typically come with a glass carafe, water reservoir and filter basket - with some even having the option of a hot plate or a thermal jug to keep your coffee warm after brewing. They're typically less complicated than pod or bean-to cup machines and can be used by anyone with an understanding of how to operate one.
Some filter coffee machines use their own filter that is reusable and can save money on paper, while others allow you to add your own pre-ground or instant coffee. You can also pick between manual or automated operation and a range of settings, including the temperature, brew strength and the size of the batch, from 1 cup to an entire pot.
You can find filter coffee machines with vibrant or retro designs for those who prefer that style. This model from Smeg, for instance, features a fun design and comes in a range of vibrant colors. The only downside is that its larger footprint may be more prone to taking up counter space than some other machines.
The most affordable models are made of plastic, while the more expensive models tend to be stainless steel or have a ceramic finish. These are more likely to be more luxurious and is more durable than plastic. Check the manufacturer's manual for care instructions, and also note whether the different components are dishwasher safe or require hand-washing. The manufacturer's manual will also explain how easy it is for you to take apart and rebuild your machine.