Best Filter Coffee Machine
If you're seeking a coffee maker that will make a smooth filter coffee, an automatic drip filter could be the best option. They're easy to use, cost-effective and make a great cup of coffee.
This machine is sleek and aesthetically appealing, and its large showerhead provides solid agitation of the grounds. The water tank is not marked and feels cheap.
1. Easy to clean
We don't normally factor in the ease of cleaning when evaluating products however, we did because coffee makers can be difficult to clean. We evaluated the number of nooks, crannies, and components on each machine. We also assessed how easy it was to clean and remove the machine. Having fewer pieces typically results in less hassle, however each machine also has to be cleaned regularly to avoid the buildup of oils that have been burned and a bad smell or taste.
Most filter machines use glass carafes and permanent gold-tone filters to cut back on the waste of plastic, but some offer extra features like an electronic display or a timer function. Some even have a warming plate to keep your coffee at the right temperature for hours after having prepared it. The Zojirushi has a reusable paper filter that helps reduce the amount of waste, and has handy markings so you don't have to guess how much water to add.
Some machines allow you to select between ground or pods coffee. Pods are more convenient and can speed up the process of brewing however they can also be more expensive over time. Ground coffee is a less expensive option and allows for more customization.
This model comes from Philips is front-loading this is a nice addition. It also has a big digital display, which is much easier to read than the smaller numbers on some other models. However the water tank is adorned with prominent ridges that aren't easy to grasp and detract from its overall design. The reservoir doesn't contain any cup or ounce indications, so you'll need to measure your water carefully.
2. Easy to maintain
It's a pleasure to sip a cup of steaming filter coffee but it takes some effort to brew it at home. In this instance, it's not just preparing the beans, but also regularly cleaning the machine and replacing filters as needed. Drip filter machines use a slow extraction method by pouring water over the grounds for three to four minutes to produce a lighter taste than espresso. As a result, they need less maintenance than single-serve or espresso machines.
It is important to clean them frequently and replace the parts like the carafe or water tank. This isn't easy since some models require special tools or are difficult to reach. It is a good idea to choose a filter coffee machine with an able water reservoir that can be removed to make filling and cleaning easy. A lot of models come with a permanent washable filter or basket. Some use only one button to begin brewing and others come with a more intricate menu system that may 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 design with thoughtful features such as the copper heating element to brew your coffee at the ideal temperature (92-96C) and bringing out the best flavor from your coffee. It comes in a variety of vibrant colours and will fit perfectly on the kitchen counter, although it does take up some space.
Another user-friendly option is the Russell Hobbs CM8. It's small, it can make 15 cups of coffee, and utilizes an oven to keep the cup warm for an entire hour. We did find the instruction manual a little confusing, with some symbols hard to comprehend, however the controls are simple enough to master after a few trials.
3. Easy to clean
Unlike espresso machines that brew more dense coffee in fewer than 30 seconds filter coffee makers rely on a longer, slow extraction. The resultant beverage is lighter and less bitter. But all that extra time spent in contact with hot water may result in the formation of a debris, and you'll must clean your machine frequently to avoid a burning taste or smell.
This machine is designed to be user-friendly. Its color options are bold and attractive, meaning it'll be the first thing you notice as you get up and could even make you want to drink your morning cup of coffee. The permanent gold-toned filter will help you save money and the markings for half-carafes, single cups, and full carafes on the filter will take the guesswork out measuring the amount of water and coffee grounds.
We were however uneasy by the plastic tank that's tucked away in back. The ridges make it difficult to pour, and they may also splash water on grounds of the coffee or in the brewing chamber. This makes it easy to forget the full carafe when refilling.
It's among the models that are easy to clean since the tank is easily removed and it's dishwasher safe. Apart from that it is minimalist in design and is easy to set up and operate. It's a great budget option for anyone who needs an inexpensive but reliable filter coffee maker. It can brew up to four decent-size mugs from a full carafe and uses paper filters. Its price tag is a bit on the high end, but if you're seeking a low-cost filter coffee maker with a lot of features, it's worth a look.
4. Easy to brew
The best filter coffee machines make delicious coffee and are easy to use. The control panel is simple and the display is clear, so you know the amount of coffee and water to add and when to descale. They can be used with ground and pre-ground coffees and offer a variety of choices for blends and flavors. In the long run they also cost less than pod-based machines.
You can program some filter coffee machines to brew your morning cup of joe before you get up. Others have an integrated grinder that you can grind your own beans and alter the coarseness of the grind. A majority of them can make large amounts 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-looking machine that makes reliable filter coffee. The reusable filter is simple to clean, and the glass carafe is a slick reincarnation of a diner coffeepot and it has a 60-minute warming feature that effectively keeps your coffee hot for up to an hour. The controls are easy to learn however it requires a little practice. The toggle on the side to set the clock feels clunky and the indicator lights are difficult to see in the early morning sun.
The Oxo can brew filter coffee in just eight minutes. The brewing process is automated and features a bloom cycle that pours down the grounds with an interval of time to allow them to absorb the water, followed by it's a brew cycle in which the hot water passes over the grounds for about five minutes on average. The resulting coffee is robust and smooth, with a hint of sweetness. It doesn't come with any timer or way to program the strength of the brew but it's easy to use and comes with a stylish design that will look stunning on your kitchen worktop.
5. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers unlike espresso machines which brew a denser coffee in 30 seconds, utilize an extended extraction process to produce more fruity, lighter mouthfeel. John Lewis has seen a 295 percent increase in searches for these types of equipment this year. This suggests that they are an increasingly popular alternative to pods or bean-to-cup systems.
Some models include a thermal jug or hot plate to keep your coffee warm once it's been prepared. These machines are less complicated than bean-to cup or pod machines and anyone with a basic knowledge of them can make use of them.
Certain filter coffee machines come with filters that are recyclable that can save you money on paper. Others allow you to load your own coffee beans or instant coffee. You can also select between a manual or an automatic operation and a variety of settings that include temperature, brew strength and the size of the batch, from a cup to an entire pot.
You can find filter coffee machines that have colorful or retro designs, if you prefer that style. For instance this model from Smeg has a playful bulbous shape and comes in several bright hues. best drip coffee maker of this model is that it may have more counter space than other models due to its larger footprint.
The cheaper models are usually constructed of plastic, while more expensive models have the stainless steel finish or a ceramic finish. These have a tendency to have a premium feel and is more durable than plastic. Check the manufacturer's manual for cleaning instructions, and then note whether the parts are dishwasher-safe or require hand washing. Also, there will be an indication of how it is easy to take apart and reassemble the machine.