Filter Coffee Makers

Filter coffee makers are a straightforward, reliable alternative to the expensive barista style coffee machines. They're inexpensive to purchase and can be found in the high streets for about PS20.

These filter coffee makers typically come with normal functions, such as an alarm clock that wakes you up with a cup of coffee at just the right moment. They can heat the water to the perfect temperature for brewing filter coffee.

1. Chemex

Since its creation by Peter Schlumbohm, in 1941 the sleek and elegant glass Chemex has been a favorite among coffee lovers. The hourglass-shaped flask is reminiscent of an Erlenmeyer flask which is the source of the name that it takes from (or perhaps Fleming got inspiration from it when writing From Russia With Love). It has been a specialty coffee icon due to its elegant design and crystal clear filter brews.

This filter coffee maker like other pour-over makers such as the V60 dripper or Melitta is manual brewing method where hot water is poured slowly over the ground that has been soaked in a controlled way to ensure a consistent extraction. To make the best Chemex brew, you need to use medium-coarse grinds and the correct filter. Chemex uses more robust filters that are 'lab grade,' as opposed to the thin paper filters used in the majority of filter machines. These filters are able to remove more coffee oils and fines that can give your brew an unpleasant taste.

filter coffee maker uk Coffeee will be ready for drink once the Chemex has been filled. Allow your brew to 'bloom,' or absorb the water for 30 seconds before pouring. This will help the ground expand and absorb it to ensure that the brew does not over-extracted.

The only downside of a Chemex coffee maker is that it takes more time to make a cup of coffee than other filter coffee makers and requires some expertise to get the most effective results. It's not as good at making large batches of coffee as an electronic filter machine. So it's better for those who prefer small batches and manual brewing.

2. Moccamaster

Although it might not have all the bells and whistles that are found in more modern machines but the Moccamaster is still a reliable and reliable device that is likely to never be outdated. Its brewing method is to heat water just above boiling temperature which is perfect for filter coffee because it helps prevent bitterness.

The fact that the Moccamaster is able to keep the water at an optimal temperature throughout the entire brewing process means it's also an energy-efficient device. Its design makes it easy to take apart and clean, so that the components remain clean and fresh in between usages.

When it comes to making a good filter coffee you should make use of a medium-fine grinder, just like a Chemex or pour-over brewer--to ensure that the grounds are evenly dispersed and don't block water flow. The Moccamaster also comes with shower heads that spray the grounds to ensure an even extraction.

Another great feature of the Moccamaster is that it's very easy to maintain. It's made from high-quality materials, including stainless steel and BPA- and phthalate-free materials. Its flat water tank cover is a breeze to remove, and its wide mouth makes it easy to pour water into--which can be crucial during those coordination-challenged predawn hours.

The Moccamaster is a fantastic choice for those who are seeking an excellent coffee maker. Its build quality and functionality are backed up by an impressive list of coffee aficionados who are using it in their cafes, roasters, and coffee shops--including the triple-Michelin-starred restaurant Alain Ducasse! For a complete range of slow-coffee filtering, check out my friends at Coffee Hit.

3. Wilfa

The Norwegian company Wilfa makes excellent filter coffee machines that have a a focus of simplicity, function and great design. Their products are a perfect example of Scandinavian minimalism. The Classic Tall Filter Coffee Maker is a prime example It has an interesting design that makes this automatic maker stand out from the rest. This premium filter coffee maker has a sense of security, with a 5-year warranty that ensures its longevity.

The design of this brewer makes it simple to set up, fill with water and start making. This brewer comes with a 1 litre water tank that can be easily cleaned. Its pump technology ensures that the entire system is empty after each brew, unlike other coffee makers with filter technology that leave water in the system that affects subsequent brews. This lets you use fresh water for every new batch of coffee, ensuring that your coffee will always taste great.

With the Classic Plus, you'll find an easy-to-use design with many useful features like a flow control knob that can be manually operated (close it for a while to get an even stronger brew) and an overflow drain inside the filter holder, a light that reminds you to descale the appliance, automatic switch off and a manual drip stopper to stop spills from the hotplate. The brewer quickly heats water to the desired temperature of 92-96degC.

This brewer can produce between one and 10 cups of filter-coffee each cup is 250ml and takes three to four minutes to make. The maker comes with the stainless steel thermo jug for keeping the coffee brewed at the perfect temperature for drinking. This is a great feature and an important selling feature over other filter coffee makers that keep the coffee warm on the hotplate.

4. Bonavita

This top-rated auto drip coffee maker will help you unlock the full potential of your coffee. The Bonavita Connoisseur is a sleek and minimalist appliance that is simple to use. It has a stainless steel carafe which holds 1.3 Liters and can be used to filter coffee using flat bottom baskets (not the #4 cones recommended by Moccamaster or other SCAA-certified machines).

The design of the Bonavita is clean and simple and comes with an integrated filter holder that holds the filters in place during brewing. This prevents spills during the process of brewing. The machine is equipped with showerheads that distribute water evenly across the grounds. This helps in the extraction of flavors.

The Bonavita's ability to regulate water temperature precisely is another reason it is a great filter coffee maker. Thermocouple readings from the brew basket showed that the water reached the perfect temperature in just a few minutes. The average temperature of the brew basket remained at 194.6 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the remaining time of the brewing process with only just a few degrees in either direction.

The Bonavita, like other coffee makers that are programmable, can be programmed to begin at a particular time and to set an exact brew time. It can be set to a specific temperature and brew size. This feature allows you to brew only one cup at a go which is ideal for busy families.

One disadvantage of the Bonavita is that it lacks a pre-infusion function, which helps improve flavor by encouraging more of the ground coffee to be soaked with water. It can also be difficult to determine the exact amount of grounds needed, as different coffees have varying densities. It is best to weigh the grounds using a scale instead of using a tablespoon, since this is the most precise method to do it.

5. Melitta

From the company which invented filter coffee comes this machine with a number of features to enhance your drinking experience. There's a drip stop on the filter holder to avoid spills when removing the jug. It also has a handy keep-warm function, so you can take pleasure in your freshly prepared coffee for up to 40 minutes after the brew is completed.

The jug, filter basket and lid are made from high-quality borosilicate glass. The jug and filter basket are easily cleaned by hand or in the dishwasher. The epour also comes with a practical LED limescale indicator that lets you'll know when it's time to descale. This model comes with a built-in bloom setting that helps to release trapped CO2 which can result in an bitter tasting cup.

If you're looking for a device with tiny footprint, this is the one. The Aroma Elegance might be a little taller and wider than the Moccamaster but it can still fit in a corner because of its an angled design. It is easy to use with its clear selection button layout and can be operated with one hand. The water tank is easily removed, making it easy to refill.


Another advantage is that the machine can be programmed to brew at a specific time. This allows you to awake with fresh hot filter coffee, and can save you both time and energy. Aroma Elegance also has other features that can make your brewing experience better, such as programmable water softness, auto-descaling and 3 settings that keep warm. Melitta utilizes chlorine-free papers and sustainably sourced materials in its filters. This is evident in their packaging and products that are 100 100% recyclable.