Best Filter Coffee Machine
A drip filter machine is a good option if you want a coffee maker to make filter coffee with minimal effort. They are easy to use, cost-effective and make a great cup of coffee.
The machine is sleek and visually pleasing, and its wide showerhead provides solid agitation of the grounds. The water tank is not marked and it feels cheap.
1. Easy to clean
We don't normally factor in the ease of cleaning when rating products however, we did because coffee makers can be difficult to clean. We compared the number of nooks, crannies and components on each machine. We also considered how it was easy to clean and remove them. The fact that there are fewer pieces means less work, but each machine needs to be maintained regularly to prevent a buildup of burned-on oils and a bad smell or taste.
Most filter machines use glass carafes and permanent gold-tone filters to cut down on waste from plastic and other waste, but some have additional features such as a digital display or a timer function. Some include warming tray that keeps your coffee warm for a long time after you've brewed. The Zojirushi comes with a reusable paper filter that cuts down on the amount of waste, and has handy markings to make it easier to guess the amount of water you should add.
Some machines allow you to select between ground or pods of coffee. Pods can be more convenient and can accelerate the brewing process however they can also be more expensive over time. Ground coffee is a less expensive option and allows for more personalization.
This model from Philips is front-loading, which is a nice touch. Coffeee has a huge display that is more easy to read compared to smaller displays on other models. The tank's design is adorned with prominent ridges which are not very comfortable to hold, and hinders the overall look. The reservoir doesn't have any ounce or cup 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 requires some effort. In this instance, it's not only preparing the beans, but also cleaning the machine regularly and changing filters as required. Drip filter machines use an extraction process that is slow, pouring water over the grounds for three to four minutes to produce a lighter taste than espresso. They require less maintenance than espresso machines or single-serve machines.
But, they will require periodic cleaning and occasional replacement of components such as a carafe or water tank that can be difficult since some models come with parts that are hard to reach or require additional tools to remove. It is a good idea to choose a filter coffee machine with a water reservoir that is removable for easy filling and cleaning. Many models come with an enduring, washable filter or a basket to store disposable paper filters. Some models only require one button to start the brewing process and some have a more complex menu system that may confuse novice users.
The Moccamaster KBG Select is a stand-out machine that ticks all of the boxes for user-friendliness. The sleek design combines industrial style with thoughtful features, such as the copper heating element to brew your coffee at the right temperature (92-96C), bringing out the best flavours from your coffee. It's available in a variety of eye-catching colours and fits perfectly on the kitchen counter however it takes up some space.
Another user-friendly option is the Russell Hobbs CM8. It is compact, can make 15 cups of coffee and makes use of a heated plate to keep the cup warm for an entire hour. The manual was a bit hazy with some symbols that were hard to comprehend. However the controls are simple to master after a few trials.
3. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers employ a slower, longer extraction process, unlike espresso machines, which can brew more dense coffee in less than 30 seconds. The resultant beverage is lighter and less bitter. All that contact with hot water can result in a buildup of the residue. You should clean your machine frequently to avoid burning smell or taste.
This machine is designed to be user-friendly. The colors are vibrant and eye-catching, so it's the first thing you notice as you get up and can even inspire your morning cup of coffee. We particularly appreciate the permanent gold-tone filter that will save you money and the markings on the filter for half carafe as well as full carafe and single cups to take the guesswork out of measuring the coffee grounds and water.
We were however uneasy by the plastic tank tucked away in back. The ridges make it difficult to pour, and they could also splash water on the coffee grounds or in the chamber that is used for brewing. This makes it easy to overlook a full carafe while refilling.
Luckily, the tank is removed and is dishwasher safe, so it's one of the simpler models to clean. Apart from that it is minimalist in design and is simple to set up and use. It is a great option for those in need of an affordable, reliable filter coffee maker. It can brew up to four cups and a carafe full of coffee. It uses paper filters. The price is high, but it's definitely worth taking into consideration if you're looking for a reliable, inexpensive filter coffee maker with plenty of features.
4. Easy to brew
The best filter machines produce delicious coffee and are simple to use. They come with an easy control panel as well as a clear display, so you know the amount of water and coffee to add and when to descale. They also work with ground coffee as well as pre-ground, which gives you a greater variety of flavors and blends. In the long run they can also be less expensive than pod-based machines.
You can program some filter coffee machines to brew your morning cup of coffee before you wake up. Some have a built in grinder that lets you grind your own beans. You can also adjust the degree of coarseness. Many can also make a large pot of coffee to serve the entire family or a crowd.
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 reusable filter is easy to clean, while the glass carafe looks like a smooth reincarnation of a diner coffeepot, and it comes with an automatic 60-minute warmer that keeps your coffee hot for an hour. The controls are simple to use, but require some practice. The toggle on the side to set the clock is a bit clunky, and the light-up indicators are difficult to read in early morning sunlight.
The Oxo can brew filter coffee in under eight minutes. Its brewing system is automatic and has a bloom cycle that pours down the grounds after a brief pause that allows them to soak up the water, and then a brew process where the hot water is poured over the grounds for approximately five minutes. The coffee is smooth and strong with a slight sweetness. It doesn't have any timer or way to program the strength of the brew but it's easy to operate and has a stylish design that will look great on your kitchen worktop.
5. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers unlike espresso machines which brew a denser coffee within 30 seconds, employ an extended extraction process to produce a lighter, fruitier mouthfeel. John Lewis has seen a 295 percent increase in searches for these kinds of equipment this year. This suggests that they are an increasingly popular alternative to pods or bean-to-cup systems.
They typically include a glass carafe, water reservoir and filter basket - with some even having a hot plate or thermal jug for keeping your coffee warm after making. They're generally less complex than pod or bean-to cup machines and can be operated by anyone who already has a basic knowledge of operating one.
Some filter coffee machines use their own reusable filter which saves money on disposable paper, while some allow you to load in your own instant or pre-ground coffee. You can also choose between a manual or an automatic operation and a variety of settings that include temperature, brew strength, and batch size from a cup to an entire pot.
There are filter coffee machines that sport colorful or retro designs, if you prefer that style. For example this model from Smeg has an edgy bulbous design and comes in a variety of bright shades. The only downside is that its larger footprint could be more prone to taking up counter space than some other machines.
The most affordable models are usually made from plastic, while the more expensive models are often stainless steel or have a ceramic finish. Ceramic finishes can last longer and provide an upscale feel than plastic. Look through the instruction manual of the manufacturer to find instructions on how to maintain the components. Also, note whether they can be cleaned in the dishwasher or by hand. There should also be a description of how it is easy to take apart and rebuild the machine.