Filter Coffee Makers

Filter coffee makers are a straightforward reliable alternative to expensive barista-style coffee machines. They're inexpensive to purchase and can be found on the high street for around PS20.

These filter coffee makers usually come with normal functions, such as the ability to wake you up with a pot of coffee at just the right moment. They make sure that the water is heated to the ideal brewing temperature for filter-coffee.

1. Chemex

The sleek, fashionable glass Chemex coffee maker has been a favourite by coffee drinkers since its invention by Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. The hourglass shaped flask is similar to an Erlenmeyer flask which is probably the source of the name from (or maybe Fleming took inspiration from it when he wrote From Russia With Love). It's been a cult in the specialty coffee scene for its sleek design and crystal clear filter brews that are easy to see through.

Like other pour over coffee makers like the V60 dripper and Melitta filter coffee maker is a manual method of brewing where hot water is poured over pre-soaked grounds in a steady, controlled way that allows for an even extraction of flavor. The key to a successful Chemex brew is to make sure that your grinds are medium-fine and that you use the correct filter. In contrast to the paper filters that are thin and found in the majority of filter coffee machines, Chemex uses thicker 'lab-grade filters that remove more coffee oils and fines that can cause your brew to have a bitter taste.

Once the Chemex is full, you simply lift out the filter and the beer is ready for drinking. Let your brew bloom,' or absorb the water for 30 seconds before pouring. This will help the ground expand and absorb it so that the brew is not over-extracted.

The only downside of the Chemex coffee maker is that it takes more time to brew a cup of coffee than other filter coffee makers, and requires expertise to get the best results. It's not as efficient at making large quantities of coffee like an electronic filter machine. It's therefore better suited for those who prefer manual brewing and smaller batches.

2. Moccamaster

The Moccamaster may not have the bells and whistles more modern devices have, but it's still a reliable machine that will never be outdated. The method used to brew coffee will heat water to a point that is just above the boiling point, which is perfect for filter coffee since it helps prevent bitterness.

The fact that the Moccamaster can keep the water at an ideal temperature throughout the entire brewing process means it's also an energy-efficient device. Plus, its design allows it to be easily taken apart and cleaned, ensuring that the components can be kept fresh and clean between uses.

If you're looking to make a good cup, use a medium-fine ground. This is similar to the Chemex brewer or pour-over. This will ensure that the grounds are evenly dispersed and do not block the water flow. The Moccamaster comes with a showerhead that sprays grounds evenly to ensure that they are extracted.

The Moccamaster has another great feature: it is very easy to maintain. It's made from high-quality materials, like 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 great choice for filter coffee enthusiasts who are looking for 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! Coffee Hit has a full range of slow drip coffee maker coffee filters.

3. Wilfa

The Norwegian company Wilfa makes excellent filter coffee machines that have a the focus on simplicity, efficiency and stunning design. Their products showcase Scandinavian minimalistism at its finest. The Classic Tall Filter Coffee Maker is one such example It is a striking nerdy look that makes this auto maker stand out from the rest. It also oozes confidence thanks to a a 5 year guarantee warranty which ensures the long-term durability of this top-quality filter coffee maker.

This brewer is simple to use. Simply fill it with water, and you are able to start brewing. This brewer features a 1 litre removable water tank that is easy to clean. Its pump technology ensures that the entire system is empty with each brew unlike other filter coffee makers that leave water in the system, affecting subsequent brews. This allows you to use fresh water for each new batch of coffee, making sure that your coffee will always taste good.

The Classic Plus has a simple but elegant design. It is equipped with a number of useful features, including a flow control wheel that can be manually adjusted (close it for a few minutes to make more strength in your drink) and an overflow drain inside your filter holder as well as the reminder to clean your appliance, an automatic shut-off, and the drip stopper manual to stop spills from spilling onto the hotplate. The brewer heats water quickly to a desirable temperature of 92-96 degrees Celsius for optimal extraction.

The brewer can make between one and ten cups of filter coffee each cup is a generous 250ml and takes around three to four minutes to make. The brewer comes with a thermo jug made of stainless steel to keep the coffee at the ideal temperature for drinking. This is a great feature that sets it apart from other coffee makers that only keep the coffee warm.

4. Bonavita

Get the most out of your coffee with this top-rated auto drip brewer. The Bonavita Connoisseur is a sleek and minimalist appliance that is user-friendly. It comes with a stainless-steel carafe that can hold 1.3 liters and can be used to filter coffee using standard flat bottom baskets (not the cones #4 recommended by Moccamaster or other SCAA-certified machines).

The design of the Bonavita is simple and clean and comes with a built-in filter holder that keeps the filters in place while the brewing process. This prevents mess during the brewing process. The machine comes with showerheads that spread water evenly over the ground. This allows for better extraction of flavors.

The Bonavita's ability of controlling water temperature precisely is another reason it is a great filter coffee maker. The thermocouple readings of the brew basket showed that the water had reached the desired temperature within minutes. The average internal temperature remained at 194.6 degrees Fahrenheit for the remaining time of the brewing process with only just a few degrees in either direction.

The Bonavita is, like other coffee makers that can be programmed, can be programmed to begin at a particular time and to set the brew duration. It can be set to a particular temperature and the size of the brew. This feature lets you brew only one cup at a time, which can be beneficial for families with a busy schedule.

The Bonavita isn't equipped with the option of pre-infusion that can enhance the flavor by allowing more ground coffee to be saturated with water. It can also be difficult to accurately determine the amount of grounds of coffee needed, since different coffees are of varying density. It is best to weigh the grounds on a scale instead of using a tablespoon, as this is the most precise way to do it.

5. Melitta

From the company that invented filter coffee, is this machine that has many features to enhance your drinking experience. There's a drip stop built into the filter holder, which will prevent spills when removing the jug. The coffee can be kept warm for up to 40 minutes after making.

The jug, filter basket and lid are constructed of high-quality borosilicate crystals. They are easy to clean either by hand or in your dishwasher. The epour also comes with a practical LED limescale indicator that lets you know when it's time to descale. This model also has a built in bloom setting which helps to release CO2 that has been trapped and unintentionally released. This could lead to a bitter tasting cup of coffee.

This machine is perfect for those looking for a machine with a small footprint. The Aroma Elegance may be a little taller espresso and filter coffee machine wider than the Moccamaster but it can still fit in a corner due to its angle design. It is easy to use with its clear selection button layout and can be easily operated using just one hand. The tank of water can be easily removed, making it easy to fill.

Another advantage is that the machine can be programmed to brew at a specific time. This allows you to get up to fresh hot filter coffee, and can save you time and energy. The Aroma Elegance comes with a number of other features to make your coffee brewing experience more enjoyable, including programmable drip coffee maker water hardness, auto descaling, and three keep-warm settings. Melitta makes use of chlorine-free papers and sustainably sourced materials in its filters. This is evident in their packaging and products that are 100% recyclable.