Filter Coffee Makers
In a sea of expensive barista-like coffee machines, filter coffee makers are the dependable, simple original method of making coffee. They're cheap to buy and can be found in the high streets for about PS20.
These filter coffee makers have various functions including a timer to make you feel refreshed with a cup of coffee at the perfect time. They heat water to the perfect brewing temperature for filter coffee.
1. Chemex
The sleek, stylish glass Chemex coffee maker has been a popular choice amongst coffee enthusiasts since it was invented by Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. The hourglass-shaped flask is like an Erlenmeyer flask which is probably the source of the name that it takes from (or maybe Fleming took inspiration from it when writing From Russia With Love). It's been a coffee icon for its stylish aesthetics and crystal clear filter brews.
This filter coffee maker, similar to other pour-over coffee makers like the V60 dripper or Melitta is a manual brewing technique which involves pouring hot water slowly over pre-soaked ground in a controlled way to ensure an even extraction. The key to a good Chemex brew is to ensure that your grinds are medium-fine and you are using the correct filter. Contrary to the thin paper filters used in the majority of filter coffee machines, Chemex uses thicker 'lab-grade filters that remove more coffee fines and oils that could give your brew a bitter taste.
The brew will be ready to drink once the Chemex is filled. A good tip is to let the brew "bloom for 30 seconds prior to pouring, this allows the ground to expand and absorb the water, ensuring that it isn't over extracted.
The downside of a Chemex is that it can take longer than some other filter coffee makers to brew your coffee. It also requires a certain amount of experience to achieve the best results. It's not as adept at making large batches of coffee like an electric filter machine. It's therefore better suited for those who prefer manual brewing and smaller batches.
2. Moccamaster
While it may not come with all the bells and whistles that are found in more modern devices but the Moccamaster is still a reliable and reliable device that will likely never lose its appeal. The method used to brew coffee will heat water to a point that is just above boiling temperature, which is perfect for filter coffee because it helps prevent bitterness.
The fact that the Moccamaster can keep the water at an ideal temperature throughout the entire brewing process, makes it extremely energy efficient. Its design makes it simple to disassemble and wash, so that the components remain fresh and clean between uses.
If you want to make a good filter coffee, you'll want to use a medium-fine grind--just like a Chemex or pour-over brewer--to ensure that the grounds are evenly distributed and don't block the water flow. The Moccamaster also includes shower heads that spray the grounds to ensure an even extraction.
Another great feature of the Moccamaster is that it's easy to maintain. It's made of high-end materials, including stainless steel, as well as BPA and phthalate-free plastics. 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 an excellent option for those 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! For a comprehensive selection of slow-coffee filtering, check out my friends at Coffee Hit.
3. drip brew produces top-quality filter coffee makers that focus on functionality, simplicity and stunning design. Their products display Scandinavian minimalistism at its best. The Classic Tall Filter Coffee Maker is one such example It is a striking nerdy look that makes this auto brewer stand out from the crowd. It also oozes confidence thanks to a 5-year guarantee that ensures the durability of this top-quality filter coffee maker.
The design of this brewer makes it simple to set up, fill with water and then begin brewing. This brewer features one litre of water that is removable tank that is easy to clean. The pump technology makes sure that the entire system drains with each brew unlike other coffee makers with filter technology that leave water in the system that affects subsequent brews. This allows you to make use of fresh water for each batch of coffee, making sure that your coffee will always taste good.
The Classic Plus has a simple and elegant design. It comes with many useful features, such as a flow control wheel that can be adjusted manually (close it for a few minutes to ensure an even stronger brew), an overflow drain within the filter holder and an alert to descale your appliance, an automatic switch-off, and a drip stopper manual that will stop spills from spilling onto the hotplate. This brewer warms the water quickly to a suitable temperature of 92 to 96 degrees Celsius for the best extraction.
This brewer can make between one and 10 cups of filter coffee. Each cup is 250ml in volume and takes three to four minutes. The brewer includes a thermo jug made of stainless steel to keep the coffee at the ideal temperature for drinking. This is an excellent feature that sets it apart from other filter coffee makers that only keep the coffee warm.
4. Bonavita
This top-rated auto drip coffee maker will allow you to make the most of your coffee. The Bonavita Connoisseur is a sleek and minimalist appliance that is easy to use. It has a stainless-steel carafe with a 1.3-liter capacity and can be used with standard flat bottom filters (not the #4 cones that are recommended by Moccamaster and other SCAA-certified equipment).
The design of the Bonavita is clean and simple, and it includes an inbuilt filter holder that holds the filters in place during brewing. This helps prevent messes during the brewing process. The machine also features a shower head that ensures an even distribution of water across the grounds, resulting in better extraction of aromas and flavors.
Its precise control over the temperature of the water is another reason why the Bonavita is an excellent filter coffee maker. The thermocouple measurements from the brew basin confirmed that the water was at the ideal temperature in just minutes. The average internal temperature remained at 194.6 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the brewing process, with only fluctuating by a few degrees.
Like other filter coffee makers that can be programmed such as the Bonavita can be programmed to turn on at a specific time and set to a specific time to brew. It can also be set to a specific temperature and the size of the brew. This feature makes it possible to make just one cup at a time which is great for busy families.
The Bonavita does not have a pre-infusion function that can enhance flavor by allowing more coffee grounds to be soaked in water. It can also be difficult to accurately determine the amount of coffee grounds needed, since different coffees have a distinct density. The most precise method to measure the amount of grounds is to weigh them on a scale rather than using the equivalent of a teaspoon.
5. Melitta
This machine is made by the company that invented filter coffee. It has a number features to enhance the brewing process. The filter holder comes with a drip-stop to prevent spills while removing the jug. The coffee can be kept warm for upto forty minutes after the brewing.
The jug, the filter basket and lid are constructed of high-quality borosilicate crystals. The jug and filter basket are easily cleaned by hand or in the dishwasher. The epour also comes with an LED limescale indicator that lets you know when it's time to descale. The model comes with an inbuilt bloom setting that helps to release trapped CO2 which can result in an bitter tasting cup.
This machine is perfect for those looking for a machine that has a small footprint. The Aroma Elegance is a little taller and wider than the Moccamaster but can still fit into a corner due to its angled design. It has a easy to use selection button layout and can be easily operated with one hand. The tank of water is easily removable making it easy to fill it up.
Another advantage is that the machine can be programmed to brew at a certain time. This lets you awake with fresh hot filter coffee, and will save you time and energy. Aroma Elegance also comes with other functions that will make your brewing experience better, such as programmable water softness, auto-descaling, and 3 keep warm settings. Melitta is also an eco-friendly brand made from sustainably-sourced materials and chlorine-free paper for their filters. This is evident by their products and packaging which are 100 recycled to a hundred percent.