Filter Coffee Makers

In a sea of expensive barista-like coffee machines, filter coffee makers are the reliable, simplistic original method of making coffee. They're cheap to buy and can be found on the high street for about PS20.

These filter coffee makers typically come with normal functions, such as the ability to wake you up with a pot of coffee at just the right moment. They heat the water to the right temperature for brewing filter coffee.

1. Chemex

The sleek, fashionable glass Chemex coffee maker has been a favourite amongst coffee enthusiasts since its invention by Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. The hourglass-shaped flask similar to an Erlenmeyer flask which is where the odd name comes from (or drip coffee brewer maybe Fleming took inspiration from it when writing From Russia With Love). It's been an icon in the world of specialty coffee because of its elegant design and Drip Coffee Brewer crystal clear filter coffees that are easy to see through.

This filter coffee maker, like other pour-over makers such as the V60 dripper or Melitta is a manual brewing technique that involves pouring hot water slowly over the ground that has been soaked in a controlled way to ensure a consistent extraction. To make the best Chemex brew, it is necessary to use medium-coarse grinds and the correct filter. Chemex utilizes thicker filters, which are lab-grade rather than the thin paper filters found in most filter machines. These filters are able to remove more coffee oils and fines which can give your brew an unpleasant taste.

The beverage will be ready to drink once the Chemex is filled. A good tip is to let your brew "bloom' for 30 seconds before pouring. This allows the ground to expand and absorb the water, ensuring that it isn't over extracted.

The drawback to Chemex is that Chemex is that it will take longer than some other filter coffee makers to make your cup of coffee. It also requires a certain level of expertise for the best results. It also doesn't lend itself as well to making a large number of cups at a time like an electric filter coffee maker which is why it's better for smaller batches, and for those who appreciate the art and science of manual brewing.

2. Moccamaster

The Moccamaster might not come with the bells and whistles that other modern machines do, but it's still an efficient machine that will never go out-of-style. Its brewing process heats water to just above the boiling point, which is ideal for filter coffee since it eliminates bitterness that is sometimes associated with boiled coffee.

The fact that the Moccamaster can keep the water at a perfect temperature throughout the entire brewing process makes it extremely energy efficient. Its design makes it easy to disassemble and wash, so that the components can remain fresh and clean between uses.

If you are looking to make a good cup, use a medium-fine ground. This is the same as a Chemex brewer or pour-over. This will ensure that the grounds are evenly distributed and don't block water flow. The manually operated (close it for a few minutes to enjoy more strength in your beverage) and an overflow drain inside the filter holder, an indicator that reminds you to clean the appliance, automatic switch off and a drip stopper that can be manually operated to stop spills on the hotplate. This brewer heats water quickly to the desired temperature of 92 to 96 degrees Celsius.

This brewer is capable of making between one to 10 cups of filter coffee. Each cup is 250ml and takes about three to four minutes. The maker comes with an stainless steel thermo jug to help in keeping the coffee brewed at the ideal drinking temperature. This is a fantastic feature that sets it out from other filter coffee makers that only keep the coffee warm.

4. Bonavita

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

The Bonavita is simple and clean design. It also has an integrated filter holder that holds the filters while brewing. This helps prevent messes during the brewing process. The machine comes with showerheads that spread water evenly over the grounds. This helps in the extraction of flavors.

Its precise control over water temperature is another reason why the Bonavita is an excellent filter coffee maker. The thermocouple readings of the brew basket showed that the water had reached the perfect temperature in just a few minutes. The average internal temperature stayed at 194.6 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the remaining time of the brewing process, only swinging just a few degrees in either direction.

Like other filter coffee makers that can be programmed like the Bonavita can be programmed to turn on at a specific time and set to a particular time to brew. It is also able to be adjusted to a particular size of brew and temperature. This feature allows you to only brew one cup at a given time, which can be beneficial for families with a busy schedule.

The Bonavita isn't equipped with a pre-infusion function, which can improve flavor by permitting more ground coffee to be saturated with water. It can also be difficult to accurately determine the amount of coffee grounds required, since different coffees have a distinct density. It's best to weigh the grounds using a scale instead of using a spoon, as this is the most precise way to measure it.

5. Melitta

This machine is made by the company that invented filter coffee filter. It has a number features to enhance the brewing process. The filter holder features an anti-drip stop to prevent spills when removing the jug. There's also a handy keep-warm function, so you can enjoy freshly made coffee for up to 40 minutes after the brew is completed.

The jug and filter basket are made from high-quality borosilicate glass. The jug and basket can be cleaned by hand or by using the dishwasher. The epour also has 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.

This machine is ideal for those who are looking for a machine that has smaller footprint. The Aroma Elegance might be slightly taller and wider than the Moccamaster however it still fits into a corner due to its angled design. It is easy to operate with just one hand, and features a clearly laid out design of the selection buttons. The tank for water is easily removed, making it easy to fill.

Another benefit is that the machine can be programmed to brew at a certain time. This can help save time and effort, allowing you to awake to a clean warm filter. The Aroma Elegance comes with a range of other features that make your brewing experience more enjoyable, such as programmable water hardness, auto descaling, and three keep-warm settings. Melitta utilizes chlorine-free paper and sustainably-sourced materials in its filters. This is reflected in their packaging and products, which are also 100% recyclable.