Filter Coffee Makers
Filter coffee makers are a straightforward reliable alternative to expensive barista-style coffee makers. They're affordable to purchase and can be found in the high streets for about PS20.
These coffee makers for filtering typically include normal functions like an alarm clock that wakes you up with a cup of coffee at just the right time. They can heat the water to the ideal temperature for brewing filter coffee.
1. Chemex
The sleek, stylish glass Chemex coffee maker has been a favorite by coffee drinkers since it was first invented by Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. The hourglass-shaped flask reminiscent of an Erlenmeyer flask, which is likely the source of the name that it takes from (or maybe Fleming got inspiration from it while writing From Russia With Love). It's become a symbol in the world of specialty coffee for its stylish aesthetic and crystal clear filter brews that are easy to see through.
This filter coffee maker, like other pour-over coffee makers such as the V60 dripper or Melitta is an brewing method that is manual, that involves pouring hot water slowly over pre-soaked ground in a controlled way to ensure a uniform extraction. The key to a successful Chemex brew is to make sure that your grinds are medium-fine and that you use the correct type of filter. Contrary to the thin paper filters used in many filter coffee machines, Chemex uses thicker 'lab-grade filters that remove more of the coffee fines and oils that can cause your brew to have a bitter taste.
The brew will be ready to drink once the Chemex has been filled. It is a good idea to let your brew "bloom for 30 seconds prior to pouring, this allows the ground expand and absorb the water to ensure that it isn't over extracted.
The downside of Chemex Chemex is that it will take longer than some other filter coffee makers to make your cup of coffee and requires a certain level of expertise to get the best results. It also doesn't lend itself to making a lot of cups in one go like an electric filter coffee maker, so it's more suitable for smaller batches, and for those who enjoy the art and science of manual making coffee.
2. Moccamaster
The Moccamaster might not come with the bells and whistles other modern machines do, but it's still an efficient machine that will never go out-of-style. Its brewing process heats the water to just above boiling point which is perfect for filter coffee since it prevents the bitterness that can sometimes be associated with boiled coffee.
The fact that the Moccamaster can keep the water at an optimal temperature throughout the entire brew process means it's also extremely energy efficient. In addition, its design permits it to be taken apart and cleaned, ensuring that the components will remain clean and fresh between uses.
If you want to make a great cup, you should use a medium-fine grind. This is similar to a Chemex brewer or pour-over. This will ensure that the grounds are evenly distributed and don't block water flow. The Moccamaster also comes with shower heads that spray the grounds to ensure even extraction.
The Moccamaster has a further advantage It is also very simple to maintain. It's made of high-end materials such as stainless steel, and 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 choice for filter coffee lovers who want to invest in a premium filter 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 filters for coffee.
3. Wilfa
The Norwegian company Wilfa produces top-quality filter coffee makers that focus on functionality, simplicity and a stunning design. Their products are a perfect example of Scandinavian minimalistic design. The Classic Tall Filter Coffee Maker is a prime example. It has a nerdy appearance that makes it stand out. It also oozes confidence with 5-year guarantee that ensures the durability of this premium filter coffee maker.
This brewer is easy to use. Simply fill it with water, and you can start brewing. The brewer comes with a 1 litre removable water tank that is easy to clean. Its pump technology ensures that the entire system drains after each brew unlike other filter coffee makers that leave water in the system affecting subsequent brews. This enables you to use fresh water for every new batch of coffee ensuring your coffee will always taste good.
The Classic Plus has a simple but elegant design. It has a variety of useful features, including a flow control wheel that you can manually adjust (close it for a few minutes to ensure an even stronger drink) and an overflow drain in the filter holder and a reminder to descale your appliance, an automatic shut-off and a drip stopper manual to prevent spills onto the hotplate. The brewer quickly heats water to the desired temperature of 92-96degC.
This brewer can make between one and 10 cups of filter coffee. Each cup is 250ml and takes between three and four minutes. The brewer comes with the thermo jug, which is made of stainless steel to keep the coffee at the perfect drinking temperature. This is a great feature and a major selling advantage over other filter coffee makers that keep the coffee warm on hot plates.
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's easy to use. It features a stainless steel carafe with a 1.3-liter capacity and can be used with standard flat bottom filters (not the cones in #4 that are recommended by Moccamaster and other SCAA-certified machines).
The Bonavita is a simple and clean design. It also comes with an inbuilt filter holder, which is used to hold the filters while the brewing process. This makes it easier to avoid any mess that may occur during the process of brewing. It also comes with a shower head that ensures even distribution of water over the grounds, which results in a greater extraction of aromas and flavors.
The Bonavita's ability of controlling the temperature of water precisely is another reason it is a great filter coffee maker. The thermocouple measurements taken from the brew-basket confirmed that the water reached the ideal temperature in just minutes. The average internal temperature was 194.6 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the brewing process, with only fluctuating a few degrees either way.
The Bonavita, like other coffee makers that are programmable can be programmed to start at a certain time and to set the brew duration. It can be set to a certain temperature and the size of the brew. This feature makes it possible to brew only one cup at a go which is ideal for busy families.
One drawback of the Bonavita is that it lacks a pre-infusion function, which enhances the flavor by allowing more of the coffee to become saturated with water. It can also be difficult to determine accurately the amount of grounds of coffee needed because different coffees have a distinct density. The most precise method to measure the amount of grounds is to weigh them using a scale instead of using the use of a teaspoon.
5. Melitta
From the brand which invented filter coffee is this machine that has many features to improve your coffee brewing experience. The filter holder features a drip-stop to prevent spills while taking the jug out. The coffee can be kept warm for up to forty minutes after making.
The jug and the filter basket are made of premium borosilicate glass. They are easy to clean either by hand or in your dishwasher. Coffeee UK has an effective LED indicator for limescale, so you know when it's time to descale. This model has an inbuilt bloom setting that assists in helping to release CO2 trapped in the system, which can lead to a bitter tasting cup.
This machine is ideal for those who are looking for a machine with smaller footprint. The Aroma Elegance is just slightly larger and wider than the Moccamaster, but it can still be placed in a corner due its angled design. It is easy to use with its easy to use selection button layout and can be easily operated by one hand. The water tank can be easily removed making it easy to refill.
The machine can also be programmed to make coffee at a specific time. This allows you to get up to fresh, hot filter coffee and will save you time and energy. Aroma Elegance also has other features that will make your brewing experience better by allowing you to program water softness, auto-descaling and 3 settings that keep warm. Melitta utilizes chlorine-free papers and sustainably sourced materials in its filters. This is reflected in their packaging and products, which are 100% recyclable.