Blog entry by Bessie Moser
A drip filter machine is a great option if you're looking for an espresso maker that can make filter coffee with no hassle. They're easy to use, affordable and make a good cup of coffee.
This machine is sleek and aesthetically appealing, and its large showerhead provides solid agitation of the grounds. The water tank is not marked and it feels cheap.
1. Easy to clean
We don't usually consider 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 parts on each machine. We also looked at how much coffee drip machine it was easy to clean and remove the machine. The fact that there are fewer pieces means less hassle, but every machine must be cleaned regularly to avoid a buildup of burned-on oils and a bad smell or taste.
Some filter machines have an LCD display that is digital and a timer feature. Others use glass caravelles with permanent gold-toned filters in order to reduce the amount of plastic waste. Some even come with a warming plate to keep your coffee at a proper temperature for hours after you've prepared it. The Zojirushi model, for instance, has a reusable filter to cut down on waste paper and handy markings that make it easier to know when you're making the correct amount of water.
Some machines let you choose between pods or ground coffee. Pods are more efficient and can speed up the process of brewing however they can also be expensive over the course of time. Ground coffee can be cheaper, and allows for more personalization with various blends and strengths.
This Machine Drip Coffee is front-loading. It's a nice addition. It also has a big digital display, which is easier to read than smaller numbers on other models. However, the water tank has prominent ridges that aren't comfortable to grip and detract from its overall look. The reservoir does not have any cup or ounce indications, so you'll need to measure your water with care.
2. Easy to maintain
A steaming pot of filter coffee is a pleasant pleasure, but making it at home takes some effort. In this instance, preparing the beans isn't the only thing to do. You also need to clean the machine and replace filters when required. Drip filter machines use a slow extraction process by pouring water over the grounds for three-to-four minutes to give a smoother taste than espresso. As a result, they need 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, which can be tricky since some models come with parts that are difficult to reach or require extra tools to remove. Choose a filter machine that has a detachable reservoir to facilitate cleaning and filling. A lot of models have a permanent, washable filter or a basket to store disposable paper filters. Some models only have one button to start the brewing process, while others have a complicated menu system which can be confusing for new users.
The Moccamaster KBG Select is an outstanding machine that ticks off all the boxes when it comes to ease of use. The sleek design blends industrial style with clever features like copper heating elements to brew at the ideal temperature (92-96C) to bring out the best flavour from your beans. It's available in a range of eye-catching colours and fits perfectly on the counter but it does take up quite a bit of space.
Another option that is user-friendly is the Russell Hobbs CM8. It's compact, able to make 15 cups of coffee and uses plates that are heated to keep the cup warm for a full hour. The manual was a little confusing and some symbols difficult to comprehend, but the controls are easy enough to master after a few tests.
3. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers employ a slower, longer extraction process, unlike espresso machines that can make the more dense cup in less than 30 seconds. This means that the resultant beverage has a lighter taste and isn't as bitter. All that contact with hot water will result in a buildup of residue. You should wash your machine regularly to avoid burning smell or taste.
This machine has been designed to be enjoyable to use from start to finish. The colors are vibrant and eye-catching, so it'll be the first thing you see when you wake up and could even be the inspiration for your morning cup of filtered coffee makers. We especially appreciate the permanent gold-tone filter which will save you money as well as the markings on the filter for half carafe, full carafe and single cups to take all the guesswork out of measuring the water and coffee grounds.
However, we were slightly put off by the plastic tank hidden behind. The ridges on the top of the opening make it difficult to pour, and could also spill water onto the coffee grounds or into the brewing chamber making it easy to miss a full carafe when refilling.
Luckily the tank can be removed and is dishwasher safe, so it's one of the easiest models to clean. Other than that it has a minimalist design and is easy to install and use. This is a great option for those looking for an affordable, reliable filter coffee maker. It can brew four decent-sized cups and a carafe full of coffee. It makes use of paper filters. The price is a bit on the high end, but if you're seeking a low-cost filter coffee maker that doesn't sacrifice features, it's worth a look.
4. Easy to make
The top filter coffee machines make delicious coffee and are simple to use. The control panel is simple and the display is clear, so you can see how much coffee and water to add and when to descale. They also work with both ground coffee and pre-ground coffee, which allows you a greater variety of flavors and blends. In time they also cost less than pod-based machines.
Some filter coffee makers can be programmed to brew the morning cup of coffee before you get out of bed. Some come with a built-in grinder that lets you grind your own beans. You can also alter the degree of coarseness. Most of them can also produce large quantities of coffee to serve a group or the entire family.
The Smeg Drip Coffee Maker is one model that's enjoyable to use. It's a retro-looking machine that makes reliable filter coffee. The filter that is reusable is easy to clean, while the glass carafe is a sleek reincarnation of a diner coffeepot. It also has a 60-minute warmer feature that effectively keeps your coffee hot for an hour. The controls are easy to use, but they require some practice. The switch on the side to set the clock is a bit clunky, and the indicators that light up are difficult to see in the early morning sun.
The Oxo can make filter coffee in just eight minutes. The Oxo's automatic brewing cycle includes a blooming cycle, which showers the grounds with water after it takes a few seconds to let them absorb the water. Then comes the brew phase where hot water is passed over the grounds in a five-minute cycle. The coffee that results is robust and smooth, with a hint of sweetness. It doesn't come with any timer or a way to program the strength of the brew. But, it's easy to use and comes with a stylish look that will look great in your kitchen.
5. Easy to clean
Filter coffee makers, unlike espresso machines, which brew a denser coffee within 30 seconds, employ longer extraction times to give more fruity, lighter mouthfeel. Searches for these kinds of appliances at John Lewis are up 295 percent this year, suggesting that they're becoming a popular alternative to bean-to-cup or pod systems.
Some models include the option of a hot plate to keep your coffee warm once it's been made. They're typically less complicated than pod or bean-to-cup machines and can be operated by anyone with an understanding of how to operate one.
Some filter coffee machines use their own filter that is reusable and saves money on disposable paper, while some allow you to load in your own pre-ground or instant coffee. You can also choose between a manual or an automatic operation, and a variety of settings including temperature, brew strength and the size of the batch, from 1 cup to an entire pot.
There are filter coffee machines that have vibrant or retro designs for those who prefer that style. For example the Smeg model features an edgy bulbous design and comes in a variety of bright hues. The only downside is that its larger footprint could require more counter space than some other models.
The cheapest models tend to be made of plastic, whereas the more expensive models are often stainless steel or have a finish made of ceramic. The ceramic finish can last longer and have an upscale feel than plastic. Look through the manual of the manufacturer for care instructions, and note whether the various parts are dishwasher-safe or require hand-washing. There will also be a description of how it is easy to take apart and rebuild the machine.