Best Stovetop Espresso Makers – Top 9 Moka Pots Reviewed

A stovetop espresso maker aka Moka Pot is a great alternative to expensive machines. These little devices are incredibly simple to use and require very little effort. Plus, they don’t break the bank.

On the other hand, you may not get quite as creamy espresso from these handy devices, but they do provide great-tasting coffee at lightning speed.

In our tests, Bialetti Moka Express emerged as the best stovetop espresso maker, which was no surprise at all. Its quality is simply unbeatable. No wonder it holds the throne for almost a hundred years.

But that’s not all.

In this blog post, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at the 9 best Moka pots on the market today so that you can choose the perfect model for yourself. Keep reading to find out more about what makes these great little machines tick…

The 9 Best Stovetop Espresso Makers (Moka Pots)

In an effort to help you find the best maker, we spent a few days researching and testing different stovetop espresso makers. The list below is our result.

We’ll detail each machine’s key features and compare their performance against similarly priced models. Let’s start with the best of the best.

Bialetti Moka Express – Best Overall

One of the top features that stud out in our test is high-quality polished aluminium and a distinctive octagonal shape that enhances heat diffusion when brewing with Moka Express.

You will also notice a safety valve that regulates the pressure inside the pot and a stay-cool handle that makes it easy to grip and pour.

Depending on how many coffee cups you need to make at once, the Moka Express comes in different sizes, from 1 to 12 cups, and is easy to use.

Overall, it is affordable, easy to clean, and can be used on any type of stovetop, including gas, electric, and induction. Keep in mind that you need to buy an induction adapter plate for the induction stovetop.

Also, do not wash your Moka Express in a dishwasher.

If you do, your pot will not shine anymore and the coffee taste will alter. The pot will be black instead and it will stay that way forever.

To keep it new, always wash your Moka Express by hand with clean water.

Despite some small drawbacks, we concluded that Bialetti is still the king of moka pots. If you want the best-tasting espresso, from a high-quality pot, Moka Express is our best choice.

GROSCHE Milano – Runner Up

Just like Bialetti Moka Express, this stovetop espresso maker is made of high-quality food-grade aluminium, which ensures that it lasts longer and heats up quickly.

The Milano pot comes in different sizes, from 3 to 9 cups, and is easy to use.

It is also compatible with all stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction. We discovered that if you use it on an induction stove, it will heat up, but very slowly because it doesn’t have a magnetic bottom.

Additionally, the Milano moka pot has a safety valve that regulates the pressure inside the pot and a stay-cool handle that makes it easy to grip and pour.

You will like the fact that it is also easy to clean and maintain (dishwasher safe). Its compact size makes it perfect for travel or small spaces. And we like the fact that you can choose from various designs as well.

Overall, the GROSCHE Milano is an excellent choice for coffee lovers who value quality, convenience, and sustainability. It’s solid, and a bit less expensive alternative to Bialetti.

Godmorn Espresso Maker – Best On-Budget

The Godmorn moka pot features a sleek and stylish design. This model is made of high-quality food-grade aluminium material, which is non-toxic, rust-resistant, and easy to clean.

The Godmorn pot comes in different sizes, from 6 to 12 cups, and is designed for easy use.

Just like Bialetti and Grosche, it has a patented safety valve that guarantees safe and effortless espresso brewing. This feature also ensures the prevention of accidents and burns.

Secondly, the Godmorn has a high-temperature-resistant handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when the pot is hot. This makes it easy to handle and pour coffee without the risk of burning your hands.

During our review process, we discovered that it is compatible with all stove types, including gas, electric, and ceramic hobs, making it a convenient brewing option for most households.

We wish there are smaller models (1 or 3 cups) on offer. But despite a few drawbacks, it is still a solid and budget-friendly option for large households.

Alessi 9090 – Best Upgrade

The Alessi 9090 moka pot is a timeless masterpiece that fuses traditional style and contemporary design, crafted in the 1980s by the renowned Italian architect and designer Richard Sapper.

One of the key features of the Alessi 9090 pot is its compatibility with all heat sources, including gas, electric, and induction stovetops.

The pot is made from top-quality stainless steel. This means that 9090 is a long-term investment that is guaranteed to last for years to come, allowing you to brew delicious coffee without having to worry about wear and tear.

Its valve system allows for customized brewing, enabling you to adjust the intensity and flavour of the coffee. With its ergonomic handle and spout, 9090 is designed to pour coffee smoothly and effortlessly.

The moka pot is also dishwasher safe, making it an easy-to-use and practical addition to your kitchen. Furthermore, the Alessi 9090 is available in a range of sizes, from 1 to 10 cups, which we love to see.

Overall, if you want to get your hands on one of the best stovetop espresso makers, and you don’t care about the price, this is it.

Bialetti Venus

The Bialetti Venus has been designed with quality materials, making it durable and reliable for everyday use. Being fans of the company, we had to include the Venus model on our list. And here is why.

One of the striking features of the Bialetti Venus moka pot is its premium stainless steel construction, which ensures a robust and long-lasting end product that is easy to clean and maintain.

This coffee maker is engineered to cater to those who love bigger cups of coffee, with the pot able to brew 10 cups of espresso at a time. The smallest option we could find makes 2 cups.

Just like the previous choices on our list here, the Bialetti Venus moka pot has a safety valve that controls the pressure and temperature, resulting in a delicious and full-bodied coffee.

Its handle is ergonomic and heat-resistant, making it easy and safe to lift and pour espresso. Also, it is dishwasher safe, which makes the cleaning process user-friendly and quick.

Furthermore, the pot is compatible with various cooktops, including electric, gas, and ceramic hobs. Keep in mind that larger models need induction plate adapters to work on induction stovetops, and 2 cup version will not work at all.

Alessi Pulcina

If you are a fan of design combined with modern moka pot technology, this model will pique your interest for sure. It has piqued ours indeed.

Alessi Pulcina features a spout that mixes the coffee and water in the right proportions to produce a creamy, aromatic espresso. The innovative technology prevents the coffee from emerging too quickly and prevents burnt or bitter-tasting coffee.

You can get it in 1, 3 and 6 cups of brewing capacity at the moment,

Among the top benefits of the Pulcina is its innovative design, perfect for pouring coffee without spilling. Its sleek and sophisticated design makes it a piece of art in its own right.

The distinctive handle provides a secure and ergonomic grip. Furthermore, the inductive heating system ensures uniform heat distribution and enhances the quality of the coffee produced.

Not only that we think Pulcina looks mesmerising, but it is also compatible with both gas and electric stovetops, making it versatile and convenient. Unfortunately, you can use it on an induction stovetop.

bonVIVO Intenca

One of the most remarkable things about the bonVIVO Intenca moka pot we discovered during our testing is its premium quality construction.

The pot is made of durable stainless steel that not only enhances its longevity but also ensures optimal heat retention and even distribution. Additionally, the pot comes with a thick and heat-resistant handle that provides a comfortable grip when handling it even when hot.

The bonVIVO Intenca also features innovative safety mechanisms, such as a silicone gasket and a safety valve, which work together to ensure that brewing is safe and secure.

During our research, we learned that the Intenca moka pot can brew up to 6 cups of coffee in just a few minutes. The smaller model brews about 3 cups of espresso at once.

Also, this model is compatible with all kinds of stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction cookers. This makes it an ideal brewing kit for home or office use, no matter the kind of stovetop you have.

And since it’s made from copper, the Intenca is dishwasher friendly.

Coffee Gator Moka Pot

One of the most outstanding features of the Coffee Gator pot is its construction, which is made of high-grade aluminium. This material provides excellent heat conductivity and retention.

We like that this moka pot comes with a heat-resistant handle that ensures a comfortable and secure grip. It is capable of brewing up to 6 cups at once.

And we can’t shake the feeling that it looks exactly like Bialetti Moka Express.

Coffee Gator features an easy-to-assemble three-part brewing system that makes it easy to use and clean. Furthermore, the pot comes with a precision pouring spout, which helps prevent spills.

Apart from its solid construction and timeless design, the Coffee Gator is suitable for use on all stovetops, including induction, gas, and electric, making it widely functional.

If you decide to opt in for this model, you will get two double-layer stainless steel coffee mugs too!

Zulay Classic

The Zulay Classic moka pot is crafted with premium quality materials, including a durable aluminium body, which adds to its longevity and enhances its performance.

With a unique Italian-style brewing design, the Zulay Classic allows you to brew robust and bold coffee, just like an authentic espresso.

This model is available in 3, 8 and 12-cup capacities.

Additionally, its easy-to-use design makes the brewing process a breeze, even for beginners. This attribute is further enhanced by the inclusion of a rubberized handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip.

The Zulay Classic moka pot is compatible with gas and electric burners. If you have an induction stovetop, you can use this model, unfortunately.

And make sure to don’t wash it in the dishwasher. Just like Bialetti Moka Express, Zulay Classic will turn black and alter the taste of your coffee.

With its affordable price point and high-quality construction, the Zulay Classic offers good value for money. It’s a great choice for campers.

How to Choose The Best Stovetop Espresso Maker For You

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to choose the perfect model for your needs.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we will explore the top considerations to keep in mind when selecting the ideal moka pot for you.

Aluminium or Stainless Steel Moka Pot?

• Aluminium: The most common material used in moka pot construction is aluminium and for good reason. Aluminium heats up quickly and evenly, making it ideal for brewing a rich, flavorful coffee. It’s found in premium models like Bialetti Moka Express.
• Stainless steel: If you’re looking for a pot that’s more durable and long-lasting, but not as expensive as aluminium, stainless steel is a great option. Not only is it resistant to rust and corrosion, but it’s also easier to clean and maintain. However, stainless steel doesn’t heat up as quickly or evenly as aluminium, so it may take a bit longer to brew your coffee.

Do You Need a 3, 6, 9 or 12-Cup Moka Pot?

If you enjoy a single cup of strong brew, going for a smaller pot size would be sufficient. However, if you regularly make coffee for more people or entertain guests, it would make sense to choose a larger pot.

It is worth noting that some models have an adjustable brew capacity. For instance, you can buy a six-cup pot but choose to brew two cups instead of six by altering the amount of coffee used.

Furthermore, choosing the right size of the moka pot can impact the final taste of your coffee.

Overfilling your pot can lead to a weak brew, whereas using an oversized pot for a single cup can cause the coffee to be too strong and bitter.

Do You Have a Gas, Electric or Induction Stovetop?

Moka pots are designed to work on different types of heat sources, including gas, electric, and induction stovetops. However, not all pots are compatible with all heat sources.

For instance, if you have an induction stove, you need a pot with a magnetic base to generate the necessary heat.

Gas stovetops are the most common heat source for moka pots, and as such, most pots are designed to work with gas hobs.

However, you need to ensure that the pot’s base is not too thin or flimsy as this can lead to uneven heat distribution and potential damage to the pot.

Electric stovetops are also a popular heat source for moka pots. Most of the best stovetop espresso makers are compatible with electric and gas heat sources.

What’s the Brand’s Reputation?

Some of the most well-respected brands include Bialetti, Cuisinox, and Alessi.

• Bialetti is perhaps the best-known of these, with a long history of producing quality moka pots in Italy. Our top choice is Moka Express
• Cuisinox is another brand to consider, particularly if you’re looking for a pot with a more modern aesthetic. They offer sleek and stylish designs that are often made from high-quality stainless steel.
• Finally, Alessi is a premium brand that is well-known for its focus on design and innovation. They offer a range of pots that are both stylish and functional and are made using only the highest-quality materials.

How Much Are You Willing To Spend?

Cheaper models are often made of thin and low-grade materials, which can result in a weaker and less consistent coffee flavour.

On the other hand, more expensive pots are usually made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or aluminium, which are sturdier and more durable.

In addition, higher-end moka pots often come with ergonomic handles and advanced filtering systems, which can enhance the overall coffee brewing experience.

We recommend finding the right balance between affordability and quality.

While cheaper options may seem tempting at first, they may not provide the best coffee experience in the long run.

On the other hand, the most expensive models may offer premium features that you may not necessarily need, and may not fit well within your budget.

Our #1 Recommendation

After long hours of comparing moka pots, the Bialetti Moka Express has proven to be our top pick for stovetop espresso makers.

With its classic design and great performance, this model could be part of your morning routine for many years if taken care of properly.

Not only is it aesthetically pleasing and perfectly functional, but also very economical when compared to other espresso makers.

All its features make this espresso maker a great value for money and a no-brainer choice when looking for quality coffee makers. So grab yours today and start your day off with a delicious cup of espresso!

By the way, if you want to take your espresso brewing experience a step further, we recommend taking a look at our list of best espresso machines for beginners here.

FAQ

What is a moka pot (stovetop espresso maker)?

A moka pot, also known as a stovetop espresso maker, is a small coffee pot that brews coffee using steam pressure. It consists of three parts:

• bottom chamber for water
• middle chamber for coffee grounds
• top chamber for brewed coffee

How does a moka pot work?

The device works by heating water in the bottom chamber, which creates steam.

The steam then passes through the coffee grounds in the middle chamber, extracting the flavour and aroma. The brewed coffee then rises into the top chamber, ready to be served.

What kind of coffee can I use in a moka pot?

You can use any type of coffee grounds, but it’s recommended to use finely ground coffee specifically made for Moka pots or espresso.

What size moka pot should I get?

Moka pots come in different sizes, usually measured by the number of cups they can make. It’s best to choose a size that matches your needs and the number of people you plan to serve.

Can I use a moka pot on an induction stove?

Yes, some models are compatible with induction stoves, but make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before using them on your induction stovetop.

How do I clean a moka pot?

To clean your pot, disassemble it and rinse each part with warm water. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any leftover coffee grounds.

Avoid using soap or detergent as it can leave a residue that affects the taste of your coffee.

Can I use a moka pot to make tea?

While a moka pot is designed for brewing coffee, you could use it to brew tea if you wanted.

However, it’s important to note that the taste and aroma of the tea may be affected by the residual coffee flavour in the pot.

How long does it take to brew coffee in a moka pot?

The brewing time varies depending on the size of the pot, the type of stove, and the heat setting. Typically, it takes 5-10 minutes to brew coffee in a moka pot.

Can I make cold brew coffee in a moka pot?

No, this device is designed to brew coffee using heat, which is not suitable for cold brew coffee.

To make cold-brew coffee, you’ll need to use a different brewing method, such as immersion or drip brewing.

Why does my moka pot make weak coffee?

If your pot is making weak coffee, it could be due to using too much water, not enough coffee grounds, or not packing the grounds tightly enough.

Adjust your settings and test a lot until you find the perfect recipe.

What kind of water should I use in my moka pot?

It’s recommended to use fresh, cold water. Avoid using distilled or soft water, as these types of water can affect the taste of your coffee.

How do I know when the coffee is ready in my moka pot?

As the water boils and turns into steam, it will make a hissing sound as it passes through the coffee grounds and into the top chamber. Once the hissing sound stops, the coffee is ready.

Can I use my moka pot to make espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes?

While these coffee makers can produce a concentrated coffee that is similar to espresso, it’s not technically true espresso.

However, you can still use it to make espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes by combining brewed coffee with steamed milk.